...and Fashion for All!

Igigi Review

2007-03-23T13:28:00.000-04:00

I was lucky enough to have IGIGI send me one of their pieces to review. They sent me a lovely coverup coat for the fall/winter that I promptly bought. I can tell you that IGIGI's fit is fabulous. They have darts in just the right places to make sure the clothing falls where it should.

My current pick from the site is this pretty dress now that spring has sprung. I don't know about you ladies, but my arms aren't sleeveless-ready, and this color is fairly universally flattering. Looks great on pale women, olive skinned women (me), and African-American.

For those of you who want to go for a sleeveless look and something decidely springy and flirty, try the black and white polka dot dress. I love it!

This is my first piece from IGIGI, but it certainly won't be my last. If you're now wanting something from them, use the coupon below and enjoy!

Shame, Shame, I Know Your Name...

2007-02-08T15:25:00.000-05:00

I am a horrible fashion blogger. I have been absent for far too long, even during the second holiest of weeks, NY Spring Fashion Week. The nice people at Igigi even sent me something to review and I haven't been able to post anything.

*sigh*

Granted, life has been fairly tortuous as of late, but still. I'm working on a few pieces to come back to you handful of nice people who might actually read this little blog.

In the meantime, check out:

Igigi's new dress I love;
New York Magazine's Fashion Week Coverage;
and some cute sale tops from various brands at Macy's.

Be back soon, I promise!

New Year, New Clothes

2007-01-02T21:07:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year, all!

I was reading the very relevant publication US Weekly and I nearly fell over when I saw their clothing spread on plus-size items. They featured the size 12 Sara Ramirez, and of course the Queen (Latifah).

They featured a few of the usual suspects: Avenue, Old Navy, Kiyonna. They featured a gorgeous dress from A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz, but of course, I can't find it on the site (US is notorious for this). However, some of their dresses do go up to a 14 or 16, and are well worth a look.

The other surprise was Spiegel - I forgot that they made women's sizes. I guess now that they don't send the big catalogue to my mom anymore, it slipped my mind. Norma Kavali has a line for Spiegel and some of her items go up to a size XXL/20. Other Spiegel women's wear worth a mention is this shaper pencil skirt - which I am totally wishing that I had to wear with my new purchases from today.

I stopped into Lane Bryant today to see if there were any sale items worth picking up. The answer was no, but I did find these two shirts and actually bought them full price. The 'under' shirts are a nice silky/charmeuse material and very, very flattering. The black and grey one has my favorite sweater helper - a tie just under the bust. The polka dotted shirt with cropped sweater was a pleasant surprise - I didn't think I could pull off cropped. I also didn't flip up the cuffs though, and I don't plan to.

Since I'm into this whole I'm-30-and-fabulous thing, I wanted to look especially sharp the next couple of days at work (the actual birthday is Thursday).

Oh, and I heart Babsie D! I got the Kooba Ginger bag in black. I fell in love with it after she mentioned it in the comments - then I was at Starbucks the next day and saw a girl (who was probably born in the late 80s!) with the bag in suede. I took that as a sign. I never thought I'd splurge on a Kooba, but at that price, it wasn't too hard of a decision. Thanks, Babs! :-)

Seize the Opportunity...

2006-12-28T22:33:00.000-05:00

...to get three great dresses for amazing prices.

This simple, pretty, strapless number from Old Navy? $20. Or maybe something a little dressier, like this one from Newport News. Maybe something a little more casual, like this shirtdress from Torrid for $51.

Even if you don't have an occasion to wear them right now? These prices are good reasons to treat yourself. Happy New Year!

Handbag Dilemma

2006-12-27T17:13:00.000-05:00

I started this post yesterday and saved it...and now it's gone. Is this because I haven't switched to the new blogger? Grrrrr....

Anyway. I turn 30 next week and I've decided that I want to purchase a designer bag. I'm not talking about a $1200 one, like the Marc Jacobs bag du jour, but something along the lines of $300 like Michael Kors. My bags usually cost about $70 or less, for the exception of my one designer purchase a few years ago (Anya Hindmarch). I love them, don't get me wrong, but that's not something I choose to spend my money on. If I was spending upwards of a grand, I'd probably choose Chloe or Kooba. A girl can dream.

You don't see a huge number of designer bags in this town in the way of Marc or Chanel. We see more Coach than Chanel, more Dooney & Burke than Dior, and of course a lion's share of LV (which I happen to loathe). A bit of Gucci thrown in for good measure. My fellow DC fashion bloggers know there are some circles who are all about the label all the time. And us bag whores, we know that the Queen of ALL of bags is the Birkin by Hermes. I don't think I've ever seen one in the flesh, so to speak.

