We cannot all be super models weighing 12 pounds. Most of us have to deal with that thing called life, which can do real damage to any diet. If you are a full figured woman like I am, there are ways to enhance yourself with outfits.

Yes, certain outfits can make you look taller and thinner. There are two areas to focus on. The first is the color of the outfits you are wearing. The second, of course, has to do with the actual clothes you choose.

To suggest there are a host of different views on fashion is a minor understatement. When it comes to looking taller and thinner, fortunately, this is not the case. In short, you want to wear clothes that emphasize the vertical over the horizontal.

Okay, our first bit of advice deal with color. The base aspects of your outfit should be monochromatic. Not just any color will do. You want a darker color such as black or charcoal. You can use shades if you wish to mix things up.

You can then add color to the outfit by wearing a colored blazer or sweater over your shoulder. This brings a bit of color into the look, but maintains the vertical lines of the outfit, which maintain the taller and thinner look.

As any woman knows, accessories can make a look. This is also true in this case. Make sure you stay with the vertical theme. An excellent way to do this is to wear a scarf. Go with a long one and let it hang. This will make you look taller and thinner.

Many of us full figured women like to wear larger belts. If you are going for a thinner look, this is not a good idea. The belt acts as a horizontal stripe and breaks the effect of the vertical lines of your outfit. Stick to smaller belts if possible.

Skirts are a take it or leave it proposition. Some women love them and some do not. If you do, there is a simple rule to follow. The skirt should be longer than it is wide.

To this end, your shoes can make a huge difference in your appearance. One inch heals are the best choice if the go naturally with the outfit. The literally make you taller, which is the point and all.

Stripes are a word that can draw hisses from full figured women. In general, they do not make one look more petite. Certain outfits that have thinner vertical stripes, however, can. Horizontal stripes? Forget about them.

Unless you are a waif, you probably want to look taller and thinner. It really is not that hard if you follow these simple tips.