PSW: Where to Shop

I know it sucks when you go to the mall and all of the stores are geared toward size 0's, but it is totally THEIR LOSS. I was just reading about British department store Debenham's (which I've used on the site before) using size 14 mannequins and the marketing director saying that it was because most of their shoppers were (duh) a size 14. Aaaaaand how long did it take them to figure it out?

Luckily, you can find clothing stores that are non frumpy AND have clothes that will fit. And more and more of them are rolling out every day. Here is a comprehensive list of plus-size stores, what you'll find there and what you should buy (OMG I love telling people what to buy.) Note that not all of these are plus-size specific stores, some just have extensive plus size product lists. WOO!

PlusSizeFix.com



Unfortunately, PSF is only an online store, but I love it for "all of my friends are going out and I don't want to be the frumpy one" clothes. Mostly trendy stuff, it goes to 3XL and the whole site is filled with cute stuff like this beaded shirt here. Pair with some trouser jeans and a pointy toe and you have girl's night out DOWN.

Lane Bryant


LB has been working hard to change it's image lately, and I really love the new stuff. This pencil skirt is amazing, and their stuff fits well. They are also completely dedicated to helping you find something you like, which means going to the actual store will be a good experience. Best for well fitting, staple pieces that you'll wear again and again.

Faith21 by Forever21

K, it's no secret I love me some Forever 21 accessories, but I love their new plus size line, Faith21 too. Best for trendy pieces, check online first to see what you like. If you want to go in-store, call ahead; some stores don't have Faith21 yet. The larger ones will though. They do a lot of horizontal stripes, so beware. But I LOVE this feather shirt (I have a peacock obsession)

Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor Loft

In sizes up to 18, AT and ATL can cater to the plus size crowd as well. While some of the pieces can be pricey, they are awesome for basics like jeans, dresses and skirts that you want to invest some coin into. I much prefer ATL over AT, but whatever floats your boat!

Torrid

Best for younger moms who aren't ready to dress like they are 35 *just yet*, I love Torrid for younger, less apologetic pieces. Sometimes I find that plus size clothing can be all about hiding or trying to blend in, which is why I love Torrid for being all "whatever" and trying bright, flashy, sexy clothing. II love their line of tights and they always have awesome pencil skirts.

Avenue

Avenue is awesome for a more polished look that is hyper flattering. These people know how to dress plus size figures. How awesome is this dress/sweater/belt combo? I love. And all of their stuff is just plain PRETTY. For sure one of my faves, and great for those PEOPLE I KNOW who are always scared of looking too young in clothes.

Some other places to try?

Old Navy: Old Navy has a plus size line that goes up to 30 and allows you to get great, one season basics.


While Old Navy clothes aren't made to stand the test of time, per say, you can get lots of cheap stuff to last you through the summer so you can update your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Maurice's: Their stores are awesome and it is literally impossible not to find something you like there. They have a plus size section that goes up to 3XL OR 24 and their maxi dresses and business wear stuff is awesome.


(Also, they have really, really good sales. I bought a kimono sweater from there for like $6 BOOM!)

Alright, I think that should do it. There should be no excuse for not finding a place to shop. Remember that most department stores, like Macy's, will also have plus size sections. Whether you head to a specialty store or just a store that offers your size, there are plenty of trends and clothes to try.

Go forth and shop!

New Rules for Plus Sizes

The fans over on Facebook know how much the term "plus-size" irks me. I always watch "America's Next Top Model" with the sad realization that if, through some complete lapse in judgment, I became a contestant on that show, I would have to stump for plus sizes, despite being fairly average sized. And have you been watching the Lane Bryant controversy with plus-size model Ashley Graham? Her commercials were pulled off the air for having "too much cleavage" while Victoria's Secret ads still ran all hours of the day. I actually saw her on Leno the other night and her body is crazy. CRAZY.

The problem with the whole "plus size" thing is that plus size is actually average in the States, so does that mean anyone smaller than a 6 or 8 should be "minus size"? It's confusing.

The thing is, I get it. Once upon a time, I Was an impossibly tiny size 2. With each pregnancy I've gained a size. I've stayed the same weight, but my body is totally redistributed from all of that good stuff pregnancy and childbirth has to offer (bed rest, anyone? omg worst.) By the way, thanks to my lovely children, A and A. With each pregnancy I've had to learn to readjust my opinion of my body and learn to dress it all over again. And each time I've had to get over my fitting room fears and buck up and do it.

