Tips for Choosing the Most Flattering Sweaters for Your Body Type

Selecting the perfect plus size sweaters for your wardrobe is something of a fine art. It makes sense to select the ones that appeal to your senses first. Some colors, silhouettes, and fabrics just resonate with you right away. Shopping for yourself is all about celebrating what makes you happy and choosing those pieces that help you look and feel your very best. Here's how to find the most flattering sweaters for your body shape.

Focus on the Neckline

Your curves may be on top or on the bottom, or you may have more of an hourglass shape. No matter which of these silhouettes describes you, different sweater necklines can help show off your assets beautifully. A V-neck women's sweater is a flattering choice that will draw the eye upward and elongate your torso to create a more streamlined look. If you have a small bust, try a scoop neck to create a more balanced appearance.

Sweaters for Triangle Figures

Sometimes referred to as "pear" shapes, triangle body types have fuller hips with narrower shoulders and smaller busts. The goal is to pull the eye upward to convey the appearance of greater balance. Opt for a women's cardigan sweater or pullover that falls no lower than the hip bone. Longer lengths tend to call attention to the widest part of your hips, which can take away from your intended effect. Look for bright jewel tones–like reds, purples, and emeralds–that play well with simple bottoms like black wide-leg pants or dark-wash jeans. If you prefer a longer sweater, opt for an open cardigan that you can wear with a hip-length top in a contrasting color underneath to convey a similar effect.

Sweaters for Inverted Triangles

This body type has shoulders that are broader than the hips with less definition at the waist. Focus on sweaters that allow you to show off your upper body stylishly and comfortably. The aforementioned V-neck is your closet's MVP, and you should make it your mission to choose as many pieces as possible with that silhouette. Women's tunic sweaters are among the best options for you because they're breezy and forgiving and don't call attention to the waist. That said, you don't have to avoid structured pieces altogether. If you love the look of something that has a more refined finish, try a thick cotton sweater for something with a bit more shape. It will negotiate the area between your bust and hips with some more definition, yet it won't actually call attention to the waistline.

Sweaters for Hourglass Figures

When your curves are equally balanced on the top and bottom, you might consider your shape to be an hourglass. This body type is typically defined by a distinctly defined waist and even measurements at the bust and hips. Both of these areas, along with the thighs, may be on the fuller side. To maximize the beauty of your figure, it's best to wear figure-flattering sweaters that call attention to the waistline for a highly defined look. Anything fitted will look great on this figure, whether it's a dress or a sweater. Turtleneck sweaters are a great choice because they conform to the figure beautifully, creating something of a foundation that you can pair with anything from jeans to pencil skirts. Wrap sweaters are also an excellent option, especially those with deep V-necklines. You'll establish a structured look from top to bottom.

Think About Color Choices

Don't discount the value of a great color. There are dozens of rules swirling around in the fashion world, many of them intent on dictating what figures should and shouldn't wear. Don't abide by anything that doesn't sit well with you–fashion is inherently about remaining true to yourself, expressing your personal style, and feeling your very best. Love a bright hue? Wear that sweater like a boss! You can also make colors work to your curves' advantage. Solid colors on any end of the spectrum are always a safe bet, including rich jewel tones or soft pastels. You can also create a strategically color-blocked style to bring the eye to your waist by layering a solid sweater over a longer top and finishing with a pair of jeans. A trio of shades can be flattering in an effortless way.