Let’s face it: we all have days when we want our clothes to work a little harder for us—whether it’s smoothing over areas we feel self-conscious about, creating a flattering silhouette, or simply boosting our confidence. The colors you wear can make a big difference in how you feel and how you present yourself. But what colors should you reach for to achieve the effect you want?
As a designer and founder of Undersummers, I’ve helped countless women choose garments that highlight their best features while making them feel comfortable and confident. Today, I’m diving into the questions: What color shirt hides belly fat? What color is the most flattering? And what colors make you look thinner?
What Color Shirt Hides Belly Fat?
When it comes to concealing areas like the belly, darker colors are your best friend. Shades like black, navy, deep gray, and dark burgundy are excellent for creating a slimming effect. Here’s why:
- Dark Colors Minimize Attention: Darker hues absorb light rather than reflecting it, which helps de-emphasize the area and create a more streamlined look.
- Uniformity Is Key: A solid, dark-colored shirt without busy patterns keeps the focus on your overall silhouette rather than specific areas.
While darker colors are effective, they’re not the only option. If you prefer lighter tones, you can pair them with clever styling, like layering a darker cardigan or blazer over your shirt to draw the eye inward and create a flattering shape.
What Color Is Most Flattering?
The most flattering color depends on your skin tone, hair color, and personal style, but certain shades tend to work well for a wide range of people. Here are some universally flattering options:
- Jewel Tones: Rich, vibrant hues like emerald green, royal blue, and ruby red complement most skin tones and create a polished, put-together look.
- Soft Neutrals: Shades like blush pink, beige, and taupe can add a sophisticated, understated vibe while softening your overall appearance.
- Classic White: A crisp white shirt is timeless and pairs well with almost anything. It’s clean, bright, and universally chic.
When choosing a flattering color, consider how it complements your natural features. Warm-toned skin often shines in earthy colors like olive, mustard, and terracotta, while cool-toned skin tends to pop in blues, purples, and silvers.
What Color Shirt Makes You Look Thinner?
If your goal is to create a slimmer appearance, the right color can make a big difference. Here are a few tips for choosing colors that visually streamline your look:
- Black Is a Classic Slimming Shade: Black is known for its slimming properties because it creates a smooth, continuous line. It’s especially effective in fitted or tailored pieces.
- Monochromatic Looks Work Wonders: Wearing a shirt in the same or similar color as your pants or skirt elongates your silhouette, making you look taller and slimmer.
- Dark Colors in the Right Places: If you’re wearing a shirt with a pattern, choose one with a dark background or strategically placed darker elements to draw attention away from areas you’d like to minimize.
That said, looking thinner isn’t about hiding—it’s about creating balance. Opt for colors and cuts that make you feel confident, and remember that posture and fit matter just as much as color.
Styling Tips for Flattering Looks
Color is important, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional styling tips to ensure you look and feel amazing in any outfit:
- Layer Strategically: A structured jacket or cardigan in a complementary color can create a slimming effect by adding definition to your shape.
- Choose the Right Neckline: V-necks and scoop necks elongate your torso, drawing the eye upward and giving the appearance of a slimmer waistline.
- Pay Attention to Fit: A shirt that’s too tight can highlight areas you’d rather not emphasize, while one that’s too loose can make you look shapeless. Aim for a fit that skims your body without clinging.
- Patterns Can Be Your Ally: Vertical stripes, small prints, or color-blocking can direct attention and create the illusion of length.
What Colors Should You Avoid?
While everyone is unique, certain colors can be less forgiving when it comes to creating a flattering silhouette. Here are a few to use with caution:
- Bright White: While classic white is a favorite, overly bright whites can reflect light and make areas appear larger.
- Neon Shades: Neon colors tend to draw attention to themselves, which might not be ideal if you’re trying to downplay certain areas.
- Horizontal Stripes: Broad horizontal stripes can widen the appearance of your torso. If you love stripes, opt for thinner or vertical ones instead.
Undersummers: Designed to Make You Feel Good
At Undersummers, we believe that the best color is the one that makes you feel confident. Whether you love the slimming power of black, the vibrancy of jewel tones, or the elegance of soft neutrals, we design our garments with your comfort and style in mind.
Our anti-chafe shorts, for example, come in a variety of colors to match your wardrobe and mood. Pair them with your favorite flowy tops or fitted tees, and you’ll feel ready to take on the day. Plus, our inclusive sizing ensures that every woman can find the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts
The question of what color shirt hides belly fat or makes you look thinner often comes down to personal preference and how you style it. While dark colors and jewel tones are reliable choices for a slimming effect, the most important thing is how the color makes you feel. Confidence is always the most flattering thing you can wear.
At the end of the day, fashion is about self-expression. Experiment with colors, play with styling, and find the shades that make you feel unstoppable. Whether you’re rocking a classic black top, a bold jewel tone, or a soft neutral, wear it with pride—and let your inner beauty shine.
With love,
CarrieRae
Designer and Founder, Undersummers
