I figured I would post some of my photos. They're not cosplay, but I think they're a good example of how to use a larger proportioned body to your advantage.
I'm 5'8, and I weigh about 225/30 lbs. I'm a DD, with 45-38-48 measurements without a corset.

The corset and underwear ensemble I made for my steampunk costume. This baby pulls my waist in to a 33. It makes my natural proportions pop like a mo-fo (as my boyfriend says XD), and it also helps support my back and large bosoms. I don't know about you, but being able to walk around con without back pain is fantastic.

One of my rules of costuming:
If you have an a**, ACCENTUATE IT!
mrgreen While it's kind of hard to wear a bustle when you're not doing steampunk or historical costumes/cosplay or types of lolita, it can really make skirts pop, even if it's just a little bit of padding. Not only does it work for big ladies with big butts, it works for those who lack in the bum department!
(Note. My a** is actually almost as big as that bustle. No joke.)
So, what do you get when you add all this together?

That's right. You get awesome.
Now I wanna see some more plus-sized cosplay!
4laugh