If you've winced at the sight of your pancita bulging over the top of your jeans and creating the dreaded "muffin top" effect, don't panic. Before you buy a year's worth of Spanx, take a deep breath and remember that every woman has some body part or facial feature that she's self-conscious about (even if it's part of what makes her stunning and unique). If, for you, that area is the midsection, then the key to feeling confident in your clothes lies in figuring out how to shop for garments that disguise this section of the body. And here's the best news: with temperatures dropping, it's the perfect time to experiment with some on-trend fall fashions that create a flattering optical illusion, streamlining your silhouette and concealing your belly. Here are 10 great pieces that will make you look lean and fabulous this fall:
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- LOFT Petite Pocketed Waterfall Cardigan ($50) from LOFT.com
In addition to keeping you cozy and warm on brisk days, this open-front sweater will slim your silhouette since the draped details downplay the midsection while adding a free-spirited energy to any ensemble.
- Zara Blazer with Gathered Shoulders (79.90) from Zara.com
Blazers are an excellent tool for streamlining an outfit, giving the upper area of the body more structure and definition. The key is steering away from boxy numbers and instead favoring body-skimming pieces. Blazers with strong shoulder details are particularly helpful in camouflaging the midriff area since they draw the eye upward and create a tapered, V-shaped silhouette.
- River Island Dark Red Sleeveless Wrap Blouse ($52) from US.RiverIsland.com
Wrap-front blouses are universally flattering since they draw the eye upward, toward the décolletage, and the pleated folds of fabric tend to disguise any problem areas. That said, it's key to avoid overly clingy fabrics and instead opt for looser, more ethereal materials that will billow ever so lightly.
- Boden Olivia Skirt ($118) from BodenUSA.com
A-line skirts make the waist appear smaller and balance out the upper half of the body. This skirt's funky plaid print is right on trend for the season and the banded waist will also add structure to your midsection.
- Ivy & Blu Ruched Matte Jersey Dress ($118) from Nordstrom.com
When you want to slip into a flirty dress, try a frock with a V-shaped neckline and an empire waist, so that the bodice is fitted just below the bust and the skirt skims the body, grazing lightly against the skin. This charming Ivy & Blu dress comes in a deep purple shade that's perfect for the autumn months.
- Baublebar Tortoise Planetary Collar ($48) from Baublebar.com
A statement necklace will work wonders in terms of jazzing up an ensemble while simultaneously drawing the eye upward, thereby taking the attention away from the midsection. This Baublebar necklace will work with almost any outfit thanks to its classic tortoise shell motifs and glamorous crystal accents.
- H&M Trenchcoat ($69.95) from HM.com
A belted trench coat is not only timeless and chic, but it accentuates the smaller part of your waist and then flares outward.
- Michael Michael Kors Peacoat Cape ($295) at NeimanMarcus.com
Capes are, by definition, loose-fitting and flared, making them ideal for camouflaging belly fat. They also happen to be one of the season's most talked-about outerwear styles!
- 7 For All Mankind Mid Rise Original Bootcut in Los Angeles Wash ($165) at 7ForAllMankind.com
When selecting jeans, avoid low-rise styles that can create a muffin top effect and high rise cuts that can accentuate lower belly fat. Instead, opt for a mid-rise cut, which will provide the perfect balance.
- BCBGMAXAZRIA Adele Print Jersey Wrap Dress ($198) from BCBG.com
Every woman should own at least one wrap dress since it's a style that flatters absolutely every figure. Chicas with pancitas will be amazed by how the asymmetrical lines of the wrap front and the subtle ruching details draw attention away from the midriff while emphasizing the bustline. The tie-front closure, meanwhile, allows women to emphasize their waistline. This artful piece from BCBGMAXAZRIA features a frenetic brushstroke print that's modern and bold, as well as long sleeves for greater coverage in the colder months ahead.
Image via Corbis
