Closet Essentials: Show Some Leg... Thigh high style!

Good Morning!

With Valentine's Day coming up, I'm literally seeing all shades of red, lots of hearts and plenty of lingerie in anticipation of the holiday. You can't go wrong with lingerie, but what if you're not "there" yet- what's another piece that's alluring , loaded with sex appeal , all without showing it all?

Solid Band Stockings $13.95, Hips & Curves

That's right, the Thigh High.

Charlena asks "I know nothing about thigh highs, aren't they only for costumes? My BF has said he likes them but I have no idea why, I can' t imagine wearing them to work and personally think I'm too big to wear them. What do you think?"

In my search for the perfect pair, I've found that it's all about finding the pair that's right for you- which in my case means the pair that looks good and stays up.

Lace Thigh Highs $10.99, Jessica London

Black Rhinestone Fishnet Thigh High Stocking $15.00, Torrid

Thigh Highs are not just for costumes, if you like they can be a part of your hosiery arsenal. Lace Top, Studded Back Seam, Glitter Finish, Fishnet or Silk - you can't go wrong with buying different pairs to suit your different moods. Thigh highs come in a huge variety of materials; nylon, wool, cashmere, even silk! Granted the material choice will determine how much stretch you get, and might not stay up on your leg alone. This leads me to the Garter Belt, depending on how you see things the garter can be used to hold up your thigh highs or just to add extra umpph to your outfit.

You're not the only one that's expressed that thigh highs are not in your closet because you're afraid that they will slip. To prevent thigh high "slippage" I would suggest getting a pair with an inner silicone or plastic seam that runs along the top. If it's too loose it will fall, but on the other hand if it's too it tight might cause it to squeeze your leg and run, it's all about the right size.

Lace Trim Thigh High Stockings $12.50, Avenue

There's lot to do with thigh highs - many folks think that they are only worn with short skirts or lingerie, but that's where the allure factor comes in, thigh highs are unexpected. (Your BF knows what's up!) Sometimes the most fun you have with your undergarments is the fact that no one else has to know what you have on underneath. So.. feel free to be an undercover office vixen and wear them under your corporate attire.

Don't let your size keep you from trying on a pair- I really believe that thigh highs were made with curves in mind. Imagine lacy thigh highs on a skinny leg with no shape? Not as appealing in my book ;)

Other good places to look:
Just My Size
One Hanes Place
Torrid
Hips & Curves

How do you feel about thighs highs? Sexy, too much or just what your wardrobe needs?

~Luvin' My Curves...the mystery is what lies underneath ;)

Every Girl needs some Pearls....

Good Morning!!!

Double Strand Pearl Necklace, $85 Toccata, Etsy (this designer also has single & triple strand necklaces)

So... pearls...every girls needs some!! They are one of the ULTIMATE accessories; can you imagine the one piece of jewelry that can instantly glam up anything- think of pearls are the LBD of the accessory world.

Single or double stand, choker or loose - pearls through uniform in appearance allow for you to tap into your own creativity in how to wear them. Mix lengths (a la Rihanna, below) , go "dramatic" with an all black suit, or go "demure" with a single strand, a-line skirt, simple cardigan and flats or funk them up like I do - mixing them with chunky multicolor chains, scoop neck t's jeans and platforms. The choice is yours...

Glory Pearl Necklace, $6.80, Forever 21 ; Rihanna mixes lengths- taking the classic to a new level

Don't worry about the cost- pearls are a piece of jewelry that you should feel comfortable with buying a good imitation... (Jackie O' wore a fake strand that years after her death were sold for thousands!)

Keyrose's Faux Pearl Layered Necklace & Earrings Set $34.95 ; Reign's Graduated Faux Black Pearl Jewelry Set $34.99 ;
Judy's 24 Inch Imitation Pearl/Necklace Earring Set $24.99, all from Emitations

If you're not sold on the necklace, start slow... pearl studs add instant class to any outfit.

Set of 24 Pearl Studs, assorted colors $1.99 Fabuless.com

I know many of you think that pearls are snobby or only for older women, but I'm telling you pearls are timeless and work for any woman rich or broke, young and old. What was once seen as a sign of privilege and elitism is now for everyone!

Want some more? Check out :

All Girls Love Pearls

Emitations

Girl Props

What do you think of pearls? How do you wear them?

~Luvin' My Curves

Why I Love: The Wrap Dress

Good Morning!

