There may not be a quick fix to becoming healthier and fitter but there is a sure way to improve your figure in a matter of minutes. It is a simple matter of underwear.What you wear under you clothes can make or break an outfit.
We've all got bulges we'd rather forget but why draw attention to them by wearing ill-fitting underwear? The new year is a great time to take a critical look at the contents of your lingerie drawer and weed out all the old comfy bras and tumble dryer-shrunk panties and head off to get yourself a brand new figure in the sales!
The Top Half-Amazingly, three quarters of women in the UK are not wearing the correct bra fitting and are unaware as to their accurate measurements. A professional bra fitting should be a must at least once a year, whatever your age, as the size of the breasts can change considerably due to weight loss/gain, pregnancy, and so on.
You should think of buying a good, well-fitting bra as an investment with both present and future benefits. Not only will it help prevent a drooping bust line in the future, but you will also immediately look noticeably slimmer and more in proportion - you might even find that waist you thought had gone forever!
To make sure you have the right size, check that: Your flesh does not bulge over the top of your bra. If it does but feels fine everywhere else, the cup size is too small.Your finger can pass under the band in front. Your bra should be comfortable but not tight, otherwise you need a larger band size.
The middle of your bra lies as flat as possible against your breastbone for a comfortable fit.The back of your bra does not ride up, otherwise the underband may be too big, and you could need a smaller size. Your bra straps are not falling down or digging into your shoulders. If they are, adjust them or use wider straps or try shoulder savers.
Small Bust? - Try a balcony style bra, which can give you an enhanced neckline and a lovely, curvy shape. Half-cup styles also flatter a smaller bust; padding at the sides and under the bust gives maximum lift. Avoid bras that have square-cut bust lines; they'll flatten you even more.
Large Bust? - You need good, up-lifting support, so go for wider shoulder and firmer back straps. Full cups give a better appearance and underwired bras provide better support. Choose smooth, plain styles, without too much lace. Head to somewhere such as Daniel's department store in Windsor for a professional fitting.
The Bottom Half-There is no excuse for visible panty lines (VPL); with so much choice available, every body shape should be able to find a cut and fit that's right for you.To make sure you are keeping those bums and tums under control Buy bigger size panties than you think you will need. This will eliminate VPL by ensuring the elastic doesn't cut in. Also panties are notorious for shrinking in the wash.
Don't be reluctant to try a tummy control panty. You will need to make sure the fit is good and that your flesh does not roll up over the top when you sit down. For those of us who have discovered them, we wouldn't be without our 'magic knickers'!
There are some fabulous all-in-ones around now - they will give you a pain-free (and cheaper!) instant tummy tuck. Try Bravissimo, Debenhams, M&S. You'll be amazed at how svelte you'll look.Body Perfect?There is too much emphasis these days on having the perfect body. Those of you who read my monthly column regularly will know that I am passionate about making the most of what God has given you and loving yourself for who and what you are.
Of course I am all for healthy eating and regular exercise but correct dressing for your body shape can instantly deal with those body bits you'd rather not show off. Here are some common questions/e-mails I get from clients.Q- What can I do to hide my tummy, which has not gone away since I had my children?
Julia says-Please don't worry too much about your tummy; it is a natural female shape. However, avoid too much volume in this area but wearing flat-fronted trousers and skirts (without front pleats, zips and pockets) and go for patterns (not stripes or checks) to help disguise your tummy. A looser fit will be more flattering. Maybe try a dropped belt.
Q- I have large hips and thighs. What should I wear?Julia says- You can wear wide-leg loose trousers to give a balanced appearance; skirts and trousers need to hang straight and not hug your bottom or curve underneath. Fabrics are better for softer and more fluid rather than stiff.
Q- What can I do to minimise my large bust?Julia says: Read my article above and get professionally measured for good supporting and up-lifting bras. Avoid detail over the bust (eg pockets, gathers), always wear open necklines (ie no high necks) and avoid sleeves that finish in line with the fullest part of your bust. Wrap tops are very flattering.
Q- Can I still wear jeans? They seem to make my bottom look big.Julia says Of course you can but avoid jeans with lots of detail on your bottom such as pockets, appliqu's and branding. Bootleg or wider legged styles will be more flattering for you and also go for stretch denim in a darker shade.