 | Felicity
Plus-Size Expert
Our Plus-Size Fashion Expert Felicity knows that size doesn't matter... fashion is for everybody! So put down that celery stick and get fashionable! |
Felicity the Fabulous Full Figured Fashion Fanatic
10/04/99
Hey Kids!
Living so close to New York City, "the fashion capital of the world," it is hard not to get caught up in the whirlwind of the fashion scene. As a fairly typical northeastern college student, I enjoy my treks into nearby cities to explore the shopping scene. The fact that I like to wear capri pants and tube tops with shrugs may not surprise most. The fact that I am a size 18 may!
For all of you who think that you need to be a size 4 to be in fashion, I'm here to tell you that you are W-R-O-N-G!! Whether you are an 8 or a 28 fashion can be your friend, not your foe. How many times have you plus size gals out there been frustrated in the fitting rooms? Mad in the three-way mirrors? That could be a thing of the past as soon as you know where to start looking.
The actual definition of a "plus size" diva is fuzzy. Some think anyone a size 12 or more and others feel a 16 is the low end of the spectrum. The goal of my column is to let everybody know that you can be fabulous at ANY size. Finding those funky fashions may be a little tougher, as not a whole lot of designers have hipped up to the "hip-pier" clientele. Fear not, though, they ARE out there, but before you go shopping, you have to know what to look for. So, here is my first column piece:
Fashion: It's Not Just For The "Skinnies" Anymore
If you're like me, at some point in your life you have been told that you would look so great in a particular outfit or style if only you a) shed some poundage; b) upped the size by at least 4; or c) broke out the control top pantyhose and girdles. Well girlies, I'm here to tell you that you (yes, you!) can sport fashions like the shrugs and tube tops too! There are just a few things to keep in mind:
FIT: Even though it may take a little more searching, the funky clothes for us are out there. Don't try to wear a small shirt when you know that you're not. There's nothing attractive about looking as though it took Crisco to get into your clothing. If you can find clothing that fits, show off your assets. Be proud of your extra-large status. We just have more personality than can fit into a size 6!
COLOR: This one is really up to you. Darker colors, such as black or navy, are more slimming than their lighter counterparts. Staying away from those new, hot bright colors may not be such a good idea. Put some vibrancy into your wardrobe. Just be careful that you do not over do it. There's no need for your top, bottom and your shoes to glow in the dark. If you're feeling apprehensive, start out with a piece of brighter clothing and work from there.
INDIVIDUALITY: Don't be afraid to start your own trends! So often people think that just because Hawaiian print is in, it's a "must have." Not so! If you find something that is in your groove, work it! A large part of carrying off any style is making it yours. Who wants to look like a CEO in a cowboy outfit??
Most of all remember to enjoy shopping and wearing your clothing creations. Mix it up and find what you like and what looks good on you. Bring along a friend for a totally honest opinion. Shopping for our fuller figures doesn't have to be a fiasco, make it fabulous!!
-Felicity
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