1. Fake it until you make it

If your flesh is looking pale and pasty, get a fake tan to look great for the party season. Somehow golden brown looks slimmer than pale and uninteresting.

2. Have a make-over

Treat yourself to a make-up lesson so your party face looks glamorous and up-to-date, especially if you've been wearing the same tired old make-up for years. The right make-up can take inches off your face and draw all attention to your eyes rather than your size.

3. Beat the bloat

For a few days before any big event avoid alcohol and caffeine, and drink lots of water to flush out toxins. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and eat only small quantities of other carbohydrate foods, keeping to wholegrain rather than white varieties of bread, rice or pasta. If you can afford it, try a body wrap treatment before a special occasion - although the results won't last for long.

4. Get the size right

Whatever you wear make sure it fits. There's nothing more unsightly than a body trying to bulge out of an uncomfortably tight dress. If you can't easily do up a garment then go for a larger size. Better to have a simple outfit of black trousers or long skirt and an evening top than a designer creation that looks less than beautiful on you.

5. Simply does it

Avoid clingy and shiny fabrics, loud prints and bulky details such as gathering, ruffles, puff sleeves and fluffy trimmings which tend to draw unwanted attention to your size.

6. On a budget?

If you can't afford to treat yourself to a new outfit, update last year's little number with some new fun jewelry or an evening bag. Or you could look around the second-hand clothing stores and pick up a bargain. If you have a really big occasion think about hiring a dress, especially if you're in the middle of a weight loss program.

7. Wrap it up

If the tops of your arms are a bit flabby, drape a velvet or satin stole lightly around them for a glam look. You'll feel chique and elegant. Or choose a dress with long sheer sleeves.

8. Under cover

Remember to wear the right undies so that they support you properly and don't show horribly under your outfit. Get fitted for a new bra (especially if you've lost or gained weight recently). Most large department stores have specialist fitters. And look out for the Bridget Jones type magic knickers that keep your tummy and thighs firmly in check. Wear dark sheer pantyhose or stockings rather than lighter shades and avoid chunky shoes which make legs look heavier.

9. Shady lady

Stay away from light colours which tend to add pounds and choose dark shades. If traditional black doesn't suit you try navy or some of the beautiful plummy tones around.

10. Be You

Make the effort to look the best you can for your party, but don't forget that it's your smile, your posture, your confidence and your whole personality that will be remembered, not your dress or your party shoes. So walk tall, smile and go enjoy the party.