Yves Saint Laurent said, "Fashion is fleeting....style is eternal."
Curvy women come in all sizes. But a Bebe brain mixing with a Lane Bryant body can be a challenge. But finding your inner Femme Fatale and outer Fashion Goddess is easier for some gals and tougher for others. I'm a former plus-size model, and a professional fashion illustrator, but I've been through my fair share of fitting room anxiety and fashion freakout meltdowns. Let me share some style secrets I've picked up along the way, from working the runway to working for magazines and major fashion and retail houses.
1. A Great fit is fashionable- If you have to fuss and tug at your outfit, it doesn't fit right. And that's never stylish. Invest a few dollars in alterations. A customized fit from a tailor, or seamstress at your local dry cleaner can make even that $5 clearance item look like it cost a mint! Dress for the size you are-not what you once were or hope to be.
2. The LBD is always in style- Take a cue from Coco Chanel in the twenties, to Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's in the sixties, to SJP in Sex and the City. These style icons taught us never to worry about being unfashionable because the little black dress always in style. No matter what your size, It's the classic choice, the sassy choice, the sexy choice, and the flattering choice, Spring, Summer, Fall and winter. Everyone looks great in a little black dress.
3. Statement jewelry is your friend- Girls, the only chunky thing about you should be an accessory. Think big when it comes to the baubles, babe! Choose either a sizable necklace, watch, ring, or earrings, and make it a focal point. If you pressed for creativity, wear a white button-down under a great jacket with jeans and then feature the single amazing accessory to draw the eye wear you want it to go. Viola'!
4.Find a firm foundation- Be sexy and comfortable underneath your clothes! Proud, confident, voluptuous women know the most important thing is SHAPEWEAR! Forget ugly panty lines and bulges putting the wrong curves in the wrong places! Underwear can make or break your outfit, creating a smooth, seamless look. I'm a fan of Spanx.
5. Wear natural fibers- Polyester is divine if your a character in a John Waters movie, but curvy gals should shroud themselves in fabrics that both breathe and drape well. If you're not finding friendly fibers at the mall, I'll tell you my secret source: The internet. It's that thing you're reading this with now. I love shopping on Etsy where I can score fab fashions that are custom made for a fair price. And ebay ain't so bad ladies. If you want to push your pinup side and but the bomb in bombshell, gals can always find unique curve conscious clothing at sites like Pin Up Girl Clothing and trashydiva.com (don't let the name scare you- they have lovely pieces).
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