How to Dress for a Big Bust and Tummy? Tips for Plus Size!

Dressing up should be fun, not frustrating. But if you’re like me, with a generous bust and a cuddly tummy, finding clothes that fit and flatter can sometimes feel like a challenge. Trust me; I’ve been there. Through trial and error (and quite a few fashion mishaps), I’ve learned a thing or two about dressing a body like ours. It’s all about celebrating your curves, not hiding them!

In this blog post, I’m excited to share some tips and tricks that have made getting dressed a joy again. Whether choosing the right fabrics, understanding silhouettes, or knowing which patterns work best, I’ve got you covered. 

Also Read: How To Hide Cellulite In Leggings?

Understanding Your Body Shape

First, it’s important to understand and embrace your body shape. Every woman, regardless of size, has unique curves and proportions that make her beautiful. Instead of trying to fit into a specific mold or following strict fashion rules, focus on finding clothing styles that complement your natural silhouette.

To determine if you have a big bust and tummy, look at your upper body in relation to your lower body. You likely have an apple or oval-shaped figure if you have a full bust and tummy with narrower hips. On the other hand, if your bust and tummy are more proportionate but still fuller than your hips and thighs, you may have a pear or hourglass shape.

Dressing Tips for Women with Big Busts

As I said, dressing well is about celebrating your body, not hiding it. So don’t be afraid to show off your curves! In the section below, I will share some key tips for dressing a big bust so you can showcase your assets in the most flattering way possible.

1- Flattering Necklines for Big Busts

Choosing the right neckline can significantly impact how your bust looks in clothes. For those with a larger bust, V-neck and scoop neck tops are incredibly flattering, as they elongate your neck and draw attention upwards, creating a balanced look.

Avoid high necklines like turtlenecks, making your chest appear larger and more overwhelming. Instead, opt for necklines that provide a bit of space around the neck and chest area to showcase your curves in a sophisticated manner.

 2- Wrap Tops to Flatter a Big Bust

Wrap tops are a godsend for those with a fuller bust because they offer adjustable coverage and create a beautiful silhouette by cinching at the waist. The crossed fabric draws the eye across the body rather than focusing it all in one area, making them ideal for casual and formal occasions.

Look for wrap dresses and tops made from fabrics that drape nicely, avoiding anything too clingy or stiff. This style emphasizes your waist and offers support and comfort, allowing you to adjust the tightness to suit your body’s needs.

3- Highlight Your Waist

Highlighting your waist is a powerful way to create a flattering figure and add structure to your look. For those with a big bust and tummy, belted dresses and tops or high-waisted skirts and pants can help create an hourglass silhouette by emphasizing the smallest part of your waist.

Look for pieces with built-in waist definition, or add a belt to looser garments to achieve this effect. Remember, the goal is to accentuate your curves, not squeeze them, to ensure that belts or waistbands are snug but comfortable.

4- A-Line Dresses

A-line dresses are a fantastic option for women with a big bust and tummy. Their fitted top section helps to showcase the bust area positively, while the gradual flare from the waist down offers a forgiving fit around the belly, skimming over it elegantly.

This silhouette works wonders in balancing your proportions, giving you that sought-after hourglass shape. Opt for A-line dresses that hit at or just below the knee to elongate your figure. Additionally, choosing styles with a structured top can provide extra support for your bust, making this an ideal combination of style and comfort.

5- Fabrics and Textures

Choosing fabric and texture is crucial when dressing a big bust and tummy, as it can significantly affect the garment’s overall look and feel. You should opt for soft materials with a good drape, such as jersey, silk, or fine knitwear, which can flow over curves without clinging too tightly.

These fabrics will move with you, offering comfort and a flattering fit. Avoid overly bulky or stiff fabrics that add unnecessary volume to your silhouette. Instead, look for clothes that are structured enough to provide support but flexible enough to highlight your best features.

Additionally, consider the pattern and color of your garments. Vertical stripes, dark colors, and small, uniform patterns can elongate and slim the figure, while large, bold patterns may have the opposite effect. However, feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. After all, fashion is about expressing yourself and feeling confident in your skin.

6- Straight-Leg Or Wide-Leg Pants

Choosing the right type of pants is key for those with a big bust and fuller tummy. Straight-leg or wide-leg pants can be particularly flattering as they help balance your overall silhouette. These styles create a streamlined look from the waist down, avoiding emphasizing any one area and instead highlighting your natural curves evenly.

When selecting pants, make sure they sit comfortably at your natural waistline or just above to avoid creating additional bulk around your midsection. Look for pairs with a slight stretch for ease of movement and a better fit around your waist and hips.

