The Curvy Shopper

Inclusive Sizing

BigGirlBlue — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:19:30 -0800

This fall Fashion Bug introduced inclusive sizing for their fashions -- no more separate areas for regular and plus sizes. Most of their fashions are available in sizes 6 to 32. Fashion Bug currently ships within the U.S. Hopefully some time soon they will offer their plus size product line elsewhere. Especially since they have so many good pieces. Like the tops pictured here, all under $30!!

A Couples Halloween

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:12:37 -0700

It's hard enough trying to pick a personal plus size costume without having to come up with ideas for a couples costume. Here's thirty ideas to help get your creative juices flowing. Some can be bought in store and some, if you are really creative, can be made at home:

Princess Leia and Jedi
Mr. and Mrs. Smith
Betty and Barney
Velma and Daphne
Superman and Lois Lane
Wonder Woman and Major Steve Trevor
Roman God and Goddess
Linebacker and Cheerleader
Nurse and Doctor (don't think traditional!)
Police Officer and Prisoner
Two Cherries
Spartan and Queen
Bollywood Beauty and Beau
Evil Raggedy Ann and Andy
Dog and Beth, Bounty Hunters
Ghostly Married Couple
Mummy Queen and King
Edward and Bella
Pirate and his Wench (or her wench)
Frankenstein and Bride
Hawaiian Hula Family
Batman and Robin (he was always kind of feminine anyway)
Dog and Dog Catcher (or cat)
Cougar and her Boy Toy
Vampire and Vampire Slayer (don't think traditional)
Hugh and Bunny
Harry Potter and Sexy Owl
Male and Female Hollywood Starlettes
Marc Antony and Cleopatra
Mickey and Mallory Knox (Natural Born Killers)

Crystal Renn on Hungry

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:00:24 -0700

One of my favorite models since the first time I laid eyes on her is Crystal Renn. This month she celebrated the official release of her biography Hungry which highlights some of the emotional and physical hurdles she has overcome to attain her goals. Here is a quick video courtesy of Ford Models (who represent her):

Plusologie

BigGirlBlue — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 20:30:33 -0700

Plus size clothing is growing in leaps and bounds; and no, I don't mean sizes, I'm talking about selection. Regardless what mainstay media would have us believe there are a lot of choices out there for plus size clothing if the shopper is willing to go beyond their neighborhood.

I'm totally siked about a new company that is opening up shop online this fall. September 25th to be exact. Mark your calendars! Plusologie (say that ten times real fast) by Karolina Easley is the love child of Karol Jarvis.

Plusolgie's Mission: "To provide a brand that is stylish, sophisticated, and comfortable for the plus size consumer reflecting the notion that the plus size consumers watch the same TV shows, read the same fashion magazines, love fashion, newness, color, and want to be just as fashionable and neat as anyone else."

Here's a sneak peak:

Keep an eye on the Plusologie official website (or sign up for their newsletter) for more.

Gearing Up for a Plus Size Halloween

BigGirlBlue — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 15:32:50 -0700

Torrid is gearing up for Halloween with even more costume options than ever -- thirteen so far. Being Torrid you know their costumes are going to be a little edgier than what your mama used to dress you up in. Their plus size costumes are available in combo sizes 1/2 and 3/4 with prices ranging from $65.99+ (not all accessories may be included).

Here's just a few of my favorites:

Clockwise from top right: Lady Luck, Naughty Cop, Candy Striper, Miss Wonderland, and Fairy Tale Princess in the center. Other options include: Riding Hood, Pirate, Miss Muffet, Queen of Wonderland, French Maid, Snow Princess, Heidi. Not your cup of tea? Here's a listing to find plus size Halloween costumes.

Finding Happiness

BigGirlBlue — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:57:37 -0700

“

"If your happiness depends on what somebody else does, I guess you do have a problem."

”~ Richard Bach

Honeycomb Tee

BigGirlBlue — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 16:44:44 -0700

I've been really impressed this year with Liz Claiborne's plus size styles ever since they gave their website and line an overall. Even their plus size models look plus size!

I absolutely love this honeycomb boatneck tee from Liz Claiborne, part of many great new arrivals for fall. Take some time in your online browsing to pop over there and check them out. Great cuts, great patterns, lush colors.

The honeycomb tee also comes in black and cream. It is available in sizes 1x to 3x for $45.

Take 30% off everything at LizClaiborne.com from 08-24-09 to 08-27-09. No promotion code needed.Yep, that includes their already reduced merchandise too!

Hot Patterns for Plus Sizes

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:49:34 -0700

It's not too late to play with summer dresses. Macy's plus size clothing line has a lovely array of patterns that are actually pretty and interesting to look at instead of the usual we've been subjected too elsewhere. Some of them even qualify for free shipping!

