Dangerous curves

Waikato Times

Euphoria ray of light dress, $330, and underneath, a Euphoria orbit cami, $145, from Azzurra Fashions, Victoria St, Hamilton. Skinny stretch denim jean (available in sizes up to 20), $69.99 from Jeans West, Centre Place, Hamilton. Heartwings necklace, $105, and cuff, $40, from The Carpenters Daughter, Grey St, Hamilton East. Shoes, model???s own.

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For years, women above size 14 have had to make do with unflattering, baggy clothes, but now fashion designers are getting the message, and catering to plus-sized women. Kate Monahan explores local stores for some big, bold and beautiful fashions.

The average New Zealand woman is now a size 14 to 16, but you wouldn't know it from shopping at most designer stores. Many couture labels only go up to size 14, and the average women is left searching at the back of the racks for something they might fit.

However, in the past five years, the options for so-called "plus sized" women have expanded.

Mainstream stores are stocking sizes up to 18 or 20. And some designers, such as Morrinsville's Annah Stretton, have a separate label catering to bigger babes. Stretton's Garb range, stocked in her flagship stores, goes from size 14 to 24. Another New Zealand label with a plus-size line is High Society's Chocolat range, from size 10 to 22.

Around town, there are also plenty of options. Hamilton East is the first port of call for many, with The Carpenters Daughter and Precious Vessels on either side of Grey St. Both stock trendy and stylish fashions, and have a friendly and knowledgeable approach. Azzurra in Hamilton city is another must-visit for those over size 14, and stocks a range of mostly New Zealand labels. Other stores include K & K Fashions in Chartwell, Kerklaan on River Rd and mail order/website company Long Island, which caters from size 10 to 30.

To find a look that flatters your shape, whatever your size, talk to store assistants. There is no one-size-fits-all, even with plus size clothing. You could be an hour-glass shape (big boobs, big hips and small waist) or you could be more of a pear (small boobs, heavy thighs) or a more rounded apple shape (big tum, average everything else), or another variation. You'll need to try on different styles to find something that best flatters your assets. 

EMBRACING CURVES

For a special occasion, such as a ball or wedding, flatter your body with a well-structured dress or top/skirt combination. Don't be afraid to wear fitting gowns just because you are over size 14. Boned or structured corset-style tops can be flattering, or go for lovely ruched tops that support and enhance the bust. If you have curves, don't hide them beneath a paper bag; flaunt them in well-made outfits. The black skirt is also flattering, with a long slimming line and feminine ruffles at the back.

VIBRANT COLOUR

Just because you are bigger, doesn't mean you have to wear all black. Sure, darker colours are slimming, but injecting flattering colour and personality into your outfit is also important. Wrap tops and cardigans are a great addition to a curvy girl's wardrobe, and this one from The Carpenters Daughter is versatile, as it can be wrapped or tied in several different ways. A good camisole or two, which covers the hips and belly, is also a must-have investment, and is a good underlayer for cardis and tops.

GOLDEN CHILD

One of the hot colours of summer is bright yellow, along with lots of other cheerful shades, from grass green to magenta to purple. Wear colour with neutrals such as grey, black and white.

THE SKINNY

Who says curvy women can't wear skinny or slim cut jeans? Wearing graduated layers and longer tops means skinny jeans and leggings are flattering at any size. The secret is in covering problem areas such as tummy and upper thighs, and showing off sexy calves. Focus on your assets, whether slim legs, a pretty shoulder-line or bust, and draw attention to your favourite body parts with what you wear.Try to lengthen the body with long tunic tops and long necklaces, creating pleasing vertical lines to detract from width.

I'M BIASED

Another smart way to detract from wide hips and bums is to layer, with pieces cut on a bias. Diagonal lines on this apron top and layers of camisoles create a variety of angles for the eye to follow, and are much more slimming than a top cut straight across. You might want to follow The Carpenters Daughter's rule of three; layering at least three pieces of different lengths and angles, to create an overall more flattering look. With jewellery, keep it big and bold and long. Finicky little necklaces and delicate earrings get lost on bigger women.

LONG AND LOVELY

Long cardigans and loose linen jackets are great for plus-sized women, and can dress up a simple top and jeans. They also disguise bums and tums, if you are having a fat day. Bigger girls can also find jeans to fit if they look around. Many mainstream stores stock up to size 20, and stores such as Precious Vessels have special jean labels that go even bigger. A wide legged pant with smart summer sandals is a stylish but casual look.

PRETTY PATTERNS

The latest trend in floral patterns, animal prints and dots is perfect for plus-size fashionistas. Patterns help detract from problem areas, and create an overall slimming look, if done right, as one all-over pattern. Don't wear two contrasting patterns together, to avoid a confusing mis-match of looks. Also, avoid low cut tops and go for higher v-necks or cowl neck tops, which flatter bust lines. You want to flaunt it, but not let it all hang out. An empire cut dress, or a bow detail under the bust line, as with this dress, is a good look as it draws attention away from the hips and stomach. Dresses should flow smoothly down, and flare out at the knee or just below the knee, showing off your lovely calves and slim ankles.

- © Fairfax NZ News