In the spotlight: your sexy curves and glowing skin take a star turn in this season's body-baring dresses

Shape, Nov, 2002 by Julie Hill

Body Beautiful Stylish now are dresses that showcase your shape with flattering details. Celine by Michael Kors strapless dress with ruched side and slit $630. Stuart Weitzman gold strappy leather mules, $180.

TSE cashmer dress, $1,400. TAG Heuer gold watch with diamonds, $6,995. Beauty note Thierry Mugler Angel Celestial Body Cream, $75, puts your skin in the spotlight. This body-hydrating indulgence contains extracts of aloe and kiwi and a blend of warm sensual fragrance notes.

HAIR: DAVY NEWKIRK/CELESTINEAGENCY.COM.

MAKEUP: KAREN KAWAHARA/CLOUTIERAGENCY.COM.

Chic Shoulders

Go for modern drama with a shoulder-baring dress. BCBG Max Azria drape-neck backless halter dress with handkerchief hemline, $160. This strapless buff dress with a softly padded built-in bra and body-hugging bodice has staying power. Go ahead and boogie down knowing that your dress will stay up. Giorgio Armani strapless polyester stretch dress with wrap-front bodice, $2,200 Cindy Lopex gold necklace, $425. Stuart Weitzman strappy leather heels, $180.

Beauty note Give your hair staying power and a touch of healthy sheen with Redken Vinyl Glam Mega Shine Spray, $14. This soft-hold, nonaerosol spray, delivers high gloss without added weight.

Easy Elegance

The secret appear of these delicate looking designer dresses is that they are as comfy as your favorite nightgown. Ralph Lauren Black Label regal red silk georgette dress with deep plunging back $700. Miu Miu ultrafine-cotton halter dress with side slit, $280, Ondy Lopez, gold bracelet, $820 Stuart Weitzman strappy leather flats, $180.

Beauty note Start your evening with Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Fresh After Bath Powder, $55 before you slip on anything else designer it leaves skin silky smooth (thanks to luxurious silk powder) and gives it a subtle hint of delicate shimmer.

Simply Stated

Choose trim-lined extras for a sleek and sophisticated look. Moschino Cheap and Chic dress with asymmetrical shoulders and gently gathered waistline, $585. Coach watch with square face and thin leather band, $175. Chanel ankle-wrap sandals, $590. Vera Wang deep V-neck satin top, $1,990, and skirt (not shown), $590. Manon gold-chain necklace $565.

Beauty note Add instant sophistication to your look with neutral, but sexy, makeup shades. Try colors by Maybelline: Expert Eyes shadow in Creme de Cocoa, $3.60, Lash Expansion Mascara in Very Black, $7, Brush Blush in Bittersweet, $5.50, and Wet Shine Wet Look Lip Color in Blush Beam, $6.75. See Buyer's Guide, page 173, for retail information.