I was browsing eBay in search of a possible I'm-30-and-Fabulous bag, and came across a seller with not one Birkin but 41. FORTY-ONE. I believe they retail at $4,000 to start, and there's usually a years long waiting list. This seller's store has these various Birkins listed from $8K up to $25K. And there's a bid on a $20K bag! I don't understand this. It frightens me a bit, actually. These people have spent what equals someone's (decent) salary on Birkins...and will be making a small fortune if they all sell.

So far, I've got my sights set on this one from Mr. Kors. Weirdly, I keep coming back to the Marc stam bag...I would never, ever pay that much for a bag. Especially not when everyone from La Lohan and Kirstie Alley are carrying it. But there's something about it...I could always test drive the knockoff from AKO Style.

Then there's this much imitated motorcyle bag that I have loved ever since I saw it for the first time. The eBay person selling it says it's a Des Louis...which I've never heard of. They also throw the term 'le dix' around, which I know is usually attached to Balenciaga, which this absolutely is not. I'm not really sure what to make of it. It looks a lot nicer than most knockoffs I've seen, which usually strike me as too stiff. This looks soft and worn - but in a good way. And I love the color. Does anyone know anything about this brand?

Macy's Plus Size Selection

2006-12-18T16:20:00.000-05:00

I've imposed a shopping moratorium for myself since it's the holidays, and I need to be getting gifts for other people. However. I spent a couple of quality hours in Macy's on Saturday night and rediscovered their excellent plus size department. It was a sizeable chunk of the floor, I must say. And yes, some of the stuff in there isn't fit for women with fashion sense, but some of it is fabulous.

Like did you know that Nine West has a plus line? That you can get Jeanstar jeans for $21?

I scored this leather jacket in black - originally $229, marked down to $170 with 30% off, then 20% on that discount if you open a Macy's charge. Which I did. The final price came out to be about $110. It's very comfortable and it looks great. Of course, tomorrow the weather goes back to being seasonable and I'll have to go to my winter coat, but I'm still really pleased with this find.

The Budget Fashionista had a very interesting post on the state of plus fashion and why we're seeing less of it, it's well worth the read. As we all know, there is a demand for plus clothing that is every bit as fashionable as the 'straight' size fashions. But if we're not out there buying it, then it will absolutely disappear. So I contributed to the buying this weekend! On the other hand, and as Kathryn points out, the stores spend no money marketing these lines and these departments. It never ceases to amaze me how many great plus clothing sites are out there when I go digging around - so why aren't we seeing these things in the stores? Why does Macy's or Bloomingdales carry Kiyonna? Or Saks carry Elena Miro (I'm dying to get my hands on her stuff, it's amazing)

I don't know the answer. Although I will say that I am absolutely guilty of not wanting to spend hundreds of dollars on an outfit...but if I were a size 10, I wouldn't want to either. On that note, the fashion magazines really bother me in that respect - because we can all afford a Chanel dress? Come on! Even though we are the buying power for fashion, it seems to slip further and further away from us and what we want.

My apologies for the hiatus - it's that time of year!

'Tis the Season - to Shop!

2006-12-08T17:41:00.000-05:00

I'm awaiting something from Igigi that I will post about, but I have to rescue it from UPS jail since it came while I was away. And I haven't seen much that really interests me, but I also haven't been looking. Part of me thinks I haven't gone holiday shopping yet because I don't want to end up buying myself stuff!

But for those of you who are buying this weekend...for you, your friend, your sister, mom, whatever, here are some deals that I've gotten via email or otherwise. Happy Shopping!

Newport News is offering 20% off any purchase through Sunday, December 10. Use code 576.

Newport News also has a special winter sale open to subscribers/purchasers/whoever signs up for the email. But you have to use this link - looks like there's some cute stuff in there.

Old Navy has $5, $10, and $15 deals, as well as 10% off online orders of $75 or more. Use code MYGIFTSHOP.

Kiyonna has $15 off purchases of $150 or more (what's up gorgeous plum dress?) through December 31. Use code SUGARPLUMS.

Spend $60 at Size Appeal and get $15 Size Appeal bucks towards your purchase. Use code 15BUCKS.

Bling Fix

2006-12-04T21:55:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the hiatus - I was out of town last week on business.

I can't believe I haven't posted anything on jewelry, because jewelry is my favorite accessory. I was looking around in my bookmarks and here are some finds. B/c ladies, for the most part, it doesn't matter what size you are to rock out the bling.

I love this ring from Stars and Infinite Darkness. It's open in the back so it's adjustable, which is always nice, especially this time of year when it's cooler and your rings seem to slip off a bit easier (I lost my ring briefly while playing with my dog tonight). Another one from the same site, this is a ring inspired by the sparrow that sailors would tattoo on themselves for every 5,000 miles sailed. I love birds in design, and its inspiration is pretty cool.

