Top 10 tips to Look Great at Christmas Parties whatever your
Size
1. Fake it until you make it
If your flesh is looking pale and pasty, get a fake tan to look
great for the party season. Somehow golden brown looks slimmer
than pale and uninteresting.
2. Have a make-over
Treat yourself to a make-up lesson so your party face looks
glamorous and up-to-date, especially if you've been wearing the
same tired old make-up for years. The right make-up can take
inches off your face and draw all attention to your eyes rather
than your size.
3. Beat the bloat
For a few days before any big event avoid alcohol and caffeine,
and drink lots of water to flush out toxins. Eat lots of fresh
fruit and vegetables and eat only small quantities of other
carbohydrate foods, keeping to wholegrain rather than white
varieties of bread, rice or pasta. If you can afford it, try a
body wrap treatment before a special occasion - although the
results won't last for long.
4. Get the size right
Whatever you wear make sure it fits. There's nothing more
unsightly than a body trying to bulge out of an uncomfortably
tight dress. If you can't easily do up a garment then go for a
larger size. Better to have a simple outfit of black trousers or
long skirt and an evening top than a designer creation that
looks less than beautiful on you.
5. Simply does it
Avoid clingy and shiny fabrics, loud prints and bulky details
such as gathering, ruffles, puff sleeves and fluffy trimmings
which tend to draw unwanted attention to your size.
6. On a budget?
If you can't afford to treat yourself to a new outfit, update
last year's little number with some new fun jewelry or an
evening bag. Or you could look around the second-hand clothing
stores and pick up a bargain. If you have a really big occasion
think about hiring a dress, especially if you're in the middle
of a weight loss program.
7. Wrap it up
If the tops of your arms are a bit flabby, drape a velvet or
satin stole lightly around them for a glam look. You'll feel
chique and elegant. Or choose a dress with long sheer sleeves.
8. Under cover
Remember to wear the right undies so that they support you
properly and don't show horribly under your outfit. Get fitted
for a new bra (especially if you've lost or gained weight
recently). Most large department stores have specialist fitters.
And look out for the Bridget Jones type magic knickers that keep
your tummy and thighs firmly in check. Wear dark sheer pantyhose
or stockings rather than lighter shades and avoid chunky shoes
which make legs look heavier.
9. Shady lady
Stay away from light colours which tend to add pounds and choose
dark shades. If traditional black doesn't suit you try navy or
some of the beautiful plummy tones around.
10. Be You
Make the effort to look the best you can for your party, but
don't forget that it's your smile, your posture, your confidence
and your whole personality that will be remembered, not your
dress or your party shoes. So walk tall, smile and go enjoy the
party.
Copyright 2005, Janice Elizabeth Small