Dressing the right side of sexy

a woman with brown hairSo you're feeling a bit sexy and little flirty, and you want to dress that way. But you don't want to look like you're trying too hard, and you definitely don't want an outfit that says 'I'm here for the taking'

Look for pieces with flirtatious elements, advises Tracy Wilkinson, designer for Mon Petit Oiseau. 'Go for details like a draped neckline or pretty ruffles,' she says. 'Elements like fabric and cut will gently allude to your sexuality.'

Consider these looks that are sexy yet casual, comfy and feminine:

Try a flowing chiffon skirt

A floaty, airy chiffon skirt designed to graze your curves, not hug them, is incredibly alluring. Soft layers of sheer chiffon will sweep over your hips and thighs in a most womanly way. Wear the skirt with a pair of funky cowboy or Frye boots to keep the look from being too fussy.

Team a camisole with a comfy, oversized sweater Any kind of camisole - lace, satin or cotton - worn under a soft old jumper is unassumingly sexy. Our favourite camisoles have a 'princess seam'. That's a seam line that travels down from the shoulder over the bust and form-fits the waist. Wear this with a drapey, bias-cut skirt.

Invest in a great-fitting bra

We believe wearing pretty lingerie allows you to feel special in a personal way that will speak volumes, albeit discreetly. But it's important that the bra fits perfectly, that it supports and shapes your breasts well. Take the time to get fitted at a specialty store. You won't regret it.

As for choosing a sexy bra, the detail is in the fabric and trimming. Satin fabrics look best under outer apparel, because nothing will snag over them (as opposed to lacy bras, for example, which show through knits). If you think your bra might peek through your blouse, find one with a pretty trim.

Show some leg

You don't need a mini skirt to show off smooth, bare legs, just great shoes or boots. But if a mini is your thing, pair a classic oversized men's-style jumper with an itsy-bitsy denim skirt. You can top this look off with a slouchy knee-high or calf-high boot, but not a high heel or you'll throw off the equation. Loafers look great too.

Accent on your neck

Wearing shirts, tops and jumpers that emphasise your neck and collarbone can be just as sexy as exposing your cleavage. Pay homage to your upper chest by wearing a top with a neckline that doesn't dip beneath the cleft of your breasts.

This will bring focus to the line of the neck. And the idea is to hint, not holler, which can only be achieved by alluding to what's mostly concealed. Pair this top with faded jeans (that aren't too tight).