One of my favorite sites that I found from the amazing Grace Bonney and her design*sponge blog is day-lab. They have really unique and beautiful pieces, and many of them are extremely reasonable. Like these sweet heart and star necklaces? Only $16. The leaf is available in silver and gold and only $12. My favorite is the flying birdie necklace, only $18, since it's a knockoff of the ever classy and gorgous Paloma Picasso's dove necklace from Tiffany's. And the blue box bling, incidentally, is my favorite-st silver necklace and I wear it almost everyday.

Another great site is a DC staple, Unsung Designers, and they have some interesting jewelry as well like this long gold rope with teardrop citrine. One more fabulous site is Moon and Lola - they have several necklaces in the bird design theme like day-lab, and as you can tell, I dig it. I have a major thing for owls and this cloissone one is too cute for me to not post. Moon and Lola earrings deserve a post of their own (actually, I'll probably post about earrings another time), but I love how simple and classy these leaves are, but still different.

And one more from Urban Outfitters. I love this!! And it even incorporates a little birdie on it, and it's only $18. I'm sold! I could post a million pieces, but I'll stop for right now. More to come another time...

'Tis the Season - Best Cocktail Dresses

2006-11-25T11:24:00.000-05:00

It's official. The holiday season is upon us, which means evening holiday parties for some. Sadly, I don't have any to attend (yet), or at least any that would call for a cocktail dress. But oh how I love them. Here are the season's best, in my humble opinion.

I love red, but I love burgundy even more. This dress from Size Appeal isn't quite burgundy, but the black overlay mutes the red into a beautiful color. The detail on the top of the dress is pretty, but subtle and I like the flowing skirt. Put on a shrug or a wrap, and you're ready to go. Dress, $52

This dress by Igigi is by far my favorite dress of the lot. It's a bit fancy, but it is so chic and gorgeous. I love this black/lacey/mesh/overlay look that's going on, as you can tell by my cocktail dress choices. I think is the standout of the bunch. Igigi also pairs this dress with a velvet bolero, $38. Dress, $209

Another pretty, full length dress by Igigi. I love this color. The website says it's blue and black, but in the photo it looks more green-ish to me, which is fast becoming my favorite of the season. The length, cut, and drapey-ness of the skirt looks to be very flattering. Dress, $129

A simple and beautiful dress by Torrid. I usually think their dresses are a bit flashy, but I love how clean this dress is. When you zoom in on the dress, the skirt has pretty lacy details. Here's another pretty wrap by Ann Taylor that compliments the Torrid dress. Dress, $80; Wrap, $68.

I. Love. This. Dress. by. Kiyonna. The grape color is amazing, and it's just a fun dress. However, if I were wearing it, I'd be wearing some highpower Spanx because I don't think charmeuse is the most forgiving fabric. But as you all know, I love Spanx. And I love this dress, so I'd do it! If you spend over $150, type in the code DRESSING for $15 off through Thursday 11/30. Dress, $156 (available beginning December 5).

Macy's plus size department is really coming up in the world. Here's a great little black dress that is once again, simple and flattering. All kinds of wraps would look great with this dress as well. Dress, $73.99

I could go on and on with cocktail dresses, and if I find anything really spectacular, I will of course post. I think these are the real standouts of the season so far. So go out, get dolled up, be beautiful, celebrate the season!

Chocolate and Mint and Robins Egg Blue, oh My!

2006-11-19T17:51:00.000-05:00

No, this isn't a post on Girl Scout Cookies and Tiffany's. I'm sure all you fashion forward folks have noticed these color trends started over the spring/summer and has been carried into the cooler months. I'm a particular fan of this combo because chocolate and various browns are great colors on me, but the lighter blues and greens aren't great matches for my olive complexion, and since the lighter hues are accents, everyone wins!

I was trolling Kiyonna and came across this gorgeous tie waisted shirt. As I mentioned in another post, the tie directly below the bust is really flattering, as this is the smallest area around on your torso. I'm also a big fan of dolman sleeves.

I have been coveting this coat from b&lu for months now.

You can layer any brown sweater with a blue or green tank underneath, like this v-neck from Old Navy and Old Navy crown t-shirt, which is also long so it can peek out in the vee and at the bottom. Also, check out these cute kicks from Payless in chocolate and blue.

You see a lot of chocolate/mint or blue in design these days. Since there are a bazillion design blogs, I'll leave it to the pros, but if you are looking for the best one (in my opinion), check out Grace Bonney's design*sponge. Grace inspired me to start this blog, months ago, and now her amazing blog is everywhere! She's fabulous, so check out her blog for the best in design.

Drew's Look - Plus Version

2006-11-17T09:31:00.000-05:00

As you all know, I'm a big fan of the Frugal Fashionista, and I was looking for some outfit inspiration. So I give you the fabulous Drew Barrymore and my interpretation of her chic look.

I've been looking for a reason to post this shirt from Kiyonna. When I zoom in on the fabric, you can tell they put stretch in the material. Which I (personally) think is a good thing. I think the belt and the cuffs add beautiful and fun detail to an otherwise basic shirt. These wide leg pants are from Igigi. I'm torn between these two clutches from Amici Accessories - this reptile print one is kinda cool and I love the vintage print one as well.

