Plus Size Fashion

There's probably one thing that all plus-size women and their wardrobes have in common. It's the predominance of black clothing. It's funny. Somewhere along the way, we all seem to have bought into the idea that black is SLIMMING - and into the further idea that we needed to be "slimmed" by our clothing. An annoying concept for those of us who LIKE our curves. (And who see the irony in skinny women "enhancing" curves after starving to be slender.) Why can't we all just get along??? LOL. But, there is one thing that women of ALL sizes need in their wardrobe, and that's the perfect little black dress. Why? Because that one garment can take you from your daytime doldrums to your night-time fantasies within seconds.

But I didn't start this article to write all that. I started this article to talk about my favorite topic: the plus size little black dress.

First of all, make sure that you HAVE a few little black dresses on hand, and make sure they're stylish and in good condition. Sometimes we wear them so often, that they've simply lost their pizzazz. If you need one or two new ones, be BOLD and go for a shorter hem or a lower neckline. After all, you can always toss on a great long, dramatic silk scarf (tied at the back of your neck) to create a more appropriate look for the office. When you leave for the day, tie that same scarf sideways around your waste to add an attention-getting extra to your ensemble.

What else can you do to pump up the volume? Here's 8 more tips to get the ball rolling.

1. Stockings. Remember that a simple little black dress can carry a bigger accessory statement. Go for fishnet pantyhose! ... or at least consider a few polka dots or a classy seam up the back.

2. Shoes. Okay, this is your chance to give yourself a REAL lift. The great thing about a basic black is that you can add almost ANY signature color to your accessories. Just make sure that you create a symphony of color - and not chaos. If your shoes are red, your scarf should feature the same shade too. You get the picture.

3. Think about a hat. Same reason. A basic black outfit can carry those amazing extras that a print or plaid might not. Just keep the chapeau to the same level of classiness.

4. Go for the gusto with ONE big signature piece of jewelry, instead of an ensemble.

5. Follow 7th Avenue's latest craze and add a vibrant, colored trench over your little black dress!

6. Add a zipper! If you've seen anything in the media about fashion recently, you've probably noticed that exterior, exposed zippers are jazzing it up all over the place. Want to make a strong statement with little effort? Use double-sided tape to put a long faux zipper up the back of your dress - or hey - up the FRONT would be amazing! (Just remember, it will only get you through the night!) Remember to actually SEW the zipper in place if you love the look!

7. Got an old dress that you're ready to replace? Add a few inches of lace at the bottom and at the neckline and save it for your next special occasion. Lace might be too dressy for the office, but it is always a go at weddings and christenings.

8. Finally, #8 (which is actually #10, if you've been keeping count!). It's all in the bag! Okay, I try NOT to talk about bags in every accessory column - just because it's so obvious, but for the perfect little black dress, we simply CAN'T overlook the bag. In this case, you don't need to spend a TON of money either. Hit the local thrift store and look for the most amazing little handbag you can find - or the boldest. Remember, the great thing about the basic plus size little black dress is that it can make a BIG statement with just a LITTLE effort.

For a Plus Size Girl, weddings and proms can be a frustrating event. Not only are the latest and greatest fashions, displayed on a size 2 manikin, they do not have the same appeal when you try them on in a size 14 and up.

Statistics show, that six out of every 10 women are considered Plus Size, and many of these girls, are just big frames, not really a large size at all. But when they go shopping in the regular malls, they will find dresses that are geared for much smaller and lighter framed girls.

Plus size stores have started popping up around the cities, as the retailers see that there is a need, but still many of the styles do not flatter the plus size girl. Girls start crash dieting to try and fit in with the norm, or squeeze themselves into dresses that just don't fit.

If you eat well, and exercise your body, and you are a size 14, then that is your size. Stop looking at the scale and use a tape measure only. Measure yourself properly, do not suck everything in to look an inch smaller, take you actual measurement, and then head for stores that will find a dress that will fit you.

You do not want to be fainting on your wedding day, or when dancing with your boyfriend at your prom, you want to remember it, and have a good time. One of the best ways to look gorgeous on your wedding day, or prom date, is to find a dress that fits all of your curves. It doesn't pull in one place, and bulge out another. If you wear a dress that is too small, you will actually look chunkier than if you get a dress that fits you well.

There are so many great styles out there now, designers are sharpening their pencils and coming up with some really hot looks, and you are not limited to the local mall for your plus size prom dresses and wedding dresses. Start taking a good look at some online stores. The internet is a huge shopping mall, and there are some great sites that cater to the plus size girl, and all of her curves.

Get the right style and size of dress and you will stand tall, look slimmer and feel like a million bucks. Get the size tag out of your head, and use it as a guide only for your measurements, then just go by the fit, and not the number.
plus size prom dresses

I went into my closet the other day and realized that it's almost time for the new spring fashions to hit the stores. Now I have to admit, while I sometimes still worry about looking too big, I have always celebrated the end of the winter wardrobe. I have just never been comfortable hidden under ten layers of clothing and locked inside heavy woolen fabrics. Every year, around the end of January, I start pining to feel the air against my bare arms and the sun warming my face. I count the days until I can hang my puffy down winter coat, wrapped carefully in a burgundy garment bag, in the back of my coat closet and leave my mismatched gloves in the farthest corner of my lowest drawer.

Spring is my season. I love the pastel colors and the scent of things blooming around me. So for me, finding a few great retailers that carry great looking clothes in my plus size is just part of my annual wardrobe renewal. And quite simply, I don't want to be patronized as a "big girl" and forced to wear styles that are - well, style-less. I want to find a few favorite places that I know will always have some great ensembles and where my plus size won't cause some saleswoman to look me up and down and roll her eyes. (Yes, it still happens.)

Like everywhere that we hand our "hard earned" cash over to, none of us want to be without grace or appreciation. And that goes especially for intimate purchases - like clothing. There's no feeling better (or worse) than walking out of the dressing room and seeing yourself in that outfit you just couldn't resist. For the plus size woman, the right salesperson can definitely influence which way that experience will go.

