Full-Figured Vs. Curvy Body Type

The debate of what constitutes a full-figured versus curvy woman is a never-ending battle of opinions, fashion trends and what's new in Hollywood. With what's in and out constantly changing, the difference between a full-figured woman and one who is curvy is less about measurements and more about how healthy you look and feel. With just a few tips, you can understand which body type you are and learn how to dress it fabulously.

The definition of what constitutes a full-figured woman varies, depending on who you speak to. In the fashion world, a full-figured woman is one that wears a size 12 or above. Her exact figure is usually voluptuous with an overall rounded frame. She has thick hips, a rounded backside, large breasts and a non-narrow waistline. Full-figured does not automatically constitute overweight, a common misconception -- as many full-figured women are healthy, robust, active and conscious of balanced eating.

Full-figured women can wear just about anything, but some specific choices are recommended to create the perfect look for the shape. One recommended choice is jersey fabric. Jersey fabric is a soft, stretchy material that highlights the body parts best flaunted on full-figured women and hides others. Jersey can be wrapped, twisted and gathered to create a variety of looks for day or night. Other recommended looks are those structured and close to the body, like tailored pieces, fitted tops and wrap dresses. These looks will skim the body, define the waist and avoid adding bulk.

Like the definition of a full-figured women, the definition of a curvy one varies as well. Most often, a curvy woman is said to have an hourglass figure. An hourglass figure is commonly defined as a woman with wider hips, thighs and bust compared to her narrow waist. Like full-figured women, women who are curvy are often healthy, robust, active and their physique is often desired to attain.

Like full-figured women, curvy women can wear just about anything. However, "Harper's Bazaar" magazine suggests some specific dressing tips to maximize curves and minimize bulk. For curvy women, it's all about emphasizing the waist to enhance the overall hourglass figure. In addition, form-fitting dresses and skirts that cut diagonally or on the bias are also a good choice. This is because diagonally cut or on the bias hug the waist and hips. Curvy women typically want to downplay their lower half. To accomplish this, it is recommended to wear clothing loose over thighs and calves.