Add curves
Lisa Williams, 39, has a tall, thin frame, and the wrong skirt style can make her look lanky and formless. Plus, like many women, she prefers to cover her knees. "It's an area I'm self-conscious about," says Lisa, "especially when I'm feeling out of shape."
Go for a full, drop-waisted skirt with gathers or pleats.
Stick to hems that hit just below the knee -- a hem that hits the ankle or even mid-calf is too long.
Buy a skirt in a bold print.
On Lisa: Skirt, $37, sizes 2-18; at New York & Company. Top, $25, sizes 2-16; Necklace, $8; at Icing. Bracelet, $5; at Forever 21. Shoes, a.n.a, $50, sizes 5-11; at JCPenney.
Flatter a plus size
"It's really important to feel good in what you're wearing," says Danielle Banks, 24, who wears more skirts than pants year-round. Danielle adds that in hot summer weather she likes "flowy skirts -- they just skim over me. This skirt is really comfortable, and the bright colors are great."
Avoid ruffles, but try tiered styles.
Opt for flattering A lines.
Pick flowing fabrics.
On Danielle: Skirt, $40, sizes 12W- 32W; Top, $40, sizes 14-28; at Lane Bryant. Earrings, $35; Bracelet, $5; at Forever 21. Shoes, Yellow Box, $69, sizes 5 1/2- 10; at department stores.