6 ways to SLIM WITH STRIPES

Colours for CURVES

If you want to try stripes but worry about them exaggerating your curves, this oversized cardigan in bright, block colours is a great introduction. With an understated ensemble beneath, it will show off your figure, while skimming over hips and hiding any areas you’re less keen to display. Cardigan, £110, hushuk.com; Top, £45, shoes, £130, both lkbennett.com; Skirt, £22, next.co.uk; Bag, above, £29.99, zara.com

Longer LEGS

WANT the legs of a ballerina without the hard work? a pair of racing stripes are an effective way to lengthen pins. Trousers, £110, whistles.com; Jacket, £129, fennwright manson.com; Top, £45, sandals, £185, both lkbennett.com; Watch (below), £139, katespade.co.uk

The shape ILLUSION

THIS play on the classic pin- striped shirt tricks the eye into seeing curves where there aren’t any, ideal for those with a slim torso and small bust. Shirt dress, £59, marksand spencer.com Willowy ARMS LENGTHEN your upper arms by opting for long sleeves with a single stripe. It’s an easy way to create a far more contoured shape that gives the illusion of willowy limbs. Sweatshirt, £75, meand em.com; Suede trousers, £425, lkbennett. com

Disguise your HIPS

THIN vertical stripes spread out in opposite directions from a cinched-in waist, making your mid-section look smaller. Red silk dress, £261, intropia.com; Mules, below, £49.99, zara.com; Bracelets, £65 each, pandora.net; Earrings, £49, bimbaylola.com

Fake a WAIST

a bold single stripe draws attention to the narrowest part of your body. To get the slimming effect, just make sure the main colour of your dress is darker than the stripe running through it. Navy maxi dress, was £120, now £60, phaseeight.com; Nude suede shoes, £150, kurtgeiger.com; Necklace, above, £19.99. mango.com