Fear holds us back. It holds us back from saying what we feel and doing what we want. Fear even controls what we wear. Remember the last time you put on your favorite outfit and loved it? But then you had a nagging doubt…

“Can I really get away with this at my age? Am I just too big to make this work?”

If you let this type of fear take over, it will dictate your every fashion decision. Don’t let it! Here’s how to break away from the stereotypes so often imposed on mature plus size women.

Change Your Perspective on Plus Size Style

There’s a tide of change pushing aside the so-called ‘style rules’ that women used to let control their sense of style. Many plus size women have heard these before:

“Prints and stripes are risky. Stay with black, it’s safe and slimming. Bright colors are a no-no, go with darker shades.”

The same goes for ‘age appropriate’ clothing – it just winds up being restricting, restraining your ability to express yourself naturally with your outfits. These rules take away the fun of fashion.

Break the rules of what is typical, safe or appropriate for your age and size. Instead, dress appropriately for your personality, your style preferences and the occasion.

Break the Rules: Color and Print

Choose prints that enhance your body shape. For some women that means large, abstract patterns – such as tie dye and batik. These keep the eye moving and distract attention from problematic areas.

How many times have you been told you shouldn’t wear prints? Ignore that nonsense. Just make them work with your body. A neat pinstripe can add an air of elegance. And stripes, both horizontal and vertical, can create a super cute look.

Remember, too, that not all stripes are made the same. Thin, thick and shifted stripes on your outfit each create a unique, refreshing look. Try a wide diagonal striped top with an abstract pattern for an eye-catching effect that complements your figure.

As for color, don’t stick to all black and neutrals. Experiment with different colors and tones that work with your skin complexion and fit your personality. Remember – there are no rules!

Break the Rules: Fit

Body and age shaming comments tell you to hide away your curves and weight. They’re made out to be bad things you should be ashamed of. Terrible.

Shatter those rules by embracing your mature, curvy physique. For some women, this means wearing body contouring dresses that dramatically highlight their curves. If that’s not your preference, go with a more conservative look that still gives you a natural feminine shape.

The point is to not be forced into large, shapeless clothing. Here are some ways to embrace modern fits and not be controlled by body or age shaming:

• Try slim-cut jeans in a heavy denim with a little stretch. You’ll get a smooth, updated look that’s also super comfortable.
• A flowing skirt in a vibrant color with a cute blouse makes for a beautiful, casual outfit.
• Sleeveless dresses and open-shoulder tops are perfect as the weather gets warmer. Go with what makes you comfortable and confident.

Fearless, Fabulous Fashion

Get rid of the fashion fear factor! Embrace a mature, modern approach to style that throws out the rules of yesterday. Instead, discover your own rules of fashion. Take back control of your style.

Remember, your clothing is an outward expression of your inner self. Stand tall and let everyone know you have nothing to fear. Your attitude will triumph over any stranger’s petty glance of disapproval.

If you want to try some of our plus size clothes, we are offering a 10% discount for our Sixty and Me sisters in our Etsy Shop.

If you are plus size woman, how do you dress to feel confident? What are your favorite ways to wear clothes that express your true personality? Please share some tips you may have for the women in our community.