When it comes to fashion, we all want to look our best, right? But sometimes we make mistakes that can make us look heavier than we are. If you've ever felt like something just isn't quite right with your outfit, you might be committing one of these ten fashion faux pas.

Don't worry, though! In this article, we'll show you how to spot these blunders and give you some tips on how to avoid them.

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#1. Wearing Clothes That Are Too Tight

Reason: Tight clothing can pinch and create lines or bulges, emphasizing areas that might not be noticeable with better-fitted clothing. This can distort the natural silhouette and make one appear larger or less proportionate.
Alternative/Exception: Body-con or fitted clothing is designed to be tight, emphasizing curves. When chosen and worn correctly, they can be flattering. The key is to ensure they're the right size and that the fabric has some stretch to accommodate natural curves without creating unnecessary lines.

Body-Con Dresses featured above: Nordstrom One Shoulder Brown Body-Con Dress, Nordstrom Sleeveless Turtleneck Body-Con Dress, Rumor Ruffled-Sleeve Body-Con Dress

#2. Wearing Clothes That Are Too Loose

Reason: Very loose clothing can hide the body's natural shape, adding visual bulk and making one's silhouette appear larger or shapeless.
Alternative/Exception: Bohemian, flowy styles or oversized fashion are intentionally loose. When styled correctly, with attention to proportion (like pairing an oversized top with fitted bottoms), they can look chic and intentional without adding perceived weight.

Bohemian clothes featured above: Johnnie Was Zuzu High Slit Linen Embroidered Pants, Johnnie Was Alder Floral Print Kimono, Johnnie Was Black Manning Pant

#3. Horizontal Stripes

Reason: Horizontal stripes, especially wider ones, can draw the eye side-to-side, creating the illusion of width. This can make the body or the part of the body where they're worn appear broader.
Alternative/Exception: Thin, delicate horizontal stripes or those on well-tailored clothing may not have the same widening effect. Additionally, mixing stripe direction (like a top with diagonal or vertical stripes combined with horizontal stripes) can offset the widening perception.

Striped tops featured above Court & Rowe Pink and White Striped Tee with Puff Sleeves, Free People Floral Stripe Button-Front Blouse

#4. Choosing the Wrong Undergarments

Reason: Poorly fitted undergarments can create visible lines, bulges, or distortions in the silhouette, making the outer clothing appear less smooth or well-fitted. For example, a bra that's too tight might cause spillage or back bulges, while the wrong underwear can create visible panty lines.
Alternative/Exception: Some fashion styles or cultures might intentionally showcase bra straps or lingerie as part of the outfit. When done intentionally and styled appropriately, it can be a fashion statement. The key is ensuring the visible undergarment complements the outfit and fits well.

#5. Shoes with Ankle Straps with Short Dresses or Skirts

Reason: Ankle straps can create a horizontal line across the foot, visually breaking up the continuity of the leg. This can make legs appear shorter, especially when wearing shorter hemlines.
Alternative/Exception: For those who love ankle straps and don't want to give them up, there are ways to make them work. Choosing straps in a nude or skin-matching tone can reduce the "cut-off" effect. Additionally, wearing them with high-waisted bottoms or longer dresses might not disrupt the leg line as much. Furthermore, for many, the aesthetic appeal of the shoe style might outweigh any potential leg-shortening effect, and that's perfectly okay!

Ankle Strap Shoes featured above Dolce Vita Ankle Wrap Wedge Sandals, Sam Edelman Ankle Wrap Sandal

#6. Dropping Waistlines

Reason: A dropping waistline sits lower than the natural waist, often around the hips. This can extend the look of the torso and shorten the appearance of the legs, making the wearer seem less proportionate. It can also draw attention to the midsection, a common area of concern for many.
Alternative/Exception: On some body types, especially those with a naturally longer leg line or those who want to emphasize their hips, a dropped waist can be a stylish and flattering choice. Flapper dresses from the 1920s, for instance, utilized this design to great effect.

Dropped Waist Dresses featured above Nordstrom Pocket Dropped Waist Dress (shown in blue and green), Nordstrom Short Sleeved Dropped Waist Dress (shown in pink)

#7. High Necklines

Reason: High necklines, especially on those with a fuller bust or shorter neck, can make the chest area look more voluminous and the neck shorter. It can also add visual weight to the upper half.
Alternative/Exception: High necklines, like turtlenecks or mock necks, can be very stylish and sophisticated. They can look especially elegant on those with longer necks or slender frames. For those with a fuller bust, choosing high necklines in softer, draping fabrics rather than stiff ones can help reduce added volume. Layering a longer necklace or adding a long scarf can also introduce a vertical element, offsetting the potential broadening effect.

#8. Large, Oversized Accessories

Reason: Big accessories can overshadow the outfit and add visual bulk, especially if they're placed at or draw attention to wider parts of the body.
Alternative/Exception: Statement accessories are a fashion favorite for many and can be used to create a focal point in the outfit. The key is balance. If you're wearing a large statement necklace, for example, consider pairing it with a simpler outfit. Similarly, a large handbag can be offset with a streamlined and monochromatic look.

#9. Boxy Jackets or Blazers

Reason: Jackets without a defined shape can add visual volume to the upper body and hide the natural waistline, leading to a less defined silhouette.
Alternative/Exception: Boxy or oversized outerwear is a deliberate style choice that sees to come in and out of fashion. This look can be chic when styled correctly. Pairing a boxy jacket with fitted pants or a pencil skirt can create a balanced, on-trend look. The oversized look is also a staple in streetwear, offering comfort along with style.

#10. Avoiding Vertical Lines

Reason: Vertical lines, whether they're actual seams or patterns, draw the eye up and down, which can elongate and slim the appearance of the body. Ignoring these can mean missing out on this visually lengthening effect.
Alternative/Exception: Not all outfits require vertical lines to be flattering. Smooth, monochromatic looks without any discernible lines can also be slimming. Plus, certain outfits with horizontal elements, like peplum tops or A-line dresses, can be very flattering despite lacking vertical emphasis.

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Final Thoughts Every body is unique, and the key to fashion is dressing in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable. By avoiding these common fashion mistakes, you can create a more flattering look that celebrates your individual shape. What fashion mistake have you caught yourself making? Share in the comments and remember, the best look is the one that makes you feel like your best self.