The fashion world might be glorifying skinny models but most women are not so, yet can look attractive if dressed the right way. Celebrities like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Mindy Kaling and Vidya Balan to Sonakshi Sinha style their looks in a way that best enhances their figure and exude confidence.
One big fashion myth is that women who are not thin can’t wear trendy clothes. Of course, fashion myths don’t help anybody. Rather than fretting over the extra kilos, women should learn how to dress according to their body shape, size, skin tone and personality. It’s all about tactical dressing — how to wear a garment and going in for a fit that makes you look stylish.
The biggest mistake that women who are plump make is to wear bigger clothes to hide their imperfections. This actually makes them appear larger and heavier. Says stylist Anamika Chanda, “Wearing extremely tight or loose clothes, going in for loud prints and colours and blindly following trends are a clear ‘No’.”
Fashion blogger Anushka Hajela suggests experimenting with prints and colours. “Your weight should not stop you from being stylish. Women Try trousers in pop colours and with fun prints or go in for a bright top. If you unable to move away from your blacks, choose hues with gorgeous jewel tones like oxblood, emerald green and royal blue. Opt for relaxed fits which skim over your curves, so that nobody notices your unflattering figure.”
She adds that a well-fitted jacket creates a shape where there might not be one by nipping in the waist and slimming down the arms. It is a great investment. “If you love crop tops and have been desperate to get into one, wear it with a high-waist skirt or pants to look longer, leaner and to conceal most of the waistline. When curvier women opt for a bodycon dress, they should tactfully layer it with a waterfall jacket or structured blazer.
Sheath dress, a black jumpsuit, a wrap dress, a long chiffon shift dress, a corset, and a high-waist long straight skirt are some classic outfits to invest in to appear slim. Plump women can also try well-fitted flat-front trousers teamed with smart top and well-tailored coats/jackets. The clothes have to be sleek and simple, with no extra frills and ruffles that would add more volume to the body.
As for accessories, they should suit your personality and complements the outfits. “Accessories play a significant part in shifting the focus from the body to the total appeal. For example, if you have a great set of shoulders or collar bones, focus on them by wearing a well-designed necklace. Or wear belts high on the waist. Broad metal belts are a good option because they not only nip in your waist, but also cover unflattering tummy bulges, while looking trendy,” says Anushka.
“As for fabrics, chiffon, jersey and lace are perfect. The lighter the fabric the better the fall on the body and the better the look. The fabric should be closer to the body and not too tight. Sheath silhouettes, high waists and fit and flare are wonder walls for the curvy. Also keep the neck free — boat necks, one shoulder, cowl necks accentuate bone structure. Women must also know the art of colour blocking which can help minimise the flabbiness.”
Anushka also advises to seek inspiration from women from across the globe who flaunt their fat in style and are not afraid of being who they are. “Every woman must celebrate herself,” she emphasises.
