At Embody Women, we believe great style starts with great confidence — and that’s why we’ve connected with some of our favourite voices in the curvy fashion space to bring you real styling advice for real women. From layering tips to outfit confidence tricks, this article is packed with helpful insights from curvy fashion influencers and professional stylists who understand that style isn’t about size — it’s about self-expression, comfort, and knowing what works for you.
We asked each contributor a series of questions about autumn fashion, confidence, and their personal style journeys. Here’s what they had to say:
Chelsea Brice - Stylist
What are 3 styling tips you think every woman should know?
- Focus on understanding your body proportions and highlight the areas you love, e.g., your waist, décolletage or even your eyes.
- Embrace timeless pieces and choose quality over quantity to help build a strong wardrobe.
- Choose pieces that can be styled in multiple ways to maximise your outfit options.
What are your favourite colours or colour combos to wear this autumn?
Greens, browns and burgundy tied back with denim. I love how denim can make an outfit feel pulled together without giving it that “too serious” vibe.
What’s one item you think everyone should have in their wardrobe for autumn/winter?
A trans-seasonal jacket or coat. For example, a trench is light enough to wear through autumn but also great to layer up for winter.
What’s your go-to trick for instantly making an outfit feel more put together?
Accessorising. Adding the right earring or handbag can instantly elevate an outfit. Quite often, it’s the last item placed on that’s the first thing noticed.
How do you help clients find their own personal style?
I use a system that delves deep into each client’s personality, what's important to them, and how they want to feel in their clothing. We find four words that encapsulate this and create a mood board for visual inspiration. This helps clients develop a clear internal and visual reference for their style.
Nadia Baker - Curve Styling Content Creator
What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
A trench coat – it’s timeless and never goes out of style!
What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
A beautiful fitting dress, something that shows my waist and curves, and a pair of heels — and I can't go past a bright lip.
Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
Fashion is a feeling, so I always dress based on my mood that day! If I’m having a challenging body image day, I’m definitely reaching for light, floaty fabrics — most probably a cotton boho dress!
What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
All of them! I don’t believe in rules — fashion is supposed to be fun! It’s an extension of your personality, a way to explore and express yourself… like “dress-ups” for grown-ups!
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
My worth is not tied to my looks or my weight! Style is not reserved for a certain body type — you can embrace who you are at any size. And I am ENOUGH!
Victoria Rouru - Midsize Fashion & Beauty Creator
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
A blazer!
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
Simple dress and heels can dress you for any occasion.
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
I look for inspiration by following women who share similar style and body shape. It's important to follow people you genuinely can resonate with to find inspiration from.
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
"Overdressed" or "Too Dressed Up" shouldn't even be a thing! I say dress every day like it's your last!
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
Rock every outfit like Carrie Bradshaw did without fear of judgement. People look for inspiration and you will be one someday.
Jessica Lucy - Curve Model & Creator
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
Denim! It’s versatile, timeless, and effortlessly cool. Whether it’s a classic jean or an oversized jacket, it layers perfectly and adds that laid-back edge to any outfit.
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
A power suit, definitely. It makes me feel strong, polished, and totally in control. The second I put it on, it’s like—“okay world, try me.” Instant boss energy.
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
Go back to your basics! Start with a staple outfit you know you love and feel good in. Then switch things up with accessories to make it feel fresh and fun. It’s all about building on what already works for you.
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
That you need to be a certain size to wear something! Honestly, that myth is long gone. Fashion is all about expressing yourself, no matter your shape or size. Wear what makes you feel good and confident!
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
Wear what makes you feel like you, not what you think you’re supposed to wear or what is deemed ‘flattering’. Style and body confidence aren’t about fitting in; they’re about owning your presence. The sooner you stop dressing to shrink or hide and start dressing to express, the more free and confident you’ll feel.
