June 28, 2006

The dictionary defines the term ‘fashion’ variously as “the prevailing style or custom, as in dress or behavior” and “something, such as a garment, that is in the current mode”. But over the years, the term seems to have acquired a new meaning influenced by various socio-economic factors.

This has led to the popular belief that fashion is something reserved for the elite and the slender, svelte models who seem to be able to carry off any and every piece of clothing imaginable!! This notion is further fueled by the designers who affix astronomical price tags to their creations and ensure that they are well away from the reach of the common man. Even if you can afford one, you realize that getting into that outfit is going to be a major feat in itself!! There are a handful of designers who have begun thinking “out of the box”, but this is yet to morph into a large scale enterprise easily accessible to us all.

Until that happens there are a lot of ideas you can implement to achieve the kind of look you want while simultaneously camouflaging the not-so-flattering parts of your anatomy. Every time we take a peek at ourselves in the mirror, we find something that we wish we could change or do away with. Well, that is not a feasible option all the time. Hence, the next best thing — emphasize the good and downplay the bad!   

If you want to look leaner or taller, monochromatic is definitely the way to go. Outfits with the top and the bottom in a single color, give the impression of a slimmer and sleeker figure. Vertical stripes on your outfits will also help in achieving this effect. Pinstripes are an excellent choice. But stay away from horizontal stripes when seeking to look slimmer.

Large and open necklines make your neck appear longer. Similar rules apply to accessories too. High heels, big bags, long necklaces all serve the purpose. Open-toed shoes or sandals are recommended. Hip-length or longer jackets also get the go ahead. If you are a petite person, then make sure you go in for everything smaller—smaller prints, smaller bags. The fashionable jeans or pants with wide legs are definitely not for you.

Of the problem areas that need the most attention, a thick tummy is perhaps the source of distress for most of us. Wearing loose clothes will only worsen the situation and make you look dowdy and bulky. The key is in not drawing any further attention to your midriff and this can be achieved by wearing tops that lie loose around the waist and flat front pants and skirts preferably with elastic waistbands. Low waist jeans can also help out in this area.

If it is the legs and thighs that need to look toned, tailored, straight pants are what you need. Straight skirts that are at least knee-length can also do the trick. If you have well-toned arms, then wear a sleeveless top – that will draw attention away from the rest of you. The same applies to boatnecks but not if you have broad shoulders.

Shop around if you want a trendy wardrobe. Every time a designer comes out with a new line of clothes or accessories it is inevitable that the copycats will soon follow suit. Within a matter of days you will find inexpensive copies floating around and this is when you should go ahead and grab them. If you come across a top that fits you particularly well, buy it in at least two different colors. Make sure you have something in black, white and cream, the classic colors.

Plan ahead and make a list of what you absolutely need and look for those first. There is no