Wednesday, October 17, 2012

I know it's been a while...

It's been a busy month with work and travel, so unfortunately there hasn't been a lot of time for blogging. So, in an effort offer a piece offering, I thought i'd post a few links to sites that have some pretty great sales happening for fall...take a moment, and take a look!

http://www.lanebryant.com/   ***up to 50% off on select items****

http://www.simplybe.com/      ***up to 50% off on select items****

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/division.do?cid=5585  ****20% off, or 30% for card holders***

http://ashleystewart.com/  **25% off (today only) or free shipping with $75.00 or more**

http://www.avenue.com/  **  different sales for the next 4 days*****



Happy Shopping! Now go forth, and keep it classy!

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

White after Labor Day...To Wear, Or Not To Wear. That IS The Question!

This will be short, sweet, and too the point! And thank you Nina Johnson for the idea!!!!


Let me start by saying that I did a bit of research, to see where this "rule" came from...and I came up empty! No one seems to be able to explain the origins of this fashion don't. So with that, I say GO FOR IT! I feel that the no white after labor day rule is very old school. And ladies, we are currently in the 21st century! Now, I will say that I am not a fan of white shoes...really at any time of the year...lol.... (though I do own a pair of white peep toe stilettos, that I have had for about 3 years, and have only worn twice) I would keep the white shoes put away for the cooler months...and no, this does not apply to sneakers. So, with that said, in this edition of the Big Girl Blog, I will give a few pointers on how to wear white after labor day. As always, comments, questions, and suggestions are welcomed!


Basically, there are only two things to remember when wearing white after labor day...

1. Choose fabrics that are typically worn in cooler months/climates. Sweaters, tweed, wool, etc. Stay away from summer fabrics like linen chiffon, and gauze. See below for a sweater, which can be found at www.onestopplus.com:



2. When wearing white bottoms, go with a darker shoe...i,e black or brown.

Also, for those who may be a bit skittish about wearing white after labor day, there is such a thing as "winter white". This is basically white, with a hint of beige.  See the pants below, which can be found at www.onestopplus.com:


As always, thank you for taking a moment to read my blog. Now go forth, and keep it classy!

My Review of Hollywood Slim Leg Jean

Originally submitted at Avenue.com

Stay on trend with these slim-style plus size jeans. The comfortable stretch denim will give you the perfect look every time you put them on.

  • Slim leg jean with 5-pocket styling.
  • Single button with zip closure.
  • Signature embroidery on back pocket...


Finally, a true slim leg Jean!

By Brenda V from Fayetteville, NC on 9/17/2012

 

5out of 5

Waist: Feels true to size

Inseam: Feels true to length

Pros: Flattering, Comfortable, Great Fit, Great Color

Best Uses: Casual Wear, Going Out, Travel

Describe Yourself: Trendy

Was this a gift?: No

I have purchased slim leg Jeans from the Avenue in the past, and the legs never fit me right. While I am decidedly plus sized(22/24), I have thin legs. These Jeans are a perfect fit. The legs, for once, are not too big, and they still fit in the waist, stomach, and butt. I got them in black, and the color is a true black. Very pleased with my purchas!

(legalese)

My Review of Colorblock Blouse

Originally submitted at Avenue.com

You'll cheer for this sheer, plus size blouse. It's the perfect cooler to cocktail style. From our Avenue Studio Collection.

  • Sheer, woven long-slee...


I really wanted to love this top...

By Brenda V from Fayetteville, NC on 9/17/2012

 

3out of 5

Neck Size: Feels true to size

Sleeve Length: Feels too long

Chest Size: Feels true to size

Cons: Sleeves Are Odd

Best Uses: Date Night, Casual Wear, Office, Going Out

Describe Yourself: Trendy, Stylish

Was this a gift?: No

I purchased this in red, and the color is really beautiful. Fits well through chest, stomach, and back(which are my problem areas). But the sleeves are way too big, and are an odd length. It looks like they are supposed to be tapered at the wrist, but they just hang in an awkward fashion. Very dissappointed over all...

