If you are in your late 30's and beyond, you may have noticed a strange phenomenon - an increase around your middle. Yes, even despite your best intentions and healthier diet and fitness regime. It's the dreaded middle age spread and, sadly, it affects many of us.

Due to our changing hormones, our mid-section seemingly has a mind of its own and its mind says - it's time to fatten up. It happens to the best of us and it doesn't seem to mind what shape we are in - even if we are in the best shape of our life.

The concern (after - how do we get rid of it? - of course), is naturally, how do we dress to combat it? After all, we're not pregnant so we really don't want people to be making that mistake. Hence, the most common, but worst, mistake to make is to wear looser, baggier clothes. Smock tops and the like are not the answer, even though at first they may appear to be.

The trouble with hiding under volumes of material is that it only makes us look bigger - not really what we are trying to achieve.

A change in shape means a change in the way we dress. Instead of huge smock tops try a looser fit that skims to the waist - un-tucked of course - teamed with tailored pants (flat-fronted are best).

Opt for a tailored jacket, left open, with a structured blouse underneath. The nipped in tailoring of the jacket will draw the eye in to give the illusion of a waist.

For dresses, a wrap dress is the designer's answer to nature's problem. The crossover is figure-flattering for all ages. However, the length is what should change in response to your age - and body type. If you've got great legs opt for slightly above the knee - otherwise make sure it falls just below.

Perhaps most importantly, be honest! Don't squeeze yourself into that waisted skirt and pretend that those love handles hanging out over the top can't be seen. If you can see them, so can the rest of the population. If you can't afford new trousers for your changing shape make sure you team them with a structured top or jacket that covers you without clinging. No tight tees or lycra tops. After all, it's about having pride in the way we look.

The final word however is underwear. I've said it before and I'll say it again... and again and again. The way to combat unsightly lumps and bumps under clothes and fix all manner of figure flaws is shapewear. Better still, you don't have to go and purchase a whole new wardrobe. Bonus.

These days new advances in technology have created much lighter weight material - it's more comfortable and still has great hold - so now there's no excuse not to wear it everyday if you need.

Holeproof has a great range that will take your form everyday to evening, but all you really need to do is take a wander around any department store's lingerie floor and you can pick the perfect style for your particular need.

Until next time,

Lee-Anne