Now that we know how to dress age appropriately, I think it’s time to discuss another fashion blunder: How to dress for your size.

I know that I can’t squeeze into a size 0 dress, so why would I struggle with it? A better question is, why are so many women determined to wear the wrong size? Are they in denial? I have some plus size friends that dress very well for their size and it’s refreshing to see these ladies accept that they can’t wear a size 6, and instead wear the appropriate size while still looking fashionable and chic.

The thing to remember is that not all brands use the same sizing standards. European women are different from Asian women and American women. Have you noticed that one store says you’re a size 9 and then you head next door only to find out you lost two dress sizes? That must have been a long walk!

Being a larger size doesn’t mean that you are not able to wear any of the latest fashions, or that you have to rush to a plastic surgeon for some lipo and a tummy tuck. While you may want to buy extra loose clothing to hide your size, try finding a dress that flatters your curves instead. Getting something that’s a size (or two) smaller will only make you look bigger. Many stores now offer a variety of plus sizes for most of their newest lines.

On the other side, I also see women that are very thin and think this means that they can get away with anything. Being thin doesn’t mean that you should be wearing the smallest article of clothing you can find. Look for the same great top, bottom or dress in your size. If you find it somewhere else that says it’s the same size yet doesn’t seem to fit quite right, look for one that will. You don’t want to look like you’ve been wearing it since you were 10 years old. Even the thinnest women can get the dreaded “muffin top” when wearing jeans that aren’t the right size.

If you’re unhappy with what the tag states, tear it out! That’s what I do when I find something in a size I don’t particularly love. I’d rather look fabulous in a size 7 than uncomfortable in a size 5, even if that’s what all my other clothes say.

Photo credits: about.com and sfgate.com