Special Sizes

Q. I'm a size 16/18 and looking to add some stylish (but flattering) dresses to my work wardrobe. I work at a very fashionable P.R. firm, so I'm looking for dresses that are on-trend, not the usual plus size frumpiness I see everywhere. I love color and prints, can you give me some options?

A. Absolutely! There's no reason why plus size women should have to settle for boring or frumpy. I found some really stylish work dresses for you at nordstrom.com. Here are some of my favorites, but it's worth checking out their full selection:

Q. I'm a 5'2'' girl with a medium frame weighing 120 lbs. I have a pair of black boots with heels that are knee high. Those boots are great, but I can't wear heels all the time. I want a cute pair of boots that are flat but also flattering to my figure. What do you suggest?

A. Petite women can absolutely wear flat boots, it's all in the proportion. While you may be able to pull off a knee high boot with a heel, a flat knee high boot might not be as flattering. Instead of knee high, look for boots that hit a few inches below your knee (around 12" tall) for the most flattering look. Another option is to choose an ankle or mid-calf boot that you can still wear with leggings or skinny jeans. Here are some flat boot options to try:

More Enzo Angiolini...

Q: I'm attending a swanky black tie wedding this fall, and I'm not sure what to wear. I'm very petite (5'1", 107 lbs) and any floor length dress I buy will have to have about 6 inches hacked off the bottom. Any suggestions that won't break the bank in alterations? I love to use RentTheRunway.com but I'm afraid I won't be able to do that for this event.

A. If you shop in the petite department, you shouldn't have to alter the length of your dress very much, if at all. A floor length petite dress is made for people that are under 5'3" generally. Add to that a pair of heels and you should be all set! Below are some petite sized cocktail dresses and full length dresses to wear to your black tie wedding -- and most are under $200.

Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Asymmetrical Pleat Woven Sheath Dress Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique $118 - Nordstrom

Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Shantung Sheath Dress $138 - Nordstrom

Adrianna Papell V-Neck Lace Sheath Dress $178 - Nordstrom

Adrianna Papell Pleated Sheath Dress Adrianna Papell Day $148 - Nordstrom

BCBGMAXAZRIA Ruffle Front One Shoulder Satin Gown $288 - Nordstrom

Adrianna Papell Tiered Satin & Chiffon Gown $196 - Nordstrom

Alex Evenings Double Strap Mesh Gown $118 - Nordstrom

Q. I'm 30 years old and a size 16. I'm looking for a flattering and stylish swimsuit for the summer, but everywhere I look, the swimsuits in my size look like something my grandmother would wear! Can you help me find something stylish and flattering?

A. There's absolutely no reason to settle for a matronly suit! We found some stylish (and figure flattering!) options available for sizes 14, 16, 18 and up:

A v-shaped top adds a chic touch to a basic silhouette. Mesh powernet panel slims the stomach. Tommy Bahama - Pearl V-Strap One Piece w/ Tummy Control $124 - Zappos

A gorgeous ikat printed top gives the illusion of a two-piece. INC International Concepts Swimsuit, Ikat Print One Piece Bathing Suit $59 - Macy's

There's nothing matronly about this sexy one-shouldered suit! figleaves swimwear Rio One Shoulder Swimsuit $45 - Figleaves

Details at the waist give the illusion of a cut-out swimsuit and help create a sexy hourglass silhouette. A special panel helps flatten tummy. Changes by Together Tropical Classic Swimsuit $60 - Figleaves

Q. Can short girls rock wide leg jeans?

A. Follow the lead of famous petite girls, Kylie Minogue and Rachel Bilson, and yes, short girls can wear wide leg jeans. Here are a few tips for wearing them to achieve the most flattering look:

• If you're slim, opt for high waisted wide leg styles which will help elongate your legs.

• Always wear heels (chunky styles work best), which will also help to elongate your legs.

• Opt for a slim fitting, tucked in shirt.

• Look for styles that are slim through the hips and thighs.

• If you are petite and long waisted, with shorter legs - avoid this style!

• If you are petite and plus size - avoid this style!

images via denimology