Back in the old days, men liked a girl with a little meat on her bones; it showed that she was healthy and good wife material. Real men still like their women healthy looking, that hasn't changed. But somehow, a few so-called "fashion experts" got on this "you-can't-be-too-thin" kick, and suddenly pouty models with lips thicker than their waists were "in". Being a normal-sized woman got you labeled as plus sized, and it was hard to find clothing that fit. At long last, a few designers have come to realize that real women want clothing that's sexy, fun, and comfortable, from the basics on up to killer formal wear. What this means is you simply don't have to settle for the same frumpy old styles Great Aunt Myrtle wears -- you can have that sexy prom dress you've always wanted.

A few pointers

The next time you're shopping for plus size bras, remember that beauty's all about self-esteem. Sure, guys like to look at the skinny girls, but they're really impressed by the ladies who love themselves. As with so many things, perception is reality. If you'd like to maximize your image and look a bit slimmer, try a few of the fashion tips that your mom already knows about.

Black, of course, is naturally slimming, and so are vertical (up-and-down) stripes -- never wear horizontal ones. For the same reason, belts aren't usually a good idea (unless you wear them well below the hips). If you can stand them (and they're murder on your feet) high heels can also help you look taller and slimmer. Long, dangly scarves can also have a slimming effect. Long hair serves a similar purpose -- short hair, though easier to manage, may make your face look rounder. Long skirts are also de rigueur, but only if they're longer than they are wide. Finally, consider the possibility of wearing outfits that are monochromatic, or all in one color (besides black, we mean). Just because it's one color doesn’t mean it has to be boring -- you can vary the fabrics and combine a few of these other tips until you find the mix that's right for you.

Exercise, exercise

Even if you find yourself with a little extra padding, what really matters is your physical conditioning -- and nothing keeps you healthier than regular exercise. For this, you'll need some good sports bras to keep the process from becoming too uncomfortable. While you're at it, be on the lookout for a good jogging suit so you can complete your ensemble. You're sure to find a more attractive array of options than you expected, in a variety of colors, styles, and fabrics. Now that women have finally started to rebel against the narrow range of sizes generally offered, clothing manufacturers have started to respond with everything a plus size teen needs, from undergarments to T-shirts and jeans to school uniforms and everything else. Unless you are battling big health issues because of your weight, why fret about dieting all the time to go down a size or two, when you can just get clothes that fit comfortably? It's a no-brainer, if you ask us.

Published with permission (FCDMInc)