(legalese)

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Halloween is right around the corner!

I know, it's not even September yet, and I'm already talking about Halloween! But I know many of you start early with your costumes, and put a lot of thought, time and effort into your Halloween looks. As you're preparing, keep in mind that just because it's Halloween, that does not give you licence to forget the rules of Big Girl Etiquette! To ensure that you are aware that there are choices for plus size women, when it comes to shopping for Halloween, I have found a few web sites that offer plus size costumes at fairly decent prices....see below for the list!

www.onestopplus.com

www.torrid.com

www.plussizecostume.com

www.halloweenexpress.com

www.buycostumes.com

also, don't be afraid to use what you have in your closet! Take a knee length A-line dress, a pair of knee boots, pull your hair back in a pony tail (or pull it back with a head band or scarf, and flip the ends), white eye shadow, thick black liner, frosty lip stick, and hoop earrings...and you have a go go dancer from the 60's!

as always, thank you for taking the time to read my blog. Now go forth and keep it classy!!

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

as much as we may hate to face it....

Summer is nearing its end, which means that fall is around the corner. And, as we all know, that transition period where it's still warm, but not warm enough for "summer clothes" can be tricky to plan an outfit for. In this addition of the Big Girl Blog, my goal is to give some suggestions on how to layer, with out adding bulk, and keeping it stylish. As always, questions and feed back are encouraged!

Now, on to layering suggestions...

1.The Cardigan- what seems like a basic staple to any wardrobe. But if not worn properly, it can take you from trendy to tragic in the snap of a finger. Basically, you want to make sure it fits you properly. If you wear it closed, it should JUST hug the body. In other words, make sure it's not too tight. If the buttons are pulling, and leaving additional holes along the front, where there shouldn't be, then you need to go  up a size. If you choose to wear it open, be sure that it is not too big. The last thing you want is to be swimming in your cardigan. This will only make you look bigger. To get perfect fit, apply the same principle mentioned above...when the buttons line up perfectly down the center of the body, and the fabric hugs the body with out showing all the "bumps and bulges", you have the perfect fit.

2. The Hankie-hem Cardi- this too can be tricky. They tend to have long hems, and if not paired with the right items it can look awful. So, when wearing a hankie-hem cardi, be sure to pair with slim legged bottoms or straight skirts. If pairing with a skirt, make sure the skirt is longer than the longest part of the cardi. Lastly, be sure to wear your true size!

3. The Blazer- I must say, I am guilty of NOT owning one...not sure why that is, but I don't. I guess I should rectify this, and soon! Picking the perfect blazer is relatively simple, just make sure it fits properly. The sleeve (if a traditional long sleeve) should hit right at the wrist. It should be able to button with ease (same rules for the cardigan apply here also), and when buttoned, it should accentuate your waist...not hide it.


4. Layering these items- The cardi, and the hankie-hem cardi should be pair with a shirt that fits a bit sloser to the body, i.e a t-shirt, or a "baby tee". With the traditional cardi, it is ok to go with a fuller bottom, i.e a wide leg pant or peasant skirt. Because the traditional cardi will fit closer to the body, and fuller bottom will help to balance out your over all look.  See below for examples of both:

The traditional cardi look can be found at Oldnavy.com. The Hankie-Hem Cardi look can be found at Onestopplus.com.



***with the Hankie-Hem cardi, make sure the shirt you wear under neath is long enough to cover your stomach and booty!

When wearing a Blazer, these rule do not necessarily apply, because it can also double as outer ware. Just  be sure to purchase in solid colors, that can be easily matched with any outfit.  See below for an example from Simplybe.com:


As always, thank you for taking the time to read m blog! Now go forth, and keep it classy!



Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Jeans, Jeans, and more Jeans!

Now, more than ever, the choices we have for Jeans are endless...which can make it very difficult to find the right style of  Jean for you. But never fear, the Big Girl Blog is here with tips on how to find the perfect style and fit for you. As always, questions and feedback are welcome! And you all must think I am joking when I say that, but I mean it...I really do!!!

