Looking Back at 2007: Favorite New Stores

2007 was an eventful year for the plus size fashion industry, especially online. Last year was marked, amongst other things by appearances of full figured women on leading fashion catwalks… does the name Velvet d’Amour ring any bell?

The year which has just passed also meant much more fashion choice becoming available to plus size women, all over the world. In fact many new plus size clothing lines emerged, as well as online plus size stores, which continue to enrich the plus size fashion industry and most of all, add much more choice to curvy women.

In this post I’d like to take a quick look back at my favorite new stores, which either emerged or I got to know about, in 2007.

SWAK Designs: A true gem of an online store, which I am sure end up in the ‘Favorites’ list of those who visit it most of the time! SWAK Designs offers great apparel, which is curve hugging and curve flattering, for most occasions, and at very affordable prices. Whether you are looking for something casual to wear throughout the day, or something to wear at work, or even perhaps something sexy and sultry to wear on a night out or a hot first date, you will surely find it at SWAK Designs. Their collection online is a truly vast one, so I recommend that you do take your time to browse around all the items available at this online store. You don’t want to end up missing something now do you?!

Fashion Overdose: I must say, from the very first time I visited Fashion Overdose, it was added to my favorites list. However the plus size fashion you will find here might not be everyone’s cup of tea, and might even be a little bit too much to handle for some gals out there. But for those curvy ladies who embrace their ‘wild side’, and have a passion for punk, visiting Fashion Overdose is a must. The items found here are one of a kind, colorful, daring and will definitely get you noticed. This is the store I go to whenever I want something completely different, and I am feeling particularly daring and adventurous. My only qualm with this store is the online store and overall user experience with the website. It can definitely be improved with a little tweaks here and there, and even with broadband some items tale ages to load. But do not let that discourage you from exploring Fashion Overdose!

Mimi’s Curvy Corner: This is another little gem which I have discovered only recently. First of, I have had the chance to correspond with Mimi on a few occasions, and she is one sweet person who is completely dedicated to providing stylish plus size fashions, with a satisfying customer experience. That already puts my mind at rest, that this online store is managed by a plus size woman herself, whose aim is to provide full figured women with great fashion. At Mimi’s you will find both casual and evening wear, at great prices. Have a look for yourself! I very much hope more and more items are added to Mimi’s stores throughout 2008.

So there you have it, 2007’s best new stores, according to yours truly. The stores above have made giant leaps of success since I have started following them, and I am sure many more good things are yet to come. So let’s hope we hear more good stuff and see more curvalicious fashions from all of them in 2008.

Look Good Staying Warm Until Spring

At the height of winter, the only way to stay warm is to layer up. The key is to use thin layers, like long sleeved t-shirts, pointelle sweaters, and even tank tops with details. Top it all off with a belted jacket to create a slimming and warm look. But don’t forget about accessories! The right tote makes all the difference. Match your coat and bag to create a more cohesive outfit.

“I need to layer through the end of winter, its just too cold!” says Christine Alt, Woman Within Style Consultant. “I try to keep my layers smooth and neat for a streamlined tailored look. I always make sure that everything works together, even my bag!”

Woman Within’s selection of key layering pieces and great accessories:

The Mainstreet Blues™ Pointelle knit pullover sweater is thin yet warm. It is perfect over a button down shirt. Featured item $19.99 – $24.99

Tie it all together with the Veranesi™ Leather trench coat. Its soft leather will keep you warm and the belt will keep the look slim. Featured item $119.99 – $139.99

Barbara Wide Calf Boots are a great way to stay warm. They are designed to fit a wider calf. Featured item $49.99 – $54.99

This nylon tote bag has a great neat look perfect to complete a warm winter layered look. Featured item $24.99

Curvy Trends for 2007/2008 – Winter Fashion Forecast

The following is a guest post by Sara Johnson.

The fashion stars of winter 2007/2008 are a welcome beacon of shimmer, shine and pop of color in an often drab winter palette. 80′s glamour color palette, with updated flattering shapes, combined with the refined luxury of the 40′s have re-emerged throughout the fashion world to an applauding plus size audience.

Jewel tones hues for 2007/2008 are taking center stage, often times replacing the ever-present Little Black Dress as chic choices. Amethyst, cobalt, ruby and emerald are the universally flattering favorites, for all shapes and sizes. The standard myth that black slims, colors expand is being proven incorrect time and again with this gorgeous palette. Rich, saturated colors slim and flatter as well as their somber sister black and alternately, flatter the wearer’s coloring beautifully.

