I am officially convinced that the plus-size revolution so many of us have been waiting for is here. Why? Because everywhere I turn, beautiful plus size women, like myself, are finally being given the respect we so rightly deserve.

Don’t believe me? On September 1st, Lane Bryant released its runway inspired Icon Collection to provide high-end, fashion forward pieces to plus size women, something that no other major plus-sized fashion retailer has tried to do with such gusto. Also in September, a naked, sized 14 Lizzie Miller appeared on the pages of Glamour and caused such an incredible flood of positive response from readers (of both the male and female variety) that editors decided to feature seven of the industries best plus sized models in the nude for the November issue out on stands now.

Still not convinced? Then take a look at television media. Shows like More to Love and Drop Dead Diva are taking us beyond the days when plus sized women are used as mere weight loss subjects or sidekicks for our skinny counterparts and towards an era where rubenesque beauties on television are headliners of the show. Ladies and gentlemen, we have arrived.

Where are We Going?

When will the revolution have accomplished its goals? When, like in all revolutions, business as usual is no longer deemed acceptable. When the small shifts in action become major shifts in thought. When showing plus sized women in the nude is not shocking or laudable, but a norm in our society.

The size of the average women has hovered between a size 12 and a size 14 for a very long time, yet we continue to refer to these women as being plus-sized. In my line of thinking, that means everyday at least 50 percent of the women who go shopping for clothes are being made to feel as if there is something abnormal about their size. That is unacceptable.

My idealist nature has a proposition for the fashion industry. Since each woman just desires to be treated as equally important and relevant as the next and plus-size retailers have proven that a strong market exists for women of every size, why not do away with plus size clothing and offer great pieces from size 0 and up in every store. Women who make up plus sizes account for over half of the shopping population, but plus size retailers only account for 16 percent of the fashion market. Not making all fashion available to everyone isn’t just cruel and unnecessary, it’s bad business.

I know some of you are probably thinking that there are benefits to having retailers cater to specific sizes and that doing away with the plus-size industry all together would be horrific. I don’t disagree that there wouldn’t be drawbacks. However, in my soul there exists a burning desire to shop, not just alone while my friends visit other stores and different departments, but also with them at stores that cater to all shapes and sizes.

Applaud the changes. Applaud the progress. Note that this is not our destination. The journey is just beginning. Viva La Revolucion!

Reference: Stylist.com

Image taken from glamour.com

When I think about spring I love the thought of lightweight clothing and flowing fabrics. Although this usually means wearing a lot of dresses, there are several tops out there that have that same gliding movement. This Handkerchief Knit Top, for example, has an interesting shape that moves pleasantly with every step.

While simplistic in pattern, this garment still has some eye-catching features. A rounded collar comes to a gentle point in the center, mirroring the rounded asymmetrical hemline. Normally princess seaming is closer together, but on this top the seamwork is spread wider apart for a more relaxed look. The rounded asymmetrical hem is loose so that the fabric drapes in wide ruffle shapes. Three-quarter length sleeves are just right for warmer springtime weather. Usually longer tops like this are flattering on bottom heavy women; however, that may not be the case here. Since the asymmetrical hem creates a wide arcing shape it could overemphasize the midsection in an unsightly way.

Color choices are limited to only two shades. Periwinkle is a warmer color, but it’s not very vibrant. Nevertheless, it is a serene shade that is relaxing for the season. For those who prefer neutral colors, White is also available.

Pairing this top with wide leg pants, capris, or even a skirt should create a laid-back casual ensemble. While this style may be appropriate for casual work environments, it might look a little out of place at more formal engagements.

Features Of The Above White Handkerchief Knit Top

Period inspired clothing takes you far away from the ordinary. This medieval period inspired Lace-Trim Fit and Flair Dress flows elegantly down the body. Full of culture and grace, this gown is an excellent choice for spring.

