The way you dress is your first introduction to every person you meet, and it’s just as important to first impressions as the way you speak and carry yourself. With this in mind, it can be daunting to utilize fashion as the tool it truly is–how do you get the most out of this valuable resource? The answer will vary, and is unique to your goals and needs.
One way you can use fashion to elevate your daily life is through clever styling hacks. When you look your best, you feel your best and are prepared to conquer each day. If your goal is to add height to your look, these 3 tricks help to lengthen the lines of the body without adding a heel or lift.
1. Wear fitted clothes in monochromatic shades
Despite their comfortable nature, baggy clothes actually make you appear shorter. The bunching of fabric at the waist and ankles that often accompanies oversized pants and bulky sweaters breaks up the lines of the body, and are reminiscent of a kid playing dress up. Avoid this by sticking to fitted silhouettes, like a skinny trouser or jean, and a snug button-up and well tailored suit jacket. Keep the outfit in monochromatic dark shades to further elongate the body– this works by creating a clean line from the head to toe, avoiding breaks at the waist.
2. Avoid belts, cropped jackets, and vests
The main goal is to keep the eyeline clean from neck to ankle, avoiding abrupt pauses. Belts add a horizontal line in the center of the eyeline, effectively working like a horizontal striped shirt, making you appear wider rather than taller. The same goes for cropped jackets and vests, the harsh line at the waist disrupts the eye and can call attention to a shorter torso to leg ratio.
3. Learn how to accessorize appropriately
The choices you make when it comes to accessories are important if your goal is to add height. Choose a shoe with a narrow shape and a pointed toe to elongate the leg, and avoid bulky footwear like chunky sneakers. Also, try adding accessories to the top half of your outfit–like a hat or glasses–to keep the eyeline centered on your face.
4. Be confident!
Nothing introduces you better than an air of confidence that precedes you. Focus on good posture and a friendly smile and you’ll make the right impression every time.
