cover image Hoax Fashion Formula

Hoax Fashion Formula

Mary Duffy. HP Books, $17.95 (246pp) ISBN 978-0-89586-581-6

Maintaining that ""dieting lowers self-esteem and reinforces negative body-imagery,'' Duffywho owns a modeling agency catering to fashion for overweight womenhelps readers with less-than-perfect bodies to design appropriate wardrobes. She demonstrates how figures can be ``reshaped'' by effectively manipulating color, texture, line and form. There are abundant charts, drawings and photos, as well as tips on accessories, grooming, hair and makeup. But suggestions are few for those women who are a combination of two or more of the basic body types. While Duffy's upbeat approach to dealing with a large figure is commendable (``You have the potential to be perfectly satisfied with yourself no matter what your size, age or height''), many of her models appear obese, albeit stylish and well-groomedthe book's specious subtitle notwithstanding. (April 15)