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Plus size upper body dressing advice for large stomach

2 replies

Easterchick02853 · 08/04/2026 13:07

Hi everyone

I am short and stumpy and hate the way I look. I am about to embark on a weight loss journey but am struggling with clothes for when the weather warms up to tide.me over. All of last years clothes aren't fitting me properly, they cling on the stomach.
I carry weight all over but particularly in my stomach. It is currently very large and I also have a hernia. Im talking 9 months pregnant large. I also have a large bum too . I am a size 26 uk.
What type of clothing is best for this shape? My legs are like treetruncks and I have cankles. I wont wear dresses or anything that shows the tops of my arms .
I currently wear leggings and jumpers in winter. Leggings and t shirts in summer. But im at the point where the size of t shirt im needing to buy look like night shirts

OP posts:
FartSock5000 · 08/04/2026 13:52

@Easterchick02853 I am sure you are a lovely lady who looks great despite the insecurities. Reach inward and find your confidence again.

The right clothes are going to help you find yourself and your inner glow again.

Start with a good bra that fits and lifts. This will help elongate your torso by lifting heavy boobs off your belly.

If you are an apple shape, remember that wearing baggy tops doesn't hide your big belly. This only tents you and gives you zero shape and can even make you look bigger.

It is okay to wear more form fitting clothes. If you wear dressy trousers then add a belt to cinch you in a bit and break up the silhouette. Team with a flowy blouse or shirt that is partially tucked (just at the front into where your belt buckle rests) leaving the rest loose. This is going to give you a longer line and break up the round shape you want to hide.

Jersey fabric is a hassle to iron but is heavy so it will skim you where you want but cling to you in the right places. Pair tunic tops with leggings (don't worry about tree trunk legs) and boots. The boots will hide those cankles and the slimmer fit will give your shape back.

Blazers, black slim fit jeans with belt and loose tops are great staples. Dressy but casual too. Suitable for work, going for drinks with friends or just out.

A-line maxi dresses are nice too. Go for the styles that hug your boob area then flow down. Maxi being to your ankles not above. Shirred styles are great for plus sizes. Team with bolero style cardigans or waist length denim/leather jackets. Don't wear long line jackets as this will make you look dumpy.

It can be so hard to go against your instinct to wear longer tops and jackets. Go for waist length because you want to break the visual of the round shape of your body and make it look like you are more hour glass figured.

Avoid small prints - go for larger printed fabrics instead. It's more trendy and flattering on bigger framed bodies.

If you do go for longer line blouses and shirts, choose the ones that have a drawstring waist or can hold a slim belt so you can pull in the fabric.

The key is to create shape where you don't have it. Think on what accessories you can wear that will do this - a corset, shapewear, belts with flashy buckles and jewellery to some extent.

Yours Clothing and SimplyBe have some nice pieces at reasonable prices.

user593 · 08/04/2026 14:05

I’d suggest having a look at Only and Vero Moda. The Carmoster t-shirt by Only is really nice, but they have a lot of nice things that should fit a 26 (I was a 26, now a 18/20 after starting WLI at the end of November). Good luck with your weight loss journey!

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