I just took a quick look through Payless, and oh girls, I think a visit is in my future soon. I would have posted a beautiful green pump by Abaete, but it's not working for me at the moment. Instead, I give you these round toed, very now heels for only $17, to finish it off.

Newport News $15 Sale Today

2006-11-16T11:50:00.000-05:00

I usually don't blog during a work day, but for those of you looking for a few staples or even trendy items for a few bucks, check out Newport News. Their prices are usually very reasonable and today they have a $15 shop. There isn't a whole lot to choose from for us fashionistas, but may I recommend...

This wine c olored dolman sleeved top - only goes up to XL. I have one from New York and Company that is very flattering and versatile. Then there's this twist back top that I think would be great for an evening out - this one is available in women's sizes as well. Then this beaded necklace top - the color isn't my favorite, but I think it's an interesting cut and the necklace has potential - also in women's sizes. I like the pairing with a pencil skirt (Torrid has some good ones this season).

This a pretty, almost vintage like clutch. And for you skinnier gals who can rock the wide belts, I love this corset belt. I think you could do a million awesome things with it. I'm also loving this stretch bracelet, so it will work for all ladies.

$15 bucks! Not too shabby!

Finds from Victoria's Secret

2006-11-13T22:48:00.000-05:00

Those are words I never thought I'd post on my blog. I realize this is more of a post for those of us plus size ladies who also fit into the XL sizes for shops like Vicki's. However, I think these finds are interesting and cute enough to post, not just your everyday sweaters and tops.

I have to qualify this first find with the fact that it might only look good on Gisele, b/c let's face it. She's Gisele. I think this sweater is first, a beautiful red and second, it's very interesting and could look fabulous with the right pair of black pants or skirt. It would also look great with your hair up or down, and all kinds of shoes. I'm thinking about getting it for my office holiday party.

The second find is a boyfriend cut v-neck cashmere sweater for $39. It comes in 8 colors, and I think all the colors are gorgeous (not a huge fan of the white though). I bought a black cashmere cardi from Filene's Basement with buttons and a tie and it's one of the nicest, chicest and flattering items I wear this season - with jeans, with a trumpet skirt, with pants, whatever. Vicki's has a long cashmere cardi too, minus the tie, also for $39. $39 for cashmere!! You could always find a skinny belt to put over this, though. It sounds weird, especially for us plus ladies, but don't knock it till ya try it!

On a completely unrelated (and slightly bitchy) side note, the model wearing the long buttoned cardi looks like a scared-to-death or severely confused cross between Shakira and Heidi Klum, but not nearly as pretty as either of them. I find this odd.

DC Street Style

2006-11-13T08:27:00.000-05:00

After catching up on my fellow DC blogger dc celine, I saw she added a new site to her links: panda head.

panda head is like the Sartorialist in NY - ph catches DC street style. I love it! Although I must say I'm a little disappointed in all the photos of girls in dresses/skirts and leggings, because we're not *all* fashion robots here in DC. And of course, that's just not a favorite look of mine this season. Also, I can't pull off the leggings look, so feel free to label me as jealous, b/c there are a couple of looks with the leggings that do look really nice.

On a side note, I'm glad to see that smoking is back in fashion. Take THAT you clean lung-ed people! Don't mind me, I'm just bitter that I gave myself till my 30th birthday to quit and 30 is creeping up and there's no nicotine patch in sight. Anyway...

Oh, and the picture of Tai Shan, the world's cutest not-so-baby panda, has no affiliation with panda head. I just like posting pictures of him.

Wrap Dresses

2006-11-09T22:42:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've got a thing for wrap dresses, but I've been very wary of trying them b/c they're not very forgiving around the midsection, which honestly isn't my best feature. Maybe someone slipped me a subconcious Diane VonFurstenburg hint or something. But here are my favorites, nonetheless, for those of you braver than I.

This zebra dress from b&lu could definitely be tricky b/c zebra print isn't exactly the easiest thing to pull off. I'm intrigued with it anyway. This ot her one from b&lu is also interesting to me for some reason, but still could be tricky. Still like it though. I can picture wearing the Daisy wedges with either of these. Of course a great staple would be tall black boots.

This first one isn't quite a classic wrap dress, but the print is nice and not as dangerous, and this has the rouching in the middle to distract from trouble areas. And another one from Size Appeal, although another touchy pattern. But a very, very cute dress, and I love the retro feel to it. I've always liked paisley patterns - when I was a teenager taking guitar lessons, my guitar teacher had this guitar that was pink paisley (no, he wasn't Prince's younger cousin) and it was my favorite. Anyway, this paisley one is from Igigi.

