FASHIONS Body type, accessories play roles in creating a perfect wardrobe

Helpful hints make runway fashions suitable for all body types.
NEW YORK (AP) -- Wearing the latest trends shows off your fashion sense, but if the items you desire don't work for your body type, don't bother, professional stylist Jenny Gering says.
"Any runway accessory trend you love can be adapted into your wardrobe," according to Gering, who has styled music videos and feature films in Los Angeles for 10 years. "The key is knowing how to work with proportion for your body type and bank on the accents that flatter you."
Gering offers the following advice on the season's trends:
UHigh boots. Fashion is bursting with boots that draw attention to the legs. Knee-grazing boots can lengthen shorter legs when worn with monochromatic stockings.
UHosiery. The key to knee-high and thigh-high opaque stockings is to go for black or gray and pair stockings with a light-colored shoe, or a dark pair with shine. If you want to try the bright, mod stockings but you're short, match your dress or coat to your stockings and wear a lighter boot or shoe -- with no ankle strap. Taller women can use bright leg colors such as brilliant blue or tomato red to break up a long line.
UBelts. To make belts work for any body type, remember that the higher the belt is worn on the torso, the thinner it should be. At the waist, a belt should be only a half-inch wide, but belts worn low on the hips are flattering at a width of 2 inches or more. Any body type can have fun with low-slung chain belts. They can also do double duty around your neck to create the classic multi-chain necklace look.
UDelicate bags. Bring your favorite coat when you shop for bags to be sure that the proportions work together, especially if you are large-boned or round-bodied.
UMenswear for women. A tweed or bright fedora is an easy way to add a menswear touch to your look, and it's great for adding height if you are smaller.