4 Plus Size Silhouettes That Flatter Curves

Finding clothes that match your style and flatter your figure is a challenge for every woman. Add on the hurdle of being a woman with curves and that can make clothes shopping quite a struggle. We hear you! And we’re here to help.

There’s a key ingredient to having a closet full of plus size clothes you love to wear and that make you feel beautiful.

It’s all about the silhouette. When shopping for the perfect plus size dress or plus size jumpsuit--think silhouette first! Get to know the 4 silhouettes that’ll help open up a new wardrobe of figure-flattering, chic, trendy and comfortable plus size outfits!

3 RULES FOR PICKING WHAT TO WEAR WHEN YOU’RE PLUS SIZE:

1. Know Your Shape

Plus size women come in all shapes and sizes. Which is why knowing your body shape is essential to guiding your wardrobe decisions. If you’re unsure of what body shape you are, head over to our How to Determine & Dress For Your Body Shape blog to find out!

2. Break the Rules

Gone are the days of following the “curvy guidelines” telling plus size women to wear black, avoid stripes and bright colors. Break the rules! Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident!

3. Embrace All Trends

Fashion trends are great for plus size women wanting to flaunt or cover up their curves. Fashion statements are inherently eye-catching. Embrace them in areas you want to highlight or away from areas you’re looking to minimize.

STYLING TIPS FOR PLUS SIZE FIGURES:

Not too tight, just right

It’s important to strike the perfect balance between fitted and too tight. When styles are too tight, they pull at the seams, show our undergarment lines and look...well...too tight. Your clothes should glide over your body.

Accessory size matters

Disproportionately small jewelry or handbags can be outshined by curves, while also making a plus size woman’s body appear larger than it is. Whether for daytime or a night out, make sure your bag is large enough to be seen behind your hand. And opt for larger statement earrings or necklaces that provide a great opportunity to show off your own personal style!

There’s no shame in shapewear

It’s a universal closet staple. Every woman has a moment where they want something to look smoother, more supported or perhaps a bit more cinched up. Shapewear was made to help define & enhance. And what more perfect use for defining & enhancing a woman with curves?!

Choose the right neckline

Choosing the right neckline can change your -- yup, you guessed it! -- proportion! Lower necklines are more flattering as they help to elongate the neck and draw the eye upward.

Befriend your local tailor

Sometimes you fall in love with a dress or jumpsuit but it doesn’t fit exactly the way you want it to. Instead of returning it, take it to the tailor! Find the size that fits best in most areas and then have the tailor adjust the piece so it fits you just right.

JUMPSUITS

If jumpsuits haven’t become your new best friend yet, they will soon! Not only are plus size jumpsuits fashionable, but they’re versatile, fun to wear and comfy. These one-piece outfits offer a crisp look and elongate the body, creating a figure flattering, slimming silhouette.

Woman posing wearing Black Sara Black Jumpsuit from Connected Apparel

Sara Black Jumpsuits

SHOP SARA
Woman posing wearing Navy/Maize Morgan Cropped Jumpsuit from Connected Apparel

Morgan Cropped Wide Leg Jumpsuit

SHOP MORGAN

Fit & Flare Dresses

The fit-and-flare dress gradually flares out from the waist to the hem of the skirt and is fitted in the bodice; a style which is especially becoming on women with curvy figures. Similar to A-line dresses, the fit-and-flare dress is designed to draw attention to the waistline, but has a fuller skirt that’s more forgiving in the hip area. This silhouette is one of the most flattering dresses for curves.

Tonya Red Floral Cowl Neck Midi Dress

SHOP TONYA

Audrey Asymmetrical Dress

SHOP AUDREY

SHEATH DRESSES

Designed to fit close to the body, sheath dresses usually sit at or just above the knees. The sheath silhouette provides a stylish, elegant option that’s appropriate for both work and social events. For our Connected Apparel plus size family looking for dresses that hide the tummy, sheath silhouettes are the perfect option.

Sally Eyelash Metallic Knit Dress

SHOP SALLY

Stevie Pale Nude Lace Dress

SHOP STEVIE

FORM-FITTING DRESSES

Even though form-fitting silhouettes are narrow and fit snugly, they’re a great choice for women who wear plus size dresses. They nicely hug your curves and typically have a good amount of stretch, making them surprisingly comfy to wear.

Liz Black Polka Dot Dress

SHOP LIZ

Lisa 2.0 Faux Wrap Dress

SHOP LISA 2.0