Many High Street stores stop at size 16, but most Debenhams collections go up to a 22 with collections like Gorgeous to size 26 and Ann Harvey to size 28. The key to shopping for your shape is in buying the right size and being confident enough to ditch baggy and oversized clothing.

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ON TOP

If you have a heavier bust, go for V-neck tops and avoid polo-necks like the plague - they can create an expanse of 'boob' - not a good look! When choosing patterns, usually the smaller the print, the smaller you'll look... but an oversized print detail can work wonders too.

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TROUSERS

As far as trousers go, a wide leg is always going to be the most flattering cut - it gives you a similar width at the bottom of your figure as the top creating a column-like effect which visually melts away the lbs.

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DRESSES TO IMPRESS

Wrap dresses are a great choice for curvier women. They show off the waist and bust, especially good if these are your best assets. A fitted jacket over a dress serves as a great shape enhancer. Look out for 'illusion' dresses - these have a colour in the centre and darker panels at the edge making you look slimmer than you are!

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JEANS GENIUS

When buying jeans, opt for a bootcut style. In the same way that wide leg trousers elongate the figure, the trusty bootcut jean also balances your shape. Don't be put off by straight or skinny leg jeans though, in winter simply add a pair of slouchy boots to cheat the appearance of equal width on the bottom and top halves.

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COATS & JACKETS

I can't stress enough how important it is to have a 1 button blazer in your capsule wardrobe. They're brilliant at dressing up an outfit, elongating your shape and creating a waist. Go for a longer 'boyfriend' style and it'll also hide your bottom. For outerwear, avoid anything too bulky. A belt detail can fabulously figure-flattering too.

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ACCESSORIES

You can get away with statement jewellery, belts and oversized bags - from a proportion point of view it will make you look smaller. If you don't have much of a waist then the waist belt is a great way to get an hourglass shape. If already an hourglass, then be subtle and don't tighten your belt too much - your hips could end up looking bigger.

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SHOES

If you need them, Debenhams has a great selection of wide fitting shoes so you don't have to compromise on style for a great fit. We all know that horizontal stripes are best avoided and the same can be said for the lines created by footwear. An ankle strap or ankle boot worn with a skirt can take 3 inches off your height and add 3 inches to your waist.

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LINGERIE

Debenhams lingerie department is world class with every type of shape enhancer known to fashion. Start from the inside-out when dressing and get fitted for a bra regularly by one of the in-store experts to ensure you're wearing the perfect size. You'll stand taller, look slimmer and your confidence will know no bounds.

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STYLE ICON: DAYTIME

Queen Latifah gets it right every time. She's a big fan of tailoring often seen sporting a tux or masculine tailoring. Here she's gone for a softer option - just check out those lines lengthening that fabulous figure of hers. She's also wearing slouchy boots with her denim - proof that curvier women can wear skinny jeans.

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STYLE ICON: EVENING

Glee star Amber Riley is already a red-carpet regular and famous for breaking the style rules while proving curvy girls can shine. Even though this dress has a high neckline, the solid colour and stunning waist detailing scream Hollywood glamour but in a way real women can copy.

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