best bets

Best Bet: The Red-Hot Silk Dress

A night-out dress that’s both slinky and comfortable is hard to come by. This unexpected find from Loft flatters in all the right ways: The fluttery neckline is feminine without going overboard on the ruffles, the gathered elastic waist creates definition that’s still easy to wear (unlike the unforgiving, suck-in-your-stomach body-con trend), and the hem hits just above the knee to complement all heights; it also comes in petite sizes for those on the smaller side. And though it’s 100 percent silk, the price won’t blow your budget.

Flutter Silk Dress, $128 at Loft or online.

Best Bet: The Red-Hot Silk Dress