Q I'm what is politely referred to as a full-figured woman. Which is my better choice: clothing that is too tight or too loose?
A Neither. Both will make you look larger than you really are. If you find something you simply can't resist, but one size is too small and the other is too big, buy the larger size and have it altered to fit. Baggy is a style-buster.
Here are style pointers for full-figured women:
Avoid fussy details at the neckline, including ruffles, bows and billowy scarves.
Drapey fabrics are more flattering than stiff, bulky materials. Combine drapey fabrics with asymmetrical styling, and you've hit on a win-win formula.
Flat-front trousers are slimming. Pleated pants add inches to tummy and hips. For the same reason, choose pants and skirts with a tailored waist, not an elasticized one.
Hide heavy legs with wide, straight-leg trousers, but make sure the trousers aren't too long, or they'll make your legs look even wider.
Choose dress and jacket styles that follow your curves -- but not too closely!
