Let’s face it. Most of us are nothing like the waif models we see on the catwalk. In fact, according to recent research, 32% of women are obese in the UK, with a quarter not even acknowledging that they are overweight. For those who have come to terms with their body shape, finding the right clothes to make them feel good is the difficult task.

Overweight people can usually be divided into two groups: the pears and the apples. Pears usually have big bottom halves with chunky thighs and wide hips while apples have the opposite – they’re big up top and narrow at the bottom. Whatever size you are there are clothes in most high street stores that will fit.

Underwear should be your first port of call. Bulging bras and unsupportive G-strings will not help hide those lumps and bumps. Big pants should be your first investment. Unflattering they may be, but they do a fantastic job of keeping everything in place. Many women don’t know their actual bra size so it’s worth getting your bust measured so that you can find underwear that is almost made to measure.

Skirts are the real deal for someone with a pear shape. You might feel like going all bohemian but long flowing skirts are not a good look for your body contours. Try and find flattering A-line or calf-length skirts that don’t make you look bigger than you are. Pencil skirts will do the trick for apples but they can also get away with good fitting trousers and jeans. If you’re a pear don’t match short tops with your skirt. Make sure you get something that will cover your hips. Apples will suit smocks and tunics which can strategically hide bulky bits.

Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise – this should be your mantra. Choose bold and big pieces of jewellery and avoid little, understated silver or gold numbers. Big people can carry off bling! What you wear on your feet will accentuate your overall look so make sure that you buy a decent pair of boots if you’re a pear, and invest in some sophisticated wedges or stilettos if you’re an apple. When it comes to clothes, don’t go crazy for colours and avoid horizontal stripes like the plague. Don’t get too down about your size because fashion is for everyone, whatever shape they are!