Plus Size Fashion Do's And Don'ts

There are now many designers that are designing clothing that is flattering for the plus size woman. For many years it was next to impossible for the plus size woman to find a great dress for a special occasion. Mostly, all they had to choose from was a floral print sack, or a tent like black dress that was supposed to hide their size. Imagine going to a special occasion like a prom, wedding, dance or a party in that kind of dress. There is a lot more to choose from today, but you must still take into consideration your body type before deciding which is the best purchase.

Plus size women often fit into one of three figure types: apple, hourglass or pear. Women who have apple shaped figures are largest around their middle and have similar bust and waist measurements. Hourglass shaped ladies have their weight evenly distributed on their body with the bust and hips having the most balanced measurements of the three. Finally, pear shaped women carry their weight mostly in their hips. When looking for a flattering dress it is important for women to know their shape to prevent the dress from being too tight in one area but too loose in another.

Be sure to select a size that words with your measurements, not an arbitrary number you believe you should fit into. Manufacturers design clothes so differently that the sizes on the items mean very little nowadays. You might think about underwear that smooths the outline of your body under the gown, which prevents visible lumps and other distortions.

The color black has always been known to help to make women look slimmer. For years the plus size woman has been told that she must wear black to look a smaller size. Black does flatter some women, but some larger women would like to get rid of most of the black outfits. They yearn to wear color. There's really no reason not to wear color if you want to. Look carefully in the mirror as you create your outfit, and remember to balance your colors.

Make sure that you try on all prospective outfits before buying them. Try to wear the shoes and undergarments you'll have on when you wear a dress. That way, you'll know that the hemline will be where you expect it to be, and you won't have any nasty surprises. Wearing a different bra can completely change the shape of a dress.

Last but not least, don't rule out a trip to the seamstress. If you find an otherwise flattering outfit that's just a little long, or needs to be taken in a little, your local alterations shop can often make it fit the bill. Fashions are designed for a body that doesn't exist. Remember to take the initiative to make them fit yours.