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

Lauren Zalaznick in O, the Oprah Magazine

Long-Waisted

Lauren Zalaznick, TV executive

This tuxedo dress—great over leggings or opaque hose—reflects Zalaznick's preference for neutral shades and sculptural shapes. At 46, the president of NBC Universal Women and Lifestyle Entertainment Networks believes that dress-up clothes shouldn't stray too far from your everyday wardrobe. "My basic colors are gray and off-white," she says. "My evening look is a shinier version—metallic or satin—of that palette."

If you're long-waisted...

Sharpen color contrasts. Break up the length of your body with a stark pairing, like black and white.

Relocate the waist. The dress narrows to a deep vee just above her natural waist, then flares out, creating a whole new silhouette.

Think big. Architectural construction—defined shoulders; sculptured-looking ruffles—won't swamp a tall, lean figure.

Play up the legs. Let them be seen.

Go for bold jewels. Delicate accessories disappear on a stretched-out body. Instead, think cocktail rings or chunky, extravagant bracelets.

More: Jackets and suits that won't fall short, plus tops and sweaters with length to spare