Every woman can look beautiful if she follows certain tips to improve her appearance. This is just as true for plus size women as it is for everyone else. As we’ve learned from the beauty of celebrities like Delta Burke and Oprah, there’s more to being beautiful than just your size.

A far cry from the frumpy, tent-style garments of a few years ago, top designers now create trendy plus-size tops in a variety of colors, fabrics, and sizes. A stylish, well-fitting plus-size top turns a failed outfit into a winner—for less than the cost of fine dining. Fashionable tops are a great way to accentuate positive areas, like your neck or bust, while minimizing negative areas. To help you find the size of the fashion top that best fits you, keep the following tips in mind.

The most basic rule to keep in mind when choosing plus size fashion tops is this: think vertical, not horizontal. “Thinking vertically” means looking for patterns that draw the eye up and down, from top to bottom. Two easy ways to achieve this effect are vertical stripes and bold A-line buttons down the front of a blouse. These vertical patterns give you the appearance of being slimmer.

It is important to choose the correct size to fit your body. Try to find trendy tops that contour your body and show off your curves. Do not choose trendy tops that are too tight, as they will show off the problem area and make you feel very self-conscious. However, you don’t want trendy tops that are too baggy. Being plus size doesn’t mean you have to hide your figure. If you choose the right size, a fashionable blouse can show your figure in a very elegant and stylish way.

Classic designs and basic cuts are best when selecting the right plus size top because they will be most flattering on our fuller figures. Even if it’s true that black can make you look slimmer, there are plenty of other color options that will look great with both your skin tone and body type, so be sure to experiment with colors as well.

It’s okay to show some skin. A fashionable low-cut V-neck top can elongate the neck, emphasize the bust and highlight the face. Unless you have a firm midsection, a bare stomach is definitely a no-no. Avoid trendy plus size tops that have heavy prints. Ornate prints tend to make plus-size women appear larger. Plus size women should also avoid trendy animal print tops. However, accessorizing with an animal print scarf adds a touch of class.

Creating a modern look can be achieved with the right shoes, bag or other accessories such as scarves. Blouses and jackets can be easily dressed up with a pin or brooch. Plus size tops are cost effective because they can be worn in various situations, either as part of a suit or just with pants. Looking good all season long is possible with the right fashion choices in the right size and color.