Thick arms?
“It’s too hot for long sleeves, but my arms look bulky in short sleeves. I need a fix that won’t have me sweating!” THE PROBLEM: Short sleeves that hit midway between the shoulder and the elbow offer some coverage for arm jiggles, but they also direct the eye to the widest part of the arms, making them look thicker than they actually are.
THE FLATTERING FIX: Go sleeveless! “It may sound counterintuitive, but putting arms on display from top to bottom draws the eye up and down, lengthening the look so arms appear longer and leaner,” explains celebrity stylist Samantha Brown. “Plus, a dress with a deep-V neckline and a graphic pattern causes the eye to travel toward the center of the chest and away from arms, so they appear smaller. Especially flattering: opting for a wrap-style dress. The waist tie makes a whittled middle the focal point, detracting from any bulk around the arms, while the slight flare of an A-line silhouette helps mask trouble spots such as a bigger belly and thicker thighs. Pairing the dress with color-coordinating strappy sandals helps highlight gorgeous gams.
GET THE LOOK: Lace & Mesh Ensemble Advisor Striped Wrap Dress, $89, ModCloth.com;
Bluma Project Ikat Hoops, $75, BlumaProject.com; Atelier
Mon Ajoure Pearl Ring, $87, AtelierMon.com; Naturalizer Kinsley heels in Hot Sauce
Suede, $89, Naturalizer.com
CONFIDENCE-BOOSTING BONUS
SMOOTH CHICKEN SKIN with an exfoliating lotion. The lactic acid sloughs off dead skin and unclogs the keratin that causes the rough bumps to form on the arms, and its ceramides lock in hydration for silky-soft skin. Tip: Apply directly after showering, when pores are most receptive to nutrients. Try: AmLactin Rapid Relief Restoring Lotion ($18 for 7.9 oz., RiteAid.com)