Plus Size Summer Clothes

Vintage Plus Size Summer Clothes

Thirty and 40 years ago, plus size women who wanted to wear cooler clothes in the summer didn't have much to choose from. The big beautiful women who graced magazine covers and the silver screen were replaced by much thinner models and actresses. And because full-figured women were disappearing from the limelight, so were their fashions. Summer clothes available at that time included:

• Loose sundresses
• Oversized t-shirts, camp shirts or sleeveless, button-down blouses
• Long flowing skirts
• Gauchos or culottes

They came in either dark boring colors such as navy, black, brown or gray, or in bright colorful patterns that weren't very pleasing on the eyes. And let's not even talk about the swimsuits from those days. Swimdresses with what looked like built-in bullet bras were all the rage. The goal of the clothing was to try and remain cool without showing a lot of skin.

On the other end of the spectrum, some of the more "stylish" plus size outfits on the market were just larger patterns of the clothing items made for smaller-sized women. Many of prints, fabrics and styles were not flattering to plus-sized women.

Plus Size Summer Clothing of the 21st Century

Stylish plus size clothing made a comeback during the 1990s when plus celebrities such as model Emme (Melissa) Aronson and actress Delta Burke showed full-figured gals that they can be healthy and happy without having to wear a size two. Clothing designers took note of this and started creating more fashionable plus size clothing items -- including summertime attire.

Styles Plus-sized Women Want

Current trends in plus size summer clothing cover both ends of the spectrum: From classy and chic evening wear to cool and comfy casual outfits. Long gone are the days where women have to cover up their curves instead of showing them off. Some great summer time staples include:

• Capris or cropped pants: From denim to stretch cotton, these pants should be in every plus-sized women's wardrobe. They are cool enough to wear on hot days, but hide any imperfections in your lower body that you may have. Dressier capris and cropped pants can be worn to work or for evenings out on the town.
• Cotton t-shirts: Choose from v-neck or scooped-neck styles in any number of colors. T-shirts can be worn with jeans and long denim skirts or tucked into some dress pants and worn with a cute blazer or cardigan on those cool summer evenings.
• Long skirts: Flowing or straight skirts look great with sandals on a hot day or warm evening. Dress them up with a pair of knee-high nylons and dress shoes for the workplace.
• Swimsuits and coverups: While swimdresses were popular decades ago, they are still a hot commodity for plus-sized women today. Also big-sellers are tankinis, swim shorts and skirtinis. And don't forget that coverup! Choose from sarongs or terrycloth hoodies.
• Casual shorts: Plus-sized women's shorts can be flattering if you choose the right style and size. The majority of curvy ladies do not go for the "Daisy Duke" style, but opt for denim or stretch cotton walking or Bermuda shorts that fall just inches above the knees.
• Little black dress: While a plus-sized lady's black dress may not be that little, it should be one that everyone will remember. For those nights when you need something a little dressier, a chic black dress will get you there. Bring along a wrap or shawl for those air-conditioned rooms.
• Sleeveless tanks and camis: These are perfect on those really hot days. Wear them layered for a day at the park or out shopping, or cover them up a bit with a jacket or sweater on cooler evenings.

Don't Forget Accessories

Now that you've figured out what to wear, remember to properly accessorize the outfits. Those should include:

• Sandals
• Canvas tennis shoes
• Flip-flops for the beach or pool
• Fashionable belts
• A few different handbags and totes
• Sunglasses
• Headbands
• Various earrings, necklaces and bracelets (including those for your ankles)

Shopping for Plus Size Summer Outfits

To get the best deals and selections of plus size summer clothing, shop early. Depending on where you live, most stores start stocking their shelves by March. Online, you can find some cute plus size summer outfits at:

• Old Navy
• Avenue
• Lane Bryant
• Target
• Just My Size
• Lands' End

Take your time when perusing the online catalogs and make sure you check out each store's sizing charts before ordering. You can also sign up to receive discounts and coupons via e-mail.

A Final Note

It's true summer clothing styles have changed over the last few decades, but don't let the designs dictate your comfort level. If wearing cropped pants is more comfortable than wearing shorts on hot days, then go for it. And before showing off those legs and feet, treat yourself to a pedicure to make your toes look and feel as pretty as you are. Have a great summer, and don't forget your sunscreen!