For a lot of ladies who are on the bigger side (that is, compared to typical female sizes retail stores cater to), dressing up can be quite a challenge. It’s not because there aren’t enough plus-size provisions out there — because there are, especially now that more and more stores are becoming inclusive. The real challenge, then, is that it’s more about just having a whole lot of body to work with.
If you’re a plus-sized woman, indeed, the balancing act with clothes so you don’t look bigger than you actually are can prove tricky. But, don’t you fret, help is available here.
Provided below are some of the best lessons when it comes to dressing as a plus-sized woman.
Lesson 1: You can wear anything.
There’s been the longstanding belief that plus-sized women should only wear certain styles of clothes, and venturing out of these styles will prove catastrophic fashion-wise. But, the reality is that any style will look good on your body as long as it fits you right.
Therefore, have your outfits tailored to fit. Even stores that specialize in plus-size clothing cannot make clothes that’ll fit you perfectly. Rely on the meticulous process of a tailor in getting your clothes to fit you right. Tailored garments will not only fit your unique shape, but will also make you look ten pounds lighter.
Lesson 2: Fitted clothes will flatter your curves.
A lot of plus-sized women usually gravitate toward baggy or boxy clothing to conceal their unique shape. Most of them say that such styles of clothing are also more comfortable.
But, if you are looking to refine your style, do not shy away from fitted clothing. Slim-fitting dresses can be quite flattering. They hang on the curves that matter and conceal the sins. Plus, such dresses intended for plus-sized women often come with ruching, mainly around the midsection. This construction detail creates the illusion of a flatter stomach by camouflaging love handles and bumps well.
Lesson 3: Cropped layering pieces will give your outfit a tighter silhouette.
Structured and cropped layering pieces such as denim jackets with patches, can really pull in an outfit. Billowy dresses automatically look tailored and slim-fitting once you wear a cropped jacket, cardigan, or even a shirt.
So, invest in a few cropped pieces to switch up the style of some of the reliably comfy pieces in your wardrobe.
Lesson 4: Big prints are okay.
Another design that most plus-sized women avoid is big prints because these are believed to emphasize the look of curves. According to top stylists for Rubenesque women, big prints are always a go if you like them. But, try to break them up with a block of color.
For example, you have those colorful African tribal print pieces, which, by the way, are all the rage this season; just go ahead and wear them as often as you please. However, if you want to make them totally flattering on your curvy body, wear the print on your best asset and then break it up with a piece done in a solid color, such as an obi or a high-waisted skirt.
Doing this will bring attention to the print, but it will also define your womanly figure nicely.
Lesson 5: Elongate your body.
One of the most reliable outfit-balancing tricks is to wear high heels. Whether you’re wearing trousers or a dress, the instant lift will make you look and feel more svelte.
Now, if you find high heels too punishing for your feet because you’re heavy on top, opt for wedges. These will provide your arches with better support while perking up your silhouette. And, if you want to make yourself look even taller, opt for nude-colored shoes. The color continuity will make your legs look slimmer and longer.
Lesson 6: Show off your neckline.
It’s amazing how a lower neckline can instantly make the fit of an outfit more flattering. So, wear more of the pieces that either have a deep V or square neckline, which is quite trendy these days.
According to wedding dress designers in Dubai, a lower neckline will bring attention to your face. It will also elongate your upper torso, which has long been known to create a slimming effect. This is the reason why they always pay close attention to the neckline of their designs because it truly can make a whole world of difference in the way dresses flatter the wearer.
Lesson 7: Invest in high-performing underwear.
To make any outfit look smashing on you, you need to be wearing high-quality underwear. Get the perfect fit of a bra (there are tips available online on how to find the best bra for you) and opt for supportive, seamless panties.
Do consider shapewear, as well. Spanx is the secret behind the tight bodies on the red carpet, no matter the shape and size of the women. It smooths out lines and puts the curves where they need to be. Also, with shapewear, your posture is supported. Therefore, your body also gets to do its bit in creating a lovely feminine figure.
Lesson 8: Study your color.
Take into consideration your color season. You can take a test online to determine the colors that work to bring out your hair and eye colors, complexion, and undertone beautifully.
This is just a small detail that you can take into account when dressing up or applying makeup, but it can make a big difference in your overall appearance. This can take a fantastic style and the fit of your clothes to a whole new level of polished aesthetics.
Read More: How can I dress more fashionable?
Lesson 9: Pull your hair up.
You’ll be surprised by how a short hairstyle or pulled up hair can make your entire look not just polished but slimming, as well. Professional hairstylists say such hairstyles draw attention to the neckline, and give the whole body a lifted appearance.
This styling trick is most helpful if you’re on the petite side, and you also have a short neck.
So, take these lessons to heart, and start practicing them, so that someday soon, dressing up your curvy body nicely will be a breeze.
