Dress Me: The "not so serious" White

Morning!

  
Today's "Dress Me" email comes from T. out of Boston, Mass. She writes:

"I've seen your previous white party posts and I love them. But I'd really like if you could suggest how to wear white to an event that's not as serious as a party. I don't know the 1st thing about wearing white, so I'm afraid, but I also want to do something different - I want to stand out in a simple way and I feel like all white would be a good way to do it."

First, off I'm glad you enjoyed my previous posts on what to wear to a white party (click here and here to check it out). I really do enjoy white party season and if my suggestions can help then I'm all for it. As the end of the summer nears, the quintessential white party mode is fully on. Alot of white parties occur around July 4th, but it also seems that many happen in August right before Labor Day season. The great thing is that you don't have to wait for a party to wear all-white, it's a classic must-do for the summer.

You can choose to go the simple white route which is perfectly fine - and easier to do. There are many options popping up that would make this option a "go-to" but beware that some other curvy girl may have it on too! Or  you can get crazy with the accessories and in that case you'll stand out because if someone else is rocking your white outfit the same exact way, there is some serious ESP going on. I bring on the bright colors  but look to metallics and prints to offset the whit as well. As you can tell, options are limitless and I'm excited that you want to try something different from your everyday. 

Since you stated that you'd like to wear white to an event other than a party, here are two suggestions that I hope you can start to run wild with. Both are pieces that you could wear to a white party or something as simple as brunch with friends.

White Affair by LuvinMyCurves featuring Nine West shoes

ASOS CURVE Exclusive Indigo Knitted Jeggings, $15
Nine West Escher peep toe platform pump (BLACK), $35
Straw Womens Fedora, $13
Women's Plus-Size Merona® White V-Neck Short-Sleeve Basic Tee - 1 :..., $9.99
Beirn cobalt snakeskin 'Ruthie' shoulder bag at Bluefly, $285
Krishna's Vermeil & Faux Turquoise Necklace

With this outfit, you could substitute the tee for a batwing top, and really cute shorts instead of the jeggings.

Simple White pt.2 by LuvinMyCurves featuring Bottega Veneta bags

JACKIE - Flat Sandals - Bakers Footwear, $60
Braided Leather Hobo, $1,400
Baby Phat is a premiere lifestyle brand celebrating women who dare to..., $69

I think you could definitely "stand out in a simple way" like this!

I get the apprehension  you have with white, some folks may say  "it's white, it's easy". But I totally understand that it also proves to be harder than it looks. I used to feel the same way because I MUST make sure NO ONE is wearing what I'm wearing or at least in the same way;  I don't want to just put a white frock on I want to OWN it; and I'm always thinking "what if I spill something?"

I hope these suggestions are helpful for your "not so serious" white event. Please let me know how it goes!!!

 

What do you think of my suggestions? Do you only take on the all-white for parties or do you make it part of your casual rotation?

~Luvin' My Curves

What J is Jonesin' For: Nothing like a NY Summer

Morning!

What happens when you're back in your element, and your calendar starts to pack up with places to go and people to see? You shop! The summer has always been a tough time for me jonesin' wise - I want everything I see and don't calm down until my wardrobe receives a decent size upheaval. The more I think about it, maybe I should I have done my 90 days no-shop during the summer - on second thought maybe not.

This month, I'm inspired by my social calendar. I've made a list of all the concerts,classes and places that I would like to go to this summer - a NY summer is something that everyone needs to experience, there's nothing like it. I want to make sure that I stay cool, but that I'm also expressing the style I've had to repress a bit for my job. Because I have no dress code to follow or students to worry about I can wear whatever I please; so I'm gravitating towards plunging necklines, higher heels and pieces that are perfect for late summer nights.


For the party lover in me:

I was jonesin' so bad for this dress that I ordered it; I refuse to agree with the "rule" that curvy girls should not do stripes.

Black and Grey-Striped Belted Dress $38, Torrid

Could I "sweep" all night in these 5" heels? I think not. However, I know I'd look damned good walking into the party with these shoes.

Rock and Republic Chelsey $344, Zappos

For an outdoor festival or concert: 

A simple summer dress and cute flat sandals will never betray you as you walk the entire length of the African Arts Festival or surrender to the rhythms at Central Park Summerstage.

Knit Dress $23.12, Avenue

A day walking across the Brooklyn Bridge with Chinatown Ice Cream Factory as a finish line treat:
I want to be comfortable yet cute; it's a long walk but the ice cream is worth it!

