We have several key items to complete your fall wardrobe.  This season it is about mixing and matching from memorable prints to patterns and texture, finding easy-to-wear jackets and pants suits, selecting classic shades in neutrals to add to your wardrobe and dresses that can go from day to dinner and beyond.

As long as the print colors are true to nature, your animal print will never go out of style.  Check out Simply Silk’s Animal Print Silk Jacket with just a hint of leopard print, this jacket is timeless.

Pair with red shoes to make a statement!

Our Caribe crushed taffeta jacket fits the bill in so many ways.  It is seasonless!  This jacket is packable, comfortable,  and has a crinkle texture. Better yet! You can mix and match with your favorite skirt or pair of pants.

Need a new pant suit? Check out Brooke Chapman’s Bolero pantsuit.  Great to pack and easy-to-wear!  We just love  both the color and the style of this  Neon Buddha shirt tail jacket in olive!

Influenced by AMC’s Mad Men perhaps, this Portrait Dress from Brooke Chapman, from Canada, provides both a flattering silhouette, wonderful texture and the season’s celebrated color combo in black and white.

Here is Shannon Cooney, Head Designer from Pure and Co., and Neon Buddha discussing this season’s trends.  No matter what your shape, make your look work for you! Happy Fall!

I was reading in Women’s Wear Daily the other day that the Misses’ Market is getting a well-deserved makeover in terms of updated silhouettes, textures and prints.  That is good to hear.

The misses market came about during the tried and true Eisenhower era when clothes were functional, predictable, matronly, a bit more on the dressier side, wearable, well-made and most important of all, safe and conservative.  (I was not even born then, how about you?) In those, days, women did not want to stand out or look too good. (I would have been miserable.) The pieces in those days,  were designed to camouflage middle aged figure flaws.

Today’s woman has a very modern mindset and busy lifestyle.  They may not be able to fit into pieces they wore in their twenties, but they still want to have an updated, modern look.  And, to reflect their beliefs and central to this change in the missy market, is comfort, fit, selection and versatility.

According to WWD, many missy retailers including Talbots, have even dropped the word “misses” from its stores, catalogs, and other corporate messaging.

Got me thinking, “Well what about the plus size market?” Where do we fit in?  If the missy market is under-going an overhaul, won’t the plus size market under-go a transformation as well?

Some may argue, but I would consider the plus size market a cousin of the missy market. Many of the styles that are done in missy are done in plus.  The misses’ market represents the largest chunk of the women’s apparel business.  It is bigger than juniors, contemporary, or designer and historically has been the least exciting and the most challenging to define according to David Moin, writer of the March 31 WWD article.  Examples of traditional missy labels include Tommy Hilfiger, Anne Klein, Ellen Tracy, Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors.

There is some disagreement in the fashion world as to what constitutes misses – is it based on size, age, or lifestyle?  However, there is agreement that this category has been the slowest to change until now.

It will be interesting to see what the misses market does in terms of a makeover? A different name? Different styles? Different fabrics?

So…what is next for plus, I wonder? Can we re-name the plus size market?  I remember when plus size were depicted in half-sizes and the children’s and pre-teen plus markets were called Chubby. Eeuuw.

So, while we are transforming the missy, why don’t we throw some more attention to plus?

We need what the missy market is emphasizing: Layering, crafted looks, different fabrics, embellishments, active wear like our Neon Buddha contrast zip jacket, that is not just for being active, and career wear.  And how about these pieces in updated silhouettes and prints that represent a more relaxed lifestyle? Check out this keyhole tunic from Silk Threads.

Essential for the plus size market–or any market–is really how a trend is depicted and then executed.  Women want to buy it now and wear it now, and to have trends interpreted to fit their lifestyle, age and silhouette and to have pieces that can go at least two, if not, three seasons. Check out our Neon Buddha Yin Yang Pullover in Coral–great “twist” to a trend!

So, we will be waiting with great anticipation as to what is next for plus! Plus Size Designers..listen to our customers and respond…quickly! Then all of us will benefit!

I love, love, love, the Oscars! How about you?! I was thinking about how plus size women can take advantage of the trends that we have been seeing for special occasions.

Two things to keep in mind: outrageous and elegant mixed together.

