Dressing Tips for Men - How to Hide Belly Fat With The Right Trousers and Jeans

Hunting down a pair of jeans or trousers, that both fit well and look good is a difficulty most men face. Plus, if you struggle with belly fat, it can be even more of a challenge. Thankfully, our guide is here to share some valuable tips, catering to men of all ages.

Choosing the Right Fit:

Contrary to popular belief, tighter fabrics will not pull you in but rather highlight the areas you are trying to conceal. If you have a belly you want to hide, the last thing you want to do is stuff your stomach into a pair of tight-fitting jeans. Instead, embrace your size and choose jeans that actually fit (the key is to know your measurements).

Look for jeans or trousers that sit comfortably on your waist without clinging to your middle. This is a tip you can adopt with any style of jean or trousers, be it skinny, straight leg, or even flared. For reassurance that you've got the right fit, make sure the jean or trouser skims over your stomach and sits flat against your skin, there should be no bulging or lumps. Stand side on in front of a mirror and look for a seamless rounded or flat silhouette. If you're seeing a 'B' shape at your midsection, this is a sign you need to size-up.

Key takeaways:

Know your measurements and take them regularly
Size up if you're between sizes
Make sure the jean skims over your stomach rather than squeezes it

Go for Mid and High-Waisted Jeans:

As well as the fit, the rise of your jeans also plays an important role in shrinking your stomach. For guys with bigger bellies, high-rise and mid-rise jeans tend to be more flattering as they not only provide great coverage but support too. Mid-rise is a strategic choice that helps to conceal and define the lower stomach area. However, depending on the roundness of your stomach, you may want to opt for a higher rise instead. Generally, the rounder your shape, the higher the rise you want to go for. Otherwise, the jeans/trousers could cut you off in the middle giving you that dreaded 'B' shaped belly.

If you do opt for a high rise, however, make sure you're combining it with a well-fitting shirt that cuts off just below your belt.

Key takeaways:

High rise jeans are best for round tums
Mid rise jeans and trousers can be helpful to conceal lower belly fat, but make sure they don't pinch you in the middle
Look to create a streamlined silhouette rather than a 'B' shaped belly

Use Dark Colours to Your Advantage

When it comes to colours, the magic of darker hues cannot be overstated. Dark-coloured trousers, be it classic navy, deep charcoal, or rich black, create a slimming effect, making them an ideal choice for concealing any perceived flaws around the midsection.

Key takeaway:

Choose dark colours for a slimming effect

Avoid Bulk and Pattern

Avoid bold patterns that draw attention to the midsection. Instead, opt for trousers with clean and subtle designs. A straightforward, classic look maintains a polished aesthetic without inadvertently highlighting any areas you'd prefer to conceal. Remember, the larger the pattern, the larger you'll look, so opt for smaller, more detailed designs. It's also important to be mindful of things like pockets, buttons, and waistbands to ensure they don't add extra bulk around your belly or draw the eye to your midsection.

Key takeaways:

Choose small designs to look smaller, avoid big bold patterns
Stay away from jeans and trousers with bulky waistbands

Choose the Right Fabrics

Stretch denim is a great jean fabric that is both comfortable and adaptable to your body shape. Sometimes, jeans may need to be 'worn-in' to give you the most comfortable fit, so if you find your new pair is a little on the stiff side, try wearing them in for a couple of days until the fabric adapts to your shape. However, remember not to confuse fabric stiffness with poor fit. Even stiff jeans should also allow you to move comfortably as you would in a pair of joggers, for example; if you feel like the seams are going to split, you're not wearing the right size.

As for trousers, look for fabrics that are both thick and soft like good quality cotton, linen or jersey.

If a fabric is too thin, it will cling to your skin and highlight every lump and bump.

Key takeaways:

Thicker fabrics won't make you look bigger - choose good quality natural weaves like cotton and linen
Go for soft and stretchy to look slimmer
Stay away from clingy thin materials

When it comes to shopping for jeans, don't let the desire to hide away your insecurities get in the way of your sense of style. Feel free to explore and experiment in your jean and trouser choices and accept that you will make mistakes along the way to finding your perfect pair. Dressing well is all about choosing clothes that are comfortable, flattering and give you the confidence to face the day, and that's something every man deserves!