LOOK THINNER WITH THESE FASHION TIPS: It seems that no matter how happy we are with our bodies, we always want to look or appear slimmer. Instead of saying you're going to go to the gym, and never getting around to it, use these fashion tricks to help you look slimmer and sleeker. 1 – WEAR WIDE LEG PANTS: While at first it would seem that wide leg pants would make you look bigger than you are, in fact, the wide leg style in most cases creates a nice straight line, creating the illusion of longer legs. This, in turn, makes you look taller and is very forgiving. If you'd like something a little more interesting than traditional wide leg pants, look for cuffed leg, it's a little more chic and fun. Style Note: Try to avoid cuffed pants if you are under 5'5. Cuffed pants tend to make short legs look shorter. 2 – WEAR BOOTCUT/ SLIGHT FLARE JEANS: Jeans are an everyday item, and because they're worn so often, they should be the items that we put the most effort into buying. Bootcut jeans, and jeans with a slight flare, are going to be flattering on every body type. Again, we're going for long clean lines, and creating a soft silhouette, which really adds up to a pretty, slimming look. 3 – DON'T GET CAUGHT UP ON A SIZE: A huge and very common mistake when shopping is that we get too caught up on the number on the tag, and not the fit. Sizing runs different in all stores, so make sure you try on a variety of sizes to get the best fit. Wearing something that's too small for you can make you look a lot bigger than your actually are, so make sure you find the right fit. 4 – THE LONGER THE BETTER: One of my personal pet peeves when it comes to dressing is pants that are too short. There are certain lengths for capris and flood pants, but the worst thing for your figure is pants that are too short, and cut off the leg. You want to make sure that your pants are long enough to cover most of your shoe. The longer, the better. See the reoccurring theme here? Long lines create long legs which creates a slimmer look! 5 – POINTED TOE SHOES: Ahh, one of my secret weapons. Pointed toe shoes are going to be the final touch when you're dressing slim. Whether they're flats or heels, pointed toe shoes allow the length of the pant to flow into a point, which lets the line we've created end in a natural place. Rounded toe shoes tend to cut off the line, making legs look stumpy. 6 – WEAR DARK COLORS: This one is a given. Dressing in dark colors is very slimming. Instead of the traditional black, opt for something a little more unexpected, like charcoal or navy. If you'd like something other than a solid color item, look for a dark woven tweed, or subtle pinstripe. Style Note: Try not to dress in head-to-toe dark colors. If you're wearing dark pants, pair them with a fun bright top, or a top in contrasting color. Remember, we're dressing slim, not going to a funeral. 7 – DON'T BE CLINGY: When shopping for pants, try and look for pants made of heavier fabrics so they don't cling to your leg. There's nothing worse than fabrics clinging to your body, showcasing all of your flaws. Look for fabrics that are flowy and light, which tend to pull away from the body. 8 – FOCUS ON YOUR ASSETS: Every single one of us have wonderful assets that we want to play up. If you have gorgeous legs, go for a nice full knee length skirt. If you've got great arms, go for sleeveless tops. Got a great waist? Play it up with a blazer that cinches at the waist, or add a belt to pull it in. 9 – BACK POCKETS: This is also something else that is an afterthought for most of us. Pocket size on jeans can really make or break the jeans. Pockets can either make your bum look bigger or can really flatter it. When shopping, look for jeans that have decent size pockets, relative to size of the seat. Steer very clear of too tiny pockets that can make your bottom look huge. Instead look for fun cargo flap pockets or bigger pockets that are situated lower on the jeans to make your bottom look higher. Try on as many styles and washes as possible to ensure you get the best look. 10 – A-LINE ISN'T FOR ALL OF US: A-line dresses and skirts were always known as the best skirts out there, that flattered everyone. Well, that's not always true. A-line dresses can create a tent effect and give you a shapeless look and add pounds within minutes. Always try on a dress before buying, and find out if A-line works for you. Style Note: Empire waist tops and dresses can create the same effect, so watch out for babydoll style tops. Tricia's Treasures was given permission to reprint this article by Fashion Writer Crystal Coons. For more informaion regarding Crystal Coons and her articles please email me. Thank you.