A reader writes . . .

StyleSMALL PRINT: Could you suggest some fashion tips for me? I am in my mid-50s, quite tall and weigh about 12 stone. I am rather conscious of my size and would appreciate your advice on how to dress to reduce my height. Finally, my budget for clothing has suffered some downsizing recently. Agnes, by email

It’s strange how qualities we may desire for ourselves are often the very embodiment of that old epitaph about green grass (I forget how it goes). Nevertheless, I can see your predicament – many a tall woman bemoans her stature.

Separates are your friend. Skirts, ankle boots and fitted separates will cut your body into blocks, so it won’t appear as one, long line. Think of teaming skirts with fitted sweaters and blouses and layering an open cardigan or blazer on top, in a darker colour. It creates an optical illusion so that your mid-section, the lightest and narrowest point, will be the focus.

Items that you already own should routinely be taken out and mixed (and matched) with others to see what is working, and what is not. In terms of investment, I would look at a neat pencil skirt (try Wallis), a fine cashmere knit (Marks Spencer has a good selection at reasonable prices) and updating your look with a few on-trend accessories – stores such as Evans and Forever 21 are often troves for interesting necklaces and bracelets at bargain prices.