Jackets

The right jacket can be very flattering to you as well as 'making' an outfit. Conversely, the wrong jacket can emphasise figure faults and ruin an ensemble.

Remember, it's virtually impossible to buy a perfectly fitting jacket off the peg (ditto for most items actually) so please budget for alterations.

Here's some advice on how to choose the right length for you.

SHORT JACKETS: end in line with your waist or slightly below. They will make you look taller BUT will also highlight any extra weight you may be carrying around your middle.


MEDIUM JACKETS: end just below the widest part of your hips which they'll emphasis (avoid if you are a triangle / pear shape)

LONG JACKETS: Measure the distance from the top of your shoulder to the floor (take off your shoes when measuring). Now halve it. This is your personal long-jacket length ensuring your body looks in proportion. (NB for easy reference, note where this is on your body eg end of your little finger or take a tape measure with you when shopping.)

EXTRA LONG JACKETS: suit taller women (over 1.65m or 5'6"). They work best with slim pants and short to knee length skirts (definitely not long skirts - they'll mess up your proportions). I love this look but I'm too short to wear it!)

Choose a jacket that fits your shoulders (avoiding expensive shoulder alterations) and skims your waist (a semi-tailored fit is universally flattering).

Sleeve length is important; they should end just below your wrist bone (if they end at the widest part of your hand they make your hands AND hips look wider.)