A must for any dress, in my humble opinion? Spanx. I bought my first pair for a dress I wore to a wedding over the summer and I was blown away over how big of a difference it made, in my eyes. And therefore, in my confidence. Since it was a summer wedding, I got the full tummy coverage/shorts combo since I didn't have to cover my legs. Here's a winter-worthy pair from Torrid, and only $20. I paid $36 for mine at Lane Bryant, and sometimes I can find them at Filene's basement. They really are hidden WONDERS.

My Last Few Purchases

2006-11-07T22:11:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the long absence, for anyone who might actually read this blog, besides my peeps dcceline and babsied. I've been completely uninspired by fashion lately, although two weekends ago I broke my fashion fast and bought a few items.

First stop, the Leesburg Outlets to get some fall shoes. I found four pairs: a pair of black boots (ankle but not the uber trendy ones you are supposed to wear with leggings or something else unflattering on me), a gorgeous black leather stacked wedges, heeled tailored round toed loafers in a gorgeous oxblood, and a pair of black and grey slip on sneakers. The best part? Two pairs were from Aerosoles, two from Naturalizer. I can't seem to find the Aerosoles, but here are the Naturalizer, and the black ones my favorite pair. And they come in wide, so I was happy. If I paid full price, you're damn skippy I was happy!

I've also test driven all of them for a full work day, which is about 2 miles from when I leave my apartment and when I get back, and they all were okay. I wouldn't live in them, but two miles is pretty good.

I decided to hit up Old Navy for some fall/winter staples like long sleeved shirts and sweaters. Pretty basic finds, but pretty colors. In addition to these, a couple of three quarter sleeve, scoop neck gathered cotton shirts in a nice burgundy (more on the pink side than red) and an eggplant color. I haven't figured out what I'm going to wear with the birdie shirt, other than jeans. And even that's iffy b/c I don't have a brown cover up/cardi. I also picked up two v-neck wool sweaters - one black, on eggplant. I almost picked up the color in the picture, but I have a sweater from Old Navy last season very similar to that color.

So yes, these finds are rather pedestrian, but my fashion gut tells me to stick to classic and flattering when I'm not loving the trends. I went on a date and wore the boots with jeans and my grey/black striped vee sweater from Old Navy that I blogged about, and then got to wear the black vee sweater with purple scoopneck and the new sneakers on the next date. And hey, I still got another date! So they're good purchases, methinks. ;-)

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2006-09-21T22:42:00.000-04:00

I'm headed out to San Francisco for work and a little bit of play for 10 days starting Friday. I'm hoping to have time to post some finds, but I might not.

So I'm going to take a moment to rant a little bit about the state of plus size and fashion.

As we all know, NY's Fashion Week came to a close recently. I didn't keep up with it as well as I should, and historically I haven't because quite frankly, I can't wear that stuff. Not only because most of it costs as much as a down payment on a condo in Montgomery County and that it's mostly ridiculous, but because the fashion houses don't deign to include anything over a size 6 in their arsenal. Stanley Tucci said it best in The Devil Wears Prada, "Size 6 is the new 14".

The Budget Fashionista, a well respected blogger and author, had a run-in with the folks from Lycra. I also heard rumblings that the Trashionista wasn't treated very well in some instances because of what she was wearing.

While Lycra made it up to the Budget Fashionista, and being treated like dirt at Fashion Week isn't exactly news, I just think it's a sad state of affairs.

None of this is exactly news, but the reason why I'm trying to stake my little spot in the blogosphere is because I may not be a size 6, but it doesn't mean that I can't look great. It also doesn't mean I should be treated differently. That goes for any woman, no matter what.

Not a sermon. Just a thought. Or a few. Whatever.

Do we really need this crap?

2006-09-20T08:46:00.000-04:00

I often get great websites from magazines, other websites, and other blogs. I was scoping out this scarf on a post from MightyGoods and thought I'd check out the rest of the website for American Apparel.

I almost always head straight towards the accessory section of new websites, and I found some questionable items there like the shiny stirrup tights. Who in the Christ would need these, other than those who have access to the way-back 80s machine? Of course, you might just want to look ROCKIN' like the chick in the photo. Carry on, of course.

Don't you hate it when your life savers packet falls apart in your bag? Do you have $600 burning a hole in your pocket? Well, Judith Leiber thoughtfully has this solution for you. The jeweled candy holder for your stylish, yet overpriced and superfluous, life saver emergencies. Unfortunately, it cannot turn your yellow and green life savers to red.

Another dilemma...how do you combine couture with your favorite animated characters? Tarina Tarantino has the answer to this one - Swarovski glass dipped pearls and crystal beaded stretch cuff bracelet all beautifully surrounding this Hello Kitty plate. It is a steal at $95.

If you have any...ahem, jewels...worth sharing, let's see what we didn't even know we absolutely needed!

