Plus size women fashion tips: What not to wear – Part 24
Color and fabric texture are two of the key issues when considering dressing according to your body’s size and shape. As a general rule, light and bright colors make one look larger, while dark ones diminish the appearance of size. At the same time, shiny fabrics such as satin also add the impression of extra weight, while fabrics with a dull finish such as crepe, do not. A heavier person would also do well to stay away from clingy fabrics, and those that are bulky.
Selecting clothing styles is also important. For the stouter figure, choose clothing with verticle lines such as dresses with center panels, or with a row of buttons down the front for example. Long, flowing lines such as princess style dresses are also good if they don’t fit too tightly. Stay away from two piece dresses, skirts with all-around pleats or gathers, wide gores, or peplums, and wide or contrasting belts. Avoid styles that cut you in half such as blouses that contrast with skirts or pants, and if you must wear them, wear a jacket that matches the lower part of your outfit to enhance the look of length from shoulder to hem. Also avoid puff sleeves, droopy sleeves, or ones that are tightly fitted. Choose V necklines and pointed collars while avoiding round ones.
As to fabric patterns and trims, larger people should avoid large prints and those with curved lines. Stripes are good, but be certain they run vertically. Diagonal stripes are alright if they are used sparingly perhaps for contrasting pockets for example.
One might consider wearing colorful jewelry, a scarf, or other accessory at or near the neckline to bring attention to the face. When choosing necklaces, chokers are a poor choice for the stout figure, as are round, button earrings. Just as with the clothing, the jewelry should enhance the idea of length, not breadth. The same applies for hairstyles and hats. They should add to one’s height, rather than diminish it, as should the choice in shoes. Select styles with heels for added height.
A well chosen wardrobe can boost a person’s appearance and self-esteem no matter whether they are thin or stout. It’s a matter of being in the know, and selecting the right colors, fabrics, and styles.
Plus size women fashion tips: Choosing a flattering clubbing outfit – Part 5
Stepping out onto the scene? Most nightclubs feature a dance floor.
If you’re aiming to dance (and you know you should!), you’ll want to wear something that relates to the body. In other words, wear something that flirts with your contour and accentuates movement…
The curvaceous gal has plenty of options. As the Italians say “Abundanza!” in appreciation for someone lush or abundant; an expression reserved for such beauties as Sophia Loren – not a bean pole.
Consider wearing something silky. Diagonal cuts work well. Soft gathers and tucks can compliment a full figure. Soft silk crepe, cut on the bias, is nice and drapey, yet has enough body not to emphasize every bulge. Avoid satin or keep it to accessories (such as purses or shoes), but away from hips and torso.
Resist the temptation to stuff yourself into a Lycra casing. Such stretchy numbers belong in the gym, not on the dance floor!
Chiffon can be fetching, matte jersey is also an option and you can do a lot with a deep shade of lace. A slinky velvet can be very flattering, but beware of brocade, even in a jacket – too overwhelming. Save that for the skinnies.
If you must wear leather, select soft chammy to hug your contours, or a buttery suede number – always matte, not shiny, and keep it to earth tones.
Sequined accessories are a “yes”; even a sequined bolero, but avoid broadly sequined bodices and skirts – way too much plating. If you want to go for glitter, beaded or semi-beaded textiles are much better. Dazzle, don’t blind!
Plus-sized women should avoid most metallics. While a metallic lipstick may be a nice touch for a night of downtown clubbing, beware even of metallic purses or clutches.
In cosmetics, think sparkle, not glitter; most of the time, matte is best, though you may go for a little glitz-glam on the eye makeup and lipstick.
When it comes to prints, keep to low contrast. Large prints are a no-no. Striped patterns almost never work – not even vertical ones! You simply don’t need them!
Feather trim does not work well on large girls – ever. It simply doesn’t work! Avoid frills and think sleek.
When selecting an evening jacket, avoid any boxy look. Beading is OK. Wool or silk crepe flows quite nicely in a semi-tailored, below-the-waist jacket. Keep it feminine. If the evening isn’t too chilly, a shawl works well instead, and can also be worked on the dance floor.
You can achieve a lot with the right shawl… always reach for the sensuous materials
