Image from shapewearfashionstore.com
The key to looking great in what you wear is knowing your body shape and what flatters your figure. There's no shame in admitting your true body size. There's no point to living in denial of your curves or lack there of or even trying to dress for the shape you wish you had. This is just going to make you look unkept and sloppy, and show your lack of confidence.
Simply knowing your body shape can help you dress accordingly to hide your troubled areas and accentuate your best assets. Banana or rectangle, apple, pear, and hourglass are the four most common body shapes of women. Which shape best describes you?
Banana/rectangle: Your bust and hips are about the same width and there is little definition in your waistline.
Apple/rounded: Your weight is evenly dispersed with a fuller waistline.
Pear/triangle: You carry more weight below your waist and are smaller around the chest and shoulders.
Hourglass: Your bust and hips are about the same width. There is a very distinct definition in your waistline.
Check out Fashion Cents for Your Style and Size for some useful tips on how to dress for your these and other shapes.
