Debunking the rules of plus-size dressing
Saying you have to be the size of a runway model to have fun with fashion is just like saying you have to have a huge bank account to look stylish. Obviously, we do not believe either is the case. In this episode, we invited Ashley Falcon, author of Marie Claire's "Big Girl in a Skinny World" column, to our studio to debunk the rules of plus-size dressing. See the outfits she put together for Thread viewer LaTia to show how curvy girls can indeed work the hottest looks of the season.
Ashley's monthly mission is to empower women by showing them how to embrace their curves and participate in trends they thought they were excluded from. Plus-sized girls do not have to shop at maternity stores— many do believe that, according to Ashley — and wear head-to-toe black at all times. We should note that our gorgeous model for this episode was LaTia, a loyal Thread viewer who did a fantastic job working each look.
Myth #1: Skinny jeans are for skinny girls
Reality: It's all about proportion, fit and styling. Try this combo: Pair skinny jeans with a black t-shirt, layer on a drapey vest, and add a long statement necklace that draws the eye to down towards your waist. Add some high heels that elongate your legs and the result is a sexy, on-trend look.
Myth #2: Avoid form-fitting clothes
Reality: If you cover yourself up, you can actually look much larger than you are. Do not hide your body. Instead embrace your shape by emphasizing the most flattering
aspects. A form-fitting ruched dress in a bright color with a deep v-neck accents LaTia's slim waist. Accessories like a great pair of earrings and heels add polish.
Myth #3: Avoid prints and patterns
Reality: Mixing prints in inventive ways is one of the season's biggest trends. Plus-sized ladies can absolutely look great by keeping their prints in the same color range. If your floral skirt is navy and green, try a navy and white striped top. Yes, striped! There's no reason to stay away from them. Just keep the color range in mind.
Myth #4: Only wear monochromatic looks
Reality: We all know black is slimming but so are bright colors if they're worn correctly. Colorblocking— i.e. mixing bright solid colors— is another huge spring trend. Curvy girls should absolutely indulge by picking two colors that work for you. LaTia rocked an electric-pink dress with an army-green cardigan.
Myth #5: Stay clear of pencil skirts
Reality: Pencil skirts can be sophisticated and slimming if you pair them with a great belt (try a bright color for a little flair), a tucked-in blouse and a killer pair of heels.
Do you have any other myths we should know about? Let us know by posting on our Facebook wall.
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