Here's the Skinny on Looking 10 Pounds Thinner

Thin is in. It seems like it has been in for quite some time now. I often look back at periods in history where large women were considered attractive and dream of that coming back into style in my lifetime. It hasn't happened yet and I'm pretty sure it's not going to happen anytime soon. That leaves me to look for ways to dress to flatter my figure and look as thin as possible.

It's really not all that hard. Sure, some of us are very short and round. That can be quite an obstacle but it does not have to be the end all when shopping for a stunning little outfit. One thing I've learned is that any style can be copied and made to fit personal shapes through the use of a good seamstress. If you have not acquainted yourself with a good local seamstress, make a point to do that immediately.

The biggest mistake that most over weight women make when shopping, is to buy clothing that does not fit their bodies properly. It's bad enough to have bellies and bulges. When you drape big loose clothing over a full figure, you only add to the bulk and make yourself look even bigger.

The next time you go out to buy an outfit or even one piece of clothing, try these simple tips to flatter your figure and help you to look up to ten pounds lighter.

1. Buy the size that fits you best.
Do not go into shopping with a size in mind. Many times we believe we're a size ten and only pick up that size. Try on at least two or three of the same items in different sizes and choose the one that fits you best.

2. Ignore length and focus instead on waistlines and bust lines.
Length is the easiest thing to fix on any clothing item. If it fits you properly in every other way, length should never be a worry or issue.

3. Avoid horizontal lines.
It really does not matter one bit how tall or short you are. It does not matter where your curves are. Horizontal lines are so unflattering that they should be totally avoided. Vertical lines are great as long as you remember to keep the lines lean as to avoid a block look.

4. Keep colors in tune.
What I mean by this is, try to flow in colors from top to bottom. If your colors blend well, you'll look longer and leaner.

5. Wear appropriate undergarments.
This is key in keeping your figure as pleasing as possible. Avoid ugly bumps and bulges by wearing undergarments that fit you well.

6. Wear heels.
Sure, flat shoes are far more comfortable. They also do nothing to help your figure. By simply wearing heels, you'll add length and leanness to your look.

7. Wear your hair high or wear a hat.
Again, this is a simple way to add some length to your over all look. The taller you look, the leaner you'll look.

8. Wear appropriate length in skirts and shorts.
Nothing will chop up your look worse than wearing a very short skirt or pair of shorts. While very short chubby people should avoid super long shorts, they should also avoid super short shorts. Find a complimentary middle ground in length to flatter your more rounded figure.

9. Add some bling to bring the focus up high.
One common mistake shapely women make is to wear flashy belts or flashy shoes. All this does is bring the focus down to either item. A far more flattering approach is to wear a bright necklace or earrings to bring the focus up to your beautiful face.

10. Wear flattering fabrics.
While shapely women tend to focus on fit, fabric can be just as important. Choosing fabrics that are soft and flowing will always be more flattering than choosing fabrics that wrinkle or cling. When material floats over your body gently, it creates the illusion that there's room to move under it. Tight or clinging material will only make you look stuffed into the garment.

Shopping for shapely figures is always a challenge. Luckily, many companies are starting to recognize the demand there is for full figured clothing and are now starting to respond to that demand. It's still a challenge. The greatest tool by far that a shapely woman can have to fix clothing issues is a good seamstress. Take the time to find someone in your area that can alter garments for you at a reasonable price. A good fit will always make quite a difference. Follow these simple tips and you are sure to look at least ten pounds thinner in your next new outfit.