This is sort of true. Don’t wear big huge cabbage rose prints – you’ll
either look like drapes or a couch. A small, subtle print like polka dots or
tiny flowers can implant style and fun into your wardrobe. Prints, within
reason, is also a great way to convey confidence. You like how you look, you
like your body, so you're going to spend time dressing it up in colors and
patterns.
A word of warning, though. No ruffles! It doesn't matter what color or
pattern ruffles come in, they enlarge. That's why they were invented. Leave it
on your curtains, not on yourself.
Get to know your body
In order to figure out what to wear, you have to know your body and know it
well. Too often plus-size women run in a store, pick something, ANYTHING, try
it on quickly, and if it fits, good enough. Most of us never take long looks at
ourselves to see if the new garment is flattering. We’re just so happy it fits.
Make yourself stand in front of a full-length mirror in a bra and panties
(they can be in polka dots or tiny flowers). Now scrutinize yourself. Pick out
your favorite body parts. Your breasts might be your best asset or your long
legs.
Try on all your clothes and do an honest assessment: How do these jeans make
me look? How do I really feel in this suit? It is necessary and acceptable for
you to hate certain parts of your body and always want to cover them (arms,
calves, etc.). Think about items in your current wardrobe that already make you
feel good. Ask yourself, why is this skirt slimming? Why do I love these khaki
pants? Clothing should make you happy! Once you know your body and your taste,
you will instantly recognize what flatters you. I have arrived at the point
where I can (usually) know what will look good on me from a glance. So shopping
is fun and easy, be it on the Internet or at a store. Of course, there are
always heartbreaking realities. There’s this sweater I love on one of my
favorite websites but I know it will look horrible on me. The elastic waist
emphasizes the wrong area, the sleeves actually would squeeze my arms into two
sausages, the bold pink is tempting, but I'm not there yet. I still browse and
look at it every so often.
That's the whole point of knowing your body and your style. You will be able
to zero in on an established pattern of dressing. Then you will be brave enough
to forgo items that might please your heart but will not pass the test of your
eyes.
Where to shop
Quality and fit are the most important aspects when picking out clothes.
You’ve heard it a million times: better to have one good piece of clothing than
10 bad ones. The right fabric, cut and fit will enhance. This goes for shoes
and handbags too. Debate with yourself. Think before buying.
In the past, there wasn't that many shopping options for plus-size women.
But the Internet has changed all that. No more spending hours on the third
floor at your local Macy’s. Now you can buy high quality clothes online. My
favorite sites are Nordstrom.com and Saks.com. If you hit these sites during
sales you can get some amazing bargains. For everyday basics I’ll shop at
jjill, Land’s End and L.L. Bean. Many stores have
expanded sizing – Jcrew and Banana Republic now go up to size 16; the Gap goes
up to size 20.
Look carefully at each company’s sizing information and be honest with
yourself about your size. If you know you are a 22, don’t get a 20 because
you’re on a diet. Get the 22, you can always get clothing altered later if
necessary.