by: Jiar Hwei of Trendy Confessions
Growing up with a plus-size figure, I personally found it difficult at times to find clothing that suited my age and was flattering at the same time. It is much easier nowadays with the influx of fashion brands easily found at malls; my personal favourites would have to be Dorothy Perkins and Marks & Spencer.
When I was younger, my first pick would always be a baggy t-shirt paired with equally baggy pants – preferably in all black. Since those days, I would have to admit that I am guilty of numerous fashion mistakes (and I expect, more to come in the future). I have learned some lessons from those cringe-worthy moments and thought I’d share them with you here.
Inject Some Colour
Very often I hear people say that black is the best (especially for plus-sizers) because it looks slimming. That may be true, but wearing all black gets very old.
As I like to say – “I’m already big. What’s really the point in trying to ‘look’ slim?” Take a chance and have fun with colours. Fashion isn’t about being safe, it’s about being fun and it’s a way of self-expression. But do take the time to consider what colour best suits your skin tone.
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Choose The Right Fabrics
It is key to find fabrics that flatter your body most. Personally, I tend to avoid satin and Lycra; anything that reflects light and clings onto my body. I find that materials that are medium-heavy and slightly hard falls best on a full-figure. Alternatively, you can also play around with mixing various fabric types (structured, loose-fitting) for different looks.
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Go Skinny (jeans)!
Search and you will find that many stylists will recommend that the boot cut is the way to go for a full-figured body. Personally, I find skinny jeans works best and looks amazing when paired with heels. Legs look elongated and it shows off my curves too!
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Who Needs Sleeves Anyway?
This might not be a Muslimah-friendly lesson, but bear with me. Some customers I have spoken to are self-conscious of baring their arms, so they would avoid sleeveless items like the plague. But with the hot weather we often experience in Malaysia, sleeveless items are a way to beat the heat wave.
The key to pull off the sleeveless look is to watch the neckline. I find a lower neckline works best as it shows more skin, giving more length to your neck and bodice.
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Embrace the Chunkiness
I envy girls with curves in all the right places whereas I have a small bust but wide waist and hips. To help balance out, I will normally wear a detailed neckline or wear a chunky necklace.
Every body is unique, hence you could apply this to any particular part of your body which you think you could balance out with the right choices/accessories.
Last but not least, it’s how you feel in what you wear. Some people find it intimidating to wear certain items, for example maxi dresses. But my motto is “If you feel great in it, you will look great in it!” Confidence sells an outfit more than any brand or accessory can, so put a smile on your face and radiate it!
Jiar Hwei is one-half of the sister duo behind Trendy Confessions, an online store catering to sizes UK 12 to UK 24.
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