Dulciana I know what you mean. I have been various sizes over the years but always the same short (petite) pear shape with a pot belly. I have always been one size smaller top than bottom too so dresses are definitely out.
I bought a lovely Jacques Vert dress for my daughter's wedding last year and had to pay almost as much again for a seamstress to adjust it to fit my shape.
I need an outfit for her best friend's wedding in September so will be looking at separates that I can buy in 2 different sizes