LiveLifeMove – Clothing for Movement
We want to share 5 great tips for buying plus size exercise clothing with you! Every body is unique and every body will be moving in different ways during the day. At LiveLife Move we create movement clothing to give confidence & comfort to a variety of real bodies.
There are a lot of different words used to describe body shape, size and height. Whatever category you fall into it’s important to have movement clothing that is flattering and fits you. If your body is wide, large or bigger in certain areas finding great movement clothing can be challenging.
What you need to know when buying plus size exercise clothing…
To follow is a list of the 5 most important things to do when buying plus size exercise clothing. LiveLife Move has put a lot of thought and care into our design process and we want to share some of the things we have learnt along the way.
1. You Must Measure
Correct fit is crucial for movement. Clothing that is too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort, while clothing that is too loose may feel bulky, cause chafing or hang and impede your movement. Clothing that fits correctly will allow to move freely and move with you.
Follow all the instructions given, take your time and check your results. Width as well as length measurements should be done. When you understand your sizing make sure you choose that size for all garments that are base or mid layers – don’t be tempted to go up a size for more room, trust that we have done the work of making sure the garment will fit you in a flattering way. See our Measure for a Great Fit Guide
2. Choose Comfortable Fabric
The type of fabric used in clothing plays a significant role in comfort. It’s important to note that comfort is subjective, and what feels comfortable for one person may not be the same for another. Experimenting with different fabrics, styles, and brands can help you discover what works best for your personal comfort needs. If you want to learn more about the fabrics we use at LiveLife Move please see our Fabric Guide
Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk are breathable and light, allowing air to circulate and regulating your temperature.
Synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon can be less breathable but offer other benefits like moisture-wicking and stretchiness. The fabric should feel pleasant against the skin and not cause irritation or itching.
Fabric with a degree of stretch or flexibility, with elastane or spandex blended into the fabric, can provide comfort by allowing freedom of movement and accommodating the body’s natural curves.
The softness of the fabric can greatly impact comfort. Fabrics with a smooth texture and a pleasant feel against your skin are generally more comfortable to wear and move in.
The weight of the fabric can influence comfort and feel. Lighter fabrics may feel more comfortable in warmer weather, while heavier fabrics can provide warmth and coziness in cooler climates.
3. Choose Performance Fabric
Breathability: Fabric that allows air to circulate around the body helps regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. Breathable fabrics and designs, such as loose weaves or mesh panels, promote ventilation and moisture evaporation.
Stretch and Flexibility: Fabric with a degree of stretch or flexibility, such as elastane or spandex blended into the fabric, will provide freedom of movement. It also gives support to the body, gives structure/rebound to the garment, and increases the lifespan or durability.
Moisture-Wicking: Fabrics with moisture-wicking properties draw sweat away from the skin, keeping you dry and preventing clamminess. This is particularly beneficial during physical activities or in warm weather.
4. Design Features that Create Space/Allow Movement
To make clothing fit over our bodies curves and angles a range of techniques can be used. The key is to create space or ease in these places and over moving joints, this gives you non restricted movement and comfort. Features or words to look for are splits, openings, flare, curving seams, non chaffing, relaxed fit, drape, gathering, pleats.
Every garment has a distinct shape or silhouette that may include features that suit plus size bodies. Again look for ease, space & length. Is the clothing fitted or compressed onto the body in areas you are comfortable with? Does it have length or height where you need it?
To help you gain an idea of fit we try to show our movement clothing on a range of models with different body shapes and heights. Real people with bodies that represent how women actually look.
5. Design Features that Match Your Body Shape & Height
Your body will be unique to you but there are common characteristics about bodies that allow us to match them to a certain shape. What shape are you?
Some of us will instantly recognise our bodies as one shape while others will feel that our body does not fit fully into one of the defined shapes. Different shapes may apply to different areas of your body. If you feel you are more than one shape focus on the one you most identify with but also be aware of how the other shape/s may affect your choices.
Height is also a consideration when it comes to clothing. How a garment looks and feels will be different on different heights. We recommend taking into account your height as well as your shape, and how that effects the look and feel of movement clothing on your body.
Please read our comprehensive Guide on Body Shape & Height
Understanding your body shape & height will help when you are making plus size exercise clothing choices.
Last words…
Our advice is meant to help make your plus size exercise clothing shopping easier. This should mean fewer returns or delays because you receive a garment that is a flattering fit for your body shape or height and is ready to be worn. Learn more about our Shop with Confidence promise.