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Curve Appeal – Tips for a Sensational Look at Any Size

A size-18 personal styling client of ours recently asked, “Why does fashion take a holiday when it comes to my size?” She’s not alone. If you wear a size 16 or larger, you probably share this frustration. And the fashion industry isn’t doing you any favors.

The search to find a fabulous outfit in a larger size is like a treasure hunt. Having dressed hundreds of women from all over the U.S., the stylists at Corset Personal Styling specialize in helping larger women find fun and professional looks that play up their assets.

Even though 70% of American women are size 12 and up, major fashion retailers aren’t catering to them. And, when they do whip out larger fashions, they’re usually cut as tents or feature wild prints they think the “big girls” want to wear. Many major department stores have lost sight of size 18 altogether and jump from a misses XL to a 1X plus size.

Luckily, dressing your curves doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, we think there are many advantages to being more bodacious. Following are some tricks Corset stylists use to help curvy women work their wardrobe:
• Flattering Fit – avoid wearing clothing that is too big for you when trying to hide problem areas. Ample clothing adds bulk and makes us look bigger. Find more structured and less boxy cuts (even if you have to take the extra step to have items tailored). With jackets and blouses, be sure the shoulder seam aligns with the top of your shoulder. If you’re busty, opt for blouses with texture and stretch so that you can still get a slimming effect at the waist and avoid pulling at the chest.
• Heads Up – one advantage that larger gals have over their petite counterparts is that they can rock statement accessories – necklaces, earrings and scarves. Bold accessories add personality and polish to any outfit, and they keep the emphasis and attention near the face (where we all want it).
• Creatively Camouflage – a blouse cinched with a wide belt underneath a cardigan, or a jacket that cuts in at the waist (in lieu of a boxed cut) helps create a waist for women with a thicker middle. Pair with an a-line skirt or wide-leg trouser that flares at the bottom and you’ve created a balanced, hourglass shape.
• Embrace Texture – one standout strategy Corset stylists love is the mixture of textures to keep the eye moving and the outfit interesting. Pair a crisp corporate blouse with a fuzzy sweater or a faux fur cardigan. Layer a ruffled blouse under a tailored, fitted vest - a great way for larger women to wear ruffles while still getting needed structure.
• Pop It – the "all black is slimming" myth has been debunked. Learn to use “pop” colors. A lemony bright yellow tee makes a terrific pop color under a black jacket. The small blast of yellow underneath the jacket has a slimming effect as the eye automatically is drawn up and in.
• Tone on Tone – While Corset stylists are fans of pop colors, they also suggest tone-on-tone dressing for curvy women. Pairing a rich camel top and jacket over a pair of black pants, or a vibrant red blouse and sweater wrap over a grey tweed skirt provides a rich, slimmer foundation and you can use accessories to amplify your outfit. A colorful scarf, interesting tights, or a fun belt easily completes the look.

For more information on how Corset Personal Styling can help you take your look to the next level, call 952-224-2495 (toll-free 800-580-0359) or email .