Lauren Conrad loses her "boyfriend layer," but gets to keep the guy

Conrad reportedly admits to putting on a few extra pounds during the beginnings of her relationship with actor Kyle Howard. A few more dinners out and a lot less exercise later, she accumulated what she refers to as the "boyfriend layer" around her middle.

How'd she manage to lose the so-called layer before her bikini cover shoot for Shape magazine's September issue? Dates to the gym - surely not as romantic, but much more productive. She's also started eating healthier by consuming more fresh foods than before.

Looks like her hard work paid off. The weight is gone, and LC looks stunning and happier than ever.

After leaving "The Hills," Conrad said that her self-esteem soared. Maybe it's Kyle or maybe it's the new line of clothing she's been designing, LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's, due to hit store shelves this October.

Her affordable line of jeans and tops is designed to flatter everyone's best features. Conrad told Shape magazine, "It's all about finding silhouettes that highlight the best parts of your figure."

Lucky for her, her own figure is looking quite good these days.

Sources: N.Y. Daily News, People, E! Online