With spring comes not only the time to Refresh and Renew Your Wardrobe, but it's also a time to get rid of items in your closet that aren't flattering. We all have several items in our closet that make us look heavier than we really are, so why keep them around?

As you can see in the above picture of Ashley Tisdale and Audrina Patridge, what you are wearing can make a big impact on how you look. Some looks, like Audrina's, are slimming. Others, like Ashley's, can add a few pounds to your frame. In the February 2009 issue of Cosmopolitan magazine, they dished on the eight most common pieces women own that make them look heavier. It's time to ditch those Clothes That Make You Look Heavier for good! Follow Cosmo's tips and look even better in 2009.

Shapeless Coats:  These things are just all bad. A lot of peacoats and trenches have no definition to them, which makes it look like your body has no shape underneath the jacket. Even in the winter you should still be able to show off your curves!

Tip:  Instead of the Wool Blend Lady Coat from Forever 21, try the Zari Knit Jacket from Forever 21.

Head-to-Toe Print:  While this trend is common in maxi dresses, it's not always good. Head-to-toe patterns tend to be overwhelming and look messy, which makes you look heavier. Instead, pair a patterned top or bottom with a solid top or bottom. The overall effect is much cuter and you will look slimmer.

Tip:  Instead of the Mikayla Satin Dress from Forever 21, try pairing the Rose Garden Cropped Cardigan from Forever 21 with dark wash jeans or a skirt.

Sweatpants:  While they are very comfortable and we all love to wear them around the house, not every pair should be worn outside. Many styles, especially older styles or those by lower-end brands, tend to be baggy in all the wrong spots. You can still be comfy without being frumpy! Try a fitted style, such as yoga pants, or even leggings.

Tip:  Instead of the Malibu Athletic Pant from Forever 21, try the Shelly Yoga Pant from Abercrombie & Fitch.

Oversized Tops & Bags:  These two trends are great on their own but just don't work too well together. Wearing an oversize top with a large bag looks sloppy and will make you look top heavy. Instead, opt for an oversize top with a clutch or a large purse with a fitted top.

Tip:  Instead of the Batwing Turtleneck Sweater Top from Forever 21, try the Laurie Sweater Cardigan from Forever 21.

Short Fringe Boots:  While I still love the fringe boots trend, I have to admit that Cosmo is right on this one. Wearing short boots with lots of attention-grabbing detail will make your legs look shorter and will make you look heavier. Try picking boots that hit at mid-calf or just under your knees for a better look. Tall Boots are very flattering on everyone.

Tip:  Instead of the Hailey Moc Boot from Forever 21, try the Thelma Fringe Boots from Forever 21.

Down Jackets:  While these jackets are very functional and will keep you warm, they will also make you look at least 10 pounds heavier. There are many other jackets out there made from fabrics, such as wool, that are just as warm as down without the bulk. Plus, going with a classier style, like a peacoat or belted trench, means that you will be able to get a lot more wear out of the jacket.

Tip:  Instead of the Celeste Jacket from Abercrombie & Fitch, try the Olivia Toggle Peacoat from Forever 21.

Ruffles:  Ruffles are another trend that I love because they are a great way to add some texture to an outfit; however, don't overdo it! Ruffles can add inches onto your frame. While ruffles along the hemline, neckline, or by the buttons of a shirt are cute, ruffles all over are not. Especially if they are on your stomach or waist!  Or skip the ruffles all together and go for a slimming pattern like horizontal stripes.

Tip:  Instead of the Satin Ruffle Dress from Forever 21, try the Rachel Ruffle Sequin Cardigan from Forever 21 paired with dark wash jeans or a skirt.

Wide-Bottom Sweaters:  These are comfy items that a lot of women wear on days when they aren't feeling so hot. What they don't realize is that you not only look frumpy, but also heavier by making your hips look wider and hiding your waist. Instead of trying to hide in a bulky sweater, show off your figure! Try wearing a belted shirt dress with some dark wash jeans. The shirt dress will give you the coverage that you want without adding on bulk.

Tip:  Instead of the Blake Sweater Cardigan from Forever 21, try the Belted Open Cardigan from Forever 21.