For me, there are three places that I have grown to LOVE as a plus size consumer: Macy's, Nordstrom's, and for my online purchases, Sealed with a Kiss Designs, swakdesigns.com . I have to admit, I love the allure of going into a store, walking around all the new things, trying a few things on, and bringing home my number one favorite in a garment bag. I feel like Maria in West Side Story every single time, twirling in front of my full length mirror and reminding myself that I am the hottest size 16 on the block.

But there's definitely a huge convenience factor to online shopping, and SWAK has gone really far to make the process as simple and painless as possible. Not only do they make sure to always have a great new selection to choose from, but they also have their website categorized by ITEM - you can literally click on "plus size little black dress" and find at least a dozen fabulous choices. Plus size camisoles, plus size split skirts - you name it, this company has a category for it. (I've requested that they add a button called "Spring Fling" just for me!)

The bottom line is this - whatever your size, whatever your style, find a few great retailers that you can stick with time and time again. And if you really love the company, take the time to drop them a note and say that, or mention them in your blog if you have one (be sure to send a copy to the CEO's email address). Make sure that if they have an email newsletter that you sign up for it. Going through the effort to actually build a relationship with your purveyor will go a long way when you need them to honor a return that is far past their policy or exchange something for the third time.

Make no mistake, companies WANT to keep their best customers happy - especially in today's economy - so be sure to let them know that you ARE one of their best clients. After all, spring is only three short months away, and there's a snazzy new wardrobe waiting somewhere just for you!

There is a sentence I repeat probably a hundred times a day. I say it to myself, I offer it to my coworkers, and I remind others of its veracity constantly. That sentence is, "Beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes."  For those of you who read this blog regularly, you'll know that owning that idea wasn't always easy – it took some work. And it takes work to help others get there, too. Often, it starts with reminding them that a mere hundred years ago, all the burlesque queens had curves.

Sometimes, that conversation takes on a life of its own and veers into the world of "sexy is as sexy does." The Internet has been a tremendously liberating experience for plus size women, especially when it comes to lingerie – and even the bigger question of sexuality in general. As society grew more and more focused on weight and the ever-present oxymoron that we were all supposed to be thin, it seemed for a while that being a full figured woman almost became something to be ashamed of. We were told to dress in layers – or worse – don't leave the house at all. Certainly, we weren't supposed to be flirtatious and titillating – that belonged solely to the size 6 and under set.

What a lie! Fortunately for me – and beautiful plus size women just like me – there has been a big backlash to the thin lie we've all been force fed. Personally, I want to OWN my beauty every day of my life, and I want to own everything that goes with it. The idea that I should leave my beauty in the kitchen and hide my body once the lights go out is worse than absurd; it's destructive.

I can remember searching for a lace penoir set when my best friend, Carolyn, got married in our early twenties. Carolyn was amazingly beautiful (still is) – so much so that she was voted best looking in our senior yearbook. She was still gorgeous five years later at a size 22 when she got engaged. I knew it, her fiancée knew it, everyone knew it. But apparently Macy's, JCPenney, and all the other lingerie departments in our hometown didn't know it. The only choices they gave were worse than unflattering – they were boring. After many weeks of frustration, the bridal party and I gave up and paid a local seamstress to design and sew a one-of-a-kind, amazingly beautiful sheer silk and lace penoir (with a tiny red heart on the cleavage, just for fun).

With the birth of the online world, we're now privy to endless examples of adorable, sexy, plus sized clothing and lingerie with the click of a mouse. Everything from the simplest French Maid's outfit right down to a leopard print G-string – you ask for it, it's out there.

Working at SWAK Designs has offered me a million opportunities to be part of an exciting and wonderful revolution, and today, I invite you to join me and participate as well. It's a sexual revolution for the new millennium – one where every woman is empowered to dress it up and strut her stuff. If you're a plus size diva, buy yourself something sexy and new to wear in the boudoir and allow yourself (and your partner) some exciting new sizzle in the bedroom (or wherever!). And remember, sexy starts with what's on the inside – but like everywhere in life, a great wardrobe sure doesn't hurt!

Okay, we are all aware of the perception that plus size women should wear BIG accessories to draw attention away from our big bosom or derriere. Thankfully, I'm here to tell you that this is absolutely not true (and more than a little ridiculous). Our nation is changing, and the last frontier of prejudice - being overweight - is finally beginning to fade. Perfectly normal sized women like Jessica Simpson are beginning to say ENOUGH and draw a line in the sand - saying that they are unwilling to be judged by their size. Little did Jessica Simpson realize that she would inspire a huge dialogue around weight, size, and just what constitutes beauty in this country.

So what does this have to do with accessories? Oh, nothing - and everything. My point is that we absolutely do NOT have to wear a huge scarf or carry a big saddle bag to hide behind. We are just FINE with our size. (Here's a secret: make that last statement true for YOU, and the rest of the world will follow suit. And hey, if they don't, well then that's their problem.)

Being okay with your body allows you to make entirely new choices around wardrobes, fashion, and the ever changing accessories that complement it all. For instance, if you have a great vest to wear, there's nothing wrong with wearing it buttoned up with only a plus size camisole underneath and a terrific long strand of pearls either loose or knotted at your neck. OR wear the same vest open over a plus size blouse with a great sequined pin on the lapel. Worried about tucking your blouses in? Add a wide casual dropped belt to the ensemble and toss that fear aside forever! OR wear the belt over the same plus size top bloused over a pair of jeans. Or get really creative and add a cowboy hat and a pair of boots - great with that same vest or a pair of plus size split pants, by the way!

And hey, never underestimate the power of a new pair of shoes and a fabulous handbag to makeover an ensemble or bring it into the next season (can you say espadrilles?). The bottom line is that great accessories can be used to literally multiply your wardrobe. Just two or three belts, a few stylish handbags, and a vest can turn four outfits into a load of different combinations!

