Latest fashion: Winter 2009

This month I’m teaming up with Next to offer the latest fashion for winter 2009.

There are currently some great styles in the shops but the question is are they right for your body shape?

And how do you know which ones to buy and which to avoid!

You need the latest fashion advice…

Firstly, get yourself armed with over 100 body shape fashion tips with images, to help you discover the secrets of how to dress to suit your body - and also find out what to avoid!

Start 2009 with a new found knowledge that will last you for many years and will work with your existing wardrobe, or when buying something new…

No more second thoughts when you get home – step out with confidence, knowing that what you are wearing is right for you.

Clothes are there to flatter you whatever your size and shape, it’s simply a matter of knowing which will suit - read more…

Happy New Year everyone, now let’s answer some of your latest fashion dilemmas with a few solutions from Next…

Question: “Dear Caryn
I am tall and slender, size 8 with no hips or waist and a cup size AA. I am desperate to find clothes that will flatter me and give me shape. I have tried layering but I end up looking more shapeless. "
Sam

Hi Sam
Go for all over big and bold prints - plenty around at the moment. They will help to create a curvier silhouette. Belts are a good choice too as they will bring in your waist and create more definition. I have written a tall and slender e-book which has loads more tips in it and will revolutionise the way you see your body. Enjoy.

Black And White Printed Shift Dress
Sizes 6-22
£38
www.next.co.uk

If you want to know exactly what to wear to flatter your body shape, then treat yourself to an e-book specially written for you by me. This is fashion advice that will last you a lifetime and save you money (you’ll never impulse buy again) and there are 19 different body shapes to choose from. One of them is just right for you.

Question: “Hi Caryn
I am starting a job in a PR office where everyone is very stylish. I’m generally curvy with slightly larger hips. Can you suggest a smart suit that would be flattering and not too boring? "
Rose

Hi Rose
Suits never have to be boring. Go for a single breasted style and ideally one that is ¾ to show off your slim wrists.

I have found a jacket that also has a fishtail effect from just under the waist, which will slim your hips down. Pencil skirts are also a must to try. A-line are good too but pencil are much more appealing as they taper in to give a slim effect.

Finally show your confident side by choosing a bright colour, which you can wear with thick black opaque tights and a dark top and shoe to tone down the overall look. I have also written an e-book for pear shaped figures, which will give you loads of hip minimising tricks, why not treat yourself

Pink Textured Jacket
£60
Sizes 6-22
www.next.co.uk

If you want to know exactly what to wear to flatter your body shape, then treat yourself to an e-book specially written for you by me. This is fashion advice that will last you a lifetime and save you money (you’ll never impulse buy again) and there are 19 different body shapes to choose from. One of them is just right for you

Question: "Dear Caryn
I am bottom heavy and have brought a pair of dark coloured wide legged trousers that you suggested in the e-book I purchased last month from your website.

Can you recommend a top that I can wear with them? I don't want anything fitted or tight as I have love handles (currently on a diet) so shirts are a no."
Tina

Hi Tina,
You want to avoid any volume on your top half e.g. balloon style tops, excess details such as frills and pleats. Instead go for a low neckline to show off the slim part of your body and add definition. Choose a blouse or top that is also cut straight down or has a slight a-line. One with a print will also help to distract from your stomach area.

Signature Gold Leaf Print Silk Top
Sizes 6-22
£38
www.next.co.uk

If you want to know exactly what to wear to flatter your body shape, then treat yourself to an e-book specially written for you by me. This is fashion advice that will last you a lifetime and save you money (you’ll never impulse buy again) and there are 19 different body shapes to choose from. One of them is just right for you

Question. “Hi Caryn
I am a typical pear shape, size 14 top and 16 bottom and want to know how to wear a pretty floral dress that I have got as a present from my husband. It's gorgeous but I am worried that all my lumps and bumps show in it. "
Christine

Hi Christine,
Your dress sounds ideal for the 40's trend that is fashionable this season. I would layer it with a long knitted cardigan, one that you can tie around the waist. Like the one I have featured below.

Make sure it's not too long e.g. maxi length. Mid length and short sleeves will mean that your dress still is shown off. It also means you will feel extremely comfortable and will cover your curves.

Finish off the look with long boots and opaque tights. I have written an e-book, which will help you understand lots of styling tricks for a pear shaped body, why not treat yourself!

Teal Chunky Wrap
Sizes XS-XL
£40
www.next.co.uk

If you want to know exactly what to wear to flatter your body shape, then treat yourself to an e-book specially written for you by me. This is fashion advice that will last you a lifetime and save you money (you’ll never impulse buy again) and there are 19 different body shapes to choose from. One of them is just right for you

Question. "Hi Caryn
I plan to beat the January blues and credit crunch moans, with a holiday in the sun. Can you recommend or have you seen any beachwear that I can buy at this time of year to cover up my stomach and flabby arms?"
Tina

Hi Tina
Take a look at the Next catalogue that offers beachwear all year round. Check out the tunic style top shown below. The bell arms are great for tops of arms and the dark print over the stomach area will act as a distraction and sliming aid.

It can also be worn over jeans and with a camie top for the evening. Two in one so a great buy!

Magenta Border Print KaftanSizes 6-22
£22
www.next.co.uk

If you want to know exactly what to wear to flatter your body shape, then treat yourself to an e-book specially written for you by me. This is fashion advice that will last you a lifetime and save you money (you’ll never impulse buy again) and there are 19 different body shapes to choose from. One of them is just right for you

That’s all for this month. Don’t forget to check ‘Ask Caryn’ where there are further questions answered this month and of course the ‘Ask Caryn archive’ where one of the questions answered might just be the solution you are looking for.

Don’t forget our shopping mall features petite, fuller, standard and tall sections with retailers who will provide the right clothes to fit your body shape.

And if you want to know how to build your wardrobe this season and which key garments I’m recommending, then subscribe to my newsletter so I can talk to you exclusively and tell you about my month in fashion, and you can reply to me!

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