The curvy girl's guide to wearing white
In the unwritten rule book for plus-size women, there are more than a handful of guidelines by which women above a certain size are to abide by; accentuate your waist, don't show too much boob and whatever you do, don’t wear light colors. Well, we're here to rip up that rule book starting with the curvy girl's guide to wearing white.
Of course, those 'rules' are antiquated, a relic, a leftover when people felt they had the right to police women's bodies especially bodies that did not fit into socially accepted norms. Luckily, we have some excellent curvy girl role models, fearless women like model and entrepreneur Ashley Graham who have done away with the rule book and encourage others to do the same.
At the Council of Fashion Designers of America and Vogue Fashion Fund Awards, Graham opted for a white midi-length dress by Victor Glemaud. The next day, she wore a white two-piece crop top and pencil skirt from Australian brand Meshki.
When asked aout her bold colour choice, the popular plus-size model was defiant and said, “Why can’t a curvy girl wear white? I was always told I can’t. I’ve been told that a lot, and it’s in the rule book for curvy girls.”
Well, it seems that we are doing away with antiquated ideas of what curvy girl can and can't wear and as long as we follow some style rules, everyone can look and feel great in whatever they like.
If you're a curvy girl and you want to step put of your comfort zone by hopping on the white trend then here's your guide on how to nail the look.
3 Tips to Remember
Fit
When wearing white the fit will make or break your incredible ook. Of course you can opt for the white loose look and not have to worry about that. However, if you’re feeling up for the challenge and you like a more glamorous and show-stopping look, make sure whatever you wear fits like a glove. Also, to avoid any unsightly lumps and bumps, shapewear goes a long way when wearing white or any light colur. Make sure you invest in a solid pair.
Fabric
Even though the weather tends to be hot, try and pick a heavier fabric. Thin white fabrics will magnify problem areas (even when wearing shapewear). Cheap white fabric will show everything including your underwear and trust us, you don't want that.
Confidence
White is a colour where there’s no running and hiding. You have to make sure to add a good dose of confidence when pulling off the look. You have just as much right to wear white and slay like the next girl. Embrace it all!
How select and style your little white dress
Choose The Right Under Garments- A white dress can be a bit intimidating, especially as a plus size woman. The truth is that lighter colours do make things look bigger and can be less forgiving than dark colors. White is notorious for putting a magnifying glass on every crease and crevice on the body, but that doesn’t mean that curvy women have to skip out on the little white dress trend. If the idea of revealing these beautiful “flaws” makes you feel uncomfortable, simply slip on some shape wear underneath.
Pick The Right Silhouette for your shape– Since the white dress is a hot item right now, there are many options to pick from.
Hourglass Shape- Try a white dress that is cinched at the waist to show off your shape.
Rectangle (Banana) Shape- Give the illusion of defined waist by belting your dress, or picking a dress that is fitted at the waist. A dress with draping and ruching is also a great choice to create the illusion of a curvier figure.
Inverted Triangle- For broad shoulders, pick a dress that balances your shape such as an A-line dress.
Oval (Apple) Shape- If you have a larger midsection and smaller legs, opt for a dress the will balance you figure, such as swing dress. The dress I’m wearing is actually a swing dress from ASOS and I love how it fits my body!
Triangle (Pear) Shape- If your lower body is wider than the top of your body, pick a dress that helps to balance the two sides. A fit and flare dress is a good choice!
Layer Your Look- To give your look dimension, layer white with different textures and prints. In this hot weather, opt for a lighter option such as a military vest or fitted denim jacket.
Pop Some Colour- Don’t be afraid to add a colourful splash of colour to your outfit. You can add in colour with layering pieces, printed shoes, and even accessories such a bright coloured handbag.
Accessorise- Accessories are always the finishing touch to any outfit. Add a long necklace, a few bangles, or even a statement ring to your white dress to give it some personality.