As a plus-size woman, I have struggled to find clothes that fit me well and make me feel confident. However, with the rise of plus-size clothing stores, I have realized that I can still look fashionable and stylish despite my curves. It’s refreshing to see the fashion industry finally embracing different body types and acknowledging that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. These plus-size fashion tips and tricks have been a game-changer for me, as they help me enhance my figure in the best way and feel confident in my skin. It’s about time Curvy is the new black, and I couldn’t be happier about it!
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Plus-Size Fashion Tips
1. Don’t Be Afraid of Colour
When it comes to plus-size fashion, it can be tempting to stick to all-black outfits in hopes of appearing slimmer. But did you know that adding a pop of color to your outfit can actually highlight your best features? Bright hues or bold prints can draw the eye to areas you want to emphasize, while seam details like darts can give your body shape and definition. So don’t be afraid to play with colors and patterns because the right combination can create a stunning and confident look no matter what size you are!
2. Know Your Fabrics
Finding the right fabrics is key to feeling confident and fabulous. If you have curves, the goal is to highlight them in all the right ways. Scuba, stretch crepe, and double-faced viscose are the fabrics that will contour your creases and hug your figure, making you look more streamlined. Stay away from bulky fabrics like velvet and heavy wool, which can appear shapeless. And if there are areas of concern, high-sheen fabrics are not the way to go. They attract the light and can sometimes make you appear bigger. Instead, opt for matte fabrics that play down these areas.
3. Dress to Elongate Your Body
For those who wear plus-size fashion, it can be difficult to achieve that long, taller silhouette. However, by being mindful of the horizontal nature of weight, it becomes easier to dress in a way that creates the illusion of a longer figure. Consider wearing clothing in one color from head to toe to create a streamlined look, or opt for jeans with a higher rise to elongate the torso. Showing off your ankles and wrists in 3/4-sleeve tops, ankle-cropped pants, or midis can also showcase the slimmest parts of your frame. And don’t forget about shoes! Adding some elevation with a chunky lug or platform sole, a low block or kitten heel, or tapered, pointy-ish shoes can help elongate the legs and add height to your overall look.
4. Accentuate Your Waist
Being a plus-size woman can feel like an uphill battle. With weight gain often concentrated in the belly area, many women opt for looser, more forgiving clothing. However, belts can be a secret weapon for creating a flattering silhouette. If you have an hourglass shape or have lost definition in your midsection, a belt can quickly transform your look. Plus-size fashion options like shirtdresses, wrap dresses, and jumpsuits can all benefit from the addition of a well-placed belt. While some items come with their own cinchers, investing in a few special belts can help you personalize your wardrobe and feel confident in your style choices.
5. Skirt Length
Finding plus-size clothing that will flatter your figure can sometimes be a challenge. But fear not – there are simple tricks you can use to create a more flattering silhouette. One of them is choosing the right hemline for your skirt or dress. Hemlines that finish above or below the knee are great for making your legs look slimmer and longer. The key is to find the spot where your legs start becoming slimmer and opt for a hemline that hits that sweet spot. With this little tweak, you can transform your look and feel amazing in your own skin.
6. Balance Your Shapes
Flattering clothes are the key to boosting confidence. For plus-size women, clothes that enhance the hourglass shape can make all the difference. Choosing the right silhouettes can really pay off. For example, a pencil skirt paired with a looser top can be sexy yet sophisticated. Conversely, a slim-fitting top with a fuller skirt can add volume to the bottom half and create a balanced look. It’s also important to consider necklines; scoop, boat, and V-necks tend to flatter large busts more than round or high necks. With a little bit of attention to detail, finding stylish and comfortable plus-size fashion that enhances your figure is definitely within reach.
7. Keep It Simple
Plus-size fashion often gets a bad reputation for being unflattering and frumpy. But it doesn’t have to be that way. The key to looking and feeling your best is to keep it simple. Don’t be fooled into thinking that adding frills or ruffles will hide any imperfections – it will only add more volume. Instead, opt for sleek, streamlined pieces with basic prints and vertical lines to elongate your figure.
8. Embrace Shapewear
Having proper undergarments can completely transform the way your body looks and feels. No more unsightly lines or bulges – opting for seamless lingerie ensures a smooth and flattering silhouette. And for those looking for a little extra support, Spanx is a game-changer. The right bra can also make a world of difference, especially when it comes to enhancing your décolletage.
9. Wear Your Size
It is easy to fall into the trap of wanting to cover up our curves in oversized, baggy clothing. However, this can often have the opposite effect and make us look even bigger than we actually are. On the other hand, squeezing into clothes that are too small can be equally unflattering. If you’re on the lookout for plus-size fashion, it’s essential to find pieces that fit you perfectly, showing off your feminine shape in all its glory. Don’t be afraid to embrace your curves and experiment with different styles. With the right size and fit, you’ll be amazed at how much more confident and beautiful you feel in your clothes.
10. Love Your Curves
Knowing your body shape is important, no matter your size. For plus-size women, it’s essential to find clothing that fits you well, accentuates your curves, and makes you feel confident. You don’t have to follow any fashion rules or wear clothes that hide your body. Instead, choose outfits that highlight your best features. If you love your arms, show them off in a sleeveless top or a dress with flowy sleeves. If you’re not a fan of your thighs, try a midi skirt that falls just below the knee. Find plus-size fashion that flatters your figure and makes you feel great. Remember, feeling confident and comfortable is the key to looking good, no matter what size you are.
Plus-Size Fashion FAQ's
What kind of clothes look good on plus-size women?
The best clothes that look good on plus-size women are pencil skirts, wrap dressess, empire dresses, V-Neckline or Scoop Neckline tops and tailored clothing.
Is Chubby considered plus-size?
Chubby and plus-size are sometimes used interchangeably, but have different meanings. 'Chubby' describes those slightly overweight or rounder but still healthy. 'Plus-size' denotes those who wear larger sizes than traditional industry standards (typically size 14 and up). Being 'chubby' doesn't equate to being 'plus-size'.
Arabella Roden is a skilled writer and sub-editor with over ten years of experience across print, digital, and B2B. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and specializes in beauty, hairstyles, fashion, tattoos, and lifestyle topics. Arabella is currently the Chief Sub Editor at Mecca Brands and has been writing for The Trend Spotter since 2019.
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