How to style a curvy body shape (Plus Size body) | Justine Leconte 

Too much argumentation in the comment section: curvy, plus+ size, that's not curvy, she ain't plus+ size...etc etc.......geeeeeeeeze.......This video is informative, has lots of good tricks and is made with respect and kindness. Thank you Justine I really appreciate your videos and channel, merci beaucoup xxxxxx

Justine, as a plus size woman I really appreciate that you put so much thought into how to dress a plus size body. Most fashion designers and fashion writers prefer to ignore us. I've always thought that was odd, because for us to look good we really have to know fashion. Playing with proportions and misdirection is a daily activity for us. Your tricks were great. I actually use all of them, although I do have to be careful with stiff fabrics because while they hide a lot, if they're used in the wrong place or in the wrong way, they can add extra volume or make one look boxy. Personally I like to mix hard and soft so I can have clean lines where I want them and show off the sexy plus size curves with a soft skimming fabric. Anyway, I digress, point being you're awesome and thank you so much for respecting us enough to research all of that!

My biggest challenge as a curvy woman is finding high quality clothing. I want the same luxurious fabrics and impeccable tailoring that fashion houses offer to women at the other end of the spectrum. One solution has been shopping for quality fabrics and then finding a really good seamstress. Very hard to do in this day and age.

If I walk into a regular sized clothing store, I dont fit in most of the clothes. If I walk into a plus size store, everything is too big 😭😭

I actually almost cried when you said that designers cut clothes without curves. I always believed my body was wrong and now I know it’s not me but the design.

The Adele flowy red thingo’ was fab.

I always look up to Ashley Graham as my plus size role model with hourglass body type. She is perfect

that is the best advice for curvy girl's ever. also i love how it isnt patronizing

I love this vid! Realistic advice that can be easily accomplished. I've been skinny my whole life until diagnosed with a chronic disease and gaining 60lbs in 3months. I feel like a stranger in my own skin and style has become a battle. I will be using these tips and hoping for more. Thank you.

Thank you for the plain-speak! Enlightening non condemning and tips on looking fab! You are wonderful!!

I appreciate how well prepared and informative you are in your videos, Justine! Really enjoy your content. :)

Thank you for being so tactful about plus size women and for all the information! I am really enjoying your videos.

Thank you so much for being a "down-to-earth" designer and so friendly to us all!

Never thought I'd feel so comfortable taking plus size fashion advice from such a petite beautiful woman. Your knowledge and delivery is amazing!

I’m definitely more of an Adele. I hate my arms in particular. But, a few years ago now, I discovered that a very 50s style (same silhouette as Adele’s first dress) is definitely the most flattering for me. So I found it, and I stuck to it! Circle skirts and petticoats, and cute little cardigans, and belts cinching my waist. I’ve gone up and down in weight quite a bit in the last few years, and I find that when I’m smaller, I can do more of a 40s silhouette, and when I’m bigger, I do 50s better. And, not only are there always vintage repro and rockabilly outlets online, I’ve found City Chic to be the best non vintage. Here’s one massive plus to the style I wear- you’re far more likely to find big, useable pockets in the skirts and dresses! Yay for pockets!

Justine, I can't thank you enough for this video! My daughter is getting married in a month and I've changed my diet (95% plant based), am exercising, and have lost 25 pounds (yay!). However, all of the toning won't get rid of my belly in time. I've been dreading going dress shopping but now you've given me great information and hope. THANK YOU!!!

I find empire waist make me look pregnant but the other tactics work.

you look great with red lipstick! and these earrings are beautiful!!

You explain things in such a wonderful way. Thank you very much.

Could you make a video teaching us how to pronounce the name of French fashion houses? And a video about the renowned "Parisian" style? I would like to know your perspective since you are French! :)

for this not being your body size, as you have stated, you are sure nailing it. I'm in awe at how in touch you are with what looks best on all the different body types. You are right on the mark!

Justine, thanks so much for the warmth, concern, and caring that you show to us in your videos. You are able to give us such helpful and interesting information about clothing, fabric, sizes, etc. in a way that is so connecting and supportive. Thanks for all of your hard work and wonderful videos!

