Apple or pear, take your pick!
Most women seem to fall into one or other of these body shape categories. I’m sure I don’t have to explain it to you, but just in case – pears are bigger in the bottom, narrower up top (and often have lovely waists). Apples (like me!) are bigger round the middle, as they tend to carry any excess weight on their tummy.
Here are my top 10 tips for disguising your belly and highlighting the rest of your gorgeous self!
1 – At this time of year, you’ll need a swimsuit. One piece swimsuits are NOT our friends. Tankinis rule!
2 – Black is slimming. I don’t know why; it just is.
3 – Full, A-line and long tiered skirts make us look dumpy. Step away from the sale rack. A straight skirt is a better option.
4 – Draw attention away from your problem area with a statement necklace. No, not a really long pendant that lands on your belly. Something that hits around your boobs or above. Or if you have shapely legs, find a skirt length that suits you and WORK IT BABY! For me, that’s on the knee. No shorter; no longer. I’m so glad pencil skirts are back in vogue!
5 – Don’t waist (ha ha) waste your money on belts. You do NOT want to draw attention to your tummy area. Ever.
6 – Empire line dresses and tops can be flattering, but exercise caution. There’s a risk that if they are not cut properly, they will just make you look pregnant. And nobody likes to be asked when they are due – especially if baby was born sixteen years ago …
7 – Forget clingy fabrics. You want outfits that skim and highlight your body, not reveal all your secrets.
8 – Stand up straight! Good posture does wonders for your figure, especially a problem tummy area. I’m not so good at practising what I preach, but I will keep trying! The benefits are worth it.
9 – Ruching can help disguise your problem belly. It’s not your tummy – it’s the fabric! Right?!
10 – Finally, remember that being an apple means that you have a higher risk of heart disease. So do keep an eye on your weight and your waist measurement, for your health’s sake.
Do you have any other tips for the apples among us?
Any advice for watermelons?
Ummmmm – go to the doctor??!
Great tips!! I completely agree. Also, have fun!! Clothes don’t have to be serious. Have a wonderful Christmas. Rachel xx
Rachel, you’re so right – have fun! And as Nikki @ Styling You always says, don’t buy it unless you LOVE it! I’m sure it’s saved me lots of money and fashion mistakes this year.
Great tips Janet, thanks for sharing.
My pleasure Rhianna – if only I’d realised years earlier – would have saved myself some serious fashion DON’TS and saved lots of money!
Great, fun tips!
My (ahem) personalities are probably my best asset so I like to wear statement necklaces.
Love that second photo of you 🙂
Nawww thanks Grace. As you can probably tell I’m a bit of a ham!
I think I’m a pear! But these are great tips Janet! Best wishes for the New Year and all the best to you, your family and your new blog!
Hi Rita, pears are more common than apples so it wouldn’t surprise me at all. Unfortunately being an “apple” is hereditary in my family!
Thanks for these tips from another ‘apple’! I’ve certainly never worn a bikini ever, so at least I got that right lol
I stumbled across a photo taken just after my 40th – and the last time I wore a bikini coz hubster bought it for me. I was actually really rocking it!!!! Don’t know that I’d wear one now though …