Work the middle. Your waist should always be well defined. A cinched-in middle never fails to flatter; it highlights your womanly figure. Wear a belt or choose pieces with details like beading or ruching at the waist. Color blocking two bold colors broken up at the waist really enhances that hourglass shape. Photo: Getty

Feminine clothes that enhance the hourglass are always flattering. Go trim. To accentuate your figure, wear formfitting dresses and skirts that are cut diagonally or on the bias. They should nip in at the waist, hug the hips, and fall loosely over the thighs and calves. Try it tailored. A-line shapes will downplay your lower half. Choose structured pieces with flare that isn't too dramatic; an exaggerated trapeze shape won't do you any favors. Whatever you wear on top, make sure it's slim and cut close to the body to best balance a fuller-cut lower half. Photo: Getty

Choose close-to-the-body cuts. Caftans and sack or boxy shapes won't flatter your body properly. Look for tailored pieces like fitted button-ups, straight skirts and trousers, and wrap dresses that skim the body and give the waist definition. Photo: Getty

The key is to create womanly curves and definition. Enhance your figure. To transform your slender physique into a more curvy shape, accentuate your middle and create the illusion of a fuller bust and hips. That means always define the waist. Photo: Getty

Solid hues in lights or darks will serve you well. But don't avoid brights altogether. A rich red is always striking; ditto lush jewel tones. Big prints aren't best, so go monochromatic to create the slimmest line, or wear simple, contrasting shades. Photo: Getty

Don't shy away from bold and intricate patterns. Florals, stripes, and graphics will give depth and character to a silhouette, but remember to keep it in check. Choose refined motifs in classic colors to keep from going overboard. Photo: Getty

Keep your look sleek and chic, and avoid very busy prints. You don't want to get lost in a loud pattern. Mixing solids works, and subtle details can add personality, but stay away from things, like overly ornate embellishment, that will detract from your frame. Photo: Getty

Plush fabrics like brocade, velvet, silk, lace, and chiffon can add character and fullness in the right places, and combining different fabrics will increase the richness of your look. Shun lots of layers, however, because your petite figure will look too lost in there. Photo: Getty

A slit on the side of a gown can be sexy and slimming, while showing lots of leg offers a long, lean look. Highlighting your décolletage also looks sultry without being too provocative. Photo: Getty

Pieces with pleats, poufs, and peplums add ladylike definition. The same goes for anything with adornment. Ruffles, beading, and bows all offer a feminine boost to your figure. Balance anything with a lot of personality or dimension. Photo: Getty

Consider simplicity, subtle sexiness, and a little structure. Don draping shapes. While a structured look always works, pliable fabrics like jersey can be your best friend. You can wrap, twist, and gather a soft, stretchy fabric across your waist or chest. Photo: Getty