For the plus size woman, accessorizing is NOT about hiding. In fact, it's really the opposite. It's about standing out a little in the crowd and adding that special piece of pizzazz to everything we wear. For me, it says that I took the time to look absolutely fabulous in whatever I'm wearing and celebrate my individuality! What's in my collection? On any given day, I might wear the following: A four-inch brass pin of a carousel horse, an antique silk scarf that my grandmother used to hide her hair under when it was set in curlers, a royal blue suede fringed belt, black suede thigh-high boots (a personal fave), a red beret, a burgundy leather backpack purse, and a red leather vest with the words "Sexy Girl" written on the back in metal studs.

Okay, now here's something worth noting. I have had ALL of those items in my wardrobe for at least ten years. So did they get used to death? Not even close. I didn't start featuring these great pieces until about a year ago, when I woke up one day and got tired of worrying about my weight, wishing I were thin, and basically putting my BEAUTY on hold until tomorrow. Like Jessica Simpson, I finally drew a line in the sand and said enough! I am here this moment, and my beauty is not up for debate.

And ever since, every single day when I get dressed, I stop for a few moments and think about that one extra piece that will make my outfit pop off the page and say, "Look at me, world - I'm fabulous!"

There are key pieces that every Plus Size woman needs to have in her wardrobe and I cannot live without. Now that spring is here, I thought it would be good to get every woman started on the right path in creating their new "spring-fabulous" wardrobe. These wardrobe essentials will help you create a variety of looks that are classy, figure-flattering, and timeless.

1. Foundation Garments: Starting with the proper undergarments is key to having a "Spring-Fabulous" wardrobe. I feel that what you wear under clothes can definitely make or break your outfit. Every Plus Size woman must be sure to have proper fitting bras, panties, shapers, etc. to help smooth out your curves and complete the look you are trying to achieve. I don't leave home without these and particularly love the hide and sleek cami by SPANX.

2. Sexy Wrap Dress: This is a definite must have dress style for every Plus Size woman. Why it's so amazing is because the diagonal part of the wrap works like magic to show off a narrow waist and fakes one for the wider waisted women. The wrap dress is a classic and is super sexy whether in a print or solid, pair it with a sexy pair of open toed heels and you're "Spring-Fabulous." Check out the gorgeous new Anastasia Interchangeable Plus Size Wrap Dress ($89.99). This dress can also be worn as a one-shoulder style which is particularly hot for spring.

3. A-Line Skirt: A Plus Size woman cannot go wrong with A-line! This skirt style is especially great for women who have either a tummy issue or a hip/thigh issue but works well for most figures. When finding the right length in an A-line skirt you want to stay away from styles that hit you mid-calf, it's better to just hit at or below the knee where the leg is the thinnest and shows off the curve of the calf. Try and pick an A-line with a pretty floral pattern that is perfect for spring.

4. Classic Button-Front Shirt: A classic shirt you will reach for again and again. You can't go wrong with this style whether if it's for work, a casual day out and about, or a night out on the town. Long sleeve, short-sleeve, three-quarter sleeve, whatever sleeve, pair it up with a fitted vest or under a light weight sorbet colored cardigan and you are "Spring-Fabulous."

5. Jeans: Whether they are cropped or not, no wardrobe is complete without a great pair of plus size jeans! They can be dressed up or down. Wide-leg trouser style jeans are especially great for the more pear-shaped woman and the "Skinny" jean styles are a great fit for the apple-shaped Plus Size woman. For spring, try out a pair of distressed "Boyfriend Style" jeans for a more casual laid-back look. Whatever style you choose, be sure to save the lighter washes for more casual daytime looks and the darker washes for the dressier night out look.

6. Trench Coat: This is a perfect spring staple! A Trench coat gives an outfit a complete, more polished look. Pick one in a bright spring color or basic khaki. Find one that fits close to your body or that has a tie at the waist for a more figure flattering look. Three-quarter length styles are the most flattering. Be sure to stay away from the styles that have oversized lapels that can be extremely overpowering.

7. Flat Sandals: The foot-friendly flat sandal is a true essential for a "Spring-Fabulous" wardrobe. In addition to embellished, fringed, patent, metallic, and snakeskin print flat sandals, the "gladiator" look is particularly stylish and is worn great with jeans, Bohemian style tops, skirts, and dresses.

8. Romantic Blouse: This blouse should have a romantic feel to it with a lightweight, soft, flowy fabric in a light pastel solid or print. Find a style that has some lace or ruffle detail to make it "Spring-Fabulous." If the blouse is loose enough perhaps try belting it to define your waistline. Pair this blouse with jeans and your flat sandals and you are set.

9. Deep V-Neck Top: Deep V-necklines are a staple in Plus Size women fashions. Wearing a deep v-neck makes the body look longer and leaner and is extremely flattering for a Plus Size figure. If a deep V-neck is not for you, pair it with a lightweight coordinating color cami for a great layered look with a pair of jeans.

10. Hobo Bag: Comfortable hobo style bags in colors such as black, white, beige, metallic, blue, green, orange, and violet are extremely hot this season. Make an impression and carry something bold and bright.

Okay, we've all heard the rumor that plus size women should use BIG accessories to draw attention away from our big bosom or derriere. Thankfully, I'm here to tell you that this is absolutely false (and more than a little ridiculous). Our nation is changing, and the last frontier of prejudice – being overweight – is finally beginning to fade. Perfectly normal sized women like Jessica Simpson are beginning to say ENOUGH and draw a line in the sand – saying that they are unwilling to be judged by their size. Little did Jessica Simpson realize that she would inspire a huge dialogue around weight, size, and just what constitutes beauty in this country.

So what does this have to do with accessories? Oh, nothing – and everything. My point is that we absolutely do NOT have to wear a huge scarf or carry a big saddle bag to hide behind. We are just FINE with our size. (Here's a secret: Make that last statement true for YOU, and the rest of the world will follow suit. And hey, if they don't, you won't really give a damn.) 