And yes, if you absolutely don't do patterns Macy's has many solid dresses in a variety of styles. All the plus size dresses you see here are under $100 and offered in sizes up to 3X:

Skirt-a-licious

BigGirlBlue — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:06:20 -0700

Tabeez is a new plus size clothing store to me. In actuality they have been serving customers in sizes 0 to 22 since 2008. I was immediately captivated by their prices and affordable plus size fashions. There isn't a huge selection of styles but they are worth exploring.

You could go skirt crazy there with these lovely styles and still not break your pocket book. All the skirts you see here are under $50 (some are even under $30). Tabeez offers free shipping on orders in the U.S. on orders $150 and over.

Who else has crazy fabulous skirts right now? Torrid. Be sure to check them out also.

Beth Ditto Rocks Evans

BigGirlBlue — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 20:51:27 -0700

Punk super diva Beth Ditto (Who is Beth Ditto) is no stranger to bending the fashion curve. As a plus size beauty who's not afraid to flaunt her curves (she's posed nude for at least three magazine covers) she's always has a unique style with a sharp edge. Most importantly she's not afraid to do what she wants. This summer she's joined the UK clothing company Evans to create twenty-four pieces for the Beth Ditto collection. Here are just a few of the best pieces:

The collection is available exclusively from Evans stores, their website and the official Ditto Evans online store. And in case you are wondering, yes, they ship to the United States. And it is rather reasonable as are the clothing prices.

Retro Plus Size Swimwear

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:19:35 -0700

Itsy teenie weenie bikinis are out according to Forbes.

That works just fine for the majority of the swimsuit population (well the female contingent anyway).

Hot looks for swimwear this summer include polka dots, halter straps and ruched fabric.

One of my favorite plus size swimsuit providers is Always for Me and they have retro plus size swimwear that will knock your sock off and have your toes pining for a dip in the pool.

Like this Ocho Rios Twist One Piece Bandeau in sizes 16 to 26 for $79. It gives the polka dot bikini the updated look almost every one can wear.

Liz Claiborne Plus

BigGirlBlue — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 14:39:22 -0700

Just when you think they are no longer offering plus sizes they release their new line. Liz Claiborne, working under the design genious of Isaac Mizrahi has about twenty-five items in their new plus size collection. Bold, bright and comfortable seems to be the trend for spring.

Liz Claiborne offers plus sizes 1x to 3x and all of their choices are under $100. Their hot color of the season? Persimmon:

The Plus Size 'Maxi' Dress

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:53:13 -0700

The "maxi" dress is a hot item for plus size women this summer. Plus size clothing retailer Igigi has some of the loveliest ones available: flowing skirts, empire waists, surplice necklines, bra friendly and fully lined.

This Elena Maxi Dress even comes with a co-ordinating shrug for when the day gets cool or if you are feeling a bit bashfull about your upper arms and want to ease into baring them. This shrug designs still allows for ventilation under the arms should things warm up. It comes in sizes 14 to 32 for $162.

Sealed With a Kiss

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 21 May 2009 20:13:16 -0700

Sealed with a Kiss, or SWAK designs for short, is an online plus size clothing shop offering a small line of trendy clothing at affordable prizes.

Like this adorable Nicollette Checkered Dress for $45 which comes in white/black, pink/black and teal/black. This dress is available in sizes 1x to 6x.

One of my favorite things about Swak is that they offer their customers free worldwide shipping (minimum $40 purchase). A complete rariety in the plus size clothing sector or any other.

Swak makes most of their unique designs but does offer a few other labels. While you might not like every piece they have I'm sure you will find one to three affordable items that you do.

Sealed With A Kiss Designs - Click Here To Shop!

Adele Sends Shivers Through the Stratosphere

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 21 May 2009 19:26:33 -0700

One of my favorite plus size recording artist at the moment is Londoner, Adele. I first saw her on Saturday Night Live last year and have been addicted ever since. Make You Feel My Love (written by Bob Dylan) is my absolutely favorite song right now. Her voice slays me. Fashion wise, she strikes me as a rebel.

No One Is Perfect

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 21 May 2009 19:19:09 -0700

“

"Shows like Family Guy and The Simpsons insult fat people but also everyone else. They pull everyone down to their level and allow everyone to laugh it off. That’s probably how it should be. We need to recognize that we are, well, people. In the end I think it helps people with acceptance. No one is perfect, and if you are, you’re alone."

”Lara Frater

Bubble Dress for Plus Body

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 07 May 2009 12:43:59 -0700

One of the hottest looks this past year has been the bubble dress. At least if you had a slim and trim body.

But that didn't stop plus size companies from following suit. Much to my dismay, ugly bubble dresses were popping up everywhere.

Not until now have I seen a bubble dress that actually looks beautiful on a plus size form. Thanks to plus size trendy clothing shop, Torrid.

I love the Blue Brushstroke Glam Knit Bubble Dress. It has a subtle bubble so plus size chics don't look like a giant pear. The pattern is extremely flattering and broken up by the ruched black waist. I love ruched anything!

It is currently on sale for $54 (regular $74). It comes in sizes 0 to 3. If you spend $100 at Torrid, shipping is free.

