Style tips: Embrace your body shape

The end of the year is approaching rapidly and we've started thinking about what we want to achieve come the New Year. For many women, dieting and getting in shape will be top of the New Year's resolution list.
We're all for healthy eating, exercise and looking after yourself, however, looking stylish is often about working out your body shape and embracing what you have been blessed with. Being armed with the know-how to work your best assets will be your biggest confidence-booster when it comes to fashion. It's time to accept that some of us just don't look good in skinny-leg jeans and body-con dresses and instead of making this something negative, turn it into a positive by working on what does make us look amazing.
So come 2011, eat healthily, keep fit and look after yourself, but remember to embrace what you have and dress to accentuate those assets.
Invest wisely
If you're not careful, Boxing Day sales can result in many unwise purchases. Shopping during sales can be either a godsend or a disaster. Buying for the sake of getting a bargain is not an advisable move. On the other hand, hanging out until sales time for those expensive investment pieces is often the way to go.
Once 2011 arrives, make a goal to spend money more wisely when it comes to fashion. Trends come and go, whereas investment pieces are guaranteed to last the distance (think quality handbags, a classic trench coat and amazing jeans). When it comes to trends, pick and choose the ones that appeal to you and suit your body shape and buy a few key pieces that you can mix and match. Invest most of your clothing budget in classic pieces that can be worn season after season, no matter what trends are hot at the moment.
And remember that a little money invested in some TLC for your clothes will be worth it in the long run. Make a rule to take better care of your clothing - follow washing instructions, dry-clean garments and re-heel shoes at the first sign of wear and tear - you'll extend your wardrobe's lifespan and end up saving money.

Learn to accessorise
Knowing how to accessorise is the key to looking chic. A piece of statement jewellery can make or break an outfit, just like a classic leather handbag can make any outfit look a million dollars. Using accessories creatively will set you ahead in the world of fashion. Inexpensive pieces are a good way to keep up with the latest trends without having to overhaul your entire wardrobe. Mixing and matching accessories will expand your wardrobe and give outfits that you thought may have had their time a whole new life.
On the other hand, those staple investment pieces will lift your look every time, no matter what the occasion. Like those eternally chic garments that you invest in, do the same for some accessories - for starters think a high-quality handbag, watch and sunglasses. They are three pieces that you will never regret spending on and that you won't be able to live without.

Got a fashion or style topic you'd like us to cover? Email Natalie at editor@simplyyou.co.nz