Adam Yankauskas, a fashion designer for Maggy London, offers his best advice on figure-flattering cuts, what to wear, and what to avoid. Find out what he has to say.

What are your top three fashion dos and don'ts?

Fashion Dos

1. Do invest in good quality items that last season after season.
2. Do update your look with new accessories for an affordable way to keep your style fresh.
3. Do avoid fads that are over in a flash. Wear things that make you feel comfortable – it’ll show if you aren’t.

Fashion Don'ts

1. Don’t worry about trends. If it doesn’t suit your style, skip it.
2. Don’t wear every trend at once. Trendy items should be mixed with more classic pieces for a balanced outfit.
3. Don’t get stuck in a style rut. Dare to wear bright colors and shed your go-to basic black.

Which three to five dresses should every woman own? Why?

Well, there’s the LBD, of course. Look for a versatile silhouette that can transition easily from day to night. A great jersey dress is also a key staple item – it doesn’t wrinkle and can be quickly packed in a suitcase for that spur of the moment vacation! Finally, step away from basic black and have some fun with a bold, colorful cocktail dress.

What is the best cut to play down the appearance of a large bust? Best cut to accentuate it?

If you want to accentuate a large bust, the best cut would be a V-neck, sweetheart, or scoop neck. If you’re looking to downplay a large bust, opt for U-neck dresses that break the line from shoulder to bust. Don't forget a bra that fits.

What’s the best cut for a woman who wants to enhance the appearance of a small bust?

The classic sweetheart neckline works wonders when it comes to enhancing a small bust. Ruffles, as well as sweaters, tops, or dresses that have any sort of draping at the neckline, can also be a very flattering style for small-busted figures.

Which style best flatters an hourglass figure? A pear-shaped figure?

Hourglass figures look best in silhouettes that accentuate them – look for dresses that are fitted and show off those curves! A pear-shaped figure looks amazing in a classic 50’s silhouette that has a fitted waist and a full skirt.

Which style can best give a boy-shaped figure a more feminine appearance?

Find pieces that create a womanly shape – use draping and embellishments to create the illusion of curves. Fitted, draped jersey dresses are a must for women who want to give a boyish build softness. The best part is they are comfortable, too!

What advice do you have for women who want to minimize their midsections?

The key is as simple as wearing the proper undergarments! Wearing the proper undergarments will eliminate unwanted bulges.

It is also important to find items that emphasize the narrowest part of your torso and accentuate your bust. Empire waists work really well – be sure the cut skims the body and drapes nicely to avoid a maternity looking silhouette. Avoid dresses that hug your middle!

Is there a dress style that will work equally well for all figures?

You can’t go wrong with a great shift dress. It gives a beautiful silhouette to those with hips and looks smooth and sleek on everyone! Find one that just skims the hips for a great A line.

What are three must-haves for women this fall? What colors are trending?

Must-haves this fall include color blocked dresses, the LLD – little lace dress, and a draped jersey dress that is perfect to transition from day to night! The new neutrals this season are camel, charcoal, and winter white but the color of the moment is red!

What do you think is going to be hot in winter fashion?

Fur is probably the hottest thing in fashion this winter. Anything with leather detailing and trim is also a great new trend we’re seeing.

What are your plans for your next collection?

Next season we will be continuing the color block trend, but we are working with a lot of more fluid fabrics for spring - Chiffon, Crepe de Chine, Jersey - the softer the better. As far as detailing, we are updating styles with asymmetrical hems and pleating.