Plus Size Figures

Women with curvy, plus-size figures also struggle when shopping or creating everyday looks. Aside from the fact that many brands do not carry various plus-size items, finding the right fit or the most flattering style and cut can also be challenging.

Additionally, it can be difficult to find clothes that will not hide your body in oversized baggy garments but highlight your natural silhouette and best features. 

Fear not! We’re here to help you with recommendations to make your life easier.

General Styling Tips

Your main goal when putting together outfits should be to achieve a balanced look. For example, if you picked a flowy top, consider wearing a fitted bottom or vice versa. 

Always opt for tailored, structured garments to help define your shape and make you look polished. 
Remember as well that knowing your body type is essential for choosing clothes that highlight your best features. For instance, if you have an apple body shape, your outfits should show off your legs and neckline.

 If you have a rectangular body shape, you should choose tops that showcase your curves and prevent a boxy silhouette.

Check our detailed article about body shapes if you want to know more about how to dress according to yours.

Clothing Recommendations

• V-neck tops can make larger busts appear smaller.
• If you want to achieve a flattering hourglass shape, choose A-line dresses, which are fitted at the top and flared out at the waist.
• Wrap and empire-waist tops and dresses are fantastic choices to define the waist.
• Opt for high- to mid-rise bottoms to skim your figure and elongate the legs. Great options include boot-cut, flare, and straight jeans/trousers.
• Find supportive bras, lingerie, and shapewear to smooth out the midsection/thighs.
• For outerwear, choose structured blazers and jackets that will create a waistline and a streamlined shape.
• Avoid baggy and oversized clothes that will make you look boxy; instead, choose items in your size that are more fitted and will highlight your unique features.

Specific Color, Fabric, and Pattern Recommendations

• Opt for fabrics that drape your body well and have a bit of stretch to ensure a flattering but comfortable fit; jersey, cotton blends, and spandex are good choices.
• For a feminine silhouette, go for soft and flowy materials like linen, viscose, chiffon, and silk. These are particularly excellent for summer outfits.
• Avoid stiff and superheavy fabrics, which can add extra bulk to your body.
• Pick garments with vertical patterns that elongate your figure.
• Experiment with color blocking and pattern combinations to achieve a flattering silhouette. For areas you want to camouflage, choose dark shades. For those you want to highlight, pick bright colors, embellishments, and prints.

What to Avoid

While fashion is all about expressing yourself and embracing your unique shape, there are a few things to consider that can sometimes make your outfit feel less flattering.

• Baggy or oversized clothing. These garments may not show off your natural shape and can make you feel hidden under layers. Instead, try clothes that fit comfortably and gently follow your curves, offering a more balanced silhouette.
• High-neck tops. High necklines can make the upper body feel constricted and shorten the appearance of your neck. Instead, explore V-neck or scoop-neck tops that create a longer, more open neckline, making you feel freer and more confident.
• Flat, shapeless dresses. While comfort is key, dresses that lack structure may highlight your beautiful curves less than you'd like. Dresses with defined waistlines or wrap styles are wonderful choices to enhance your natural shape and create a more flattering outline.

Remember, fashion is all about making you feel good in your own skin — these tips are just a guide to help you embrace your style and show off your beautiful, unique figure!