Weekend Fashion Finds and Observations

2006-09-18T08:25:00.000-04:00

I usually can't keep myself out of the stores over the weekend, and this one was no different. Although I was very modest in my few purchases.

Old Navy has been good to me over the last few months, so I headed over there. I think their sizes for their tops are running a little larger these days. A year ago, I was shopping almost solely in their women's plus section. In most bottoms like slacks and denim, I am still in their women's plus. But in their tops, I'm an XL rather than XXL in many cases. Granted, I've lost about 25 lbs since last year, but I'm noticing more room in their tops, which is a good thing b/c it gives us plus ladies that are sort of in between a few more options. Anyway, I ended up getting this cute striped sweater. Stripes are everywhere this season! I especially like the little flare on the sleeves. I'll be in San Francisco at the end of the week and will be hitting the women's plus section there and just a bigger store, so really, I'm just saving myself.

After a trip to Ulta, I decided to wander into Ann Taylor Loft to look at jewelry, but I ended up browsing the racks. The two most popular colors I saw everywhere I went this weekend? Black and peacock teal. Which is great news, b/c those are two of my favorite colors. I decided to try a few tops on at Ann Taylor, and guess what? Their XLs fit. I'm a size 18/20 usually, but in tops can go down to 14/16 depending on the style. The items I got were on sale, so I have no pictures but they were a peacock teal, lace trimmed cami and a deep v neck knit shirt that hits well below the waist. Can't wait to wear it.

As I do every weekend, I hit Target to pick up household stuff, but I of course look at the clothes. I did very well by Target over the spring/summer season. I scoured the racks for about 40 minutes and found next to nothing. And I got increasingly frustrated as I went. Why? The women's section was the most pathetic thing I have seen in months. Even Liz Lange (maternity) had more options, and much cuter ones than women's. They were still displaying a lot of the same sorry leftover fashions from the summer...which no one bought. The sale racks were shoved in between the 'new' racks for women, and then sandwiched in between maternity and workout clothes. I did see some cute cropped pants and went to try them on. A 20 didn't fit! Which is pretty much unheard of for me these days, when shopping in women's sizes. I have plenty of 20s from Merona and Mossimo, but today? Nope. However, I do recommend you try these on b/c they will look great with tall boots. My lone purchase, this cowl neck tank in a beautiful deep green from Mossimo (misses, not women). This picture doesn't show the green that I bought, I can't find that on the site, or the color is not represented well on the site. Also, there is a plus size option. Cowl necks are also everywhere this season. I saw at least two different cowl neck items at each store this weekend. I played with options for the cowl neck and it looks great with pants, long skirts, a trumpet skirt, trouser shorts. But since the weather is turning cooler, it needs a cover up. I got this cape cardigan one from Target. This link only shows it in grey, but they did have black at the store.

I also got a very pretty kimono sleeved jersey shirt at NY & Company (Lerner). The material is very thin, so I have to wear a tank under it, but I looooove it. I wore it yesterday with jeans, flats, and a tank underneath and I think I've found a new fool proof casual outfit for this in between season.

Torrid - nothing. Lane Bryant - nothing. Very sad state of affairs. I have a lot more to say about the state of fashion vs. plus size, but I'll save that for another day. Happy Monday everyone!

Kate Hudson's Outfit - the Plus Version

2006-09-12T21:36:00.000-04:00

I'm a big fan of the Frugal Fashionista blog. It's a great idea, and the outfits they pick to give info on are super-cute. This post caught my eye b/c I think Kate Hudson looks fabulous. I think she looks fabulous most of the time, especially now that she might have snagged herself a Wilson brother (even if it isn't the really cute one…I think Luke Wilson would be nice arm candy…) Ahem. I digress.

I'm not sure that as a plus-size fashionista I could pull off this look (pic from Frugal Fashionista), b/c I have tried the wide belt thing and I just can't drop it like it's hot. Although, this look reminds me of a cardigan that has caught my eye at Old Navy. I noticed it a couple of weeks ago and I keep wandering back to it. I haven't seen it in store, so I don't know what it looks like on. It looks really interesting though. I have something somewhat similar in much looser knit that hits below the knee and it looks really nice. Methinks this sweater has potential. Also comes in black.

Especially if you other plus-ionistas (does that sound dumb? Probably.) can rock the wide belt, then try it. Here are the rest of the pieces, in plus versions. My denim savior is Jeanstar, which you can purchase at Macy's (formerly Hecht's, Foleys, etc). I have this pair of jeans and I worship them. The color is close to Katie H's too.
This is the closest belt I could find just doing a quick search. White tank - you can take the belt off, I believe, and I actually think it's kinda cute - might look cute under the sweater if you decide against the belt over the whole ensemble. Can't beat Frugal-Fashionista's find of those leopard flats for $17!

And just because, here's a cute new bag style from AKO, who partners with Frugal Fashionista. It's also a Fiori inspired, which obviously I'm seriously digging (see my previous post on fall bags from AKOStyle).
If you ladies have any requests to replicate outfits for plus-size, send them in. I'll do my best!

