Article  Choosing the Right Costumes for Plus Size Sizzle Costumes for plus size men and women are extremely popular at Halloween, for costume parties because so many people are plus sized. Fortunately, there are more costumes available every year in plus sizes, but you still need to be careful when shopping for the right costume. While some companies offer lots of costumes in plus sizes that are exceptionally well made, others carry a minimal selection and don't put as much thought or detail into the few costumes they carry. If you're shopping for costumes for plus size, look for a company that specializes in plus sized costumes and accessories. They will not only have a better selection, they'll be more familiar with the special needs of plus size shoppers and offer the accessories and other details that make their costumes stand out from the crowd. Their costumes will be designed specifically made to work well on plus size men and women rather than simply being larger versions of standard sizes. If you're a plus size woman, you know that simply making a costume larger isn't enough; it has to work with your more womanly shape and your added height as well. When you begin shopping for costumes for plus sizes, pay attention to the details on the costume. These will give you a good idea of the quality of the costume and how well it will hold up. Are the seams even and tight? Are the trimmings securely sewn on or are they simply glued in place? Is the costume made from a sturdy, fabric such as cotton? Is there a bit of spandex included for a good fit? The fit is crucial when buying costumes for plus size. Don't base your purchase on your usual size. Costumes can vary a bit, and it's easier to take something in than it is to let something out. Check the length if you're particularly tall to make sure it will be long enough. If the costume is form fitting and you seem to be between sizes, it's best to go one size up. It will be a simple thing to take your costume in a bit, but you'll be disappointed if it's too tight to be comfortable. Not every plus size person has the same body shape. If you're looking at a costume that will hug your curves, take a look at the measurements. If you have an hourglass figure, you can probably stay true to your usual plus size. If you're more apple shaped or have heavier hips, gauge what size you need by the amplest part of your body. For men, keep in mind if you have a thicker waist you may want to move up a chest size to prevent straining around the midsection. If the costume is loosely fitting all over, it may simply run from XL to XXXL, but if the costume will fit at the shoulders, chest, waist and hips, pay attention to sizing charts. The more detailed the sizing chart, the better the fit will tend to be, particularly if you're accurate with your measurements. Don't guess – use a measuring tape and take your measurements while you're in the underwear or clothing you'll wear under your costume. If all else fails, talk to someone at the store or, if you're ordering online, call their customer service department. They'll be glad to help you determine the right size for you. When you've chosen the right size and style, costumes for plus size men and women will look great on you and accentuate your best features. Category Fashion Author WOA Member Add To Favorites Print This Article Email Article To A Friend Post Comments   Rate This Article (0) 1 - Poor2345 - Good678910 - Excellent Added On 20 January 2010