Most women gain belly fat during menopause and well into post-menopause. Our hourglass figures give way to a heavier middle section and, sometimes, excessive belly fat. This is caused by the reduction of female hormones and the redistribution of body fat, notably in the abdominal area. Lifestyle, eating habits, and genetics may also play a factor.
It’s great if you love your body unconditionally and don’t really care about your belly fat. But, if you don’t particularly enjoy the look of your belly fat, there are simple ways to hide or camouflage it.
- Avoid Tight Tops
- Layer your clothes
- A-Line Tops, Wrap Tops, Crossover Tops, Ruching
- High-waisted Bottoms
- Belt High
- Shapewear
- Tummy Control Pants
- Tunics Over Leggings
- Stand Tall
Often, dieting and exercise won’t even help get rid of the belly fat. It’s simply a part of our over-50 reality, and we need to learn to accept it and live with it. That doesn’t mean that you can’t use a few tricks to wisely try to hide it. Let’s take a look at a few simple ways that you can adapt to your daily habits that will hide that belly fat.
Styling Tips and Tricks to Help Hide Belly Fat
Avoid Tight Tops
This is the main thing to remember – avoid wearing skin-tight tops if you wish to hide your belly fat. Tight and clingy tops will only accentuate your rounded mid-section.
Layers
Layered clothing items are your new best friends! Cardigans, wraps, ponchos, blazers, kimonos, and jackets are all great options to camouflage your belly.
A-Line Tops, Wrap Tops, Crossover Tops, Ruched Details
It’s all in the details! The design of your top and the styling details can play a big role in how the top fits you.
A-line tops are your best bet. They are super comfortable and don’t hug your midsection. Wrap and crossover tops and dresses are very flattering and draw attention away from the belly.
Look for details such as vertical stitches or ruching which creates texture and an optical illusion.
High-Waisted Bottoms
High-waisted pants are back in style, and we are here for it! Choose pants and skirts that have a waist about or over your belly button. They will help tuck your belly in.
Belt Above Your Waist
Don’t shy away from belts because you have belly fat. Wear this accessory higher than where you typically wear it to emphasize the smaller part of your midsection: right below your bust at your ribcage.
Shapewear
Shapewear has become very popular with women of all ages. Brands like Spanx and Skims for example have booming businesses and offer an array of control underwear.
Tummy Control Pants
Like shapewear, tummy control pants can help tuck in belly fat. Jeans, pants, and even leggings offer tummy-control front panels that will help you breathe better. No need to suck it in, the pants do it for you!
Tunics Over Leggings
I love this timeless look. It’s a look that is modern and versatile and that you can wear in all seasons. Be careful not to wear an oversized tunic or a blouse that is too long because this can make you look larger than you really are. A-line tunics and button-down long shirts look great over leggings.
Stand Tall
Last but not least, be aware of your posture. Posture plays a huge role in how we project ourselves to the world. Holding yourself upright with your shoulders back will not only help tuck in some belly fat but will also give you a boost of confidence.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Do you have belly fat that you wish you didn’t have? What do you do to hide it? Do you have more style tricks to share with our community? Tell us about it in the comments below.