Can You change Your Body Shape with Color?

The answer is: YES, you can! The right use of colors can definitely change the way your shape looks. Call it an “optical illusion”.

Colors can:

– correct, camouflage or disguise any figure challenges
– emphasize your best features

Here is how you can start creating your own optical illusion:

1. Use dark colors for the body parts you’d prefer to camouflage

Usually dark colors have a slimming effect. Depending on your personal “season”, use a variety of rich colors, from deep plum to dark olive and navy blue to chocolate brown or everyone’s favorite: black!

The dark skirt has a slimming effect.

2. For the body parts that you like to draw attention to, use light or bright colors

Light and bright colors will enhance your best features. When it comes to dresses, there are now several color block styles that feature different color bust, waist and skirt panels.

The purple skirt draws your attention to her slim legs.

3. Look for bold colors and patterns

Bold patterns and colors distract the eye and camouflage your outline, causing the observer to notice your clothing instead of your size. Choose patterns in bright AND deep colors, since patterns in bright and deep colors draw the attention to the color and pattern instead of emphasizing your imperfections.

Notice how the bold colors and pattern draws your attention.

4. Try monochromatic color schemes

Large blocks of solid color draw the eye up and down rather than side to side. As a result, the eye takes in more height than width, causing you to appear thinner and taller. Try wearing a dress in a solid color or a deep blue top with dark wash jeans.

This solid color dress makes you look taller (read thinner).

5. Accessorize with bold colors

Break out your bright colored necklaces and bold scarves that drape over your front. Go for jewelry and other accessories that create a vertical look, and avoid horizontal accessories like chokers that may make your neck or other features look thicker.

This brightly colored scarf creates a vertical look.

So, whatever figure challenge you may have (be grateful if you only have one!), camouflage the section(s) you’d rather not have people see, and attract attention with bright and light colors to the areas you’d love to show off. For the large busted ladies out there, you are in control! If you choose to be more visual about your physical attributes, wear a light or bright colored top. If you’d like to play it down, opt for a darker colored top.

Let colors work for you and your body shape, use the simple tricks I mentioned above and experiment with them. You will love it!