When I was in Canada, one of my oldest friends (not old in the sense of age, but old in the sense that she's known me since I was a baby) mentioned how hard it was to find good clothes for plus sizes and admonished me to put more on the blog about plus sizes and the like. I am happily obliging, because this week that's all we'll focus on. What to wear, where to shop, what not to buy, and how to come to grips with your size.

The first rule doesn't need a fancy outfit picture. It's DRESS THE BODY YOU HAVE. No matter if you need to lose a few pounds, that shouldn't mean that you have to feel like crap until you drop a fiver, you know? You deserve to look good NOW and dress your body well, whether you're a size 2 or a 22. Don't wear sweats because you don't want to buy a pair of jeans until you drop a few. Because that's only giong to perpetuate a cycle of not feeling good about yourself, and that's silly.

Second rule? Monochromatic looks are just as slimming as all black.

Items in this set:
Coral 'Caris' cardigan, 39 GBP
Old Navy Womens Coffee Grounds Plus Size Boot-Cut Perfect Khakis, $33
Flats - Shoes, $23
Old Navy Womens Zipper-Pocket Canvas Handbags, $24
Brown floral cuff watch, 25 GBP

We've talked about this before. That there is *some* truth the "black is slimming" rule of the olden days. But now we know it's the color palette that does more than the actual color black. Pairing up different shades of the same color gives you a long lovely line. AND if you accessorize with a pop of color, you don't look so dang depressed. Place the color near your face. It'll brighten your whole look and draw the eye upward. Above, the outfit works because of the browns. Then, layering a crisp shirt with a sweater gives you extra coverage for problem areas. Belts are SO your friends. Place it at the smallest part of your waist, wherever that might be. It'll be different on just about everyone. Then you'll have legs for days. Also, remember to carry a bag in proportion to your size. I don't like seeing a tiny purse under the arm of someone who should be carrying a satchel or something. How cute is this outfit for shopping and everyday? I love.

Third rule? SHOW. SOME. FREAKIN'. LEG.

Items in this set:
Arden B Kimono Sleeve Tie Wrap, $44
Not Your Daughters Jeans - Plus Size Emma Pencil Skirt Classic Overdye..., $98
Plus Size Clothing, Basic Tank Tops, Spaghetti Straps, for Women, $15
Carlo Fellini N009, $38
Gunmetal cascading disc post earrings, 6 GBP

Okay, I actually get mad when plus size girls cover up their legs with long skirts and dresses. Your legs are awesome and shapely, I promise. When paired with a pencil skirt and peeptoe shoes, the look is so Jessica Rabbit and feminine. Everyone is always afraid that pencil skirts will accentuate the hips. YES, THAT'S THE POINT. Of course, if you really feel uncomfortable in one, an a-line skirt will work just fine. But show off some kickin' curves by choosing a shirt that has full coverage, but a super defined waist line. AND, as an added bonus, a pencil skirt can kind of "tuck" you in for a more streamlined look. When it comes to clutches, keep it on the larger side. Something with a lot of details will work best. It's just plain sexy, which you can be at any size. Seriously. Your husband will love it.

Rule four? Step out with layers.

Items in this set:
Plus Size Club Wear, Sexy Plus Size Clothing, Dresses, and Tops for..., $68
Plus Size Club Wear, Sexy Plus Size Clothing, Dresses, and Tops for..., $28
Old Navy Womens Dark Wash Womens Plus Size Low-Rise Boot-Cut Jeans, $25
AK Anne Klein Catherine Pumps, $50
Shop Shoulder Bags, Totes and other Handbags at the ALDO Shoes Online..., $30

First of all, HOW AMAZING IS THIS JACKET? And only $68. Buy immediately, I believe it comes in sizes up to 2XL and it is a perfect, non-chubby girl topper. This look is more for a date night or girl's night out. Get some dark-wash denim. It'll make the leg look long and lean. Fit the largest part of your leg, usually the hip or thigh, and tailor the jeans back if you must. Make good friends with a tailor. Pointy shoes give the illusion that the leg is extending past the jean, which makes your legs look longer overall. A shirt with a banded bottom gives you plenty of coverage, but layering it with lots of necklaces and a seriously killer leather jacket keeps the look interesting and not at all frumpy. When choosing a jacket for layering, look for one that ALREADY has a feminine shape on the hanger. You should be able to see darting and construction that looks feminine before you even put it on. Stay away from boxy shapes and collars, they'll add weight to you. Seriously, this one is awesome.