Being okay with your body allows you to make entirely new choices around wardrobes, fashion, and the ever changing accessories that complement it all. For instance, if you have a great vest to wear, there's nothing wrong with wearing it buttoned up with only a plus size camisole underneath and a terrific long strand of pearls either loose or knotted at your neck. OR wear the same vest open over a plus size blouse with a great sequined pin on the lapel. Worried about tucking your blouses in? Add a wide casual dropped belt to the ensemble and toss that fear aside forever! OR wear the belt over the same plus size top bloused over a pair of jeans. Or get really creative and add a cowboy hat and a pair of boots – great with that same vest or a pair of plus size split pants, by the way!

And hey, never underestimate the power of a new pair of shoes and a fab handbag to makeover an ensemble or bring it into the next season (can you say espadrilles?). The bottom line is that great accessories can be used to literally multiply your wardrobe. Just two or three belts, a few stylish handbags, and a vest can turn four outfits into a load of different combinations!

For the plus size woman, accessorizing is NOT about hiding. In fact, it's really the opposite. It's about standing out a little in the crowd and adding that special piece of pizzazz to everything we wear. For me, it says that I took the time to look absolutely fabulous in whatever I'm wearing and celebrate my individuality! What's in my collection? On any given day, I might wear the following: A four-inch brass pin of a carousel horse, an antique silk scarf that my grandmother used to hide her hair under when it was set in curlers, a royal blue suede fringed belt, black suede thigh-high boots (a personal fave), a red beret, a burgundy leather backpack purse, and a red leather vest with the words "Sexy Girl" written on the back in metal studs.

Okay, now here's something worth noting. I have had ALL of those items in my wardrobe for at least ten years. So did they get used to death? Not even close. I didn't start featuring these great pieces until about a year ago, when I woke up one day and got tired of worrying about my weight, wishing I were thin, and basically putting my BEAUTY on hold until tomorrow. Like Jessica Simpson, I finally drew a line in the sand and said enough! I am here this moment, and my beauty is not up for debate.

And ever since, every single day when I get dressed, I stop for a few moments and think about that one extra piece that will make my outfit pop off the page and say, "Look at me, world – I'm fabulous!"

I went into my closet the other day and realized that before we know it, spring fashion will be here. Now I have to admit, while I sometimes still worry about looking too big, I have always celebrated the end of the winter wardrobe. I have just never been comfortable hidden under twelve layers of clothing and locked inside heavy woolen fabrics. Every year, around the end of January, I start pining to feel the air against my bare arms and count the days until I can hang my puffy down winter coat, wrapped carefully in a burgundy garment bag, in the back of my coat closet and leave my mismatched gloves in the farthest corner of my lowest drawer.

Spring is my season. I love the pastel colors and the scent of things blooming around me. So for me, finding a few great retailers that carry great looking clothes in my plus size is just part of my annual wardrobe renewal and personal celebration. And quite simply, I don't want to be patronized as a "big girl" and forced to wear styles that are – well, style-less. I want to find a few favorite places that I know will always have some great ensembles and where my plus size won't cause some saleswoman to look me up and down and roll her eyes. (Yes, it still happens.)

Like everywhere that we hand our "hard earned" cash over to, none of us want to be without grace or appreciation. And that goes especially for intimate purchases – like clothing. There's no feeling better (or worse) than walking out of the dressing room and seeing yourself in that outfit you just couldn't resist. For the plus size woman, the right salesperson can definitely influence which way that experience will go.

For me, there are three places that I have grown to LOVE as a plus size consumer:  Macy's, Nordstrom's, and for my online purchases, SWAK Designs (http://www.swakdesigns.com). I have to admit, I love the allure of going into a store, walking around all the new things, trying a few things on, and bringing home my number one favorite in a garment bag. I feel like Maria in West Side Story every single time, twirling in front of my full length mirror and reminding myself that I am the hottest size 16 on the block.

But there's definitely a huge convenience factor to online shopping, and SWAK has gone really far to make the process as simple and painless as possible. Not only do they make sure to always have a great new selection to choose from, but they also have their website categorized by ITEM – you can literally click on "plus size little black dress" and find at least a dozen fabulous choices. Plus size camisoles, plus size split skirts – you name it, this company has a category for it. (I've requested that they add a button called "Spring Fling" just for me!)

The bottom line is this – whatever your size, whatever your style, find a few great retailers that you can stick with time and time again. And if you really love the company, take the time to drop them a note and say that, or mention them in your blog if you have one (be sure to send a copy to the CEO's email address). Make sure that if they have an email newsletter that you sign up for it. Going through the effort to actually build a relationship with your purveyor will go a long way when you need them to honor a return that is far past their policy or exchange something for the third time.

Make no mistake, companies WANT to keep their best customers happy – especially in today's economy – so be sure to let them know that you ARE one of their best clients. After all, spring is only three short months away, and there's a snazzy new wardrobe waiting somewhere just for you!

Do you squeeze into a dress or outfit, because you are hung up on the "size tag"?.

Even though you can't breathe, and that annoying bulge has found another place to pop out from, you stand in front of the mirror, and pray the zipper doesn't rip or that you can somehow get through the day or evening without taking a deep breath and hearing a rip... just so you can say you fit into that smaller size.

Our body image should not be dictated by a number on a size tag. There are so many fashion houses out there now, that are using different sizing scales, so that one company could fit you well at size 14, yet another may have you in a size 16 for the same fit.

The fact is, when you wear an outfit that is one size too small, it actually makes you look bigger, because those little bulges that you are trying to hide work with the laws of gravity, and will always find another place to pop out!.

Take a few different sizes into the fitting room, and go for comfort and fit, there are so many great fashions out there now for the plus size girl, (6 out of 10 women are plus size) that you can look slimmer and walk taller and feel good about yourself. You just need to come away from that size tag mentality. If it really bothers you, cut the size tag off as soon as you get home.

