Life Is Not a Dress Size by Farro, Rita

Offers advice to overweight women about how to develop a positive attitude about appearance, how to accentuate good features, and how to dress appropriately for size and shape

YA. A welcome practical handbook. Overweight women have been trained to be ashamed of their size, hiding inside lumpy sweats and shapeless layers. This can be especially true for teenage girls, who will find scant support at the local mall. Well, "life is not a dress size," says Farro. Instead, careful attention to fit, style, and "that all-important vertical line" can help overcome the fashion barrier that encourages poor self-image. The author includes the usual chapters on body types and the styles that work best for each. A bonus sewing section provides a few simple patterns for garments and accessories, as well as valuable information on altering patterns for larger sizes. The author also includes important sections on attitude, self-esteem, and personal grooming. The book is well illustrated, though most of the models are clearly adult women. Nevertheless, the format and tone will appeal to teens who can benefit from Farro's exuberant and humorous approach to this closet problem.?Robin Deffendall, Prince William Public Library System, VA
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.