Right Clothing Choice Can Shave 10 Pounds

Maybe you have the dollars when it comes to buying clothes, but having the sense is another thing. After all, that's what it takes when it comes to dressing slimmer -- and effectively looking 10 pounds lighter.

"No matter what's in style, knowing what looks good on you can be the difference between fabulous and frumpy," said Jessica, a saleswoman at Banana Republic.

Do you lunge for the newest fashion, run out to get the hottest trend? It's great to be fashionable, but sometimes there's a fine line between fashionista and fashion victim.



""Wearing dark colors or monochromatic color schemes -- in any color -- can camouflage your weight," said Laura Schara, a trend expert at Macy's. "However, you want to avoid looking boring, so break it up with some fun accessories."

Dress Your Age

Knowing what works for your age can save a lot of trouble when shopping for clothes. Just like most college students don't want to dress like a middle-aged woman, most middle-aged women should avoid dressing like a teen, even if they are in great shape and look good for their age.

Here are some suggestions on what you should and should not wear, based on your age:

20s & 30s: "You're young enough to pull off almost any trend, so go for it," said Schara -- as long as you're comfortable in it and you don't find yourself tugging at it to make it fit you.

40s & 50s: Go for the classics that will last you season after season, like a great statement coat. It's time to invest in fabulous handbags and shoes that show off your personal style.

60s & Up: Keep your look polished with classics, but don't be afraid to throw in some bold color and metallic extras.

Dressing For Your Body Type

Knowing your body type and the styles that work with your features can make life a lot easier. Whether you're thin or curvy, tall or short, knowing what works for you can improve your assets and minimize those areas you may want to hide.

• Curvy: "There are many patterns that can camouflage weight," said Schara. "One rule of thumb is that if you are curvy, you'll want to wear one bigger, bolder print."
  "If you want to minimize curves, hips and thighs, stay away from pants that are tapered or slim," she said.
• Petite: "If you are petite, bigger prints can overwhelm you, so go with smaller prints and patterns," said Schara.
  "Wear V-neck shirts; the open neckline makes your neck appear longer, and you'll appear taller," she said. "Also avoid horizontal stripes. Vertical lines such as pinstripes will give the illusion of being taller or thinner."
• Tall: "Wide-leg slouchy trousers or jeans look best on taller individuals, and they're a great way to accentuate your waist to appear slimmer," said Schara.

Fabrics Matter

You've probably seen at least a few people wearing too-tight clothing that reveals every imperfection on those areas that would best remain hidden -- hello, Lycra bike shorts! You probably don't want to emulate that look if you want to dress to impress.

"Stay away from clingy jersey-knit dresses and tops that show every dimple and bulge," said Schara. "Go for fabrics that are heavier in weight or items that are lined."

If you are in love with a semi-sheer dress or one without a liner, consider getting a throwback to yesteryear: the old faithful slip.

Accessorize

Accessories can make or break an outfit. They can turn a drab pantsuit into something enviable; they can turn a drab T-shirt and jeans into the hottest outfit at a get together.

Start with shoes to make a great impact.

"Heels can do wonders for many," Schara said. "If you want to add height, try wedges -- and if you want to make your ankles look lean, avoid ankle straps on shoes as those will cut you off in the wrong place."

Just because ankle straps can make your ankles look chunky doesn't mean you should simply give up and throw on a pair of boots.

"Be careful with boots if you are concerned about your calves," said Schara. "Wear tall boots that end just below the bend of the knee. Never wear boots that cut you off mid-calf."

Remember, a great pair of shoes isn't the only way to kick an outfit into high gear.

"Buy accessories, such as handbags, that coordinate with your height and size," said Schara. "If you're petite, the oversized tote may overwhelm you; go for the trendy 'day clutch.' If you are taller or curvy, the midsized to oversized tote can balance you out."

Your Body And Style

One of the most important things to remember when it comes to style is keeping good posture, Schara said.

"Feeling confident about what you're wearing is the most important fashion tip out there," she said. "If you feel good about what you have on, it will show in your attitude and smile, and that is really all that matters."

To help with posture, Schara advised investing in a good, supportive bra.

Finding a bra that fits and one that is ill-fitting can make the difference between good and poor posture, confidence and insecurity, well-fitting clothing or a disheveled look.

"That (correctly fitted bra) alone can make you look 10 pounds thinner," said Schara.

"That (correctly fitted bra) alone can make you look ten pounds thinner," said Schara.