Everyone around you is going to notice how great you look, and are not likely to come up to you and try and sneak a peek at the size!. You need to be able to move, breathe and feel good. If you find that perfect outfit, and you just can't hide an annoying bulge, you can purchase body shapers now that fit like a second skin.. just to smooth out the bumps, not to get you into a smaller size! Lets get out of that "size tag mindset" and have fun with the latest styles and fashions for the season. Plus size stores, online and offline, are carrying some of the latest fashions that will have you looking great for this season.

 great body wraps and shapers

Women all over the world love to dress comfortably for different occasions. This is equally true for skinny model types and for the plus size woman. The trouble is, many of the clothing choices do not provide the woman with a comfortable fit. Nothing can spoil an event more than feeling uncomfortable in an outfit that rubs in all the wrong places and squeezes in the other places.

If you are a plus size woman who leads a very active social life, having a solid selection of soft and comfortable clothes in your closet can help you cross match to achieve a stunning look. Remember that when it comes to soft clothing for the plus size woman, you can always mix and match new items with seasoned items to give your wardrobe an almost limitless reach.

It's always nice to look good everyday, especially when you meet family and friends for a social event. Even in a social setting, dressing appropriately and comfortably gives off an aura of success, beauty, and loving life.

If you are a plus size woman who would like to look good, feel good, and feel comfortable everyday, then it is of paramount importance that you carefully select soft and comfortable clothing designed specifically for the full size woman. One great aspect of soft clothing for the plus size woman is that it gives a woman that confident feeling she is looking and feeling divinely beautiful and comfortable.

When shopping for soft clothing for the plus size woman, consider stocking your wardrobe with neutral colors that can easily be mixed and matched, and are appropriate for most occasions. Naturally, black is also always in fashion! You simply cannot go wrong when you wear something that is soft and black, especially when you add the right fashion accessories.

Just try it and see how much more you enjoy going out for the evening, or strolling through the mall, when you feel light and comfortable while you grin when you see all the other women going to the washroom to adjust their tight and uncomfortable outfits.

Be a proud plus size woman who enjoys life and beauty by wearing beautiful soft and comfortable clothing.

Overweight women are growing, and this has been noticed by the fashion industry. More trendy and stylish plus sizes fashions are being brought to the market. However, women in plus sizes has the tendency to follow the latest trends.There are fashionable ideas for missy and averaged sized women that are not necessairly suitable for women plus sizes. Every woman is the best judge of what looks best on her body. Women want to look their best and this should be their basis for developing fashionable attire. By looking at fashion magazines and clothing catalogs, they can have great ideas of new styles to try out. But if it does not make them look better, just try out other ideas instead. Today, one of the latest trends for women clothing styles is the comeback of ruffles and drapes in dresses and tops. Plus sizes clothing with many drapes, ruffles, and layers may not look good in women with full figure. These things enlarge silhouette or emphasize the already extra large physique. Besides, many flounces and ruffles might have the unfortunate effect of making women in plus sizes look clownish. Even if the ruffles can help cover body imperfections, it will still have significant negative effect on the total appearance - big women getting even bigger. So instead of looking for the latest trend and try them out immediately, evaluate first if it has positive effect on your plus sizes body. Ruffles may be in but if makes you look even bigger, better avoid it. Always choose design in women plus sizes that flatter your full figure not otherwise.  

Are you plus size and sick of going to places where you are surrounded by ultra skinny people? Well, there is no need to be worried any longer and there is no need to sit inside and dwell on the fun you could be having. There are lots of things you can do and places you can go as a plus sized beauty and it doesn't matter whether you are male or female.

There are lots of positive plus size events that are arranged and attended by plus size people of all ages and sex. They are there to spread a positive message about being plus size and showing people that they are not alone when they are plus sized.

Plus size events are organised all over the world and are immensely popular. You can even meet plus sized singles online. A leading dating network for plus size singles is called FindmyBBW.com. They have over 20,000 singles in their network. Many happy couples have met online through this type of plus size dating network.

The fashion world is also extremely interested in holding plus size events and have a runway and fashion clothes made especially for the plus size men and women all over the world. There will be a chance to try on the clothes at the plus size fashion shows and buy them at discounted prices. Not only that, but it allows plus size women and men to meet other people with whom they share something very special with.

No matter which city or state you live in, in the US, you will find numerous great plus size events happening every month. The plus events are to allow plus size men and women to meet, connect and network with. Some such plus size events that are out there to get involved with are plus size yoga, plus size belly dancing, get skinny models off the runway event, fun festivals and so many others. The plus size events in your area may be different to those listed up above, but they will be just as much fun to attend and get involved with. For sure, attending these events can make anyone's life more interesting and colorful.

There are also lots of plus parties that are extremely popular with everyone who goes to them. Some plus size parties are the plus size meet and greet comedy clubs, dancing clubs, art classes and parties, and many more.

It is easy to find plus size events and parties wherever you live. A simple search online will yield fantastic results for your area. You may also find plus size events and parties advertised in your local paper or perhaps in the national papers.

Plus size parties and events are amazing to meet people who are all under the same social stigma. It is a great way to meet people that you know you share something special with. Remember that you are not in a minority and you are beautiful the way you are.

Although the fashion world has been built on the idea of thin, thinner, and thinnest for the last few decades, there has definitely been a huge revolution, over the last few years especially, to include the other half of our population – the 50% of us who fall into the size 16 and over, full-figured world.

There have been many contributions to this revolution, of course, not the smallest of which is the change in the fashion industry itself.  Two summers ago, runway officials in Spain literally refused to allow models under a certain BMI (Body Mass Index) to strut their stuff on the catwalk during Fashion Week.  What the fashion world finally realizes, and wholeheartedly embraces, is that there must be a standard in their industry that no longer promotes eating disorders and self-destructive behavior around food.  Like superstars in movies and in sports, they realize that their "top models" are indeed role models to young people.  The side effect of this has been a new level of acceptance around full figured women.

This is great news to the world at large, and especially to the plus size women in the United States (where we are literally HALF of the population).  Not only has the conversation definitely changed to healthy, instead of skinny – but the newest message is really one of self-acceptance and confidence, no matter what size we may be.