Cute + Comfy Shoes

2006-09-10T22:45:00.000-04:00

After about the 7th compliment on my shoes Friday (about half from strangers), I figured I should post the find. I've gotten lots more compliments since I bought them a couple of weeks ago, so I'm sharing the comfort and style love. You're not limited to black either, they have lots of colors both practical and fun. They have the Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insert built into the sole, so I don't need to tell you how nice this is on your feet. And they are breathable. The web is putting them at $69.99. I found them at an outlet in Delaware for $55, and then my friend had 20% off. So if you're near any Naturalizer outlets, I would try there for the savings. I'm actually kicking myself for not buying another pair.

I also saw these shoes that I think are adorable for the fall. Would look great with skirts, work pants, and jeans. Also Naturalizer. I'm digging the retro touches this season.

Cute and comfy, baby, can't beat it. Check out the rest of what Naturalizer has to offer - I find that it's hit or miss but the hits are worth digging through the misses.

Bringing Sexy Back - the Little Black Dress

2006-09-10T09:04:00.000-04:00

The Little Black Dress (LBD) has been drilled into our heads as a wardrobe staple for as long as we've been reading the fashion mags. But rarely do these spreads on the LBD include plus size options. Here's ours!

The basic wrap dress - great for work, dinner with friends in the city, even a date. I like how Igigi paired the dress with the tall boots (see the previous post on fall boots for a few options). This LBD can be dressed up a little bit with heels for a Friday night out. The best part about this LBD? It's only $67.

A more casual option, this retro black eyelet dress from Torrid. I could see it at work with a cute sweater/cardi/shrug over it and t-strap heels to complete the retro look.

The fabulous Kiyonna has a whole section devoted to LBDs, and these are my favorites. I've been eyeing this lace cocktail dress forever. Now that fall/winter is on the way, this could be worn out for a dressier evening out - you know, Butterfield 9 instead of Bennigans - and then to any sort of cocktail event/holiday party. Another one from Kiyonna is the waist tie dress. Okay, so it's not actually black, but it's still beautiful and that chocolate and magenta color combo is very flattering. Lisafashionista at the also fabulous BeautyPlusPower is a fan of Kiyonna and has posted on their pieces as well, including this dress. It's just so pretty, it warrants as many mentions as possible.

So go ahead. Get your sexy on. And not just because Justin Timberlake said so.

The Awkward In Between-Summer-and-Fall Transition

2006-09-06T22:37:00.000-04:00

While I love fashion, there are many things about the fashion world that I can't stand. One of those things is the push by retailers into fall clothes in August, when it's still 90 degrees out. I started this post in August, and now in the first week of September, we actually have an early taste of fall with weather in the 70s. This week is a bit warmer, but the following clothes work for this in-between time.

A little bit of something summer/something fall that I purchased in August then put together that worked really well both last month and now...these great shorts from Lane Bryant. There is also the subtle pinstriped variety. Better to take a look at them in the store, but they look just as great as the solid colors. Maybe even a bit more polished. I was initially really skeptical of this look, but I tried it and it really does look chic. And paired with heels, my legs look long and more shapely.

I paired them with a kimono shirt from Target I got at the beginning of the summer season, but check out these alternatives. Try this kimono sleeved top from Old Navy Women's Plus or this one also available in regular sizes. My black one makes me look 10 lbs thinner - I'm shocked that stripes and 'thinner' go together. Or the gorgeous greenish/blue one from Kiyonna. Love that color.

And to finish off, I wore these much imitated shoes. Mine are from Payle ss, on sale for $20 (mine are in black though, check your local store). Or get them from Target in black patent leather or brown suede for $26.99. Not into wedges? Check out these heels, also from Payless, available in wide for $14.99, which is why I bought them. One more pair of shoes - Stella Round Toe Wedges, Xhliration by Target and so freaking cute with the shorts and with long pants. And like I said in my last post, the Black Anika boots from Torrid look awesome with the shorts. I can't wait to wear the boots with the shorts.

Bonus? These will all translate into fall either together with a jacket + patterned tights or separately with other items, like the aforementioned boots (don't need tights!). I saw a gorgeous photo of that in September's Lucky. These herringbone tights are really pretty and would look great with either of the shoes above.

Happy not-quite-fall, everyone!

Wide Calf Boots

2006-09-04T22:06:00.000-04:00

As promised, here are some choices for those of ladies who need a little extra room.

As always, Torrid has a fairly wide selection for pretty good prices. I have found with Torrid shoes that they are not always the best quality, but if you're looking at a pair of boots that are somewhat trendy for the season, spending under $60 is a good idea. My favorites are the Black Anika Faux Suede and the Brown Katie Double Buckle Slouch Wedge. The black ones would rock a skirt, knee length or longer and the camel ones are just a gorgeous color and easier on the feet.