Flirty Dresses and Tops

BigGirlBlue — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:37:09 -0700

Spring has sprung and so have the new styles. Plus size boutique, Kiyonna released a few flirty fashions to get any curvy shopper into the mood.

Like the Tory Cinch Dress in blush (also available in passionately purple and black). This faux wrap dress with accent ruffle comes in sizes 10 - 32 for $126.

Or the Felicity Blouson Blouse in floral water print. It comes in sizes 10 - 32 for $88. Great with jeans, dress pants or if you are already venturing, shorts!

To help curvy shoppers celebrate spring Kiyonna has also issued a coupon to help keep some money in your purse. Curvy customers can save $25 off their purchases of $175 or more. The coupon code is: COLOR. It expires August 1, 2009.

Either Or Plus Size Clothing Sale

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:17:18 -0700

Reitman's triple threat: Addition-Elle / Penningtons / MXM has an EITHER OR sale on for curvy shoppers. All three plus size shops are shoppable at the same time so curvy chics can shop satisfy all cravings at one time instead of having to shop at three different sites with three different orders. Their shippings to the U.S. and Canada are incredibly reasonable which makes them even more attractive.

Of the three, Addition-Elle is probably my favorite. Two items spoke to the curvy fashionista in me today. This lovely V-neck tunic with bead accents at the neck for $59.99. And these fabulous double waist jeans from Vigoss for $89.99:

From now until March 31st curvy shoppers can pick the promotion that best suits their purchase. With option one they can get $25 off a $100 purchase. The coupon code is simply: OPTION1. With option two they can get 20% off their entire order. The coupon code is simply: OPTION2.

Spring Fashion Finds at Lane Bryant

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:34:36 -0700

It's spring! Well, almost. No reason not to fit in a little spring fever shopping as it will be here before we know it. And we all no how important it is to be prepared!

Lane Bryant has added a bunch of new arrivals to their line and here are four great finds I fell in love with it:

If the spring bug lures you over to Lane Bryant be sure to use this great promotional coupon for 15% off your order: 000159470. The coupon expires April 28, 2009.

Happy (pre) Spring shopping!

A Plus Size Wedding with Igigi

BigGirlBlue — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:02:54 -0800

Plus size evening wear and formal wear designer, Igigi has just unveiled their latest wedding fashions.

The dresses range in price from $185 to $350 and are sized from 12 - 32. Here's a peek:

Learn more about these lovely plus size wedding dresses at Igigi

A Curvy Valentine

BigGirlBlue — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 20:26:58 -0800

If you are looking for something to decorate the curves of your lady or perhaps you're a curvy lady looking to decorate your own curves then you absolutely must stop at Hips and Curves. They have a delicious assortment of plus size lingerie. Here are my top three items for Valentines day:

Daisy Lace Four Way Bra - $28

Satin Jacquard Corset - $68.95

Chinoiserie Baby Doll - $25.95

From now until January 23 they are offering free standard ground shipping on orders of $100. The coupon code is "SHIP100" without the quotations.

Visit Hips and Curves for delightful Valentine's gifts.

Save 15% on Lane Bryant's New Arrivals

BigGirlBlue — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:05:07 -0800

Actually you can receive 15% off your entire online order at Lane Bryant with promotion code 000155922 at checkout. This code expires February 17. If you visit over the next few days you'll also find a few other promotions on.

While visiting Lane Bryant I came across these two great items in their New Arrivals. The first is a double breasted trench coat in tango red. It comes in sizes 14 - 28 for $109.50.

The second is the black patent hobo handbag for $49.50.

Happy New Year!

Stocking Up on Under Things

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 10:38:02 -0800

Are your bras starting to get worn? Not keep the girls in their place? Then it's a perfect time to check out HerRoom's annual gigantic clearance sale. It all begins on December 24th!

Customers will experience up to 80% savings on all top lingerie brands like Chantelle, DKNY, Calvin Klein, Hanky Panky, Cosabella, Wacoal and many more.

While you're there check out one of my favorite fitting bras, the Le Mystere Tisha Bra (at right). This bra was featured on Oprah ages ago. It provides great lift, support and smoothness. I liken it to the "t-shirt bra" because you can wear it without seeing a bunch of lines and ripples. It comes in nude (best choice) or black with sizes 32C - 44H for $68.

The sale ends January 31st but you probably don't want to leave it too long so you get your top sizes and selections.

Visit HerRoom for plus size bras, panties and lingerie.

Red Riding Hood Gets a New Look

BigGirlBlue — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:41:26 -0800

One of my favorite place to buy t-shirts with attitude is from Threadless. They carry a constantly changing palette of designs for a variety of personality. Hot off the press is this design by Kneil Melicano that updates our impression of Little Red Riding Hood.

Guys tees come in sizes xs - 3x and Girls come in sizes xs - 2x. This particular design costs $15. I know! What a bargain. They even have $10 and $5 bins you can route through online.

Visit Threadless for cool tees.