The Ultimate Plus Size Fit Guide

Those in the market for plus size clothing are often faced with few choices. Customers typically find themselves settling for baggy, drab clothing that is not flattering or fashionable. Yet, as more plus size celebrities and models have entered the scene in recent years, the fashion industry has taken note. Today, there is a large increase in the demand for high quality, fashion-forward plus size clothing. With an array of options to choose from on the market today, it is important for shoppers to understand the differences in sizing. Plus size clothing is sized differently from straight size clothing. Whereas straight clothing styles typically range from zero to 14, most plus size items run from size 14 to size 24 or 26. When determining the proper fit for plus size clothing, it is important to consider how the garments are designed. Shoppers should know their body types, as well as how each garment should fit in order to attain the best look possible for any body size.

Design and Fit of Plus Size Clothing
It is important to note that plus size clothing differs from the larger sizes of straight size garments. Plus size does not merely indicate a larger size. An individual categorized within the plus size market does not have the same proportions as those who might simply wear a larger size of straight size clothing. Straight size clothing is designed based on a person's bust-waist-hip ratio. Plus size clothing cannot be based as easily around proportions, because as people move up in size they can become considerably bigger in certain areas. As a result, many designers style their plus size clothing lines differently than they would design straight size garments. Plus size garments are commonly looser in design, and if the style tends to be more form fitting, many garments will still leave more room in the bust area for a larger chest. More often than not, if plus size clothing is carried in a store that sells straight size clothing, the styles are divided into two separate departments for ease of shopping. It is also common for clothing stores to focus solely on either straight size or plus size garments as well.

Size Variations
In the fashion world, there are no standard sizes set across the board for every designer to follow. Instead, different designers and brands determine their own sizing guidelines, which can result in an individual fitting in a variety of sizes depending on the brand or designer. This is important when shopping for plus size clothing, as a person could be a size 14 in one store and a size 16 in another depending on how the garments are cut. There are also different variations in how clothing sizes are labeled as well. "XL" is used for plus size clothing, as well as "0X," "1X," "2X," etc. Again, these types of labels can vary from store to store. Whereas an "XL" might fit an individual like a size 18 in one shop, the same "XL" may feel more like a size 22 in another shop.

Understanding One's Body Type
When it comes to being plus size, there cannot be a one-size-fits-all mentality. Every individual has a unique shape and will fit in clothes differently than the next person. Overall, there are five body types to consider, including hourglass, pear, apple, petite, and rectangular.

Hourglass Shape
An hourglass figure is usually the one most preferred by plus size women, as the curves are very proportionate to one another. The bust and hips tend to be about ten inches larger than the waist, giving a woman a very feminine look. Wearing clothes that put emphasis on the waistline is a great option, as this is the most narrow part of a person's figure.

Pear Shape
Being pear shaped means a person is heavier on the bottom half of their body. The neck and shoulders are on the slim side, while the bust and waist are a medium size. Most of the weight is held in the thighs, backside, and calves. The best fit for a pear shaped body is one that emphasizes the upper half of the body and takes attention away from the lower half. Empire and A-line waistbands are a great option as these hit just below the bust line, causing the material to flare out above the stomach, rear, and leg regions.

Apple Shape
Apple shaped individuals are commonly round from top to bottom. The neck and shoulders are usually broad and the waistline is undefined. The stomach tends to be wider than both the upper and lower body. With this body type, shoppers should consider clothing made out of materials that won't cling too closely to the body, like cotton or silk. Darker colors and simple designs are the best way to go, whereas bright colors and patterns may draw unwanted attention to certain parts of the body.

Petite Shape
Shopping can be especially challenging for people who are plus size and on the petite side, which is usually considered under five feet four inches tall. Shoppers of a shorter stature should stick to simple, less flashy clothing that does not overwhelm their figures. Horizontal stripes should also be avoided, which can make shorter individuals appear wider than they actually are.

Rectangular Shape
A rectangular body type has very few curves to one's shape, if any curves at all. People with this body type should try to dress in clothes that create curves, such as an A-line dress that will flare out over the hips and legs to create an illusion of a curvier figure. People that are more rectangularly shaped tend to have thinner arms and legs, so these areas should be emphasized as well when choosing clothing.


Finding Plus Size Garments that Fit Properly
Because plus size clothing fits differently than straight size garments, it is important to make sure each item fits well in order to make the body appear smaller and more proportioned. Both men and women should take certain measurements to ensure their clothing fits properly.

Plus Size Shirts for Men
In order to obtain the perfect fit in a plus size shirt, men should take their measurements to ensure they are trying on the right size garment. Start by measuring the neck and collar area, as well as the chest. To determine the size of the neck and collar, measure the thickest part of the neck while standing with the head straight up. Allow room for two fingers to slip beneath the measuring tape, which will portray an accurate measurement for dress shirts with a collar. Moving down to the chest area, wrap the measuring tape under the armpits in a straight line around the largest and widest part of the chest. The arms should be relaxed down at the side to ensure an accurate number. If the measurement has fallen in between two whole numbers, it is best to round up in order to ensure a shirt will fit comfortably.

Plus Size Shirts for Women
Taking proper measurements is also important for women, as many stores will be able to help a woman match up her specific measurements to a specific size. As sizes will commonly vary depending on the clothing brand, knowing one's measurement is an important tool in finding the perfect fit from one store to another.

There are many shirts that will flatter a plus size woman's body. Peasant tops are a great look for a casual outing, as these offer a loose, free flowing fit that does not cling to the body. For a more professional look, wrap blouses are a great option for plus size women as well. One side of the shirt wraps over the other, creating a V-shape to the front of the shirt. This style does great things for a woman's body. It will open up the neckline to make a person appear longer and taller, while breaking up the chest and stomach area into different sections to make each part appear smaller than it actually is.