Dress Light

Hip Smoother

Aminata, fashion merchandising student, 25

Before: A dropped waist can be flattering, but not if it hits at the broadest point on the hips. Thick straps and a square neckline also add width, and the huge, bright floral print makes Aminata look a wee bit upholstered.

After: Fabric that lies flat is always preferable to bunchy gathers. On a stretch wool bubble-skirt dress (Reiss, $325), stitched-down inverted pleats minimize hips, then flare out to mask thighs. A monochromatic scheme (the grosgrain belt is only slightly lighter than the base color) promotes an extended head-to-toe line. Gold hoops, Lisa Stewart. Shoes, Bottega Veneta.