Finding The Perfect Dress: How To Look And Feel Your Best At Any Size

The days of shopping at the lone, plus-size store in town, sifting through racks and racks of frumpy fashions, are long gone.
Even if you’ve got a few more curves than the average woman, now you can choose from a variety of real and virtual world shops for stylish dresses that will add confidence and style to your walk. Here are some expert tips for choosing the perfect frock at any size.

Go with your (style) gut

Your dresses, like everything in your wardrobe, should be expressions of your personal style. Choose a piece that makes you feel confident and comfortable, one that allows you to show off your awesome style in the best possible light. When looking for the right dress, go with your gut: If it feels too tight, too short, too long—too anything, really—it’s probably not the right one for you.

Fit it or forget it

A good dress is nothing if it’s not the right fit, so knowing what works best on your body type is key. With a curvier body type, look to accentuate your shape by opting for fitted pieces with straight skirts or belts at the waist. If you’re more comfortable in something that minimizes certain areas, such as the hips, then dresses with fitted waists and A-line or flared skirts will look best.

Find the right fabric

Like the fit of a dress, fabric can also accentuate your assets—and your problem areas. Choose a fabric that fits, but doesn’t cling, one that drapes well over the areas you want to show off while still concealing all of the right places. When appropriate, for example, a matte jersey dress can work for nearly every body type. Other fabrics, such as wool or chunky knits, can often cause you to lose shape or add more bulk than intended.