How to dress well when you are round?

Plus-size models, ambassadors of body positivity, are increasingly present on runways and on our screens. Model Ashley Graham, singer Lizzo, and Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan are all fashion icons who inspire women around the world.

But how can you embrace your curves, how can you enhance them, and which pieces to avoid? With all our advice, you'll know which pieces to avoid and which colors to favor while still enjoying yourself. The most important thing is to feel good in your clothes and to be confident in your fashion choices. So follow our guide to find out how to dress stylishly when you're curvy!

Know your body shape well to highlight your curves

To highlight your assets, whether you are slim, curvy, short or tall, it is essential to know your body type. Each body type has its own particularities, here is a summary. If you don't know yours yet, find our dedicated article just  here.

• The A-shaped morph,

Also known as the pyramid body shape, the A-shape body shape is characterized by hips that are wider than the shoulders and a narrow waist.

• The H-shaped morphology

The H-shaped body, also known as the rectangle body, is characterized by shoulders and hips that are the same width, with little or no defined waist.

• The V-shaped body

The V-shaped body shape, also known as the inverted pyramid shape, is characterized by shoulders that are wider than the hips and a slightly defined waist.

• The O-shaped morphology

The O-shape, also known as the curvy body shape, is characterized by a rounded, fuller figure with little definition at the waist.

• The X-shaped silhouette

The X-shaped body shape, also known as the hourglass body shape, is characterized by shoulders and hips that are the same width, with a well-defined waist.

The basics to always have in your wardrobe

• Flared jeans

To balance your silhouette and distribute your curves nicely, the flared jean cut is ideal. It will create a balance between your generous hips and your lower body, which is generally slimmer. Unlike slim jeans, which hug the entire leg, flared jeans are tightened at the thighs and widen from the knee. Remember to pay close attention to the back pockets, which should be neither too small nor too high, as they will accentuate your curves at the buttocks.

When it comes to color, anything goes! Raw, black, and color—depending on your preferences, you can indulge in a little fantasy. However, dark colors like black or raw are the ones that slim and lengthen the silhouette.

• Straight carrot pants

Both feminine and elegant, this cut is ideal for highlighting your hips and revealing your ankles. Make sure to choose it perfectly cut so that it stops just above the ankles and thus creates verticality. We forget the side pockets that will add volume to your hips, instead opt for Italian pockets which are more discreet. There are many models, with an elasticated waist or with a simple belt, see which type you prefer.

When choosing it, avoid shiny materials such as silver and gold, which will unsightly accentuate your curves, and instead opt for matte materials. This year, colors are in fashion, so it's the opportunity to allow yourself a little fantasy. Pink, green, royal blue, lilac, you will have the opportunity to have fun. If you prefer classics, black will be timeless, just like navy and brick. However, we advise you not to choose it in white because this color tends to increase volume and be transparent.

• A fitted blazer

To create a feminine and refined silhouette, there's nothing like a beautiful fitted blazer. It's THE perfect piece to finish off an outfit because it can be worn in winter, spring, and fall. But to avoid thickening your silhouette, we recommend not choosing it with overly prominent details. For example, avoid overly large and elaborate gold buttons that will unnecessarily weigh down your blazer. The same goes for pockets; avoid them being too big and forget about shoulder pads.

In practice, the blazer comes in many materials and colors. Linen, cotton, light or dark colors, you can wear anything you like. However, if you want it to have a slimming effect, opt for dark colors such as navy or black, which have the advantage of going with everything. As for the length, the best thing to do is to try it on and see which one suits you best. We recommend choosing it neither too short nor too long, but if you want to balance your silhouette, make sure it falls just below the hips.

• A mid-length skater dress

The skater skirt is a wardrobe staple. Its flared cut and high waist define the waist and highlight the hips, while hiding any bumps. Opt for a mid-length version that hits just above the knees for a feminine and elegant look. Be careful, however, not to choose one that's too short, as this could unbalance your silhouette.

When it comes to materials, choose lightweight, flowing fabrics that will beautifully follow the skirt's movements. Avoid materials that are too thick or stiff, which will add volume to the hips. As for colors, you can go wild: from classic black to bright colors, including floral or geometric patterns.

Materials and colors that flatter curves

The ideal materials

Choose lightweight, flowing fabrics with a touch of elastane to feel free and comfortable. Linen and cotton, which are fluid and breathable, are ideal for all seasons. However, avoid silk or satin fabrics, which tend to highlight every little imperfection.

The colors to prefer

When it comes to color, every woman has her own unique color profile. To wear colors well and find out which ones suit you best, check out our dedicated article right here.

When it comes to patterns, opt for medium-sized prints over prints that are too small or too large, which will tend to go unnoticed or accentuate your curves. Medium-sized prints and wax prints are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and color. Polka dots for a glamorous look, floral patterns to add a touch of romance, or stripes, if they're vertical, are all patterns that will highlight your beautiful curves.

