Plus Size Fashion:100% The Ultimate Guide for Inspiration
Introduction to Plus Size Fashion
Plus size fashion isn’t just about clothing; it’s about embracing your curves and feeling confident in your own skin. Over the years, the fashion industry has made significant strides in catering to plus size women, celebrating diversity, and breaking down outdated beauty standards. Today, plus size fashion is all about self-expression, body positivity, and stylish options for every occasion.
The History of Plus Size Fashion
The journey of plus size fashion has been a transformative one. Early perceptions were limited and often marginalized plus size women, with fashion offerings that were few and far between. However, key milestones, such as the introduction of plus size lines by major fashion brands and the rise of plus size models like Ashley Graham, have shifted the narrative. Today, plus size fashion is a thriving segment, with a growing market and increasing representation.
Understanding Your Body Shape
Understanding your body shape is crucial in finding the most flattering styles. Plus size women come in various shapes, including pear, apple, hourglass, and rectangle. Knowing your shape helps in selecting clothing that accentuates your best features. For example, an hourglass figure benefits from fitted dresses that highlight the waist, while pear shapes look great in A-line skirts that balance out the hips.
Wardrobe Essentials for Plus Size Women
Every stylish wardrobe needs a solid foundation of essential pieces that are versatile, timeless, and flattering. Here are some must-have items for plus size women:
Fitted Blazer
A well-tailored blazer is a wardrobe staple. It can elevate a casual outfit or complement professional attire. Choose a blazer that cinches at the waist to accentuate your curves.
Dark Wash Jeans
Dark wash jeans are incredibly versatile and have a slimming effect. Look for styles with a bit of stretch for comfort and a better fit. They can be dressed up with a blouse and heels or down with a tee and sneakers.
Wrap Dress
Wrap dresses are universally flattering. They cinch at the waist and drape beautifully over curves, making them perfect for any occasion, from work to a night out.
Basic Tees and Tanks
Basic tees and tank tops are essential for layering. Choose high-quality, well-fitting options in neutral colors like white, black, and gray. These pieces can be paired with jeans, skirts, or layered under blazers and cardigans.
Little Black Dress (LBD)
The LBD is a timeless piece that every woman should own. It’s perfect for various occasions and can be styled in multiple ways with different accessories and shoes.
Statement Accessories
Accessories can transform an outfit. Invest in eye-catching jewelry, stylish scarves, fashionable belts, and chic handbags.These pieces add personality and flair to your look without requiring a complete wardrobe overhaul.
Comfortable Flats and Stylish Heels
Having a mix of comfortable flats and stylish heels is essential. Flats are great for everyday wear, while heels can elevate your look for more formal occasions.Opt for shoes that combine style with support.
Versatile Skirt
A versatile skirt, such as a pencil or A-line skirt, can be dressed up or down. Pair it with a blouse for a professional setting or a casual tee for a more laid-back vibe.
Classic Trench Coat
A classic trench coat is perfect for transitional weather. It adds a touch of elegance to any outfit and provides a flattering silhouette with its cinched waist.
Quality Undergarments
Well-fitting undergarments are the foundation of any outfit. Invest in quality bras and shapewear that provide support and smooth your silhouette. They can make a significant difference in how your clothes fit and feel.
Choosing the Right Fabrics
The right fabric can make all the difference. Fabrics like cotton, jersey, and spandex blend are great for their comfort and fit. They provide stretch and structure, flattering the plus size figure. On the other hand, stiff fabrics like polyester or anything too clingy can be unflattering. It’s best to opt for materials that drape well and enhance your natural shape.
Dressing for Different Occasions
Whether it’s casual wear, professional attire, or evening wear, there are plenty of stylish options:
Casual Wear
Opt for comfortable yet chic outfits like maxi dresses, leggings paired with tunic tops, or denim with stylish blouses.
Professional Attire
A well-fitted blazer, tailored pants, and a pencil skirt are essentials for the office.
Evening Wear
Embrace elegant gowns, cocktail dresses, and statement accessories for a stunning evening look.
Accessorizing Your Outfits
Accessories are key in transforming your outfits. They add personality and style. Belts can define your waist, statement jewelry can draw attention to your favorite features, and scarves can add a pop of color. When accessorizing, balance is crucial—don’t overdo it, but don’t be afraid to make a statement either.
