EITHER SIDE OF AVERAGE 70 Fashion Dec 2015
IMELETA KELLETT
In New Zealand our population is so small that if you fall outside of the norms of what is deemed ‘average’ you may struggle to find garments to fit you. Too tall, too petite, too big. Large or small feet, whatever your issue, chances are you will have challenges finding clothing to solve it easily. A key principle of looking good is wearing garments that fit you well, so if you are a ‘non-standard’ size, the compromises you have to make can often work against you. No matter what your size challenge, there are ways to dress that will have you looking your very best. Here are my top tips for looking fabulous no matter if you are plus size or petite. FOR PETITES • • • • • • • •
Wearing a similar colour top and bottom will make you look taller. Keep your silhouette slim — pencil skirts, slim pants. Go for smaller prints. Go for shorter tops and jackets to add length to your legs. Your longest skirt should only be around 6cm below your knee. Have your sleeves taken up if they are too long. Yes, you need to find an alterations specialist — as anything too long will ruin your look. Wear heels instead of flats.
FOR PLUS-SIZE • • • • • • • •
MAKE-UP ARTIST
BY APPOINTMENT: jemo_kellett@yahoo.co.nz 021 02345 404 09 908 3862
Look for sharp tailoring: the angles will flatter your curves. Wear light colours under dark jackets. Wear single-breasted jackets open. Vertical details work well, striped shirts, zipped jackets and dresses. Soft fabrics that drape work well under tailored jackets. Dresses work well to create slimming and lengthening lines. Ensure your shirts and jackets have their shoulder seam at your shoulder, rather extending down your arm. Wear jackets that taper through your torso and for women, tailoring that flares below the waist.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE TALL • • • • • •
Wear checked shirts rather than striped. Look for contrasts between your top and bottom half. Wear a contrasting shoe and belt. Mid-length (not too far below the knee) skirts work best. Add a false hem to your pants for greater length. Take risks, you can carry edgier looks.
JACKIE O’FEE IS THE OWNER OF SIGNATURE STYLE, AUCKLAND’S LEADING PERSONAL STYLING CONSULTANCY. IF YOU’D LIKE HELP LOOKING YOUR VERY BEST, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR SIZE OR SHAPE, SHE’D LOVE TO HELP! SIMPLY CALL ON 09 529 5115 OR POP IN TO THE STUDIO AT 35 BROADWAY. FURTHER INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE AT SIGNATURESTYLE.CO.NZ