WHO cares whether those designer jodphurs look great on the catwalk if they don't look good on you? Whether you want to accentuate your waistline or hide that tummy here are four fail-safe figure flatterers . . . and some suggestions on where to buy the best new-season look for you.

FOR SLIMMING YOUR WAIST

Try a classic shape such as a flared or pencil skirt worn with a fitted top or cinched in at the waist with a wide belt. The top offsets the fuller bottom by bringing attention to the waist, which looks miniscule in comparison.

Get the look:

Although the '50s thing is not so onthe-boil at the moment, the '40s thing is everywhere so you won't have a problem finding a killer pencil skirt and belt. If you are dead-set on finding a good circle skirt try vintage stores such as Jenny Vanders and The Harlequin in Dublin.

SundayTribune 21.10.07

FOR NARROWING YOUR HIPS

Straight dark trousers, worn long, lean and with heels, never go out of fashion. This look instantly slims your hips, drawing attention to the upper part of your outfit which you should keep bright and attentiongrabbing.

Get the look: This season's pussy-bow blouse in a silky purple or red would be a great match for cigarette pants and both items are part of the whole tux-luxe thing that's huge for this season. Try designer brands such as Gucci and Theory (always gorgeous trousers) or highstreet stalwarts French Connection and Ted Baker.

FOR CONCEALING YOUR TUMMY

A nipped-in ruched top or dress that drapes forgivingly over the stomach is the look to go for here. Try items with a high, corseted waist to draw the eye to the rib cage . . . one of the trimmest points on everyone's body . . . and show off slender arms and legs.

Get the look: That whole Grecian thing for the new season is perfect for hiding lumps and bumps around the midriff.

Most shops, from Urban Outfitters to All Saints, will have something to suit.

FOR CREATING CURVES

Just as all black will slim you, a bold pattern can make a boyish figure appear curvy and voluptuous. So if you have a trim little shape you can definitely embrace the whole printed dress look that is huge right now. Tapered tailoring is also great for accentuating busts and necklines and is something you will find in abundance in the shops right now.

Get the look: The hottest prints out there are by Issa, to be found in hip urban boutiques such as Samui in Cork. For tailoring look to Alexander MeQueen and Nicole Fahri or, on the high street, Reiss.