Winter season is fast approaching and most of us want to curl up into our beds, to stay warm and cosy. Layering up can easily have you mismatching fashion trends and even worse, hide your beautiful curves. For a long time, plus-size women have suffered the short end of the stick when it comes to finding trendy outfits that highlight their curves. Embracing inclusivity in fashion is crucial, and creating an all-inclusive winter wardrobe is not only practical but also empowering. This article explores the must-haves for an all-inclusive wardrobe, to ensure that you stay warm and accentuate your curves during the winter season.
1. Winter Coat
A versatile winter coat can go a long mile in your wardrobe, especially with neutral colours like black, camel or navy that will still have you looking trendy regardless of the outfit. Choose a well-fitted winter coat that flatters your body. A-line or fit-and-flare silhouettes that snatch the waist and flare out complement and enhance your beautiful curves. Coats with an adjustable belt accentuate your figure and add on to the snatched waist look. For a more polished look, go for sleeves that reach the wrists and that are knee-length or even longer to elongate your body and give you extra warmth. Moreover, consider finding coats made from lightweight insulating materials like wool or down alternatives to allow you to layer up without feeling bulky and suffocated from all the layers.
2. Boots
Remember the days when you would look at knee-high boots and admire them from afar because your heart was broken one too many times trying to find one that could zip to the very top without breaking a sweat? Well, gone are the days. All-inclusive fashion is here with a bang giving you a variety of wide calf boots. These are shoes that not only give extra warmth but also embrace versatile styles that compliment leggings, jeans or even dresses, especially in classic shades like black or brown that have remained timeless. Not only are they stylish but functional too. Boots are an investment that will have you reaping its benefits even passed the winter season. Whether knee-high or ankle boots, it will still have you looking classy with a mix-and-match outfit in the spring and autumn season.
3. Sweaters
Sweaters are the staples for winter that offer warmth and style. Choosing neutral colours makes it easier to mix and match styles while still looking elegant. What is exciting about sweaters is the different textures and sizes that they come in giving warmth and different styles at the same time. Sweaters with a V-neck or scoop neckline create a lengthening effect that flatters plus-size women. When layering, pair sweaters with structured outerwear like blazers or tailored coats to balance the relaxed fit of the sweater and add sophistication to your overall look. Long sweaters that reach slightly above the knee also pair well with knee-high boots.
4. Comfy Bottoms
Plus-size women have stood the test of time in this department to find a balance between comfort and style. Comfortable bottoms are essential for winter wear. You can have gorgeous bottoms and think that they fit perfectly until you eat. Oh! High waist bottoms can have your popping buttons. Elastic waistbands come in handy to add extra support and to comfortably accommodate fluctuations in body size. We need to eat in peace and still look great. Plus-size women can prioritise both comfort and style by choosing bottoms made from stretchy fabrics like cotton blends with elastane or spandex, ensuring flexibility and ease of movement. The elasticity also gives allowance to add layers underneath like stockings if you need extra warmth without compromising on comfort. Wide-leg trousers and palazzo pants are excellent choices, offering relaxed fits and balancing proportions for a comfortable yet chic appearance.
5. Bring in the layers
The inevitable process of layering up to stay warm in the winter to adjust to the changes in temperature can be done in a classy way without looking bulky. Basic layering pieces like long-sleeve t-shirts, turtlenecks, and thermal tops are versatile and come in various sizes, suitable for wearing underneath sweaters, cardigans, or blazers for adding that extra layer of warmth and style. Well-fitted thermal vests work perfectly in retaining body heat and can be worn underneath a lot of items without restricting movement and avoiding unnecessary bulk to the layers.
6. Warm Accessories
You can accessorise your outfits for extra warmth with scarves, gloves and hats made from soft materials like wool or cashmere. These accessories are where you get to experiment with colours and prints to break the monotony of neutral colours. Colourful scarves can also draw attention to your face. Layered leggings also come in handy especially thermal or fleece-lined ones that offer extra warmth without bulk. Leggings pair well with long sweaters or dresses. When layering, consider proportions, avoiding overly bulky pieces and ensuring items fit well together. Balancing loose items with tailored pieces to have an all-rounded polished look.
7. Lingerie
Yes, lingerie! Fashion is not just about what you see on the outside, confidence starts from within. Plus size lingerie is the comfort and confidence curvaceous women have been waiting for. It’s very easy to forget about what you were on the inside due to the layers on layers but not this winter. This winter will be self-love. From lace-trimmed bras to high-waist knickers that make you look in the mirror and say “damn I look good”. That’s the kind of confidence we are currying with us this winter. With the right foundation, you will exude radiance in any winter outfit that you choose to flaunt.
Conclusion:
As the winter chills descend, plus-size women can still step out with confidence, knowing that the fashion industry is increasingly embracing inclusivity. Staying fashionable in winter can be challenging, but the key is to wear outfits that provide both confidence and warmth. The emphasis is on functional yet stylish wardrobes that encourages plus-size women to fearlessly experiment with fashion to curate a winter wardrobe that not only keeps you warm but also reflects your individuality and elegance. Remember, fashion is a form of self-expression, and every plus-size woman deserves to feel beautiful, confident, and celebrated in her winter attire. So, go ahead, and wear your winter outfits with pride, embracing your curves and celebrating your unique beauty.
All images from exclusive DSCENE womenswear story captured by fashion photographer Cathy Du, in charge of the styling was Santanae Luzige – discover the full photo session.
