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

PEAR-SHAPED

Donna Weinbrecht, Olympic skiing gold medalist

Growing up, Weinbrecht, 44, wanted to look like a dancer, petite all over. But a career skiing moguls gave her a strong—and hard to fit—lower half. With time, she's changed her mind. "Now I celebrate my body for what it allowed me to become and do," she says. Weinbrecht, currently a coach and mentor for young athletes, adores the "here I am!" vibe of this empire-waisted silk stunner. Its unique pleating masterfully draws the eye away from a wider bottom, and it included an excellent surprise: "I don't dress up much, so I wasn't sure what to do with my hands," Weinbrecht says, "The pockets made it feel comfortable. Like me."

If you're pear-shaped...

Show some leg. Above-the-knee hems give the illusion of length.

Shift the focus up. Attention-grabbing necklines are especially flattering for this shape.

Wrap it up. Wrap and faux-wrap dresses (like the style above) hold you in up top and conceal on the bottom.

Choose to skim. A-line shapes slide over hips, creating balance.

More Great Holiday Looks

11 Elegant Holiday Sweaters (Yes, Really!)

Attention-Getting Jewelry Under $50

8 Steps to Dramatic Evening Eyes