Plus Size Can Be Chic

It is so frustrating to look for clothes that fit my plus size body and come up with lovely styles that would look great on my grandmother! Plus size fashion is gradually changing, but initially it begins with frumpy prints and styles. It is possible to be plus sized and chic. We just have to work a little harder at it. Don't let me fool you, I am now 50 years old. That is not yet old...I can see it, just not quite there yet. However, I enjoy wearing modern, stylish fashions that are flattering to my age and body shape.

The first key is to find a style that flatters your body shape and your face. Plus sized ladies generally hate trying on clothes in the store. However, if you will visit a plus size store like Dress Barn, Lane Bryant, Fashion Bug or Cato, try on a lot of different styles, sizes and colors of clothes, then I guarantee you will be glad. I found that the halter necklines are my best, but I would have never ordered a halter from an online store. Now, I look for them! I also learned that my shape looks best with a long over lean look. Wearing a longer top like a tunic over a lean pant or capri, like leggings, gives me the most flattering outline. Your style might be the opposite a shorter, hip length top over a loose pant that gives you your most flattering look. How will you ever know? Each one of us is unique. Celebrate your unique shape by searching for your best and most beautiful look!

Plus size ladies learn to wear black to trim the pounds off our frame. Having a hard time getting away from that frame of mind? Well...flash some color! Don't be afraid to try a new color. Bright colors are great for darker skin tones and hair colors, while brighter pastels will make lighter skin tones and hair colors shine. Experiment with colors that you have admired. You may find that the reason you like them is that you look good in them! If all else fails, wear a black sheath dress with royal blue shoes, a royal blue purse and shiny silver jewelry blended with blue beads! Everyone will focus on the kicks of color and you will look stylish and up-to-date without feeling "out there" like you would in a royal blue dress. Accessories can be a girls best friend! Accessories can be jackets, hats, scarves, glasses, jewelry, belts, purses, even shoes! A kicking pair of shoes draws attention away from trouble areas and draws out great compliments that will make your day!

The main thing to remember when looking for stylish plus size fashion is to keep it simple sister. It doesn't take a sexy, bright print outfit, shiny, flashy jewelry AND bright attention-getting accessories. Wearing one print at a time, having one color kick, or using one attention-getting accessory at a time will give you an updated look without screaming "LOOK AT ME!!" There are several great websites that have some great fashions at a great budget price. Research which ones have the styles and colors that showcase your personality! Don't be afraid to let yourself shine because plus size can be chic. It is your look and changing one outfit at a time will make you enjoy your style. Don't be sucked into dressing old! One last accessory is a great smile and a beautiful attitude! Looking great disappears when you are frowning and catty! If you have a beautiful heart inside, then your outer beauty will glow. Go out there and shine!

Photo and Text Copyright 2011 Deborah M. Carey