Dressing for full-figured women...

Today I want to concentrate on celebrating the shape of the fuller-figured woman. The average sized woman in the USA is a size 12 or bigger, despite the fact that in the media we are surrounded by models and stick-thin (mostly) celebrities.  It's ironic that even though a size 12 is the average size of the majority of women, we are still bombarded with unrealistic images in the media which in turn creates a lot of angst among many plus-sized women.

So being able to accept your body and celebrating your shape is key.  Being bigger doesn't necessarily mean unfit, although this seems to be the general thought.  I know many plus-size women who are active and fit and healthy, so the idea that bigger women are just lazy and unfit is a myth!

So please read my tips on how fuller-figured women should celebrate their shape and learn how to look great whatever size you may be!

Consider simplicity, subtle sexiness, and a little structure...these three things are key!

• Choose close-to-the-body cuts.  Caftans and sack or boxy shapes will only add pounds.  Look for tailored pieces like fitted button-ups, straight skirts and trousers, and wrap dresses that skim the body and give the waist definition.
• Keep it streamlined.  Your clothes should be sleek - frill-free and not overly adorned.  Think flat-front skirts and pants, as heavy pleats and too much volume look extra bulky. Pick tops that are relatively simple, without layers of ruffles and embellishment.
• Wear draping shapes.  While a structured look always works, pliable fabrics like jersey can be your best friend.  You can wrap, twist, and gather a soft stretchy fabric around your body so it highlights some parts and hides others.
• Pick a basic palette. Solid hues in lights or darks will serve you well.  But don't avoid brights altogether. A rich red is always striking; ditto lush jewel tones. Big prints aren't best, so go for monochromatic to create the slimmest line, or wear simple, contrasting shades like black and white. 

Celebs that are fuller-figured and who always look great in my opinion include Camryn Manheim, the lovely Adele, and the gorgeous and always sexy Nigella Lawson.