I love my sweatpants dearly. I am in a full-fledged romance with them. They are the most comfortable and treacherous piece of clothing I own. They don't care what I look like, nor do they care if I just downed an entire pint of Ben and Jerry's. It's simple: They love every inch of me. However, it could easily be said that if I wore them every day, I'd probably never realize — nor care — if I gained 10, 15 or even 20 pounds. It takes a lot of self-restraint, but luckily enough, I haven't fallen for that trap, and there's one particular reason why. It's just that more often than not, the sights that I see while walking on campus nearly persuade me to take the same approach as Oedipus and gouge my eyes out. It's atrocious what some people think they can get away with wearing, whether it be sweats or not. (Hell, not even just get away with but actually have lost all sanity, and think they look presentable.) We all have our moments, our faux pas and fashion disasters — we wouldn't be human if we didn't. However, the time has come to talk about our bodies — not in the blushing manner we developed in health class during high school — but more along the lines of coming to terms with what we look like. People come in all shapes and sizes; we know that. Ranging from petite, to tall and slender, to curvaceous, body shapes should be represented proudly and in their finest form. This is why it is absolutely essential to allow your clothes to do the job for you. So here is my plea to you: Learn what works. Here are just a few tricks of the trade to help dress for your frame. Trends come and go with each season, each introducing numerous new styles providing guidelines for a modern look. I like to look at a trend as part of a popularity competition. By definition in the fashion world, it's what has become the new fixation among the masses. It's key to understand that some hip looks aren't always the most flattering. Just because it walked the runway on a thin model doesn't mean it's going to lay the same way on most healthy bodies. Please also understand the concept that just because something is trendy does not mean you need to wear it. Just think about the revival of the skinny jean. Some adore it, some loathe it, but really, those feelings are centered on whether one can actually wear it. The skinny jean is difficult because it places a greater emphasis on the hips and thighs, which are viewed as problem areas by some women. If you have gorgeous gams, this style allows you to flaunt them, especially if paired with a sky-high heel. Otherwise, more often than not, it makes you look like a tree stump. It's always a good idea to place an emphasis on elongating the body. When it comes to jeans, having the right fit and wash can make all the difference. Focusing on the fit, stretch jeans are always reliable for giving a better shape and quite a bit more comfort. There is nothing like a broken-in pair of jeans, and with a little bit more elasticity, stretch jeans can really go a long way. If you opt for a more relaxed fit, make sure they're not too baggy so you don't lose all shape. With the many different kinds of cuts, boot-cut and flared jeans give the most idealized long and lean shape. Also, really, let's face it: The low-rise jeans have got to go. Even on the tiniest of girls, low-rise jeans are unflattering in two specific ways: one being the infamous "muffin top" effect and the other being the plumber's crack. I don't care who you are, what size you are or whether you own no other pants, the people of the world do not need to see everything you possibly have to offer. That being vented, it's important to note that the jean wash plays a dominant role alongside the fit. If you're looking to slim your legs, always choose a darker wash jean. Dark washes are the most flattering, while lighter washes give the illusion of making the legs look bigger than they are. On top of getting the correct fit and wash, the length of the jean should also be proportionate. Usually, the hem of the pant should cover most of the shoe. So when you are buying pants, factor in what type of shoe you'll most likely be wearing with it. While having a great pair of pants can certainly help enhance an outfit, choosing the correct top can either make or break the entire ensemble. If you have a pear-shaped body (smaller torso, larger hips), I suggest using a neckline that broadens the shoulders. This includes cowl, deep crew and square necklines because they help balance the look of larger hips. If you have a more hourglass figure (full bust, small waist, full hips), it's ideal to avoid any baggy clothing on top. That just adds excess bulk and weight to the top half of the body. Instead, with the hourglass being deemed one of the most envied shapes, celebrate the curves with fitted tops and jackets. Furthermore, with having a large bust, it's vital that your bra be accurately sized. There is nothing more distasteful than spilling out everywhere. So for the sake of yourself and those around you, you need not excessively share your wealth. If you don't fit into the pear-shaped or curvy categories and categorize yourself with more of a boyish shape, "rouching" (the gathering of fabrics) can easily create the look of soft curves. Ruffles are also a great way to create the illusion of a fuller bust. If you find yourself trying to shed the image of being too thin, then patterns are definitely a good way to go, too. However, if you choose to go the route of patterned pieces, remember to do it in moderation. Using too many patterns at once allows your ensemble to have the potential to look like an old, reupholstered futon. Not only are there specific rules when it comes to picking out flattering tops, but believe it or not, jewelry can either make you slimmer or heavier, depending on what you choose. While the neck is considered one of the most delicate and beautiful features on a woman, a short necklace isn't ideal for elongating. Instead, longer necklaces draw the eye downward and can really open up the neck and collarbone. Jewelry also has the power to create a very fluid look. For a slimming effect, choose pieces that create a monochromatic look with your outfit — this allows a unified, tailored look. Solid colored clothing is renowned for establishing a slimming effect, and jewelry is no exception in this category. Whether you consider yourself a regular fashionista or are completely uninterested in the world of shopping, clothing is a part of everyone's life. We all dress ourselves (hopefully) and have personal preferences as to what we see ourselves wearing. Therefore, there is no excuse not to take interest in the way your clothes fit. If you simply want to be comfortable over fashionable, take it from me, you can balance both. By getting the correct fit and right fabrics, a new satisfied self could easily be created. Lauran Sloan is a freshman intending to major in journalism. Need help finding the right ensemble for your shape? Send your questions or comments to [email protected].