Cream Striped Hanky-Hem Tank $28, Torrid

There are so many other events going on this summer, and true to my jonesin' nature I'll be making sure to style for every one of them. What are you jonesin' for this month?


~Luvin' My Curves

P.S: Enjoy your holiday weekend!!

P.P.S: In my almost daily viewing of clothing websites I saw that Newport News has a Women's Plus Boutique- however the collection looks the same as it did before, just with a different name. Take a look at the site and tell me your thoughts.

-L.M.C-

Ask LMC: Take the Chill off ... plus a Holiday Giveaway

Good Afternoon!!

"Whether it's wearing my purple leather cashmere lined gloves or my sunshine yellow scarf the bad weather wont' get the best of my style, how are YOU staying stylish this winter?"

I got an email in response to my Facebook QOTD... "What if you can't afford to buy a new coat, what else can I do to not look so drab?" Well, the quick answer is to focus on what you need; a scarf to protect your neck, gloves to maintain the warmth and a hat to top it all off. Of course, my answers are never that short and I'd be wrong to not give you some fun visuals- take a look at my picks to keep the chill off this winter.

The Scarf:

My scarves not only adorn my neck in the winter, but I make it worth the $$ by making them into a headband or belt in the "off-season. I look for scarves that not only serve the purpose of keeping me warm but also stand-out from the regular. To complement my darker coats I look for prints while to go with my colored coats I look for simple prints and softer colors. My scarf collection has only grown in the past year ( I wont' tell you how much, but will say that they fill up a moving box). Of course, because scarves are in season the price may go slightly up- but you can find a scarf anywhere- whether it be plain or complicated.

Some interesting picks:

Khaki chunky snood, (15gb), Evans - excellent two-fer, wear as a scarf or a hood.; Watch Pocket Scarf $128, Anthropologie ( love this one, perfect place to hide an extra $20 or mints)

The Gloves:

The idea of my entire body being warm except for my stubby fingers bothers me. So gloves are definitely a winter essential along with a scarf. Most people are used to single color gloves, but I've seen then in an array of prints and textures. Leather, Cashmere, Fingerless, Long, Convertible, detailed or simple- for some reason these two especially the Elsa Gloves are catching my attention.

Elsa Gloves, $78, Anthropologie; Tarnish Chunky Cable Knit Fingerless Gloves $78, Nordstrom

The Hat:

I was never of hats until last spring- when it was warmer it was purely for fashion sake. But they really do help contain the warmth...that is, until they mess your hair up. Funny, how I'm more concerned about my hair than about staying warm (I know I'm not the only one). (Tip: If you hat is wool or cotton, make sure you line the hat with silk or satin to protect your hair.)

Mustard Chunky Cable Knit Beret $16, Torrid; Alfani Beret Solid Fisherman $23.99, Macy's; Applique Cloche $38, Urban Outfitters

The Shawl/Wrap:

So while it's not a winter essential, it's a piece that's most overlooked to take the chill. If your office is freezing, instead of keeping your coat on all day- try a wrap that can fashionably keep the cold away. Of course, the $10 pashmina on the street corner works just as well too.

Tis' the season - and to celebrate we have some giveaways this week!

Giveaway #1: One free item from Jen's Fashion Plus!Click here for more info!

Time to shine for the Glitterati!!!

Good Morning!

It's something about the impending holidays that brings out the glitz in folks. Join the Glitterati this holiday season in some of the hottest clothes. Like most trends, it's best to wear it in doses - otherwise you run the risk of being a walking disco ball. Perfect for the holiday party or New Year's bash - it's your time to shine!

Glitterati

clockwise (l to r): Sequins Racer, $39, Missphit, Vero Moda multi sequin dress $130, Dorothy Perkins, Teal Sequin Belt $13, Dorothy Perkins, Silver Sequin Flower Metal Headband $10, Torrid, All Over Big Sequin Dress $139, Asos, Sequin Holiday Pump $22.80, Forever21, Santi Clutch $173, Endless, Tina Sequins Party Dress $208, MonifC, Audrey Tunic $46, B&Lu, Sequin Flower Ring $3.99, Sassique Jewelry, Black Sequin Skirt $57, Evans, Adrianna's Magnetic Bracelet $19.95, Emitations, Dip-dye Dress $57, Missphit,Ladybug Sequin Pump $78.99, Heels.com


I think it's fun to play with glitter and sequins with other materials & prints- maybe a sequin tunic with dark rinse jeans and metallic chunky heels. Or try a sparkling dress with bold, bright solid color tights. For the faint of heart, go slow with an accessory or two -then build your way up if you dare. I'm gunning for the sequin miniskirt- I'm dreaming of pairing it with a ruffle sleeveless tank and my stilettos, FIERCE! Let's hope the mini doesn't sell out by payday.