First. lets tackle the don'ts...

1. The "mom jean"- Why? No really, why? Why would any woman want to walk around in a high waisted, slim legged jean that does absolutely nothing to enhance the figure? I mean really, do want to walk around looking like this?


2. The boot cut jean- in my personal opinion, this look is atrocious on any one...tall, short, full figured, and thin...unless you're going to a costume party dressed as a hippy, there is no need for the boot cut jean...boot cut is just a fancy way of saying bell bottom...to this I say, please don't. lol... I mean really, do you find this look flattering?

Now, with those items out of the way...let move on to the Do's.

1. Flare Jeans- these are a great alternative to the boot leg jean. When worn correctly, they fit closer to the body until about mid to lower calf, where the cut is slightly wider. These can be worn with anything from heals, to flats, to boots, and still be stylish. See below for an example from Lane Bryant:


2.The straight leg jean- in most cases, this should be the standard go to jean. As long as you are wearing your true size, straight leg jeans will look good on anyone. There are, as always, exceptions to the rule...if your calves are thick, you may want to stick with flare jeans. See below for example from Lane Bryant:

3. The Skinny Jeans/Jeggings- I touched on this in a previous blog. Basically, the same rules that apply for the straight leg jean will apply here. Big Calves? Say no to the skinny Jean. That's all.

4. The new trend...the colored jean- as a 35 year old woman, I am not entirely sure about how I feel about these yet. In theory, I like the idea of taking the basic skinny jean or jegging, and stepping it up a notch...but I am not sure if this would be age appropriate for me. So, I believe I will give them a try in order to make an informed decision, and report back later...lol. In the mean time, if you are brave enough to give them a try, click the link below to check some from Old Navy.
http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/category.do?cid=70133

5. Fit-If you are unsure on how to fit yourself properly for jeans of any style, make a trip to Lane Bryant. They have a color coded system that will help you find the perfect jean for you. And, the associates are trained to help you find your true size, and the style that works best for you. I have personally had the fitting, and it works!

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my blog. Now go forth and keep it classy!!!


Friday, July 20, 2012

Hello all...

In light of the Tragedy that unfolded in Colorado this week, I will not do a fashion post.  However I will ask that each of you take a moment to reflect on what's happened, take time to hug your loved ones a little tighter, and to say a prayer for those affected.

Father,

I come to you today for a community in need. I pray that you bring peace where there is chaos, understanding where there is confusion, and healing to the wounded...mentally, physically, and emotionally. I know that you are the only one who can truly provide these things, and I am thankful...because I know through your love all things are possible. In Christ's name I pray. Amen!

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. (Ephesians-3:20)



As always, thank you for taking the time to read my blog! Now go forth, and keep it classy!

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

For my younger readers...

or perhaps readers with teens in your family...as someone who has always been a big girl, I understand, all too well, how hard it can be to find trendy clothing that is age appropriate. To this I say, DO NOT BE DISCOURAGED! With a bit of patience and knowledge, it is possible to find clothing that will work for you, and still be trendy. In this edition of the Big Girl Blog, I will provide tips and tricks for great looks for younger plus size women. As always, questions and feedback are welcomed!

1. As with my more mature readers, you must start with a foundation garment. Make sure your bra is the right size. And if you need help smoothing out your mid section, do not be afraid of the all in one, or shaping camisole. For someone who is still in school, the camisole may be a better choice...I can see where it could be a bit uncomfortable changing for gym, while wearing an all in one...lol. Check out my blog on foundation garments for more info...

2. Fit is VERY important. As mentioned in a previous blog, if your pants give you a muffin top, chances are you'll need to go up a size. Also, as hard as it might be to accept...as a plus size girl, you have to remember that styles that look good on your thinner friends may not always work for you. As your shopping for school clothes, or that perfect look for a night out with your friends, keep those thoughts in mind.

