Today we got on the phone with our favorite fashionista Erika Stanley to discuss The Fashion Show and little did we know that by the end of the call we would have learned all of the tricks of the trade for dressing a real woman’s body.

SO!: The designers seemed to struggle with the concept of designing an outfit for a real woman’s body.  Do you think that a designer should know how to create a look for real women?

ES: Definitely. I think that it is extremely important. When you go to design school you learn the skills to create  looks for different sizes.  You learn puckering, how to choose seams wisely, where to place darts, etc.  You need to keep in mind that when you design a garment it is going to be sized up and down and it has to look best at all sizes.  Jean designers create collections that fit all different body types including high-waisted, wide legth, bootcut and curvy. You have to create a look that fits most people or your line won’t sell.

SO!: As a stylist, can you give us any tips for buying clothing to fit a real woman’s body?

ES: My suggestion is to shop directly from the manufacturer. They are more likely to have alternative sizes, such as ankle fit and long.

SO!: Do you have any tips for women who want to hide a certain area on their body?

ES: Know what fits your body best. Don’t try to fit the trend. Elaborate more on what does fit versus fighting what doesn’t. If you like a particular trend try to wear it  in a way that fits your body the best. If you can’t fit into a high-waisted jean, try the trend with a high-waisted skirt. Also, having a good tailor is very key.

SO!: Do you agree with the judge’s decision for the winner?

ES:I think that they both did an amazing job. I do think that Reco should have won though. A lot of thought went into his design. Everything on that garment had a specific reason and it was pretty, girly and flirty. I think that Daniella did a great job as well. As soon as her model turned the corner on the runway the first thing that your eyes went to was that collar and not her bust, which she was trying to hide.

SO!: Do you agree with the judge’s decision for the loser?

ES:I think that Merlin should have been sent home. Even if that outfit was worn by a model, it would have looked bad. I saw what Keith was trying to do. I think that Keith’s dress was too long for his client. If he had cut it shorter it would have been more successful. But with Merlin, I didn’t get anything out of that.

Make sure to check back for more from our Expert Panel on The Fashion Show!