Body Con-Versation

By Karen R. Smith

It’s definitely summer here in Tucson, and that’s when it’s time to show off your body - whether you like it or not!

This is the season to flaunt a body-con dress or skirt and revel in the comfort and enjoy the attitude. If you’re still working on those curves (or trying to lose a few instead), fear not! There are fabulous clothes for every shape and age that will help you feel confident and look fabulous.

Take it down

One way to look longer and slimmer while still presenting a body-con silhouette is to go long. I fell in love with this Zara dress at its original price of $59.90 and now it’s on sale for half that, so don’t waste a moment if you’re looking for a fabulous long dress with a body-con vibe in a neutral color that will work with every accessory you own. It’s linen and viscose and flows like a dream. It’s available in small, medium and large. zara.com

Looking for something long and lean in a plus size? Check out the sale on maxi dresses at Torrid.com. Several are currently BOGO, and all are reduced from their original prices. I really like the rayon/poly jersey with the cold shoulder bodice, and right now it’s $49.99 BOGO. Can’t get much better than that! torrid.com

If you are looking to flaunt it like a Kardashian, you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Take a look at this midi from Forever 21 forever21.com  It couldn’t be simpler and is actually a copy of a much more expensive version you’ve seen all over Instagram. Ruched sides, a scoop neck, and cami straps. Add a pair of killer heels and you’ll be ready for your closeup!

If nothing but the best will do, it’s still on sale. Versace’s Tattoo knit body-con dress is down to $325 at Saks saksfifthavenue.com Nordstrom’s Rack had a couple in different styles (all of them clingy as a second skin) but once the sale hit, they sold out.

Shorter options

Want to bare more? No problem! Lots of options this season, just figure out the one that will flatter your form.

If you’ve been working on that six pack, go for a crop top and show it off. Lulus.com has a fabulous assortment, with either a skirt or pants to match. Check out this set in a light peach print! www.lulus.com/products...

Urban Outfitters -- here in town or on their website -- has fabulous crop tops and matching bottoms. Check out their Amanda button-down crop top and midi skirt, or the crocheted Vanessa mini skirt and crop tank if you want to show more leg. Show even more with the plaid high waisted shorts and buttoned crop in their Priscilla pink plaid. Each piece is under $60. And while you’re there, check out their rib-knit button down body-con midi!

Converse conversation

Not all of us want to outline our forms, despite the summer temptations. In fact, there are many whose body-conVersation seeks comfort, coverage, and coolness. The answer is simple: caftans!

Caftans come in all kinds of fabrics, and while they share certain proportions, there are enough differences in style to keep you well-dressed all summer long!

(I should note here that caftans look just as good on men as they do on women, and are far cooler and more comfortable than the ubiquitous shorts and shirt that most of Tucson’s gents are wearing when it’s 109 degrees.)

H&M has a sheer white caftan midi dress in a viscose/polyamide blend that is simplicity itself on sale for $34.99...while Anthropologie has a dynamic silk print caftan for $356. That’s about the range, both in style and price. Everything else is somewhere in between, and you’re going to look terrific in all of them because they glide over the body without cling or commentary. Burlington has caftans on sale for under $10 in styles ranging from mini to maxi; Amazon carries Riviera Sun Caftans and most are under $20 and J. Crew has caftans on sale including adorable tiny ones in little kid sizes!

Confidence and comfort

Dressing for our weather is important. And it is just as vital to dress to feel your best. Whatever your body-conVersation desires, shop for comfort and confidence and you’ll feel your best despite the temperatures!

About the Author:
Karen R. Smith is an award-winning journalist and publicist. Her book, "Stylishly Sexy" is available online and she takes private style clients throughout Arizona and across the country. Visit her at www.stylesmithtransformations.com