3. There are stores that cater to you, the younger plus size woman. If you haven't already, familiarize yourself with Torrid, and forever 21. And you may also find trendy/age appropriate items at Ashley Stewart, Lane Bryant, the Avenue, and Old Navy....you just may have to look a little harder.  Also, there are brands sold at Macys that cater to a younger plus sized clientele, i.e House of Derion and Babyphat. Don't be afraid to check them out also....but just a warning, these brands may be a bit more expensive.

4. See below for looks that could work for you. The idea is to use these looks as a guide on how to put together outfits that are cute and comfortable. And note, all of these items can be mixed and matched to create several looks out of a few pieces...

this entire look can be found at Torrid.com











This entire look can be found at oldnavy.com



the sweater and skirt can be found at oldnavy.com, the boots at dsw.com






Any of these outfits can be accessorised very easily with simple jewelry, and a great bag. And, they prove that plus size women of any age can still be stylish and trendy.

As always, thank you taking the time to read my blog. Now go forth, and keep it classy!



Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Let's face it...

There are days when we don't want to be bothered with having to put together the "perfect outfit", and spending the day in sweats seems way more appealing. Particularly on those cold and rainy days, or days when you simply don't have much to do....but you may have to run a errand or two. To that, I say go for it! I certainly have my go to "I don't feel like being bothered" get up...lol. The thing to remember is that comfort does not equal sloppy. There are ways to do a sweat suit and still look put together. In this edition of the Big Girl Blog, I will give tips on buying the perfect lazy day ensemble that can be comfortable, yet stylish. And please remember, I welcome questions, feedback, and suggestions!

1. What we all should stay away from are sweat pants with elastic at the ankles. Not only are they style-less, they are figure insulting (in other words, not figure flattering). Basically, would you want to walk around looking like this? (thank you people of walmart for the pic!)




2. Sweats with logos...please don't! No really, please DON'T! Particularly logos across the butt...unless your 12, there's simply no need for it. And truth be told, I don't like it on 12 year olds either! As always, there are exceptions to the rules: If the logo is small, and on the top/jacket, this is ok.  Also, be mindful of your foot wear. Stay away from shape ups, and other "clunky" sneakers...unless you're using them to exercise, there's simply no need to wear them in public. Try to go for stylish/feminine sneakers...see below for the look I've put together (both outfits can be purchased from Oldnavy.com, and the sneakers at Sketchers.com):



also, to add more variety, buy pieces that can be mixed and matched. For example, the bottoms can be worn with this:

and the top can be worn with these:

and the additional items can also be worn together as one look with the same sneakers shown above. Add a basic white tee underneath, simple hoop earrings, a great bag, and you're good to go!


As always, thank you for taking the time to read my blog! Now go forth, and keep it classy!





Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Clothing for the work place...is your attire appropriate?

Having a professional wardrobe can be tricky for a plus woman, right? WRONG! All stores that cater to plus size women offer pieces that are suitable, yet stylish for the work place. In this addition of the Big Girl Blog, I will offer tips and tricks on how to add affordable yet stylish pieces to your professional wardrobe. Or, if you have a few basic pieces in your closet already, you may be able to use this post to maximise what you already have! As always, feedback and questions are welcome!

The key to having a great professional wardrobe is to have several pieces that can be mixed and matched....a few basic bottoms with stylish tops, a few accessories, and shoes....you can literally turn one item into several different looks.


(the look below can be found at Lane Bryant and Ashley Stewart)
For example....take these basic black pants:

Pair with this top:  
add a simple pair of black pumps, wedges, or stylish flats, with simple accessories, and you have the perfect work outfit.

Now, take those same pants, and pair with something like this, which can be found at Lane Bryant...



also pair with simple black shoes, and simple accessories, and you  have another great look for the office.

                                                                 
Does your office do casual Friday?  If so, the main thing to remember is that this does not give you license to go to work in your PJ's, sweats, or anything of the like. Also, stay away from the skinny jean, leggings, and short anything...lol. Because you're in a professional environment, you should dress as such..even on casual Friday. With that said, something like this would be perfect: (the shirt and trouser jeans can be found at old navy, the shoes at target)





or, for the girl who  prefers a bit of  height...this would be a great alternative...
                                                                    
                                                    
again, pair with simple accessories, and your good to go!

