The common misconception about plus sizes and plus size customers is that they are fat. The truth is, it is just a line of clothing sizes made for real women. More often than not, these women are well-endowed in terms of their breasts and hips. Some might say voluptuous and Rubenesque, while others would just call them normal—built the way a woman should be.

By definition, plus size clothing ranges from size 14 and up for women. Another term used is “outsize”. Popular plus size figures include Kate Dillon, Johanna Dray, Charlotte Coyle, Emme Aronson, Queen Latifah, Toccara Jones, and many others. Size 12 women sizes fall under the faux plus size.

When picking plus size clothes, get the precise measurements of your body. Just because you fit into size 14 tops, does not necessarily mean you also fit into size 14 bottoms. It all depends on your body shape. Make allowances for these little things, and take your natural body shape into account.

Regardless of what dress size you have, the general rule of thumb about the dress cuts still apply. If you are pear-shaped, stay away from bottoms made of heavy fabric with flared cuts and noisy patters. Those with sexy hour-glass figures should opt for something low-neck and waist-hugging. Cowl necks look great on any kind of body shape so it is a good thing to look out for in women’s plus size clothing.

Celebrate your figure. Just because you do not look like something straight out of a UNICEF card does not mean you have to resort to wearing tent-like dress. The truth is, you are better off with clean-cut, body-hugging designs that should off your assets in a flattering manner. Big, loose dresses made up of heavy material may be comfortable, but they do not look good on anyone.