How to Show Some Leg (The Right Way)

Must to my occasional dismay, I'm not exactly built like your typical actress and model, with their super-slim physiques, miles-long legs, and perfectly defined waists. Which is just one of the reasons why I often get a glimpse at these gorgeous stars’ ensembles and think, “I could never pull that off.” And yes, when they’re wearing something like a typical Jennifer Lopez catsuit or Kendall Jenner’s 2014 Billboard Music Awards outfit, that can definitely be the case.

But there are plenty of star style staples that can be translated to real life — one of which is the insanely sexy, thigh-high slit. Whether it’s worn in the form of a maxi dress, floor-length skirt, or full-out glamorous gown, a sky-high slit is one of the simplest ways to add a little oomph and sex appeal to your night-out outfit. And the best part? It can be totally tasteful and subtle — when done the right way, of course. So if you’re ready to show a little leg, take a few tips from these gorgeous stars, who have all rocked the look within the last week.

1. Choose a lightweight fabric

What's the point of wearing a leg-baring slit if it's in heavy wool, crepe, or jacquard fabric that allows for little movement and few chances for a peek at your gams? That's why it's smart to choose a flowing, lightweight skirt — made from a fabric such as satin or chiffon, like Jessica Chastain's Elie Saab Couture gown — that will move effortlessly with your body and flow over your legs and curves.

2. Stick with a streamlined shoe

There are few things worse than showing off your gorgeous, long legs with a thigh-high slit only to look down and see a clunky shoe sticking out. Keep your entire outfit sleek and streamlined by choosing a lightweight, low-profile sandal or heel, like the double-strap pair model Alessandra Ambrosio matched with her Atelier Versace gown at the Cannes Film Festival.

3. Define your waist

Whether it's with a thin belt or a thick band of contrasting-color fabric — like the one on Adriana Lima's smoking-hot Alexandre Vauthier Couture creation — defining and cinching your waist is a sure-fire way to make your sky-high slit just that more seductive.

4. Pick a visually intriguing neckline

Leg-baring slits have enough lengthening and slimming power on their own, but you can ramp that up even further by choosing a high-cut or statement neckline — like the scoop-neck paneled one on Blake Lively's Gucci number — that will draw the eye up and make you look inches taller in an instant.

5. Play with a subtle side slit

Not sure a full-on frontal slit is the right fit for you? Then follow model Liu Wen's lead and opt for a more subtly placed side slit, which offers all the drama of a front slit, but in a more toned-down fashion.

Oh, and one last tip: When rocking a super-high slit, it never hurts to strike an Angelina pose.