Plus Size Fashion Tips for Your Body Shape

Finding your style and what clothes work well with your body type is a challenge, especially if you are plus-sized and have a little more to love. It takes a lot of trial and error when it comes to figuring out what parts of your body work well with different styles and cuts of clothing. Knowing your body type or shape can be a guideline for you when shopping for the newest trends and looks for the season.

The Most Common Body Shapes:

• Apple
• Pear
• Hourglass
• Rectangle

Apple Body Type

If you carry most of your weight in your stomach area, with slim legs and a large bust, you are most likely an apple body type. Fashions that show off those shapely legs and minimize your midsection are your best bet.

Typically, separates do not work well for your shape. Shorts and skirts should pair well with a long tunic or closed jacket. You don’t want to break up the pattern or print around your midsection. Solid or printed plus size cocktail dresses will work for you. Choose tops with V-necks to show off your face and bring the attention upward.

The section just under your chest is your smallest – so show that off with an empire waist dress of tops with knots or bows in that area. Embellished or bell-shaped sleeves also draw the eye away from your midsection. Avoid large tops that are baggy. This will add unnecessary fullness to your shape.

Pear Body Type

Narrow shoulders, smaller chest, wide hips and a large behind are all typical elements of the pear body shape. This shape makes a challenge out of finding clothes that flow well between the upper and lower body.

The best tops will bring attention away from the hips toward the face and shoulders. Tops that do this are halter tops, V-neck tops, cowl necks, and off-the-shoulder looks. A top that is flowy around the bust will help to balance the smaller top to the larger bottom. Experiment with ruffles or puffy sleeves to emphasize your shoulders. Stripes on your top half could also make your body shape appear more balanced.

Any decorative details near the hip-line will draw the eyes there, so be sure to avoid tops like this. As for pants and skirts, keep it simple to minimize your behind and hips.

Hourglass Body Shape

Many women envy an hourglass shape because it is proportioned with a larger bust, small waist, and full hips and behind. The most important tip with dressing an hourglass tip is to accentuate the waist. Wide belts, bows, and accents at the waist show off the smallest section of your body. Try short, structured jackets, solid colors, and low necklines on your top.

Details that enhance volume, like ruffles will make you appear larger, so try to avoid those when choosing pieces for your wardrobe. To balance out the lower half with your top, experiment with pants with a wide waistband. If you are wearing a more form-fitted top, try straight-leg pants in a capri length to balance your figure. Wear cargo pants with a fuller top.

Full skirts paired with a full top and cinched waist accent your best feature – your waist! Do not add weight to your style by wearing baggy clothing and walk with confidence to fully support your beautiful figure.

Rectangle Body Shape

If you find that you have an undefined waist, and the same sized chest and hips, then you have a rectangle body shape. Your tips for successful styles are ones that give your body more shape and the illusion of curves. Don’t be afraid of bold prints and loud patterns. Accessories are helpful to bring attention elsewhere from your body shape.

A bold statement necklace or a long, thin necklace will add some glitter for the eye to catch. Tops that work for the rectangle shape are short-sleeved or sleeveless, with higher necklines, scoop necks, or are made with the symmetry of an A-line silhouette.

Try flat-front pants with a loud print to add depth to your shape. Long jackets create a clean look and unify your look. Add layers to add dimension and more color to the look. Fitted clothing, low necklines, and slim skirts should be avoided.