Sacha Walters, Staff Reporter

Left: The kariza, which can be wrapped 100 ways, is a stylish off-the-shoulder number here. Right: Cocktails anyone? This fun and flirty tube-top dress allows the full figured woman to show off her beautiful shoulders. - photos by Peta-Gaye Clachar/StaffPhotographer

Curves ahead but there is no need to be afraid. A woman's curves are her assets and with the fashion industry catering more to the fuller-figured woman, they need not fear that frumpy or boring are going to be the order of the day.

Finding a size that fits is usually problematic for a plus-size woman. However, some stores across the island are in business just to alleviate this issue. Other stores make sure to carry plus-sizes to cater to every Jamaican woman.

Kerry Kay's Plus Size, in St. Andrew, carries sizes from extra large (XL) to triple (XXXL). They also carry jeans lines, one such line being PZI, which are specially designed for full-bodied women.

Model: Kameka Thomas, Champs model.

Clothes courtesy of Kerry Kay's Plus Size, 11 South Avenue.

Tips courtesy of www.fashion.about.com

Feedback: Sacha.Walters@gleanerjm.com

• Accentuating the positives •

1 Don't avoid sleeveless garments, especially with evening wear, as a shawl, sheer top or bolero jacket can be used to show as little or as much skin as you want.

2 Baggy clothes do not make you look slimmer. Body-conscious clothes that hint at your curves, without being clingy or tight, are the most flattering.

3 Darker colours, black, charcoal grey and navy, should be the foundation of your wardrobe.

4 Use undergarment foundations like all-in-one shapers or long-line bras and control top pantyhose to give a smooth look.

5 Accentuate your best features, for example, showing off shapely legs with a knee-length skirt.

6 Choose fabrics that don't cling, avoiding stiff or bulky textures.

7 Make sure you scale your accessories — from your handbag to your earrings — to your size.