Bare Wear

There's something very Audrey Hepburn about a simple strapless dress. It's cute yet sophisticated, demure yet sexy. And it's a style that many women look good in. Strapless dresses are chic staples to have in your wardrobe because you can throw a cardigan over them for work or other daytime activities, and then come evening, all they require is a simple clutch for a standout look. This playful polka-dot-trim Nanette Lepore number ($395) has a fitted waist and boned bodice to hold you in and support you. Available at SaksFifthAvenue.com.

Shop for more black strapless dresses.

• Exposing the upper body, especially the collarbone area, takes the focus away from protruding hips and rear.


• The boned bodice trims and lengthens the torso; it accentuates the waist while hiding problem areas.


• Strapless styles are more flattering than dresses with skinny straps for those with bigger upper bodies, as skinny straps make large tops look even larger.

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