Source: pearlslaceandruffles
You may feel slightly self-conscious as a curvier girl in summer. The warm weather encourages bare skin, breezy clothing and short shorts, but limits in appropriately sized summer threads can often make this pursuit difficult, especially if there’s a lack of confidence involved as well.
Being confident enough as a larger woman to wear summer clothing is liberating, especially when you realise there’s actually nothing holding you back from dressing the way you want for the warmer weather. The rules for larger women are bogus, which is why I’m throwing them out the window and encouraging every curvy woman, like myself, to break the rules this summer and wear something more risky.
Shorts
I’ve heard it a million times before; big girls can’t wear shorts. It doesn’t matter what size you are, there’s always going to be a good pair of denim shorts out there with your name on. Shorts are a comfy and easy addition to any wardrobe, so should always be included as a basic item regardless of size.
Avoid anything too tight as it could be uncomfortable, and that’s the last thing you want on a hot summer’s day. Look for a pair with side zips to ensure you can get them on and take them off easily, as well as side slits so your things aren’t constricted too much. Zips also have a slimming effect, and will compliment layers to balance your entire outfit.
Dresses
Summer dresses for curvy girls are perfect for enjoying the warmer weather without showing off too much skin. Buying clothes which actually suit a larger frame is much more flattering than simply buying clothes in larger sizes, so if you’ve previously been paralysed by unflattering outfits, do some research and find retailers who cater to larger women.
Remember it’s the summer, so what better time to introduce some colour into your wardrobe? Every colour looks great on curvy women, but for summer, nothing beats an elegant white to keep you cool, as well as the addition of light, pastel colours to add a hint of vibrancy to your look.
Swimwear
Whether it’s a dip in the sea or relaxing by the pool, stripping down to your skivvies is effective for cooling down, but also great for showing off more skin than usual and building some confidence on the back of it. To get that sultry summer-swimmer look, you’ll need appropriate swimwear designed for larger ladies. Anything else will most likely be very uncomfortable and revealing.
Out of everything in a plus size wardrobe, finding appropriate swimwear is probably the hardest. Whether you’re looking for a one-piece or bikini, specialist retailers should have something suitable. It may also help to widen your search net and include retailers who traditionally don’t sell plus size clothing; I found, surprisingly, their selection of swimwear in larger sizes is actually better than their other lines combined.
Accessories
Once you’ve put together an awesome, seasonally appropriate outfit, accessorising is essential. Starting top to bottom, a pair of sunglasses is a must-have. I’m personally a fan of bigger shades which cover half your face, but everyone has different preferences. Pick a style you like and avoid any recommendations on which frame suits which face shape. Buy a pair based on what you like!
Next there’s jewellery such as necklaces, earrings, and rings. A bit of bling is perfect for the summer sun; the lights bouncing off your trinkets will make it seem like you’re glowing. As for a bag, something small is always best, as you don’t want to be lugging around anything too big on a hot day.
Finally, you need to settle on a pair of shoes. You could choose to go comfy and wear a pair of trainers. These are perfect for strolling comfortably through town on summers day. Sandals are also very popular, as they let your skin meet the sun and can also be worn with a nice dress for a sophisticated, yet summery look.
