How to Not Look Frumpy When Plus-Size (2024)

How to Not Look Frumpy When Plus-Size (1)

For the longest time fat and frumpy were just two words that went hand in hand and literally the only clothing options available for plus-size were boring, tired and something your grandma would wear. (Apologies to all the stylish grannies.)

Finding ways to not look frumpy when plus size can be a struggle but it doesn’t have to be .Whether you want to look fifty not frumpy or are searching for tips on how to dress modestly without looking frumpy, we’ve got some top tips for you.

What does frumpy mean?

For many of us, frumpy is a word that you don’t want to hear associated with your outfit and when you look at the definition in the dictionary it’s clear to see why. Frumpy literally means a style of clothing that is dowdy, drab, shapeless and sloppy. To dress in a frumpy way is careless and like you just threw on the first things you could find in the morning, regardless if they go together or even fit.

How to not look frumpy when plus size?

Dress for you body shape

Dressing to not look frumpy is all about balancing your proportions. Know your body shape and you're halfway there.

Stand in front of a mirror and hold a long straight rod (like a ruler or stick) up against your body. From here you can see where the curves of the body are. See our definitive body shape guide for top tips.

Choose Fitted styles

To ditch the frump, we recommend wearing fitted styles rather than clothes that are just too big for you. The best way to do this may be to get your favorite clothing items tailored or even handy with a needle and thread or a sewing machine.

If you do want to wear oversized styles though, commit to one thing. For example, wear a voluminous top like something with shoulder pads, OTT sleeves or a peplum but then then pair it with a tailored skirt or pants (ditto the other way round.)

Know your Measurements.

We all know that clothing sizing can be all over the place and this is so true for plus-size as the way things are scaled up just doesn’t make sense. That’s where your tape measure will be your best friend. This will help you to quickly find where you fit on the brand’s size chart and find the right fit for you.

Choose fabrics with stretch

Clothes that are made from fabrics that flow with the natural curve of your body and drape over,rather than cling to, parts that you’d rather they didn’t are perfect for ditching the frump and helping you to feel fantastic.

Create a focal point

Flaunt your best features and/or add some definition to your look. Whether that's by adding a belt to cinch in your waist or adding a statement necklace to highlight your décolletage.

Invest in great underwear

It all starts with the basics and great quality underwear that actually fits is key to any look. Bridget Jones style granny panties and high waist briefs with no VPL are perfect for creating smooth lines and making you feel supported.

The bra you wear can also have a big impact on your finished look. See our guide on finding the best bra for you.

Join us Insyze chat to share your top tips for ditching the frump for plus-size.

How to Not Look Frumpy When Plus-Size (2024)

FAQs

How to Not Look Frumpy When Plus-Size? ›

Wear fitted clothing to flatter your figure.

Look for shirts that have darting or shape to them so they skim your body. For pants, choose a straight-leg, bootcut, or tailored look. However, avoid a relaxed fit or trouser pant. For skirts or dresses, look for pencil, a-line, or fit-and-flare options.

What is the best style for an overweight woman? ›

Wear fitted clothing to flatter your figure.

Look for shirts that have darting or shape to them so they skim your body. For pants, choose a straight-leg, bootcut, or tailored look. However, avoid a relaxed fit or trouser pant. For skirts or dresses, look for pencil, a-line, or fit-and-flare options.

How do I not look sloppy when fat? ›

Suggestions include avoiding baggy clothes and opting for clothes that flatter the body shape. It also recommends choosing vertical stripes and lighter fabrics, as well as balanced color schemes. The article highlights the significance of wearing proper undergarments and experimenting with subtler belts.

How to dress sexier when overweight? ›

Emphasize your waist.

This means wearing clothes that fit properly and accentuate your features, rather than trying to simply hide them or cover them up. Use colors and patterns to your advantage to draw attention to your waistline with vertical stripes or an interesting belt.

What should you not wear if you are overweight? ›

Garments that are too large can actually add bulk and obscure your body's natural shape. Instead, look for clothes that skim and gently outline your silhouette without being too tight or too loose.” Trust us; it is time to ditch the clothes that do not flatter your body. So, how to dress when you are overweight?

What design a chubby woman must wear to look slimmer? ›

Put away the khakis if you're trying to disguise wide hips. Opt for a deep-colored blouse and dark pants with thin vertical pinstripes instead. When you wear a flattering shade like black, not only will you look thinner, you'll also feel more at ease with your body and move with the confidence of a beauty queen.

What pants are best for belly overhang? ›

Mid-rise and high-rise jeans help to cover your belly. These jeans are the most flattering shape if you have concerns about your tummy. Avoid wearing low-rise jeans. These don't cover your belly and tend to cause a “muffin-top”— bulges of skin—which may make you feel uncomfortable.

Why do I look fatter in pictures? ›

Most of the cameras do have lens distortion which will cause our figure or face to be fatter. The distortion will stretch and widen our faces, it seems like adding 10 pounds to us immediately.

Which fabric makes you look slim? ›

Fabrics like chiffon, georgette, silk, satin, and light-weight poly-cotton are perfect to choose as they will not cling to your body, and you can freely move.

What kind of dress makes you look slimmer? ›

Wear Dark Colors

This one is kind of a no-brainer but wearing dark colors will always make you look slimmer. I personally love to wear light colors so if you do too, don't shy away from them! But if you're most interested in looking slimmer, darker colors are the way to go.

What clothes make a chubby girl look slim? ›

Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.

What weight makes you plus-size? ›

What are plus-size model measurements? Plus-size models are usually a U.S. size 12 and up. Fashionuer reports that a plus-size model's weight should be between 161 and 205 pounds, with a chest size of 41 to 45 inches.

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