The first signs that plus size fashion was becoming more accepted in the main stream, and perhaps even admired in its own right, became obvious when well known high-end designers, such as Liz Claiborne, began special divisions catering specifically to larger women (in Claiborne's case, the line is called "Elizabeth").  We also can't overlook the ever growing popularity of full figured couture designers, such as Richard Metzger, who dresses such well known plus size stars as Oprah Winfrey, Star Jones and Camryn Manheim.

The plus size fashion revolution gained a much stronger foothold this past September, again at Fashion Week in Milan, when popular designer Elena Miro kicked off the entire show with a line of full figured couture.  Miro has joined the ranks of those creating everything from plus size dresses to plus size jeans and has embraced the indisputable reality that beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes.  And we have the money to spend in order to look great!  Darius Cordell Couture even designs plus size bridal gowns and evening wear for the full size bridal party or mother of the bride (or groom, of course).

The best advice that comes from this group of designers for plus-size women?  Accent your best features and stop trying to cover yourself from head to toe.  Got great legs?  Definitely go for shorter skirts and dresses and skip the Bermuda shorts!  Love your sexy arms?  Show them off in plus size camisoles and spaghetti strap sundresses.  Whatever your assets, definitely dress them up and strut your stuff!  Whether it's the catwalk or the sidewalk, looking great is simply always in style.

While fewer fashions are made for plus size women, you'll find that the ones that are tend to be more affordable which actually works to your advantage.

Here are some of the best places to go online for great plus size casual fashions at an affordable price!

1. Silhouette www.silhouette.com has very affordable fashions in a wide range, from denim to silky night-on-the-town clothing, up to size 26.

2. Lane Bryant www.lanebryant.com is one of the pioneers of sexy, fashionable plus size clothing. Sign up for their email list to get coupons on a regular basis. They sell fashions from size 12 to 28. Look at their clearance section to find some great deals.

3. Chadwick's www.chadwicks.com has been around for a long time selling conservative, but pretty, clothes. Their models are suspiciously thin on the website, but I have gotten a few nice pieces there.

4. Avenue www.avenue.com is like Chadwick's with a New York flair. You won't find gypsy tops here, but you'll find some nice line-lengthening jackets and great jeans. And their sizes go up to 32!

5. Roaman's www.roamans.com used to be something of an "old-ladies" store, but it has totally reinvented itself. You can find beautiful stretch velvets and trendy tops in sizes up to 44. Look for special deals for new web visitors.

6. Size Appeal www.sizeappeal.com has a great assortment of sexy clothes, proving once more that "frumpy" is not a synonym for "plus size." While base prices are slightly high, sales on still-fantastic and dramatic pieces are Wal-Mart range.

7. Kiyonna www.kiyonna.com shows beautiful plus size women wearing beautiful plus size clothing – much nicer than the companies that use skinny women faking it! Prices are average, but no discount as far as I can find other than end-of-season clearances. They do have sizes up to 32.

8. PacificPlex www.pacificplex.com is perfect for teen plus size girls. From formals to jeans, you can find the size you need here – even misses plus.

9. Alight www.alight.com sells really trendy, youngish clothes to size 28, including a fantastic selection of "little black dresses." Warning: while some of the clothes are very reasonably price, the really nice things can be pricey.

10. Igigi www.igigi.com is one of my personal favorites and happens to the first company who gave me the opportunity to model plus size clothing years ago. You'll truly feel beautiful wearing their plus size fashions.

11. Overstock www.overstock.com has been known for its great deals for a long time. Don't get carried away when you shop here for bargains; you can find name-brand and designer clothing including plus size clothing for as little as 20% of its original price.

After years of study on the size and structure of American women, plus size women, including plus size teens and junior plus size females, have gotten the attention of the clothing industry and designers.

Plus size beautiful women have moved beyond the expected plus size maternity clothes to be sized and fitted with plus size special occasion dresses that include plus size party dresses, prom dresses and wedding dresses.

More and more fashion shows are including plus size models. More and more designers are creating new and colorful plus size women's apparel to cater to this large segment of America's population. Women boutiques are opening up all across America and online offering every thing from plus size lingerie to plus size Wedding dresses and gowns to meet the needs of their clientele.

As the summer enters the second half of August, our attention to fashions begins to change like the color of leaves on the trees that mark fall's arrival. This Summer into Fall Styles will have a new look for plus size clothing for women this fall. Plus size fashions for women this fall, like with every September, will be putting away the plus size swimwear, tankinis, skirtinis, swimdresses, and cover-ups in favor of warmer outerwear and separates.

Junior plus size urban trendy clothing will include hoodies, sweatshirts, sweatpants, and sweaters. The designers will introduce fall fashion colors into these new fall looks. These plus size clothes will be trendy and sexy when women mix and match these plus size women's separates.

Plus size pantsuits, blouses, blazers, wrap sweaters, cardigans, kimono sleeve sweaters, pencil skirts, gored skirts, a line skirts, tops, turtlenecks and long sleeve mock turtlenecks will create a bright fresh fall look for women in these fall fashions. Plus size wide leg jeans and 5 pocket jeans will keep the fun alive rolling around in a pile of colorful leaves or a night out clubbing.

Fall wedding planners will have a wide choice of plus size wedding dresses and gowns. Bridesmaid's fall wedding color dresses in all sizes are available. A plus size Mother of the Bride pant suit will fit quite comfortably for those cool October Weddings.

Plus size career clothing, evening and cocktail dresses will provide women the proper apparel for the work place and those important evening gatherings with the corporation's bosses, co-workers, and clients.

As back-to-school sales commercials punctuate our television programs and the daily newspapers sell full page ads for all of our children's school needs with Labor Day approaching, let these signs be a reminder to you to begin shopping now for your new fall plus-size wardrobe. Many of the best bargains you will find are on the internet for all your plus size needs for both work and play.