Fashion mistakes to avoid when you have curves

If you are one of those women who have beautiful curves and you like to show them off, here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Wearing clothes that are too tight

Every woman is free to wear what she wants and what she feels good in. If you like to show off and for you sexy necessarily rhymes with tight, think again! Contrary to what one might think, rather than showing off your best features, wearing clothes that are too tight could actually highlight small imperfections. A fabric that is too tight could create unsightly folds and have a "too much" effect that would be detrimental to you. Remember to choose the right size of your clothes to feel comfortable and show off your figure as it should be.

Very close-fitting clothing can be particularly flattering for curvy women if used sparingly. To avoid looking vulgar, it's best to wear a wrap skirt in a stretchy material, for example, which will be both comfortable and sexy, with a more flowing top to balance out the silhouette. This advice applies to all body types, whether you're more or less curvy, petite or tall.

• Wearing clothes that are too loose

Unlike the situation mentioned above, some women have trouble embracing their curves and tend to hide behind overly baggy clothes. These types of overly baggy pieces can have the opposite effect, i.e., thicken the silhouette. If you fall into this category of women, don't panic, there are many solutions to avoid gaining weight without accentuating your silhouette. Don't hesitate to structure your outfit either. Pieces made of soft, unstructured fabrics will also give the impression of wanting to blend in with your clothes. There are fairly rigid cotton shirts that are neither too loose nor too tight, a must for curvy women.

It's best to use loose-fitting clothing in small increments. For example, if you want to hide your hips, rather than wearing ultra-wide jeans, opt for a bootcut paired with a long kimono-style jacket. This way, you can keep your pieces loose, but in small increments, so you don't look overwhelmed by your clothes. To discover our selection of kimonos, click here.

• Wear horizontal stripes

Horizontal stripes (left to right), while very pretty, are known to thicken the silhouette and are therefore not recommended if you have a lot of curves. Instead, opt for vertical stripes (from top to bottom) which lengthen the silhouette. But if you want to wear a sailor shirt, don't panic, you just have to choose it well! Favor fine stripes on flowing materials and on a light background. The classic blue and white cotton will do the trick perfectly. However, be careful with the choice of collar to avoid appearing cramped and prefer V-necks to boat necks, for example.

Don't neglect the choice of shoes and accessories when you are round

Shoes and accessories are essential to finishing off an outfit. When chosen well, accessories can transform a simple outfit into an evening or work outfit, and should not be overlooked.

• High heels

Showcasing yourself with heels is the best way to lengthen your silhouette and give your legs a shape. Whether stiletto or wedge, heels are perfect if you have an O-shaped figure. And if you're not comfortable in such shoes, start by wearing small wedge heels and increase the heel size gradually. As for the shape, pointed toes are perfect for elongating the foot and creating an impression of length. There are hundreds of models, so you'll find the shoe that fits your feet ;)

• The ankle boots

Combining comfort and style, ankle boots are a must-have for fall and winter. To ensure they fit your figure perfectly, be sure to choose them slightly above the ankle, otherwise they may cut your leg short and appear short. Block-heeled ankle boots are also an excellent choice, as they provide good support and balance your silhouette perfectly. Suede or smooth leather ankle boots with a side zipper or decorative buckle also add a touch of style to your outfit.

• The sandals

Sandals are a must-have in your summer wardrobe. Wedge heels are a great choice for curvy women because they elongate the silhouette and give a slimmer look to the legs. For a more casual look, opt for flat sandals with crisscross ankle straps. Just be sure to choose sandals with adjustable straps for a perfect fit.

• Lace-up shoes

If you're looking for an alternative to heels, lace-up shoes are a great option for curvy women. Models with low, chunky heels provide excellent support for the feet while giving the appearance of length. Lace-up shoes with details like perforations or studs are also a great option to add a touch of style to your outfit.

• The jewelry

Jewelry can be used to draw attention to your upper body and away from your hips or thighs. Long necklaces are a great choice for curvy women because they create a vertical line that elongates the silhouette. Long, elegant earrings are also a great choice to draw attention to your face.

• The belts

Belts are perfect for curvy women because they can be used to accentuate your waist or create the illusion of a slimmer waist. Wide belts can be worn over a dress or tunic to create an hourglass figure. Thin belts, on the other hand, are ideal worn over a top or shirt to add a touch of elegance to your outfit.

To learn all about the accessories to wear when you have an O-shaped body shape and beautiful curves, don't hesitate to consult our article on the accessories to wear according to your body shape right here.

In conclusion, dressing when you're curvy can seem like a challenge, but it's primarily a matter of knowing yourself and choosing clothes that suit your body shape. It's important to feel comfortable in your clothes and choose them based on your own style and personality, rather than following trends to the letter.

Don't be afraid to experiment and step out of your comfort zone to find what suits you best. But above all, it's essential to remember that every woman is unique and there's no standard to follow. It's important to focus on how you feel in your clothes rather than what others may think. By embracing your own beauty and trusting yourself, any woman, whether curvy or not, can be elegant and confident in her clothing choices.