FINALLY!! A designer that understands the Plus Size body!!! Thank you ❤️😘

You did a good job of this video. You gave lots of helpful techniques as well as being very kind and reassuring. Very kind and classy.

@6:29, just wanted to mention that lovely black and white dress on the model is a maternity dress. I found that image when I was looking for plus size models for garments to make for my plus size friends. The monochromatic shoes/leggings work great. I suggested to my plus size friends that they start emphasizing their legs, and they love the look of a tunic (nearly knee length) with a knee length or just above knee length skirt. It can be very flattering on a plus size body. I've made tunics, skirts, and sheath dresses for my plus size friends, and they love the look. It can camouflage a large bust, a large abdominal area, and a large waist and it puts the entire focus on the legs. This video gave me some more tips for sewing for my plus size friends! Thanks so much.

These videos are all fascinating as well as helpful, including those on home renovations, cultural contexts, labor exploitation in industry, creativity, professional development, etc., but what is really remarkable is the empathy and generosity of spirit that suffuses them, as manifested here by the meticulous, comprehensive advice given to plus size women....THANKS!

My tips are to dress proportionally to your size and to mimic your body shape; avoid angular shapes (like triangular earrings) thin straps (in tops, dresses or handbags), small accessories (which will get lost on your frame), pointy shoes and thin/stiletto heels.

As curvy girl. Im not looking only for size of the cloth i want but also if it has the right shapes i need. As a patternmaker not all brands makes boxy clothes for skinny girls. Its more about looking for proper brand :) good luck to all ❤️and as always perfect video😍worthy to watch. Thank you

THANK YOU for saying that plus-size bodies come in all of the shapes as regular sizes! I’m a rectangle, my bestie is a pear, and we wear the same size (16 US). Missed size trousers fit me but not her. Regular size tops fit her but not me. 🤷🏼‍♀️

Hi, Justine! I appreciate that you get straight to the point and are funny ,kind, and so very knowledgeable. Watching your videos is like a mini course in fashion design. One thought: A video for changing out your old wardrobe into a new one to suit the body you have now (gained or lost weight etc,) would be great too. What three or four pieces should one start with? Thank you

Thanks so much for the help! I personally have a very hard time finding clothes that look good on me. I have wide shoulders, smaller breasts, thin legs and all of my weight is around my waist. A trick that I have found really helpful is wearing a really long scarf with as much volume as possible on my chest (no complicated knots on the neck that make your face look fat) that fell straight in a long line in front of my belly. I found it brought a balance to my appearance.

Justine, you have made my night! I discovered your channel today and am binge watching it! This video is SO helpful (they all are, but I am a curvy girl)! After watching the video you did on sizing and then this one, I realized that I have good instincts for what looks best on me and that I need to follow them and feel good about what I am wearing and how best to highlight what I love about my body! Thank you SO VERY MUCH for your positivity and kindness, both shine through every video I have watched! ❤️

Thank you-- you've clarified things I "knew" in some hazy fashion, and given me some new tips as well.

Thank you!!!!! Love your videos. My daughter and I have learned so much. She now nails clothes shopping, always adding her personality into the style that is refreshing and complimentary. She is helping me who is not as confident. I used to hate clothes shopping but with your tips and knowledge I’ve been able to know what to look for and now find it fun. Thank you. Love from Alaska.

Hey, I just found you the other day and I just wanted to say THANK YOU SO MUCH. That you take into consideration all shapes of people and that you care so much about ethical sourcing. Your videos have been super inspiring.

Sizing can be difficult and I've found that esp. true here in the states. I'm not a Plus size but have always worn a perfect size 12-14, the average size of most American women. I think a big problem for many American women and young girls is the problem of jeans and pants. We find jeans/pants that fit our waist but the legs are too big for our slim legs. Or conversely I find jeans/pants that fit the legs perfectly and butt which mine is small but the waist doesn't fit because I've always had a naturally thick waist. So this is why elasticized or drawstring pants are popular and very comfortable to wear. I also wish designers would consider more natural looking and comfortable bras with no padding or underwiring. Here in the states, it seems like all the bras are padded and underwires. Not all women need padding or underwiring and not all women like to wear thongs so variety in lingerie is also important as well. Another great video...thanks for sharing.