Us full-figure ladies have curves, we have hips, breasts and backsides that some of us tend to cover up instead of appreciate. Our figure screams "FAB" but sometimes what we wear doesn't tell the same story.

In comes the wrap dress.....

Necessary Objects Ruffled Wrap Dress, Macy's$59

A vital CLOSET ESSENTIAL, The Wrap Dress is the perfect dress for a woman with curves! What began as a sportswear trend- Diane Von Furstenberg made famous in the 1970's, it's so iconic that it even has a place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MOMA).

Body Issues & The Wrap Dress

Fuller on top?
The wrap dress creates a silhouette that lifts & separates your breasts all while giving the illusion of a smaller waist because of the tie.

Miami Wrap Dress, Kiyonna, $126 ; Short Sleeve Wrap Dress, Ashley Stewart, $24.99

Bottom Heavy?
Look for a wrap dress that ends in an A-line; the A -line flatters every body and if you're bottom heavy it won't emphasize your hips. As for length, I would suggest a dress that stops at the knee or right below the knee. If it's longer, either balance it with high heels or get it tailored. A wrap dress that's too long for your height might make you look wider.

Crepe split sleeve wrap dress, Anna Scholz 195GB ($335.40); Bubble Sleeve Wrap Dress, Alight $195

...odds & ends
You can find a wrap dress in a variety of fabrics; polyester, silk, jersey, cotton, linen, etc. Stick to material that flows and doesn't cling to you (unless of course, that's the desired effect). Even a faux wrap dress works because of the line it creates across the body, still giving the same curvy silhouette. I know plenty of you don't favor the wrap dress because of the way it wraps across the front or drapes around the stomach area- play with different fits and I'm sure you'll fine one that suits you perfectly. This style is universally flattering and if worked the right way it's downright sexy, you can't go wrong!

Ruffled Print Faux Wrap Dress, Avenue, $54.90 ; Angie Faux Wrap Dress,Igigi $86

Why I love the wrap dress!

It's adjustable- one of the only style of dress where I can look amazing and not worry about how much I ate at dinner or a BBQ, and if I want to have ice cream later this dress will not throw me under the bus. The wrap dress is my very own "ride or die" dress. Plus, waist definition and v-necklines are definitely my friends- so when I can get both effects in one take, I'm golden.

me in one my favorite wrap dresses...

I swear this style was made with the fuller figure in mind- Is the wrapdress an essential or a "wrap" for you?

~Luvin' My Curves

Fan Fancy!!

Good Morning!!

It's hot here in NYC (finally, ok well maybe not totally) so I can now finally talk about one of my favorite accessories... the Hand Fan.

Yes, a fan! And not the church fan , those elegant fans that you often see "ladies" whip out to cool themselves on hot and hazy days. Me, I usually just take a flyer and try to decrease the heat by a temp or two but lately I've been drawn to elegantly made fans... I found a really beautiful leather and pearl handle fan at a thrift shop for $15!!!

I've seen a beautiful assorment over on Etsy...

Handpainted Silk Fan, Gilbea $45, Tulips Fuchias, PalomaSiaDesigns $23, WigglesFans4Fun,$30

Or look to wedding sites for an assortment of simple & affordable fans....

Asian Sandalwood Fan, Cherry Blossom Silk Fan both from Beau Corp

Also check out The Knot!!

The more unique, the more of a statement.... from bright colors, to interesting cuts to unique handles. It's an accessory that's often overlooked but if you add just one to your style arsenal, I'm sure it'll make you stand out. ;)

Think you might get one?

~Luvin' My Curves

High Heel Confidential

Good Morning!!

Today I want to talk about something that we all either love or hate.... walking in high heels!

I don't know what it is; the sex appeal factor, vanity, or our closets -but we often find ourselves putting on heels even when we know it will mean pain later. For me it's equal parts fashion as sometimes I think my outfit will be carried out better by a heel and another part sex appeal because I know heels give me that extra oomph!!

There's a part of me that thinks I can be like Carrie Bradshaw and walk (sometimes run) in high heels so easily but it just doesn't happen and I break out the ballet flat that I made sure to stash in my bag.

When I say I've tried everything to alleviate the pain/anxiety of walking in high heels, I mean it. I've tried everything.Awhile ago, an article in Vibe Vixen suggested trying trying the Yamuna Hand & Foot Wakers which "reeducate" feet by improving muscle tone & strengthening arches. Me being the product junkie I am bought them immediately! I followed the booklet while I watched TV and in a couple of weeks, I wasn't cured but I also wasn't throwing my shoes to the side when a soca tune came on, definite improvement.