With present day economics of high gas prices and higher prices in the market place due to these same fuel costs for the manufacturer and retailer, one can find SPECIAL SAVINGS for ONLINE INTERNET SHOPPING ONLY, and many websites provide FREE SHIPPING with an advertised dollar amount of purchases. This saves time and money for you, the customer.

For years, plus size teens and young adults had little in the way of choice for fashionable, youthful clothing. They were forced to shop at "fat" stores, and find the least conservative styles at the "plus size ladies or guys" store. Manufacturers and retail stores would call all their plus size clothing, "teen friendly" when in reality the large flower print smock type blouses didn't even really appeal to old ladies! It took years for the s/m/l designer mindset to realize that the majority of women and men, let alone teens aren't s/m/l.

Plus size pre-teens had it even worse. At that awkward growing stage, pre-teens had to buy jeans that were way too baggy, long and shapeless and even with alteration, they would grow out of them quickly. Swimming suits for pre-teens went to size 14 or 16 if they were lucky, and they were never sized properly or attractive. JC Penneys and Sears were about the only common brick and mortar stores with some choice for plus size pre-teen and plus size teen fashion. And of course, back then in the 80s and early 90s there wasn't an internet and catalog companies didn't cater to plus size teens either! Going back further, the fashion world all but ignored plus size people in general. There might be one large size store in town and the mumu house dress and the boxy navy suit were all they carried. Plus size teenage girls in the 50s and 60s had to resort to wearing men's jeans and slacks and shirts in order not to look like a 60 year old grandmother. The 70s brought an appreciation and realization that one size did not fit all, and jean companies began to stretch their line to size 18 and 20 with some fashionable choices. Richard Simmons came on the fashion scene in the early 80s and brought a recognition that plus size women and men were people too and might want some style in the wardrobe. But it still took another 20 years for fashion to embrace a teenage, youthful plus size look.

Thank goodness times have changed! Finally the fashion world has recognized there is a market for young, hip, plus size clothing and the internet is the delivery vehicle. The internet has forced choice on the fashion manufacturers and they are slowly realizing the demand is there and profitable. Forward thinking companies like Alight, Always for Me, Torrid, b&lu, Lane Bryant and The Avenue are delivering plus size teen fashions, in many choices and styles. Plus size teens still can't find many options at the mall but that will no doubt change as the popularity of the online plus size teen stores becomes evident. Television shows like Oprah, Tyra and The View are featuring plus size fashion shows as the norm and not the exception. The waif model is morphing into a more realistic body type and fashion designers are building their styles on "normal" women, rather than designing a size 0 and making it larger for their plus size customers.

This notion that plus size teens would rather hide because of their weight problem and then not need fashion is being replaced with the realization that with body acceptance comes a greater ability to deal with weight issues. Again, stars like Oprah, Tyra and plus size model Emme have consistently asked for change in the way society treats plus size teens and adults. Slowly our image of a beautiful woman or attractive man isn't limited to skin and bones, but includes all shapes and sizes. This new, healthy way of looking at size and style will ultimately help plus size teens feel better about themselves both mentally and physically. Hopefully the fashion world will embrace these new body types and retail possibilities and continue to expand their lines with plus size clothing actually made just for plus size teens.

We have been told that wearing black makes us look thin. Black clothing has become much more than funeral or cocktail party attire. It used to be inappropriate to wear black to a wedding. Not anymore. Black evening dresses make up at least half of the outfits at every wedding or cocktail reception. In fact, it is still the main staple of many women's wardrobes - and this is especially true if the woman is over a size two.

We have filled our closets and drawers with outfit after outfit more depressing than a rainy day simply because we want to appear slender. How ridiculous is that? First of all, we aren't all slender. Half of all American women are over a size fourteen, and half of those women are over a size twenty. That's no reason to dress like we're headed to a funeral. Wake up ladies!

The simple truth is that 50 years ago, a full-figured woman was not only more accepted, she was found to be quite attractive by society at large. Why is that different now? What changed? Although we should all strive to be healthy, celebrating who we are, as we are right now is powerful and fabulous. We are not a cookie-cutter society here in this country. We are taught the value of the individual from the first days we get here. Who you are and your personal style is a great thing! It is something to develop with joy and a sense of daring fun. After all, why not?

Plus size fashion is FUN. It is a hugely intimate expression of who you are as a woman. It can translate everything from what you do for a living to the mood you are in that day. Exploring the vibrant colors of the rainbow, discovering what works well with your skin tones and complexion, and throwing away (one by one) the closet full of funeral garb can be a cause for celebration! One outfit at a time, you can discover a new woman - one worth spending a few dollars on to express her best assets and her sense of style.

And if you don't know where to begin, simply start with the holidays and the seasons. Treat yourself to a vibrant pink blouse for Valentine's Day or a bright lime green skirt for St. Patrick's Day. Choose a beautiful orange sweater for the first day of autumn and a yellow jacket for the start of spring. There is no good reason anymore NOT to have fun with color in your wardrobe.

Go crazy and express yourself with a splash of color every chance you get. Collect a host of vibrant silk scarves to accent your wardrobe as you begin this process. You'll be surprised at the reactions of others and how happy it just might make you feel.

After all, it's a beautiful life and well worth "painting the town red" to fully enjoy! Get out there and go for it ladies! Have fun!

Sometimes finding a dress for a special occasion can be quite a task if you are a plus size woman. Often times, you may find it is hard to find places that will have the type of dress that you are looking for so you will have that look you want for the event you are going to attend. You will want to take into consideration the type of event that you are going to be attending. You do not want to go with a wedding reception dress if you are going to an awards dinner.

Once you know what type of event it is, you can do some research on the types of dresses that people are wearing to events such as the one you are going to. The next step in your search would be to sit down and decide on how much you can spend. Dresses for special occasions are usually not cheap, so you will want to shop around a bit to find what bargains are out there. Many women are starting to realize that there are actually coupons available for some of the more popular plus size fashion stores to help them save money.

