When it comes to fashion, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach—especially for plus size women. While the fashion industry has come a long way in embracing inclusivity, finding stylish, flattering, and confidence-boosting clothing is still a challenge many curvy women face. But here’s the truth: style has no size. And with the right pieces and know-how, every woman—regardless of body shape—can look and feel incredible in her clothes.
In this article, we’re diving deep into how to style plus size tops for every body shape, blending body-positive advice, practical styling tips, and the confidence boost every woman deserves. Let’s help you love your wardrobe again—one top at a time.
Why Plus Size Women Struggle with Styling Tops
Before we get into styling tips, it’s important to recognize the real-life frustrations that plus size women face when shopping or dressing for their shape:
· Limited variety: Many mainstream stores still carry only basic, oversized, or unflattering designs in extended sizes.
· Poor fit and construction: Some plus size tops are either too loose (hiding your figure entirely) or too tight (emphasizing areas you might not want to showcase).
· Lack of styling representation: Most fashion blogs, influencers, and style guides cater to smaller sizes, leaving curvy women with fewer relatable references.
· Negative body image and self-doubt: Years of being told to “hide” or “cover up” certain areas create styling anxiety.
Now, let’s flip the script. Your body deserves celebration, not concealment. And with the right plus size tops for your body shape, your personal style can truly shine.
Understanding Plus Size Body Shapes
Knowing your body shape isn’t about restricting your choices—it’s about understanding where you might want to enhance, balance, or accentuate.
Here are the most common plus size body types and how to identify yours:
1. Apple Shape (Round or Oval)
o Carries weight around the midsection
o Slimmer legs and hips
o Bust may be fuller
2. Pear Shape
o Hips wider than shoulders
o Defined waist
o Narrower upper body
3. Hourglass Shape
o Bust and hips are nearly equal in width
o Well-defined waist
4. Rectangle Shape (Athletic)
o Bust, waist, and hips fairly uniform
o Less defined curves
5. Inverted Triangle
o Broader shoulders
o Narrower hips
o Often fuller bust
Let’s explore how to style plus size tops for each of these shapes—while embracing what makes your body unique.
Styling Plus Size Tops for Apple-Shaped Bodies
Apple-shaped women often worry about how to minimize the midsection, but the key is creating vertical lines and structure.
Styling Tips:
· V-necks and wrap tops: These draw the eyes vertically and elongate the torso.
· Tops with ruching or draping: Strategically placed fabric softens the tummy area.
· Empire waists: These cinch just below the bust and flow away from the midsection.
· Avoid clingy fabrics: Look for structured materials that provide shape without squeezing.
Tunics with side slits, high-low hems, and fabrics like chiffon or crepe can be your best friend. Choose patterns that draw the eye upward or create vertical movement.
Styling Plus Size Tops for Pear-Shaped Bodies
If your hips are wider than your shoulders, the goal is to balance your proportions by adding volume or interest up top.
Styling Tips:
· Statement shoulders or puff sleeves: Add volume to your upper body.
· Bright or patterned tops: Draw the eye upward.
· A-line or peplum styles: Balance the hips while showing off your waist.
· Off-the-shoulder and boat necks: Broaden the shoulders visually.
Think bold colors, structured silhouettes, and creative details around the neckline. Cropped jackets or layered tops can also create proportion without clinging to the hips.
Styling Plus Size Tops for Hourglass Bodies
Hourglass figures have balance built in—emphasize that shape!
Styling Tips:
· Fitted or belted tops: Highlight your waist.
· Wrap tops and V-necks: Accentuate curves tastefully.
· Avoid boxy cuts: These hide your shape.
· Stretch fabrics: Contour your body without squeezing.
Look for tops with darts or adjustable ties to ensure proper shaping. Don’t be afraid to wear body-hugging styles, especially when paired with high-waisted bottoms that support your curves.
Styling Plus Size Tops for Rectangle Shapes
Rectangle-shaped women can create the illusion of curves with structure and contrast.
Styling Tips:
· Peplum or ruffle tops: Create volume around hips and bust.
· Tops with belts or waist detail: Define the waistline.
· Layering: Use jackets, vests, or cardigans to break up the silhouette.
· Patterns and color blocking: Add visual interest and movement.
Try combining structured tops with flowing fabrics on bottom, or use contrasting textures to create separation between your top and lower body. Don’t shy away from embellishments—they can be your secret weapon.
Styling Plus Size Tops for Inverted Triangle Bodies
If your upper body is broader than your hips, you can soften the top and add interest to the lower half.
Styling Tips:
· Avoid shoulder pads or puffy sleeves: These emphasize width.
· Go for scoop or cowl necks: These soften the chest area.
· Flowy, tunic-length tops: Create balance with slim pants.
· Solid color tops + printed bottoms: Shift attention downward.
Draped necklines and asymmetrical hems can help soften your silhouette, while subtle detailing like ruching or pleats helps to distract from shoulder width.
Confidence Over Conformity: Breaking the “Fashion Rules”
Let’s be real: you don’t have to “dress for your shape” if it doesn’t feel like you. Personal style isn’t just about guidelines—it’s about expression, comfort, and confidence.
· Wear a crop top if you love it.
· Try bold prints if they make you smile.
· Don’t hide your arms if you don’t want to.
· Forget size tags—they don't define beauty.
What’s most important is that your clothing makes you feel powerful. And that power often begins with a top that fits well, flatters your body, and aligns with your vibe.
Where to Find Stylish Plus Size Tops
If you're tired of basic tees and oversized shirts that drown your shape, it's time to explore brands that get it. At PRUSES, we specialize in plus size fashion for real women—offering pieces that are modern, bold, and designed to make you feel amazing in your skin.
Whether you love plus size crop tops, flowy blouses, figure-hugging bodysuits, or off-the-shoulder styles, there’s a piece here for you—and your shape.
Customer favorites include:
· V-neck wrap tops that define the waist
· Soft, breathable fabrics that move with you
· Stylish, inclusive sizing from XL to 5XL+
Final Thoughts: You Deserve Clothes That Celebrate You
Styling plus size tops is about more than flattering your figure—it’s about reclaiming joy in dressing up. Whether you're curvy, athletic, busty, or somewhere in between, the right top can boost your confidence and reflect your personality.
So the next time you find yourself wondering what looks good on me, remember: you set the rules. And with a little knowledge, a few killer pieces, and a lot of self-love, every body shape becomes a canvas for effortless style.
Ready to upgrade your wardrobe? Explore our best-selling plus size tops at PRUSES and find your next go-to piece. Because style should fit you—not the other way around.
