STYLE IT OUT!
We’ve got solutions for your fashion conundrums, says Fashion Editor Michelle Nightingale
Q
I’m constantly hot and then cold, so I have to wear loads of layers and end up looking wider than I am. Can you help me layer without looking lumpy?
Julie Stephenson, Dorchester Yours says: The key to layering without bulk, is to start with closefitting light layers and work up to chunkier pieces.
A light roll-neck in a neutral colour is a good starting point that you can remove if needed. Finish with a chunky jumper or cardigan, again in a neutral shade, that you can team with any look. Here are our top three layering must-haves…
Q
I’m 6ft and struggle to find fashion for my height, any suggestions?
Lizzie Ryan, Norfolk Yours says: If you’re tall you’ve probably found the high street isn’t always great at catering for your height. Here are our top three brands for long-legged lovelies…
NEXT We love how Next covers pretty much every shape and size and the brand offers a good tall range aimed at those 5ft 10 and over in sizes 8-20.
NEW LOOK If you’re on a budget, then New Look’s tall range is well worth a look. Featuring affordable knits, blouses, skirts and great value jeans, the only downside is that while some stores do include products from the range, you’ll find most of it online.
LONG TALL SALLY Although a little pricier, Long Tall Sally is a leader in the field of tall fashion and the brand’s range of denim is unbeatable. You’ll find jeans in sizes 8-20 and with 34-38in leg lengths available. They also run regular jeans offers, with extra discounts when you buy more than one pair.
Q
I have a special occasion coming up and have found the perfect dress, but it doesn’t have sleeves! Can you suggest anything to cover my arms without covering the dress?
Jean Hill, Boston Yours says: These clever underdress sleeves from Cami Confidential might be the perfect solution! Choose from a selection of styles, sleeve lengths, materials and shades to complement your dress.
Q
My waist seems to have disappeared! How can I get my shape back?
Pam Lowe, Canterbury
Yours says: It’s scientifically proven that as we get older our metabolism slows, meaning we burn less energy and store more fat – particularly around the middle. Aside from exercise and eating healthily, there are a few clever style choices you can make to help regain your waist. Choose waist-cinching styles like nipped in jackets, peplum tops, dresses that belt at the waist and slimming vertical stripes. Higher-waisted jeans will hold in your tummy and choose slimming dark denim with a little stretch for the perfect fit. For special occasions waist-cinching underwear will give you a smoother silhouette and an extra confidence boost.
Lizzie wears: Dress, £45, 6-22, Next
Q
Can you suggest any plus-size ranges that aren’t frumpy? Catharine Deane, Amersham Yours says: Here are our favourite brands for curvy collections that are stylish and flattering…
YOURS CLOTHING (not connected to the magazine) features gorgeous fashion from practical daywear to perfect partywear in sizes 16-36 as standard and with a selection of items up to a size 40.
JD WILLIAMS has a main fashion range available in sizes 10-26 and you’ll also find lots of styles that go up to a size 34 – including some great-value budget buys. features catwalk-inspired styles at high street prices. You’ll find gorgeous dresses with sleeves, figure-flattering denim in sizes 14-28 (or up to size
30 in some styles) and much, much more.