Finally, rule number five? Get over your label. Yes, the fashion industry calls you "plus sized" but you're in good company. Just because your magazine or commercial makes you feel like the ONLY one doesn't mean it's true. Take a good friend, go shopping and think outside the box a little. Stop trying to hide your body, and start looking for ways to accentuate to positive. Have a great rack? Wear a sweetheart neckline. Killer legs? Look for skirts or shorts. Teensy waist? Blow your money on waist-defining belts.

Alright, we've officially kicked off PLUS SIZE WEEK. (Imagine confetti falling from the sky. Sorry if I just messed up your computer room.) Next up? You're going to get the list of where to shop for plus sizes. Are you excited? I AM!

Freaky Friday: Reader Submissions

I have the best readers in the whole wide world, I really do. When I first started this blog, it was for a handful of my friends that were asking me what to wear. Little by little, we gained speed and now I have a whole army of moms who e-mail me gross things they spot while perusing the web. And that makes me very, very happy. If you see something awful, make sure to e-mail me or post it on the fanpage. We can all discuss and say "EW" together, and that will warm my heart.


My Aunt Colleen reminded me of the return of the PAJAMA JEAN! They're jeans! They're pajamas! And they only reek of sadness and desperation a little bit!


One of my favorite regular posters and sometimes girlfriend, Arienette sent me these abominations. What's with the flappy pockets? They look like gills. Also, Arienette promised she would have my babies if I posted this, so ... this could get awkward.

YAY! Megan S. sent me FIESTANATIVEAMERICAN clogs. Like really? Just pick a genre. Whatever it is, it shall be ugly. Clogs have no place in your closet.



Carly B. sent me some awesome foot undies. APPARENTLY they are for dancers, but is the crotch-seaming really necessary? She also pointed out that this is a creepy foot fetish pervert's DREAM. Ick. Watch me get a million hits from dirty fetish sites now, THANKS CARLY.


Emily C. sent along this romper offering, knowing how much I would appreciate the giant front bum that it induces. She knows me all too well.


Jessica S. e-mailed over a prime example of what happens when a ballerina, a Barbie, and my four year old get together and drink tequila. They throw up and create these shoes. Sweet mother, that is a lot of pink bows.


This is technically for my sister in law. Every time we go shopping she feels the need to remind me that she is in her 30s and doesn't want to look like she is trying too hard to be young. I finally have a definitive answer: This headband makes you look like you're trying too hard to be young. It also makes you look like the lovechild of Minnie Mouse and Madonna.


WHY? WHY ROMPERS AGAIN? Steph P. sent along this super awful example. Remember when we talked about good floral and bad floral? This floral is very, very bad. I honestly think I owned CULOTTES like this at age nine. CULOTTES!!!


Yup. Definitely squeeze yourself into mint green tapered jeans. And then pair them with hoofy- shoes. Perfect. You now look like my favorite flavor of ice cream. Thanks to Debbie K., for making me crave mint chocolate chip at 9 am.

I think I need to lie down now.

I want all of you guys to bookmark this site for next week (as if you haven't already) because next week we'll be talking about plus sizes! Woo hoo. We just discussed how I hate the term "plus sized" in general, so let's just say if you're more than a size six, you'll want to tune in... or surf over? I don't know what to say?

Let's also give a big thanks to Nat, who is almost done her pregnancy. She's done an awesome job with Maternity Monday, and I think all you preggers are better dressed for it, am I right?

Happy weekend!

What to Wear: To a Wedding

Did you guys miss me while I played in Canada? I got some awesome material up there for the blog. I took my cousin shopping for Europe of all places, and it was awesome.

But first, I want to talk about something I get asked ALL. THE. TIME. If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me what to wear to a wedding, I would have AT LEAST a million dollars, no joke. I think weddings are stressful because you're going to see a lot of people, and dress codes can be vague. In a lot of cases, dress code isn't specified at all, so you're left scratching your head a little.

To me, what to wear to a wedding relies heavily on the kind of couple that is getting married, the time of day the wedding will be held, the venue and who is invited. With those key pieces of information, you can show up looking just right, instead of under-dressed or over-dressed (But really, is there anything worse than showing up over-dressed? Seriously.)

Basically, weddings can be categorized in three ways. Technically four if you count black tie formal, but does anyone other than Donald Trump do that any more? So I left it out. But if for some reason you're a member of high society and invited to a black tie wedding, wear a full length gown. That's all I have for you.