Plus Size Fashion Trends
Keeping up with fashion trends can be fun and empowering, especially when you find styles that highlight your curves and enhance your confidence. Here are some of the hottest plus size fashion trends to embrace:
Bold Prints
Bold prints, including florals, animal prints, and geometric patterns, are making a strong statement in plus size fashion. Don’t shy away from eye-catching designs—they can add personality and flair to your wardrobe.Balance your outfit by pairing a bold print top with solid-colored bottoms.
Monochrome Outfits
Wearing a single color from head to toe can create a sleek and elongating effect. Monochrome outfits are not only stylish but also versatile. Experiment with different shades of the same color to add depth and interest to your look.
Athleisure
Athleisure continues to be a popular trend, blending comfort with style. Look for chic joggers, stylish leggings, and fashionable hoodies. These pieces can be worn for both casual outings and workouts, making them highly functional.
Maxi Dresses and Skirts
Maxi dresses and skirts are perfect for creating a feminine and effortless look. They provide comfort and style, making them ideal for various occasions. Choose flowing fabrics that drape beautifully over your curves.
High-Waisted Everything
High-waisted pants, skirts, and shorts are a flattering choice for plus size figures. They highlight the waist and create a balanced silhouette. Pair high-waisted items with cropped tops or tuck in your shirt to emphasize your waistline.
Statement Sleeves
Statement sleeves, such as bell sleeves, puff sleeves, and ruffles, add a touch of drama to any outfit. They can draw attention to your arms and create a balanced look, especially when paired with more fitted bottoms.
Layering Pieces
Layering is not only practical for varying weather but also a great way to add dimension to your outfits. Invest in lightweight cardigans, denim jackets, and longline vests. These pieces can be layered over dresses, tops, and even other jackets for a stylish look.
Crop Tops
Crop tops are no longer limited to straight sizes. Plus size crop tops can be worn with high-waisted jeans, skirts, or shorts. They are perfect for showcasing your midsection and can be dressed up or down.
Jumpsuits and Rompers
Jumpsuits and rompers offer a one-and-done outfit solution. Look for styles with defined waists and wide legs to create a balanced silhouette. They are perfect for both casual and formal events.
Sheer Fabrics
Sheer fabrics can add a touch of elegance and sexiness to your outfit. Look for tops, dresses, or skirts with sheer panels or overlays. They provide coverage while still showing a hint of skin.
Denim on Denim
The denim-on-denim trend, also known as the Canadian tuxedo, is making a comeback. Pair different shades of denim together, like a light wash denim jacket with dark wash jeans, for a stylish and cohesive look.
Metallics and Sequins
Metallic fabrics and sequins are perfect for adding a bit of sparkle to your wardrobe. These eye-catching materials are great for evening wear and special occasions. A sequined top or metallic skirt can be paired with simpler pieces for a balanced look.
Belted Everything
Belts are a great way to define your waist and add structure to your outfit. Look for dresses, coats, and tops with built-in belts or add your own to cinch in your waist and create a flattering shape.
Sustainable Fashion
Sustainability is a growing trend in the fashion industry. Look for plus size brands that use eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. Investing in sustainable fashion helps the environment and ensures you’re supporting responsible companies.
Vintage and Retro Styles
Vintage and retro-inspired styles are making a resurgence. Look for pieces with classic cuts, such as A-line dresses, wide-leg pants, and polka dot prints. These styles are timeless and add a touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe.
Shopping Tips for Plus Size Fashion
Shopping for plus size fashion can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience if you know where to look and what to look for. Here are some essential shopping tips to help you find the best styles and fits for your body:
Know Your Measurements
Before you start shopping, take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, hips, and inseam. This will help you find the right size and fit, especially when shopping online.
Understand Size Charts
Different brands have different size charts, so always check the specific size chart of the brand you’re buying from. Compare your measurements to their chart to ensure a good fit.
Look for Stretchy Fabrics
Fabrics with a bit of stretch, like spandex or elastane blends, can provide a better fit and more comfort. They move with your body and can be more forgiving.
