How to Make Jeggings Look Flattering on Your Hips: Styling Secrets

A common piece of clothing for many women is a pair of jeggings. While jeggings are comfortable, they don’t always flatter the hips. However, with the right styling techniques, you can make jeggings look amazing on your hips. Here is a definitive, in-depth guide on how to make jeggings look flattering on your hips.

The Foundation: Choosing the Right Jeggings for Your Body

Before you even think about styling, the most crucial step is selecting the perfect pair of jeggings. Not all jeggings are created equal, and the right pair can make all the difference.

• Rise is Everything: The rise of your jeggings is the single most important factor.
  • High-Rise Jeggings: These are your best friend. A high-rise waistband sits at or above your natural waist, creating a defined line and smoothing out the area from your belly button to your hips. This rise prevents the dreaded “muffin top” and creates a long, lean line.
    • Example: For someone with wider hips, a high-rise, dark-wash jegging works wonders. The dark color slims, and the high waist holds everything in, creating a streamlined silhouette.
  • Mid-Rise Jeggings: These are a solid, versatile option. They sit just below the navel and can be flattering if you have a balanced torso-to-leg ratio. However, be cautious if you carry weight in your midsection, as they can sometimes create a slight bulge.

  • Low-Rise Jeggings: Avoid these if your goal is to flatter your hips. Low-rise styles can cut across the widest part of your hips, emphasizing their width and potentially creating a less-than-flattering line.

• Fabric and Stretch: Pay close attention to the fabric composition. Look for jeggings with a significant amount of spandex or Lycra (at least 5% is a good starting point).

  • Example: A pair with 95% cotton and 5% spandex will offer a good balance of structure and stretch. The cotton provides a denim-like feel, while the spandex allows the fabric to conform to your curves without stretching out and becoming baggy throughout the day.
• Wash and Color: The color of your jeggings has a massive impact on how your hips appear.
  • Dark Washes: Black, dark indigo, and charcoal gray are your allies. Dark colors have a natural slimming effect.

  • Avoid Light Washes: Light blue, white, and pastels can draw attention to the hip and thigh area, making it appear wider.

  • Strategic Fading: Look for jeggings with a slight fading down the center of the thigh. This creates an optical illusion that makes your legs appear longer and leaner. Avoid jeggings with heavy whiskering or fading directly on the hips, as this will highlight the area.

• Pocket Placement: This is a subtle but powerful detail.

  • High and Small Pockets: Pockets that are placed higher up on the backside and are smaller in size can make your butt look more lifted and can create a more balanced look.

  • Avoid Low, Large, or Pocketless Jeggings: Pockets that sit low or are very large can make your backside appear longer and wider. Jeggings without pockets can sometimes create a completely flat, unflattering look.

Mastering Proportions: The Art of the Upper Body

The secret to making jeggings look flattering on your hips often lies in what you wear above the waist. By creating balance and drawing the eye upward, you can minimize the appearance of your hips.

• The Power of the Longline Top: A longline top, such as a tunic, a long cardigan, or a flowy blouse that falls past your hips, is a game-changer.
  • Example: Pair dark-wash jeggings with a flowing, A-line tunic in a vibrant color. The tunic skims over the hips, providing coverage and creating a soft, elegant line, while the bright color draws the eye upward to your face and torso.
• Structured Jackets and Blazers: A well-fitted jacket or blazer can create a strong, clean line that gives the illusion of a more streamlined silhouette.
  • Example: Wear your jeggings with a slightly oversized blazer that hits just below the hip. The blazer’s structured shoulders broaden your upper body, balancing out wider hips. Cinch the blazer with a thin belt at your natural waist for added definition.
• Strategic Layering: Layering can add visual interest and create a more flattering shape.
  • Example: Start with a simple, solid-colored t-shirt. Add a long, open cardigan or a duster vest over it. This vertical line created by the open cardigan draws the eye up and down, lengthening your body and creating a slimming effect.
• Defining the Waist: Even if you’re wearing a longer top, you can still define your waist.
  • Example: A thin belt worn over a loose-fitting tunic or dress can create an hourglass shape. The belt cinches the narrowest part of your torso, making your hips appear more proportionate to your waist.

