....hide a large tummy

I am an advocate of the French way of dressing - and that is slim! It not only makes overeating uncomfortable, but it shows off the curves you have. By contrast, dressing in loose, oversized clothing will highlight, not hide a problem area. You need clothes that are slim fitting, but not tight. Don't wear tops that button through. They are guaranteed to gape where they shouldn't. Instead go for wrap styles that open up the face and neck. These are flattering to almost everybody. Other tricks include drawing attention to areas of the body that you like - if its your ankles, always wear fabulous shoes, hair, make sure it's always cut and coloured etc. The other thing is if your aim is to hide your tummy, you need the right underwear - try control briefs and the right trousers. Never go for a wide or skinny leg. Instead stick with a very neutral boot leg trouser which ensure the proportions will be right.