Shop the Trend: Instant Slimmers

Bold blocks of color deceive the eye by creating the illusion of a slimmer torso.

A.L.C. Dorset Colorblock Long Sleeve Blouse, $398; intermixonline.com

Go by Go Silk Penguin Shirt, $228; neimanmarcus.com

Neil Barrett Silk Color Block Shirt, $700; saks.com

Elizabeth and James Ivy Colorblock Shirt, $325; shopbop.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs Navy Silk Avery Peplum T-Shirt, $250; ssense.com

Jason Wu Leather and Lace Racerback Shell, $1, 585; nordstrom.com

ASOS Color Block Denim Shirt, $29.02, (on sale); asos.com

Ohne Titel Tri Color Block Blouse, $375; intermixonline.com

Tibi Basia Embroidery Shirt, $385; tibi.com

Vince Camuto Pleat Front Color Block Shell, $89; amazon.com

Contrary to what instinct says, hiding under extra fabric and voluminous shapes will only add weight. Go with a slim style that utilizes seaming and smart placement of color and pattern to harness curves for a sleeker, sexy look.

Mason by Michelle Mason Leather and Stretch Jersey Pencil Skirt, $565; net-a-porter.com

Kimberly Ovitz Pooka Pencil Skirt, $325; shopbop.com

Peter Pilotto H Printed Stretch-Crepe Skirt, $1,118; net-a-porter.com

Opening Ceremony Colorblocked Skirt, $84, (on sale); openingceremony.com

Diane von Furstenberg Mahali Crochet Pencil Skirt, $378.40; farfetch.com

Roland Mouret Betsey Pencil Skirt, $376.51, (on sale); farfetch.com

When stretched from shoulder to thigh, shade blocking helps elongate and slim out the entire body. Placed right at the waist, large blocks work magic to take inches off the waistline.

Club Monaco Demi Dress, $179.50; clubmonaco.com

Preen Sybilla Dress, $1, 375; shopbop.com

ASOS Pencil Dress in Color Block With Zip Detail, $96.75; asos.com

Tibi Color Block Dress, $246, (on sale); bloomingdales.com