Pencil skirts are not just for petite girls with a slim waist and a flat tummy.
You shouldn’t let belly fat come in the way of you stepping out looking dope and stylish because you can find a flattering tube skirt that will snug your tummy and make you feel good as you should.
The trick is to find one that fits you correctly and also be creative with the fabric, textures, colors, design, layering, and pairing. Next time you are shopping for a fitted skirt, here are some tips on how to wear a pencil skirt if you have a belly.
Here is the Table of Contents
Tips on How to Wear a Pencil Skirt with a Tummy
1. Layer shapewear underneath
Using shapewear is the perfect way to tuck in and shape your tummy (see our review about the best shapewear for petites here www.sweetskinliners.com/body-shape/best-shapewear-for-petites/). When wearing a high waist pencil skirt, it might be challenging to zip up the upper waist if you have a belly pooch. Fortunately, high waist shapewear will keep everything in place so you do not have to deal with fat rolls on your upper tummy where the skirt ends.
Additionally, if your skirt’s hem reaches the knee level, mid-thigh shapewear will help to keep your bum, hips, and thighs shapely and smooth.
2. Wrap a scarf around your neck and let it cover your tummy
A scarf is one of my favorite fashion accessories and when it comes to concealing unwanted belly fat, it comes to your rescue.
The trick is to get a long one that goes all the way to your tummy. It will cover your upper tummy where the skirt snugs your body and it is a good way to add some style, color, or texture to your outfit.
3. Front tie top or blouse
A front tie top or blouse will hide your belly (read about tank tops that hide belly fat) and it does a good job of balancing out your entire look. If you want to draw attention away from your belly, make sure that your blouse, shirt, or top has some style or details.
A front tie is a good detail because the eyes are immediately drawn to the upper body. It is also a great way to create balance since the pencil skirt is snug and tight-fitting (see reviews of cute shirts that go with pencil skirts).
4. Gorgeous necklace or earring
If you have a belly and are feeling a little insecure about wearing a pencil skirt, the trick is to draw attention somewhere else.
A pencil skirt looks good in almost every body type but you can still attract attention to other parts of your body by using accessories. Accessories for your upper body and face are the best way to go about it.
5. A jacket or cardigan in cold weather
Do not be shy to wear your jacket or cardigan in cold weather. If you are feeling uncomfortable about your belly, the best time to wear your pencil skirt is during a chilly day. At this time you have the excuse to add your favorite jacket, blazer, or cardigan.
Jackets and cardigans are great because you can wear a long one that covers your belly. Even if you do not wear a long cover-up, it is still a great way to bring balance to your entire silhouette so people don’t focus on your tummy.
6. Pair the skirt with heels for an added height
A good pair of heels can transform a nightmare outfit any day, any time. If you are not sure about wearing your pencil or tube skirt, pairing it with some heels will do the magic. A midi pencil skirt might make your legs look short and the best way to elongate them is to match high heels with your skirt. It will make your outfit look sexy and you do not have to worry about your belly fat being the focal point.
7. Consider the type of pencil skirt:
i.) Pencil skirt with an elastic waistband
A pencil skirt with a thick elastic waistband is the best for hiding your tummy. The thick waistband acts like shapewear and keeps the stomach in its position. It is the best way to feel snug and comfortable even when you’re insecure about your midsection.
ii.) A pencil skirt with vertical stripes or darker colored side panels
There is something about wearing vertical stripes. They have a slimming and elongating effect so if you are worried about your tummy looking large, choosing a skirt with vertical stripes will do the trick.
On the other hand, you can opt for a skirt with darker-colored side panels. This pattern creates an hourglass illusion that will camouflage your tummy.
iii.) Avoid pencil skirts with details such as pockets, buckles, buttons, etc near the waist
Details such as pockets, buttons, or buckles around the waist make the outfit bulky. If you are trying to conceal your tummy, the best thing to do is to avoid anything that will add volume around the waist. Stay away from front pockets, large buckles, and even attractive buttons.
iv.) A pencil skirt with a wrapped front, a tie front at the waist, or peplum
A pencil skirt with a wrapped front does a good job concealing your belly. You can also get one with a peplum design so that the extra fabric can cover your tummy and waistline. Being creative in the design of the pencil skirt that you choose can transform your overall look.
v.) A pencil skirt with a flared or fishtail bottom
When wearing a pencil skirt, creating balance and drawing attention away from unwanted areas is paramount. If you want to create balance, opt for a pencil skirt that is flared at the bottom, it will balance out the belly and also draw attention away from your tummy.
vi.) A pencil skirt with a side slit
Wearing a skirt with a side slit is an excellent way to draw attention elsewhere. A side slit takes away attention from the belly to the legs. It’s an underestimated detail in your skirt that can transform how people view you.
vii.) A skirt with ruched detail
A skirt with ruched details around the tummy works best for hiding the pot belly. Ruched details are stylish and getting a pencil skirt with some ruched fabric will do the trick.
viii.) Darker colors are better at camouflage
We all know that dark colors are slimming. If you want to achieve a slim look try and opt for darker colors. They will do a good job of disguising your flaws. Bright colors tend to draw attention to the unwanted areas and might not be good for a pencil skirt if you want to hide belly fat.
Dos and Don’ts of Pencil Skirts
Dos
- Get the right fit if you want to smooth and accentuate your curves.
- Turn to take note of your side view. If you still have a pouch when viewed from your side and the skirt fits you right, consider putting on a tummy shaper underneath.
- Wear seamless mid-thigh shapewear, underwear, or thong to prevent unwanted visible panty lines under the tube skirt.
- For an office look, wear a neutral-colored skirt and pair it with a plain and simple top, shoes, and accessories.
- If you’re petite, tuck in your shirt or top to elongate your legs. If you’re tall with a relatively shorter torso, let your shirt hang out to elongate your upper body.
- If you’re short and you want to look taller, match the pencil skirt with heels.
Don’ts
- Don’t wear a skirt that is too tight because it’ll create bulges around your stomach, thighs, and butt.
- Don’t pair a brightly colored and/or patterned pencil skirt with an equally colored and patterned top. You should consider your desired focal point and overall silhouette.
- Red is too bold for a job interview, and it’s likely to bring you out as too assertive. Shimmery and neon colors are best kept for weekends and parties.
- If you’re tall and lean, high-waisted skirts won’t flatter your figure.
Wrapping Up
Anyone can be stylish in a pencil skirt, whether you’re short, tall, petite, slim, or you’ve lately put on some good weight.
If you have a belly pooch, you don’t have to reconsider a pencil skirt that you like because you can layer shapewear underneath, wrap a scarf around your neck, opt for a skirt with an hourglass pattern, and so on. Our guide will make you more creative when it comes to how to wear a pencil skirt if you have a belly.