There are certain basic guidelines every women should observe when selecting clothing and accessories. You should first determine your basic body type and use this as a basis for making clothing choices. Just remember that these are general guidelines and not hard and fast rules. You must be the final judge of what looks best on you and also remember, that if a piece of clothing doesn't feel comfortable to you, then it doesn't matter how flattering or stylish it is!

Your first priority should be choosing clothing that is of high quality and is offered at a reasonable price. It's all about value. With these points in mind, below are several guidelines for selecting plus size clothing that will bring out the best in your individual body type:

1. Don't Let Clothing Hang Off Your Body

The entire point of new plus size clothing fashions today is the wide selection of great fitting styles for plus size women. Gone are the days of tent-like frocks and other unflattering garments. Of course, a lot depends on your size and body type, but you should be able to find clothing that flatters your figure without completely draping over you. Even a loose, flowing summer dress with short sleeves that reveals nicely tanned arms and well-turned ankles can be both extremely flattering and comfortable. Also consider loose tops such tunic tops.

2. Be Careful With Skin Tight Clothing

There's certainly no rule that says plus size women shouldn't wear tight clothing. It's really a matter of comfort -- even in petite sizes, skintight clothing can be uncomfortable. Spandex is a remarkable fabric and it is found in a lot of plus size clothing. A little give to a garment is a great thing. Ultimately it's up to you if you're comfortable going to the gym in Spandex tights or out to a club in a cat suit.

3. Consider High Waisted Dresses

A dress with a high waistline, sometimes referred to as an "empire waist", can greatly flatter your figure by making your waist appear much smaller. A wide range of dress styles from casual to formal are offered with empire waist lines. Decorative bodices and stripes below the bust line further accentuate the impression of a small waistline. They should be a part of every plus size womens wardrobe.

4. Be Careful With Swim Skirts

There are lots of great swimsuits to choose from in plus sizes. A common style in plus size swim wear is the swim skirt and swim dress. The swim skirt can draw attention away from your waist and rear, but this style also harkens back to swim fashions from the 1920s.

Often times a slimming one-piece suit can work very well depending on your size and body type. Where swim skirts can be effective is in 2-piece suits or tankinis.

5. Consider Wraps

If your upper arms are not as firm as you'd like you may wish to consider wearing cover-ups. Wraps and cover-ups are also a great way for adding a touch of elegance to formal wear and gowns and will also provide warmth to your shoulders on cool evenings. Remember that long sleeves can be very sexy in plus sizes!

By keeping this short list of plus size fashion tips in mind you can put together an amazing wardrobe for all seasons and occasions.