Dark colours certainly can minimize the bulges, but it’s not the only sartorial route to a more slender you. Instead, be inventive and follow these guidelines.

Defining Idea

‘I have always said that the best clothes are invisible… they make you notice the person.’

- KATHARINE HAMNETT

• Create the illusion of being longer and leaner by dressing head to foot in the same shade, even if its white
• Don’t by a snug M or L size just coz that’s your usual size. You can lose pounds by wearing slightly looser clothes that skim over bumps and hangflatteringly.
• Lined clothes won’t hug you so unforgivingly. Lined trousers are a godsend, particularly in summer, as they drop crisply, however hot and sweaty you are beneath.
• A-line skirts flatter almost everyone because they don’t cling to your curves and do minimize your bottom. The best length is on or just below the knee and if you team it with knee-length boots you can disguise thick legs and hefty unfeminine thighs. In summer, a light-coloured skirt can look great with suede boots.
• Hipster jeans can be really flattering as they create the illusion of having smaller hips. Keep a close eye on the flesh overhang, however, which can ruin the effect, and stick to the boot-leg cut, which is flattering as it makes your legs look longer and slimmer.
• Always wear a heel, however tall you are. The extra inch or two will add length and can make you more aware of your posture.
• Stick to textured fabrics, which can help to ‘break-up’ flesh.
• Disguise a big bust with V-necks and low scoop necks. Slash necks and halter necks will make you look bulky.
• Always choose trousers with hems long enough to skim the top of a boot or shoe. This will immediately draw the eye down, giving the impression of a longer, leaner leg. Avoid tapered trousers, clam diggers and pedal pushers, which make almost everyone’s thighs look bigger and legs look shorter and squatter than they are.
• Go for well-fitting brassieres with uplift and knickers that flatten in the right places. With bras, aim to banish seams, puckering and surplus flesh bursting out of cups.

Here’s an idea for you….

Colour experts say white, sliver and mother of pearl are ‘eternally feminine’. Investing in striking sliver or pearl jewellery is the easiest way to wear these colours. A soft shell-pink wrap and mother-of-pearl make-up will look particularly great against a tan. Light colours close to your face can reflect light and take years off you, too.