For some reason, summer makes people feel entitled to let all of their bad habits and bad hygiene visible to the world. Just because it is hot in many parts of the world during summer, does not mean let all caution and fashion sense go to the wind. We will say this several times in the article. "Just because they make it in your size does not mean you should buy it."

Now before anyone thinks I am slamming plus sized people, take a deep breath. I am not. In fact, I am one of those plus sized people. Keep yourself from being the object of scrutiny during the summer months by using a few simple principles and some common sense. Oh and if you don't own a decent full-length mirror, go buy one now.

Be HONEST! What is your body shape? Even thin people have parts that should not be enhanced and those that should. Is it time for me to say it already? "Just because they make it in your size does not mean you should buy it."

Arms - are yours toned? Then wear sleeveless and capped sleeves. If there is even the hint of flab, keep it covered. OK, stop whining. If you buy the correct fabric, you won't be hot. Natural fabrics, such as cotton are much cooler than synthetic fabrics. In fact, having your arms constantly exposed to the sun can make you even warmer.

Bust - If you have a large bust, do not accentuate with tops gathered around the bust or with horizontal stripes. If you have a smaller bust, wearing wrap, criss-cross, or gathered tops will make you look a little bigger.

Stomach & Hips - Sigh! Here we go again with those low-rise pants. Please, let me get through one day without seeing flab hanging over a pair of low-rise pants. Wearing low-rise pants and a short shirt with that hint of flab hanging over makes you look ridiculous, not cool. If you want to cover a little tummy bulge, wear a shirt that cuts in under the bust and then flares a little.

Legs & Thighs - Look at the back of your legs. If they are not toned or if you have an excess of cellulite, avoid short shorts.

Legs & Ankles - Pant lengths are crucial here. If your pants are the wrong lengths you will look dumpy, short, like you have all leg or you have chunky ankles. Capris and cropped pants come in all lengths so select one that is flattering to your shape.

So here are the 5 rules:

1. Wear a length sleeve that makes your arms look in proportion.
2. Wear tops that skim the bust to diminish or gather at the bust to enhance.
3. Wear shirts that flatter not make you fatter. The same goes for the rise of pants.
4. Watch the cut of your pants. You don't want to accentuate hips, knees or thighs if those are problem areas.
5. The length and shape of your legs and ankles will determine the length of your pants.

OK, I feel compelled to say it just one more time. "Just because they make it in your size does not mean you should buy it."

On a final note...don't wear sandals and flip flops if you are not going to take care of your feet.

Stay tuned for our next article on bathing suits that flatter not fatten.

Indra Books

Indra Books, owner of ON THE GO 4 U, LLC, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service, is an expert in life management. With a background in fashion, music & the arts, travel, education, technology and management, she brings a unique combination of skills required to provide valuable stress reducing services to her clients. As a former DC Metro commuter, beleaguered by too many "to do" lists and not enough time, Indra understands what her clients need.

Indra is the 2006 Vice President of the International & Concierge Association (ICEA) and give back to the business community that gave her a start in business as the chairperson of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce's Women in Business Alliance (WIBA).

In addtion to providing life management services, Indra writes a monthly e-zine for ON THE GO 4 U, LLC and conducts workshops on wardrobe rejuvenation, entertaining and reprioritizing your life to get the most out of your personal time.