on plus-size dressing
Earlier this summer, I had the privilege of giving style makeovers to three teachers for the National Education Association‘s Back-to-School video series. A couple weeks ago I featured on Alexandria Stylebook the first teacher, Bernadette, highlighting some quick, easy style tips on how to get a more polished look.
Today’s teacher, Araceli, was the second teacher I styled. I loved her warmth, humor and intelligence. She is a guidance school counselor at an El Paso, Texas highschool and is one of those teachers that all the students love. Her office has become a place that kids congregate. You remember those teachers, don’t you? The ones you felt truly got you and had your back? Araceli is that teacher.
Araceli is plus-size and told to me a few times during our time together how frustrating it is to find clothing that fits and makes her feel good. It is a frustration I am familiar with. The main complaints logged by my plus-size clients (and me as their personal stylist) is clothing not fitting properly, or looking/feeling as stylish as they want.
Although not ideal yet, things are moving in a better direction. I was determined to put together looks for Araceli that a woman of any size would love to wear.
Araceli peppered me with questions during our styling sessions, which I answered in great detail. I wanted her to walk away empowered, with new knowledge to get her where she wants to be style-wise. Here are a few points we covered and some of my answers:
Where can I find clothing locally that is my size and fits well?
The most well-known plus-size retailers are Lane Bryant and its sister store, Catherine’s. Lane Bryant is trendier and Catherine’s more classic. I shop Nordstrom, primarily, for plus-size. It is important to know that Nordstrom carries 14W-24W, Lane Bryant to a 14W-28W and Catherine’s a 14W-32W. However, the Catherine’s I have shopped at only go to a 28 in stores.
What are your favorite plus-size clothing brands?
The clothing brands I gravitate toward are “straight size” brands and retailers that also feature plus-size. I love Karen Kane and Vince Camuto–both are available at Nordstrom. I also shop ASOS Curve and ModCloth.
A few other straight-size retailers that offer plus-size options:
– J.Crew has a size 16-20 section online only
– Ann Taylor offers sizes 16-18 online only. In stores up to a size 12 or 14.
– Talbot’s carries Woman Plus and Petite Plus, lines that features sizes 12W-24W, but only online.
I like the on-trend pieces from Eloquii, which re-launched last year online. And, most recently, I am excited to try Melissa McCarthy‘s new line available at Nordstrom!
Where do I start when deciding what brands and styles work for me as a plus-size woman?
My good friend Alison Gary of Wardrobe Oxygen uses Gwynnie Bee–a clothing rental subscription service that features sizes 10-32. You can give different plus-size clothing brands and styles a spin, then decide what works for you.
What should I avoid?
One garment that I see over and over again in plus-size departments and retailers is what I call “The Curvy Girl T-shirt.” It has this scarf-like hem and flares out toward the bottom. It usually is made out of jersey, has a tunic length and “wings” that cascade out and down from hips. I avoid these t-shirts like the plague. The idea is that they will accommodate fuller hips, but the effect is always maternity with a dash of matronly. No and no. I would opt instead for a regular t-shirt or woven cotton blouse that has good weight and skims the body.
How can I accessorize for my plus-size body type?
I tell my plus-size clients — don’t be afraid to try something bold! Larger jewelry looks great; smaller jewelry can sometimes get lost. My favorite accessory for plus-size clients is a large pendant necklace. A longer necklace elongates your neckline/torso. A bold pendant makes a statement. Adjust the length of the necklace so the pendant rests right at the start of your bustline. That way you don’t get that awkward swinging of the pendant over your bustline.
Available at The Shoe Hive.
Carry a purse that is proportionate to your frame. My favorite purse styles for plus-size clients is a large tote or satchel. For evening, an oversize envelope clutch works great!
Currently available at The Shoe Hive.
This is the first of a three-part series where I discuss, in detail, style tips I used when I worked with three El Paso, Texas teachers earlier this summer. The videos produced by Sapling Pictures are for National Educations Association’s Back-to-School series.
- About the company
DC Style Factory is a personal shopping and styling service for men and women looking to add polish and individuality to their wardrobes. We believe personal style is for anyone who wants it — regardless of age, size or budget.
2 Comments
Yes to all of this!! Especially the “curvy t-shirt” — yuck!! My motto is to dress for the body you have NOW, not the one you wish you had! And there is no sense in trying to cover everything up – no one thinks you have skinny arms underneath that awful, long-sleeved sweater…especially in the summertime!
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