Wrap Dresses - the dress that looks great on everyone

Wrap dresses really do look good on every shape, although you do have to know how to wear it. The basic principle of the wrap dress is that there are two pieces of fabric which crossover at the bust, and this can be worn in different ways.

Guru of the fashion world, Diane von Furstenberg has made wrap dresses famous.

They are always a key part of her seasonal collections. Her emphasis is on making the woman look more sensuous and highlighting her feminine figure.

No matter what size you are, there is a wrap dress out there for you to look gorgeous in.

Do wrap dresses work for fuller figured women ?

A plus size figure will look stunning in a wrap dress that hugs her shape, accentuating her assets. The great part about this style is that it makes the body look in total proportion and wonderfully feminine at the same time.

The perfect wrap for a plus size woman is one in a darker colour, with ¾ length sleeves, which finishes just below the knee. There ought to be very little pattern on the dress, and if there is a pattern it will be very small.

The fabric of the dress should be one that skims the surface of your skin, and to do this it ought to have some elastane in it.

This dress looks best worn by itself with a pair of heels, no jacket or cardigan is necessary as this will add unnecessary bulk to the look. If you need something to keep you warm though, buy a well fitting shrug that you can put around your shoulders as it starts to get colder.

If you're fed up with wearing long trousers or skirts to cover your figure, this is the time to treat yourself to a sexy looking pair of sandals to show off your ankles.

For a petite woman are wrap dresses flattering ?

For a smaller frame, you will look great in dresses made from a stiffer fabric, though it should still highlight your shape.  Surprisingly, even fabrics like taffeta can work, as Diana von Furstenburg has shown in her recent fashion collections.

Choose a wrap dress that has short or no sleeves, and ties under the bust rather than around the waist. This will balance out the look, and give you even proportions.

Your dress should finish above the knee, and have a bold pattern. But if you don't want a pattern, rather than being just black in colour, buy one that is in a brighter or lighter colour.

Team this style with accessories in a complimentary shade, but keep these to a minimum, the dress will speak for itself. For example, if you are wearing a brown or red wrap, put it with a large gold cuff bracelet.

Wear your hair down and in a very simple style, and wear complimentary, naturalistic make-up; the beauty of this look is in the natural and simple style. 

And finally, enjoy yourself - and don't forget to ring the changes and add one or two of these easy-care, easy wear outfits to your summer wardrobe!