THE A SHAPE

Shoulders and waist rather narrow, hips, buttocks and thighs rather wide.

When you think about tops, think layers. As you have a slender upper body, your instinct might be to show it off with skinny fit shirts and tops, but this visually throws off your balance making your bottom half look bigger than it is.

Creating balance for your shape is all about filling out your upper half, not making it look even smaller.

A cardigan in a fine knit will add lightweight volume. For cooler weather, try jackets that stop just above the hip. Tailored styles work well too, as they emphasise your upper body.

Three-quarter length sleeves, wide scoop necks, and one-shoulder tops all look great on you although with your petite upper body, all sleeve styles look good on you, same with necklines. When it comes to fits, A-line and flared cuts which fall below your hips do a superb job of highlighting your small top half, while flattering your bottom.

Bootcut styles are best trouser-wise. The slight flare helps to balance out curves, especially if you wear them with a heel to give your legs a little length. Go for dark, medium rise jeans with simple stitching and pockets in the back. If you have small knees and calves, slim fit styles also work well paired with long line tops.

For skirts and dresses, opt for classic A-line shapes that swirl flatteringly around the body. Think flowing, not clinging.

Fit and flare dresses which nip you in at the waist and skim over your hips and thighs also complement your figure.