However, I still dreaded the thought of walking in heels all day- somehow the thought of me walking into court in flats didn't have the same intimidation factor as the loud *smack* of a high heel. Determined to at least be able to go for a couple of hours in heels I searched and found a LegWork class in NYC. (This class is definitely the truth!)

Why do I torture myself so? You want to talk about a workout?? And I didn't even take one step in my heels yet! Our instructor had us do a grueling leg/thigh workout followed by a continual catwalking so that she could individually assess what we needed to work on. My issue was that I wasn't moving my hips enough as I walked, I chalk it up to being to concerned with falling but she worked with me until I could strut down the length of the classroom with my head high, hips rolling and silently hoping that I wouldn't at least break a tooth when I fell.

The one thing I realized, is that walking in high heels without wanting throw your shoe at someone is more about developing strength. If my legs are conditioned to walk as opposed to putting all the weight on the balls of my feet then I'm good to go! So I'll keep practicing

Here are some tips if you're still struggling:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice!! Walk around your house in your heels- look at yourself in the mirror just to check out how you look in heels, do your normal routine in heels just to get used to walking around in them. Then, when walking in the house starts to feel better try to wear them while doing something like going out to dinner with the girls.

2. Smart small, don't start in 3-4 inch heels and expect to be able to glide easily. Smart with a 2 inch heel or a platform and work your way up.

3. Heel, Toe. Always make sure that your heel strikes the ground before your toe does.

4. Chunky heels are a beginner's best friend- stiletto's can be intimidating when 1st starting to walk so start chunky and then trim your way down if you like.

5. Platforms are great too- they give you the added height but a flat base which makes it easier to walk in.

6. Posture!! Try this trick that I got from stylist B.Coates : stand in your heels then drop your head & arms down to your toes , slowly roll back up vertebrae by vertebrae until you are standing up straight. Your head is high, your shoulders are back- this is how your posture should be when walking.


Need a visual? This video is nice and basic.

and if you want to really work it out, here's a Stiletto Workout with June Ambrose!!




So let's talk, do you love or hate high heels? If you hate them, tell me why and if you love them share the love and any tips!

**GIVEAWAY:** If you're struggling in your heels, and need help email me for your chance to win a free LegWork DVD! Email me at luvinmycurves@gmail.com and tell me why you and high heels don't get along!

~Luvin' My Curves.... struttin' in my heels!

Forever in love with Flats

Good Morning!

Alia from Miami, FL writes in:

"I'm so used to wearing high heels all the time, but I recently had foot surgery that prevents me from wearing heels for 3 months! This is my worst nightmare because I have no flats in my closet and only wear sneakers for the gym. I don't want to be dramatic but I'm not used to being so close to the ground, how do you feel about flats?"

Hey Alia,

I have a love/hate relationship with high heels; I love looking at them but hate walking in them for long periods of time.

Don't get me wrong I appreciate what a pump or stiletto does for the "look"; and I defer to them for certain events but I can't co-sign in walking in heels ALL the time for the sake of looking good when all I really want to do is throw myself on the floor in surrender.

9 times of out 10 give me a flat shoe!

Flats not only save your feet from brutal agony but can comfortably dress up a plain t-shirt and jean outfit, or most outfits for that matter. Spring is the perfect time to break out the flats; and with so many choices you really can't go wrong. From the classic ballet flat to the flats adorned with sequins and jewels you're bound to find something to complement your style.

I've picked out some that caught my eye; take a look:


The "classic flat"

Ciao Bella "Fantasia" Flat $85, Macy's; Logan $49.99, Nine West; Rocket Dog Thai Silk Knotted Flat $34.95, DSW; Mossimo Odell Ballet Flats $12.99, Target; Steven by Steve Madden Stardom $128.95, Nordstrom; Sam Edelman 'Ianna' $99.95

I've always liked ankle strap flats because the strap gives the feel like I'm dressed up as if I had heels on, but can still talk a long walk without having to break out the flip flops from my purse. These are best worn when wearing anything short; skirts, shorts or dresses.

