The next few posts will be short and sweet as the series on getting dressed and looking great wraps up. Today let’s talk about thick calves and ankles.

The idea with large calves and ankles is to elongate. Attempt this by keeping the lower legs open as possible by wearing skirts (and pants too) that stop above the calf. Hems that stop right at the knee are flattering on everyone. Pants such as capri and cropped styles that stop mid-calf aren’t the best choice. Wide leg and flare pants, boot cut and trouser-style jeans, and long flowy skirts (if you’re tall enough to not get swallowed up in a long skirt) are much better.

In a skirt, keep the lower leg a monotone color to keep things nice and long. For instance, black tights and shoes with a black skirt, bare legs with a shoe that matches your skin tone.

Like with wide hips or a big bum, draw the eye up and away with a beautiful top, pretty jewelry, scarves, glasses, healthy shiny hair, and your gorgeous face.

Simple shoe styles will be most flattering. Consider wearing a heel when you are dressing up or what you’re doing allows it. Try D’Orsay, sling backs (make sure the strap will stay on the back of your heel though-I’ve yet to find a pair that will), a slim wedge, peep-toe, and stacked heels are terrific for heavy calves and ankles. Avoid ankle straps on shoes as they visually cut the leg off, don’t elongate and make the ankle look heavy. Look for shoes that aren’t too dainty or with too skinny of a heel, but at the same time be careful with a heel that is too chunky or heavy. Shoe boots can and will cut the leg off much like an ankle strap. Also be aware that very pointy toes and very square toes both shorten and broaden your foot, so a moderate toe shape is best.

And I have to add; a pedicure will make your feet more beautiful, no matter what shoe you put them in.

Got any tips to add? Share in the comments below!