A garment straight out of a fantasy novel, this dress is packed with sensual designer elements. Vertical lines create the appearance of height and help make the wearer look slimmer. Princess seaming anchors the center panel of the garment and matches up beautifully with the square neckline. Creating separation between the bust and the lower portion of the dress is an empire seam on the center panel. In the center of the bodice yoke are vertical pintucks that add texture and visual interest. Delicate matching lace trim lines the seamwork for a more layered design. Soft fabric feels lovely against the skin, and the lightweight quality allows the fabric to drape well. Three-quarter length sleeves are slightly bell shaped, which adds casual charm to the piece.

Buyers can choose between three colors. The darkest of the three, Deep Wisteria has a regal nature, but some of the finer lace details may get lost in this darker color. Blue is a tranquil and neutral shade that should match nicely with most hair colors and skin tones. Dusty Pink is a lighter color with muted undertones to decrease the brightness. It’s a friendly springtime shade, but it may not complement every skin tone.

Features Of The Above Full Length Size 14+ Dress

Sprucing up your wardrobe isn’t always the easiest or most budget friendly task. You don’t have to go out and buy an entire closet of new clothes if you already own well-maintained and stylish outfits. All you need are some cost efficient ways to change up your look, and you can do that with simple accessories like this Cascade Cardigan. Changing up your accessories can really transform your look and make it appear as if you’ve gone out and purchased a completely brand-new ensemble.

Updating the traditional cardigan, this garment adds class to almost any outfit. Front and back shoulder yokes soften the shoulders to enhance the cascade effect. Pleated gathers create visual interest, allowing the fabric to drape down the body. The open front feature along with the asymmetrical hemline makes the cardigan look longer. Three-quarter length sleeves are comfortable and casual for springtime weather.

Only two color options are available, and each color offers different possibilities. Black can be worn at both formal and casual occasions. It matches with almost everything, and it has a sense of chic metropolitan style. Since the weather is changing, however, Black may be too dark for daytime wear. Green Olive provides a fun burst of color that can breathe new life into your current wardrobe. This casual color does have yellow undertones, and that may clash with your hair color or skin tone.

Features Of The Above Cascading Open Front Cardigan

Let’s face it — money is still tight, so whatever clothing you buy has to do double, triple, and sometimes quadruple duty to even justify the expense. There are some basic items with extreme versatility, and those are definitely the garments you should invest in to get the most for your money.  Clothes like this Starlet Twill Pencil Skirt might be pricey at $68, but a skirt that can take you from business professional to stunning seductress with just a few accessory changes is certainly worth the price.

Simplicity and sleek design are what makes this skirt a wardrobe necessity. Vertical seams create sensual panels that curve around your contours. Tapering inward toward the knees, the design of the skirt accentuates the female form. Wrapping around the hips, the fabric fits snugly without bunching up. A slight back slit allows for full mobility throughout your busy day.

Dark, rich color options are fairly neutral to complement almost any top. Carbon Black has traditional elegance. For a subtle touch of color, Wink Plum warms up any ensemble with decadent charm. Urban Minx has a retro chic vibe that may not work in all offices, but is sure to be exciting for nights out on the town.

Women of almost any body type should find this skirt flattering. It is definitely more suited to those who already have well-defined hips. That being said, women with really wide hips or a broader back side may find this skirt not so pleasing.

Features Of The Above Tapered Panel Skirt

It’s not that I don’t like my jeans; I just want something with a little more pizzazz — something that makes a statement. These Lori Trouser Jeans are packed with delightful details that seriously update this traditional garment.

Almost all attention is drawn to the waist and hips. Metal buttons shimmer wonderfully for an industrial look with a dash of cutesy charm. The four button-fly closure has a sort of yesteryear feel to it, but is nevertheless uniquely stylish. Complementing the button-fly are two smaller metal buttons on either side. These functional pocket flap closure buttons are slightly less shiny and anchor the look. Vertical seamwork created by the front pockets and pleats also help accentuate the straight lines created by the row of buttons. The wider waistband has a tailored look for a more trouser-like pair of pants.

