As a fashion stylist and editor with over a decade of experience in the plus-size industry, I’ve seen firsthand how the right outfit can transform not just a look, but also confidence. Fashion has the power to empower women of all sizes, and I’m thrilled to share some game-changing plus size style tips that I’ve gathered over the years.
Having worked with countless curvy women, I’ve helped them discover how to dress with style and flair. Whether you’re just starting your fashion journey or looking to refresh your wardrobe, these 12 plus size style tips will help you shine with confidence and grace. Let’s dive in!
1. Embracing Your Body
The first step in mastering plus size fashion is embracing your beautiful, curvy body. I can’t stress enough how important this is. As a plus size woman myself, I know it can be challenging, but it’s the foundation of great style.
I always tell my clients to focus on dressing for their current body, not the one they hope to have in the future. I believe strongly that when you accept and love your body as it is, you’ll feel more confident in your clothes. This confidence is the best accessory you can wear!
I recommend starting each day with a positive affirmation about your body. I personally like to stand in front of the mirror and say, “I am beautiful and worthy of stylish clothes.” It might feel silly at first, but I’ve noticed a huge difference in my confidence since I started this practice.
2. Understanding Your Body
The second step in mastering plus size fashion is understanding your unique body shape and proportions. I can’t stress enough how important this is for creating flattering outfits.
Know your measurements
I always start by helping my clients take accurate measurements. You’d be surprised how many women I’ve worked with who were wearing the wrong size simply because they didn’t know their true measurements!
To get started, grab a soft measuring tape and measure your bust (fullest part), waist (smallest part), and hips (widest part). I recommend writing these numbers down or keeping them in a note on your phone. Trust me, it’ll make shopping so much easier!
Determine your body type
Once you have your measurements, you can determine your body type. The most common shapes are pear, apple, hourglass, and rectangle. I personally have a pear shape, which means my hips are wider than my shoulders.
Knowing your body type is crucial for learning how to dress as a plus size woman. Each shape has its own styling tricks that can help you look and feel your best. For example, as a pear shape, I love tops that balance out my wider hips, like boat necks or statement necklaces that draw the eye upward.
Identify your ideal color palette
I’m a big believer in the power of color to enhance your natural beauty. Your skin tone can help determine which colors look best on you. I was amazed at how much more confident I felt once I started wearing colors that truly complemented my complexion.
There are typically four color seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. I’m an Autumn, which means I look best in warm, rich colors like deep reds, oranges, and browns. Figuring out your color season can be a game-changer for your wardrobe!
3. Finding the Right Fit
When it comes to plus size style tips, finding the right fit is absolutely crucial. I can’t stress this enough!
Importance of proper fit
Fit is everything in fashion, regardless of size. But for plus size women, it’s even more critical. Our bodies are wonderfully diverse, which means that even women who wear the same size can have very different fits in the same garment.
I’ve noticed that factors like arm length, height, and body shape all play a role in how clothing fits. This is why buying clothes “off the rack” can be so challenging for curvy women. But don’t worry, there are solutions!
Tailoring and alterations
I always tell my clients that a good tailor is a plus size woman’s best friend. I was surprised to discover how affordable tailoring can be. For example, I recently paid just $7 to have a pair of pants hemmed.
Investing in tailoring can transform an okay piece into a perfect fit. I personally have several items in my wardrobe that I love thanks to a few strategic alterations.
Custom clothing options
If you’re struggling to find clothes that fit well, consider custom options. I’m a huge fan of Eshakti, which offers affordable custom clothing in any size. You can even customize things like neckline, sleeve length, and garment length. It’s like having a personal designer!
Ignore size labels, focus on fit and feel
One of the most liberating plus size fashion tips I can offer is to ignore the size on the label. I’ve worn everything from a size 14 to a size 22 depending on the brand. Size is just a number, what matters is how the garment fits and feels on your body.
Using size charts when shopping online
When shopping online, always check the size chart. I find it helpful to compare my measurements to the chart rather than relying on my usual size. This has saved me from many ill-fitting purchases!
4. Wardrobe Essentials
Building a versatile wardrobe starts with having the right essentials. These are the pieces that will form the foundation of your outfits.
Invest in quality basics
I always recommend investing in high-quality basics. A well-made white t-shirt, a perfect-fitting pair of jeans, and a classic blazer are worth their weight in gold. I personally love brands like Universal Standard for their high-quality basics in a wide range of sizes.
Versatile pieces for mix-and-match
Creating a capsule wardrobe has been a game-changer for me. I love having pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. A few of my favorites include a wrap dress, a midi skirt, and a couple of nice blouses.
Importance of proper undergarments
Never underestimate the power of good undergarments! A well-fitting bra can completely transform how your clothes look. I was amazed at the difference when I finally got properly fitted for a bra. It’s like an instant makeover!
Shapewear
Shapewear can be a great tool, but it’s not necessary for everyone. I personally use shapewear for certain outfits, but I don’t rely on it daily. The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
5. Flattering Clothing Styles
Certain styles tend to be universally flattering for plus size bodies. Here are some of my favorites:
Wrap dresses and tops
I’m obsessed with wrap styles. They create a beautiful V-neckline that elongates the neck and define the waist beautifully. I own several wrap dresses and they never fail to make me feel confident.
A-line and fit-and-flare silhouettes
These styles are fantastic for creating a balanced silhouette. They nip in at the waist and flare out over the hips, creating a beautiful shape. I have a fit-and-flare dress that always gets compliments when I wear it.
