Are you ready to walk out the door with absolute confidence and show the world that style has no size?
We’re so happy you found us, because this post contains 24 plus size style tips that will inspire you, build your confidence and show you how to dress for your body shape.
We won’t be telling you any outdated fashion “rules”, because we believe you should wear whatever you want to! But if you're feeling stuck in a style rut, have recently put on weight or don't know how to dress for shape and size, then we have rounded up some amazing advice from the Insyze community, plus size stylists and customers on how to look and feel good in your clothes.
So, let's dive in and upgrade your style game to new heights of fabulousness! 🔥💃🛍️
1. Accept Your Body
The number 1 style tip in the game is to have confidence. But confidence can be hard to muster when you’re in a fat body and have been told by society your whole life that you need to lose weight.
Having low confidence means you will stick to ‘safe’ clothes, like oversized tees and leggings. It then feels hard to try anything new, because you have been taught for years to never show your belly outline or cover your arms.
Well the first step towards confidence is acceptance.
Accepting your body for the size and shape that it is. No changes.
Everyone, no matter what size or shape they are, has body hang-ups and it’s ok for you to have bad days – but accepting your body, for all your perceived flaws and all your wonderful assets will allow you to make better style decisions that boost your mood and your confidence.
So how do you go about accepting your body?
Start every day with an affirmation. Close your eyes and say "My body is perfect just the way it is", then work up to saying this to yourself in the mirror.
Look at your body with love and change your inner narrative from negative self-talk, to positive and uplifting love.
Talk to yourself, like you would talk to a friend.
2. Follow people with your body shape for inspiration
If you’re on social media, there’s no doubt you’ve been flooded with videos and photos of tiny size 4 models.
I used to exclusively follow these accounts for inspiration, until I realized that they weren’t inspiring me at all and actually just made me feel bad about my own shape and size.
But then I discovered that there is an amazing community of plus size content creators, who are showing us all how they dress and carry themselves with confidence.
There are so many amazing plus size people posting their daily style and outfits on Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube. Finding influencers with a similar body shape to you can not only inspire your confidence to try new things but also shows you what’s possible for your shape!
Nothing’s off-limits – but it’s always great to have a muse you can turn to when you’re stuck for style ideas.
Check out the influencers here on Insyze.
3. Invest in good underwear
Let's talk about the importance of investing in good underwear… It's time to put those ill-fitting, worn-out panties in the recycling and embrace the power of lingerie and shapewear.
The key pieces you need are:
- A supportive bra that is the correct fit
- Comfortable panties that give support
- Shapewear that can provide compression and support
TIP: Bras and shapewear are INVESTMENT pieces. So don't be afraid to splurge on these items. The higher the quality, the better the fit and more confident you'll feel.
Good underwear and shapewear is an absolute MUST for every plus size woman because it will transform how your clothes fit and feel.
4. Get a skin colored bra and underwear
When you wear light colors, such as white, pastel colors and light fabrics, your underwear will be visible through it… unless it’s skin colored!
This style hack will give your outfits a seamless look and stop your bra showing through.
Nude bras are available in many different shades to suit your skin tone and blend with your skin under your clothes!
5. Don’t just cover up
Wearing baggy t-shirts and leggings are the go-to outfit for many plus size women that lack confidence in their style.
There's nothing wrong with easy-going clothes like leggings, but you won't feel stylish or like you're creatively expressing your personality like this.
You probably won't go from leggings to body-con in one day, so take it slow and gradually try new styles that aren't just cover ups for your body. Try a v-neckline top as a way of easing your way into exploring different style shapes.
6. Know your fabrics
A polyester tank top that clings to you and causes static shocks will not be as flattering a cotton-elastane mix, which is a stretchy well-fitting material.
Fabrics can also be the difference between sweating like crazy and being cool, calm and collected - even in the heat.
For example, synthetic fabrics like polyester are not breathable and can make you feel super sweaty.
Understanding the composition of fabrics will help you choose better fitting clothes when shopping online – and in-store. Our fabric guide has got all the answers.
7. Know your silhouette
There are no set rules when it comes to fashion and style, but the science behind why certain shaped clothes flatter different body silhouettes is great to refer to when in doubt.
For example, empire line dresses look fabulous on pear-shaped ladies with smaller waists and bigger thighs – but empire lines are to be avoided if you’re apple shaped because the fit around the waist can give off maternity vibes and swamp your shape.
See our body shape guides here.
8. Highlight your assets
We always seem to have a long list of features that we don’t like about ourselves, but what about the things we do?
Before you scoff a this and say, there’s nothing about my body I like, remember that the road to acceptance doesn’t mean going from 0 - 100 on self love.
Start gently. With me for example, I realized I was happy to show my neckline and decolletage (low neckline and some cleavage). So I would choose V neck tops that would draw attention to my neckline and made me feel good.
Tip: you can filter by neckline when you shop on Insyze
If you’re self-conscious of your legs, but ok with your arms and chest - then draw more attention to these areas with colors, cut-outs and prints.
But if you’re more self-conscious of your arms and belly and like your legs, then wear styles such as skater dresses and skirts that accentuate your legs and draw attention away from your top half.