There is a nod to trends of the past, but this spring, fashion is taking a big step in what we are being told, is quite a new direction.  This season: smart and sexy looks rule when paired with sporty and delicate styles and how about in neutral tones all serve to create an elegant, barely there look.

Look for champagne, beige and all shades of grey are in!  Take a look at this grey beaded jacket from Simply Silk.

Part of the reason why this neutral color style has emerged is because there is so much print and energy in other trends this season, which suggests that neutral will also outlive these other trends. You will see bold geometric patterns and animal prints to complement and contrast with the neutral tones.

I am wondering with great anticipation! Will we see these neutrals with a hint of the outrageous this evening for the Oscars?  What will Mo’ Nique and Sandra and Meryl be wearing?
Cannot wait! More tomorrow! We will know soon!
Jodell

Weeeeeelllll.  What do ya’ know?  Turning out to be quite a year already for plus size.

Let me think.   Which one is it?

A. Good business?  B. Mea culpa (now THAT would be new) from Karl Lagerfeld after he mentioned that “These are fat mummies sitting with their bags of crisps in front of the television, saying that thin models are ugly, (and, Wait it gets better) …and that the “fashion industry supports dreams and illusions, and no one wants to see round women.”   C.  A good p.r. stunt?  D. He remembered that “round women” buy Chanel perfume.  Lots of it. E. He was hungry and in a bad mood and finally got something to eat.

The January issue of V Magazine (gotta love that magazine!) features the voluptuous burlesque star Miss Dirty Martini in a lingerie-themed photo shoot by Karl Lagerfeld for V Magazine’s Size Issue.  Wearing accessories by Chanel and Lagerfeld–along with pasties, cut-out bras, garter belts and stockings–Miss Dirty Martini looks like Coco Chanel at home in Coco’s Rue Cambon apartment.  When asked why she posed for V Magazine, Miss Dirty Martini said: “Posing on the Double C’s, modeling like my life depended on it, I thought, ‘Why not? Why can’t designers make fashion that mimics the architecture of hips and busts and then choose models that wear it perfectly?’”

Hmmm.  Well said!  And Well done, Miss. Martini! A beautiful fashion piece that captures the imagination and yes, captures even dreams and illusions.

Wait, not done yet.  Can’t resist!

Yoo hoo! Mr. Lagerfeld….Just a reminder…Nevah say Nevah!

More as it happens…Jodell

Interesting story on CNN by Breeanna Hare.

Could it be?

Is 2010 the year for plus size models to get more work and continue the trend of placing plus size models in editorial campaigns-or- is it the same old cycle that we have seen before with a burst of activity that slowly fades away to be resurrected at a later time for the cycle to start again?

I am encouraged that there has been a number of recent high fashion editorial campaigns from V Magazine, Glamour, and Germany’s Brigitte Magazines with plus size models featured along side high fashion, Size 0 models or with models who represent women of all shapes and sizes.

Will it be enough to keep the momentum moving forward?

We know that the plus size models like Crystal Renn can hold their own against their straight-sized counterparts? Now, will the fashion industry and the public allow it, no…demand that it happens?  Finally.

Hmmmn. Remains to be seen.

More as it happens. Jodell

I really love the drama of fashion photography and its ability to tell a story, don’t you?

Velvet d’Amour’s rendition of plus size fashion as an art form is a perfect example of fashion photography at its best.

In this dramatic, black and white photo spread for Plus Model Magazine, we are immediately drawn into another place and time.  We are intrigued as we get to know Islington Girl and Chole Marshall and Velvet d’Amour’s interpretation of a sexy vixen.

Once again, I am excited and encouraged to see a plus size model as the central figure in a fashion spread that captures the imagination and tells a story of not only fashion, but style.

Style is a trait that one can aspire to and have sooo much fun along the way.  Along with the images, I was inspired by a quote in the fashion spread from Edna Woolman Chase, the former editor of Vogue.

“Fashion can be bought.  Style one must possess.”

Psychologists tell us that style can be learned.  It is not an age or a size.  It is a combination of self-confidence and self knowledge–the essence of “who” you were, are, and intend to be.  Through style, we have the ability to create who we are and the part of ourselves that we wish to show the world.   Through style, we can sift through all of the clutter and find our inner self and take pride in showing the world our evolution of who we are—the work, the masterpiece, in progress.

