Party Dresses for All Body Types

Tall or short, big or small— any body can look sensuous this holiday season.

By Katherine B. Weissman
O, The Oprah Magazine | From the December 2009 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

Sherri Shepherd in O, the Oprah Magazine

BUSTY

Sherri Shepherd, actress

This flirty dress is brightly colored but discreetly cut. "It does not scream, 'Hey, big boobs!'" says Shepherd, 42, cohost of The View; star of Sherri, a Lifetime sitcom; and author of Permission Slips: Every Woman's Guide to Giving Herself a Break. A skirt with inverted pleats keeps her hips looking narrow.

If you're busty...

Stick to one shade. It creates a head-to-toe sweep of color, so you look longer and slimmer.

Contain yourself. If wearing a tank, choose wider straps, which allow for a more supportive bra. Avoid strapless or backless dresses.

Don't go with the flow. Tailored clothes that give the body a clear silhouette are more becoming.

Stretch out. Establish a strong vertical line with pleats, seams, or long necklaces and scarves.

More: 9 more ways to work with your curves