Thanks for the tips! I'm just above the average 'pear' type measurements on most dresses I've seen, but too small for the next size up, so having a good idea of what to look for will be really helpful.

Justine I love this look on you! Especially the red lip and curled lashes!

Thanks Justine, that was very helpful. What works for me are: V necks to elongate my short neck and accentuate my nice bust :), empire line tops, longer tops that cover my tummy, 3/4 length sleeves to show off my thin wrists, bootleg or flared full-length jeans or trousers with heels underneath, open jackets (mostly below my hips) worn over something fitted at my waist so it looks like I'm slimmer than I really am. However, what works the best is losing a bit of weight! Your videos are very helpful and inspiring though. Keep them coming. I'd like you to do one on the fascination the French have with British style - is it just all about the royals, or do the French like other things about the way the English dress? From here, it seems that a lot of British girls wear too much makeup and not enough clothes but maybe I'm just getting old....

I love fall because that’s when we can get out our layering pieces which is very flattering !

I really like her. She makes a lot of sense.

Justine, your explanations and suggestions are always so kindly expressed. Thank you.

-Thank you for making this video. It's tricky because, as you can see, the debate on what is considered plus size can be challenging and it's a matter of opinion. You did a great job with tips on how to divert focus and accentuate parts that you are most comfortable with. Thank you for not ignoring plus size, as most designers tend to do.

It seems that lots of women have issues with finding clothes for their shape and size. As per my measurements (bust 86cm; waist 72cm; hips 87cm), I am between XS and M. One would think it is piece of cake to find well fitting clothes but it is far from my reality. I can hardly remember the last time when I didn't have to take the new piece of clothing to the seamstress and alter something :( Length of pants (shorter legs), the length of sleeves (longer hands), hip width ( I am narrow!), you name it I altered it. For someone being only 168cm and rectangle body shape, I have to be very creative to look well put up and feminine. So often I caught myself looking into women with curves with total admiration if dressed with style. I guess it is the part of "the grass is greener on the other side":))

I love your smile and your non judgmental way of presenting all body types. I'm petite 4'11 and find even pettie pants too long and mostly opt for dresses or skirts. I'm curvy and extremely large breasted 34DDD and find it so difficult to dress me and in my mid 50s. I so need a wardrobe make over.

Thank you! I am a curvy plus size lady and I love the advice you gave in this video!

Excellent suggestions! My hardest one is finding a balance between soft fabrics (that are very popular) to layer. Stiff fabric that has established "body" is my friend!

I'd love for once to see a video about dressing plus size people that isn't about making them look thinner/ hide parts of their body. I enjoy your videos anyways (:

How do you style an area of your body that you don't like? Example, you love lower necklines, but your bust is smaller than you like so your favorite neckline is lacking? on a personal note, I just found your channel a week ago, and I REALLY love it. Thank you so much for your honesty, and your styling tips.

Thanks so much for doing this video! I feel like the fashion world likes to pretend those of us who wear plus sizes don't exist. It's getting better, but whenever I'd watch you videos a part of me didn't feel like they really applied to me as a plus size person. Your tips are great, but even more than that I love feeling like I actually belong in this community, even if my body does not meet anything resembling the standards or the fashion world.

Could you please do a "How to style..." for tall women? I am 5'10'' and find it really difficult to style and tend to dress as if I'm making myself appear invisible not to draw attention to my height. Thank you

I've recently gained a lot of weight (approx 30kg to be exact, from 54.5kg to 85kg) from being on birth control and have now switched medications. I'm not at all comfortable with all this excess weight and this new body and my face has even gotten fatter so much so whenever I look at a mirror I barely recognise myself. Whilst I'm seeing a dietian re my diet and exercising everyday - till I get my old body back - these tips are wonderful and much appreciated! You are a star among youtubers and your videos are always well researched with a lot of your own thought too. Thank you so much Justine xx

Excellent AND I love your sense of humour.

