1. Myth: Getting dressed up is no fun when you're overweight.
Reality: "Plus-size women want what every woman wants -- to look and feel good in her clothes. The size 18 wants to wear the same trends that the size 8 does, and why not?
Every woman needs a killer cocktail dress, no matter her size or shape.
Tip: For dressy styles that flatter the figure, look for empire waistlines, wrap styles and a-line shapes with eye-catching details like sweetheart or scalloped necklines, ruching or asymmetrical hemlines.
2. Myth: The more covered up, the better.
Reality: Curvy girls can absolutely wear tanks and tubes that show off their arms, if you feel self-conscious, she says, top off tanks with a cute cropped jacket or cardigan.
Tip: Layering is a trend right now, so take advantage of it.
3. Myth: Anything that clings is evil.
Reality: "Jersey Knit is wonderful on plus-size women for the same reason some women shy away from it -- it follows your curves,” That’s because, jersey is sexy and fluid, and has enough stretch to hold its shape.
Tip: Try wearing a shape wear tank underneath for flawless, smooth lines.
4. Myth: Plus-sized girls should avoid fitted jackets.
Reality: "Curves crave apparel with shape to it," Look for fitted jackets in fabrics that stretch and move with you. You don’t want to look stiff.
Tip: Pair a fitted jacket with trousers and long necklaces for a polished and trendy look.
5. Myth: Wearing gathers will gather you a whole lot of negative attention.
Reality: "Big girls can wear gathers, if they are in the right places," One caveat: "The gathers should never stop under the belly, or it will make that plus-sized girl look like she has a baby bump. This is crucial especially in long dresses."
Tip: Gathers in the bust area are flattering, as they draw the eyes upward.
6. Myth: Prints and patterns will make you look heavier.
Reality: Say no to plain colored ensembles, "I think with the right pattern, a plus-sized woman can bring a little fun back into her wardrobe." You just have to pick the right size and color combinations. My rule of thumb: Try small or medium patterns (like tiny polka dots), and stick to three colors or less.
Tip: Do avoid large floral or blotted patterns, as they aren't flattering to full figures.
7. Myth: Larger girls should not draw attention to their middles.
Reality: On the contrary, wide belts can do wonders for creating a waistline. "Many women shy away from belts, but they can be the secret to looking your best," Belts create an instant waistline, especially an elastic one with an adjustable buckle.
Tip: Belts look great on wrap dresses and longer tunics that might be too baggy without one.
8. Myth: Baggy clothes can hide your flaws.
Reality: "Wearing baggy and loose clothing actually makes you look bigger when you have a curvy body," Show off your assets -- your natural curves are beautiful, so accentuate them. For example, a trapeze top that is fitted on the top, and cuts away from the body under your bust, highlights your upper body and hides a thicker middle.
Tip: Experiment with different combinations of flowy and fitted to see what works.
9. Myth: Pencil skirts only work on slim ladies.
I think women with curves really look great in a pencil skirt and I get my curvy client's to purchase one and then they see how wonderful they look in a perfect pencil skirt for their particular body-type. Ladies celebrate your curves!!
Reality: "Every girl should try a slim pencil skirt," The narrow silhouette can make you look sleek and shapely. Try on different lengths to find the right hemline for you; either slightly above or below the knees is usually most flattering.
Tip: When wearing a pencil skirt, make sure its not too tight and that you can sit down comfortably. If you're very hippy don't go with a very tight fitted skirt because you will throw off your proportions.
LaPaz Image/Event Consultants
Where everything is Fabulous!