9. Accessorize strategically
The power of good accessories is not to be sniffed at. Whether that’s a statement belt, necklace or mega earrings – you can jazz up a basic t-shirt and jeans combo with accessories to create a wow factor.
Our favorite tip is to invest in a statement bag to accessorize with your everyday clothing, as the bag will instantly make your whole outfit appear chic. A good bag will take your look from $10 to $1million.
10. When in doubt, wear a wrap dress
The humble wrap dress is a style that fits every body shape and is extremely flattering. The same can’t be said for any other style of dress, but if you have a trusty wrap dress in your wardrobe then you’ll never be short of a go-to outfit.
We love this super flattering wrap from ethical plus-size brand Dani Marie The Label.
11. Invest in quality basics
Just like quality underwear, some trusty basics will see you through the best and worst of times. Investing in quality basics are great for a minimalist style, or for those times when you just can’t be bothered.
Thick straps on vest tops and non-clinging fabrics will help you to look and feel your best.
Investing in organic cotton and clothing made from high quality natural fabrics will last longer and elevate your entire look.
12. Don’t be afraid to size up for a better fit.
When it comes to dress size, don’t pigeonhole yourself! The size on the label is just a number, it doesn’t mean anything or stand for what you are as a person.
You may find a larger or smaller size than you think you are could be a better fit – so always try multiple sizes when you’re out shopping. Free returns for shopping on Insyze make this easy to do at home too.
13. Know your measurements
Sometimes, online shopping can be stressful when you’re unsure of which size to buy. That’s why knowing your measurements can be very helpful, as it allows you to shop for fit rather than by size and will result in fewer returns and a happier you when your clothes arrive!
14. Wear that crop top!
Contrary to the old fashion rules, crop tops can actually be more flattering for plus size people than wearing long baggy tops. That’s because plus size crop tops that are designed well, can give you shape, especially when paired with high waisted jeans or skirts without making you look wider.
Just because you aren’t a size S doesn’t mean you can’t wear crop tops. Just look at Garner style, Gabi Fresh and Simone Mariposa– all these plus size women wear crop tops and ROCK them. If you want to wear a crop top then do – a bit of skin showing can look super cute. If you’re self-conscious but want to wear a crop top, team it with a cool jacket or cardigan – then you can have a peek of skin showing but still feel covered. Confidence is everything.
15. Tailoring is your friend
Never underestimate the power of good tailoring.
The problem with some plus-size clothes is that they can sometimes be a bit shapeless, but for less than $20 you can have dresses and jackets nipped in all the right places to suit your exact body. The result is beautiful fitting clothes that you can feel happy and confident in.
16. Avoid flimsy fabrics
Knowing your fabrics is important, avoiding the bad ones even more so. Cheap fabrics often fade and are flimsy to wear – it’s also bad for the environment to have too many items considered ‘throwaway fashion'.
Investing in better quality clothing will elevate your entire look - and it’s better for the planet too.
17. Embrace prints
Prints are a vibrant way of making a style statement. Don’t be afraid to dress boldly! Just because we’re plus size, doesn’t mean we have to blend into the background and shrink ourselves.
Wearing larger patterns and prints is said to be more flattering for plus-size ladies – but we say, wear what you want!
18. Say it with shoes
If you’re still finding your confidence and want to keep your clothing simple, then get a cute statement pair of shoes to express your style.
No matter how you feel about your body, your choice of shoes will never leave you questioning yourself.
They’re also a great way of adding some personality and flair to your outfit, without going all out. We love textures such as snake print boots with a plain black dress – instant glam.
19. Make your own rules
When it comes to your personal style, the only rules to follow are the ones that you curate and know work for you. You don’t have to follow trends if you don’t like them. Allow your style to be a reflection of your personality and most importantly, feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing.
20. Get your hair done
Your hair really helps to frame your face and adds an extra statement to your look. If you’re feeling low in confidence or have an event coming up, get a blow wave or style your hair in glamorous curls.
Making that extra bit of effort with your hair will lift your mood and as we keep saying, confidence is the best accessory!
21. Watch video reviews on Insyze
Seeing how clothes really fit and feel on people with the same body shape and size as you is not just a confidence booster, but it also helps you be inspired while you shop!
Our customers upload video reviews of their purchases and give their honest, authentic feedback.
You can shop plus size clothing in sizes 12 - 40 right here on Insyze with shoppable video reviews.
22. Pamper yourself
Making sure you treat yourself with love is one of the best ways to practice self-acceptance and confidence. Love your body by pampering yourself often. Whether that’s getting a massage, nourishing your body with a smoothie or getting a nice pedicure. Looking glowing and polished is always a style winner.
Here’s how you can practice self-care.
23. Check your lighting
Whether you’re trying outfits on in a store or at home, making sure you’re in flattering lighting will allow you to see how well an outfit really looks. Harsh fluorescent light is not advised for anyone of any size, so never judge your body under this kind of lighting. Lots of natural light is best for your clothes and make-up.
24. Get personalized style recommendations
At Insyze after taking out style quiz, we will match you with daily style recommendations of plus size clothing to add to either your collections or to shop.
You can also reach out to our plus size stylists on Chat and get a free personal shopping session to help you find the perfect outfit.