I have to admit when I started writing this article I was thinking about writing about not only body-type appropriate dresses, but also age-appropriate styles. And then I thought about how annoyed I get when I see articles where there are pieces that I love slotted between the 20-30 year-old age-appropriate category or placed within the "much older than me" age bracket. I mean who's to say what's appropriate for a woman at a certain age to wear when it comes to classic styles and timeless silhouettes? Only you (and maybe your friends and/or wardrobe stylist) truly understand your very individual body type and what cuts of clothing look the best on you.

I would like to share a quote that I read in Bazaar magazine a while ago, it's by Veronica Etro, a designer that contributed to a "Fabulous at Every Age" article. She says: "At each stage of your life you should show the best and hide the worst."

So I guess that's what I'm trying to say here ladies, I don't care if you're 55 if you can pull off the sexy and incredibly versatile Theory number below – go for it! Same goes for you, my 20 year-old fashionista, if you have the vision and the means to purchase the classic yet bold DVF nautical shirtdress – you go girl! And this goes for everyone in between as well. One of these dresses will indeed allow you at whatever age and body type to confidently show off your best assets this spring and summer.



Theory, Lunel Dress, $275.00 at www.shopbop.com



Tibi, Asymmetric Floral Dress, $270.00 at www.netaporter.com



BCBG, Printed Boatneck Dress, $158.00 at www.bcbg.com



Diane Von Furstenburg, Alondra Dress in Navy and White, at www.dvf.com


Jennifer Bakken is a San Francisco based wardrobe consultant. For more information: cabinetdenvie.com.