Have you noticed how colour and curves seem to go together? Here are two women often associated with weight loss stories (putting weight on, losing weight, putting it back on again …)

Why don’t we simply appreciate their fabulous curves?  My, but they look like women – and that’s a good thing!

I find it interesting that Nigella and Oprah (aged 55 and 61 respectively, if you can believe that) colour-block in strong, pure hues, while their more straight-up-and-down sisters are often soberly attired. That suggests to me that they themselves really do celebrate their curves, perhaps because they know that real men love them. (The Editor certainly does, I’m glad to say.)

If you are fearless enough to cope with the attention that will almost certainly ensue, my two top online stores for dressing like a real woman are …

Diva Catwalk (rumour has it that Nigella is a customer):

And the Pretty Dress Company:

Proper grown-up clothing!