If you're like most ladies and want the strength and confidence, but without all the bulk, sticking to heavier weight (with good form) and lower reps (3 - 5 sets and between 3 - 5 reps for main lifts such as squats, deadlifts, bench press, and 3 - 4 sets of 6 - 10 reps for accessory work like
hamstring curls, tricep pushdowns, and shoulder raises,
etc.) would be the best route for you.