Question:

I would love to know what outfits I should choose when shopping. Unfortunately I am 5 foot tall and weigh 12 stone, so I always look short and dumpy. I tend to wear leggings and long jumpers to cover the mess. What will make me look taller and slimmer? Any suggestions?

Shirley, by email.

Answer:

Dear Shirley,

Thank you for your email.

If you want to appear slimmer and add height to your look, avoid straight, no-waist styles that hide your curves and assets. Lycra and stretch fabrics aren't very forgiving, so try heavier fabrics with a good drape that fall nicely over the leg. Go for fitted pieces, worn with a small heel for a long shapely look.

Tops and skirts, jackets and pants sometimes work better than a single dress. The more lines and seams, the more attention is drawn away from your problem areas. A solid skirt with two darts in front smoothes out your tummy area, as do flat front pants.

Avoid pants with front pleats, they add kilos to any look. For a more casual look, invest in some good jeans. A slight flair or boot-cut leg makes your thighs appear thinner.

Try a tailored pinstripe suit for a stylish look that helps elongate the body. A single button jacket over long pants helps slim the figure. An A-line dress to the knee helps hide a stomach and thighs and looks chic with some heels for extra height. Add a matching coat for the cooler winter climate, creating a polished look that camouflages unwanted lumps and bumps.

The AWW Fashion Team.

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