In short, the moral of the story is...working in an office, or professional environment does not give you licence to be frumpy or sloppy. With these helpful hints, there is no longer any excuse!

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my blog. Now, go forth and keep it classy!
                                                        
                                                             

Thursday, June 14, 2012

My Review of Swimdress with White Side Bow

Originally submitted at OneStopPlus

Chic - pure and simple. Our plus size black swimdress is accented with a pretty bow at the top left. Plus size swimwear. Machine wash. Imported.

  • Bandeau-style black swimdress with contrast white band and bow at the top of the bodice
  • Removable/adjustable white strap, soft mo...


sexy and comfortable!

By Brenda from Fayetteville, NC on 6/14/2012

 

5out of 5

Waist: Feels true to size

Cup Fit: Feels true to size

Pros: Attractive Design, Slimming, Good Fit, High Quality, Comfortable, Flattering

Best Uses: Swimming, Tanning, Beach, Boating

Describe Yourself: Classic, Stylish

Was this a gift?: No

I purchases this for the cruise I just took. And while I bought 2 other suites with me, I lived in this one. I love that the straps are removable, and I wore it strapless every time. The lining has great support, and smooths out all of my bumps and bulges.It also gave me great breast support, even with out the straps (but at a C cup, I'm a bit small as plus sized girls go)...and Bonus! No tan lines! I got in blue, and the color is exactly as pictured. All in all, I highly recommend this suite.

(legalese)

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Hair...what does yours say about you?

Hair styling is very much a personal choice...whether you choose to keep it long, or short...chemically processed, or natural...it makes a statement about you, and your personal style. In this particular blog, I will give no specific do's or don'ts...but I will highlight some things that I have seen that are just wrong! With that said, this will probably be a fairly short post...but as always, questions and comments are more than welcome!

Multi colored hair...as in rainbow bright...why? No, seriously, why? Unless it is Halloween, there is no need for any person to walk around with the rainbow in their hair. It looks unprofessional for any job, and it sends the message that you don't really care about your appearance...which if you spent the time and money to do it, we know that couldn't be further from the truth! I'm all for the unconventional colored rinses (on DARK hair), and/or highlights...I have my own hair rinsed with red or plum(depending on how I feel when I get to the salon), but I have dark hair. So unless I'm in the sun, or really good light, you can't really tell. So basically, my question is, why would anyone want to walk around looking like this?



Hair Weaves...I have zero problems with weaves. However, I do have a problem with poorly done/kept weaves.  If you have kinky hair, but your weave is silky straight...and you didn't think to relax your hair before getting said weave, this is a problem. If you can see your tracks, because your natural hair was not blended properly, this is a problem. And lastly, if you can not afford to maintain your weave (i,e getting the tracks tightened, having it properly washed/styled, etc), then PLEASE don't get one to begin with! The last thing you want is to be walking around looking like this:

                                                   

The "natural look"...this will mainly apply to my African American readers...if you are going to do it, do it right! Make sure your hair is healthy, and you're using the right products for your hair. For tips and tricks, check out my girl Mznaturallife at https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/MzNaturalLife.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read the Big Girl Blog! Now go forth, and keep it classy!

Monday, June 4, 2012

So, I'm back from vacation...

and I have to say, I am NOT happy about it! lol... I had an amazing week, sunning and funning in the Caribbean. There was lots of great food, and cocktails, and I couldn't have asked for better company. We took a cruise (Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas) to Jamaica, Cozumel, and Labadee. There were beautiful sunny days, amazing beaches, and gorgeous night skies...with the moon and stars in all their glory! But now that I'm back to life and reality, it's time to blog about what I wore on vacation! Now, I will admit that I was terrible about having myself photographed everyday, but I did manage to get some decent pics. I will also admit that there were some hits and misses...I know what I think they are, and I'm interested to see what you all think. As always, feed back and questions are welcomed!



This was my "formal" look. The dress came from avenue.com, the shoes and Jewelry from payless.com, and the clutch from lanebryant.com.



