Today’s challenge has to do with appearances. The person who came to me with it, struggles to look bigger/heavier. In tackling this challenge, I could also tackle the struggle to look smaller/thinner. All one would have to do is the opposite.

Challenge 2: Looking Bigger or Smaller

If for some reason you want to look bigger or smaller, here are some tips…

Looking Bigger/Heavier

• wear thicker, heavier, more structured fabrics that sit away from your body

• if the fabrics you are wearing are thinner and less structured, ensure that the cuts are looser

• when choosing skirts, choose those that are gathered at the waist or pleated

• layer your clothing to create bulk

• wear lighter colours as they make areas appear larger

• opt for clothing with horizontal patterns and detailing

Looking Smaller/Thinner

• wear thinner, lighter, less structured fabrics that sit close to your body

• if the fabrics you are wearing are thicker and more structured, ensure that the cuts are form fitting

• when choosing skirts, choose those that skim the body, avoiding gathers or pleats

• avoid too many bulky layers

• wear darker colours as they make areas appear smaller

• opt for clothing with vertical patterns and detailing

As you can probably see, when you want to look bigger or heavier, you want to hide your shape and add bulk. Yet when you want to look smaller or thinner, you want to show off your body and decrease any bulk. (Keep in mind that body slimming or form fitting clothing does not equate to skin tight. Depending on your body shape, that might make you look heavier.)