Plus-size sounds so, well, fat. But really I would say "full figured" is more accurate. I think the women pictured in this post are not fat. So, this gets us to a designer, Charles Chang-Lima, who is creating high fashion just for women sizes 12-20. I think that's great, because typically haute couture only goes up to size 8, so voluptious fashion lovers get slim pickings.

Above left, this stretch crepe sheath ($1,395) is flatteringly draped and it makes her feel "totally unconstrained and totally pulled together". - quote from the model.

Above right, appropriate for an ample bust, the satin organza dress offers upper-arm coverage, while flattering the figure.

A formfitting skirt or jersey tee can be surprisingly sensuous when you've got an honest-to-God female body to show off. The pinstriped skirt ($695) and floral silk shirt ($1,050), unbuttoned for a glimpse of black lace bra, left, are "very 'sexy secretary,'" Julia (the model) says. "I would totally wear this to work." This silk satin skirt ($1,050), (left), has stitched-down pleats (the slimming kind); a crepe-knit top ($775) is stabilizing for the well-endowed because the dense material "makes you feel like you have another layer of support," says account executive Ida Schaefer (right model), 27. Black with burgundy is a nearly monochromatic pairing that ensures a sleek, continuous line.

The cropped satin faille jacket ($1,225) on 30-year-old Amy Chiang, a management consultant, could be described as fierce. Wide-legged, high-waisted trousers ($1,025) are a must-get for fall, says Chang-Lima: "They give the illusion of length."

This two-in-one sateen coat reversing to cozy bouclé has stylishly short, wide sleeves that invite layering, perhaps with bright gloves (Coach). It won't look bulky if you balance the volume with narrow pants ($725), as Ida has done here. A dependable everyday piece, this coat also cleans up nicely for night with a patent leather and suede clutch (Cole Haan).