Justine, I've just happened upon your channel and found this video extremely helpful! The fact that designs are created for a fashion size small and then just sized up from there...that was a light bulb moment for me! No wonder clothes shopping for me is always so frustrating! I'm both tall (at 5'11") and plus-sized (US 22/24), but have always felt like I'm "in between" sizes due to having an hour glass body type. If I go up in shirt size for my bust, everything else is too bulky, or up in waist in my pant, there is too much fabric in the crotch or thigh, etc. Just that tip helped me to understand why, so thank you!

Curvy is a shape. Not a size. You can be a curvy size 6 or 16. I just needed to clarify because too many people confuse curvy with just plus size.

Justine, mentioned about clothes not fitting either in the bust, waist, hips, and thighs. For myself personally since I have always been curvy and thick, my biggest issue is whether or not my clothes are digging in the creases of my armpits or in my private areas. Everything else was not an issue because I secretly wanted to show off my body, but was always afraid of what others would view me as. Besides that, if the shirts or pants dig into my creases, I would not even consider buying them no matter how good they looked on me or if they were a good price. Flowy, baggy, cowl-like shirts and wide legged pants are my go to when it comes to buying clothes even when I have a full hourglass figure. I have dresses that accentuate my curves, but I only wear them if I'm going to a formal event like a dance or when I graduated high school not too long ago. So, yea. I just wanted to share my fashion experience with you since you were mentioning it in the video.

Bonjour Justine, I'm a middle-aged woman who menopause has changed from tiny taille 38, with small breasts (90B) into an exploded taille 44, with a large bust (105C!). This happened to me in less than 6 months, even with big diets and exercise. Also, soon after that happened, ongoing cancer treatment that I must have for the rest of my life has stolen my hair so I must live with short grey hair or a wig. My question is: I am wondering if you could do a video for women who have suddenly changed and must completely change their wardrobes. Answers I am looking for are: What colors look good with short grey hair, and, How can post menopause women dress classically as well?

I am really getting addicted to your channel. I am learning so much! I do not count as plus size anymore, since I have lost quite some weight in the last year, but I am so happy to get an inside as to how clothes work, and how I can use them to my advantage. Many hugs!

I love your videos! Could you do a video on designers or brands that make high quality ?

Thank you very much! I myself appreciate you! You are considerate in supplying us curvy girls with your pearls of wisdom!

VERY Inspiring! I watched lots of video here.. and practiced with them.Thank you so much for being with us! 😇👋

THANK YOU!! I feel have figured most of this stuff out on my own, but this video was gratifyingly confirming!

- go for really short or full length pants (avoid cropped 6/8 or 7/8 bec. makes legs look shorter) - if uncomfy with waist (use cardigan, blazer, jacket that is left open) - use thicker fabrics because they hide flaws

I think this video plus the ones where you explain why/where clothes don't fit because the design is cut wrong is the most helpful. I actually have the issue where I am loosing weight and don't like my 'in progress to my new body' so I will have to work on that.

This video really helps me... From your suggestions I can resurrect my wardrobe with just a few adjustments to update and Taylor from my body size!

I just looooovvvee the way u speak... u r so calm n gentle in ur speech .....it actually helps the viewer concentrate n focus on Wat u r saying 😊👌✌👍

Thank you, Justine! I'm going to try these ideas with what I already have in my wardrobe.

Thank you for the information. I am one of the females who have no idea of how to dress in a manner that helps me feel pretty and attractive, so I can appreciate your information. It helps me understand where to start my journal.

Every time I go shopping I re-watch your styling videos. Very big warm and flowery 'thanks' from me. Thanks Justine

Piggybacking on your comment about thicker fabrics, I would recommend plus size women wear more natural fabrics, like silk, linen, and wool, as well as cotton and blends like linen-cotton. These fabrics will camouflage the less savory bits of your body without hugging every curve like jersey knit fabrics. I know natural fiber garments are way more expensive for everybody, and I would be surprised if much even exists for plus size women based on what my plus size friends tell me. You can always find a tailor to make you a few garments. It's expensive, but you will get exactly what you want and it will flatter your body and make you feel amazing. Because of the miserable availability of quality garments for plus size women, which I had no idea about until my friends told me, I consider sewing garments for them a form of social activism. :)

Very informative I am 67, and it strikes me I am only just starting to understand how to dress 😊.Thank you

its a lovely video to watch , really helpful..😘.. just a request... if you could let us know the brands if there are in specific which has good collection for plus size clothing...

