Fashion FAQ: How can I make my waist look more defined?
If you want a more defined-looking waistline, try one of the following style hacks that will help create the illusion of a smaller waist. This is coming from someone who has a thicker waist (I’m more of a rectangular shape) and I can tell you that these little hacks do work! In the spirit of body positivity and dressing for the body you have, here’s how to create a waistline using items you may already have hanging in your closet.
How to Define Your Waist Instantly
Add a Belt
Play around with thin and thick belts, as well as belted tops and bottoms. Adding a belt to a dress or longer top can help cinch your waist, creating a slimmer waistline.
Wear a Wrap Dress
A wrap dress cinches the waist and adds volume to the top and bottom of the body, making the waist appear smaller.
Throw on a Contoured Blazer or Coat
A contoured blazer or coat slims your waist by adding structure to your shoulders and hips, while also cinching the waist. It also makes a great third piece to complete your look.
Opt for a High-Rise Pant
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A higher rise pants gives the illusion of a smaller waist because it sits at the middle (& often smallest part) of your body.
Front Tuck Your Top or Try Creating a Wrap Effect
Video still from YouTube
By adding a front tuck or wrap effect with a button-down, you cinch the waist and make the upper and lower parts of the body appear larger than the waistline. To learn how to do the wrap effect above, visit this great YouTube video by Gemary Ermus.
Opt for Peplum-cut Tops
A peplum cut top adds volume to the bottom half of your waist, which creates the illusion of a smaller waistline.
Try Ruched Tops or Dresses
A ruched dress or tops help to narrow and slim the waistline. This is particular helpful for rectangular body types.
Highlight the Top Half of your Body with off-the-shoulder Tops and one-shoulder Looks
By drawing the eye up to the shoulder and neckline, attention is taken off the waist.
Try Looser Trousers
Try balloon trousers that have volume at the hips. Anytime your hips appear a little wider, it will minimize the waist.
A-line Skirts and Dresses
A line dresses cinch at the waist with the skirt portion sitting just above hips creating a narrowing of the waist line.
Try Wearing a Dress with Cutouts at the Waist
Cut out tops and dresses give the illusion of a smaller waist and gives the appearance of curves.
Are you looking for more specific ways to dress your body in a flattering way? Check out how working with a personal stylist can be a great investment for your wardrobe.