Loving one’s size is the first step to getting the right outfit
STYLE with Keturah Kamugasa
MANY plus-size women struggle to get clothes that not only fit, but are also flattering. In frustration, they resort to shapeless clothes just to cover their nakedness, thus enforcing the myth that only slim women can be elegant.
I believe that if a woman puts in the time and effort, she can create her own style and look good in whatever she wears. The trick is to find the right clothes. Here are some tips to help you become a stylishly elegant woman.
No shapeless clothes Do not wear shapeless or oversize clothes as they hide your shape, making you even more overweight. Rather, go for styles and cuts that flatter your best points while camouflaging the negative.
Choosing colour For the longest time, you have probably been advised to wear black as it has a slimming and versatile effect.
Whereas this is true, black does not flatter everyone.
What is important is not that you appear slimmer but rather proportionate. Tailoring, overall style and colour are equally important. Go for colours that flatter you and wear them around your face. Bright colours draw attention to the face, skin tone, face shape and eyes. Wearing black all the time can make you appear drab and old.
Shop around Ask friends to direct you to shops that stock clothes in size 14-24.
Ice cream cone shapes Also known as tapered trousers or skirts, they are not flattering at all, more so if you are pear shaped. They draw the eye to the widest part of the hips creating a disproportionate look.
Instead, opt for streamline shapes that are the same size from hip to ankles. If you have wider hips and a large behind, then flared trousers will work better for you. Team this style with pointed toe shoes to give your legs more length.
Avoid fabrics with huge patterns Whereas it is true that patterns and body size must be of the same proportion, wearing a huge pattern from neck to toe is not flattering at all.
Such patterns need to be broken up with a solid colour. Only tall plus-size women can get away with huge prints all over. If you love wearing bold patterns, wear them as a single item not a full outfit.
Get the right bra Have you seen women who appear to have four pairs of breasts? The reason is wearing the wrong size. Get a bra that covers the entire breast.
Underwired bras are great for giving heavy breasts a much needed lift, creating a flattering silhouette.
Love your size The reality is that if you are a size 18 and long to be a 14, you will not lose weight overnight. Accept your size and dress accordingly. Search for outfits that make you feel and look beautiful, feminine and elegant.
Clothes too tight? Some women buy the size on the tag rather than style. For some reason, few women are accepting their size, so they buy a smaller one. If you are a size 24, for instance, why buy a size 20 garment? It will be ill-fitting and magnifying of all love handles and other wobbly bits.
Accessories Bold accessories can be used to jazz up a simple outfit. However, choose your focus carefully.
Some women wear a bold necklace, bracelet and earrings and end up looking heavy laden, over accessorised and overwhelmed.
Simple outfits can be jazzed up with a bold womens’ accessory, but be careful about not overdoing it. There are beautiful accessories available now so you will be spoilt for choice. Pay attention to scarves, shoes, clutch bags and jewellery to add spice to your wardrobe.
