Clothes shopping can be a chore, and even more so if you're a plus sized woman. No matter what size you are, developing a shopping strategy before you hit the mall is a good idea. If you are looking for clothes that fit well and you're a plus size, this goes double for you! So take a look at the few tips below and make sure that you're a best dressed gal this winter.

If you want to update your style and improve the way you look then knowing what clothes work for you is the first lesson to learn. Even though many magazines and news outlets may report that sticking to dark colors is the way to go, their misinformed. The most important aspect of your clothing is the cut. So go beyond your basic dark colors of black, grays and browns. A bright orange suit with a great cut is just as sexy as a black suit. For best fit look for items that taper to your body type, usually around the waist and hips accentuates the curves of most women. Don't forget that no matter what you wear it should be comfortable and you should feel confident in it.

Being a plus size woman doesn't mean your choice of fashions is non existent, instead it is all about knowing what looks good on you. Avoid manufactures and brands that just produce larger sizes of clothing that they designed for smaller bodies. These clothing usually fits but in no way flatters the plus size frame. Stand in front of the mirror and look at your body. What are your best features? What are your worst features? The next time you shop look for clothing use this information to understand what will look good on you. Women with curvy hourglass shapes and fuller hips need to avoid narrow skirts that make the hips look larger and calf length skirts that shorten the knee. The best lengths are above the knee or floor length depending on personal style.

Keep in mind that wearing layers of clothing is a good idea when it's cold. Wearing several lightweight tops together is a good means to look attractive while you keep yourself from being cold. Substitute an elasticized top with long sleeves and a jazzy looking blouse with short sleeves for the bulkiness of an over sized knit top when you're going for a casual look. These less bulky layers will give you a slimmer appearance and keep you warmer. Find garments that all go well together for lots of possible looks during the wintertime season.

Keep in mind that shopping for plus sized clothing does not mean you have to settle for ugly designs or ill-fitting garments. If you put in enough time and effort you will find clothes that will make you look great.