Plus size clothing: what to wear if you’re plus size and over 50
It’s no secret that women come in all shapes and sizes, but all too often retailers cater only to size 10 – 16 while ignoring those who are plus size… not to mention those who are plus size AND over the age of 50, which is a whole different ball game.
So what items of clothing are the most flattering for plus size, older women? Which brands are the go-tos for us 50-pluses? And what should you consider when dressing to suit your shape? We reveal all (Not literally. Don’t panic.)
Having a few staples up your sleeve is a good way to make sure you have a top-notch plus-size wardrobe. Here are the essentials that should get you through any occasion… as well as a day pottering around the house
1. Wrap dresses
If you’re looking for plus-size clothing over the age of 50, wrap dresses are a definite must-buy. The V-neck shape is a particularly complimentary style for those who are heavier on top, while the wrap element will highlight your waist shape in a pleasing way. If you feel like you have too much ‘decolletage’ (or boobs) on show, you can always wear a slip or vest top underneath. Dress them up with colourful tights and chunky jewellery or dress them down with leggings and boots. Versatile and available in a range of styles and fabrics, a wrap dress is a wardrobe staple every woman should own, and they are super comfy, too.
2. Tunics
Tunics or longer tops are perfect for fuller figures as they are flattering on most, if not all, body shapes and hide any areas that you might not feel too comfortable with. Bottoms and tums, we are looking at YOU.
If you can afford to splurge, buy a range of tunics in different prints and colors to bulk out your capsule wardrobe and provide a bit of variation on days when you can’t just can’t be bothered to decide what to wear. Comfy and fun, don a tunic with jeans during the day or pair a longer style with leggings if you’re off out. They’re the ultimate in comfy-but-chic just-chuck-it-on outfits.
3. Jeans or jeggings
As for trousers, jeans are your best friend, but it’s comfy stretch fabrics all the way, we say! Find a pair with a bit of give at the waist and try a darker colour (black or dark blue) if you want to make your legs look slimmer. Jeggings are the ideal alternative to jeans if you find the latter isn’t comfortable enough. Pair with a longer length top, a blouse or a jumper depending on the occasion (and weather!).
4. Tailored outfits
A tailored fit – not too tight or too loose – makes any outfit look polished and well put together. There’s something of a lack of tailored options for plus size women, but brands such as JD Williams have a range of trousers and jackets that are perfect for adding to your work wardrobe or or going out in. Tailored clothing will make you feel confident in clothes that fit you like a glove. And it’s more than affordable, too, if you know where to look.
5. Curve-hugging pencil skirts
Clothes should make you feel good, not frumpy, which is why we reject the age-old rhetoric of ‘dressing to suit your age’. Choose styles that flatter your body shape and you’ll never go wrong.
Hip-hugging pencil skirts accentuate curves, and are a wardrobe staple that you can wear with a tucked in blouse or top for work, at an event, or just for going out. A pencil skirt gives the illusion of a defined waist and, while it may be cinched around the middle, it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. Most high-waisted pencil skirts come in stretchy fabrics that sit comfortably and provide a bit of breathing room at the same time.
Top style tips for plus size women
Is there a rule of thumb when it comes to choosing plus size clothes? Not really, according to Gransnetters, but these five tried and trusted tips might just give you a steer in the right direction.
- Don’t be afraid to embrace your curves
- Know your shape and what suits you – accentuate your best features
- Go darker in heavier areas, such as hips or legs
- Stock up on the basics and build up a capsule wardrobe
- Incorporate a splash of colour into outfits, whether it’s through your clothes or accessories – larger jewellery pieces are great for adding extra colour without having to feel too brave
source:https://www.gransnet.com/life-and-style/style-and-beauty/plus-size-clothing
