The Must-Know Fashion Tips For Dressing Your Shape

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No matter what shape category you fall into, there are ways to give your confidence a boost simply by knowing how to show off your curves perfectly. Whether you want to disguise arms or hide a tummy, our fashion team know the tricks that will have you looking slimmer in an instant...

Embracing your curves:

Andrea Ita, 46, wears dress, £65, & Other Stories, belt, £29.99, Mango, bag, £180, Kurt Geiger.

  • Always define that waist and cinch it in with a belt but avoid skinny versions. Think about proportions - more curves = wider belt. Make it a sash or obi belt in supple suede, which moves with you.

  • It's all about proportion and scale - if you're wearing print make sure it's bold and larger (small ditzy florals are a no no).

  • Avoid the black is thinning trap - worn as a separate is works but all over and it will make you look bigger.

Disgusing a tummy:

Karen Smyth, 54, wears top, £89, Jigsaw, necklace, £29, Phase Eight, culottes, £165, LK Bennett, shoes, £295, Bionda Castana for LK Bennett.

  • A patterned top will disguise but avoid slim stripes that can highlight the problem. Longer line tops in a more structured fabric (think heavier weight) is ideal.

  • Wear flat fronted trousers to avoid bulk around the tummy area.

  • Use jewellery above the waistline to detract away from your tummy.

Flattering a larger bust:

Davina Payne, 38, wears jumpsuit, £250, A Day In A Life, earrings, £155, Marc by Marc Jacobs at Very Exclusive, sandals, £40, Oasis.

  • Avoid high neck tops in a solid block of colour that will emphasize your bust. V necklines are the most flattering and print can also disguise a larger bust.

  • Use earrings to attract attention up and away from the bust line.

Disguising arms:

Terrie Bentham, 53, wears shirt dress, £232.99, Evelin Brandt at Navabi, top, £9.90; jeggings, £34.90, both Uniqlo, bag, £225, Reiss, espadrilles, £45, La Redoute.

  • Always show off your wrists - these are the slimmest part of every woman.

  • Don't feel the need to go full length - shorter kimono sleeves and rolled up sleeves are ideal.

  • Oversized bangles on one arm or a statement necklace diverts attention away from where you don't want it.