Embrace Tailoring
Don’t be afraid to take your clothes to a tailor. A good tailor can make minor adjustments that ensure your clothes fit perfectly, enhancing your overall look.
Shop at Plus Size Stores
Many brands now offer dedicated plus size lines that are designed to flatter curvier figures. Some popular plus size stores include Torrid, Lane Bryant, and ASOS Curve.
Read Reviews
When shopping online, read customer reviews for insights on fit, quality, and comfort. Reviews from other plus size shoppers can provide valuable information on how true to size the items are and how they fit different body shapes.
Look for Sales and Discounts
Sign up for newsletters and follow your favorite brands on social media to stay informed about sales and discounts. Shopping during these times can save you money and allow you to buy more high-quality pieces.
Prioritize Comfort
While it’s important to find stylish clothing, comfort should also be a priority. Make sure the clothes you buy feel good to wear and don’t restrict your movement.
Shop with an Open Mind
Be open to trying new styles and stepping out of your comfort zone. Sometimes, you might be surprised by how much you like a new trend or style that you didn’t think would suit you.
Don’t Settle for Less
You deserve to feel fabulous in your clothes. Don’t settle for items that don’t fit well or make you feel uncomfortable. Keep searching until you find pieces that make you look and feel your best.
Consider the Return Policy
When shopping online, always check the return policy. Make sure you can return or exchange items that don’t fit or meet your expectations.
Build a Versatile Wardrobe
Invest in classic, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This will give you more options and ensure you always have something stylish to wear.
DIY Fashion Hacks
Get creative with your wardrobe by using some DIY hacks:
Simple Alterations
Hemming pants, adding darts, or changing buttons can make a big difference.
Customizations
Add patches, embroidery, or embellishments to personalize your outfits.
Maximizing Your Wardrobe
Mix and match items in unexpected ways to create new looks.
Celebrity Inspirations
Look to plus size celebrities for fashion inspiration:
Ashley Graham
Known for her bold and confident style.
Lizzo
Embraces vibrant colors and unique pieces.
Aidy Bryant
Balances quirky and chic perfectly.
These celebrities show that style has no size and inspire us to embrace our fashion choices boldly.
Body Positivity and Confidence
Fashion plays a crucial role in boosting self-confidence. When you dress well, you feel good. Embrace body positivity by wearing clothes that make you feel fabulous and expressing your personal style. Confidence is the best accessory you can wear.
Sustainable Plus Size Fashion
Sustainability is important in all aspects of life, including fashion. Look for brands that use eco-friendly materials and practices. Some sustainable plus size brands include Eileen Fisher and Girlfriend Collective. Shopping sustainably can also mean buying second-hand or investing in high-quality pieces that last longer.
Breaking the Myths
There are many myths surrounding plus size fashion:
Myth
Plus size women should only wear black.
Fact
Plus size women can wear any color they like.
Myth
Patterns are unflattering.
Fact
Patterns can be very flattering if chosen correctly.
Myth
Plus size fashion isn’t stylish.
Fact
Plus size fashion is incredibly stylish and varied.
Debunking these myths helps in breaking down barriers and celebrating fashion for all sizes.
Conclusion
Plus size fashion is about celebrating your body and expressing your unique style. With the right wardrobe essentials, fabrics, and accessories, you can create stunning looks for any occasion. Embrace trends that suit you, shop smartly, and don’t be afraid to get creative with DIY hacks. Remember, confidence and body positivity are key. Love your curves and let your fashion choices reflect your inner beauty.
FAQs
How can I find the right size for my body?
Understanding your measurements and using size guides provided by retailers can help you find the perfect fit.
What are the best brands for plus size fashion?
Some top brands include Torrid, Lane Bryant, ASOS Curve, and Eloquii.
How can I dress stylishly on a budget?
Look for sales, shop at thrift stores, and consider DIY customizations to make budget-friendly pieces unique.
Are there any plus size fashion influencers to follow?
Yes, some influencers include Gabi Gregg (@gabifresh), Nadia Aboulhosn (@nadiaaboulhosn), and Tess Holliday (@tessholliday).
How can I incorporate current trends into my plus size wardrobe?
Choose trends that you love and that flatter your body shape. Incorporate them with staple pieces you already own for a balanced look.