I am happy to report, that as a dutiful fashion blogger, I have bought the Anika Faux Suede boots in black and they in fact rock knee length skirts, a long black skirt, and the work-worthy bermuda shorts (post to follow soon - it's been in the works for awhile since blogger hasn't been letting me post pictures).

You'll notice that I'm not recommending boots with heels like this. I happen to love them, but for me, I walk kinda hard and I end up messing up these kinds of heels where the little protective end on the heel gets worn off. You can have them replaced for about $10, and as a matter of fact, I have a pair of slingbacks that I love and that I have had the little guys replaced. Please note that I am not suggesting anyone wear lavander or leopard print boots, but the style is nice and you can get them in solid colors.

Silhouettes has some great choices with prices from $60-$120, like the aforementioned pointy toed/heeled variety. Then these black ones - they're Naturalizer, so they're probably uber-comfy. Finally, these dress boots are a little more expensive at $149 but fabulously classic.

Go forth and look sexy!

Finally! Fall boots...

2006-09-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

As a budget fashionista (in my way of course), I can't stand it when the Washington Post Express does their fashion spread each Friday and have items on there with prices that add up to the GDP of a small African nation. Today, I was shocked to see my favorite pair of boots from their feature was only $90. For high boots, that's pretty good.

Granted, they also have boots from Michael Kors and Stella McCartney that combine to be more than my monthly rent. But I think this is at least a step in the right direction. Check out their picks here, go to page 51. My favorite is number 3 (pictured). Love number 2 as well.

Wait! It gets better! Turns out the boots pictured are actually $39.50!

Only one small problem...my calves can't fit into any of these boots. I didn't seek out high boots last fall/winter, but this year I think I will. So more to come for those of us who need a little extra room. But here's something for the rest of you. Hey, I did say it was fashion for ALL. And boots like this for $40 is always worth a post!

Fall Bag Preview

2006-08-23T22:37:00.000-04:00

Or at least, what I'm eyeing for the fall season.

A little background on me and bags. I love (most) designer bags, but I don't love kicking down more than $100 for a bag. And when I buy one, it's usually for a good 2-3 months of a season. I'm also into big bags because I commute from the Maryland suburbs into DC everyday and carry all my normal stuff plus a book or magazine, sometimes files back and forth from work, sometimes a pair of flip flops. And hey, I just like them bigger. Mind out of the gutter, girls...anyway...all reasons why you will see me feature mainly big bags on this site.

Thanks to the fab site Frugal-Fashionista introducing me to AKOstyle.com, this gem of a website offered up my three favorites:

The first bag is a Fiori knockoff for $33. Love both the black and brown colors. The second is another Fiori knockoff, and I looooove the oxblood color. The last one incorporates suede, which I'm looking forward to wearing in the cooler weather - this one is $32.

I'm leaving most heavily on the first one, in brown since I already have a black and gold studded leather bag that I used last year and still love it.

More bag bargains to come! And sorry for the sub-par photo. Best I could do since Blogger is putting a serious crimp in my fresh to death style.

Supa Dope Fashion Sense

2006-08-22T23:08:00.000-04:00

Blogger is putting a huge damper on my posting style b/c it won't let me post any freaking pictures. And what is a fashion blog without pictures? Thanks a lot, guys.

In the meantime, I found the perfect description of my fashion sense, thanks to Kanye West. How did he know?

"...really dope sense of style that's fresh to death."

Thanks, Kanye. See, y'all? Kanye knows. Trust.

With Beauty...and Fashion...For all!

2006-08-14T23:32:00.000-04:00

I'm certainly not the first fashion blogger out there, not even the first plus-size fashion blogger. However, I still think I can contribute to the plus-size fashion blogosphere. You'll see postings dealing with all sizes though and any other interesting tidbits. even the occasional fashion rant in general.

Like the rest of you, I've noticed the complete lack of a devoted plus-size fashion magazine on the racks (b/c Figure is a glorified catalogue of Lane Bryant). thankfully, we have the web to turn to, but I'd like to make this blog an amalgam of my favorite magazines: Glamour, Marie Claire, and my personal favorite, Lucky. I'm always reading/finding new stuff to look up, so I'll be posting my finds here.

I was also inspired by fellow bloggers and their fabulous sites that I visit daily like Beauty Plus Power, Fatshionista, the Budget Fashionista, and Design*Sponge too many others to list in this paragraph. I plan to give credit where credit is due every single time b/c my closet would be nothing without all the fabulous people at the above magazines and blogs.

I hope this blog becomes an information exchange as well. Please email me any tips, stories, things you'd like to see, etc. I'd like to start features of the week/month/etc. so let me know what you'd like to see (find of the month? emerging trends? one piece, four outfits?). And not only fashion, accessories, all the rest of the accoutrements.

And let the games begin...