Miss Selfridge
M&S Collection £35
Marks & Spencer £299
M&S Collection
Wallis
Wallis £120
Wallis
BHS £60
BODY CONSCIOUS SHAPE UP IN THE NEW LOOKS WHATEVER YOUR SIZE There seems to be so many different trends this season, so ESP’s style guru Sue Donnelly has picked the best of the bunch with tips on how to make them work for you, whatever your shape or size. 1. Coats. In this category you have lots of choice. No longer do you have to invest in a coat that will last you for years. This is your chance to have a number, depending on your mood and the occasion. Duster coats and oversize cardigans are a brilliant choice for those of you who want to hide your midriff or need something roomy to wear over a suit. Most have no fastening or collar so are easy to slip on. Look out for bright colours to cheer up the grey days. Orange, coral pink, cobalt blue, vivid purple and lime green means there is something to suit everyone. If you want to show off your waist, choose an elegant kimono or classic wrap style and belt them tightly. Trench coats can be found in classic camel or vivid scarlet for that 60's vibe. To be really fashionable, wear two coats together. Slip the top one over your shoulder so you’re extra warm and extra cool! 2. Tops. Shirts have replaced the more flexible tunic top, which can cause problems for the larger busted. Buttons can gape or additional fabric can be too voluminous. Wear under a sweater or with a cami beneath to keep out the
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cold. Sweaters will always have a space in our wardrobe. The new ones tend to be shorter, as higher waistbands are making a comeback on both trousers and skirts, creating a neat line on the body. They can be thick, fabric wise so not always a great option for those who want to slim down their middle section. Chunkier knits, such as cable, can add a great deal of visual volume. There is a lot of softness and a lot of sparkle around. Mix and match these two to create a brand new way of wearing your clothes. Shiny fabrics and sequins are not just for night time dressing. 3. Skirts. Midi length is the one to watch. This new length can cover up a multitude of sins but if it cuts across the calf at the widest point it can give the impression of stumpy legs. Wear with shoes or ankle boots (rather than knee high) so some 'flesh' is on display. Watch also for the side split. This adds a sexy touch. Pleats are back, especially in shiny, silky fabrics. Worn with a sweater or a tailored jacket, this gives a completely fresh look to a traditional garment. Don't like? Then stick to good old trousers.
These will have a higher waistband than we have been seeing recently and a looser, slouchier fit in the leg. Great for most shapes, especially pear and hourglass, as they balance out the body. Apple shapes are better sticking to a slim fit. Pleats, in fine or sheer fabrics, have crept into culottes and all in one ‘jumpsuits’ too, so the silhouette is more ladylike and elegant than in previous seasons. 4. Shoes. High heels are no longer de rigeur. However, a mid block heel of 2-3 inches is absolutely fine. Burgundy and plum make a welcome change from black or brown. 5. Neutrals. For those of us that like to stick to plain colours, grey, navy and cocoa are the colours of choice. Softer than black, they are more flattering for many of us. Add a splash of a bright colour to liven up or wear 2 or 3 tonal shades, with slight variations together for the most up to date way of wearing these basics. Sue Donnelly www.suedonnelly.com