                                    
          This is my swim suit cover, which I purchased from oldnavy.com. I love it! Very Comfy...







             This was my "smart casual" ensemble. The outfit came from onestopplus.com, the shoes from Oldnavy.com.





               I could not wait to wear this dress! I purchased this from Catos....and if your wondering what the big deal was with this look, scroll down a bit further, and check out the back!






           Ok, so it was pretty cloudy, and foggy when this picture was taken...but I loved this look too. Over all, it was super comfy, yet stylish....the whole look, from head to toe, can be found at oldnavy.com



            This was my absolute favorite outfit of the entire vacation. You can't really tell in the pictures, but the bottoms are "cargo" crops, in a dark olive green. I paired this look with the red ankle wrap sandals, which I featured in my summer events blog. I felt sassy and sexy in this look, and received several compliments....the best one, was that I "looked like a ray of sunshine"...lol.  The entire look, from head to toe, can also be found at oldnavy.com


As always, thank you for taking the time to check out my blog. Now, go forth, and keep it classy!

Monday, May 21, 2012

Summer Events-Do I have the appropriate attire?

During the summer season, you may find that you're invited to events where the way you are dressed is important. This could be anything from a wedding to a company pick-nick. As your preparing for an event, stop and ask your self, do I have the right outfit for this?
This edition of the Big Girl Blog will focus on do's and don'ts for summer events, and provide suggestions on what may be appropriate. And, as always, questions and suggestions are welcomed!!

1. Weddings: Summer weddings can either be casual or formal. Regardless of the type of wedding, there is one important rule to remember...NEVER EVER WEAR WHITE TO A WEDDING! Unless you are the one getting married, that is the ultimate don't. Why? Because etiquette dictates that the only woman that should be in any shade of white at a wedding is the bride.

Now, with that out of the way, lets tackle casual weddings first. Casual does not mean it's ok to go in khakis, and a button down. And I would hate to think that any woman would wear jeans to a wedding. So, the perfect compromise for something casual might be a pair of Linen pants, with a nice top, or a simple sun dress. See below for examples: The pants and dress can be found at www.onestopplus.com, and the top can be found at www.catherines.com




                                                    
For formal or black tie weddings, you'll need something that is classy and elegant. And, as far as I am concerned, formal doesn't necessarily mean you have to wear a dress. Pant suits are fine, as long as they are feminine. Also, this is an occasion where you want to keep the cleavage to a minimum, and the miniskirts hidden.  Lastly, you want to make sure your ensemble is age appropriate. Below, you'll find a dress that may work for someone who is a bit younger, and a pant suit for someone who is a bit more mature...both options come from onestopplus.com

Lastly, when preparing your outfit for either wedding scenario, there are two things to remember:
 1. It is the brides day, so she should be the ONLY one wearing any shade of white.
 2. unless you are part of the bridal party, do not wear any shade of the wedding colors (if the colors are black and white, I say this doesn't really apply, as long as you don't wear white).  If you are unsure as to what the colors are, the invitation is usually a good indication.

Corporate Summer Parties: This can run the gamete from formal to a BBQ. In either case, you want to make sure your attire is appropriate for the occasion. This means, little cleavage, no mini skirts, and y'all already know how I feel about short shorts...lol.  So with that said...

 If it is a formal, or black tie event, the same rules for formal weddings apply. Keep it classy, and age appropriate.

If it's a more casual affair, the same rules for the casual wedding would also apply. Again, keep it classy and age appropriate.

If it's a day time BBQ, or family day, this more than likely would be a very casual setting...so it would be perfectly fine to wear a nice pair of jeans, capris, or bermudas. I would keep away from T-shirts, unless they are company provided for the event. And again, age appropriate is a must! Any woman of any age could consider something like this: (the entire look can be found at oldnavy.com)


Now, I understand the ankle wrap is not for everyone...so for those who prefer not to, or who simply shouldn't wear them, consider something like this:
As always, thank you for reading my blog! Now, go forth and keep it classy!