Choose quality fabric, in a rich tone designed to enhance your favorite feature. A beautiful plus size woman, wearing a pop of color in a sea of black is sure to add a little life to even the dullest of holiday hoop-lahs. Still choosing to stick with basic black dress? Add burst of color with bold amethyst satin Maryjane’s and a choice Kenneth Lane Cocktail ring and jeweled bangle set. Mix your accessory colors freely when wearing a solid black clothing palette for dramatic effect.

Shimmer and shine is no longer evening exclusive apparel, glittering choices for the season easily carry the wearer from day to night. Satin shimmering blouses are easily paired with sexy blazers for day and a sexy pair of metallic heels and bold cocktail jewelry for night. Jeweled detailing at the hem, neckline and sleeves add standout detailing to basic shapes we love. When wearing shimmer apply the same rules used with animal print; chose one garment to shine.

Modern opulence combined with the refinement of the 40′s creates an easy assumed elegance for the winter 2007/2008 season. Structured jackets, paired with high waisted trousers in tweeds and wool create the perfect foil when worn with a silk blouse in one of the afore mentioned jewel tones. Feminine curves have made a reappearance in winter design; the tailored styling, supple quality fabrics and flattering design have women with true feminine curves rejoicing.

Winter fashion this season personifies the confidence and empowerment of the modern plus size woman. Curves haven’t been targeted and celebrated in such an effective manner in decades and the shift is receiving a gracious welcome. Flattering choices for the curvy woman are aplenty this season, discriminating, bold fashion lovers, enjoy!

Who is Sara Johnson?
Sara Johnson is the co-owner and product buyer at Velvetsiren.com – A posh plus size clothing boutique for curvy girls. She currently works as a fashion consultant for curvy women worldwide. Come see what everyone is talking about!

Curvy Holiday Style – What To Wear

The following is a guest post by Sara Johnson.

With the holidays rapidly approaching, many are searching for the perfect attire for seasonal parties. Making sure one is function appropriate often proves more difficult than finding a fabulous ensemble. The following definitions cover most of the party attire requirements seen during the holidays and guarantee you’ll look fab and function appropriate in whatever you chose.

Cocktail attire is a consistent party theme throughout the holidays. It’s name is derived quite aptly from the concept of people gathering prior to a formal dinner or event for cocktails. Appropriate attire consists of dresses, ranging from mid-thigh to one inch below the knee. Tailored pants suits are also appropriate, however consider avoiding a business standby, instead add accents in a vibrant color, chose a fitted cut or incorporate a suit created from a unique textile. Silk, Chatung, Brocade, Polyester, Cashmere, Rayon, Velour, Velvet and Velveteen are all appropriate cocktail fabrics and embellishments with beading and sequins are also appropriate.

Every so often, you will find yourself being asked to wear semi formal attire to such events as weddings and award ceremonies. This form of attire gets the most attention, but often because of its universal use. Many associate other forms of dress such as cocktail attire, with semi-formal. However, Semi-formal attire is much more formal than cocktail attire. Pants suits may be worn if refined in construction and dresses ranging from an inch above the knee to two inches above the ankle are appropriate. Taffeta, Chiffon, Silk, Satin, Sateen, Gossamer, Brocade, Rayon, Velour, Velvet, Velveteen are all appropriate semi-formal fabric choices.

Occasionally business formal dress requirements are seen, often in work related or political functions. Business formal is the same as semi formal, however women should chose more tailored dresses or pants suits. Slinky, sexy or revealing attire is generally best suited for a NON-business formal affair.

Black tie, or formal attire requires cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates. Pants suits or dress suits are rarely appropriate for formal wear. Dresses rage from knee length to ankle and may vary from a straight sheath to a full skirt and fitted bodice. Sequin and beaded embellishment is appropriate and the fabrics Taffeta, Chiffon, Silk, Satin, Sateen, Gossamer, Brocade, Rayon, Velour, Velvet, Velveteen are all considered the textile norm. Colors vary seasonally, with black remaining a consistent standby favorite.

Following the above guide to the holiday season party circuit is sure to assist you in looking fabulous, and function appropriate. If, or when in doubt, the stylist services at Velvet Siren are happy to provide attire suggestions. Happy Holidays and enjoy!

Who is Sara Johnson?
Sara is the co-owner and product buyer at http://www.velvetsiren.com – A posh plus size clothing boutique for curvy girls. She currently works as a fashion consultant and personal shopper for curvy women worldwide. Come see what everyone is talking about!