Plus-sized women, like women everywhere, love fashion and want to look great. Unfortunately, there are still too many size 14+ women who are afraid to break the unwritten “fat mom” fashion rules. We’ve been told for years by fashion magazines, clothing brands, and even sometimes family members and friends to make sure to dress in ways that are “flattering,” which is often code for “hide the parts that jiggle.” That’s just one of the many negative rules out there like don’t wear anything tight. Stick to basic black. Never show a hint of belly. Or arms. Or, heaven forbid, thighs that touch. Bathing suits must be one piece and lingerie should be strictly utilitarian.
But here’s the thing: it is 2020 and it is PAST TIME to start breaking those rules. It’s time for fat moms to start following a different set of rules. These new rules are simple: wear anything that makes a body feel fierce or sexy or happy. Done!
For some rule-breaking inspiration, we turned to Lane Bryant to find 17 examples of looks and pieces that celebrate all bodies. These are the new “fat mom” rules and we are here for it! Spoiler alert: We are pretty obsessed with No. 12
New Rule: Plus-Size Underwear Can Be Sexy
Every great outfit starts with some great underwear and a supportive and well-fitting bra! This option, which goes up to size H cup sizes, is a perfect everyday bra that is pretty, especially with a pair of matching panties.
New Rule: No Sleeves, No Problem
From tank tops to camisoles to dressy options, there are so many ways to show off the any pair of arms. This animal stripe halter option is a perfect option on its own (so cute with jeans) or dressed up with a cardigan for work.
New Rule: Flaunt Those Curves in Well-Fitting Jeans
Those with a classic hourglass figure will love this option that is made for women with a smaller waist and thicker hips and thighs. A dark rinse skinny jeans is great for showing off those curves and a popping booty! A must-have piece for any closet.
New Rule: Show Off Those Legs
Va va voom! This classic pencil skirt is stretchy with an elastic waistband but still structured thanks to the ponte fabric. The zipper detail is a great way to control how much leg to show, depending on if this is a work skirt or a date night skirt (we love that it can be both).
New Rule: Go for Not-So-Basic Black
The old rules said that plus size women should wear black because it is “slimming.” We say that fat moms should go for black when they want to stand out, like this awesome sequined jumpsuit. It’s black but anything but basic, especially paired with a great metallic heel!
New Rule: Leggings Are for Everyone
Yes, fat women can rock sleek leggings and yes, leggings ARE pants! And, no, this doesn’t need to be paired with a long shirt for booty coverage. These faux leather leggings are super sexy for working out or dressed up for going out.
New Rule: Say Yes to Sexy Lingerie
Pssst … here’s a secret (that shouldn’t be a secret) … plus size women like to have sex, too! One fun way to get in the mood is to slip into something sexy, like this red lace chemise! A little elastic under the bust adds some support and a nice cleavage boost.
New Rule: Bling Bling, Baby!
If the old rules of “fat mom” fashion said that plus-size women should try to dress so nobody notices their body, the new rules say it is time to shine! This sequin top is perfect for the holiday season, date night, or any other occasion when bringing out the bling makes sense!
New Rule: Horizontal Stripes for the Win
It is past time to forget that old rule of avoiding horizontal stripes! Stripes of all colors and widths are fun and classic, especially in a three-quarter length sleeve with vibrant colors and a button detail, like this embellished swing tee.
New Rule: Sleek is Sexy
A curve-hugging sheath dress in velvet? Yes, please! This dress also features a sexy mesh yoke, perfect for highlight the clavicle or neck. This would be classy choice for a holiday party, when it is safe to have holiday parties again (so maybe save for next year)!
New Rule: Play With Pattern
No woman should be afraid of playing with patterns. All solid, all the time is boring! One 2020 way to explore pattern is to add some fun to your mask wardrobe with these plaid options. Wearing masks is the right thing to do, so why not look cute while doing it?
New Rule: Wide Shoes Can Be Sexy
There is no reason to not have fun with adding sexy shoes to an outfit, even for the curvy moms who need a wide width shoe. These ankle booties add spice to any outfit and have extra padding because limping in painful shoes isn’t a cute look.
New Rule: Work Clothes Don’t Need to be Frumpy
It doesn’t matter if a woman is working in an office or just wanting to look put together for yet another Zoom meeting, a great jacket is an essential wardrobe option. We love that this is a twist on the traditional blazer that is soft, easy, and elegant.
New Rule: Stay Warm While Looking Great
Baby, it’s cold outside! But this jacket is just the thing for staying toasty warm and looking good at the same time. It comes in three fashion forward colors. We love Charcoal, as shown, or the deep red option of Winetasting.
New Rule: Shoulders Are for Showing Off!
A pair of strong shoulders and a sexy clavicle are highlighted in this flirty off-the-shoulder ribbed sweater, available in red or black. This would be perfect paired with some skinny jeans and an animal print bootie, like the pair featured earlier in this post!
New Rule: Wear Shorts Year-Round
Confession: We love a romper! Not only should shorts be a part of every wardrobe, especially when it is warm out, but rompers are such an easy way to look effortlessly pulled together. Adding tights and jacket to this romper makes it a great fall or winter option as well.
New Rule: Cozy Can Also Be Fashionable
Let’s be real: Sometimes we just want to be warm and cozy! But that doesn’t mean frumpy, boring, or basic. This poncho is great when paired with skinny jeans and knee-high boots, maybe as a family photo option.
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, CafeMom.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.