‘How do I look?’

Perhaps no other question has been asked by women all over the world since the dawn of Eve. And woe to the man who responds with a critical appraisal — or worse, indifference. For no matter how modest, how non-descript, how conservative, how low-profile a woman may be, she will always want to look her best.  And wise is the lady who recognizes the value of reinventing her style as the seasons pass.  So, for those who are hoping to give that tired old look a shot in the arm, consider these sensible suggestions from style experts Sam Saboura and Leah Feldon.

Real style

If there’s anyone who knows about style, it’s Sam Saboura. As the breakout star and style host of ABC’s hit series Extreme Makeover, he has appeared as the fashion and style expert on numerous entertainment, news and awards programs, and his sought-after advice regularly appears in national publications. He is also a personal stylist for celebrities in the film, television and music industries.

In his book Real Style, Saboura encourages all women to discover and embrace their own particular styles. 

Because Saboura believes that “real style is about making choices that work for your figure and your personality,” he runs through the different body types and recommends ways to enhance assets or camouflage defects. 

For example, a pear shaped figure, which is smaller on the top and wider on the bottom, would do well to highlight the upper body with bright colors, proportional prints and sexy necklines and minimize the lower half with simple, dark and solid bottoms. On the other hand, for the apple who has a rounded figure, fuller bust, heavier arms and shapely lower legs, showing off lots of legs and cleavage could do wonders. The tall and slender willow are the lucky ones who can wear almost anything; but they should try separates to cut their long frame in half. The hourglass has a curvy figure with a full bust, small waist and full bottom so fitted clothing that hug their curves are a good choice. The rectangle whose shoulders, waist and hips are all about the same width thus giving a boyish look, can opt for softer lines for a gentler look. The diamond with wide shoulders and a large bust with narrow hips and killer legs should focus on the lower half of the body. And the half-pint with a petite frame should keep things slim on the bottom half.

Saboura also gives helpful pointers regarding accessories, dressing for the workplace, evening and events, cleaning out and revitalizing one’s closet, and even mastering the art of shopping. And after adopting the methods he suggested in his book, Saboura confidently states: “Some women were born with great style. And now, no one will know that you weren’t.”

Does this make me look fat?

Rare is the woman who thinks she is actually as thin as she looks. Reed-thin models are known to starve themselves to look as gaunt as the next waif. To maintain their “hot” status, pretty young 20-somethings have binged and purged and gone the road of eating disorders. Those who are not getting any younger valiantly attempt to stave off age and time by more invasive procedures.  But looking slim and svelte need not be such a troublesome and painful process. Whether on the way to losing those extra pounds or big boned plus size and loving it, hiding the obvious can be fun and creative. 

By this premise, Leah Feldon answers her book’s question: Does this make me look fat?

For starters, Feldon gives her top 10 reasons for camouflage chic:

1. We all have a little something to hide.

2. This is the age of svelte.

3. Unlike surgery, camouflage doesn’t hurt.

4. Camouflage chic helps boost confidence.

5. First impressions do count.

6. Your clothes talk — and loudly!

7. Because you might be vertically challenged.

8. Because you might be a full-figured gal.

9. Yikes! Bat wings, belly rolls, banana rolls and thunder thighs.

10. Camouflage chic — because you can!

Feldon then proceeds with the definitive rules of camouflage chic, common dressing and styling mistakes women make, and onwards to finding other ways to look thin. But ultimately, Feldon encourages the reader by saying: “Personal style is the perfect blending of your special qualities with the clothes you choose. Take time to recognize, acknowledge and cultivate your less tangible assets. Don’t overlook the sterling qualities that make you unique.  Own them. Let them shine.”

(Both titles are available at Fully Booked.

For more information, log on to www.fullybookedonline.com)