Shirred and gathered fabrics
I love clothes with ruching or gathering. These details can help camouflage areas you might feel self-conscious about while highlighting your curves. I have a ruched top that I wear constantly because it’s so comfortable and flattering.
Lace-up details for adjustability
Lace-up styles are great because they allow you to adjust the fit. I have a lace-up top that I can loosen or tighten depending on how I want it to fit that day.
Elongating techniques
Vertical stripes and monochrome outfits can create the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette. I’m a big fan of wearing all black for a sleek, elongated look.
6. Styling Tips
Here are some of my favorite styling tricks for plus size fashion:
Defining the waist
Don’t be afraid of belts! I know many plus size women shy away from belts, but I think they’re a fantastic way to define your waist and create shape. I have a collection of wide belts that I use to cinch in dresses and long tops.
Balancing proportions
I always recommend balancing fitted pieces with looser ones. For example, if you’re wearing skinny jeans, try pairing them with a flowy top. This creates a balanced, harmonious look.
Using prints strategically
Prints can be your friend! I love using prints to draw attention where I want it. A printed top can balance out wider hips, while a printed skirt can add curves to a straighter figure.
Layering with jackets and cardigans
Layering is a great way to add interest to an outfit. I’m a big fan of long cardigans and structured blazers. They can instantly elevate a simple outfit.
Showing skin strategically
Remember, you don’t have to show a lot of skin to look sexy. I love outfits that show just a hint of skin, like a top with a subtle keyhole or a skirt with a small slit. It’s all about balance!
7. Accessorizing
Accessories can make or break an outfit. Here are my top tips:
Statement jewelry
I’m a big believer in the power of accessories to elevate an outfit. A statement necklace or a beautiful scarf can draw the eye where you want it to go. I personally love bold earrings – they frame the face beautifully and add a touch of glamour to any outfit.
Belts for waist definition
As I mentioned earlier, belts are a great tool for defining your waist. I have belts in various widths and styles to suit different outfits.
Shoes that elongate the leg
The right shoes can make your legs look longer and leaner. I’m a fan of pointed-toe flats and heels with a bit of a platform. They add height without sacrificing comfort.
8. Embracing Trends
One of the most important plus size style tips I can offer is to not be afraid of trends! I was thrilled when plus size fashion finally started embracing current trends. Now, curvy women have more options than ever before.
I always encourage my clients to try new styles. You might be surprised by what looks great on you! I recently tried the off-shoulder trend and was amazed by how much I loved it. It’s now one of my favorite summer looks.
That being said, I also believe in building a wardrobe with classic pieces that will stand the test of time. I think a good balance is about 80% classic pieces and 20% trendier items. This way, you always have something stylish to wear, but you’re not constantly replacing your entire wardrobe.
9. Shopping Tips
Shopping as a plus size woman can be challenging, but it’s gotten so much better in recent years. Here are my tips:
Where to shop for plus size fashion
I’m a fan of stores that cater specifically to plus sizes, as they often have a better understanding of curvy bodies. Some of my favorites include Torrid, Lane Bryant, and ELOQUII.
Online shopping strategies
I love online shopping because many brands offer a wider range of sizes online than they do in stores. Always read customer reviews and check the size chart before purchasing.
Trying clothing rental services
Clothing rental services can be a great way to try new styles without committing to buying them. I’ve had great experiences with Gwynnie Bee and Rent the Runway.
10. Building Confidence
Confidence is the best accessory you can wear. Here’s how to boost yours:
Self-care and its impact on style
I find that when I take care of myself, I feel more confident in my clothes. This includes everything from getting enough sleep to practicing positive self-talk.
Finding inspiration from plus size influencers
Following plus size influencers on social media can be a great source of inspiration. Some of my favorites include Ashley Graham, Tess Holliday, and Gabi Fresh.
Joining plus size fashion communities
I’ve found so much support and inspiration in online plus size fashion communities. It’s wonderful to connect with other women who understand the unique challenges and joys of dressing a curvy body.
11. Dressing for Different Occasions
Knowing how to dress as a plus size woman for different occasions is crucial. For work, I usually opt for well-fitted trousers or a pencil skirt paired with a blouse and blazer. I find this combination to be professional and flattering.
For casual outings, I love a good pair of dark wash jeans paired with a cute top. Add some statement jewelry and you’re good to go! I personally own several pairs of well-fitted jeans in different washes – they’re the backbone of my casual wardrobe.
When it comes to formal events, don’t be afraid to go glam! I’m a big fan of long, flowing dresses for plus size women. They’re elegant and comfortable. I have a floor-length navy blue gown that makes me feel like a million bucks every time I wear it.
12. Breaking Fashion Rules
One of my favorite plus size style tips is to break the so-called “fashion rules” for curvy women. I can’t resist wearing horizontal stripes, even though we’re often told to avoid them. I think they look great when styled correctly!
I also love crop tops on plus size bodies. I pair mine with high-waisted bottoms for a fun and flirty look. I was surprised to find how much I enjoyed this trend once I tried it.
Remember, these “rules” were often created by people who didn’t understand or appreciate curvy bodies. I believe that if you love how something looks and feels on you, you should wear it with confidence!
In conclusion, learning how to dress as a plus size woman is all about understanding your body, finding what makes you feel confident, and having fun with fashion. I hope these plus size fashion tips help you on your style journey. Remember, you are beautiful and deserving of clothes that make you feel amazing. Embrace your curves and let your style shine!
I’d love to hear about your favorite plus size style tips. What makes you feel most confident? Share in the comments below!