Slimming secrets for guys and girls

I get it. It’s cold, it’s wet and desserts are yummy. Putting on a little extra padding during winter doesn’t have to mean looking bigger or feeling drab, an innovation in underwear has changed everything. If you have the right equipment, your whole wardrobe will look and fit better. And it’s not just girls that are applying this technique to hide the dreaded flabby bellies, a bigger butt or muffin tops (I hate that expression), now guys can get in on the action too.

Enter Spanx. This soon became a major buzz word for celebs as everyone from Oprah to Blake Lively started claiming these under garments were miracle workers. Shaping and slimming unwanted bumps and elimating the dreaded VPL, Spanx basically improves your silouette under clothes. Taking the technology of seamless, tapering underwear a step further, 2XIST created a range for guys. A friend of mine, who shall remain nameless (at his request) wears 2XIST contour briefs. I quizzed him on the appeal and he said after quitting the gym he started feeling a bit self conscious about his wobbly belly. He saw the 2XIST gear and thought he would give them a try “They just keep me feeling good. My gut disappears and I can tuck in my shirt without looking like my Dad”. Do your mates ever give you a hard time? “Nope. If someone happens to see them, I just say they help with a lower back injury.” And between you and me, he does look very good.

Here are the best ways to instantly firm up without the workout…

2XIST

Ahhh man’s little miracle worker. 2XIST has been making fashionable underwear since 1991 and is all about function and looking good. Their latest collection includes these bad boys which create a slender waistline with the 6 inch elastic band. This also provides support for the back and improves posture. They are on SALE at incityfashion.com.au. Along with other great 2IXST tank tops and trunks. What’s not to love?

Spanx

Spanx has truly got all areas covered. They have invented undergarments for women that fit perfectly under almost any outfit imaginable and have also created a swimwear range that keep you looking trim and toned. No more dreading bikini season!

Flattering skirts

For a long time we have been told A-Line skirts are the most slimming but there are some other great styles to try. Sometimes you want to look toned but still show off your booty. A high-waisted, figure hugging skirt can look amazing on curvy girls and a leather or suede skirt can do the right things too.

Horizontal stripes

Anyone who ever purchased something with vertical stripes because it supposedly made you look slimmer, burn it immediately. They were WRONG! There has been extensive research to indicate that horizontal stripes are much more flattering. Go for larger stripes and pass this message on. Information is power, people.

Colours

You don’t have to be an expert with colour, but a few simple tricks will keep you looking svelte this winter. Rule of thumb: dark is better. If you are short don’t wear all black, or you will look like a gothic munchkin. Go for dark on the bottom with a lighter T-shirt and a feature cardigan to blend it all together. And for guys – dark denim with a tailored, striped shirt is a winning look.

Labels on my radar: Spanx, 2XIST, Metalicus, Witchery, Supre, Saba, Cue, Bardot, Mavi, Witchery Man, G-Star, Mossimo, Farage, Bassike, Frost Design, Gorman, Kate Sylvester.