Trapeze without a Net

Any good fashion guide will tell you to dress for your body, to pick a few classics and accessorize, to avoid fads.

In the face of all this, major retailers seem to push fashions that flatter noone: skinny jeans, bubble skirts, Uggs. I've been trying to ride out this summer's least-flattering trend, the trapeze. "Tent shape" says it all, a trapeze dress is a giant tent that leaves one's figure a complete mystery.

I finally caved and bought one of the trapeze dresses at Old Navy. It was on sale and the bold color and simple cotton seemed like a fun risk to take on a hot summer day in August.

I really, really liked it. Part of the shapeless ambiguity means you're better off without a bra, and definitely stick to something comfortable, no push-up bras. As long as its not too windy, you're well-covered but its so cool and airy. Even though you could be skeletal or 9-months pregnant, the true sexiness of a trapeze dress are the little hints...It surprisingly highlights your shoulders and neck and of course, sexy calves.

From Target to Saks, the trapeze shape is here to stay. Part of being fashionable is not playing it safe and trying out something bold that may not be figure flattering. If you get tired of looking like the circus came to town, cinch your trapeze dress with a chic, slim belt for a whole new outfit.