The biggest challenge of being plus-size is understanding your body and accepting yourself for who you are.  One thing to remember is that everybody regardless of their size have a part of their body they are not so proud of.  Keeping this in mind would help you dress your body appropriately. The common mistake people make is buying clothes because it is available in their size without checking if it actually suits their body type.

Most women fall into the four main body types; Apple, Pear, Straight and Hour-glass. Apple-shaped women have broader shoulders and bust, and narrower hips. Empire line and longer length tops will flatter your figure. Go for ‘low-ish’ necklines to draw the eye upwards. Pear-shaped women’s hip measurements are greater than their bust measurements. Balance out your curvy bottom half with bold bright tops or tops with large collars, lapels or sleeves. Straight-shaped women’s waist measurement is less than 9 inches smaller than the hip or bust measurement.  A structured coat that cinches in with a belt will make you look more curvy. Hourglass -Shaped  woman’s hip and bust are almost of equal size, with a narrow waist. Wrap dresses, waist-cinching belts and flared or wide leg jeans will work wonders for you.

Having a knowledge of  different cuts and styles, helps one make better clothes choices. As a plus-size lady, I have worked really hard at identifying my style( not saying I don’t get it wrong sometimes). I find that different cuts and styles suit me better than others .

I often go for the empire cut dresses because they hide my tummy.  An empire waist falls far above the natural waistline. It is a cut that puts the waistline below the bust so the rest of the garment swiftly floats over the bottom half of the body. This is most flattering for most plus-size women.

 Another favourite of mine is the princess cut. Princess-cut dresses produce a slimming effect because the linear panels draw the eyes lengthwise down the seams of the dress. It is popular among pear and apple-shaped ladies.

Wraps are also really good. They are skirts and dresses that wrap around the body. They have a way of fitting in the right places and you control how tight or loose you want them.  There are many other cuts and styles. Researching into them could be beneficial.

Don’t wear over-sized clothes

Do wear big and bold accessories. Draws attention to your ‘assets’

Do wear waist-ed belts to create a silhouette

Do invest in good underwear. A good bra makes a whole lot of difference and a slimming panty can help reduce rolls and bulges and help your clothes fit better.

Do bold and big colour patterns. They hide a multitude of sins.

Don’t do stretchy items and elastic waists.  They are generally a bad idea for plus-sized figures. Tailored clothes suit better.

Do stock up on skinny jeans and leggings. Teamed with a loose shirt is always a winner.

Do choose tops that have pretty patterns or embellishments around the neckline to draw attention to your upper body

 Whatever style you go for, comfort is key.  Always wear a smile as  it is best accessory and will make you stand out in a crowd.

Duchess Nena Ubani

Follow me on twitter @nena_ubani

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