Q. How can I create the illusion of a slim waist without having to diet?
A. When it comes to style – having a tiny waist has suddenly become the new national obsession. Cheryl Cole has a 25-inch waist. She used to have a 29-inch waist, apparently, but was so horrified by its size that she went on a strict diet. Victoria Beckham, at 23 inches, is so tiny that she can fit into the jeans of a seven year-old child. But Dita Von Teese trumps them all: sporting a 21-inch waist normally, with the help of a corset it shrinks to 16 inches - even smaller than the Edwardian ideal of 18 inches.
For centuries, women all over the world have wished for an hourglass figure or a petite waist. The English did it with camisoles, the French had corsets and they all had their own ideas on how to get the smallest of waists. Fashion and entertainment have been best buddies for ages. Therefore, during the era of the voluptuous Marilyn Monroe, women would do anything for that perfect waist and now the hourglass is back - thanks largely to the success of the cult TV show Mad Men, which has spawned a fifties style revival.
So, whether you're updating your look or seeking new pieces for your winter wardrobe, a cinched-in waist is your ticket to super-style. Throw out those baggy summer smocks, dresses for this season are either body-skimming or belted to show off curves to the max. If you have a slightly fuller figure, hunt for clothes that sit a little higher on your torso, just above your actual waist. This slimmer area creates the illusion of a defined waistline. To finish your look, the accessory to reach for is a belt. The best way to wear them is on the natural waistline, accentuating an hourglass figure or suggesting one if you're not so curvy.
The right undergarments can also shave off inches - not to mention nip and tuck you in all the right places to give the illusion of a perfect figure. So wave goodbye to those embarrassing Bridget Jones big knickers because the latest crop of luscious lingerie will give you the hourglass figure you crave! Yes, ladies I’m talking about good old fashioned support underwear. It is back in style and everyone, from Marks & Spencer to the more up market lingerie chains, is getting in on the act. The range is endless - boned bodies and support girdles to simpler slips - all promising to give you a dream body.
For essential tummy support, M&S’s Smooth Control Magic Waist Cincher, €40, performs minor miracles on your waistline and is a brilliant investment for your wardrobe. Also, look out for the underwear brand Wacaol, which does some of the very best support underwear with corsetry, boning, brilliantly shaped to pull you in on thighs, bum, belly or breasts. It doesn’t look very sexy, but it does the job. If your waist is pretty much nonexistent, the Charnos Hourglass Waist Nipper, €35 (figleaves.com) is a godsend. Designed to press you into shape by redistributing excess padding to your hips, it works as a kind of corset without the built-in bustier. Not only is it comfortable to wear, it also creates a soft smooth line, which makes this the perfect choice if you are planning to wear any clingy fabrics such as silk or jersey.
Problem solved.
