The rules

1. Be realistic about your size Don't wedge yourself into the wrong size. Spray-on fashion never looks good. 'Squeezing into clothes that are too small actually accentuates lumps and bumps,' points out Amanda Slader, Chief Fashion Adviser at John Lewis, 'you will look slimmer and more comfortable in the right size.' Focus on the fit rather than what's printed on a label, the aim is to look sleek, not like a sack of spuds. 'Have confidence in yourself and your shape,' says size 14 model Crystal Renn, 'Remember that the average size these days is a size 14 so you're in good company!'

2. Create an optical illusion Ever wondered why the front row of a catwalk show is occupied by a gaggle of fashion editors dressed in black? Simple. Head-to-toe black tricks the eye into registering a longer, leaner figure, 'Creating a column in the same colour is a trick that elongates the silhouette and gives a balanced look,' confirms Slader. And, if funereal style is not for you, carefully chosen prints and patterns can provide the perfect camouflage, 'Geometric and abstract print tops flatter the larger figure,' notes Nick Georgiou Head of Design at Evans, 'just remember it's all about balance. Add slimming black or dark-coloured bottoms for a bold, balanced look.'

3. Choose tailoring 'One outfit that is guaranteed to flatter is a finely tailored trouser suit, worn with a crisp white shirt.' advises Slader, 'This is a classic look that can be worn casually or formally, depending on the choice of fabric and cut.' As Coco Chanel once said, 'Fashion is architecture, it is a matter of proportions.' Roughly translated this means: well-cut clothes help to sculpt and enhance the body. Good-quality tailoring looks good on everyone, and is worth splashing out on. Think Anna Wintour in her signature Chanel suit, rather than Madonna in H&M and you're on the right track.

4. Draw attention away from problem areas This is a bit like selling a house - the canny homeowner highlights the most attractive features and neatly papers over the cracks. So be your own house doctor, make the most of your assets -an elegant neck or toned arms – to take the emphasis away from any dodgy bits. 'Find one good thing about your body and accentuate it,' says Renn, 'and don't be afraid to experiment with shape, colour and pattern.' You too can be a hot property.

Ask the experts We asked three experts – a fashion adviser, a size 14 model and a designer - for guidance on how to flatter our figures and dress slim. Here's what they said:

The fashion adviser

The American supermodel

The fashion designer

Click here for the drop-a-dress-size gallery

Copyright © 2007 allaboutyou.com