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Clothes shopping for a plus size woman is hard enough with the majority of fashion outlets catering to smaller sizes. In Bozeman, the options may be much more limited but it’s not impossible to find cute outfits that fit, regardless of shape and size.

Where to find plus size clothing
Bozeman Magazine previously featured a junior’s clothing store that carries sizes for growing children and we need something like that for plus size women, too. Until then, curvy women will have to rely on big retailers for their clothing needs.

                                                                                                           photo: TJ Maxx Facebook
In Glamour Magazine’s list of the best stores that hold extended sizes, Bozeman has three of them, namely Macy’s, JCPenney, and T.J. Maxx. The first two department stores are a little bit more high-end, carrying brands like Calvin Klein and Michael Kors. Meanwhile, T.J. Maxx is a great source for fashionable yet affordable pieces from activewear to formal wear. Two other stores are Maurices and Target where you can find virtually all of your fashion needs for every kind of occasion.

How to dress for your size
Here are a few clothing tips that plus size women can follow to let their beauty shine through:

1. Ditch the baggy clothing. Many women think that wearing oversized clothes hides the parts of the body that they’re most insecure about. However, it can make you look more boxy or shapeless so it’s important that you choose clothes that actually accentuate your curves rather than hide them.

2. Fit over color. Forget the old rule that your wardrobe has to be composed of dark pieces to achieve that slimming effect. When it comes to clothing, it’s not actually about the color but the correct fit. You can wear light-colored tops and bottoms as much as you want as long as the clothes flatter your shape. If you’re a little bit wider in the hips, opt for tops with scoop or boat necks. To de-emphasize your midsection, high-waisted bottoms are a perfect choice, as well as tops with details near the waist. You can strap on a wide belt for more definition. When looking for denim, wide leg jeans are your best bet as Woman Within notes that the relaxed fit and added stretch can provide more comfort. The key is to balance out your proportions while wearing clothes that are neither too tight nor too loose.

3. Not all stripes are made equal. Patterns are not only playful, they can also make you look more svelte provided you choose the right ones. According to Verily Magazine, horizontal stripes are a no-no if you carry more weight on your top half. It can make you look wider. Instead, go for vertical stripes to give the illusion of length. But if you’re a classic rectangular shape, asymmetrical stripes can make you look more curvy. As for other prints, it’s better to try on an outfit to make sure that the patterns strategically play up or hide your features.

4. Vary the fabrics. If you like going for a nude or monochromatic looks, there are two basic rules you should follow. First, make sure that nude tones don’t match your exact skin color as it can be very unflattering. Shape Magazine claims that mixing up the fabrics is another golden rule. Mix denim with lace, velvet with knit, leather with silk, or any other combination. Don’t be afraid to play with textures and you’ll be surprised what works.

Every woman has the right to feel confident in the clothes that they wear. With these tips in mind, you’ll have an easier time shopping for clothes in Bozeman even with a narrower range of options.