Stanley Tucci's overly honest and frightening portrayal of the fashion industry sadly was not far from the truth when he played seasoned New York designer, Nigel in the acclaimed film The Devil Wears Prada. He chastised a naive blossoming journalist, Andy Sachs played by Anne Hathaway, for refusing to starve herself when he explained that size two was now the new four and zero the new two.

This seemingly realistic depiction of the fashion industry as a whole does not hold true in a country where the average size of an American women is 14. Healthy and size 0 rarely go hand in hand. You don't need to deprive yourself of life to be beautiful. Dressing for your figure is the key to looking great and feeling confidant all in one amazing package.

Follow these simple rules to feel as elegant as a model every day! Clingy, heavy fabrics are out--they stick to the hips ungracefully instead of flowing the way clothes should. For a forgiving, versatile and amazingly flattering choice, try a wrap dress. This is a truly superb invention which is both stylish and comfortable.

You should avoid bubble sleeves if you don't like your arms. The mass of fabric combined with the elastic cinch effect in this type of sleeve tends to draw attention to the arms, a problem area for many females.

You need to be judicious in wearing belts. Belts can be an inexpensive and simple way to give life to old pieces of clothing. Very audacious or ostentatious belts should be avoided, and special attention should be paid to placement o the belt. A belt around the ribcage is very flattering for someone who is heavy in the midsection and thighs. Make sure to choose just the right belt loop, because a too-tight belt is unflattering and uncomfortable.

Choose the right high boots. High boots look great with dresses but if you're short and have a pear shaped figure make sure your boots have a heel. The added height lengthens the legs and makes you stand tall with style and elegance. Pair boots with an empire waist dress and you're set. The empire waist falls just above the natural waist making bottom heavy women look fabulous.

Choose a fabric with a subtle color, and ignore the common misconception that black is the only color that looks slimming. This has gone by the wayside, replaced by understatement. The key is to avoid obnoxious and unflattering prints and horizontal stripes. Instead try inviting and warm colors such as rusts, browns, and greens.

Most importantly, you want to take ownership of your style. You should choose dresses that will flatter your figure and boost your self-confidence. A few choice pieces can take you to work, out for dinner, or even to a cocktail party.