We regularly look at evolving trends; the latest colours, cuts and lines. We love to check out the must-haves for every season. But when it comes to wardrobe staples and classic pieces, how do you choose wisely? Our tips for choosing plus size clothing will give you guidance on sizing, shape and fabrics. Sustainable fashion means combining elements of the seasonal trend with classic foundations. If you choose plus size pieces with set principles in mind, you’ll get the most out of these garments. More importantly, your wardrobe will support your comfort and confidence.
Our top ten tips for choosing plus size clothing:
1. Secure your foundation
First things first – everything starts with a foundation. So, with your selection of shapewear to hand, you’ll be well placed to shop til you drop. If your shapewear arsenal includes bodysuits, control briefs, shorts and slips, you’ll have a foundation for every occasion! Make sure you try on clothes with your shapewear on so you can see accurately how garments will hang.
2. Avoid extreme fittings
Both too tight and too loose should be avoided when you’re choosing plus size clothing. Basically follow the same principles as when you’re shopping for shapewear! Too tight and any interruptions to your line will be highlighted. Too oversized and the drape of the clothes may highlight unwanted bits!
3. Tailoring is worth it
Don’t be fooled into thinking that tailoring is just for celebrities and the super-rich! For the structured elements of your wardrobe to truly fit your shape, personal tailoring makes a huge difference. Since every shape is different, a tailored jacket or pair of trousers which is fitted to you will accentuate your curves the right way!
4. Don’t forget the shoes
We all know that heels lengthen the appearance of your legs, but you shouldn’t just mindlessly add heels to every outfit. Avoid ankle straps, which interrupt the line of your leg. Choose shoes that add a splash of colour and sparkle. Or if you need the comfort of flats, stick to neutral shades of the classic pump to give the most lengthening appearance.
5. Keep waistlines high
At the other end of your leg from your shoes is, of course, your waist! So to achieve the longest leg line, choose high waisted bottoms. From trousers to shorts to skirts, a high waist teemed with control briefs will smooth the line of your stomach and bring length to your bottom half.
6. Dress structure
When it comes to dresses, structured fabrics are a great plus size choice. These fabrics work with your shapewear to smooth your silhouette under your dress for a real wow factor. An A-line cut is great for smoothing the hips and building a lovely curve to your waist.
7. Pay attention to weight changes
If your weight fluctuates, shop with these changes. Make sure that your wardrobe, including your shapewear, is catered to the size that you are. You don’t have to have an entire wardrobe for every size, but a few key essentials and foundation garments will keep you feeling confident.
8. Shop for your body type
I think we can all agree that plus size is not an all-encompassing body type. So don’t choose garments that are simply ‘plus-size’. Shop for being an apple, pear or hourglass shape and you’ll come away with cuts and shapes that complement you far more accurately.
9. Choose your prints
Prints are bang on trend right now and show no signs of disappearing. Smaller, ditzy florals and spots tend to be more complimentary for plus sizes than bigger prints. But use layering to your advantage to mix, match and contrast your prints. This sense of dimension is not only stylish but helps to support a sense of shape.
10. Embrace colour correctly
Layering is also a fantastic way to bring colour into your outfit. Plus size shopping should not consist entirely of monochrome and neutrals. Neons and pastels look great in plus size styling, so go for layers, accessories, combinations and prints to make a splash!
At Elle Courbee we know that great outfits work from the foundation up. So our range of sizes, styles and configurations of shapewear will give you a positive foundation to shop confidently!
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.