Garden Party or Outdoor Formal

Items in this set:
Floral Tube Dress by Rare**, $84
Wedges|Shoes:Wedge Shoes, Wedge Boots, Wedge Heel, Wedge Sandal,..., $21
ASOS Oversized Pleat Pushlock Clutch, $30
Silver Flower Lace Ring, $50
Carolee - Retro Charms Drop Charm Earrings 1759EP5778 (White..., $38

Okay, if the wedding is going to take place outside, but will be a formal sit-down meal, you need to dress up. Likewise if the wedding will take place before 6 p.m. You can get away with something a bit more casual than a cocktail wedding, but I think it should still be pretty and airy so you don't show up looking like you're ready to party. A floral dress, of course, is nice for outside, and the colors are muted so that you don't look like you're trying to steal the show. If the wedding is outside ALWAYS WEAR WEDGES. Heels will end up sinking into the grass every time, mark my words. Clutches are a must for a sit-down meal at the reception. You don't want a big bag sitting on the ground because you have nowhere to put it, and a clutch can be laid right on the table.

Casual Indoor or Outdoor OR Evening Wedding Where Children are Invited

Items in this set:
Ruched Side Tee - Teen Clothing by Wet Seal, $25
Plus Size Border Pleat Skirt at Avenue.com and JessicaLondon.com, $35
Report Kimball, $48
Miso Layer Coin Necklace, 9.99 GBP
Large Stone Cuff, 9 GBP

If the wedding is followed by something uber casual outdoor, like a barbecue or receiving line only, casual dress is fine. I mean casual like a khaki skirt. NOT jeans casual. Never wear jeans to a wedding, ever, I don't care where it is held or if the bride is getting married in a Juicy velour suit. It is just bad form. But a plain shirt and khaki skirt, piled high with necklaces for interest is totally okay. I would dress like this even for an evening wedding if it is a family event with lots of kids running around. If the bride has said that kids can come to the wedding, she's resigned to the fact that it won't be super formal. Oh, and flats are totally fine... how awesome are those ones? They look like Tinkerbell shoes and I love. With a casual wedding, you can bring a bigger bag, just hold it on your arm rather than your shoulder, please?

Cocktail Attire

Items in this set:
Rock Black Dress, 60 GBP
Bow Bustle Dress, 25 GBP
Heels|Shoes:Stiletto Heel,Heel Pump,Women's High Heel Shoes,Spool..., $25
Grape Satin Bow Open Toe Platform Pump @ Amiclubwear Heel Shoes online..., $19
La Regale 25415, $42

Now, if the wedding is after 6 p.m. or "Cocktail" is specified on the invitation, it's time to dress up my friend! As a rule of thumb, wear what you would wear to a swanky restaurant with your husband if you were really trying to impress him and the food was really expensive. It used to be that black was outlawed at weddings, but now little black dresses are the standard. Standout by pairing yours with interesting details (feather shoulder!) and awesome shoes. If you are less of an in-your-face fancy dresser, a demure dress with a fuller skirt like the navy one above works too. I've paired the whole thing with monochromatic accessories to make it worth a second look, but not scary contrasting. Clutches all around because big bag ruins sleek dresses every time.

I think we got it all, didn't we? Any wedding you should be able to classify into these three dress codes (unless the formal thing, which we discussed, WHERE YOU EVEN PAYING ATTENTION?) Now that wedding season has begun and I'll be receiving roughly 9,655 invitations A DAY (Hooray for Happy Valley, Utah!) I want you to be ready as I am to attend, eat cake and look pretty for pictures.

Maternity Monday - "Your Feet Are Swollen"

My mother-in-law has been informing me for weeks (every single time she sees me), that my feet are swollen. I've been in denial. They look the same to me. But yesterday, as I was heading out the door for church, I tried to slip on my red peeptoe heels. And they didn't fit. There was no way I was going to be able to squish my fat feet into them. I was horrified. My whole outfit had been planned around those shoes. I settled for my black pumps, as painful as it was to shove my feet into them.

This never happened to me in my previous pregnancies! I wore 4-inch heels to the end. But now, with weeks left to go, I can't fit into any of my favorite shoes. It's a sad sad day. Because of my predicament, I've spent the last hour looking for shoes that might work for me. Here are my findings.

Because of my addiction to heels, I still need some height. I wore wedges this weekend for several hours and felt just fine. Therefore, I refuse to give up wedges!

(Steve Madden)

These will still give me the height I want, but will be a little less rough on my extra plump footsies. Ditto to espadrilles like these:(Zappos)
I'd like these better without the ankle strap right now. I don't need a tight strap to draw attention to my swollen ankles.

