In my Style Profile sessions with clients, we look at what’s called body variations. These are those areas of our physicality that we might struggle with or find a little frustrating — such as a larger or smaller bust, a shorter waist, or a narrow, sloping shoulder line. One such body variation is the “muffin top” or curved tummy that many of my clients mention, & would love to hide, minimise, or simply make more flattering. This particular variation is quite common in the ‘8’ shape body, where the fullness sits just under a very defined waist — however, other silhouettes can experience this too, especially as we move through menopause.
Here are a few tips on how to dress for this body variation if you feel you’re struggling with it…
• Ensure your clothing skims neatly over the tummy/muffin top area — not too tight, & not too loose or baggy
• Avoid low-quality tops in thin, clingy fabrics
• Tops with soft, flowy draping work wonders and will minimise this area significantly
• End tops & jackets just below the widest point of this area
• Layering drapey shirts/tops in chiffon fabrication under a looser, structured blazer can hide a multitude
• High-waisted pants are fabulous for offering coverage and support
• A mid-to-high rise trouser with a wide, flat elastic waistband works beautifully, as there’s minimal bulk and detail
• Wearing good quality shapewear can minimise and create a beautifully smooth difference
• Consider long, fitted, thick camisoles as an alternative to shapewear
• Peplum-style tops & jackets can work wonders
And here are my two top dressing & styling suggestions…
Prints and patterns are an absolute must-have for this body variation — they bring colour, personality & a lovely sense of ease to your outfits. They’re also perfect for layering under a blazer. As I often say, wearing darker tones underneath lighter layers creates a more receding & slimming effect. Opt for smaller prints with a darker background (negative space) for the most flattering result. That way, when the blazer comes off, you’re still wearing something that works beautifully to disguise the area.
And don’t forget dresses — they’re such a wonderful option. Because they create one long vertical line, they naturally skim over the body and “bypass” the muffin top with ease. They also remove that horizontal break at the waist, which helps draw attention away from the area altogether.
There are so many gorgeous options to choose from A-line, empire line, trapeze, fit-and-flare, maxi, circle styles, as well as front or side rouching, all of which can work wonders.
