Courtesy of TopShop/Piperlime.com
dress and blazer

Create the waist you’ve always wanted…

…in a color-blocked peplum dress (a modern take on the sophisticated silhouette). A flouncy, flirty peplum detail nips in at your natural waistline, adding welcome volume to a straight figure. Strategic color-blocking will continue to create the illusion of an hourglass figure, by breaking up the body into separate sections. Wear with a bold, gold statement necklace and you’re ready for your promotion.

Tinley Road Peplum Dress (above right), $69, piperlime.com.

QUIZ: What’s Your Body Shape?

Slim hips and hide a tummy…

…in a longer-length, structured blazer. A long length effectively skims over hips and thighs for a naturally slimming effect. Structure and clean lines will whittle your middle, to counter any extra bulge. Roll up your sleeves to show off slender wrists, and a stack of fabulous bangles—an instant way to amp up your style and look polished for the office.

Ponte Rolled Sleeve Blazer (above left), $70, topshop.com.

Skirt courtesy of J. Crew/Pants courtesy of Piperlime.com
pencil skirt, cropped pants

Ditch standard black

Most work wardrobes can be dull and uninspiring. Add some flair to your functional office basics, like with this aqua pencil skirt, pink lined tuxedo pants, or cropped cobalt trousers. Just be sure to balance the bold hues with neutral tones (think cream cardigans or charcoal blouses).

J. Crew Sterling Skirt in Retro Jade (above left), $148, jcrew.com; Rachel Roy Cropped Pant (above center), $228, piperlime.com; Milly Kiera Tuxedo Pant (above right), $285, piperlime.com.

Courtesy of Piperlime.com
snake print button up

You can wear animal prints…

…to work! The key is to look for luxe fabrics and rich jewel-toned colors for fall, like in this gorgeous emerald green silk blouse. (I love this unexpected and fresh shade.) Look polished and professional (not party girl) by pairing with black classic trousers and sensible pumps.

Equipment Brett Diamondback Python Print Silk Blouse, $248, piperlime.com.

MORE: Dress for Your Body Shape

Need more style tips for creating the most figure-flattering wardrobe? Jacqui’s debut style book, “The Wow! Factor: Insider Style Secrets for Every Body and Every Budget” (Penguin), is available for pre-order!