Whether you’re looking to get your summer vacation wardrobe in order with curve-loving swimwear or you just need comfy closet staples like structured blazers and cozy cashmere loungewear, these plus size clothes will have you feeling stylish all year round.
Plus size fashion is typically sized at least 14 and above, depending on the country and retailer.
Rectangular
If you have a rectangular body shape, also known as a celery or banana figure, you are athletic and lean with minimal curves. You can wear most clothing styles, but you may need to add more feminine curves to your look through the fabrics and patterns you choose.
A heart-shaped neckline will visually lift your bust area and create a more contoured look. This style is flattering for a rectangle figure and looks especially good when paired with a floral pattern. Dresses that have a belted waistline will define your waistline and look great on you.
Puff sleeves and smocked waist dresses are both very good choices for your rectangle body shape because they create subtle volume on your shoulders and bust area. However, it is important that your puff sleeves not be too full because this can cause your shoulders to look wider than your hips.
Sleeveless floral tops and dresses are another option to add shape to your body. You can also try sleeveless maxi dresses with a plunging V-neck and cinched waist that will create a slimming column effect on your body.
For pants, you can choose high or mid-rise mom jeans to complement your figure and avoid a muffin top. You can also go for skinny jeans if you have a narrow hip width.
Pear
Pear-shaped Plus size women’s wear have narrow shoulders and full, curvy hips. The goal with this shape is to add volume in the upper body and de-emphasize the lower half, creating a balanced silhouette. This can be achieved by choosing clothing that hugs the hips but doesn’t hug the bottom, dresses that highlight the natural waist and embellishments or prints/colors on top that draw attention upward.
Sleeves are a great way to highlight the shoulders and add volume on this body type, such as ruffles, cap sleeves and puff sleeves. You also want to look for details on the top that accentuate your neckline and shoulder and avoid anything that will narrow your shoulders like wide straps, spaghetti straps or cascading sleeves.
When it comes to skirts, A-line styles are a pear-shaped woman’s best friend. These skirts help to define the waist and elongate the legs. A pear-shaped woman can also wear flared skirts if they are fitted on the hip and waist, as long as they are not too fitted in the lower leg.
When it comes to pants, you want to stick with tailored styles that have a flat front to minimize the hip and buttock area. You can also wear flared pants but they should be fitted at the hip and thigh and taper in towards the knee. You should also avoid pants that have pockets, pleating and detailing on the waistline and thighs as these will only add bulk to the hip and buttock areas.
Apple
The apple body shape works well with dresses that are not too tight and which define the waistline. Look for a-line, trapeze and shift styles that flatter the bust while skimming over the midsection in a long line. For added waist definition, choose a dress with a belt, ties or waistband. However, avoid separate belts which highlight the tummy area. Dresses that are already belted, especially those in the same color as the dress, work best to create a defined waistline.
When it comes to pants, opt for straight or flared styles that don’t cling to the tummy and thighs. Choosing patterned or colorful pants is also a great way to distract the eye from your tummy area.
As for shoes, a hat or beret can help to draw the focus upwards and away from your stomach. Alternatively, choosing heeled boots or pumps can lengthen your legs and make them appear slimmer.
Finally, the right jewelry can help to draw attention up to your decolletage or cleavage depending on what you prefer. And of course, the best finishing touches can be made with a beautiful bag and/or clutch.
Inverted Triangle
As the name suggests, women who have the inverted triangle body shape tend to have narrower hips and shoulders compared to their waist. A good way to balance this figure is by choosing dresses that cinch at the waist and flare out gently to accentuate curves. Wrap dresses, peplum styles and midi length gowns all work well for this body type. Likewise, maxi dresses create an elegant silhouette that can be worn in various settings.
Skirts are also a great option for this body shape because they add volume to the hip area and can draw the eye downward. Look for skirts with a tapering hemline, such as tulip and pleated styles, to draw attention to the hips. Wide-leg pants and palazzo are other options for this body type, as they help elongate the legs. Avoid skinny jeans because they can highlight an unbalanced appearance.
Tops for this body shape should nip in at the waist and play down broad shoulders. Choose fitted v-neck tops or blouses with details like waist ties, stripes and halter necks to flatter your body. You can also opt for tailored jackets with a waist tie or a wrap style. However, it is best to avoid anything with epaulettes and big collars as they will further emphasize your wider shoulders.
As a plus size inverted triangle, Renee Zellweger does a great job of balancing her frame with the right clothing. She wears a shift dress with a flared front that shows off her hips and waist to balance the width of her shoulders. She also chooses shoes with a block heel to elongate her legs.
