Julia Stone and Hilary Harper model new clothes from designer Charles Chang-Lima.

Photo: Michael Edwards

The Man and His Fans
Fashion should be fun, not humiliating, says designer Charles Chang-Lima. (Left) Julia Stone, 34, vice president of sales for two Chang-Lima collections, swears by this stretch crepe sheath ($1,395). Flatteringly draped, it makes her feel "totally unconstrained and totally pulled together." Ring, Jill Jacobson. Shoes, Stuart Weitzman. 

(Right) Appropriate for an ample bust, the satin organza dress on volunteer Hilary Harper, 29, offers upper-arm coverage. Ring, Kara Ross. Shoes, Christian Louboutin.

Julia Stone and Ida Schaefer model new clothes from designer Charles Chang-Lima.

Photo: Michael Edwards

Show Yourself Off
A formfitting skirt or jersey tee can be surprisingly sensuous when you've got an honest-to-God female body to show off. The pinstriped skirt ($695) and floral silk shirt ($1,050), unbuttoned for a glimpse of black lace bra, (left), are "very 'sexy secretary,'" Julia says. "I would totally wear this to work." Earrings, Irene Neuwirth. Belt, Hobo International. Shoes, Stuart Weitzman

This silk satin skirt ($1,050), (right), has stitched-down pleats (the slimming kind); a crepe-knit top ($775) is stabilizing for the well-endowed because the dense material "makes you feel like you have another layer of support," says account executive Ida Schaefer, 27. Black with burgundy is a nearly monochromatic pairing that ensures a sleek, continuous line. Necklace, Ron Hami
Hilary Harper models new clothes from designer Charles Chang-Lima.

Photo: Michael Edwards

A Perfect 10 for 9 to 5
Seamless teamwork between fabric and shape makes Hilary's sheath ($1,495) a home run for 9 to 5. Darts and pinstripes enhance the vertical line; ombré shading is darkest at the middle of the body, where many women need slimming. A matching jacket is available for an even more professional look (or in case you're self-conscious about your arms). Cuff, Jarin for Jennifer Miller. Ring, Rachel Leigh. Tights, DKNY. Shoes, Costume National
Amy Chang models new clothes from designer Charles Chang-Lima.

Photo: Michael Edwards

You Can Wear Trends!
The cropped satin faille jacket ($1,225) on 30-year-old Amy Chiang, a management consultant, could be described as fierce. Wide-legged, high-waisted trousers ($1,025) are a must-get for fall, says Chang-Lima: "They give the illusion of length." (On his hate list: cropped, tapered pants, which do the opposite.) Top, $545. Ring, Jill Jacobson
Ida Schaefer models new clothes from designer Charles Chang-Lima.

Photo: Michael Edwards

Dependable for Day or Night
This two-in-one sateen coat reversing to cozy bouclé has stylishly short, wide sleeves that invite layering, perhaps with bright gloves (Coach). It won't look bulky if you balance the volume with narrow pants ($725), as Ida has done here. A dependable everyday piece, this coat also cleans up nicely for night with a patent leather and suede clutch (Cole Haan). Turtleneck, Ellen Tracy, $228