Fashion: Small tricks add instant style

Rose after her Gorgeous Me makeover.

Oh what a difference the right styling can do for your figure. Take Rose. This is her on the same day before and after her Gorgeous Me makeover. She looks like she's lost 10kg, all of it through styling.

Rose before her makeover.

The key to looking slimmer:

*Wear more fitted clothes, as opposed to big and baggy. A lot of women wear clothes that are loose fitting to hide their size, lumps and bumps. It's why tunic tops are so popular. The problem is, these bigger clothes often make you appear bigger than you really are. I encourage you, where possible, to wear clothes that contour the body more. Don't panic, I'm not suggesting figure hugging. That's impractical for many. Women are astounded by the difference it makes.

*Opt for plain, simple styling and design lines as opposed to anything that adds unnecessary volume, eg, tucks, pleats and gathers.

*Dark colours and matte fabrics are very slimming, as opposed to light and/or shiny fabrics.

*Straight-leg pants give a very slimming look; I encourage you to try them. I have converted so many women from bootleg cut to straight and they can't believe the difference it makes.

*Side panels. You will often see dresses, jackets, tops and pants with a side panel design in a plain or contrasting colour or pattern from the central panel. These give a very slimming line visually. The eye is tricked into believing that the only part of the garment is the centre panel. Rose is wearing a jacket like this above.

*Wear a heel. Elevating the heel of your foot instantly gives your calves a more slimming look. Stand on your tip-toes and you'll see what I mean. It needn't be a high heel; even an inch or so can make a difference.

*Get your foundations right. Just like building a house, the foundations are the most important part. Ensure you wear the best bra for your shape and size. Women are amazed at how much slimmer they look when they're in the right bra. Get professionally fitted - it doesn't cost anything and it's well worth it. According to Bendon, 80 per cent of New Zealand women wear the wrong size of bra. Sizes vary between brands and styles.

There is also the option of shapewear - "nana knickers" as we frequently call them. They have advanced a long way and are truly fabulous for giving you a more toned look.

*Hemlines - end these at the slimmest parts of your body, not the widest. For example, if you have a big bust, avoid short sleeves that end along the visual line of your bust. They will make your top half appear bigger. If you have big hips, thighs and/or bottom, end your tops above or below the widest points. The same goes with trouser lengths - if you have thick calves, avoid Capri pants that end at this point.

Send your questions for Lisa to regionalfeatures@nzme.co.nz.

Lisa Lyford is the founder of Gorgeous Me, free DIY personal styling and makeover advice.

www.gorgeousme.co.nz