Fashion is clothing, and simply a tool to exhibit one’s style.   Style is our universal, shared language that links us-regardless of age or size.

Here’s to dedicating the year to telling your story and creating your own unique style.

Great Work, everyone! More as it happens. Jodell

Oh, we love Crystal. She’s at it again!

You have to see this! Crystal Renn and 17 year old model, Jacquelyn Jablonski who has modeled for Calvin Klein jeans are pictured side-by-side in the next issue of V Magazine modeling outfits from Versace,          Ralph Lauren and Dolce and Gabanna.

Photographed by Terry Richardson for V Magazine, each model lends her own unique personality to the outfits.  We love this trend of using models of all shapes and sizes to represent all of us and not just the very thin or very young. Fashion, after all, does not stop at a size 4, it is for every woman who wants it.  Great work! More as it happens.

We’re talkin’ about jackets! Clean lines and tailored looks in year-round fabrics are popular trends for Fall ‘09 from the boyfriend jacket to more formal occasion wear as we head into holiday ‘09. Look for big collars, soft pleats, fold over and big bow accents on jackets. This cute side tie jacket from Fenini in charcoal is a perfect example of a a big-collared, bow accented jacket in a neutral color.

On the catwalk you’ll see much less traditional autumnal hues.  Colors range from richly hued, jewel tones to wearable colors that bridge the gap between beige and light grey These subtle tones set the stage for accentuating your best features in eyes, cheeks or lips.  Check out NARS lipstick in Fast Ride–A Sheer Mulberry or Mekong Eye Shadow, espresso infused color shadow with gold. Both make up items display Francois Nars’s intention for this season’s collection:  A contrast in bold and feminine and a study in strength and refinement!

Subtle neturals can be mixed and matched from season to season and can be seen in muted grey, charcoal, or muted mauve. This Jacket from Simply Silk is a perfect example of the FAll ’09 Realism Look which pairs a graphic pattern on silk to provide a feminine, urban chic look.

Subtle neutrals also set the stage for statement necklaces in shiny metallics and/or varnished ornaments providing an art deco Realism. Check out this black and white artisian glass necklace from Andrea’s Jewelry or this statement piece in copper and gold with accents of magenta, blue, and green. This plus size contour jacket in smoke from A People United is a perfect example of a jacket that can transcend seasons.

Jackets and coats in cozy fabrics and versatile tones such as this Fleece Swing Jacket from Fenini can easily go from season to season worn as an outercoat or a jacket in colder weather.

With less emphasis on one-season wearables, you will find the colors for Fall ‘09 able to transcend seasons.

Contrasting with the neutral tones, you will see popular richly hued tones come in shades of purple, orange, green, red, and blue. Sparkling jewel tone colors make a bold statement in solid and printed tops and dresses. Animal print is still going strong! Accent with colorful longline gloves or animal print ankle boots such as Yves Saint Laurent’s Leopard Print Ankle boots, purses and clutches and the sky is the limit.

Full figure shapewear can complete your look from that special party dress to your favorite pencil skirt to your jeans. Today’s technological advances make for a perfect compliment for plus size women when it comes to choosing and wearing their shapewear. Gone are those bulging seams and heavy boning with yesterday’s shapewear garments that can produce unnatural contours as well as thick nylon and power mesh layers that move unflattering inches to other parts of the body. Seamless, heat sealed technologies along with fabrics that feature feather light, breathable control panels that move with your body and feels like a second skin, is a welcome addition to any outfit.

It is possible to find full figure shapewear garments to flatter and show off your curves. After all, it is no one’s business but your own what parts of your body you don’t want to advertise! There are a variety of plus size shapewear garments that look and feel wonderful and go with your curves providing a flattering silhouette underneath dresses, skirts and jeans!

Some tips to keep in mind when selecting the shapewear garment of your choice:

• Measure: Make sure you know which areas you want to target and get accurate measurements of those areas so you can find the right size based on manufacturer specs. As with apparel, each shapewear manufacturer’s sizing is different, so do pay close attention to their size charts.