Erin Emery - Curve Model & Body Positivity Advocate
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
Knowing what works for my body means I wear a lot of fitted skirts and dresses. This year I’ve invested in a quality pair of ankle boots. They are versatile and flattering, particularly with mid-length skirts and dresses.
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
It’s black, it’s fitted, it makes the most of the things I love about my body—scoop neckline, fitted arms, beautiful firm material, maybe some ruching on the midsection.
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
I rarely have 'nothing fits' days because I’ve filled my wardrobe with options that I know work for my body. Even when my head says otherwise, I choose outfits that make me feel my best. My tips:
- Get to know what works for your body.
- Invest in items that suit you but work for different occasions (I have nine versions of an LBD!).
- On 'nothing fits' days, choose the outfit you know looks amazing!
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
The idea that a colour doesn’t “suit” you is crazy. Wear whatever makes you feel good in that moment. And tall women absolutely should wear heels!
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
Here are my top 3 tips:
- You are not like everyone else, so don’t try to dress like them.
- Don’t avoid outfits that make you look incredible just to make someone else more comfortable.
- Find brands that make the most of your beautiful body and invest in them.
Em – Curve Fashion Model
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
I am a big fan of cardigans! I love how cosy they are during the seasonal change.
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
A mini or midi dress with thick stockings and chunky boots. Comfort is key to confidence!
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
I’ll revert back to long activewear with a baggy top. It’s a prompt to move my body during the day, which helps me reset mentally and physically.
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
Sneakers and dresses! Some people dislike it, but I’m all for comfort.
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
Wear whatever makes you feel good. Fashion is about expressing yourself, and feeling lost in your style just means you’re on the journey to discovering something new!
Kathryn Draper - Curve Model
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
A well-fitted trench coat. It’s a classic piece that adds warmth without feeling bulky and every capsule wardrobe needs one!
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
A matching two-piece set—whether a linen co-ord in summer or a tailored power suit in winter. Add gold accessories and you’re instantly elevated and sleek.
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
Throw on wide-leg jeans with heels or boots, a neutral-coloured top, and a blazer. That extra layer helps me feel secure and polished when I’m not in the mood for fitted styles.
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
Following fashion trends! I believe in timeless capsule wardrobes with high-quality pieces that mix and match beautifully.
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
Dress for your curves! Don’t just follow your friends—find brands that understand your body and help you feel confident instead of invisible.
Jade Sargon - Personal Stylist & Image Consultant
1. What are 3 styling tips you think every woman should know?
- Get to know your body—what you love, and what areas you feel less confident about.
- Fit and fabric are key.
- Don’t be fixated on size.
2. What are your favourite colours or colour combos to wear this autumn?
I’m loving burgundy right now and starting to explore chocolate tones… but I’ll always come back to classic black.
3. What’s one item you think everyone should have in their wardrobe for autumn/winter?
A great winter jacket or coat. Whether it’s a trench or a wool overcoat, it’s a seasonal staple that transforms any outfit.
4. What’s your go-to trick for instantly making an outfit feel more put together?
Accessories! Shoes, jewellery, and bags can transform any basic outfit into something elevated and stylish.
5. How do you help clients find their own personal style – and what advice would you give someone who’s still figuring theirs out?
I start with a style consultation. Most people already have an idea of the styles they’re drawn to — classic, colourful, edgy. I help refine that based on their lifestyle and wardrobe needs, so they build a cohesive and personal look that feels effortless.
Mae-Lee - Curve Model
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
A pair of high-waisted denim jeans, always my go-to!
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
A cute floral mini dress paired with a denim jacket and boots or sneakers for a more casual look. It’s perfect for transitional seasons.
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
A wrap dress—comfortable and easy. Or a denim skirt and tee. Simple yet stylish.
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
“Pink and red should never be seen without a colour in between.” Honestly, it’s my absolute favourite colour combination!
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
As my mum always said—it’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear it! Confidence shines from within, and when you shine, the world sees your glow.