Wow, this was so helpful. I bought a dress and style it with a belt based on this video and I get so many compliments whenever I wear this outfit. Please could you do more videos like this. Love the channel

As a plus size hour glass (ok three hour glass) I don't understand why I do not see more princess line dresses for plus size. As an hour glass the princess line is a natural choice as it accentuates my chest to waist and waist to hip. For a apple I can take the same princess line and do color blocking bright in front and back and dark colors on sides gives the illusion of hourglass. I like to put my hem line at the narrow places on the legs, where the calf starts to taper in, just above the knee or just below the knee. Also stopping at the ankle is good all of these are great with matching legging or tights. What do you think?

what a helpful video, i've already watched 3 of your vids, can't wait to watch more!

This is a great video! Thank you. Very thoughtful & great information & ideas for styling outfits. You're really lovely & I'm enjoying your channel & catching up with your vids.

I've always liked really amazing shoes that stand out, but I also have really short legs. The trick I use is using stocking that are the same color as my dress/skirt so the lower half of my body looks longer. That way they see me as taller than I really am and they see my shoes as well.

I'm 5' 6" slightly short-waisted 40 DDD bust, hourglass type. For me, I need to use a supportive bra and undergarments. I've had good success with lightweight broomstick pleat tops, dark toned pants. The tops have full sleeves and follow my curves pulling in a bit at the waistline -- many tops make me look boxy or pregnant if I'm not careful I also find layering a jacket that either ties at the waist or can be buttoned only at the waist works. I'm generally at the smallest plus size, although I buy what works and ignore the size labels. Love your videos!!!!

Hi Justine. My hour glass figure. I have a short waist so the princess line dresses come in under my busy and look elegant but are super comfy. Also I use a T shape and layer. So I may have leggings and looser top. The top garment either long line textured cardigan/ jacket or a more tailored style really works. A fitted long line jacket that has a beeline above the knee is my preferred choice for suit silhouette and in winter to look smart casual. I have a great corduroy coat this style that looks great as a top layer with lots of my wardrobe. Finally, time off from hour glass. A thigh length top that is asymmetrical and I team this with a funky belt. Sometimes I style the belt to one side too which takes the emphasis off my short waist!!

Great tips in this video 💋 love your earrings on you - they really highlight your eyes!!

Thank you so much Justine! I have been waiting for a video like yours for so long now ☺ (by the way,love the earings)

I hope plus size street retail brands watch this. Also they could help with signage to indicate certain styles flattering to which body shapes.

I have a hard time finding pants either they are to short,or the waist is to small.One day I went to the juniors section and the pants fit perfectly and they are cheaper!

I am a plus sized lady and have an hourglass body type. However, when viewed from the side, I am thick and am often asked if I am pregnant. How do I combat this?

Hi Justine, Thank you for this video and I am happy to come by your channel. Your tips are great, but my only issue is finding stores that sell clothing for larger women of all heights and not over the top price point.

