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Color blocking is a great way to create vertical lines in an outfit. Vertical blocking will make you look slimmer and taller, but horizontal lines come into play as well.  Sometimes, they can be negative, making you look shorter and broader, but in other cases, they can be a plus.  An example would be using a belt or color to define the waist!

Perhaps the easiest way to give yourself a slimmer look is to wear an open jacket, vest or cardigan over your dress or top. You will need some contrast in color or value (dark to light).

Another option is to wear a cardigan buttoned or belted in the middle to create a V at the top and a reverse V at the bottom. Jackets can create a V on top, and you can even combine a jacket and cardigan creating both a V and two vertical lines. Even a coat can create a V.

Scarves are another tool for color blocking. A short tie can break up the chest area, which is helpful if you have broad shoulders and/or a large bust. A longer scarf can slim the entire torso. Note how the two photos to the right create several vertical lines with the use of jackets, scarves, and cardigans.

Sometimes color blocking is built right into the garment.  This dress gives ready made vertical color blocking while the black sweater with the built in white ruffles creates a V.  As I mentioned above, all horizontal color blocking is not bad. Note that the dress has a vertical line between the skirt and blouse. Because the line sits high on the waist, it creates the image of longer legs. Go to your closet and have some fun trying color blocking. If you have any questions be sure to ask in our Fashion Questions Forum.

--written by AZ Judy