In comments on my post why do you wear black, of course the idea that black is slimming came up. But is it really the best/only slimming option? My theory is that sometimes a softer dark shade or a subtle print might be better, due to black creating a stark silhouette against a lighter background. Worn in a dark setting, the effect might be different.
Here are some pictures:
Now, I confess, when I turned my attention to swimsuits, which I admit I dislike in black, the results were clear: black really did make the body parts it covered look slimmer. The difference was so obvious between black and brights that I didn’t even bother bringing any pictures to show you.
Here’s black vs. brown and print vs solid:
To help me adapt to the uncomfortable truth that old ladies really do have a good reason for wearing old lady swimsuits (oooh, that was nasty!), I am posting this really darling plus-size model looking elegant in a Miraclesuit® Skirted One Piece.
Oh wait! It’s polka dot! How cute is that?
Ooo I think I wear black for a much more embarassing reason… it’s so that when I sweat (I know, gross huh!?) it doesn’t show up as badly as on a shirt with colour on it. 🙁 I’ve tried everything to stop the sweating but I guess my pores are too big. Which is apparently a good thing.
That, and I grew up wearing black, but I keep seeing that dark chocolate brown might be a much nicer colour against my skintone…. Black is just so easy to put on though. 🙂
I’ve tried on both coloured and black swimwear and was appalled by the was I looked in the coloured ones (ewww). I went with black and I think they look fine.
Icy, I am confident in your good taste. 🙂
I want those jeans.
Black (and other dark colors) definitely slims areas that are covered with it. However, the problem with some outfits, particularly some bathing suits, is that whatever is not covered does not benefit from the slimming and may actually look larger in comparison. Therefore, when it comes to black, I say black pants over black shorts and black skirted bathing suits instead of black bikini bottoms. Dressing monochromatically in general can be slimming, though, so don’t count out light colors.
First of all. I love, love, love, love, LOVE black!! But. I know it is not necessarily always the most flattering thing. I also love chocolate brown. I, too, have been appalled at the difference between colorful swimwear and black. I always try to deviate from the safety of my black suit, but I have tried the same suit on in a color and been horrified at how awful I look in color. So black swimsuits it is. Lands End faille with the skirt are the ONLY way to go, imo.
But as for the pants you posted. I think the white definitely adds a few pounds, although it’s a great look if you choose your white pants wisely (i.e. good fit and not too see-through).
Black definitely makes my “fulla-milk” girls look smaller. Praise be to God.
and did I mention that I want those (top right) *$200* jeans?
Okay, Meg pointed out what I think my problem would be with black swimsuits: about the only part of me that needs slimming is nearly pure white and immediately below the swimsuit!
The other problem with black suits, and I don’t know if anyone else has noticed this, is that the styles are usually made for Susannahs. I really need a junior suit.
That said, to be completely honest, I have never tried on a black suit, although the best one I ever had was chocolate brown. And, for me, I don’t plan on starting now, but you all have my approval. he hee. for what it’s worth. 😉
About the pants: bonnie, those jeans would be great on you, but it can’t be long before Old Navy and Target come up with more affordable versions.
The funny thing is, I thought the top right ones were black and the other dark pair were dark indigo. Then when I posted this I thought they were both black. Turns out, when I tested the links, they are both blue! OH well.
I was surprised at how slimming the white pants were. The reason? I think the diagonal pocket cuts the hip width. Diagonal lines are typically slimming.
In those photographs, I really think the black is the most slimming (however what is not slim about the model? heh). I really think that the black makes her look smaller in comparison to the white.
I agree with the swimsuit conversation. I have only ever owned one black suit, and it covered my problem areas perfectly! If it wasn’t this particular style, there is no way I could wear it, because the problem areas would scream “LOOK AT ME!”. However because it covers what I need it to, it’s perfect! Unfortunately I’m so white that I call myself transparent and black doesn’t exactly match my skin (unless we’re going for the polar opposite effect).
Great topic!
I’m probably queen of the black swimsuits. But, especially in suits containing lycra, darker is often better as they begin to age.
I would have liked to see a “normal sized” model in the jeans. This girl’s a TWIG! What’s to slim-a-size about her?
I think a black bathing suit is tops!
Jody
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