Plus-Size Basics

Achieve a sophisticated, versatile look by pairing a tunic top with a skirt and boots. Throw on a cardigan or blazer for another look. A shift dress and a blazer is appropriate attire for work or dinner. Wear pearls for work and crystal and sandals for dressier occasions. Flat-front pants and a twin set look and feel great and are a classic look. The shorter length of the twin set works for well-proportioned bodies. Try a longer sweater if large hips are an issue. Create a stylish casual look by wearing a dark denim shirt as a jacket over black flat-front pants.

Seven Must-Have Pieces

• Tunic top. The longer blouse can be worn alone or underneath a blazer or sweater. The hip-length top minimizes hips and can be worn with a skirt, pants or jeans.

• Knee-length skirt. The length minimizes thighs and emphasizes the lower leg. For a slimmer look, match the skirt, hose and shoe color for a long, uninterrupted line.

• Blazer. It should fall below the hips and be nipped in at the waist. It can be worn with the skirt, shift dress, pants or jeans.

• The simple, knee-length shift dress can be layered with a blazer, cardigan or worn alone. Shoes and jewelry can dress it up or down.

• Flat-front pants. Avoid pleats--they can look bulky. A wider leg instead of a straight leg makes the leg look well-proportioned.

• Sweater sets are colorful and versatile--each piece can be worn alone or together.

• Denim shirt. It can be worn as a shirt or jacket over a T-shirt. A dark denim instead of a stone-wash is more versatile since it is a little dressier, although it is still casual.