Looking good isn't just about following the latest fashions. Developing a classic, personal style which suits your body type is the key to vamping up even the dowdiest image and avoiding those awkward ‘just got out of bed' days. Here's how to fill up your wardrobe with clothes that flatter rather than frighten.

1. Identify your shape
   Most people fit into one of five body classifications - pear, heart, apple, hourglass, and banana - and the first step towards a quick fashion fix is to know your type. If you have a small bust and waist but a larger hip measurement then you are probably pear shaped. Heart shaped women tend to have a large bust with a well defined waist and small hips, while apple shapes have round waists and torsos. Hourglasses have nearly equal bust and hip measurements with a slim waist in between, and finally ‘bananas' tend to have a bust and hips of almost the same size with an undefined waist. You may want to take your measurements to see which category you fit into.
2. What's your aim?
   Once you've identified your shape, the next step is to think about which areas you're keen to flatter and which you want to disguise. For example, banana shapes are often keen to create the illusion of curves, while pear shapes may be keen to hide large hips. Of course, not everybody will want to disguise the supposed ‘flaws' in their figure -  heart shapes, in particular, may be proud of their bust and skeptical about embracing the ‘attention diverting' necklines often prescribed for this body type. The wardrobe you choose will be dependent on your personal preferences as well as your body type.
3. Do your research
   There's a whole lot of information out there on dressing for your body shape, from television programmes to advice books. As an initial guide, banana shapes should go for girly dresses, wraps and waist defining belts which aim to create that sexy hourglass figure. Ruffles, pinched waists and layers are also good bets. Pears should stick to hip skimming skirts, bust-defining tops and shoulder pads, all of which draw attention to and balance out the upper body. Heart shaped women tend to look best in low necklines, bust ruffles and A-line skirts, while apples suit monotone suits and heavier materials. Hourglasses can get away with pretty much anything, although clothes that emphasise your small waist and attractive curves are always a good bet.
4. Get spending
   Once you've identified your body shape, you'll probably want to invest in a whole new wardrobe. Make sure you stick to the golden rules, and don't be swayed by clothes that look gorgeous but wouldn't suit your type. You don't have to spend a fortune buying in bulk - check out high street chains such as New Look for some classic dresses, jeans and a particularly nice range of coats that are perfect for winter on a tight budget. Invest in some classic pieces and then jazz up your look with a range of accessories and seasonal buys. It's the fastest and easiest way to a flattering new wardrobe.