Whether you're blessed with a 20-inch waist, consider yourself gym-faithful or just simply refuse to give up all of your refined sugar, the dreaded muffin top afflicts us all in different ways. We abhor the word, but it's pointless to dance around that inevitable midsection fold. Yet, there are plenty of ways to dress it up. Take the fashion-focused approach—all of which are warm-weather approved—to smooth out your muffin top without having to plan for more Pilates.
Underwear
One of the most common mistakes made is your choice of undergarment. Underwear that's snug at the lower waist will pinch and squeeze out that muffin top. Solution? Higher-waisted boy shorts or lacey panties can eliminate that tummy bulge because they are situated closer to the smallest part of your waist. Don't worry about feeling like you've put on your granny's panties, there are a variety of cute undergarment options that can help avert a pouch without sacrificing sexiness. Plus, there's always shapewear—or spanks—that is probably the most effective way to smooth out your midsection. Wear the correct shape and size under any of the following style tips, and your muffin top will virtually disappear.
The Low Rise Demise
To be frank, low rise is not very forgiving. For years, low-slung jeans made popular by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Miley Cyrus were an essential part of a tasteful wardrobe. Now, it's time to face reality; pay attention to where your pants hit you. A lower rise jean will constrict you, squeezing out that troublesome zone even more, like toothpaste from a tube. Invest in mid- or high-rise jeans, which offer a smoother, more unified look. Unless your ensemble selection includes a crop top—which I seriously hope not—no one will see the top of your jeans. Look for a thicker, more-than-an-inch waistband with buttons instead of a half-inch zipper. Brands like H&M and Hudson make fashionable skinny high-rises.
Fabric
Here's another slimming trick. Clothing with some structure—some density, but not too much stiffness—will actually fall freely against your waist. Often, something too thin and silky will cling and exaggerate any midsection bulging. For instance, a structured jacket like denim or pleather will easily slim out your waist area. Also, adding a blazer or long cardigan will give you that long, slender look. Or, in the these warmer months, go for a long, sleeveless vest that's lightweight yet still thick enough to give you that concealed look without sweating.
Lighter is Wider; Darker is Smarter
It's just the way our eyes function, but we can use different colors to highlight our outfits—and our bodies—in sensual, striking ways. Wherever you wear a lighter color, eyes are not only going to be drawn to that area, but they will also be able to see more of the shape and form of that area. So, here's what you do. Wear a long, dark top (black always works) and light, bight colors toward your arms, bust and neckline. A perfect example is the classic white jacket with a stretched, black tank top. The key is to keep the darkest colors at your waistline, and the lightest colors toward your best features—like your sexy neckline and gorgeous face!
Texture & Pattern
We talked about the importance of wearing fabric with the right density, but just as crucial to a lean look are the characteristics of that fabric, like texture and pattern. This spring and summer, fashionistas are showing us that prints are as popular as ever, which is fantastic for your muffin top. A patterned top works wonders at camouflaging that waistline pouch—as long as it hangs off of the body. This is where you need to be strategic with the cut and texture of your top. A peplum blouse is trendy and will frill off of your waist in a flattering way. Plus, it's a versatile style and will have people thinking, “She looks stunning and sophisticated.” There's also the empire cut with not just a flared out waist area, but often a V-neck and long sleeves that distract from any potential protruding. And finally, when it comes to dresses, you can't go wrong with ruching. Find ruffles that flow from up top all the way down for a flush, continuous and dazzling appearance.
Belts are Your Best Friend
It might sound counterintuitive to add a belt to the muffin top quandary, but if executed right, it works. A thick, loose belt can be strategically placed to conceal any excess midriff. Tuck in just the front of your top in high-rise jeans and a bulky belt can be threaded through to create structure, while the fluid, untucked portion of the top flows away from the body to counteract any cling. More simply, go for an elongated top and place a fun, wide belt over it that slings just a little to give that slim-waisted illusion.
The Easy A-Line
Sporting a high-waisted skirt like the A-line skirt is always a chic way to disguise the muffin top. This style will accentuate the narrowest part of your waist while smoothing out your hips in a slimming, complimentary way. Plus, they're fun to wear! An A-line will give you that curvy, hourglass figure without revealing any leftover lumps.
Keep these tips in mind next time your shopping, and you'll never have to worry about your muffin top again.
