Before I launch into this topic, I’m going to apologise for using the expression Women of a Certain Age. It always seems very patronising to me. We don’t affix a moniker to men of a certain age, even if they do have changeable body shapes, so why should women be singled out?! Of course, men don’t worry about dressing for your changeable body … or theirs!

But, it’s a fact that, like men, we do acquire malleable bodies. Dressing our changeable bodies can create a conundrum. Sometimes our new and different shapes are not attributable to age.

We’re not all a Pear, an Apple, an Hourglass or even a Rectangle. No no …like Heinz we come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Getting any assistance on the best way to dress stylishly and with chic. for a non-standard body, can be tricksy!

A different body …

Short-waisted and long-legged?

You should wear jackets that reach below the waist, even as far as the hips. Wear fluid fabrics in jackets and dresses and tops to ‘lose’ your waist. Create verticals around the waist and wear straight skirts to just below the knee. Go with straight-leg jeans and trousers!

Long-waisted with short legs

Wear narrow-legged pants to make your legs look longer.  Short cropped jackets or high-waisted styles will shorten your body and remember, skirts are better for you than pants because they hide where your legs actually begin. Also, bare legs or flesh-colour tights; lengthen the legs.

You have a tyre around your middle or thin legs, or perhaps both

Use vertical detailing and shape to lengthen your body. Semi-fitted jackets and tops will give you curves and wearing your tops at the right length will focus attention on your legs.

Flat-chested or have a big bum or perhaps both?

Look for details or accessories on jackets that focus on your waist. Show off your waistline by wearing a fitted or short jacket. Wear small shoulder pads to balance your hips and wear straight or soft flowing pants or skirts.

Big boobs or a small bum, or perhaps both?

Focus attention on your hips with narrow or cropped jackets. Wear verticals above the waist and unstructured jackets that drape. Leaving your jacket open will create vertical lines through the middle of your bust! Wear slim-cut pants to emphasise the length of your legs.

Remember, you can take 5 – 10 years off your age by simply standing straight and walking well: Posture is King! (or in this case, Queen)

And please, whatever shape you’re in: Always wear a well fitted bra.