Photos: Fall 2011 Fashion Trends for a Ruler Body Shape

Runway: Donna Karan

No one will mistake you for one of the boys in this gorgeous gown. The draping gives your straight figure the illusion of having curves—and that asymmetrical top gives the cold shoulder in the hottest way possible.

Your way: Create curves with a style that skims the body. This one also features a front wrap skirt and keyhole open back. So sexy.

Helmut Lang jersey maxi dress, $295, saksfifthavenue.com

Your way: Most body types would want to stay far, far away from a long, slim-fitting dress in colorful horizontal stripes. But the ruler-shaped woman can easily rock this look. We’ll pretend not to be jealous.

Different Degrees maxi dress, $178, anthropologie.com

Your way: How does a ruler shape show curves in a simple long T-shirt dress? Belt it! Just add an open cardigan and a wide belt and—bam! Watch out for dangerous curves ahead.

Victoria’s Secret maxi tee dress, $59.50, victoriassecret.com

Runway: Peter Som

Borrowing from the boys never looked so beautiful. Pair slim or boot-cut slacks with a structured boyfriend-inspired jacket to pull this suit style together. Wear a cozy sweater or sport something sexy and feminine like a camisole underneath.

Your way: The high-waist pant is not for every shape, but it’s perfectly suited for ruler types. This camel suit looks great worn together or as separates. Add a little flair with animal print accessories.

Worthington jacket, $46.99, and trousers, $29.99, JCPenney

Your way: Not a lot of body types can sport a suit that’s both tight and shiny, but the ruler can pull it off with ease. This sassy number highlights those sexy stems of yours and the boyfriend-ness of the jacket helps temper the hotness factor.

Victoria’s Secret shiny crop pant, $79.50, and jacket, $148, victoriassecret.com

Your way: Rulers can add curves in an instant by belting that jacket. This military-inspired suit looks great with a pair of bright stilettos.

Calvin Klein belted military suit, $140, macys.com

Runway: Tory Burch

Be bold by choosing large prints, such as this plaid paired with stripes. Darker shades are flattering on every body type, but the trick is to choose similar color families when picking patterns.

Your way: Are you ready to mix things up? We love this multi-print look—and the feminine bow, high waist and structured blazer are all features a ruler-shaped woman should look for.

Wrap Around striped blouse, $98, Shirr and Pleat pencil skirt, $138, and Forested blazer, $268, anthropologie.com

Your way: Want to kill a whole bunch of trends with one stylish stone? Check out this flower power ensemble. You’ve got mixed prints with the floral maxi skirt and your fave rock concert T-shirt from your closet—the whole look has the funky ‘70s vibe that’s still holding over from spring. Feeling groovy yet?

Free People Cantina wrap skirt, $95.99, lordandtaylor.com

Your way: Ruler shapes who crave comfy clothes will like this pairing—a chiffon striped T-shirt with paisley washed silk pants—perfect for when you wish you could just stay in your pjs all day. Too pricey? Look for similar styles at mass retail stores.

Lyn Devon Bell T-shirt, $475, and drawstring Truman pants, $750, shopbop.com