Clothing for people whose proportions are bigger than the average person are called plus size clothing, but this term varies from country to country. The term itself is falling out of favor with manufacturers preferring to call the size Generous, Curvy, Misses or even Womens’. The size itself has varied over the years.
The fashion industry deems a plus size as one that is over 8. But in the real world, a woman who is a size 8 cannot be called a plus size in any sense of the word, especially since the average American woman is between size 14-16. Anything above this can be called plus size. Super sizes and extended sizes are those items of clothing where the size is 26W and above. On occasion by some manufacturers, size 26W is included in plus size.
In the UK, such clothing used to be called outsize, but it’s a term that is slowly fading out of use as it’s considered a little offensive. What’s gaining ground is the word curvy.
The term plus-size though is used mainly for women’s clothing. For men who are above the average size the accepted term is big and tall, although there is a brand too that is Big&Tall.
A lot of brands do not have the same designs and styles across sizes and the most common grievance most women have is that the larger-sized clothes aren’t as fashionable and as chic as the ones available for smaller sizes. Most women whose dress size was above 12, found that the dresses available for them had frumpy designs and older styles and none brought out the best in their bodies. They were limited to very outdated and old-fashioned prints, cuts and even patterns and sometimes the clothes were far more expensive than those that were available for smaller sizes.
There are a few issues with clothes available in big box stores as more often than not they are relegated to smaller shelves, have fewer options and are sometimes fat-taxed. This means they are more expensive than clothes of average sizes.
The other issue is that plus size clothes are simply bigger versions of the smaller sizes which do not fit the body type of larger women. These clothes do not fit perfectly and tend to look frumpy and dowdy.
Lastly, the long and short of it is not taken into consideration. There are often no plus sizes for shorter people and a lot of alteration is required. The clothes available are not often available in short, regular or tall sizes and can be a great consternation for shoppers.
Fashion is a powerful tool that can enhance confidence and transform one’s overall appearance. While it’s easy to assume that looking fabulous requires a hefty budget or a personal stylist, the truth is that with a few smart fashion hacks, one can achieve a stylish and effortlessly glamorous look. Here are some fashion hacks for men and women that will help them elevate their style game and look fabulous for any occasion.
Fashion hacks for women
Fashion hacks for men
An essential aspect of dressing up is feeling youthful and vibrant. Dressing fashionably can enhance one’s mood and boost confidence. Moreover, staying up-to-date with the latest fashion trends can enable one to shed their comfort zone and explore the intriguing world of fashion. However, some common mistakes can end up making the look feel contrived and overdone. Thus, here are some mistakes to avoid to achieve a young and trendy look:
Wearing ill-fitting clothes
Wearing properly fitting clothes is essential to accentuate one’s figure, which facilitates a young and modern look. For example, wearing well-fitting trousers can make one appear well-toned; hence, it is best to try out jeans and trousers of different sizes and purchase only those that fit well.
Pairing sneakers with casual wear
Wearing sneakers or running shoes is a good idea if one is engaging in athletic activities. However, pairing sneakers with casual wear like skirts and jeans, even for regular outings, can limit one’s options considerably. Footwear plays a significant role in enhancing one’s overall look. Although sneakers are typically comfortable, it helps to check out other types of comfortable yet fashionable footwear, including trendy flip-flops, slip-on loafers, huarache sandals, and strappy pumps.
Owning a wardrobe that represents a bygone era
Long beaded necklaces and bell bottoms may facilitate a great retro look, but wearing only such outfits can cause one to look old-fashioned. It is important to embrace changing trends and find a sweet spot that strikes the perfect balance between one’s personal dressing choices and preferences and the current fashion trends. While one may own a couple of outfits and accessories from a bygone decade, having a diverse and up-to-date wardrobe can ensure a young and happening look.
Using clothes to hide signs of aging
For example, trying to conceal wrinkles by wearing only high-neck and collared clothes can limit one’s choices. Furthermore, such clothes may not suit every occasion. It helps to opt for other subtle but effective ways to steer attention from certain parts of the body. For example, wearing longer necklaces like the opera-style and lariat-design necklaces, which fall below one’s chest and belly button, respectively, can act as excellent pieces of everyday jewelry and can subtly steer attention from the neck.
Wearing only black
While black has an indubitable charm of its own, wearing only black from head to toe can pass off a rather dull and boring look and take away from the radiance of one’s complexion. It helps to pair black with other colors, such as a black top with blue jeans or vice versa. Wearing a deep-neck black top can also ensure that the monotony is broken by the skin showing. Finally, one may pair black outfits with vibrant accessories.
Overlooking the importance of fashionable spectacles
If one wears eyeglasses, there is a lot that can be done with them to make or break an outfit. Wearing outdated spectacles can single-handedly bring down the appeal of one’s look. Conversely, certain basic tips for wearing eyeglasses can significantly elevate one’s style. For example, it is recommended to pick glasses with frames, as a variety of elegant frames is available today. Moreover, frames can help subtly conceal any wrinkles or dark circles around the eyes. The best bet is to look for trendy frames that match one’s outfit or opt for a classic style that matches most looks.
Not picking undergarments carefully
Panty lines are often overlooked, but they can spoil one’s look considerably. For example, thin-laced panties are good choices for light-colored trousers, as these can prevent panty lines from being seen. Visible bra straps, or bra straps contrasting the ensemble’s colors, can also work against an appealing look. Finally, wearing a bra of the wrong size can cause one’s breasts to appear saggy. Thus, it is important to purchase the right undergarments and coordinate them appropriately for each outfit.
Not going for the right make-up
Make-up is an essential aspect of one’s look. The color and brand of make-up one wears can determine whether a look is trendy or outdated. For instance, applying too much foundation or setting powder to hide wrinkles can cause one’s face and neck to appear cakey. Rather, it helps to master the various effective techniques of make-up application so that wrinkles and blemishes are not obvious, but one’s overall appearance is not affected. Moreover, choosing lipsticks of the right color and type is essential to stay trendy. Investing in lip primers and balms can prevent chapped lips and facilitate a smooth surface for the lipstick. Matte lipsticks may cause the lips to look thinner and flatter. Hence, it is advisable to opt for dewy lipsticks for a young and chic look.
Every aspect of one’s look, including accessories, make-up, footwear, and jewelry, is essential to complete the picture. Jumping onto trend bandwagons or sticking to an outdated wardrobe can prevent one from being fashionable. The best bet is to purchase outfits and accessories that are comfortable while being classy and trendy. Today, the online retail market has ensured easy access to various types of clothing, accessories, and footwear, opening up a world of opportunities for aspiring fashionistas. Exploring the latest trends and researching products by different brands can help broaden one’s horizons and can be a wonderful experience for personal growth too.