Moving downward, the upper thigh and mid-knee areas have been embellished with true designer flair. Light sanding has been done to stress the fabric enough to discolor it, but luckily not tear it. A resin/wax finish seals the discoloration without making the fabric stiff. In fact this fabric has a lightweight quality to improve the fit and comfort of the garment.

While these pants are quite attractive, they may not flatter all body types. Also, you really can’t wear longer tops with these pants because you’ll block the most interesting elements. For an investment of $158, covering up these pants would be a big waste of money.

Features Of The Above Size 12+ Jeans At Alight

Even though it’s getting colder outside, many of us spend
most of our time in regulated climates either at work or at home.Sometimes putting on a coat or sweater over a shirt can get too warm, but if you take the layers off you instantly freeze. As a middle ground, why not wear something that is as warm as a coat and as comfortable as a shirt, like this Hooded Sherpa Tunic.

Providing you with the best of both worlds, this tunic has been well-designed to offer both luxurious comfort and casual style.Raglan long sleeves create rounded shoulders and a more comfortable fit in the arms. The long sleeves are hemmed for a simplistic cuff, and the
sleeves can easily be scrunched up out of your way. As with most tunics, the material flows loosely over the body. Some buyers may find this look unshapely, but keep in mind that it was not designed as a formfitting top.An attached hood makes this top ready for cold or wet weather conditions. Finishing off the look is a kangaroo pouch pocket.

Buyers have some colorful options to choose between when purchasing this outfit. Cadet blue and true olive are darker shades, but the colors are still lush and warm. Classic red, dusty berry, and dark turquoise are bright and invigorating. These three colors are definitely fun, but they don’t work for everyone. Light stone works well with most skin tones, but it isn’t the most exciting color choice available.

Features Of The Above Raglan Sleeves Tunic

Springtime might be about lighter colors for daytime wear, but many of us still prefer darker and more sensual shades for when we go out in the evenings. Colors generally associated with autumn and winter, for instance, have a rich and vivacious quality that excites our passions. Garments like this Kenzie Cowl Neck Sweater certainly fall within a livelier category of clothing.

Each color has its own allure. Ravenous Red, close to crimson red, is sultry and seductive. For those who enjoy a burst of color, Rumor Rust dramatically attracts attention. Purple Hipster, a more regal yet still provocative color, creates a luxurious glow. Black Noir is a traditional color that matches practically everything and works for almost any occasion.

Beyond such lavish color options, the elegant design highlights the chic style. Immediately catching the eye is the swooping cowl neckline. This design gently gathers the fabric, emphasizing the curves and contours of the bust. A color coordinating inset modestly covers the skin to maintain the tasteful design. Since the cut of the outfit causes the material to gather in the front of the body, the material hugs the curves of the midsection. For women who have problem areas in the hips and waist, you may want to stay away from Rumor Rust as a color choice.

Such a distinctive top would be a fine addition to any wardrobe, but it is a little costly at $58.

Features Of The Above 28.5″ Long Beautiful Sweater At Kiyonna

Usually when it gets warmer most of us think about wearing shorter skirts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t buy long skirts for the new spring season. Maxi length skirts tend to have excellent flow and can quickly transition from casual to formal wear with just a few changes. This Ginger In Blue skirt, for example, is packed with potential.Although this is a traditional A-line skirt, it has some interesting characteristics that make it stand out for all the right reasons. Soft and supple fabric feels amazingly comfortable against your skin. This multi-blended fabric forms flatteringly around the contours of your midsection and flows elegantly down to almost floor length. Ruffles of fabric sway pleasantly with every movement. The wider waistband can be folded over to adjust the length of the skirt, or worn as is to help create separation between the waist and hips. While the fabric will help smooth out the midsection, this garment is rather formfitting and may not be too flattering on all body types.

Color choice is limited to this brilliant shade of blue. It’s a warm and vibrant hue, but neutral enough as a color to coordinate well with multiple tops. For more formal occasions, wearing the skirt with a plain dark-colored blouse along with some tasteful jewelry should create quite a lovely ensemble. Wearing a more casual top and flats is a nice choice for relaxing get-togethers.

Features Of The Above Full Sweep Skirt