Monday, April 11, 2011

Plus-size fashion

By Hannah Peterson


Trying to wear the same clothes as a skinny catwalk model is not an option for the majority of women in this country. But a staggering quarter of us are in denial about how big we really are, and with 32% of women in the UK classed as obese, it's time to get real. However, being overweight shouldn't mean that you're destined to wear unfashionable clothes for the rest of your life. It's just a matter of understanding your body shape and choosing clothes that will complement it.

Overweight women tend to fall into two very broad categories. There are the pear shapes with a slim waist and heavy hips and legs, and then there are the apples with a heavier stomach and upper body, but with slender legs. The important thing to remember is that whatever shape you are you need not compromise on clothes. Fashionable clothes are not solely for the skinny women out there.

Your underwear is the key to your overall look. Badly fitting bras and pants can mean bumps, bulges and lumps in the most unusual of places! High-waisted, low-legged pants should be purchased. Even the slimmer people among us use these to squeeze into tight-fitting clothes. Making sure your bra fits correctly is also vital. No-one wants to see a pair of unsupported breasts and a bulging back.

Pear shapes should avoid trousers and opt for skirts of the A-line and calf-length variety. Long skirts will make you appear much larger and shorter skirts should not be touched! Jeans and trousers should be the staple for an apple shape but pencil skirts can also be included in your wardrobe. Concentrating on your top half, pears should not purchase crop tops or short blouses that will reveal your bra if you move your arms an inch. Make sure they cover your hips and you will feel much more comfortable. Flowing tops like smocks and tunics can be worn if you're an apple. This will ensure your spare tyres are well hidden.

Don't forget to accessorise. The bigger the better! Overweight people can carry off bulkier jewellery better than the average slim Jim. Footwear should also be an important purchase. A good pair of boots will do the trick for a pear-shape, while apples can get away with wedges or stilettos. Steer clear of horizontal stripes and opt for monochrome outfits which elongate the body. Fundamentally, when you are shopping, don't get hung up on your size. Everyone has body hang-ups, even the slimmest among us!




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