The average woman in America is a size 12. Believe it or not, size 12 is considered "plus size" in a lot of brand names and department stores! Too often I talk to people, or see people, that have "given up" because they've been slapped with the "plus size" label, and are forced to shop in certain (usually very small) sections of stores, picking out basics with no flair or personality.
I've put together a few looks I think are flattering to EVERY body type, but more specifically, things to look for when shopping in a "plus" size. There are also some great websites out there with a really nice selection of apparel, accessories, and shoes. (websites posted below)
But for now, here's an explanation of the collage i've put together for those fashionista's who don't fit the size 2 mold!
dresses. A staple in most women's closets. These three colors/styles are obviously only a sample of the many options curvy girls have. Wrap dresses emphasize the smallest part of your waist, and the way the fabric drapes does a great job of camouflaging what you'd rather not flaunt, and flaunting what you like! Also, the V-neck wrap dresses elongate your neck, and bring the focus to your face. Another dress in the collage features ruching - a technique where fabric is sewn to look "gathered". This gives the illusion of a slimmer tummy and hips. My advice would be to go for a bright solid, or a larger print dress. Just stay away from horizontal stripes!
jeans. I don't know about you ladies, but i LIVE in my jeans when I'm not at work. There are a lot of choices when you are shopping for denim, and it can be overwhelming and, quite frankly...depressing! An important thing to remember when shopping for jeans, is to try on A LOT of them. Don't expect to go in and out quickly - allow yourself some time, and understand that brand sizing runs differently...sometimes by a lot, so bring in different sizes. Allow the store specialist to help you find a fit that works best for you. An ultra-flattering cut is the trouser jean. Trouser jean means just that: it's cut like a trouser..meaning it goes straight down, with no tapering in at the knees, which can make you look even heavier in the tummy and hips. Dark denim is the most flattering and also provides the most versatility; you can dress it up or down. Above I've paired the dark denim trouser jean with an empire waist top in a fun color. The top emphasizes your waist (we love that), and gives this a girly, laid back look.
the office. Depending on how casual or dressy your office environment is obviously affects your choices to wear to work. In my collage I have two looks that could potentially be work-appropriate, depending on where you spend 8 hours a day..and also, great examples of flattering looks! The first (far right) is a high waisted black pencil skirt. Something you can dress up 1,000 different ways. I've paired it with a floral tank, tucked in, with a wide belt. The black blazer cinches in at the waist and has three buttons - a must. Stacy and Clinton (from What not to Wear) call that "locked and loaded"...meaning, it's slimming and pulls you together very nicely. That blazer can easily go over a more casual tank or graphic tee, with your new trouser jeans!
The second look (far left) is for a more casual office. The army green chino's are straight leg, meaning it has the same slimming effect as the trouser jean. The top is fun and bright, and has an empire waist to accentuate the positives. :) I added the leather jacket for interest, and also as a finishing piece for a more casual work (or date!) outfit. Pair with a fun bag, bold accessories, and heels!
foundations. This may seem obvious, but it's actually overlooked a lot. The right undergarments are crucial for any girl, but "plus sized" girls especially. The right foundation can make you look 10 pounds thinner..and more importantly, will be comfortable for you to wear whatever you want and feel confident!
shoes. Accessories (such as scarves, jewelry, bags, glasses, and shoes) are a personal choice, as with everything I'm mentioning today. But there's a reason models on the runway usually wear nude pumps - they elongate your legs, making you look taller and thinner. The higher you can go the better, just make sure you can walk in them comfortably. Also, stay away from shoes with an ankle strap: the look "cuts your leg off", making bare legs look shorter.
My best advice to curvy girls would be to be patient. Unfortunately most stores cater to sizes 0-6 (which is awful for smaller and bigger girls alike!), so it will be a little more difficult to find what you're looking for. Below is a list of plus-sized websites that I've checked out, and they have some great stuff! Also remember, not all trends are right for any persons's body. Just because it's "on trend" doesn't mean you HAVE to have it, even if you love it. If it doesn't fit your body right, don't do it. AND also, just because it's in the store or on the website, doesn't mean it's on trend! Sometimes the selections aren't fashionable...don't get discouraged!
Don't be a slave to trends, dress your body how you feel most confident! Fashion should be fun, and there's no reason women of all shapes and sizes can't be fashionistas!
list of plus size-friendly websites!
If you have a specific blog request, please send it my way! I had a lot of fun doing this, hope you guys enjoy it! (:
I've often searched for remedies of my OPS (over-packing-syndrome), but always end up reverting back to bringing 10 outfits for a 2 night trip. Until one day I saw my friend Chrissy (check out her blog: Chronicles of Chrissy)! tweet a picture before a cruise she took. 
I've often searched for remedies of my OPS (over-packing-syndrome), but always end up reverting back to bringing 10 outfits for a 2 night trip. Until one day I saw my friend Chrissy (check out her blog: Chronicles of Chrissy)! tweet a picture before a cruise she took. 
