A: I know, I know. All you need is an outfit that makes you look thin, gorgeous, sophisticated, successful and cool. I could use one myself.

You don't say what you look like, and that could make a difference. But without knowing if you're tall/short/blonde/freckled/curly-haired/whatever, I have several pieces of advice. First, and most important, wear something you feel totally comfortable in. Anything that's even a tiny bit too tight or makes you feel even a tiny bit like somebody other than yourself, forget it.

Second, think hard: Is there something that, whenever you wear it, people tell you how great you look? Wear it. Is there a color that, whenever you wear it, you're surprised by how good you look in the mirror? Wear that color next to your face.

As for your desire to slim the waist/belly/hips, what usually works for me is easy-fitting (not even a teeny bit tight!!!) black (or really, really dark navy or brown or charcoal or bottle green) pants with some stretch, no pockets, a flat front, and a flat, narrow elastic or drawstring waist. Add a matching, loose, unclingy top, worn out, that hits somewhere between hipbone and top of thigh. Look in the mirror to know exactly what length and shape works best on your body.

For coolth, add a somewhat longer leather jacket. The fashion types say go for color, which is fine if you already have a black leather jacket. If you don't, go with black (or really dark navy, brown, charcoal, eggplant, green). For flattery add a scarf/shawl/stole in your best color slung over your shoulder or wrapped a couple times around the throat.

Wear shoes comfortable enough to stand in for a couple hours, but still sleek looking, maybe boots. Wear your hair the way you usually do, no weird last-minute up-dos. You'll look fabulous.

Patricia McLaughlin is a nationally syndicated fashion columnist.
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