Now that the economy has started to pick up a bit, maybe you’re hoping to get the hell out of Dodge (aka your current low-paying job). But how to update your trusty interview suit? Swap in a delicate chiffon blouse, Ms. H, since it’s no longer de rigueur to simply dress like the boys. This Kenneth Cole style’s cowl neck adds interest on top, while the hem flaring from a stretch drop-waist creates a little hip curvature. The gentle draping also serves as a lovely counterpoint to the structure of a jacket and trousers. Since your shape can handle larger prints, the abstract motif is an excellent choice: its graphic nature feels businesslike, but the soft brushstrokes and the top’s graceful silhouette keep the look feminine. (Interviewing in a more conservative industry? Try this classic Farinaz shirt with waist-shaping seaming.) Who says pretty can’t be professional?

Suits are a work requirement for many of us, as well as for those who are interviewing. The really fun part of a suit, of course, is the top you wear with it. Any top should skim close to the body so a jacket can easily be worn over it. Also, in summer heat, a sleeveless style makes sense. This lovely look, A, brims with brilliance from the glorious berry color to the asymmetrical ruffle, both of which work to balance your shape. The neckline is appropriate for the office, and the bust darts add nice shaping. Not quite conservative enough for your job hunt? Try this Farinaz classic.

Listen, P: we get it. Interviews are stressful enough without worrying if the buttons on your shirt are strong enough to rein in your assets. But never fear! We’ve found the perfect interview top: sleek, feminine, ideal under suits and specifically designed to work with your curves. A V-neck extends the length of the chest, while princess seams and bust darts elegantly envelop your endowments without any awkward bunching. An empire seam provides structural support while highlighting the slimmest part of the waist. This shirt is truly an interview essential, because if you’re confident your curves are covered, you can focus on your career.

Congratulations, E, you’ve landed an interview in which suits and solids are required. Now the trick is to dress for someone else but to feel like your best self. The right blouse can help. Consider a soft jersey or silky woven to offset a tailored look. A scoop neck and banded cowl gracefully frame the face. Gentle pleats can balance the shoulders and hips while providing fluid, midriff-skimming drape. Cap sleeves don’t bulk up yet offer ample coverage if you need to remove your jacket. So if an HR manager asks about your strengths, you’ve already proven that you can be comfortable in any situation.

What to wear when it’s hotter than hell? Nothing beats a strappy linen dress. The embroidered surplice bodice of this airy style plays up the bust, then ends in an empire waist that nips in at what’s often the slimmest part of an M. The 100% linen fabric drapes with ease, neither clinging nor adding bulk, keeping you both cool and curvy, while adjustable straps let you customize the fit. The obvious companions to this dress: sandals and a straw tote. But the embroidery and mother-of-pearl buttons in back make it dressy enough for a steamy evening out when you add open-toe slingbacks and a metallic handbag.

Trousers are not an obvious choice when the thermometer is soaring upwards of 100 degrees. But there may be any number of reasons you select them on a blazing hot day. Maybe you don’t like your legs. Maybe you didn’t shave. Maybe you’re wearing a knee brace. Whatever the reason, take full advantage of being a Y, Y, and select a light-colored pair with a natural fiber content and an extra-wide leg. Cool, comfortable, and it instantly balances your proportions. A cotton or linen top that isn’t too blousy pairs perfectly. And since untucked is more comfortable than tucked, select a top that looks good out.

All it takes is that first trickle of perspiration down the décolletage, and suddenly, it’s like you’re starring in your own sartorial horror movie. (I Know What You Wore Last Summer, perhaps?) Walk into the light, Ms. S, with feather-weight cotton voile, airy linen and sheer wovens. A deep scoop neck opens up the shoulders and highlights cleavage, and spaghetti straps provide cool comfort. Gentle pleats and an elastic waist create a breezy blouson effect while keeping curves intact. As the barometer rises, let hemlines follow; pair with strappy heels to elongate the leg. Need to cover up? A lacy shrug will carry you through twilight.

Why swelter when you can sizzle (figuratively speaking, that is) in a sexy cotton-blend top that only clings where it counts? If you’re enduring triple-digit temperatures, H, we suggest slipping on this cool-as-can-be style from DKNY Jeans with metallic smocking that accents the décolletage and creates waist definition. A flirty peplum emphasizes the hips and—ta-da!—you’ve got curves. You’ll want to keep your look fitted below with this much volume on top, so pair with cut-off short shorts or slim-fitting bermudas. Either dark or white bottoms would create attractive contrast. To take this top from summer days to summer nights, coordinate with dressier shorts or capris, strappy heels and sparkling earrings: haute stuff!

It’s hotter than hot. You can’t even summon the energy to blink. But you still have to get dressed. (Unless your plan is to loll naked in front of an open refrigerator.) Keep cool, A, by covering up as little as is tastefully possible. A breathable cotton dress in a light color is perfect. And while you’re at it, why not go strapless? Smaller busts look sexy in a tube-style stretch bodice. A full skirt is sublime. That way, not only are your hips and thighs camouflaged, but cooling air can circulate around them. And skip a layering piece. If you’re worried about the sun, self-shade with a light-colored parasol.

The summer may be sweltering, but you, P, will look—and feel!—perfectly cool in a lightweight, breathable cotton skirt. Seek a flared style that lets the air circulate around your legs as it balances your proportions. The crinkled texture of this lovely skirt adds extra interest and subtly increases the volume. It also means this skirt packs like a dream for your summer getaway. Try pairing it with a close-fitting tank or a cami to show off your bust curve. Skirts are always a hot-weather wardrobe staple, so don’t hesitate to reach for one when the mercury rises.