Articles - Snippits

Every year, you'll see magazines and websites talking about what's new this year. However, most of us don't revamp our wardrobes entirely every year, and most plus size women are used to hanging on to a flattering outfit if we find one. Since you only wear formal or special occasion dresses a few times a year, it's even more important to find styles that will last, and keep looking great. Here are a few tips to finding long lasting, flattering formal clothes.

It is vital that you are familiar with your body shape. You may be apple shaped, pear shaped, an hourglass or a rectangle. Where your weight is situated can determine how well a dress fits. An outfit that fits well can be more flattering than a trendy dress that doesn't suit you. If a garment has only a minor fitting flaw, consider alterations. Also, avoid trendy styles. While they may look stylish now, they will soon be dated, minimizing your wearing time. Choose conservative clothes that you can wear again and again.

Be comfortable. Foundation garments and high heels can make us look great. However, if they don't feel good while you're wearing them, you won't want to put them back on again. There's no point in owning an outfit that makes you miserable - your mood will show, and you won't be able to have a good time. Clean lines are classic. The details of clothing change frequently. You'll get more mileage out of a simply trimmed outfit than one with a lot of detailing. Consider basic empire cut, structured bodice, or A-line designs that complement your figure. Consider bold solid colors, but avoid loud prints. Solids give you a classy look that will stand the test of time and stay flattering. Make sure that you compare the color against your complexion, though. Some colors could make you look flushed, ill, or sallow.

Show-off your assets, and be careful to conceal those areas that you aren't happy with. For plus sized women, especially, tailoring your clothes to fit YOU is important. If the red dress looks good on a hanger, but plays up that abdomen that you don't like, you could end up looking like an apple. Being aware of how clothes look when you're actually wearing them could make the difference between just that perfect dress, and one that doesn't quite make the cut.

These are just a few tips to help you get a great, flattering style that you'll be able to wear for more than just a few months. There's a lot to choose from, and it's getting easier than ever to find great looking plus size clothes. Just pay attention to how a given dress fits you, and not the latest look.