Plus-size fashion is currently having a major moment. It is slowly taking over the industry, and more and more labels are finally expanding their brands with new plus-size lines and collections.
Beautiful, curvy women like Ashley Graham, featured in the Sports Illustrated 2015 Swimsuit issue, prove that beauty and sexiness come in all shapes and sizes.
Curvy model Ashley Graham attends the 2015 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue celebration at Marquee on February 10, 2015, in New York City (Credit: WENN)
Shopping for plus-size clothing may be challenging, especially since the majority of today’s big brands only cater to certain sizes, leaving very few options to choose from.
However, if you know where to shop and what to wear, looking good with all your curves will be easy and effortless.
Choosing clothes that flatter your specific shape, rather than just size, can make a big difference
Here are some of the best style tips from the expert stylists in the industry:
1. Accentuating Your Best Features: A Guide to Flattering Plus-Size Fashion
No one else but you know your body best. Find something about your figure that you love, and show it off for people to admire.
Whether it’s your showstopping cleavage, flawless legs, or ample behind, recognize what features you love best and are most comfortable to present to the public.
Melissa McCarthy is renowned for her stylish approach to plus-size fashion, often showcasing outfits that combine elegance, comfort, and a unique flair.
At the UK premiere of ‘The Little Mermaid’ in London on May 15, 2023, Melissa McCarthy captivated attention in a pink Valentino ruffled gown and striking footwear, complemented by Gismondi 1754’s luxurious diamond jewelry (Credit: Dutch Press Photo / Cover Images)
Remember to pick just one part to showcase; displaying everything will make you look tacky regardless of your size.
2. Mastering the Art of Concealment: Dressing with Confidence
While you have your best features, there are also the not-so-appealing ones that you might feel should be hidden from prying eyes.
You might not be happy with some body parts because of factors like cellulite, scarring, saggy skin, etc.
Meghan Trainor at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on February 8, 2014 (Credit: WENN)
Exposing parts that you do not feel comfortable sharing with other people may just dwindle your confidence, which will have a great effect on your overall look. A simple style fix is to conceal these parts with sheer fabric or a nice cover-up.
3. Breaking the Mold: Experimenting with Bold Plus-Size Styles
It might be tempting to stick to the usual pieces in your closet and to keep using the always-slimming black as your go-to color, but stepping out of your comfort zone most often gives positive results.
To discover the trends that fit you best, you have to do some trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new styles. If you get one wrong, there is always tomorrow to try out another style.
4. Shopping Smart: Finding the Best Plus-Size Fashion Destinations
One of the worst mistakes to make is to shop in a store that doesn’t cater to your size. Avoid snobbish boutiques that only have sample sizes. More and more stores are now adding plus-size clothing to their lists; find those.
Bloggers Gabi Gregg, Chastity Garner, and Nicolette Mason wearing Ava & Viv by Target (Credit: Target)
Target launched Ava & Viv a few years ago, a new women’s plus-size clothing line. Crafted by Target’s in-house design team, the fresh label has affordable and trendy pieces made especially for curvy women.
Aside from Target’s new line, retailers like Nordstrom and Amazon carry plus sizes. Here are some lovely dresses that are also budget-friendly:
Ava & Viv Women’s Plus-Size Short-Sleeve Dress, $27.99
ELOQUII Print Block Cutout Dress, $118
Julia Jordan Houndstooth Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress, $138
Calvin Klein Embellished Neck Matte Jersey Sheath Dress, $124
London Times Print Side Ruched Matte Jersey Dress, $78