FYI-Hint, Hint: If you haven't already you should join the Luvin' My Curves Facebook Fan Page, the holidays are coming. (wink, wink)


~Luvin' My Curves....are you ready to shine?

Am I the only one who's ready to retire the dark coat?

Good Morning!

I'm just straight distrustful of the weather nowadays- one minute it's cold and the next you're sweating in your coat- this is the kind of weather that can make you sick. I know that I look nuts walking around in my wool trench coat but I REFUSE to get sick because of the fickle weather.


While I'm obsessed with the weather's effect on my health today's question is more concerned with dealing with the weather in style. Sade writes in that she's "Am I the only one who's ready to retire the dark coat, I'm tired of the grey, black and brown" boring winter coats. I'm ready to make a standout jacket part of my everyday routine."Bright Colors" make me smile and when it starts to get dark before I even clock out I need something bright. What do you suggest?"


Well, you know I'm all about color.... but with coats you have to be keenly aware of cut, fit, material, and quality- another factor that I always think about is price, is a $300 unlined coat really worth it? I think dark coats still have a place in a winter closet, but a color coat is definitely welcome. You want a coat that's stylish but that can also take you past just this one season- I think living in New England I'll assume that you'll want something that's extremely warm as well (no point in being a cute colorful popsicle, right?).

I picked a group of coats; some are thin and just for style and some are functional but they're all full of color....

Aqua Fold Over Collar Coat, (49.50 GB), Yellow Contrast Button Coat, (65 GB), Cobalt Blue Military Coat, all from Evans

La'Dan's Closet is all about flair,color and would definitely brighten up your mood.

Cape $239.99,, Wrap Coat $359.99, La'Dan's closet

These coats are all pretty warm (tested by yours truly)...

Calvin Klein All Satin Weather Coat, $98;Steve Madden Toggle Coat, $109.90; Ellen Tracy Kimono Topper,$218all at Nordstroms

Other places to check out for colorful coats:
Old Navy (this season's selections are quite stylish, but should be warmer considering the price tag)
Avenue
Dorothy Perkins


Has anyone found a warm, colorful coat? Do share :)

~Luvin' My Curves...staying warm or at least trying to.

Dress Me: Get a Leg Up!

Good Morning!

Snow flurries in October?? Who else is giving a sideeye to the weather?


Today's question comes from Emily- she writes "I see girls in cute tights all the time, and I wanted to know if there are any 'non-plain' options for us big girls? My thighs are big and usually I'm squeezing into tights fearful that I'll rip them. I'm tired of wearing just black or brown, what are your suggestions?"

YES Emily... there are tight options for those of us who are thick in the thighs! Cute and colorful tights are a definite trend for this fall - lucky for us there are now options for us to rock the colorful, patterned trends as before we didn't have a choice.

Lace Patterned Tights, $12.99, One Stop Plus

What's fun about tights is the "POP" factor, a normally blase dress has the ability to be transformed by a brightly colored or patterned pair of tights. (and we thought tights were just about functionality? nope!)


If patterns scare you try them in subtle soft colors first... also try to make the tights the background of your outfit instead of the main event wear them under skirts and boots. Also, layer them up - a bright color under fishnets is a good 2 for 1 event. Also, keep your clothes simple... an outfit that is loaded with patterns might clash with bright, patterned tight.

One trick I've learned is that the sizing is super tricky- those height and weight charts tend NOT to account that most of us are endowed in the bottom end - my suggestion: try the size up if you can to account for more space

Take a look at some options and show some leg!

Get a Leg Up! by LuvinMyCurves featuring We Love Colors tights

Here are some sites for you to shop around:

We Love Colors (they have colored fishnets too!)
Torrid
Dorothy Perkins - might fit a size 14, not sure!
Hue (runs on the smaller size, but worth a look)
Lane Bryant
One Stop Plus
Avenue

~Luvin' My Curves

Dress Me: Class is now in session...

Good Morning!

Whether we like it or not- some of us are back in the trenches of school once again. I received a couple of emails from teachers asking "What to Wear?" and this is especially fitting because I'm now in the same boat. I'm finding a small struggle between dressing within a conservative dress code while still remaining stylish and true to what I like and I see that alot of you are too.

Karen writes... "I've recently lost some weight and I want to buy some clothes that are still teacher appropriate but also show off my newly-discovered curves." while Annie expresses "I'm the youngest art teacher at my new school and I don't want to start dressing boring like the other teachers, any ideas?"

