Shopping For Plus Size Women's Clothing

The majority of women in the United States are considered plus size

, meaning size 12 or larger. Why, then, do the majority of stores and magazines cater to the smaller sized minority? It's easy for a slender woman to find cuts and styles that compliment her. Everywhere she looks she can find examples of what women's clothing to wear and how to wear it.

Women wearing plus size women's clothing don't have as many examples. However, there are basic guidelines to follow that will help you look your best, regardless of what the size label says.

The most important rule when shopping for plus size women's clothing is this: Buy the size you actually are, not the size you wish you were. Few things make a plus size woman look worse than wearing clothing that fits like sausage casing.

Consider shopping at a store that specializes in plus size women's clothing. Many retailers carry the same clothes for smaller sizes as they do for women's sizes. They use the same proportions, same cuts, just made bigger. A retailer that specializes in plus size women's clothing will carry designs that are proportioned for a woman's body. The upper arm area of the sleeves will be proportioned a bit larger, the bust area will be enhanced, and there will be a subtle flair for hip and bottom room. The basic style and pattern will still look like its smaller counterpart, but will actually fit properly.

Another guideline to follow concerns the type of fabric used in clothing.

Fitted clothing that has no give will show every lump, love handle and imperfection your body has. Many retailers are buying clothing with a small amount of spandex in the larger sizes, so that the fabric will move as you do and will not gut caught or bunched up when you stretch or bend.

Yet another factor to consider when shopping for women's clothing is pattern.

For some reason many retailers assume that large women love large patterns.

Some pattern is ok, even good. For example, if you like floral patterns, consider the blouse with small, close floral offerings over the blouse with huge roses all over it. Big flowers make a shirt look big. Another thing to look for is a style that has a tight pattern but not everywhere. Too much pattern, regardless of the size, can be unflattering. Look for a pattern you like that has an inset solid panel in the front, either as a faux dickey effect or a layered look. The panel of solid in the front will draw the eye and give the illusion of a more slender form.

Finally, when choosing pants, it is extremely important to go for what looks good on you, NOT on the size zero actress on the cover of your favorite magazine. Large, pear-shaped women simply do not look good in skinny, peg-legged jeans. Apple-shaped women do not look good in low-riding flair-bottomed jeans. If your jeans or slacks are the right type for your body, it won't matter what style they are. The only thing that will be noticed is how great you look.

Shopping for plus sized women's clothing can be challenging. Know which retailer in your area carries brands designed specifically for your shape, and start there.

by: Jacque Crook

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