Countless lists of “upcoming trends” drop each spring, many of which are only covering the same high fashion pieces that miss the mark on accessibility or offer styles that are only flattering to the tallest, most model-esque, and least relatable body types. This is not one of those lists. Below, we have gathered what will actually be featured in UK high street stores this summer along with what is actually worth the spend for plus size customers.
Wide-leg/Lighter Trousers
This spring has brought a noticeable shift from slim, more structured trousers to wide-leg, loose styles. Some brands have taken inspiration from certain designer collections, referring to these newer styles as “balloon” or “genie” trousers. This shift has been positive for plus size dressing as lightweight trousers with wide legs don’t restrict or cling to the body, and can easily be paired with a more fitted top.
What is most important to pay attention to is the fit at the waist and hip. Many of the wide-leg styles have a generous fit through the leg but narrow waistbands leaving a gap. If you can, look for a wrap waist or elasticated waist style, especially in a linen or linen blend style. These will tend to hold a fit better as opposed to a stiffer denim.
Detailing on lightweight blouses
This summer, blouses with various trims such as ruffles, broderie anglaise and lightweight lace, have been a major feature on the high street, as seen from retailers such as M&S, Zara, and H&M. For those with fuller figures, one must consider where the detail is placed. For instance, details placed at the sleeves or collar would be more flattering as opposed to blouses which are ruffled or gathered at the waist.
When selecting this type of blouse, it would be advisable to try both tucked and untucked variations, as the placement of the volume in relation to the waist, would determine the overall silhouette of the blouse.
## Use of Bold Colour, With Caution
After a few years of muted palettes, bolder colours and jewel tones have made a return. The easiest way to incorporate this trend would be through a single piece. For instance, pair a bold blouse or dress with neutral trousers or sandals instead of trying to style multiple bright pieces.
Jewel tones such as emerald or deep teal are a great way to get back to some colours that have been setting aside. These classic colours are richer and more flattering to a wider variety of skin tones compared to the high acid shades.
Florals and midi dresses — with a caveat
Midi dresses are once again a design favorite for summer, and there is more variety in available plus-size selections. One trend detail, the “basque waist” (a dropped and structured waistband) can be a shape-dependent design detail. A basque waist can work best above or along the natural waist, as opposed to a dress that cuts across and creates a diagonal line.
If you are shopping for a dress with a basque waist, it is a good idea to take a side view photo in addition to a front view photo. A basque waist may look good from the front view, but can look bad from the side view depending on the placement of the waist.
Oversized blazers, again
For a few seasons, oversized blazers have been a wardrobe staple, and this summer, they are a stylish light outer layer either over a dress or a tank and trouser combination for night. For plus-size apparel, a lightweight outer layer has been a useful addition to a plus-size wardrobe. An oversized blazer adds a layering element to a plus-size wardrobe over a plus-size summer layering outfit.
The fit point to consider is that an oversized blazer should be oversized throughout the design, including the shoulder with an oversized design. An oversized blazer with a fitted shoulder design can look like a sizing error instead of intentional.
Where to actually get this in plus size
The good news is that most of the above can be found on the UK high street in extended sizing instead of only being available in specialty stores. M&S has great options for plus size in most of their seasonal offerings. Whistles and Jigsaw, while not exclusively plus size, have been extending their ranges, particularly in styles that feature wide legs and blouses like those shown above that incorporate wraps and wide adjustable waists.
Sizing is not consistent across brands. It is important consulting a retailers’ size guide when shopping online, as brands may be new to extended sizing and the largest size may be offered, but poorly constructed.
The takeaway
Current trends of wide leg, light fabric pants, blouses, oversized blazers, and floral midi dresses, as well as blazers, can be plus sized, making this season easier to shop than some others. Both looseness and lightness, with a little structure, make a garment comfortable and flattering, as compared to fitted and boxy. Trends can help find affordable garments, but the key is as always the value, especially with the gap between perceived and actual body shape.