Cup of Snarky

If you’re like me, then shopping for that perfect outfit can be a nightmare. No matter what your size, you’ve likely had that “oh wow that looks awful” moment. Trying on clothes in those tiny, hot and horribly lit dressing rooms is supposed to be fun isn’t it? Then why is the music always blaring and the sales people always rude?

When you are wearing a size 22, however, you’re faced with even more roadblocks. It’s hard to find that cute or sexy outfit you saw the super model wearing on the runway last night. The designers today don’t seem to know how to cater to plus size beauties or maybe they just don’t want to try. We have begun to see a bit more excitement over “plus size” models but, of course, somehow it’s just not the same.

The problem for me and many others is that we just don’t know where or what to look for. We’re not sure of what is flattering on our figures. We are tempted to try new looks but even if we do know what the latest fashion trends are, where do we find our size?

Here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. When shopping, the first thing we must do is be confident. Don’t be embarrassed because you wear an 18 or 24 instead of an 8. We are all beautiful and we all come in different shapes and sizes. Be proud of what you have and rock it with confidence.

2. Don’t always assume that the shapeless dress or long shirt is going to work. Sometimes that shapeless piece hides the good features as well. Try to find something that draws attention to your favorite features and curves.

3. Find colors that compliment your features, such as your hair and skin tone. Anyone can browse online to find what shape they are and what colors are right for them. It just takes a little time and research to discover what you love most about yourself and then find colors that really make those areas stand out.

4. Be bold with colors and accessories. Show your personality. Accessories are one of the easiest things to buy as a plus size woman since it’s more of a one-size-fits all world when it comes to accenting our outfits with accessories.

5. Take a friend with you. Shopping alone is never fun. That special friend can be honest and tell you what looks good and what doesn’t instead of the skinny girl working the counter.

Some of the trends I’ve come across this year are, long summer dresses, long sleeve cardigans and elbow length sweaters in bold colors, long shirts and skinny jeans. Yes ladies, we to can wear skinny jeans if matched with a long shirt or sweater. The idea is to keep the shirt or sweater not too short and not too tight. No matter what the trend may be or what it may become, we can look our best. We can have fun with the clothes we choose to wear. Everyone has their own style and just because we might be bigger than the girl next door doesn’t mean we have to wear the clothes grandmother wore. Whatever your style, wear it with confidence and you will always be following the latest trend.

Olivia Williams is a health, fitness and beauty blogger who believes that self-confidence is the number one way to rock any outfit. Whether it’s letting your inner beauty shine naturally or allowing you to feel better about aging with occasional Botox injections, Olivia believes there is no right or wrong way to do beauty.