I'll be honest. I'm not a huge fan of kitten heels. While I like a cute kitten heel on other people, I'm just not used to how they look on me. But I found these patent leather ones that I think I could handle. I think it's the chunkiness of the heel. (Zappos)

These are cute, too. I could handle these as a substitute to my usual Sunday heels.

(Zappos)

Thankfully, spring has arrived, which means I can wear flats, sandals, flip flops...typical Florida girl footwear. And my feet thank me for it. (Charlotte Russe)

(American Eagle)

If you're in the same boat as me and are having issues with swollen feet, there are a few things you can do.

- Put your feet up whenever possible

- Don't cross your legs when sitting

- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time. Change positions regularly to let the blood flow.

- Drink more water.

- Exercise. Even just walking helps.

- Avoid junk food. (HAHAHAHAHAHA)

If you do decide to go get shoes that fit more comfortably, go shopping in the evening. That's when your feet will be at their biggest. And try not to cry too much when you see you've gone up a size. Chances are, the swelling will go down after the baby comes and you'll be back in your normal size. So no need to go out and get a whole closet full of bigger shoes. Darn it.

Maternity Monday - After You Pop

Those first few weeks after you have a baby are the hardest. You’re sleep deprived, adjusting to a new crazy schedule, you’re still carrying more weight than you’d like, and you basically feel like a big fat frumpalumpagus.

For me, taking some time to try to look my best despite the craziness going on all around me really helps me feel more positive about myself. You already know I think you should rock a girdle, but what do you wear over it?

Loose Tops

When I was pregnant for the first time, baby doll tops or empire waist tops like the ones above were everywhere. While these are great for hiding post partum tummy bulge, they aren't my favorite option.

TunicsThere are so many different styles of tunics right now. They're just as loose as baby doll shirts, but so much less...baby doll-y. And the ones that are button down are easy access for nursing.

Elastic Hems and Bands

These are my favorite right now. Shirts with an elastic hem or thick band around the bottom are everywhere. The loose fit nicely hides the flabiness you don't want anyone to see.

Even if you're just lounging around the house, fight the urge to throw on your husband's oversized t-shirt and opt for a more feminine loose fitting shirt like the one below. You'll feel loads better about yourself.

A winged cardigan is also great for hiding the fun rolls that pregnancy leaves behind.(All tops from Forever 21)

Stretchy Bottoms

I'm not going to lie. I have c-sections so the first week I’m home from the hospital, I live in these:
But that’s just in the comfort of my home. If I’m going to venture out of the house, I try to look more put together. There are options other than sweatpants that are just as comfortable, but much more stylish.

Drawstring PantsThese drawstring pants are as easy and comfortable as a pair of yoga pants, but will look much cuter as you're out and about running errands.

Summer Linen PantsDitto on these. But I find it highly unnecessary to tuck your shirt into them like this model.

Jeans are totally comfortable, too, as long as they have some stretch in them.

(Pants from Forever 21)

Skirts

(Skirts from Old Navy)

There are so many casual skirt options for spring and summer. The two above have a stretchy waist band perfect for those first few postpartum weeks.

Last tip for feeling more like a hot momma than a hot mess in those first few weeks of sleepless nights and 'round the clock feedings: put on some make up!! Conceal those under eye circles. Put on some blush to brighten up your cheeks. Check out Jae’s make up post to see how to brighten your tired eyes.

Freaky Friday

I'm full-on sick with the flu today, so I'm going to hammer out some freaky Friday goodness and then go back to bed and curse my decision to ever have children. It is the WORST when you're sick. Boo, I had plans to shop today. The fashion gods must be angry with my hatred of capris.



FINE! I'll say it! This dress makes her look a little hippy. HIPPOPOTAMUS-Y, THAT IS!

I'm not proud of myself.


Sadly, these are not marketed for Halloween. But what can you expect from a clothing company called "Nasty Gal"?


What is with the furry clog shoe?? It is horrifying. I don't know whether to wear it or ride it up a mountain.



Sweet mother. This is a very expensive, very confusing shirt. I feel like it's the equivalent of a man's tuxedo shirt. Like, casual but FANCY all at once.



Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, BEELTEJUICE!


Aaaand this would be the wrong way to wear shorts. Is it really necessary to have them super short AND tie-dyed AND torn up by an angry cat? Now it's just overkill.


But why? WHY were these pants on sale for $3? THEY ARE SO FLATTERING.



I swear, they'll give a fashion line to any celeb. From the much-anticipated Flinestone line.

Well, do any of you want to go shopping in my stead? I have a date with a few talk shows, some sweatpants and my own pity.