Article  Fitting Plus Size Costumes Plus size costumes can be difficult to fit.  Often manufacturers take a one size fits all approach; which, of course, as we all know, isn't always the case.  Below are a few tips for getting a costume that fits you the way it should. Know your size.  When ordering plus size costumes, it is important to be sure you know what size you wear.  This may actually be more challenging than you think!  Many manufacturers differ dramatically in how they size their clothes.  If you check the tags on the clothes in your closet, chances are you will find at least a couple of different sizes that fit you equally well. To determine your size, make note of which sizes seem to occur most frequently in your closet.  The general rule is that it is better to err on the side of something being too large than too small, especially since it is more common for certain clothing manufacturers to run small, meaning that you will require a larger size with that manufacturer. Measure yourself.  It is not often, but some retailers who sell plus size costumes online actually do provide measurements to help you get the right fit.  Even if they don't, though, knowing your measurements can help you to find the right size.  If the costume retailer's site doesn't include a sizing chart, there is a general size chart located at http://fashion.about.com/blpluschart.htm.  This chart gives measurement ranges and their general size equivalents.  The chart is not exact, because manufacturers tend to vary so much in size, but it can at least provide some assistance in determining your size. Pulling out the measuring tape may seem rather intimidating, so here are a few tips on how to measure.  First of all, how tight you pull the tape can make a difference.  You want it snug over your skin, but not so tight that it cinches your skin inward.  Remember, this will be how tightly the clothes fit over your skin, and you don't want your costume to be restrictive! Finally, when measuring for costume fit, be sure to measure the appropriate places.  The bust measurement is taken at the fullest part of the bust, which should be around the shoulder blades in the back.  The waist measurement is taken wherever your natural waist is, i.e., the narrowest part of your waist.  The hips are measured where they are the widest; on most women this is around eight inches lower than the waist, but this can vary from person to person. Consider the style of the costume.  Sometimes plus size costumes are designed just like wider versions of the same costumes that come in smaller sizes.  Unfortunately, not all of these styles look good on everyone (the same goes for the smaller sizes).  Keep this in mind, and if you know or suspect that a certain style is not going to look good on you, don't wear it! Another thing to think about when looking at the style of the costume is whether your body shape and size is anything like the model's.  Remember, manufacturers and retailers like to show their clothing worn by models who flatter the outfit, so they are most likely going to choose the body type that looks best in the outfit.  If your body doesn't look anything like the model's, think about the style of the costume and whether it would really work for your body type. Ordering plus size costumes online can be nerve wracking if you are worried about getting the right size, but it also provides the best selection.  It is, unfortunately, very difficult to find a wide selection of costumes in stores, especially in plus sizes.  But by utilizing these tips, you can find a costume that fits you well without sacrificing variety and choice. Category Shopping Author Andy Cummings Add To Favorites Print This Article Email Article To A Friend Post Comments   Rate This Article (0) 1 - Poor2345 - Good678910 - Excellent Added On Wed Jan 20th,2010