What Not to Wear

Over the past year, I’ve watched almost every episode of TLC’s What Not to Wear. It’s a bit like virtual shopping for me. At first I couldn’t believe people actually dressed like some of the person’s they had on the show.

If you don’t know the show, its based on persons writing in about family members, friends or co-workers who have a really warped sense of style and are in need of a makeover.  Secret footage of these individuals’ faux paux is filmed. The hosts, Stacy London and Clinton Kelly, then surprise them with a proposal to hand over the contents of their closet in exchange for a $5000 shopping spree in New York city.  However, there is one stipulation, the participants must follow the hosts’ fashion rules.  It’s not that hard as they can make anyone look good.

I’ve noticed that they never focus on what’s ‘in fashion’, but what works for a person’s body. The bottom  line, looking your best is less about trends and more about what works well on your body. So with some tips form Stacy and Clinton, and the fashionistas on the desk, here are some of Flair’s general rules for dressing your body type and what not to wear.

(1) Unless you’re petite, stay away from horizontal stripes. Horizontal stripes gives the illusion of being wider and nobody wants that.

(2) If you are uncomfortable with your mid-section (tummy), choose an empire waist which puts the emphasis on the smallest part of your body.

(3) A skirt that flares away from the body can help balance a large chest.

(4) If you are short, do not wear skirts below the knee, they make you look shorter. Make skirts stop at the knee.

(5) If you have a large chest, do not wear tight fitting tops as it overemphasizes your bust line.

(6) If you are a full-figured woman, stay away from large prints.

(7) Ruffles on a top can help to disguise a small chest.

(8) When selecting a jacket, make sure it tapers at the waist to help define the waist.

(9) Put darker colors on bottom with lighter colours on top. This creates a balance and gives you shape.

(10) Make friends with a good tailor;  pants that are too long, waists that are too large are usually easy fixes for a good tailor. Its rare that something off the rack fits you perfectly.

An empire waist hits the smallest part of your body hiding 'trouble' areas.