How to Shop When You’re Curvy but Not Plus Size

I am not a size double zero–nor am I classified as “plus size.” I’m definitely a curvy girl though. I have huge shoulders, boobies, and mermaid thighs. It can be hard to shop. While most clothing stores have my size, that doesn’t necessarily mean that outfit will be flattering on me. I’ve learned over the years how to dress for my body so that I feel comfortable and confident in what I’m wearing.

Let me preface this by saying THERE ARE NO RULES. If you want a bikini body…put on a bikini. I truly and honestly believe that everyone is unique and different and beautiful in their own way. This is just how I dress as a curvy woman. 🙂

Ok time for tips.

How to Shop When You’re Curvy but Not Plus Size

1. Find a good bra and a good pair of Spanx.

Proper undergarments are the best. You can look ten pounds lighter with the right bra, and the right shapewear helps smooth out any lumps or bumps.

2. Wear layers. 

Adding a kimono, vest or jacket can help you feel more confident in tight tops or dresses. It helps hide the areas that I don’t want seen. Do not add extra bulk though. If you are wearing a bulky sweater, wear a thin tank underneath. The goal is to avoid looking shapeless.

3. Create your waist. 

Cross body cinching, using a wide belt, or having your tailor nip in the waist. Creating a waist helps accentuate your curves and gives you a womanly shape.

4. Avoid light colored jeans.

 If you have mermaid thighs like I do, darker jeans help slim them out. I also avoid light fading around my inner thigh so I don’t make them look bigger.

5. Give yourself a little boost. 

This blog isn’t called Hel On Heels for nothing.. All of my shoes have a little height to make my legs look longer. Yes, even my tennis shoes (which I affectionately call my tenni-pumps) have memory foam and a thick sole. I have a SUPER long torso and teeny little stumps for legs. Any length helps.

6. High-waist is your friend.

 If you carry bottom weight, wearing high-waisted bottoms can help balance it out and tuck everything in.

7. Vertical over Horizontal. 

I love horizontal stripes but I avoid them because they make me look shorter. Also, I always opt for vertical stripes to give me length. I do like a good color block though. Color block dress, color block sweater, I’m all about it.

8. Buy clothes that fit.

I am so guilty of buying clothes that are too big to hide my problem areas. Sometimes though I worry that I look like a sack of potatoes. One of my goals this year is to buy clothes that fit and feel confident in what I’m wearing.

9. Show off your favorite assets.

 If you have fantastic boobs, show em off. If your booty is worth a Luke Bryan song, highlight it. So, if you love something about your body, you have every freaking right to showcase it. Wear what makes you feel comfortable. For example, I have really big shoulders, but I like them. I wear off-the-shoulder, cold shoulder, and slouchy sweaters all the time. Putting my shoulders in a t-shirt or short sleeve shirt makes me uncomfortable because I feel like they look bigger. I like to let them breathe!

10. Be confident. 

Confidence is key. You are beautiful no matter what you are wearing. Whatever you choose to wear, be confident and know that you look great!

What are your favorite tips for dressing for your body type? Follow me on Instagram for more updates!

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