ALL BLACK Lacy Lady $34.48, Amazon ; Carlos by Carlos Santana Flirt Peep ToePour La Victoire Cezanne $98, Endless; Volatile Harp Purple $28.99, Shoemall; Zigi NY BelleBronze $21.91, Overstock $88.95,Endless;

Since it's warm in your neck of the woods; paint the tootsies and show them off in a peep-toe flat;

Metallic Peep-toe Flats $24.00,Newport News; Dolce Vita Moritz 37 $45.95, Endless; Twister Peep Toe Flat $19.95, Endless; French Sole 'Vineyard' Flat $239, Barefoot Tess; Blowfish Sherbert Peep Toe Patent Skimmer $39.95, DSW

Maybe at the end of 3 months you'll change your mind about flats- let me know :) Get well soon!

How do you feel about flats? Can't live with them or can't live without them?

~Luvin' My Curves

Tailormade: Why You NEED aTailor

Good Morning!

One essential we ALL need in our closet (or at least in our speed dial) is a good tailor/seamstress. If you want to truly WEAR your clothes, and I mean look fierce then it's not just WHAT you wear, it's how it fits you. A skirt that could stand to be taken in a inch (or let out an inch) isn't worth the $$ you paid for it if it doesn't do your body justice.

Jacob Lawrence "The Seamstress", 1946 (courtesy of negroartist.com)

Do yourself a favor get a tailor and make every piece you own fit you like it was made with your curves in mind. I have relied on tailors for a very long time- I get a kick out transforming ordinary clothes into something that's custom-made. Most of my Jackets, dresses, suits have all been prey to my seamstress hands and creativity- she has knack for adding little embellishments like new buttons or a tuck in the back that I always end up loving. A good tailor can also save you money; instead of buying new clothes, just fix what you have already.When you jeans start fraying in the thigh/crotch area, get them patched for about $7-$10 and it's just as new!

For Example: I wore this beautiful London Times Woman Gold Dress for my Holiday Party; big in the bust so my seamstress not only shortened the straps but she took in the bust and even went ahead and took up the hem, she told me I need to show some more leg. (It was kind of long for me). Amazing! (Sorry, I don't have a good shot to show, the night was crazy!)

I would suggest that you should "test your tailor", give them something easy like taking up a hem or taking in a skirt, take note to how (or if) they measure, pin and tuck on you. If the results are great, then make sure to keep their name, contact info because you'll get addicted, trust!

The next best thing to a tailor is to get your clothes custom made to your measurements! Just like getting your pieces tailored is addictive, getting a dress made specifically for you is just as euphoric. I did this for my high school prom dress and I've been a fan ever since.

There's also a site called Designer Curves that makes clothing specified to your measurements, also look on Etsy , many of the designers make clothing according to your measurements take a look Peta Pledger & JaneBonBon (post on Etsy coming soon) both who make their beautiful dresses that are perfect for the spring and summer. Yes this route may be a bit more pricey than just buying retail but you never have to worry about it not fitting quite right.

Silk Evening Dress, $150 Janebonbon

Do any of you use a seamstress? What have you gotten done? I'd love to know!

~Luvin' My Curves

Trench It!

Good Morning!(The snow is gone YAY!!)

It's functional, it's mysterious, & even sexy (your significant other often wonder's what's underneath) -it's a trench coat!

Who would have thought a coat originally made for the French and British soldiers in the 1st World War would be a fashion essential? Originally made for men in the trenches, the trenchcoat has remained fashionable through all the years - often remixed but never losing it's appeal.

As we approach spring- the trench is a definite "go-to" piece that can turn a plain outfit into something style worthy. Though khaki/tan is "classic" color for a trench, I've found some pieces that might encourage you to play this spring - bright colors, bold prints, funky materials ..... which would you pick?

Bright Colors

AK Anne Klein Iridescent Trench $145.64; , Lantern Sleeve Trench $49, Ashley Stewart;,Women's Plus Belted Trench $34.50 Old Navy; Short Trenchcoat $39.99, Chadwicks

Want to be Queen of the Jungle? take your pick..

Leopard Print Trench $49.90, Avenue, Zebra Trench $59.99, Lane Bryant, Steve Madden Giraffe Print Trench $108, Nordstroms

Fun & Funky Prints

Apple Bottoms Stand Up Collar Trench $96, Macys; Brush Stroke Print $59, Ashley Stewart; Linear Print Trench $49.99 Lane Bryant; Leaf Print Trench $156.75 , Macys

Unique Materials put a twist on an old classic

Gallery Embossed Alligator Print $98 & Hilary Radley New York Crocodile Embossed Trench; Bubble Trench $74, Missphit, Khaki Satin Twill Double Breasted Trench Coat $88, Torrid $58.90, both at Nordstroms

Eagerly awaiting springtime...
~Luvin' My Curves