Weather patterns are a key dictator on how we get to style our wardrobe. Although winter brings with it grey and dull clouds, there’s no reason for our clothing to mimic the same gloom. As a matter of fact, the cool season avails us an opportunity to maximize on the unique apparel that couldn’t work during the very hot days.
Now, this is not to say that you should forget about your colorful summer look, don’t stash it too far away because you just might find a functional way to build together a sophisticated look! In this piece, you will find great tips on how to spice up your plus size winter clothes, and most importantly, get that look that leaves you feeling, comfy, supported, and drop-dead gorgeous! Because looking bulky is one of the daunting fears plus women have when winter shopping, here you will find handy ideas designed to flatter your body while avoiding shapeless appearances.
Let take a look at our 10 tips for the ultimate plus size winter wardrobe. In addition to style, more details on where to get the best prices and how to shop online for the right fit will all be dished out. In other words, after this read, you will be all packed and ready for that winter train. So, let’s first start with those dos and don’ts, shall we?
1. Sweater-up in Reference to Your Frame
Thicker fabrics are the go-to option during this time and it is no wonder considering the cold snow outside. However, there’s a twist to it when dressing a full-figured body. Unlike smaller girls, you can’t afford to throw on any over-size sweater, or very thick disproportional knits. The problem with this is that you risk appearing larger or unappealingly conceal your curves.
So instead of hurrying for any design, go for one that accentuates your body though a form-fitting formation. It doesn’t have to be all the way tight, but neither should it droop in the wrong places. Pay attention to the arms and length too depending on what you plan to pair with at the bottom.
For women that are quite busty, it’s probably best not to close up your neckline too much because this creates an illusion of being much heavier. Instead, consider an open V-neckline or a wrap sweater for balance. Add a hint of style with playful woolen prints, unique patterns, and colors and you are good to go!
2. Rock Your Knee-high Boots
Notice I said knee-high and not just any boots. Well of course you can always judge what goes best with your outfit, whether an ankle or Chelsea boot, but there’s some serious oomph that long boots add. Better yet have them reach up to your thighs for a fashion statement.
In addition to being warm, boots are such a versatile accessory that can switch up your style once you land on the right fit and color. Before you can dismiss this idea, the market place is full of retailers who have their sizes extended to fit wide calves. Once you set your mind on finding the right pair, you certainly will discover numerous shoe designers who know all about the plus-size boot struggles. You can opt to add some texture with a suede pair or go classic with the all-time favorite leather. Whatever you fancy, you sure will be turning heads.
3. Experiment with Warm Tones
Typically, a chubby girl is bound to look slimmer in black or similar dark shades, but this hack shouldn’t strictly tie you down to mono-hues. Just like summer, have some pop of color to diversify your look. Reds and browns particularly blend so well as accent tones in winter. You can keep your grays and blacks but always break it with something conspicuous.
Scarves afford the perfect opportunity to do that, so play it up with a funky design. Basically, your color palette guide should revolve around neutrals or naturals in contrast with a bold hue. The same applies to patterns. Feel free to mix and match but with cautious proportion. The whole idea is to have your prints coordinate rather than compete. Abide by this and you will achieve some sparkle in dreary weather.
4. Bring on the Skinny Belt
If you’re not already a step ahead in this, it’s about time to add this accessory to your closet. We all know how freezing degrees can push us into heavy clothing, which at times, deprives us of chic styles. Not to worry because this tip has got you covered!
A skinny belt can go on just about anything from dresses, tops, and yes, those large winter coats. It allows you cinch in your waist area thereby accentuating your overall symmetry. Some coats do come with a matching belt, however, in case you own a trench that doesn’t have one, you can always buy. Acquire a variety of colors and have fun with it.
5. Fashionably Add On Layers
Remember those summer clothes I said you could re-wear? This is where they come in. For a heavy girl, layering only makes sense when the undergarments are lighter. If you add large amounts of dense fabric you will look overly buff, which is unflattering, so the key here is to keep things light-weight.
Grab your summer tee, plaid shirt, your cami, and pair with cute a leather jacket. It’s a total vibe. Or you can play around with a knit sweater, long fluffy trench, and a vibrant scarf. For those scared of drowning in long fabric, how about a cardigan? It might not be as warm but you can make up for this with a turtle neck.
If you’re in a rush and have not time to think about compatible garments, throw on a hood shirt. In seconds you are out and on the go. It’s all about creativity and picking out what best describes your personality. Delve deep, stretch the limits and see what ideas you come up with.
6. Don’t Ditch the Pencil Skirt
It’s not unusual to incline towards jeans and khakis during the cold, but what if I showed you an easy trick that will have you return to your favorite skirts? All you need to do is get a comfy pair of tights or stockings, and voila! You’re good to go. Just like that cold legs become a non- issue.
