Thick thighs?
“Being petite, I struggle to find clothes that don’t swallow me whole, but fitted items accentuate my thighs, making me look even shorter.” THE PROBLEM: Straight-leg capris tend to make even the tallest of ladies’ legs seem shorter. And when you carry your weight in the upper thighs, capris end up hugging the area, drawing attention to the problem spot and making a petite figure appear more squat.
THE FLATTERING FIX: A floral shift dress skims over hips without clinging to thighs, cleverly disguising any thickness around the legs. Choose one with a large cascading print, which creates a linear look that helps the body appear taller, recommends Del Russo. “Topping off the look with a fitted denim jacket and cuffing the sleeves draws the eye in to whittle the waist and carve out curves.” Tip: If you avoid dresses in the summertime for fear of chub rub, throw on a pair of lacy thigh bands like Bandelettes ($17, Bandelettes.com). The fabric covers skin to prevent thighs from rubbing together.
GET THE LOOK: Charming Charlie Pink Ombré Cha-Cha Tassel earrings, $14, CharmingCharlie.com; L.L.Bean 1912 Jean Jacket in Stonewashed, $74, LLBean.com; T.J.Maxx dress, $25, TJMaxx.tjx.com for similar styles; Chinese Laundry Savana Cork Block Heel Leather Ankle Sandal in Nutmeg, $80 with 20% off code FIRST20 at checkout, ChineseLaundry.com
CONFIDENCE-BOOSTING BONUS
HEAL THIGH CHAFING with a balm containing jojoba oil and zinc oxide. The oil’s fatty acids lock in moisture to prevent the harsh friction caused by thigh rubbing, and the zinc oxide works to soothe an existing rash. Try: Skinfix Rash Repair Balm ($18 for 2 oz., shop-US.SkinfixInc.com)