4 plus-size fashion 'rules' to ignore completely

Never wear white after Labour Day! Never mix gold and silver! However arbitrary, many fashion no-nos can linger in your mind when you're scanning your closet. Plus-size style blogger Nicolette Mason — who recently launched a super-stylish dress line with Addition Elle — debunks dated myths of full-figure fashion and replaces them with some foolproof dressing advice.

Myth: Button-up tops don’t work on a larger bust. Anyone in possession of fuller cups is familiar with the dreaded puckering and pulling that happens when they sport a button-up top. The solution? “The key is a single diagonal dart on the side of the shirt," says Mason. "It helps create a flattering shape that lays flat across the chest.” A little stretch in the garment helps with fit and movement.

Myth: Dainty details aren’t flattering. Wrong again. Mason's Addition Elle collection snubs this notion with plenty of delicate lace detailing along the straps and necklines, and playful peek-a-boo panels along her hems. “There are so many LBDs out there — this is how I made them a little more special,” says Mason.

Myth: Your arms must be covered. Fact-check: Half of Mason's collection is sleeveless, as she was adamant about having options that celebrate every body type and size. Take this cape dress — it's a clever example of how a feather-light piece of fabric can offer coverage while still allowing you to show off your arms.

Myth: Neutrals are the safest, most slimming bet.  Mason loves the colour pink — even her wedding dress was rose-gold. (“I believe there is a shade of pink for every person,” she says.) Even if you haven't nailed down your signature hue, Mason suggests incorporating colour into your wardrobe to enhance your skin tone and highlights your natural features. “Black will always be a staple of my wardrobe," she says, "but it’s nice to have variation, especially in the plus-size world.”

Check out our picks from Nicolette's collection here:

Nicolette Mason

The "Natalie" taffeta dress, $195, Addition Elle.