New York / PRNewswire/ -- A woman's outlook on life and level of self-esteem often has a lot to do with the way she looks, says research. According to a major study, 90 percent of American women say that how they look determines how they feel about themselves. The study also found that most women, regardless of age, size or shape perceive that they have body flaws. Sixty-three percent cite their tummies as the problem area, 45 percent their thighs, and 33 percent their rears. Poor self-image significantly increases for women larger than a size 10.

While a combination of diet and exercise is the optimal solution to creating the toned, slimmed bodies they desire, most women today find it challenging to eat right and exercise regularly. Sixty-five percent say that their attempts at weight control have been unsuccessful. Their busy schedules, family demands, the cost of food and gym memberships are barriers to healthy lifestyles. However, breakthroughs in the fashion industry that employ advance technology and unique designs are helping women compensate for failed diets and inadequate exercise.

Today, many women are discovering the benefits of shapewear. These pieces can actually "nip and tuck," helping women achieve the bodies they want. But few designers are actually using this innovative technology that combines instant control with the fashion designs women love. One brand that is in the forefront of the technology and design is Shape fx(R).

Each Shape fx(R) design slims, conceals and re-shapes using built-in power-mesh lining and exclusive fabrics that smooth and control. The designs also accentuate assets and conceal problem areas. The collection is an entire wardrobe of expertly tailored, seasonless clothing, ultra-slimming swimwear and shapewear solutions. Each piece, from pants to dresses to suits to slips, provides effortless slimming and reshaping that truly helps a woman "make the body you have, look like the body you want."

In addition to using Shape fx(R) technology, there are other ways to dress that can transform the look of the body without shedding weight or going under the knife. Here are a few tips:

-- Wear the right size: Squeezing yourself into a smaller size will not help you to look thinner. What it may do is accentuate all of the bumps and bulges you're trying to camouflage. Fit the largest part of your body and tailor clothes to fit you correctly.

-- Use patterns to trick the eye: Zig-zags, diagonal stripes, and other patterns can fool the eye and hide problem areas. Avoid horizontal or vertical stripes however.

-- Choose boot-cut or trouser-cut pants: Skip the straight or tapered legs. Wider legs on pants will balance out larger hips or thighs and give a more streamlined appearance.

-- Wear a heel: Even a small heel can elongate the body and give a more svelte appearance.

The Shape fx(R) Collection is available at http://www.shapefx.com/, http://www.newport-news.com/, http://www.spiegel.com/ and in the Newport News and Spiegel catalogs.