Fashion has no limits is a statement used by a lot of people around the world; and I agree with this 100%. However, there are principles that need to be followed to create an individual’s style. Being confident in your skin affects how an outfit looks on your figure. The perception that people have of their physical self, their thoughts and feelings, go a long way to influence how an outfit turns out on them. A healthy dose of confidence coupled with the sound application of the principles of fashion (taking body type into consideration) will most certainly have a positive influence on the outlook of an outfit; hence creating a masterpiece – your masterpiece! A number of curvy girls however, make the mistake of either wearing their clothes too tight which could be because they don’t want to accept wearing bigger dress sizes (example, L, XL, XXL), or too loose. Either way, the choice aims at creating an illusion of a slimmer figure or hiding the curves.  Both choices are tragic because this makes the figure appear bigger than it actually is which is worse. Adopting the latest fashion trends is great, yet it is important to understand that certain trendy styles may not suit your figure type. However modifying - whether adding to or subtracting from the trends, is the first step to achieving a tailor-made trend to suit your figure. Image source: Fashion to Figure GENERAL FASHION KEY NOTES The important thing about dressing is Underwear! The type of underwear worn can improve the figure or make it worse – which is not quite a pretty sight! The first step would be to get a good fitting brassiere. Once you find the right style and size of bra for your figure, it can knock some inches off your waist. Who wouldn’t want that? I know I would! Body shapers also do the trick.
  • Selecting fabrics
For curvy body types, it is advisable to avoid heavily textured and shiny fabrics as they make the figure appear larger than it actually is.
  • Appropriate shades and colours
It is best to opt for darker tones and shades of colours but whatever you do, DO NOT GO ALL BLACK! You may accessorize with brightly coloured jewellery to add appeal and excitement to the outfit. Statement earrings, necklaces and rings can also do the trick but figures with broad shoulders may avoid statement necklaces. Note: Where you place your accessories usually catches the attention of the eye.
  • Patterns
Truth is, any pattern can be worn provided you style it in a way that enhances your figure.
  • Accessories(shoes and bags)
It is always advisable to complement your plus size wardrobe with an oversized bag as small sized bags often appear lost. With shoes, selecting ones that complement your weight is always the best choice; it literally saves lives. Kitten heels, pumps, boots (high and ankle) and chunky heels are your best bets. The style and length mostly affect the comfortability of the shoe worn.
  • Get the right fit
It’s important to avoid wearing too tight or too loose clothes, this distorts the frame of the body. Knowing your measurements will help you choose the right size for your figure when shopping for clothes.
  • Body proportions
Understanding the proportions of your figure will help you identify the parts that need to be highlighted and the parts that need toning down with the help of colours, fabric patterns and textures.   STYLE TIPS FOR GIRLS WITH ‘CURVITUDE’ - CURVES WITH ATTITUDE Curvy figures are often categorised into four basic body shapes:
  1. ENCHANTING HOUR GLASS
Features: Figure has full hips and bust with a slimmer waist. Asset: Slim/Slender waist Style Goal: Highlight your curves by emphasizing the slender waist.  
  1. PEAR SHAPED
Features: Pronounced features are the hips and butt Asset: Hips and Backside (Butt) Style Goal: Elongate and balance your figure by accentuating the upper body. Image of complete outfit and best swim wear best suiting the figure  
  1. APPLE OF THE EYE (APPLE SHAPED)
Features:  Hips, legs and shoulder are slimmer in proportion with most of the weight at the mid-section. Assets: Slender legs Goal: Your goal is to minimize your mid-section by highlighting your legs and shoulders.  
  1. INVERTED TRIANGLE
Features: Broad shoulders with narrow hips/legs Asset: Beautiful, shapely legs Styling Goal: Giving the lower body more volume   BY: NAICY BRUCE  @naicybruce