Size matters! Are you trying to squeeze into clothes that are just a little bit too tight? Although it’s hard to consider going up a size, if you’re straining at the seams for the sake of being a certain "size," all you’re achieving is an uncomfortable feeling and an over-stuffed appearance. Going up a size takes the pressure off and can make you appear to be slimmer than you are.

Mono-chromo! If you wear the same color from shoulders to feet, it gives the illusion of length to your body. You can add colorful jewelry or scarves for a dash of color.

An A-line skirt is flattering to all body types. It’s a great camouflage for tummies, rear ends and hips! Opt for styles without a waistband. Choose mostly dark or muted colors. Look for styles with vertical details like a vertical pleat or stitching. These features will elongate your silhouette. Tone hose and shoes to match the skirt. Avoid pleats, drastic flare, flap or patch pockets, bias cuts or trims.

The perfect pants: For the most universally flattering cut, look for pants with a flat front. A gathered waist only calls attention to your mid-line. Choose a waistband that hits about an inch below your navel. (Unless there is no spillage over the waist band, resist the urge to wear hip-huggers!) A slight flare at the bottom will balance out your waist-line. Dark colors can look more slimming.

The Jacket: The Wardrobe Mainstay: A jacket should sit straight on the shoulders without drag or pull. Any pull or pressure across the shoulders means the jacket is too small. If you can’t reach forward or raise your hands over your head without causing pressure in the chest, try the next size up. Lapels should sit flat against the body without gaping. The body of the jacket should fit without clinging or bagging. A fit that’s too snug makes horizontal lines across the back, pulls at the hips or opens the back vents.

The Universal Cool of Jeans: The popularity of jeans never wains. Choose a heavier weight denim (basic Levis are 12 to14 ounces.) Lighter-weight fabrics reveal bulges. The straight-leg jean is the most versatile cut, but a slightly flared boot-cut is more flattering to most figures. The waist band should sit comfortably without digging into your skin. If you opt for hip-huggers, be sure to sit down in them to be sure your behind stays covered. Pockets that hit in the middle of each bun are minimizing to the rear-view.

After all of my research on this subject, I’m still convinced that in the end, our first impression is usually right on target. If you have to ask, "Does this make my butt look big," you probably already know the answer. When in doubt, trust your inner fashion critic’s first response.