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