Curvy women rejoice

With warm weather approaching, stores are filling up with eye-popping colors for spring. For the fuller figured woman, however, it’s not always that colorful. As a matter of fact the insipid displays in our area chain retail stores are enough to make you stop shopping. I did say “almost,” didn’t I?

Being one of the full figured ladies out there I know how difficult it can be when you want to dress fashionably and the clothing isn’t there. As a boutique owner, I see what’s available from the designers and manufacturers. It’s a struggle to find the right styles in the right colors.

So let’s embrace the parts of our figure that makes us feel great. We all have a sense of what size we wear (even though it changes by brand and designer — remember, size is only a number) and what looks most pleasing on, but do we really know how to wear it? If you’re like most women, the answer is probably no.

Understanding our body shape and size is key when shopping for more fashionable clothing. We need to accentuate our best parts with what is out there. I grew up knowing only two body types, the apple and the pear. Well, I’m here to tell you there is a lot more to this idea than I once thought.

One area of the body that creates a substantial amount of havoc is often referred to as “the girls.” I cannot stress enough how important it is to have the right foundation garments. The properly fitted bra will not only lift the breast up revealing what is a waist, but it will also alleviate back pain caused by poor posture. When you find a waist, quickly try on a short waist jacket or a dress with a waist and even add a belt. Show off the figure you have and feel beautiful doing it!

Now, if you happen to carry a little bit extra behind you, aka, junk in the trunk, like I do, don’t despair. Find yourself a nicely fit high waist undergarment and go shopping. This will smooth things out and give you a great shape. There are many brands and styles to choose from.

Now that you’re smooth and ready to go, when looking for clothing, I like a short jacket with a high waist pant, or a boot cut pant with a longer jacket. Oh yes, don’t forget a belt and some colorful stacked heels.

No matter what shape you are, accessorize! This is where you turn your closet from shades of grey to an explosion of color. Pick up a bright Tangerine purse and tie a colorful scarf on it. Enjoy a manicure and pedicure done in the same tangerine color, or try an aquamarine or blue polish.

Pair up those toes with a hot pink pair of sandals. I don’t know if you’re like me, but I absolutely love shoes. I’m sure you know why, because they don’t change size like the rest of me does. There are so many styles, colors, and designers to choose from. This is one area where designers haven’t forgotten us.

Fuller figure women look most attractive in shoes that don’t have skinny, spiked heels like wedges, platforms and thicker heels. These will give us a more proportional look. Another trick is wearing nude (close to the color of your skin) shoes. These will make your legs look longer and thinner.

While you’re out, look for those sandals find a bright colored floral top to tie the outfit together. Now add a pair of your favorite jeans and a black jacket and there you have it, a fashionable, fun, flattering outfit.

I hope this has helped all of you full figured women. Should you need any additional support just stop in at Bieg Boutique in downtown Waukesha and I will be delighted to be of assistance. If you mention this article, 15 percent off your purchase is another reason to get out and look your best this spring season.