More Style Tips for Oval Shaped Plus Size Women

It's easy to feel left behind by fashion when you're apple shaped (aka Oval Shaped). And of course it's even worse if you're plus sized. (Yes, it is absolutely possible to be apple shaped and as thin as Angelina Jolie, who is herself apple shaped.) Every plus sized apple shaped women has tried on clothes, discovered they were too tight, and blamed her stomach for that. But it isn't the tummy's fault, and a larger size might not make a difference. It's all about the shape of the clothes.

You can pick clothes that work with the shape of your body. What you can't do is change your basic body shape. Anyone who says that certain exercises or shapewear can transform you into an hourglass shape is either lying or deluded. There is nothing wrong with how your body is shaped. If you're uncomfortable in your clothes, it's because the clothes aren't made for you.

Don't Break Up Your Curves

Picture a dress - just a standard sheath dress. And now picture it with color blocking - black on the bottom and red on top. Only the seam between the colors is at the biggest part of the bust. You wouldn't wear that dress because it visually cuts across one of your curves. It would look weird. And it would probably be uncomfortable to move in because the seam wouldn't lie right when you moved.

Treat your tummy the same way. Dresses look great on you. If you want to wear separates, go with tunics because they cover your entire middle.

Decide What You Want to Emphasize

An apple shaped body isn't just about the tummy. It comes with relatively narrow hips, slender arms, and shapely legs that go on for days.

If you want to show off your gorgeous gams, wear a dress or skirt that's as short as you dare. The Sleeveless Shift Dress is a great choice for you. Or wear Slim Leg Pants with a Tunic or Swing Top. Long jackets like the Cascading Scarf Jacket and Kimono Jacket are perfect for ovals.

If you'd rather draw attention to your chest, you can't go wrong with an empire waist. The Cross Over Tunic and Faux Wrap Maxi Dress nip in right below your bust - the narrowest part of your frame - before flaring out a bit to make room for your middle. There is a reason the empire waist is a maternity department staple - it gives the tummy all the room it needs without smothering your chest in excess fabric. It won't make you look huge - it'll make you look like you're clothes are comfortable and stylish.

What About Shapewear?

It's not my thing, but some plus size fashionistas I know swear by it. Of course I've asked them why. It has to do with supporting their tummies, not squishing them in an attempt to make them look smaller. Kind of like a bra. You may want to give it a try.

Just remember to go up a size when buying shapewear because if anything about the size of women's clothes made sense, the Earth would spin off its axis.

It's Not You, It's Them

Some clothes just don't work on your oval shaped frame and that's about them, not you. Separates that really look best with a tucked-in top like Palazzo Pants and Pencil Skirts - they're not for you. But clothes shopping is a bit like dating - sometimes you just have to kick someone (or a style) to the curb.

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Check out our other posts about dressing your apple shaped body.