Helpful tips on finding clothes in plus sizes that fit without making you look fat, based on your weight, height and body proportion.
Let's face it: fashion designers do not have overweight women in mind when making clothes. Most styles aren't made to flatter women with a plus-size figure. Many overweight women have a hard time finding clothes that flatter their figure. Clothes that are too loose can make you look even bigger and clothes that are too tight can accentuate things like thick thighs, a larger bottom, and a bulging belly.
Finding the perfect fit depends on factors like your height, weight, bone size and how your weight is distributed over you body. Are you an apple or a pear shape? Knowing this may help you find clothes that fit better. If you're like many overweight women, you carry your extra weight around the middle (waist, abdomen and hips.) It is tricky to find clothes that flatter this type of figure.
Here are some tips on finding clothes that feel good, look nice and boost your self-confidence without accentuating your problem areas:
Try various brands and experiment with slightly different cuts to find which one works best for your body shape.
Don't worry about fitting into a special number. Even if you have always bought a size 18, it doesn't make sense to buy an 18 that is too tight. Buy the size that truly fits.
Buy 100% cotton clothes a size bigger than what you normally wear to allow for shrinkage.
Layered looks are usually a safe bet for hiding bulky areas.
Flat-front pants flatter a larger figure. Avoid pleats.
Shop for clothes that loosely hug your body.
Browse catalogues for plus-size fashions in extended sizes.
Try clothes that have some spandex in them so they are flexible without making you look boxy.
Choose undergarments carefully so they fit well and stay in place.
Make sure the length of your pants is right.
Choose shirts that go just over the hips and abdomen so that it covers your problem areas and detracts attention from them. Any shorter and you will expose your extra bulges. Any longer and you will accentuate the bulges.
With the right fit you'll be able to comfortably wear just about any style, regardless of your figure type.
The copyright of the article Perfect Fit for Plus Size in Weight Loss is owned by Tracy Rose. Permission to republish Perfect Fit for Plus Size must be granted by the author in writing.
Comments
Sep 17, 2006 2:46 PM
Christine Scivicque
:
I loved this article on finding the right fit. I've noticed in my life that it's very important to wear clothes that you feel confident and comfortable in. There's just no sense in trying to force something to work for you when it just doesn't. I only recently got rid of old jeans I had kept from years ago because I finally realized I would never be that tiny size again! I came to the conclusion that I was ok with that, bought new jeans that fit and look great, and I feel confident and sexy again. Thanks for reminding all of us that we should love our bodies and dress to emphasize the wonderful uniqueness of who we are.
Sep 18, 2006 4:45 AM
Tracy Rose
:
Christine, Thanks for the feedback! I think it is important that we look our best, no matter what our size. Plus size women can look amazing too and it can make you feel really good if yopu feel confident in the clothes your in. In is a little trickier for us to find the perfect fit, but if you look for styles that flatter you body shape and aren't too baggy or too tight it can a big difference.
Oct 2, 2006 2:00 PM
Tracy Rose
:
Where do you like to shop for clothes? Do you shop catalogue, specialty retail stores or go to the women's department in stores like J.C. Penny's, Sears and Kohl's?
Oct 16, 2006 12:47 PM
Teresa Simpson
:
Thanks for the great tips on buying plus-size clothes that fit well and accentuate the positive!
Oct 16, 2006 3:03 PM
Tracy Rose
:
Thanks for your post Theresa. Is there a store you prefer to shop for plus-size clothes?
Dec 16, 2006 12:40 PM
Dorez
:
I can relate to what you're saying about getting rid of clothing that doesn't fit; and about how important it is to make sure your clothing fits properly. I had an old pair of jeans and I finally got rid of them. Also, I've decided to only buy clothing that makes me look and feel confident. That's why I'm glad to have found a new e-store called Jahqoi. They have cute stuff and the fit is incredible. - Yvonne
Dec 17, 2006 2:56 PM
Tracy Rose
:
Yvonne, thanks for your post. It feels great to get new clothes, but finding clothes that fit perfectly and flatter your shape is even better. Glad you found a store you like:)
