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Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Plus-Size 101: A crash course in dressing for all sizes- PART DEUX


A
fter writing the first part of this article I received some really awesome feedback and felt it was necessary to write a second part to this piece. In this article, I will focus mostly on covering a very common problem area: the chubby tummy. However, I also feature some really great plus-size clothing that will hopefully give you some inspiration for your next shopping trip!

I love TLC's What Not to Wear with Stacy London and Clinton Kelly. The twosome made a series of fashion tip videos back in 2009, and one in particular focuses on this exact issue! Check it out here (and try to ignore the echo). I will summarize their tips, while adding some of my own advice in the mix. Enjoy!

Tip 1: Buy a Structured Jacket

I agree with Clinton, even if you don't have an hourglass shape, the curving of the jacket will create a nice feminine shape for you! I think blazers are the best, but I'm also a firm believer that everyone should own a leather jacket.


Talbots Venetian Wool Blend Short Jacket (available up to size 20)
J.Jill Shimmer Linen Jacket (available up to size 4x)
Torrid Heather Grey Blazer

Tip 2: Accentuate the Smallest Part of Your Frame

This means the bust line! Find a bra that will keep your girls where they are supposed to be! Creating a noticeable difference between your bust and your stomach is key. This also means hunting for dresses and tops that have thick or ruched bands. Beware the empire dress- sometimes it can be cute and flowy, and other times it will make you look completely preggo.



ASOS Fitted Sundress (available up to size 20)
Jessica Howard Plus-Size Woman Belted Dress (available up to size 24)
3 J Workshop by Johnny Was, Salon Z Christy Peasant Dress (available up to size 24)



Tip 3: Try V-Necks

V-necks make you look like you have a longer neck, which will add to an overall long-and-lean appearance. Add in a nice piece of statement jewelry and you will draw attention towards your beautiful face and away from your troublesome tum.


Johnny Was, Salon Z Striped V-Neck Floral Tee
Torrid Lace-Trimmed Crinkle Tank 
Sweet Pea by Stacy Frati Short Sleeve Mesh Shirt (Plus) 

Tip 4: Buy Dark Jeans That Fit
Although Stacy and Clinton didn't mention this in their video, but everyone should ALWAYS avoid the evil muffin-top. Pick jeans that fit! I believe dark washed jeans make all the difference in the world. Mid-rise jeans are a good choice for plus-sized girls. Also, avoid jeans with whiskers on the upper thigh, as they will make your hip area look wider than it actually is.


Torrid Dark Warn Well Skinny Bootcut Jean
CJ by Cookie Johnson 'Grace' Bootcut Jeans (Cosmos Wash)
Z. Cavaricci Couture- Luca Wash Sophia Bootcut Jean

That's all for now! Was this post helpful? Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Great blog post! I have a troublesome chubby tummy and hate it!! I manage to always wear dresses though, coz on jeans I hate the 'muffin top' look that i get...
Enjoyed reading this :) x

Kristina said...

HELLOCATHERINE: Thanks for the feedback! I know what you mean about the muffin top...mid-rise jeans are the best jeans for chubby tummies because high rise jeans just make it look like you're pregnant under your denim and low-rise make muffin top even worse. Glad you found this post helpful!!

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