Uh-oh… it’s that time of year again. The post holiday blues. The fun holiday and New Years festivities have come to an end and it seems all we are left with is a few extra pounds.  For many fashionistas this is disastrous- and many of the holiday outfits you purchased are feeling a little too tight.  But fear not- there are many secret tricks and tips that Grace has to keep you looking and feeling great until you get back into your usual shape. Oh and the best part? These are items you can even wear after you shed the those ell-bees.

TIP #1
Avoid thin materials that cling to your skin. Stick to structured and firm fabrics (think pencil skirt).

TIP #2
Take Advantage of the Trends
-There are lots of trends right now that are perfect for hiding any excess inches.  The return of the high wasted, wide legged trouser is a perfect (and comfortable) solution to belly bulge.  Oh ya, and those full skirts you keep seeing on celebrities? Pretty much ideal to hide holiday baggage.

TIP #3 Spanx
Don’t be ashamed- Spanx are the secret to nearly every girl’s closet- yes even skinny girls.  These little wonders work magic under any dress.  Find the type that best suits you- extra emphasis on the stomach or extra cinch in the thigh area? Oh, and they even have the kinds with the butt cut out so you can keep your Kim Kardashian ass-et if you’d like.

TIP #4
Another trend that will help draw attention away from any problem areas, is the bib necklace.  From the overly embellished to the simple silver chain, this necklace that sits just on the neck (aka away from the fat) is an ideal distraction and a trendy statement piece to add to any outfit.

TIP #5
Invest in a pair of “make me skinny” jeans.  If you don’t already have a pair for times like these (or that time of the month if you know what we mean) this is a must to have in your wardrobe.  You don’t just have to stick to sweats on days like these! Look chic and slim in black, flattering skinny jeans that work for your body type.  These can be found at any department store- simply ask a sales associate which shape or brand would best flatter your shape, and look for a label that involves “stretchy”.  My personal favorite is J-Brand, and trust me, it’s a bloated girl’s best friend.

TIP #6
Still feeling self conscious? Rock a brightly colored, or heavily decorated oversized handbag. No joke here- this is perhaps the greatest way to draw attention from your current shape and to your sense of style.  A cute (and maxi sized) handbag isn’t just a celebrity favorite- it’s also a secret style and shape booster that instantly makes anyone look more glamorous.

So there you have it! The six tips to help keep you looking slim after the holiday feasting has ceased.  But ladies please remember- confidence is the most important aspect of style anyone can possess. So just remember, keep your head held high (especially because pretty much everyone else is in the same post-holiday health rut you’re in!).

Xoxo Stay Stylish

GS