Today’s magazines gain a fair share of readers by showing actual images rather than photographs. The ultra-thin, ultra-tall woman is something of an anomaly, and yet serves as the foundation for our standard of beauty. Even these women need the tips, tricks and skills of an experienced photo shop technician. We see these size 4 women on magazine covers wearing shorts and heels giving the illusion of sleek, slender legs that last forever.

Reality check: The average size for an American woman is size 14. The magic number that happens to be the starting number for plus-size clothing. So let’s face it, women have curves, a lot of them and the curves are STUNNING. The key is really knowing how to wear them.

Being plus size does not refer to height. So if you are a short woman, it might seem counterintuitive to wear a short skirt. Let’s be honest, many fat women love to deposit around their upper thighs. It is the dreaded place where cellulite “grows”. It is the place where you will most want to cover yourself. But a short skirt may work for you. Listen to me, keep reading. Showing a bit of leg lengthens it. I’m only talking about 2-3 inches above the knee. It makes you, the woman, appear taller, and emphasizes the lower, narrower (it’s okay to show) part of the leg. Being plus size, the temptation is to cover up, but if a woman wears a long skirt (knee length or below), everything is covered except for the calf muscle. She makes you look shorter and probably heavier than you really are. This advice is even more appropriate for the tall or average height woman. If you have them, flaunt it. There’s nothing wrong with a little leg.

Another misconception, tall women cannot wear heels. Anyone can wear heels. High and low equally. The only true requirement is trust. If you decide to wear heels, wear them well by staying upright. Stooping undermines the poise and elegance that your shoes convey. Confidence and posture aside, make sure you are comfortable. A grimacing face is a paradoxical accessory. If you can’t with a stiletto, finish off your outfit with a comfortable wedge. They look good with almost anything.

Brighten up your elegant short skirt and heels with a shirt or jacket with a tapered waist. You have to show that you really have a waist. A boxy shirt does exactly that, it creates a boxy shape. It hides not only curvaceous breasts but also rear ones. It hides all the parts that make you a woman and there is nothing sexy or elegant about it. Highlight your attributes using styles that show or complement your proportions.

No matter what your size, you will always look stylish if you dress in the styles that best suit your body type:

• pear shaped: Heavier in the lower half? Wear dresses that skim the bottom without sticking. An afternoon dress is modern and flattering.
• apple body: More weight in the middle? Avoid clinging. Stick to a loose-fitting top and short skirt to make it work.
• Hourglass: Proportionally balanced bust and hips? A cute V-neck (not too low) cinched belt and flared skirt to bring out your inner Marilyn.
• Baby Botticelli: Voluptuous body, but not as defined as the hourglass? The wrap dress flatters every curve.
• Childish: The modern retro flapper dress is perfect for you!
• Soccer Legacy: Short skirts always work for you or asymmetrical draped dresses that also draw eyes to your upper body.
• Torso shorts: 5’1 or 6’1 a short torso can be a problem, but it doesn’t have to be an A-line dress that works for you flirty.
• Swimmer shoulders: You can work the blazers, but when it’s hot, show off that neckline with a dress with a peplum skirt. The wider width at the hips adds balance to the proportions.
• Carrot Legacy: Show off those pretty ankles with a midi dress that is not too tight

No matter what the magazines try to portray, the plus size woman is the woman of today. Don’t hide the fact that you’re sexy. You are vibrant and, yes, you have the confidence to show it all. Burn the moo. He wears short skirts and heels with all the class and style that encompasses every big part of you. You’re a woman. Hear his ROAR.