Look cool, collected and hawt, while others are melting in the sun.
- Stella Ellis, BettyConfidential.com
The important thing is that we accept ourselves. When we accept ourselves, the rest of the world will too. Or they won't - but that will be their problem. Throughout my entire life, I have been a full figured woman. I will never be a size 0, 4, or even a 10, but that does not stop me from looking my best, like Amber Riley from Glee. As the weather heats up, I grab the opportunity to wear sexy clothing, break out my great summer accessories, and flaunt my full hourglass-and-a-half figure in yet another season.
As a make-up artist, full-figured runway model in Paris fashion week, world traveler, and author of the new book, Size Sexy: How to Look Good, Feel Good, and Be Happy-at Any Size, I have gathered some great tips for women of all sizes.This summer let's continue debunking myths about full-figured, Size Sexy women, and all head out to the pool with our girlfriends, to the beach with a cute date and to work despite the scorching heat. Read on for my tips for a fabulous you and a spectacular summer.
Read One-Piece Swimsuits for Every Body Type
All Summer Long
Here are some easy items to look your best and feel even more glamorous every day.
Sunglasses - The most fabulous accessory is a gorgeous pair of sunglasses that will glamorize your most casual look. I'll definitely be wearing an overstated designer pair by Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, or Dolce & Gabbana. Make sure you get a pair that matches the shape of your face.
Dior My Lady oversized sunglasses with crystal details ($345, Bloomingdales.com)
Lipstick - For me, it's always red. But whatever your color is, my rule is always wear lipstick -no matter what, when or where. It brings color to your face and makes you look finished but not overdone. This summer try a lip gloss in coral pink, rose or true beige.
Clinique high impact lip color in Red-Y To Wear, SPF 15 ($14, nordstrom.com)
Read Michelle Obama Wore The Same Dress Twice
Play with your hair - When it's humid outside and the last thing you want to do is blow dry your hair, pull it up in a sexy ponytail or bun. No baseball caps allowed! If your hair is short, wear a saucy beret or a glamorous hat.
Juicy Couture thin elastic ties with charms ($25, nordstrom.com)
At Your Best Friend's Wedding
For that summer wedding, stay cool and sexy in these suggestion to suit your Size Sexy body.
Find your shape - To dress well, you first have to understand your body's curves and shape-and then learn what looks most flattering on you. Most size sexy women are shaped like Apples, Pears, or Hourglasses. Assess your body in a full length mirror and then select a wardrobe that flatters your assets and minimizes the areas that are less trim. Yes, skinny girls have the same problems with accentuating the best and camouflaging the rest.
Over-The Door - Mirror ($14.99, target.com)
Read Win It: Celebrity Goody Bag
For all size sexy gals - Wear an empire dress that flares out slightly just below your bust line and skims over your midsection. Accentuate a sexy décolletage with a good pushup bra.
Panache Atlantis gel push-up bra ($21.99, bareneccessities.com)
Pear shaped figures - Draw attention to your lovely neck and shoulders by wearing an off the shoulders dress or blouse with accessories like a beautiful pashmina for a cool night. A big great statement necklace will create a well of balance from the small upper body to the larger bottom. Avoid shapeless dresses and bubble skirts that hide your slender waist and make you look bigger then what you are.
Tadashi Shoji plus size off shoulder jeweled jersey dress ($328, bloomingdales.com)
Hourglass figures - With company like Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, and yours truly-Well in my case it's hourglass-and-a-half, yes, I am a lucky woman - flaunt your fabulous body with a tailored dress in a sophisticated cut and avoid overly flowy skirts or wrap dresses in soft and flowy fabrics. Instead wear any fabulous clothing that accentuates that sensual sexy curvaceous body - it's a must.
Rachel Pally White Label plus size Calista dress ($178.50, bloomingdales.com)
At the Beach or the Pool
At the seaside or beachside - glam it up! An ultra flattering swimsuit with a nice décolletage for a good tan when we wear that sexy dress.
Beach Blanket Bingo one piece in red ($89.99, modcloth.com)
A nice swim dress or a glamorous caftan.
Terry halter dress ($15, oldnavy.com)
A cover up to complement them both.
Athleta printed beach club caftan ($49.99, athleta.com)
At the Office
As you build your wardrobe, there are a few pieces that are musts - which are also great in the summer!
A lightweight cardigan - Buy one that flatters your shape. This will be perfect for an air-conditioned office or an after work drink that takes you into the cooler evening.
ECI woman drawstring cardigan ($59, dillards.com)
An elegant blouse - You'll need at least two in your wardrobe that can be worn both in the office and with a shawl for a nice dinner. Silk would be a fabulous choice for an elegant blouse and this summer pick a bright color - Size Sexy women must choose the right color that is suitable to your hair color and skin color.
Anne Klein animal print pleated blouse ($43.99, anneklein.com)
The LBD - The right accessories can turn a day dress in to the perfect night dress!
London Times by Maggy London rosette trim sleeveless dress ($98, nordstrom.com)
All Day, Everyday
Be feminine, confident, sexy, and glamorous! To own your style you must remember self-acceptance and a positive attitude makes you unique, confident, and happy. We are not all born to be or look like super models, but we are all just as sexy beautiful and fabulous.
It is time that full-figured women rule!
Stella Ellis is the author of SIZE SEXY, How to Look Good, Feel Good, and Be Happy - at Any Size. Stella Ellis was born in Israel, speaks eight languages, has lived, studied and worked abroad and in the United States - and has resided there for over 20 years. She has worked in the fashion industry, TV and modeling. Stella appeared in Madonna's book Sex and was also Thierry Mugler's model and Jean-Paul Gaultier full-figured muse. Visit her at StellaEllis.net.
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