Suzanne Stevens - Fashion & Beauty Lover
1. What’s one autumn staple you can’t live without this season?
Sweater vests! Perfect for popping over summer dresses or button-ups to keep you warm without drowning in layers.
2. What’s one outfit or look that always makes you feel confident?
I have a green oversized plisse set that I love. Perfect for days when I feel blah — the slouchy fit makes me feel very cool and comfortable.
3. Do you have any go-to tips for dressing when you’re having a “nothing fits” day?
I keep a few oversized dresses that I can wear belted or loose depending on how I feel. I know they look good and can be styled in so many ways, so I’m sorted no matter how I feel.
4. What’s a fashion “rule” you think was made to be broken?
I’m moving away from the “an outfit must be flattering to be good” mentality. Flattering is just code for thin, and I’m not thin—so why should my goal be to look like something I’m not? A great outfit adds volume, clings to flesh, shows your arms—what matters is how it makes you feel, not how small it makes you look.
5. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self about style or body confidence, what would it be?
No advice! Any styling mistakes and confidence knocks taught me to be who I am now. She’ll figure it out on her own.
Emelia Morris - Stylist
1. What are 3 styling tips you think every woman should know?
-
Prioritise fit, feel, and fabric.
When I talk about fit, I’m not talking about your size; I’m talking about understanding your natural shape and dressing in a way that works with your silhouette. Feel is just as important — if you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it shows. And fabric matters more than we realise. Think about how something feels on your skin — does it move with you, feel breathable, sit comfortably? That’s what you want. -
Understand your proportions.
Styling isn’t about changing your shape; it’s about working with it. Pay attention to things like where your tops hit, the rise of your pants, or how much volume you’re wearing at once. These little proportion tweaks make a big difference in how your outfits come together. -
Repeat outfits — but style them differently.
You don’t need a new outfit for every occasion. The trick is learning how to restyle what you already own. That could mean swapping the shoes, layering a shirt underneath a dress, or adding a different accessory. Repeating outfits isn’t a bad thing; it’s a sign you know your wardrobe and how to make it work for you.
2. What are your favourite colours or colour combos to wear this autumn?
I’m loving the depth of chocolate brown; it feels grounded, a little luxe, and a fresh shift from black. I love it styled head to toe for a tonal moment, or paired with unexpected softness like sky blue or buttery cream. It’s one of those shades that does the talking.
3. What’s one item you think everyone should have in their wardrobe for autumn/winter?
A beautiful coat or trench — the kind you can throw over the most basic outfit and instantly feel like the main character. Outerwear does the heavy lifting in colder months, so it’s worth investing in one that’s warm, well-structured, and works back with your wardrobe.
4. What’s your go-to trick for instantly making an outfit feel more put together?
Balance your proportions — it’s the quickest way to take an outfit from "something’s off" to “this works.”
Sometimes it’s the tiniest tweaks that make all the difference: half-tucking a top, cuffing your sleeves, adjusting the rise of your jeans from low rise to mid or high rise, or switching the shoe. When the silhouette feels balanced on your shape, the whole look just clicks, even if it’s made up of simple basics.
5. How do you help clients find their own personal style – and what advice would you give someone who’s still figuring theirs out?
I always start by asking my clients how they want to feel in their clothes — confident, relaxed, bold, creative — and we build from there. I look at their lifestyle, their shape, what’s working in their current wardrobe (and what’s not), and help them reconnect with their style rather than dressing for trends.
If you’re still figuring it out, pay attention to what outfits you reach for on repeat, and why they work. Try saving photos of styles that catch your eye, then look for patterns in colour, cuts, and mood. Your style doesn’t have to be one thing; it just has to feel like you.
Whether you're building your autumn capsule or just looking for that one outfit that makes you feel amazing on a “nothing fits” day — we hope these words from our incredible community leave you feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to take on the season with style.
Stay confident. Stay you. 💫