1) Wear a higher rise pant/jean/skirt/short. I am talking about pants that are self-described as "mid-rise." They don't feel high, but they do feel different (mostly because you aren't constantly pulling on your belt loops trying to pull your pants up). I suggest pants that hit an inch or two below your belly button.
2) These "mid-rise" pants come in handy this season especially. One of the biggest trends this season is cropped EVERYTHING. From cropped tees to short/boxy jackets, it seems that everything is cropped. This isn't always the best look for everyone but it seems that this style is EVERYWHERE. By wearing pants/shorts/skirts that hit a bit higher, you can help assure that you aren't showing anything that you don't want showing when wearing a shorter top.
3) That being said, shorter tops are a great option for adding height. While I might not love everything about the "cropped trend" that has hit stores everywhere (some are too boxy, some are unflattering in material, and some are just plain ugly), a shorter top, one that hits around your hip bones, along with a mid-rise bottom does really give you the illusion of "legs for days." Our goal is to make your legs look as long as possible.
As I've said before, wherever there is the greatest change in color and texture is where attention will be drawn. SO, if you wear a shorter top that hits just above the top of your mid-rise bottoms, your legs will "start" right where your top ends.
Don't feel comfortable wearing a shorter top? Try wearing a longer top and then throw on a shorter jacket (again, one that hits around your hip bones).
4) When wearing cropped pants, try tucking in your top (leave the waistband exposed) and wear a heel - kitten heels are okay - but I always think "the higher, the better!"
5) Whatever shoes you do wear (flats or heels), make sure that your shoes don't cut of your leg line. I love a fun pair of shoes just as much as the next person - but shoes that have criss-crosses and horizontal ankle straps will cut your leg line off and wherever that strap is, that's where your "leg will end." The most flattering shoe is a classic pump that lets your leg extend all the way down to your toes.
6) When wearing shorts, skirts, dresses and cropped pants - try a nude pump (or a nude wedge)! Make sure to match the nude to your skin tone (don't choose a nude shade that's pinkish when you have an orange undertone). Wearing a nude heel or wedge will give the illusion that your leg just keeps going and going. I LOVE nude heels.
7) Choose a flared leg jean or pant. I always suggest wearing some sort of heel with a flared pant as flared pants are usually longer than bootcut or skinny jeans. Even if you get them hemmed, get them hemmed to a length that you can wear at least some sort of heel with them. The flare helps create a streamline silhouette which will make you look longer, taller, and thinner. Ladies of every height can wear a flare leg pant - just make sure to add some heigh on the bottom with a heel.
8) Obviously, heels will give you height. Still, it does depend on the situation and the person as to whether or not you feel comfortable wearing heels. Four inch stilettos are't really office appropriate but a nice 2" wedge or classic pump would look great. If you've never worn heels, start small. There are some great kitten heels that will still give you that extra oomph that you are looking for. Pointed-toe heels are best (as they are longer in length). With so many different brands available today, I believe that everyone can find a heel that fits and feels comfortable. Plus, there are so many different inserts, padding, and types of support that can be added to make a heel work for you. A good pair of heels is a great INVESTMENT PIECE.
9) Longer pants will give you longer legs (sounds obvious but once we put on a pair of pants, sometimes we are too quick to rush them to the tailor). When getting them hemmed, keep these two things in mind:
- With flats, let the back of the hem just barely graze the floor. Dragging on the floor is not attractive, but leave your pants long enough that the hem ALMOST hits the floor. The goal is to keep as much length as possible.
- With heels or any other shoe, you want to aim for the bottom of your hem to hit 1/2" above the ground. Any longer takes away from your best look. So many times I see women walking around in cute outfits, yet the look is almost ruined when I see a hem that is so high above the ground. Obviously you don't want to trip, but longer is better! Try it for yourself and see.
Unwilling to commit to a certain pant length? There are some options for you so that you can change the hem length depending on your outfit. There is a great product out there called "Hem Gems." You can find them at many stores or online at www.hemgems.com. These little studs can be stuck into the bottom of your jeans and tightened to keep your pants at a certain length. (Click on the link below to see a video on how they work).
Hem gems video: http://youtu.be/rOcSPMCUSAk
10) Wearing darker colors on bottom will also help give you the height and slimming effect. Wearing darker colors make your eyes contract, making you look slimmer and wearing lighter colors make your eyes expand, making you look wider.
All of these are just some helpful "tricks." I don't really believe in fashion rules, but I do swear by certain fashion "tricks." Apply them as often as you can for the best possible look!
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| Alexa Chung is a great example of how to add height with a great outfit. Her skirt his just above her knees (about an inch), her flats are pointed toe, the waistband of her skirt is higher and exposed and her top is tucked in. This look is perfection. |
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| On the runway, models show us how a higher-rise can make legs look miles long. |
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| Audrina Patridge is a great example of how to wear a flare-leg jean and of how they can contribute to a beautiful look. The length is great (about 1/2" above ground), the waist is higher and her top is tucked in. She looks tall and slim. |
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| This Christian Louboutin pump is a perfect example of a classic pump. With a pointed toe and an open top, this show will give you beautiful length. |
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| A pointy toe flat, such as the one above, is a great way to elongate your legs, even when wearing flats. I love the idea of pointed-toe flats in bright colors as they can be great accent colors to otherwise simple outfits. |
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| Jessica Alba looks great in flare leg jeans in a mid-rise, a tucked in top, and a cropped jacket. |
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| This photo is a great example of where you want the hem of your pants to hit with heels and flats. |
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| While the shoes don't add to her height (because of the horizontal straps), the high waist of the skirt and the cropped top make for a very slimming look (we can even overlook the shoe in this case!). |
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| These nude Tory Burch peep-toe wedges are an investment piece. While they are a little pricey, they are an item that can be worn with almost EVERYTHING you own. The height is great for multiple occasions, the color is extremely flattering and the classic style can't be beat. |
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| Dr. Scholl's makes great shoe inserts for all different issues. I love the "Ball of Foot" gel insert for shoes that are a liiiiittle but too big. The extra padding can make the shoe fit a bit more snug and the extra cushioning is great when wearing a heel that can put a little more pressure on the ball of your foot. |
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| This J Brand jean is the perfect example of a mid-rise jean. It hits between 1-2" below the belly button. I love this jean! |
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| Reese Witherspoon is a vision in this dress and beautiful nude heels. Look at how they add such gorgeous height to her shorter frame. |
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| Hem gems are a good option for those of you who can't commit to a certain hem length with your jeans. They allow you to shorten or let out your hem, depending on your shoe. My suggestion - don't choose a flashy style - stick with one that blends in with your jean, attracting the least amount of attention. I don't see them as an accessory, their purpose is better for function. (www.hemgem.com) |
Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting
www.kristingolden.com
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