Be sure to go for interesting prints that will blend well with your skirt, preferably dark or opaque versions. Team your bottom with a cute top and maybe a cape blazer, absolutely gorgeous. In case the cold proves a bit too harsh, cover up your arms with a long-sleeve blouse or warm turtle neck. There’s literally a ton of ways to go about it. Lastly, finish the look with some comfy pumps or classic loafers.
7. Get the Extra Support
It’s one thing to depend on clothing to shape your figure but an unswerving bet would be on inner shaping attire. This time, you have less sweating to worry about because of cooler temperatures, so this idea is quite practical.
Go for a slimming corset, one with adjustable loops and a body-hugging fit. Ensure to look out for a clean finish, that way you don’t have unpleasant marks popping up from underneath. A good shaper will offer you the right amount of comfort, hold, and support you require.
8. Take Advantage of Headgears
There is absolutely no better time to capitalize on head accessories other than the winter season. It’s literally the perfect excuse to add some extra detail to your wardrobe. For starters, you can opt to go with a cool beanie, a curvy hat, or the famous beret classic.
Anything between these choices will give you that extra boost on your outfit, more so when you go for a matching set. Ultimately, the kind of outfit you’re going for should be the focal point. Are you aiming for a laid back look, or is it a business casual? Would you like to look sophisticated or playful? Let these pointers guide you on the nature of head accessory best suit, of course in light of the occasion.
9. Treat Yourself to Some Luxury
It shouldn’t hurt to splurge on quality fabric, as long as it is multi-purpose and promises durable service. Without a doubt, a fur coat is one of those items that fit into this description. I mean you can rock it with a dress, a skirt, a pair of vintage jeans, some tapered pants or even a monochrome suit (if you’re bold enough).
Fur has and continues to rank as the divine fashion statement world over. Now that it clearly is a functional tool during the gray days, all the more reason to start building a collection early. Alternatively, you could have one that doubles up for office wear and late evening parties. In case your budget isn’t flexible enough to accommodate real fur, you can always improvise with faux fur coats, as they also look great!
10. Finish off Your Look with Statement Jewels and Accessories.
Your neckpieces, earrings, and watches are not exclusive for the summer. The warm air coupled with sandy beaches may certainly create the perfect mood for exquisite jewelry, but the change of weather is no excuse to falter on this habit. After all, a chic wardrobe is one that pays attention to the smaller details.
Get yourself a cute bracelet, a vintage chain, one you can easily throw over any outfit and go, and lastly a cute handbag. Burgundy tones are especially lovely for winter so get you might want to get one in a similar shade.
Additional tips;
- When buying coats, go for those with deep cut pockets to keep your hands warm.
- Always save an extra pair of gloves for the outdoor.
- Jackets are good but should be structured and not overly fluff.
- Other than boots, sneakers act as a good alternative for the cold.
- A sweater dress serves as a fancy dress up for sweater clothing.
- Always balance your clothing proportionately, for example, a loose sweater should be paired with something tighter at the bottom and vice versa.
When to Shop for Plus Size Winter Clothes
An off the season haul comes with the advantage of discounts. You are more likely to fetch lower prices as you edge close to frostier weather or just after the season has elapsed. That means just before fall you ought to be thinking of a winter clothing budget. The latter option works nearly as well in preparation for the next cold season, the only problem is that you may find the leftovers or limited options.
Holiday offers are another alternative to fetching cheaper prices. Be keen on major sale days such as Black Fridays or any other special occasions when retailers often drop their fees. Even so, before making a purchase, take your time to compare who is offering friendlier prices without compromising on quality. Once you zero down on a particular vendor, ask if you can get a bargain for bulk quantities.
How to be Successful When Shopping Online
The pain of having spent money on an item only to have it not fit is one many plus size women can relate to. The sizes often advertised barely rise to their much-appraised glory, with other brands hardly making an effort to cater to the curvy figure.
Although certain circumstances may force us to fall back on online winter shopping, it is important to lay down some ground rules so as not to end up in the same pitfalls. First, stick to brands from which you have previously brought from. This means that you are familiar with their fittings and have a fairly acute estimation on what would fit and what wouldn’t.
Next, go with reliable plus-size labels. Brands that specialize in full-figure clothing are vastly aware of the cuts and designs best flattering for a chubby girl. So rather than extend slim attire in larger sizes, the labels are more involved with highlighting the plus figure and creating what works best for her.
Lastly, if you are torn between two close ranging sizes, it is safer to go a size up. At worst, fitting may be a bit loose, something a needle and machine can quickly fix, as opposed to having an unfitting size. However, if you limit yourself to the first tip, you won’t have to worry about wrong sizes.
Conclusion
Stylish plus size clothing gets more difficult to find as the weather grows colder but with a bit of diligence, you should find fresh inspirations. Strive to accentuate at least one part of your body if you are unable to emphasize your full figure. With the above wardrobe staples, your closet should be well prepared to brave the cold!