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.

You've probably heard the age-old "wisdom" that you need to dress in dark colors like black and gray. Forget that piece of advice! The cut of clothes is always more important than color when it comes to flattering apparel for your body type. A well-cut, bright-colored outfit will always look better than a bulky, unflattering outfit in black. Look at the shape of your outfit while it is still hanging on the rack. It shouldn't look flat and shapeless. The clothing should be tapered, especially at the waistline and hips. No matter how tempted you may be to trade comfort for style, don't do it""you will not feel your best in an uncomfortable outfit. And you need to feel great to look great!

Not all body types look good in the same style of clothes. Oftentimes, "plus-sized" lines of apparel are only oversized versions of their garments for smaller women. The sad reality is that these clothes were designed with the smaller woman in mind, and frequently do not have the same flattering effect on the plus size girl. Stand in front of your mirror and decide what features you'd like to accentuate, rather than what you'd like to disguise. If you have voluptuous curves, pick styles of clothing that enhance them. Wide-hipped women should opt for curvy A-line skirts rather than broomstick skirts. When shopping for skirts, be conscious of hem length. Skirts that fall at your calf will shorten the appearance of your legs, but floor- or knee-length skirts will flatter.

When going out in the winter, remember that layering is your friend. One way to stay warm and look great is to layer several thinner tops on top of one another. Avoid the bulky sweater or pull over and instead layer a long sleeved stretch top under a snappy short sleeved shirt for casual wear. The thinner layers will cling to you to provide better warmth while maintaining an attractive silhouette. Look for clothes that mix and match well, and you'll have plenty of options all winter.

Just because you are shopping for plus-sized clothing does not require that you select clothing that does not make you look attractive. It is possible to choose clothing that is attractive and that makes you feel good; it just takes some effort.