Use your illusion

WORRY not if your New Year resolution to lose a few pounds went awry, because a slimmer silhouette for spring is still possible with zero effort required.

From trousers and skirts to dresses and coats, carefully-placed panels can transform your figure in seconds.

HOURGLASS BODY

Maximise curves that aren't there or minimise lumps and bumps that are with a super-flattering panelled dress.

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Clever use of black panels around the side of the dress create the impression of an hourglass figure.

Either opt for a sporty A-line shape for a looser silhouette or take the plunge with a body-hugging shift dress that clings to your new-found curves.

For a variation on two contrasting colours, look for a dress featuring prominent vertical lines to accentuate your figure in the right places.

WONDER WAIST

No need for a corset with illusionist pieces that cinch your waist in for you.

While side stripes are a must for a leaner silhouette, black panels around the middle will whittle down your waistline in an instant.

Whether it's one solid black panel or criss-cross contrasting lines, the cinching effect will bestow a waist of enviable proportions.

Playing with proportions can have a surprisingly flattering effect too – a peplum top with its large exaggerated frill exaggerates the hips, making your waist looks smaller for added curve appeal.

SLIM PINS

The 2012 Olympics sparked a sports luxe trend that's a winner for flattering thighs.

Look to trousers with go-faster stripes. Skinny or wide, a contrasting panel that runs from waistband to ankle down the side of your leg will create the illusion of longer, slimmer pins worthy of a medal.

Try trousers that sit higher on the waist to eliminate muffin tops, and flat front pleats will flatter hips.

Avoid comparisons with the athletes and complete your side stripe trews look with heels.

TALLER TORSO

Those lacking in stature can gain valuable inches with some clever clothing combinations.

The matchy-matchy trend for trouser and skirt suits has really taken off on the high street, where you can opt for stylish geometric prints or bold block colours.

For ultimate figure flattery look for longer-length blazers tailored to nip in at the waist.

If you're looking for an evening dress, consider a maxi-length option. Any dark colour worn head-to-toe minus frills has a lengthening effect.