Size 16 plus women – Black is not slimming
For those of you carrying a bit too much weight please do not make the mistake of hiding yourself in black.
Black defines and outlines the shape of your body. So for example, great legs look fabulous in sheer black tights, however if the shape of your legs is not so great then a neutral natural color will be much more flattering. This rule works with the rest of your body too.
Dark colors draw attention to your curvy bits
Blocks of dark colors not only can look very drab but actually may be drawing attention to your, we will say, your more "curvy bits", instead of disguising them, if that's what you are trying to do. Instead, find a print that's not too small and twee. The print will break up the outline of your body. Look at colors that suit your face and help make you look and feel well. Be brave in beautiful color because you know if you are over weight you may as well look luscious and beautiful.
A black ensemble is not going to make a size 20 woman suddenly have Kate Moss proportions. A curvy, size 20, red haired woman could look stunning in a violet print dress.
Keep your fabrics mat particularly for the places on your body where you are full. Large bosoms in silk shirts – I would think not. Please stay away from shiny fabrics because the light bounces off it. Your worst bits will be hi-lighted. Imagine a shiny satin jacket and now think about the top of your arms. Without your arms are your slim bit, the shine will magnify them and you will not look great. A chubby thigh, in shiny satin jeans is not a great look either.
The myth about stripes
Another myth is stripes. Evenly spaced horizontal stripes on say actually top or sweater can actually be extremely flattering. The stripes literally stretch you out giving the optical illusion of making your torso look longer and therefore slimmer. Vertical stripes stretch you from side to side making you look wider. I know this is the opposite of what so many popular fashion magazines tell you. However, after dressing several thousand women, I know I am absolutely right on this point … so you will have to go our and try it.
A "no-no" for double breasted jackets
Large breasted women (and in fact really anyone carrying too much weight) should not wear double breasted jackets!