Avoid overly tight pants or those with many embellishments around the waist, as these can draw unwanted attention to your midsection. Instead, opt for clean, simple designs that enhance your figure without overwhelming it.

7- Structured jackets

Structured jackets are another essential piece for creating a balanced and polished look for those with a larger bust and tummy. Tailored blazers and jackets that nip in at the waist can work marvelously to define your figure while providing coverage and sophistication.

Opt for single-breasted styles that do not add extra bulk to your chest area. Additionally, a slightly longer jacket that hits at the hip or lower can elongate your silhouette and create a smooth transition from your bust to other regions.

Ensure the jacket fits well across your shoulders and bust without pulling or gaping to maintain a sharp, put-together appearance. This piece can effortlessly elevate any outfit, making it a versatile addition.

8- Proper Fitting Bras

A well-fitted bra is the foundation of any outfit, especially for those with a larger bust. It offers the necessary support and enhances the overall appearance of your clothes by ensuring a smooth silhouette. Aim to get professionally measured frequently, as your bra size can change due to various factors such as weight fluctuations or hormonal changes.

Look for bras with wide straps, full-coverage cups, and an underwire for maximum comfort and lift. Avoid bras that are too tight or leave marks on your skin, as they can cause discomfort and affect how your clothes fit on your body. Remember, the right bra can significantly affect how you look and feel.

9- Tummy Control Wear

Tummy control wear, or shapewear, is an incredibly helpful undergarment for smoothing out the tummy area and creating a more streamlined silhouette. When selecting shapewear, finding a balance between comfort and control is essential.

You want a piece that supports without constricting movement or breathing. Look for high-waisted styles that provide coverage from the bust down to the hips, ensuring a seamless look under your clothing.

Quality shapewear should enhance your curves and boost your confidence, making wearing tighter or more form-fitting clothing styles easier. Opt for pieces made from breathable fabrics to wear comfortably throughout the day.

10- Customization by Tailor

Remember to underestimate the power of tailoring to achieve the perfect fit for your body shape. Clothes off the rack often cater to a standard body type that might not match yours, especially if you have a larger bust and tummy.

Customization by a skilled tailor can adjust the fit of your garments to accentuate your best features and conceal those you’re less fond of. From taking in the waist of your pants to adjusting the hem of a dress, these small changes can significantly affect how your clothes look and feel.

Furthermore, tailoring can extend your wardrobe’s life by updating your pieces to fit your body shape. Investing in custom-fit clothing benefits your appearance and boosts your confidence by wearing clothes uniquely adjusted to you.

Accessorize Intelligently

If you have big busts and a tummy, you should shift your focus away from those areas and towards other parts of your body. Accessorizing can be a great way to do this, as it adds visual interest and draws attention to specific elements of your outfit.

For example, statement jewelry such as bold earrings or a chunky necklace can bring attention upwards towards your face and neckline rather than your bust area. Similarly, scarves or belts worn at the waist can create a defined hourglass shape and draw attention away from your tummy.

Just be mindful not to overdo it with accessories, as this can make an outfit look cluttered and overwhelming. Stick to one or two statement pieces per outfit for a balanced and put-together look.

Avoid Overwhelming Prints

When selecting patterns, those with a larger bust and tummy should opt for subtle, well-proportioned prints that harmonize with their silhouette rather than overpower it. Large, overpowering prints can draw unwanted attention and may exaggerate the areas you want to minimize.

Instead, consider smaller, more discrete patterns or vertical stripes that visually elongate the body, creating a slimmer profile. Choosing prints with a darker background is also beneficial, as this can provide a more flattering and slimming effect.

Remember, the right pattern can significantly enhance your outfit, adding a touch of elegance and personality while maintaining a flattering look.

Bonus Tip: Seize the High-Waisted Trend

High-waisted garments are an excellent choice for those looking to accentuate their waist and elongate their figure. This trend works wonders for individuals with a larger bust and tummy by providing more coverage and support and creating a naturally flattering silhouette.

Opt for high-waisted skirts, pants, or jeans that sit comfortably at your natural waistline, allowing a smoother transition between your upper and lower body. Not only do these pieces offer a vintage chic appeal, but they also help define your waist, making your overall look more polished and put-together.

Conclusion

The best fashion advice I can give my fellow plus-size beauties is to wear what feels good. Our bodies are all different—a garment that works wonders on one person might not feel right for another, and that’s okay.

Fashion is about expressing individuality, so take these tips as guidelines, not rules set in stone. Experiment with different styles until you find the ones that make you feel incredible because that feeling will shine through anything you wear.

Happy dressing, lovelies. May your wardrobe be as fabulous as you are!