Hi, I’m Debra. I’ve been designing special occasion outfits alongside my Mother, Ann Balon, for the past 35 years.
Despite the great demand for plus size special occasion wear, we realised long ago that choice was limited. We then set out to create styles that allowed all our customers to feel both glamorous and comfortable on the day, whether Mother of the Bride or Groom, or simply attending a special occasion. We listened carefully to what women wanted (for example beautiful outfits that hide the belly!) and over the years, have incorporated what we’ve learned into all our designs. We’ve picked up some great ideas along the way, so if you’re looking for your perfect slimming plus size outfit, but struggle with body image and are not sure where to start, then this article is for you!
Rather than just following the latest fashion trends, it’s more important to find something that flatters you and your body shape. You want to feel confident and comfortable on these special days, that can often go on until the early hours!
Here are our top ten styling tips for the fuller figure with advice on how to find a figure-flattering plus size outfit that will make you feel simply fabulous.
- The key to a winning outfit is balance – your aim is for your figure to look in proportion. Most of us have some areas of our body that we’re not overly keen on and perhaps want to conceal, alongside others that we’re proud of and might like to show off!
- Select fabrics that don’t cling but drape nicely.
- Buy what fits your figure best and rely on colours and embellishments to divert the eye away from any imperfections.
- If you carry weight around your hips and legs, choose an outfit with an elasticated waist for comfort and looser fitting camisoles and jackets that fall below the hips. A-Line skirts are a great choice rather than snug fitting skirts which tend to emphasise the bottom half of your body.
- A plunging V-neck or an embellished neckline also helps to draw attention away from your lower body.
- If you are larger around the bust and middle, try wearing a scooped or a V neckline to lengthen the appearance of the torso. Slightly A-line jackets which finish at your lower body, just below the hip, again elongate the body disguising any problem areas.
- Subtly flared dresses with wide straps and larger jackets with a gentle silhouette can help to smooth out any lumps and bumps. V-necks or sweetheart necklines will again emphasize your bust.
- If you are more of a trouser person, slim cut trousers are usually best avoided, whereas loosely fitted trouser suits with camisoles and jackets cut slightly longer at the back and front are definitely more flattering.
- Elegant, laced jackets offer great arm coverage without causing overheating helping you to remain elegant and cool.
- One final piece of advice – when you buy your Mother of the Bride / Groom or special occasion outfit, think versatility. After all, you don’t want to buy something for it to only be worn once then left hanging in your wardrobe. For example, if your outfit has a jacket, maybe you could match it with a pair of trousers or a skirt for a more relaxed look? The same goes for a camisole, skirt or pants – everything can be separated and teamed up with something already in your wardrobe. Take a look at our Outfit Versatility page for some clever ideas on how to achieve a great matched look!