Well, Karen congrats on your "loss" and kudos to you for wanted to show off your curves... Annie, I feel your pain Being an educator it can be a fine line between what's seen as appropriate to wear in front of children but still age-appropriate, stylish and comfortable for you. Here are my top 5 no-fail picks...

1.ShiftDress

These are the kinds of dresses that you can make super professional with pearls and a cardigan, but if you'd like to go out after- mix it up with a scarf, belt or higher heels. I'm sure you're going to be busy,so you want to get pieces that transition seamlessly from day to evening and that can also look different with the addition of an accessory or sweater.

Calvin Klein Belted Ponte Knit Dress, $54.90, Nordstroms; Shira Pleated Knit Dress $47.90, Avenue

2. Fitted Blazers & Cardigans

Fitted blazers are the perfect way to flaunt your curves without getting lost in the bulk and cardigans are just a go to piece that you can throw over just about anything. For your blazers, play with colors & textures as they can definitely carry an otherwise plain outfit and don't be afraid to use your tailor (see Why You Need a Tailor) to get a bigger blazer taken in.

Murray Cardigan, $38, B & Lu; Seam detail Jacket $59.50,Coldwater Creek

3. Pants that fit just right...

A couple of pairs of pants in different basic colors and the outfit combination's become limitless. I picked trouser pants because they can not only flatter your smaller waistline (Karen) but can also be paired with Annie's favorite chunky heels- I'm sure a far cry from what the other teachers are wearing.

Right Fit Houston Pant, $39.99, Lane Bryant

4. Kitten Heels & Flats
If you can handle the 4" in the recess playground then I pump my fist to you!! But cute kitten heels , low platforms and flats are the perfect stylish & comfortable alternative to chasing kids or walking all over campus.

Ashur, $39.99, Bakers; Barefoot Tess Exotic Kitten Heel $189.95 & Hollywould Washington $217.22 both at Endless; Rockport Griano $65.66, Zappos.

(For some flat's inspiration check out my previous Post: Forever in Love with Flats)


5. Scarfs
The perfect go-to accessory for a cold classroom or a chilly study hall period. Also perfect way to cover up a blouse that goes too deep in the "v" if you know what I mean.

African Inspired Pashmina, African Tribal Arts; Wine Pashmina $30, Nitscreations (Etsy)

Do you have any suggestions for our teachers? What basics are you implementing in your closet this fall?

~Luvin' My Curves

Also, if you have a "Dress Me'' dilemma email me!

Making Waves..... Swim 2009

Good Morning!!

Memorial Day is not only when most Bbq's start up, it's the unofficial start to summer & beach season. This is the time of year when folks start stressing over getting their summer body or start stressing about not being ready for a swimsuit.This summer make the resolve to love your body as is... and wear a swimsuit that flaunts what you've got.


Like the maxi dress, you have to know your body and just know what will work best for your shape. When shopping for swimsuits- most curvy ladies are looking for support and style, here are the top 3 problems when looking for swimwear and my tips on how to solve it.

1. You Need to Support the girls....

If you're busty then you definitely need support for the girls. This does not mean that you have to cover them up you just need them to be lifted and supported, the trick is to find a suit that has a built in bra that will actually HOLD them.

Miraclesuit Escape $142, Hermes Tankini $89 , Carol Wior 1-piece $106, all from Always For Me

2. Fuller in the middle

Then you want to minimize your stomach area and draw attention elsewhere... try a nice pattern, detailing on the top, or even a tankini.

Shirred Front Tank Swimsuit $57.75, Land's End; Hisbiscus Halter Swimsuit $78, Torrid; High Velocity Tank $59.99 JCPenney

3. Thigh shy?

How about my personal favorite? Try a Skirtini or swimdress; both minimize the hips and thighs while the top takes attention away from your thighs. Get something with details on the top to draw further attention away.It's got that pin up girl look, perfect for profiling or actually swimming.

Nautical Swimdress $48.90 Avenue; Halter Swimdress with Ring $79, Twist Front Bandeau $79, 1-piece with rings $110

If you're absolutely against showing your curves this summer, at least get a cute cover up or sarong and PROMISE me that the t-shirt over the bathing suit uniform is BANISHED.

Cool Cotton Gauze $19.99-$24.99, Roamans; Chain Link Button Front Cover Up $28.90, Avenue

Have you all been swimsuit shopping yet?

Sites to check out:

Swimsuit just for us
Land's End
Uniquely Me
Always for Me
One Stop Plus

~Luvin' My Curves