How can we approach this subject of dress-image with freedom to express ourselves? Well let's put first things first: Simplicity should be our aim, with traditional good taste while being contemporary in spirit. Simplicity is a word that has been used by artists for centuries and remains a principle of primary importance. Simplicity in a work of art is uncomplicated, defined and reduced to the fewest possible lines, shapes and colors. These elements are necessary for a design to communicate to the observer at first glance. Isn't this our goal? We too want to communicate at first glance

A rule of thumb that applies to good design, is one to which no more can be added, and at the same time, one to which nothing can be taken away without leaving an emptiness or a feeling of incompleteness. The well-dressed woman is aware of this rule in every look she creates. Stand before the mirror and give yourself the test! How does your Image rate?

Bare Facts

Body! Line! Shape! Silhouette! Geometry is in! Shape is now! Line is new! What is your shape? What shape are you in? Are you afraid to look? Don't worry help is on the way!

Most of us are critical of our bodies. We invent imaginary faults and exaggerate real ones. We rarely accept ourselves happily for what we are. We diet, exercise and worry. Worry no more!

Aristotle once said, "Man, know thyself!" The well-dressed woman knows who she is and where she is going. She is aware of what she has to work with and what not! What about you? Take inventory of yourself. Let's get the facts, the bare facts. Then we can produce that illusion: the illusion of real proportions.

There is one simple way we can improve our appearance instantly: we can choose clothes designed to diminish our figure problems. We can select clothes that enhance. We can learn to understand and use the tools of designers: lines, color, shape, and texture. These help to create the illusion of a well-proportioned figure.

Few of us see ourselves objectively, we often focus on the wrong problem. To find your true shape, stand before a full length mirror in bra and panties. Let someone outline around your reflection with a crayon. Now, study yourself carefully. Do not be self-conscious. Very few women have perfect proportions, not even top fashion models. They learned early in life how to emphasize their assets and obscure their less perfect features.

Analyze what you see. Are your shoulders slightly wider than your hips? Is your waist narrow enough to compliment both? Here is a formula to your ideal proportions: