When you consider that the average woman in the UK is now a size 16, it seems ridiculous to design salon wear exclusively for size 10s. However, despite the fact that women's bodies are changing many people confirm that finding fashionable, well-cut salon wear and beauty uniforms is getting increasingly difficult.

Back in 1990 the average dress size for a UK woman was a 12, with a B-cup bra. In 2000 most UK women were wearing a 14 with the average cup size swelling to a D. Fast forward to 2010 and the rise of the shapely size 16, it's clear that decade on decade UK women are getting curvier. It doesn't take much imagination to see that the fashion industry should follow suit. But surprise surprise, the runways of Europe are still full of tiny size zeros who bear no reflection on the real women who want to wear the latest fashions and look good too.

High fashion aside, it's on the high street that things are really starting to change. Big name brands are beginning to embrace the fuller figure, expanding their sizing range and introducing designs specifically cut to flatter today's women. Gone are the days of shapeless tunics and hiding in dark colours. Modern women know how to work their curves in well-cut tailoring and flattering clothes that show off their assets.

It's no different when it comes to choosing a work uniform and salon wear. Don't feel you have to opt for a safe colour palette simply because you're not a size 8 – 10. Wear bold colours that make the most of your curves. Think hot pink, rich plum and vibrant teal to really make a statement – and team it with black separates if you're not quite ready to wear the look from head to toe. And be sure to think about the fit. There's no hard and fast rule here, but generally speaking a nipped in waist will create a great silhouette and add definition to your figure. Asymmetrical tunics are a great place to start when putting your new salon wear style together. You could also try a tailored dress, which provides all the support, style and practicality of a tunic with a hard to resist feminine touch.

There's also a few other ways to make sure you get the best in fit, fashion and comfort for you and your team. Try buying garments like trousers and skirts in two-way stretch fabrics. This will provide you with the ultimate in comfort, ease of movement and support, as well as helping to prevent creases. And what modern woman doesn't want to spend less time ironing? You could also experiment with single and double action backs for that made-to-measure feeling, as well as adjustable hems and waistbands to really find the perfect fit.

Dressing the fuller figure for work doesn't have to be hard work – remember to have fun with colour and choose a fit that flatters your body, skims curves and gives hidden support and you'll be blessed with salon wear that's the envy of all your competitors.