The Details That Define: Footwear and Accessories

The right footwear and accessories can complete your look and play a significant role in creating a flattering silhouette.

• Footwear for Elongation: The right shoes can make your legs look longer and leaner, which in turn can make your hips look more proportional.
  • Heels are Your Best Friend: Any heel, whether a block heel, a stiletto, or a wedge, will instantly lengthen your legs.

  • Nude Pumps: A nude pump that matches your skin tone creates an uninterrupted line from your leg to your foot, making your legs look miles long.

  • Pointed-Toe Flats or Boots: A pointed toe creates a vertical line, extending the leg. A flat or boot with a rounded toe can sometimes truncate the leg line.

• Avoid Ankle Straps: Ankle straps can visually cut off your leg at the ankle, making your legs look shorter and thicker, which can exaggerate the width of your hips.

• Draw the Eye Up: Use accessories to your advantage by drawing attention to your upper body.

  • Statement Necklaces: A bold, chunky necklace or a layered pendant can be a great focal point.

  • Scarves: A brightly colored scarf or a long, flowing scarf can create a vertical line and add visual interest near your face.

  • Eye-Catching Earrings: A pair of large hoops or elegant drop earrings can draw attention to your face and away from your hips.

• The Right Bag: The size and placement of your handbag matter.

  • Crossbody Bags: A crossbody bag that sits at your waist or hip can sometimes draw a horizontal line across the widest part of your hips.

  • Shoulder Bags or Totes: A shoulder bag that sits higher up on your torso or a structured tote you carry in your hand can be a more flattering choice.

Putting It All Together: Flawless Looks for Every Occasion

Let’s combine these principles into concrete, actionable outfits for different settings.

• The Casual Daytime Look:
  • Jeggings: Dark indigo, high-rise jeggings with a smooth, even wash.

  • Top: A simple white V-neck t-shirt.

  • Layering: A long, open-front, gray knit cardigan that falls below the hips.

  • Footwear: White pointed-toe sneakers or a pair of nude block-heeled ankle boots.

  • Accessories: A simple gold pendant necklace and a large structured tote bag.

  • Why it works: The high-rise jeggings smooth the hips, while the long cardigan creates a vertical line that slims and elongates the body. The V-neck and simple accessories draw the eye upward.

• The Polished Office Look:

  • Jeggings: Black, high-rise jeggings with no fading or distressing.

  • Top: A silk or satin blouse in a jewel tone (emerald, sapphire) that can be tucked in or worn out.

  • Jacket: A structured black or camel-colored blazer that hits just below the hips.

  • Footwear: Black pointed-toe pumps.

  • Accessories: A statement watch and delicate earrings.

  • Why it works: The monochrome black of the jeggings and pumps creates an incredibly long leg line. The structured blazer balances the hips, and the silk blouse adds a touch of sophistication, drawing attention to the upper body.

• The Date Night Look:

  • Jeggings: Dark charcoal gray, high-rise jeggings.

  • Top: A black, form-fitting bodysuit with a deep V-neck.

  • Layering: A leather moto jacket that hits at the hip.

  • Footwear: Black heeled boots or pumps.

  • Accessories: A layered gold necklace and a small clutch bag.

  • Why it works: The high-waisted jeggings and bodysuit combination create a seamless, sleek line. The leather jacket adds a cool, structured element that subtly widens the shoulders, creating a balanced silhouette. The heels and layered necklace add a touch of glamour.

The Power of Posture and Confidence

Finally, no outfit can look its best without the right attitude. Posture and confidence are the ultimate accessories. Stand tall, with your shoulders back and your head held high. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows.

By choosing the right jeggings, strategically styling your upper body, and paying attention to the small details of footwear and accessories, you can create looks that not only make you feel comfortable but also incredibly confident and stylish. The key is to understand how different cuts, colors, and layers work together to create a balanced and flattering silhouette.