Understanding your body shape

You know girls this is the key to looking really stylish. You know all the times it went wrong for you because you bought something that looked fab on your pal yet did nothing for you, in fact it was a total mistake? Well of course it was, likely her body shape is different to yours. Learn the secret of dressing for your shape and avoid costly mistakes in future.I am short/high waisted with a short body.I also have a non existant waist. My legs are fairly long (good bit). My style challenge is to look taller by elongating the body and creating the illusion of a waist..
How to do this:
1. I avoid belts around the middle, best way for my shape is to wear them on the hip.This visually lengthens the torso.
2. I create vertical lines with v necks, long scarves, and long jewellery.
3. I never tuck in shirts, this would make me look like a sack tied in the middle.Instead wear them over your trousers with belt around the hips.
4. Find a dress that flatters your shape. The wrap dress is wonderful as long as there is no seam running around the waist.Better for the short waisted woman to have it tying under the bust as this is actually the narrowest part of the body.Again illusion! Try on different style until you find your perfect dress.
Well that's my shape girls but I will be writing about yours soon.

Big shoulders everywhere!

For any of us who remember the 80's then big shoulders was THE fashion statement of that decade. Dynasty and Dallas spring particularly to mind because the shoulders were so wide they'd nearly knock the eyes out of anyone who came too close. Well they're back girls, this time more subtle and I have to say it's a trend I like because they give definition and sharpen the silhouette. For anyone with sloping/rounded shoulders they balance the overall shape.It's said if you wait long enough everything comes back in fashion but I didn't really see this one coming on so fast.Iv'e noticed sequins on jumpers and dresses (on the shoulders) so this brings in another hugely popular trend. In face sequins are on everything too. If you feel you're too old or simply not interested in doing the whole sequin dress thing then I suggest buying yourself a little clutch or getting a belt. That way you can give a nod to the fashion trends. Mainly have fun!

Are we saying goodbye to size 0 models?

Hurrah for designer Mark Fast who used size 10 and 12 models to show his clothes at London Fashion Week. Despite a walkout by some of his employees he stuck to his guns and went ahead. The result was hugely successful and paid off. His attitude is that he wants the world to know that 'larger' sizes look just as good if not better than their skinny conuterparts. Isn't it about time fashion designers followed suit and let real women show their designs.What's attractive about a fab dress hanging off a stick thin body? Maybe it's been a case of the Emperors new clothes for too long and things are about to change? We will keep an eye on this one.

6 things you can do just for you!

The kids are back to school and you're on the treadmill again so it's time to get back a bit of 'me' time girls. Style gets placed on the back burner while you run yourself ragged for kids and significant other. So I'm going to suggest 6 things which will get you feeling good about yourself again.
1. Get comfortable with your body.
I bet you could instantly rhyme of all the things you dislike/hate about your body but now I want you to take a long hard look at yourself. Hoe are the legs, ankles, shoulders, eyes? any part of yourself that you like. Remember girls there is no such thing as the perfect body so for now please take time to think about the parts you love and think about highlighting them.
2. Create a 'mood board'.
You wouldn't dream of putting in a new kitchen or bathroom without pulling out pictures from every magazine in sight. Well make 'you' your next project. Put a bit of time aside and pull out images that attract you, it may be colour, shape or style. Study them and figure out what it is about them you admire. Then place them somewhere convenient for inspiration. Make lists and bring them with you when you go shopping. Don't leave something you desire between the pages of a magazine.
3. Get yourself a great new hairstyle. This can instantly knock 10 years off you visually.
4. Find yourself a 'wow' piece. This can be anything from a piece of jewelley to a fab pair of shoes. The main thing is that you treat yourself to something. It needn't be expensive though if it is so what! to quote L'Oreal 'you're worth it!
5. Get youself some fab underwear. Consign anything greyed/saggy to the knicker crematorium. It's the most fantastic feeling to wear something luxurious under you clothes.
6. De clutter your wardrobe, you wont want to start but I promise you will be on top of the world when you do it. Everythig will be readily accessible, and there will only be items in there that you will wear. never again will you say 'I've nothing to wear!