For curvy women, strong looks which can accentuate your natural structure are also available when it comes to dressing up and feeling confident. Choosing clothes that fit you well, and that you carry yourself in and out of will be key. To get styling those curves with confidence, I’ve rounded up some practical styling tips below!
1. Fit Is Everything
There’s a right fit that can make a big difference. Don’t wear clothes that is too loose or too tight. Choose clothes that follow your natural lines and aren’t overly restrictive. Well fitting clothes will flatter your figure while keeping you comfortable.
Example: My attempt at a fitted dress that cinches at the waist. Allows your curves to be seen without looking 'pot bellied' and looking good.
2. Show Off Your Waist
I think the best way to flatter a curvy body is to use your waist as the highlight. If possible, look for outfits that flatter your natural shape, like with a belt on a dress, or high waisted pants. Defined waist will balance and smooth your look.
Example: A tucked in top with a high waist skirt or pants can give you a good hourglass shape.
3. Go Bold with Colors
Don’t be afraid to be bold and use colors – or patterns! Add some bright colored prints or brighten your wardrobe with fun prints and you’ll stand out where you want! But if you feel it’s too busy, then just balance them with neutral tones.
Example: Solid coloured pants and a patterned blouse are a classy contrast.
4. V-Necklines are Your Friend
Long v neck tops and dresses can help elongate your neck and make you appear slimmer. Simply change this and you will have a sophisticated fresh touch in your look and flattering your body area.
Example: A V neck dress with a slightly flared skirt is a nice way to show off your curves without looking trashy.
5. Opt for Structured Fabrics
Clothing with structure, like cotton, denim, or structured wool can draw in shape. They keep your clothes from falling off and make you look clean and polished. Steer clear of fussy fabrics that will stick to your body and look unflattering.
Example: Your curves will be highlighted while keeping a sharp overall outfit, and a well-tailored blazer can give structure to your look.
6. Try Monochrome Looks
Wearing one color from top to bottom can give your body a streamlined look, and make you appear taller, and more balanced. One could play with different textures and accessories to great use of monochrome outfits in order to maintain the cohesion of the look.
Example: Add some pop of colour with shoes or handbag in a black top with a pop of colour in the bottom half.
7. Embrace Bodycon Styles
If you have curves, bodycon dresses or skirt can be slimming and beautiful way to show it off. If bodycon dress or skirt is made with a stretchy fabric, even better! These pieces help you wear them comfortably without being too tight for you.
Example: A bodycon dress with a little stretch makes your curves look great without being too tight.
You need good undergarments. A good supportive bra and well fitting shapewear can also smooth out your figure and make your clothes fit better. The right undergarments make all the difference — you just need foundation.
Example: Lift and support are provided by a push up or balconette bra and your clothes will look and fit better.
9. Play with Proportions
Another way e.g. mixing different proportions creates yet an interesting and balanced look. Pair printed looser tops to fitted pants or a fitted jacket to wide leg trousers. With proportions, you can play with it and see what is your natural shape and we’re giving that element a refresh of a fresh new look.
Example: A stylish way of even out you proportions, a long oversized cardigan with skinny jeans.
10. Don’t Forget the Accessories
But what makes the total picture is bold accessories. Statement necklace, big bold handbag or chunky shoes will make your outfit stand out, draw attention to your best features.
Example: Wearing a wide belt around your waist can appear to offset a dress and even top shape to make you look more flattering.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing better than experimenting with styles until you discover what’s best for your body. So, with fit, proportioned, and bold colors and patterns curvy women ensure they can dress confidently and flatter their body type as well as feels amazing.
Remember: The thing you should be wearing is what makes you feel good. Confidence is key!
For curvy women, strong looks which can accentuate your natural structure are also available when it comes to dressing up and feeling confident. Choosing clothes that fit you well, and that you carry yourself in and out of will be key. To get styling those curves with confidence, I’ve rounded up some practical styling tips below!
1. Fit Is Everything
There’s a right fit that can make a big difference. Don’t wear clothes that is too loose or too tight. Choose clothes that follow your natural lines and aren’t overly restrictive. Well fitting clothes will flatter your figure while keeping you comfortable.
Example: My attempt at a fitted dress that cinches at the waist. Allows your curves to be seen without looking 'pot bellied' and looking good.
2. Show Off Your Waist
I think the best way to flatter a curvy body is to use your waist as the highlight. If possible, look for outfits that flatter your natural shape, like with a belt on a dress, or high waisted pants. Defined waist will balance and smooth your look.
Example: A tucked in top with a high waist skirt or pants can give you a good hourglass shape.
3. Go Bold with Colors
Don’t be afraid to be bold and use colors – or patterns! Add some bright colored prints or brighten your wardrobe with fun prints and you’ll stand out where you want! But if you feel it’s too busy, then just balance them with neutral tones.
Example: Solid coloured pants and a patterned blouse are a classy contrast.
4. V-Necklines are Your Friend
Long v neck tops and dresses can help elongate your neck and make you appear slimmer. Simply change this and you will have a sophisticated fresh touch in your look and flattering your body area.
Example: A V neck dress with a slightly flared skirt is a nice way to show off your curves without looking trashy.
5. Opt for Structured Fabrics
Clothing with structure, like cotton, denim, or structured wool can draw in shape. They keep your clothes from falling off and make you look clean and polished. Steer clear of fussy fabrics that will stick to your body and look unflattering.
Example: Your curves will be highlighted while keeping a sharp overall outfit, and a well-tailored blazer can give structure to your look.
6. Try Monochrome Looks
Wearing one color from top to bottom can give your body a streamlined look, and make you appear taller, and more balanced. One could play with different textures and accessories to great use of monochrome outfits in order to maintain the cohesion of the look.
Example: Add some pop of colour with shoes or handbag in a black top with a pop of colour in the bottom half.
7. Embrace Bodycon Styles
If you have curves, bodycon dresses or skirt can be slimming and beautiful way to show it off. If bodycon dress or skirt is made with a stretchy fabric, even better! These pieces help you wear them comfortably without being too tight for you.
Example: A bodycon dress with a little stretch makes your curves look great without being too tight.
Related: What are some tips for styling a bodycon dress for different occasions?
8. Choose the Right Undergarments
You need good undergarments. A good supportive bra and well fitting shapewear can also smooth out your figure and make your clothes fit better. The right undergarments make all the difference — you just need foundation.
Example: Lift and support are provided by a push up or balconette bra and your clothes will look and fit better.
9. Play with Proportions
Another way e.g. mixing different proportions creates yet an interesting and balanced look. Pair printed looser tops to fitted pants or a fitted jacket to wide leg trousers. With proportions, you can play with it and see what is your natural shape and we’re giving that element a refresh of a fresh new look.
Example: A stylish way of even out you proportions, a long oversized cardigan with skinny jeans.
10. Don’t Forget the Accessories
But what makes the total picture is bold accessories. Statement necklace, big bold handbag or chunky shoes will make your outfit stand out, draw attention to your best features.
Example: Wearing a wide belt around your waist can appear to offset a dress and even top shape to make you look more flattering.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing better than experimenting with styles until you discover what’s best for your body. So, with fit, proportioned, and bold colors and patterns curvy women ensure they can dress confidently and flatter their body type as well as feels amazing.
Remember: The thing you should be wearing is what makes you feel good. Confidence is key!