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!