You will want to look at the patterns that are available. There are many patterns that can take away pounds and then again, there are some that can add pounds to a woman. You will want to try to stay away from the patterns that include large floral designs and they will most definitely make you look much larger then you are. If you want to go with a print, then you will want to try to go with prints that lean toward bold blocks. Strips are also something you will want to watch out for. If you wear stripes one way, you will accentuate your figure, whereas the other direction will add more to the curves of your body. You have to be very aware of your style.

So just where do you find these coupons to help you get that dress you want? Well one of the first places to look would be the local ads in newspaper. Most often, local papers offer weekly coupons with their Sunday paper. Most often, the best place to look would be the internet for coupons for the plus size shops. These coupons can save you a great deal on many different types of dresses. You will see such coupons that offer $15 off a $50 purchase, $25 off a $75 purchase and $75 off $250. Then if you use these coupons on clearance items or items that are on sale, your savings can be doubled or even tripled.

There is no need to spend a fortune to look fabulous for that special occasion. You need to know where to shop and where to find the good coupons. Once you know the shops to go to and you are armed with the special savings, you will have that dream dress in no time at all.

There's a certain magic that comes with being a celebrity. They are dynamic; they are engaging. In fact, even though we never meet them, they often become role models. Through their work, they invite us to look into ourselves and find the magic inside each of us. For plus size women, these role models also have something that we often have very little of - confidence. Even those female celebrities who struggle with their weight and body image seem to know that they have something magical and unique, and that it has nothing to do with the size of their derriere or the number on the tag of their blouse.

Like all human beings, starlets come in an endless array of shapes and sizes - they come in the slender variety by the dozens - and they come in the not-so-slender category, like fuller-figured retired supermodel Tyra Banks. Season after season, Tyra uses her popular show, America's Next Top Model, to champion plus size women at every turn. It was very exciting to see a plus size model finally win the title of "America's Next Top Model," Whitney Thompson. And no conversation about plus-size role models would be complete without Oprah Winfrey - the queen of the modern-day weight battle.

So what is it about these particular women? Is it that they love themselves just a little more than the rest of us? Or is it simply that they ask US to love ourselves more - and to own EVERYTHING magical about ourselves that has NOTHING to do with our bodies?

Because I think that most of us look at their struggles with weight and often think, "Who cares?" When I see Wynonna Judd or Oprah struggling with their weight over and over, I never stop being amazed that they would even CARE about that. They are accomplished and fantastic, after all, and their beauty is NOT up for debate. So the question I am then led to ask is this: What does that say about me???

Much to my amazement, time after time, the answer is that I stop seeing myself from the outside - as a "plus size" woman - and instead, I see myself as a PHENOMENAL woman. My beauty is also not up for debate - not even by me! And it does NOT depend on the size of my a**.

Believing that our worth is proportionately tied to our size (in adverse ratios, I might add) is as awful as believing that it is tied to our race, or our bank account, or the neighborhood we live in. It's just another form of lies and false division. The WORST insult is when I do it to myself.

That is why I so often write about the importance of plus size fashion and having a killer wardrobe - because I am NOT going to let my magic be overlooked just because I'm hiding in the crowd, embarrassed about my weight. There's so much more to me that really matters in this world. My style matters. My vision matters. My PASSION matters. My ability to inspire others, my capacity to spot great ideas, my savvy when it comes to marketing and positioning - all of that matters. My fat a**? Not so much. And that, quite simply, is how I feel about that.

After years of study on the size and structure of American women, plus size women, including plus size teens and junior plus size females, have gotten the attention of the clothing industry and designers. Plus size beautiful women have moved beyond the expected plus size maternity clothes to be sized and fitted with plus size special occasion dresses that include plus size party dresses, prom dresses and wedding dresses.

More and more fashion shows are including plus size models. More and more designers are creating new, colorful, dressy and sexy plus size women's apparel to cater to this large segment of America's population. Women boutiques are opening up all across America and online offering everything from sexy plus size lingerie to plus size Wedding dresses and gowns to meet the needs of their clientele.

As the summer enters the second half of August, our attention to fashions begins to change like the color of leaves on the trees that mark fall's arrival. This Summer into Fall Styles will have a new look for plus size clothing for women this fall. Plus size fashions for women this fall, like with every September, will be putting away the plus size swimwear, tankinis, skirtinis, swimdresses, and cover-ups in favor of warmer outerwear and separates.

Junior plus size urban trendy clothing will include hoodies, sweatshirts, sweatpants, and sweaters. The designers will introduce fall fashion colors into these new fall looks. These plus size clothes will be trendy and sexy when women mix and match these plus size women's separates.

Trendy plus size pantsuits, blouses, blazers, wrap sweaters, cardigans, kimono sleeve sweaters, pencil skirts, gored skirts, a line skirts, tops, turtlenecks and long sleeve mock turtlenecks will create a bright fresh fall look for women in these fall fashions. Plus size wide leg jeans and 5 pocket jeans will keep the fun alive rolling around in a pile of colorful leaves or a night out clubbing.

Fall wedding planners will have a wide choice of plus size wedding dresses and gowns. Bridesmaid's fall wedding color dresses in all sizes are available. A plus size Mother of the Bride pant suit will fit quite comfortably for those cool October Weddings.

Plus size career clothing, evening and cocktail dresses will provide women with the proper apparel for the work place and those important evening gatherings with the corporation's bosses, co-workers, and clients.

As back-to-school sales commercials punctuate our television programs and the daily newspapers sell full page ads for all of our children's school needs as Labor Day approaches, let these signs be a reminder to you to begin shopping now for your new fall plus-size wardrobe. Many of the best bargains you will find are on the internet for all your plus size needs for both work and play.

With present day economics of high gas prices and higher prices in the market place due to these same fuel costs for the manufacturer and retailer, one can find SPECIAL SAVINGS for Online Internet Shopping Only, and many websites provide FREE SHIPPING with an advertised dollar amount of purchases. This saves time and money for you, the customer.