Thick in the Middle? Here’s Some Tips on How NOT to Look Preggers

Dear Budget Fashionista,
I simply love this website! I’ve checked it for years now! Help. I am a petite butt (size 12 to 14) and routine at the top (size big or 12). I have a pooch and always take excess fat. I think I look pregnant, when I try on the styles that are more flowy and tight at the ribcage below. Much like tunics. Summer is here and I hate to coating (I reside in Texas) too much in the summer. What types of shirts should I be looking for?

Response : If you remember one thing from my answer, remember this: the more skin you show, the thinner you seem.

Why? To where the skin is at Since the eye travels. So sporting a tank top (unless you’ve got flabby arms like me) or some low-cut top will actually draw the eye towards your arms and sexy bustline, instead of your midsection.

Bias Stripe Cutout Top

You also want to search for cotton shirts with a collar or a v-neck using a little bit of stretch (two-to-three-percent Lycra content) at a solid colour or a pattern that is in scale with your body. (Contrary to popular belief, patterns could be flattering–just be sure they’re not too small or too big; i.e., if you’ve got bigger features, go for a bigger print, and in case you’ve got smaller features, go for a smaller print.)

If you have got a Small tummy, make sure to Prevent the following:

— Tops with drawstring waist
— Empire-waist shirts (the waist is right under the breasts )
— Tunic-style tops with belts (alone, a tunic top is nice )
— Crop tops

Present Affair Ruched Cap Sleeve Top

Another great way to”reduce” your middle is to dress monochromatically–black and black, blue and blue, pink and pink. This could help divert from the waist. You might also want to try ruching (the scrunching of the fabric of a shirt to create several folds, like the above picture ), which can camouflage your centre section.

Last but not least, you can also put on a pair of tummy-control panties or a pair of Spanx–maybe not the best option during a hot summer, but a choice nonetheless. And…make sure you’re wearing the correct size in tops. A too-small shirt will highlight any”issues” you may have.