Want to rock a tiny bikini but you have a little body image voice holding you back? Eh, so what if you have a round backside and wide hips? There are women who would die to have those curves — just think about how many spend a fortune on butt implants! There are whole websites that’ll counsel you on how to make your butt look bigger, after all. So be proud of your shape, and don’t be afraid to show it off.
Having said that, you may feel some uncertainty about how to dress your big hips and thighs. I don’t advocate covering up your body, but every woman deserves to wear pieces that support her most confident self. And the trick to that is finding garments that emphasize your best features (which naturally de-emphasizes the parts you don’t like so much).
Need inspiration? Read on for some simple fashion tips on how to dress big hips and thighs.
How to Dress Big Hips and Thighs
Do Get Rid of Fluff on the Bottom Half
Back-pocket detailing, oversized accents, ruffles, and layers create bulk. And bulk actually hides your curves. A tutu skirt, for instance, tends to make the waist, butt and legs look stocky, like a tree trunk. A pencil skirt, on the other hand, highlights your small waist and round bum.
As far as pants and shorts pockets go, keep it simple and streamlined. Avoid oversized flaps and other details, especially if they’re located on the hips or buttocks.
Play with Your Top Half
The garments you choose for your top half can make your butt look bigger or smaller by comparison. Ladies with wide hips look fabulous in dresses and tops that cinch in at the waist. A belted, wrap-style top does this beautifully. Or, try tucking a blouse in to a pair of high-waisted bottoms.
If you have narrow shoulders and big thighs, the pieces that flatter will add volume to your chest and shoulders, while streamlining your waist. Think shoulder pads, ruffled necklines, off-the-shoulder necklines, and deep V-necks.
Sport the Right Jacket
Layering with the right jacket can make a world of difference. Avoid cuts that are baggy or oversized in any way. Instead, reach for a classic trench coat, hip-length jacket, or tailored suit. You’ll love the look of anything that’s pinned or belted at the waist. Same for cropped jackets and A-line silhouettes.
And if your favorite winter jacket isn’t working for you, don’t throw it away! Instead, add on a wide belt and keep it in your rotation.
Wear Pencil Skirts
A classic pencil skirt is an easy fix of sophistication — with a dash of sexy — for the curvy girl.
Remember the gorgeous Hollywood icons who rocked the ’60s and ’70s? Faye Dunaway, Raquel Welch, Ursula Andress, Claudia Cardinale, Sophia Loren, and Marilyn Monroe are some favorites. These stunners showed off their slim waist and wide hips by wearing pencil skirts and body-hugging dresses.
You can combine that pencil skirt with a silk blouse, basic t-shirt, tailored suit or embellished blouse. Or, on days when you want all the heads to turn, wear a tight jacket and crop top.
Say Yes to Dresses
Don’t be afraid to wear form-fitting dresses! Opt for A-lines, princess cuts, belted styles, dramatic sleeves, deep necklines, open backs, and below-the-knee hemlines. You can also try wrap-style dresses, halter dresses and bodycon.
- Wrap-style dresses create a smooth, flowing figure and make you look taller. Plus, you’ll feel like a model while you’re wearing one!
- The halter dress was a go-to for Marilyn Monroe. This style will emphasize your bust and hips while visually shrinking your waistline.
- Channel your inner Kardashian with some bodycon! Wear these form-fitters for a night out with the girls, and know that you can rock that style like a diva.
And the Shoes
For the dressier occasions, heels with narrow straps are an elegant choice. If you prefer the stability of wedges, choose a pair that’s more sleek than chunky.
On casual days, wear ankle boots or sneakers with your favorite jeans. Or try knee-high boots that aren’t too wide at the knee — these are flattering on nearly every figure.
How do you feel? Ready to dress those amazing hips and thighs with confidence? Let us know your favorite style trick in the comments!