The following is a guest post by Sara Johnson.

2007/2008 styling for plus size tops follows the lead of the winter season’s stars; a celebration of curves, enhanced with vibrant colors, touches of sparkle and sumptuous fabrics. Gone are the over-sized tees and knits of old, replaced by kimono tops, embellished empire waisted designs and sexy knits crafted carefully to enhance feminine curves. Au currant runway inspired designs are finally being produced in a realistic range of sizes and are receiving a gracious welcome from the fashion loving plus size community.

The kimono style top, with wider sleeves, an a-line hem, v-neck and empire waist tie back is the natural choice for enhancing the curvy frame. Wide sleeves, in short, or three-quarter length make the arms appear thinner and create an upside down triangle shape; wider at the shoulder, narrower at the waist. The empire tie back waist highlights the smallest part of most women’s torso, the area approximately 5 inches below the base of the bust. Not the true waist, which often carries extra padding. The slight a-line hem of the kimono softly falls over tummy to the hips, never clinging. When fitted correctly, the kimono should flow softly over the bust, cinching at the empire waist and flowing softly to the hem, creating a beautiful hour-glass shape. Try a traditional silk Asian motif, or vibrant mod pattern for season current style.

The embellished, empire waisted design flatters for many of the same reasons the kimono does; the littlest part of the torso, the empire waist is highlighted and the top flows softly into an a-line hem, elongating the body and flattering the tummy and hips. Jeweled medallion detailing, beading and Grecian goddess inspired embellishments at the empire waist are gorgeous design trends finally available in curve friendly sizes. Such bold embellishments appear to be made for the plus-size frame; statement medallions and beading are proportionately correct for the curvy frame. Look for a narrow v-neck to elongate the neck and flatter the bust, a wide v-neck may show off ample decollete but in turn makes the torso appear wider and chose fabric that flows softly over the body in a solid color for a flattering, statement making look!

Sumptuous knits in sexy shapes have replaced over sized designs as the article of choice for curvy women. Quality fabrics in beautiful shapes are wonderful, comfy alternatives to the basic tee. Chose a thick fabric with plenty of stretch to best enhance your curves, in your favorite shape of choice. Empire waist designs, with a tie back are always flattering, narrow v-necks and wrap designs make the most of a curvy frame as well. Play with vibrant color; these basics are the perfect choices for trying out seasonal color trends. Avoid thin fabrics in overly clingy shapes; a good knit should always drape the body flatteringly.

With each passing year, fashion current plus size options become increasingly mainstream much to the delight of the curvy community. Winter/Spring, 2007/2008 designers follow the trend of embracing the true feminine form, crafting designs that enhance and flatter all shapes and sizes. With a plethora of style options, self-expression via fashion is finally feasible regardless of size!

Who is Sara Johnson?
Sara Johnson is the co-owner and product buyer at Velvetsiren.com – A posh plus size clothing boutique for curvy girls. She currently works as a fashion consultant for curvy women worldwide. Come see what everyone is talking about!