How to figure your figure

By Sally Cowan

“We often see only what we want to see!”  This quote is so true in the area of figure concerns.  Rather than ignore your weaker points, perhaps it would be better to face up to them and try and dress accordingly.

We all know our figure types, but do we know the kind of clothes that are best suited to hide them?  You will get a ticket for hit and run on the road, but in buying your clothes, you’ll be completely ignored—no tickets, not compliments, in short—nothing.

If you are tall and thin, you are the lucky ones. You can wear almost anything.  Soft fullness looks best because you don’t want to look like a bean pole in something severe and tight fitting.  (Except when biking).  Those with a heavy waistline should wear small self belts and avoid bright colors, narrow skirts and wide belts.

If you are tall and bosomy (a rather neat word) try a U-neckline to help, minimize your bosom.  Strive for the long-waisted look—low-cut pants or a skirt worn low on the hips.

Okay, petite frames—avoid turtle necks and oversized accessories.  Wear monotones to appear taller and high waisted skirts and pants.  I haven’t forgotten you short people.  If you are short and have heavy hips and thighs, dark colors give you a longer thinner line.  Wear tops that are long enough to cover your hips.  Bias cut dresses and skirts will cover up those bulges.  With the dark colors wear vivid accessories to brighten it up.

If you are short and thin with a full bosom, stay away from T-shirts and don’t wear light tops with dark pants or skirts because the contrast will make you look even shorter.

Wear a full-cut skirt with perhaps a flowery print blouse.

Clothes don’t make the man, but let’s face it; those first impressions can certainly be lasting.  Be sure you have a FULL length mirror somewhere in your house (something that I think is sorely missed in most homes.).  Before you leave take a good look and be self-critical.  In fact, take a good LONG look.