by Elisabeth Knapp

Created on: June 07, 2009

Every woman no matter what their size wants to look good, but imposing rules upon people because of their size is not very inspiring.

The way I like to look at it is: enhancing what is good about yourself, not covering up what is bad. I for one like to think that I have quite good eyes and quite shapely legs. So what do I do? Enhance my eyes with expertly applied make-up and wear skirts as often as I can (remembering that it is only my lower legs that are shapely, and not my gargantuan thighs) so opting for the skirt that is more 'midi' than 'mini'. This is not to say that I will ever ban mini skirts from my wardrobe- I would never say I can't wear something because of my size- so I slip on some slimming black opaque tights and go for it!

As a larger woman, I sometimes look at fashion magazines with a sense of despair. Whichever new fashion trend comes along, you can guarantee they were designed with the more waif-shaped figure in mind, and not for the woman with boobs, an ass and a generous helping of meat on their bones. "Come on Fashion magazine people! Get Real!" I often find myself thinking.

I love fashion, I love looking at clothes and I love the feeling of wearing something new and knowing you look good in it. I think every woman should be able to embrace new trends and not have to shy away from them. (With the exception of Ugg boots- every woman should shy away from Ugg boots). I often take elements from a trend and go that way. For example, pretty floral print tea dresses have been big over the last year , so bearing in mind that a tea dress could end up looking like a tea tent, I opted for a floral print blouse instead. Also scarves and handbags are a great way of adding on trend colours or styles.

Fashion should be fun not scary. Shopping is one of the true joys of life! So, for those who hate fashion rules, and particularly fashion DON'Ts, here are some fashion DOs:

DO wear what you want!

DO embrace new trends

DO experiment with new colours (black is my best friend, but you'll amazed how a bright colour that suits you can really boost your confidence)

DO invest in the classics that will suit everybody: a good pair of black trousers, some well cut, flattering jeans

DO listen to compliments.. if someone says that a colour/style suits you, stick with it!

DO remember that whatever your size.. shoes and handbags will always fit you (and diamonds)

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