• Fit: Getting shapewear that is too big or too tight will negate the affect you are trying to create. Ever have your shapewear twisted? To ensure that your shapewear will stay in place and that the seams and panels will be straight. Step into the legs of the garment, pull up until you reach the point where you would like your shaper to begin. As you pull the garment up and over your torso, simply un-gather the shapewear. Once you have your shapewear on, sit down, bend and stretch. If you feel a binding area, readjust. Your shapewear must be comfortable while sitting as standing. And whatever you do, do not buy your shapewear one size too small. A smaller garment will not hold you in MORE or give you more control it will just make you unnecessarily uncomfortable. Instead, go up to the next level of control. (If you have moderate control go to a firm control garment). Shapewear make you hot? Look for pieces that have a cotton blend so that the garment can breathe and you can feel more comfortable. Make sure that your waist stays in place and does not move or roll over, as it may be an indication that you will need another size or that your shapewear has been broken down and needs to be replaced. Your shapewear should not have any wrinkles or bulges and make sure that you have a proper fit in the crotch as well.

• Control Level: Shapewear comes in a variety of control levels: from light to very firm. These control levels allow you to choose the amount of support that’s right for you. In some instances, control top pantyhose or a full or just a half slip can provide about the same support as light control shapewear garments. Moderate control provides extra smoothness with light control panels. You should be able to move around comfortably for the day or evening activities when wearing moderate control shapewear garments. Using current technological advances, firm and extra firm shapewear garments are comfortable and provide the most support and control. However, in some instances you may not be able to wear them all day long.

• Desired Target Area: Not all shapewear is created equal. Each shapewear piece is designed to target a specific area or areas: tummy, thigh, waist, buttocks, or all over coverage. Choosing the right garment depends upon how much control you desire and which area you want to focus on.

• Below is a synopsis of each target body area along with the corresponding shapewear pieces you can choose from. Note: Each shapewear piece depends upon what you are wearing over it and what area (s) you want support and control.
  1. Tummy- If you want to focus on your tummy and midriff area and give the illusion of flat stomach and rock hard abs, choose from a cami shaper,  panty shaper or tummy shaper.  

1. Thighs, Waist and Buttocks-If you wish to shape the thigh area, lift the buttock area, narrow your hips and minimize your waist, choose froma boxer shaper, high waist boxer shaper or legging shaper. If you are a pear shape, make sure your shapewear piece has extra support in outer thighs and buttocks.

   

1. All Over Coverage When you need all over trimming and toning consider a boxer body shaper or high waist boxer shaper if you want to or need to wear your own bra.

Finding the right full figure shapewear garment will provide the “foundation” for every item in your wardrobe and give you the opportunity to improve the way your clothes fit and feel! Shapewear gives you the option to wear your garments in the most flattering way possible! Shapewear gives you the option to wear your garments in the most flattering way possible! After all, it’s not about what size you wear it’s how you wear your size!

We have had a few inquiries about the trend of printed leggings and how they translate to plus size.  With help from our friends at WeLoveColors.com we have a few great suggestions on how to wear plus size printed leggings.

Actually, graphic eye-catching printed tights can hide problem areas.  Think of the concept of to “distract” rather than to “attract” which is what printed leggings can do when paired with the right ensemble.  Make sure you wear your printed leggings with oversized t-shirts, long belted shirts, or plain-colored simple tunic-style tops such as our Comfy USA Black Tunic.  Choose high heeled shoes to make your legs look  slender or wear leggings with simple flats and take note: this is not the time to wear your statement shoes, let your tights do the talkin’.

Leggings will be everywhere this Fall and why not take a chance with this exciting fashion statement?  You can order your tights online at www.welovecolors.com or by phone at 1-800-770-3177 and soon from Black Cat Plus! We love their tights! And oooohhh U.S. shipping is only $5 and they ship internationally too! And Follow WeLoveColors on Twitter OR on their Facebook Fan Page, mention to We Love Colors that you saw this blog post or heard the promotion on bcpradio and you will receive one pair of tights for FREE when you purchase two pairs of tights at regular price.  And that’s not it! Also receive Free Shipping! Just Mention blackcatplusradio in your tweet or on their wall!  This offer is good until September 1, 2009 at 12:00 midnight EST.