Chic in the chill: How to pull it off

If you haven't seen your walking shoes or the inside of a gym for a while, the arrival of winter clothes in the shops probably has you breathing a huge sigh of relief.
Though summer is the season of dresses showing off toned shoulders and shorts revealing lean legs, winter, with its layers and longer lengths, is the time to put to work one of my favourite fashion tricks: the optical illusion.
Dressing to make yourself look slimmer is surprisingly easy.
Always buy clothes that are a good fit. Anything that cuts in or is too tight will make you look heavier, so put aside any emotions you have about being a certain size and try on a variety. Stay well clear of shiny fabrics on any problem areas.
It can be tempting to hide the bits of your body you're not so fond of under an expanse of fabric. But if you're staying away from anything tight, too baggy is not the answer, either. Think floaty and body-skimming, not tent-like and frumpy. Clothes that hint at your shape underneath, without clinging to it or completely hiding it, are best.
Don't wear anything with a ruffle on any part of your body that you want to hide.
Choose dark colours, which are instantly slimming. One of the big trends this season is colour-blocking - try a monochromatic dark-blue top with dark grey trousers.
Avoid horizontal stripes but look for subtle pinstripes or diagonals to draw the eye down, rather than across, your body. Scale patterns to your size - the bigger you are, the bigger the print's pattern should be.
If you want to elongate your look and appear taller, stick to a similar colour right through your outfit. Don't cut yourself off anywhere with a belt - this can often just emphasise girth. Always wear your trousers long enough to cover part of your shoes.
Play up your best assets. If you are heavier on top, an A-line dress will let you show off toned calves. If it's your bottom half you want to hide, wear a dark skirt and a brightly patterned top to draw people's attention up.
Accessorise well and use a medium-sized or big handbag. A smaller one will make you look bigger in comparison.
For work, look for a suit with straight trousers or an A-line skirt. Straight or slim-cut trousers tend to be more flattering than those with a flared bottom.
One of my favourite looks at the moment - and one that works well whatever your shape - is the tunic top. Wear one over your jeans, team it with leggings, tie a belt around the middle or just let it float free. Team the outfit with your favourite pair of knee-high boots and you have a versatile look for work or play.