How to Look Taller and Thinner Instantly

How is it that celebrities manage to look tall and thin, even through the holidays? (Don’t they indulge in high-calorie goodies like the rest of us?) According to a stylist friend of mine, the quickest way to look thinner is to look taller, which explains the plunging necklines and thigh-high slits that often appear on the red carpet — these details are designed to lengthen the body. Here’s some additional advice from my friend for instantly looking taller (and thinner):

Stand up straight. Good posture adds inches, while slouching will make you look shorter, heavier, and tired. Don’t just stand; stand up tall, with your shoulders down and slightly back. You can even look taller when you’re sitting by keeping your butt and back pressed against the back of the chair. Good posture also helps prevent back, neck, and shoulder strain.

Avoid big handbags. Especially avoid bulky shoulder bags and fanny packs — these will make you look wider in the waist and hip area. This is why stars carry small clutches on the red carpet — so purses won’t detract from the lines of their gowns.

Go for fit, not trends. Make sure your clothes fit well and look good on you, regardless of trends. Loose, baggy tunics; bulky, oversized sweaters; and puffy ski jackets look cute on the hanger and on size 0 models, but they’re not always as flattering on the rest of us. Instead, pick pieces that have more shape, are nipped in at the waist, or skim your body.

Wear the right shoe. Go for a heel for height. If you’re not a fan of stilettos, try a platform, wedge, or kitten heel paired with tights, dark pants, or leggings for an unbroken line. Try to avoid any gaps of skin between clothes and shoes.