Hi Justine, new subscriber here. I love the idea of a capsule wardrobe but find it difficult to actually do because I cannot wear the 'essentials' that seem to form the basis of that style. I watched your 10 wardrobe essentials video and my heart dropped! I can't wear flats as I immediately get cramps in my feet, a blazer over my 36J bust looks awful and the same has to be said for the white shirt! I am not hourglass shaped, I am more like a chicken! I have slim arms and legs but huge bust, thick waist and wide hips. I tend to veer towards tunics as I can show off my slim wrists and legs but have cover for the lumps. One tip I can pass on, I buy knee length underskirts, that is a full slip, and then shorten them to mid or higher thigh length to wear under my tunics. This way if I raise my arms the tunic will slide back down into place instead of sitting on my bottom and it stops things clinging to the lumps underneath. Also the pretty lace trim can peep over the neckline of the tunic and help mask a too-generous cleavage. I am getting on in years but still enjoy dressing nicely but being this shape means fashion trends tend not to work so I alter and embellish things to suit my style. Also it means I tend not to meet my outfit on someone else! I am enjoying getting to know you and your tips are really interesting. Thank you. If I am allowed, can I recommend a company that makes good underwear for the curvy ladies? They also make white shirts with extra fittings for bigger busts. No good to me because of my big midriff but they do flatter the hourglass girls. It is called Bravissimo and can be found on line. Their prices are quite good too considering and the bras are very pretty. Sadly again not strong enough for me but I have found a good make in Prima Donna, [the Madison bra] but they come in at nearly £70 each. What they do for the shape of me though is worth it, and they help take the weight of my chest which has helped with the back problems it has caused. People have always envied me my bust not realising its like carrying two bags of sugar round your neck everyday!

Thank you for this. You are trully amazing.

I am a curvy plus size person. I prefer dresses with princess seams. One company I have found that I really like is Holy Clothing. Their dresses go from mini to floor length(on me), from sleeveless to long sleeve with fitted or flared sleeves. Most do not have a set waist but most have a self tie belt. All have some type of embroidery. These are good dresses for me as if I find a dress that fits my top and bottom they sag at my waist and look messy with the tie belt I can nip the waist in and the rest of the dress hangs nicely.

Thanks so much for putting in the time for this video and giving us a shot at achieving a nice look. I , personally really love your talent , brain power and creativity. You’re very special. Thanks again. Love from the States! ❤️💄🌺🌷

Thank you Justine for all your videos, everyday I learn something new. you are like an institute to me.

Thank you for the great advice! :) P.S. beautiful lipstick! Could I ask what is it?

Thank you so much! Shopping for quality plus size clothes is already exhausting. This helps a bit... 💕💕💕

As a morbidly obese woman I appreciate your kindness in your descriptions of curvy girls. I am short and there is nothing about my body that I like. My neck is too wide and short, shoulders too narrow, legs short and fat, stomach like a balloon and butt that Big Momma would be proud of and to top it off I just hit 60. So it is frustrating finding clothes that fit and look good. Nothing is going to look good so I rarely go out thus saving myself money. But I generally use the tips you have suggested except I absolutely hate having anything with a waist. So I thank you for your advice and I hope to one lose this confounded weight permanently before I die of old age or sooner. Lol!

Hello, I am Plus sized and an apple shape. I find what works best for Me is Empire waisted tops and dresses. I like it if these have a thick, structured belt but NOT TIGHT, belt for just under my Bust. I also wear bell sleeves or short sleeves, never cap sleeves. My pants are usually always high rises to cover a large belly and the Flowiness of an Empire style covers this trouble spot nicely. It also makes it appear smaller.

Would you do a segment for women who are short waisted/long legged AND curvy? I find the new flowly fashion tops make me look short and wide.

Much appreciated Justine. I find the info that you've shared very useful. Thank you!

I absolutely love your videos! I find each one chocked full of extremely useful information, with ideas that I can use right away. Personally, I secretly wish that we could be friends - you know... & go out for coffee & conversations.😊 As far as this video- I found your ideas super helpful & learned new things that I hadn't heard before. I've only been a plus size for a brief period of my life & have found it to be quite discouraging when shopping for clothing. In the US, most stores carry much of the same styles & follow the latest trend- not always useful or likable. I really appreciate that you chose to do videos on fashion according to body type & curvy/plus sizes!

A size 34 pants fits me perfectly and flaunts the curves so well, I just learnt about that recently, I've been fitting clothes randomly before and had trouble getting a good outfit

Great video Justine! Wonderful ideas and very respectful and professional!

Justine, this is such a lovely place to be. Your communication style is so helpful and pleasant making us all feel 'ok' about ourselves. Thank you so much, I'm addicted and agonise endlessly about looking my very best' ME.' I"m sure I spend too much time here but it is better than any tv!!! Love and thanks. xxx