There's something about the phrase "body-conscious" that makes even the most secure woman cringe. Maybe the spandex revolution of the eighties/early nineties frightened you off the style and you fear that attempting it now will make you look like a Kelly Bundy manqué? (Uh, just a guess...) Well it's time to put away those fears and try the trend again. As illustrated by the fashion-forward figures above, it's possible to wear these bodysuit-like styles in a modern way.

Obviously this isn't the first time you've heard about the body-con look, as the tight silhouette made a big splash a few seasons back. We saw variations of this style on the spring runways (skinny little tops and dresses at Anna Molinari, fitted tucked-in tanks at DKNY) and assure you that it will still be a viable trend come fall. The tops in particular will look great with next season's full skirts and sky-high pumps.

We've noticed that many young celebrities are interpreting the runway look by opting for leotard-style tops and bodysuits. Emmy Rossum echoed the neat styles presented at DKNY when she tucked a formfitting cream top into a lipstick red pair of J & Company Beverly Jeans ($128). Rihanna chose a similarly sleek look for dinner at Da Silvano in New York. She paired a green Theory Simmons Bodysuit ($120) in Myrrh with her See by Chloe Patch Pocket Silk Mini($360). Lindsay Lohan is also suiting up as of late. She was spotted in American Apparel's Spandex Jersey Tank Thong ($22) in Lapis, faded black jeans, and white flats while out and about in Los Angeles last month.

In addition to the above-mentioned items, there are lots of body-conscious tops available now. If you'd like a classic dancer-style leotard, try Falke's Fine Cotton Bodysuit ($250) or ASOS's Ruched Front Strappy Bodysuit ($26). The BDG Double Scoop Tank ($18) is a great basic tank to have on hand and we also like Martin + Osa's Essential Tank ($15), which is available in eleven colors!

Simple form-fitting tops are certainly the most accessible way to try the look, but, if you've got a figure like Theodora Richards, by all means go for a body-con dress. Ms. Richards looked current and lovely in the American Apparel Cotton Spandex Jersey Double U-Neck Dress ($30) in Nude T she wore to a House of Campari party in New York. We also like the equally simple Riller & Fount Short Sleeve Jersey Dress ($115). Whatever body-con item you pick, we only ask that you keep your makeup minimal and your accessories modern!

Photo of Rihanna, Splash News.