How to Create a Great Look for Plus-Size Women

Plus-size women should wear tops that hit their hip bone or waist.

Fashionable clothes and shoes are no longer restricted for the thin models who strut the runway. With stores such as Lane Bryant and Ashley Stewart, plus-size women can enjoy fashionable clothing that suits their body types. If you are a full-figured woman wanting to create a great look, look for clothes that fit and flatter you---no matter what their size. Although shopping for an outfit might seem daunting at first, keep trying on clothes until you find the perfect look for you.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Wear the right bra. A well-fitted bra is an absolute must for any woman's wardrobe. To find out your bra size, head to a department store or lingerie shop to get properly measured. Then, opt for a full-coverage bra that offers plenty of support. Visit a website such as HipsandCurves.com to view bras specifically geared for full-figured women.

2. Put on a V-neck top. Plus-size women look their best in V-neck shirts and sweaters due to the elongated neckline. For the spring and summer, choose a fitted V-neck shirt in a color that works with your skin tone. In the fall and wintertime, opt for a long-sleeve V-neck sweater.

3. Wear wide-leg trousers. A pair of wide-leg trousers are a must for a plus-size woman's wardrobe, says stylist Clinton Kelly. The trousers should fit snugly around the widest part of you and go straight down your leg. As for color, choose black or brown trousers for a dressy occasion and a lighter color such as khaki for casual use.

4. Pick out your shoes. For warm weather, opt for an espadrille since it has the right proportion for full-figured women. In the winter months, choose a pair of boots with a gently-pointed toe and at least a 1-inch heel. Boots with taller heels create a more slimming look.

5. Add a jacket or coat. If the weather is cool outside, slip on a well-fitted blazer or jacket that hits your waist. According to stylist Clinton Kelly, a structured jacket will create an attractive hourglass shape. For winter weather, choose a belted peacoat that hits your mid-thigh. Peacoats work well on nearly all body shapes and the belt will accentuate your waist.

6. Accessorize your outfit. To complete your look, jazz it up with a single bold accessory such as a cuff bracelet or a brightly colored scarf. However, don't overwhelm your look with too many frills. One vibrant accessory is more than enough.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a talented seamstress. Creating a great look depends heavily on how well the clothes fit your body. To turn your wardrobe from good to great, hire a seamstress to hem your pants and tailor your blouses and jackets.

References

• Beauty and Fashion Tips for Plus-Size Women
• Plus-Size Fashion Tips from Stylist Clinton Kelly
• 10 Basic Style Tips for Plus-Size Women