Tips to ensure a slimming, pulled- together look.

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Color and Fit

No matter what your body shape, there are some fashion "rules" that help everyone look better in their clothes. Follow these 10 basics to "dress thin" -- or simply show off a slim figure.

1. Keep It Monochromatic: If you're wearing the same color from shoulders to feet, it creates the illusion of one, long, unbroken line. That makes you look slimmer and minimizes individual features. Think neutrals: black, camel, cream, dark brown.

2. Just My Size: Anything too big (baggy T-shirts) or too small (tiny tank tops) will make you look larger than you are. You won't fool anyone by cramming yourself into a smaller size or hiding under loose fabric. Buy clothing that actually fits your body.

3. Skim, Not Skin: The fabric of your clothes should skim your curves, but not become a second skin. Stiff fabrics will create lumps and bumps; super-sheer fabrics can highlight a little too much. Look for fabric that drapes and falls in a flattering way.

4. The Perfect Pants: For the most universally flattering style, look for a flat front (gathered waists only make your stomach look fatter), low waist (about an inch or so below your navel -- not hip-huggers) and a slight flare at the bottom (to balance out the width of your hips).

5. The Perfect Skirt: An A-line skirt looks good on everyone, and offers especially good camouflage for big bottoms and pudgy tummies. Keep it knee-length to make your legs look their best.