A successful search for flattering clothes begins with a good understanding of the shape of your body. The good news is that there are now so many different plus size clothing options out there, not matter what your shape you will find clothes that make you look fabulous. You just need to understand what clothes will work for you and then go out and find them!
Let’s begin with understanding your body type. Women’s bodies (whether they are generous plus sizes or have too much room in a size zero) can be categorized into four main types:
Pear-shape: many of us out there have a pear shaped body. This means you have a curvy bottom half with rounded hips and full thighs, but that your upper body is more slender. Your hip measurement will be larger than your bust measurement and when looking at yourself in the mirror you should be able to visualize your shape as a triangle from your bust to your hips.
Apple-shape: If a pear shape can be characterized as an upward triangle, then an apple shape can be described as a downward triangle. You will have relatively broad shoulders and bust, with narrower hips. Your narrowest point is likely above your natural waist, by your ribs.
Hour glass: an hour glass shape is characterized by a full bust and full hips, separated by a smaller, well defined waist.
Straight: A straight body type is, broadly speaking, rectangular shaped. If you have a straight body type, your waist measurement is likely to be fewer than 9 inches smaller than your hip or bust measurement.
Now that you know your body type, let’s find the perfect plus size dress.
Pear shape: Look for plus size dresses that both enhance your upper body and draw the eye up, such as those with a fitted open neck, boat neck of scoop neck paired with a bold necklace. This will help widen your shoulders and balance your bottom half. Dark colors can stylishly camouflage your lower half and A-line skirts are great for hiding wide hips. A great pair of heels can slim your legs – opt for a heavier style heel (not a stiletto) to help balance out your calves and be sure to avoid ankle straps and t-straps, which will only make your legs look larger.
Apple shape: Draw attention away from your middle by wearing plus size dresses with Empire waists (i.e. those that begin under the bust) which also typically have the added benefit of a looser fit around the waist. Choosing a fuller skirts can also to help balance your top and bottom halves. Detailing around the neck, including perhaps a bold necklace, will also help keep everyone’s eyes up. If they match the style of your dress, try out some heavier shoe styles to help balance your top half.
Hour glass: Plus size dresses with fitted waists will best flaunt what you have got! To make sure that you get a great fit, opt for a dress with an adjustable waist if possible.
Straight: Look for plus size dresses that help create curves in the right places, such as A line styles, or dresses with a fitted bodice or nipped waist and full skirt. Your upper body can be enhanced in dresses that feature embroidery or small patterns on the upper body.