let’s face it…we come in all shapes and sizes…some small…some bigger…but all beautiful…some of my most fabulous clients are plus size…and as a wardrobe consultant…i do have to say…that it is a bit more of a challenge…not because of these bodies…but in the fashion world…the larger the size…the smaller the pickings…but…with that said…there are some great choices out there…so here are some tips in dressing those beautiful plus size bodies…
know your shape & dress it accordingly – for example, if you carry most of your weight in the bottom, balance your proportions by wearing darker colors on the bottom and putting colorful accents at or above the waist…if you have thinner legs and a fuller upper body, enjoy a patterned or colorful pant and keep it simple at the top…
don’t shy away from prints & color – a good way to use color is by selecting dresses that are color blocked…if the center of the dress is brighter and the edges are darker, your eye will be drawn into the middle and will naturally create a slimming effect…
prints should relate to your scale – look for polka dots, stripes, florals, or paisleys in medium-to-large scale designs…tiny prints will make you look out of proportion…
let set-in seams, darts, ruching, and peplums create curves – artful seaming and ruching in tops will grace your curves and skim your body without making garments feel too tight…look to jackets with darts or peplums to flatter your figure…
dresses are your friends – a fit and flare dress with an empire-waist is flattering on most figures…a wrap dress adds definition to the waistline and the easy flare of the skirt is flattering over fuller hips or thighs…fully-lined sheath dresses smooth out the figure…
beware of too much volume – avoid excessive volume such as too large ruffles, too many layers of fabric or pant legs or jacket sleeves that are too long…make one part of your outfit more slimming…A full skirt needs a trim top…a full top needs a slim skirt or pant…anything too tight or too loose will add pounds…
curb the shine – shiny fabrics draw more attention to wherever they’re placed…if you’re self-conscious of your thighs, don’t wear a satin pant…likewise, if you have a full bust, a shiny silk blouse will make that area look fuller…leather trim will add shine in smaller doses in details like pockets, sleeves or piping…this is a great way to enjoy shine without it being overwhelming…feel free to add shine in accessories…
adjust necklaces to fit – standard necklaces are often too short and need extenders…necklace extenders can be purchased at a jewelry counter or ordered online…generally the scale of necklaces and earrings are best if they’re medium to large…avoid tiny watchbands…create more volume by layering bracelets or necklaces…
use shapewear to create smooth lines – spanx or other shapewear products found in lingerie stores or lingerie departments is great for under formal, form-fitting dresses or skirts…they help create a sleek foundation and give you confidence to wear body-hugging shapes…
if you are looking for inspiration…please check out my plus size pinterest board…i am always adding stylish outfit ideas for the fabulous plus size ladies…
