This contrast can create the illusion of slimness. Melanie Mills, who serves as the head makeup artist for Dancing with the Stars, told Marie Claire that “a customized salon spray tan will give you best results.” Professionals may be able to create contours, which can help make you look slimmer.

But if you don’t want to shell out for a professional spray tan at the salon, you can give it a go yourself with over-the-counter self-tanning products. Don’t tell the cast of “Jersey Shore,” but artificial tanners have come a long way from turning your skin “oompa-loompa” orange - an application of an artificial tanner properly matched to your skin tone can be very convincing.[relatedarticles}

Composure

The way you carry yourself says a lot about you - slouching, slumping, and sagging not only express a lack of confidence and vitality, but they also mush your midsection together, which could make you look heavier.

Think of a soldier at attention: neck straight, chest out, stomach in. You’ll not only look thinner and taller, but when you practice proper posture, you may actually start to feel more confident!