Plus Size Fashion | Dresses
Dresses come in styles for every single possible occasion. Although dresses have a formal, feminine flair to them, there are plenty of options for day wear. A shirt dress has a bodice like a tailored shirt, but extends to be dress-length. A sheath dress is fitted, often sleeveless, with no seaming at the waistline. A shift dress has straight lines, with no waist shaping or seaming.
A great summer option is the sundress, which is informal, sleeveless, and made of lightweight fabric. Another casual option is the tent dress, which flares out from the waist for an easy-to-wear style.
For layering in both the summer and the winter, a jumper is a great option, is intended to be worn with a blouse underneath.
The maxi dress, with an empire waist and full-length skirt, is a great style to make you look taller, and to layer with
jackets and
cardigans to transition into colder seasons.
A wrap dress is probably the most versatile dress option. Hugging the bodice, cinching the waist, and then flaring out from the hips ensures that it accentuates your form in all the right ways. In evening wear, the categories of cocktail dresses and evening gowns cover any number of looks, although cocktail dresses tend to be short while evenings gowns are full-length. Another fun option is a tea gown, which is frothy with layers and usually ankle-length for semi-formal occasions. The ultimate dress option is the LBD- the little black dress. Consider it the secret weapon in your arsenal.
The main thing to remember when picking a dress is pick something appropriate for the occasion, and find the cuts that focus on your best features (while still allowing for some fun and freedom). Never be afraid to try a new look; this is a lady’s prerogative.
Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010
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 …
Posted in Blue, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Pink, Wisteria, WomanWithin | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
Bohemian style dresses have a sultry sense of style I find difficult to resist. Both the cut and intricate details are pleasing to the eye. This chic Role Play Dress will flatter almost any body type and attract some positive attention.
Woven details create the appearance of a slimmer body. Playing contrasting colors against …
Posted in Alight, Black, Dresses, L. Rigdon, White | No Comments »
Tuesday, February 16th, 2010
Universities and colleges all over the nation are getting ready to start their spring semesters. Making a strong first impression is vital at school and in the business world, so why not start things off with a stylish new outfit. This Teal Argyle Dress has a professional edge with a touch of attitude.
Updating …
Posted in Alight, Brown, Dresses, Grey, L. Rigdon, Teal | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 10th, 2010
Dressing up can be a ton of fun when it’s time to go out with the girls for a night on the town. But all too often I find myself playing it a little to safe with my choices of attire. If you’re like me and thinking about spicing things up a bit, …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Red, Teens Apparel, Torrid | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 10th, 2010
I am all for bringing sexy back this year. Most of that goal has nothing to do with the clothes that I wear and everything to do with taking better care of myself. Whether it’s turning down opportunities to do extra tasks at work to get ahead, or taking time out of my …
Posted in Dresses, Fashion Bug, Jasmine Carson, Purple, Red | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 10th, 2010
With all this cold, wet, and depressingly gray weather, I for one am desperately yearning for sunny skies and warm breezes. In the springtime I love to wear soft, flowing dresses. Outfits like this Broomstick Sundress put me in the mood to play in the grass and have a relaxing spring picnic.
The oversized …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Maxi, Multi, Print | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, February 9th, 2010
Whenever I’m looking for formal gowns I feel like I’m in a fairy tale. Although I don’t have the help of fairy godmothers or talking mice, the goal is still the same — I want to be the prettiest woman in the room. Wearing a gown like this one, called Wendy’s Dream, is …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Emerald, Garnet, L. Rigdon, Sydney's Closet, Topaz | No Comments »
Monday, February 8th, 2010
I have to say — there’s something about taffeta that makes women feel like royalty. It’s a regal textile that has just the right amount of shimmer and class. Combine taffeta with sensual design, and you’ve got a dress that will “Sizzle.”
Hugging around your curves, this fit and flare gown wraps your body …
Posted in Dresses, L. Rigdon, Papaya, Red, Sydney's Closet | No Comments »
Monday, February 8th, 2010
Sometimes we want to dress up as glitzy and glamorous as possible. Getting ready for prom or any big event is the perfect time to go all-out when it comes to finding that perfect dress. In today’s age of mass media, being glamorous means looking like a Hollywood starlet, and this shimmering silver …
Posted in Dresses, L. Rigdon, Silver, Sydney's Closet | 3 Comments »
Sunday, February 7th, 2010
Some women stop shows. Other women don’t. It’s as simple as that. If you would like to be a part of the legions of women who are known for always looking phenomenal from head to toe then come on over to the dark side by sporting the new Signature Satin Sheath Dress from …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Kiyonna, Purple | 1 Comment »
Sunday, February 7th, 2010
I recently purchased a set of uber pricey shapewear pieces from Spanx. I was told that if I wanted to get rid of unsightly rolls and smooth out my overall appearance, that Spanx was the way to go. Well, I can’t remember who gave me that piece of advice, but I sure am …
Posted in Apple Bottoms, Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Red | No Comments »
Saturday, February 6th, 2010
It bothers me that when I’m out looking for a totally sexy and happening dress I’m forced to accept that my dress can either be gorgeous or low maintenance, but never both. Whoever said that sacrifices are worth it for beauty must have never had a full-time job, family, and a full social …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Red | 4 Comments »
Friday, February 5th, 2010
I love the feeling of a long, flowing dress. The way the fabric moves and sways with every step is both regal and seductive. My fascination with these types of dresses is probably why I am so drawn to this Box-Pleated Dress from the Chelsea Studio® collection.
Box style pleats, along with an empire …
Posted in Blue, Boysenberry, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Maxi, Slate, WomanWithin | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010
Not all winter dresses have to be ankle length. Sure, you might get a little chilly with a shorter dress, but that’s what jackets are for. A sexy yet professional dress, like this Three Quarters Sleeve Ponte Knit Dress, can make you feel confident and ready to conquer the day’s challenges.
With a versatile …
Posted in Black, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Pewter, Teal, Wisteria, WomanWithin | No Comments »
Friday, January 29th, 2010
Make a Statement — a fitting name for an evening gown this lush. Whether at a school dance or another formal engagement, women of all ages want their outfit to be the most stunning ensemble in the room. You will definitely make heads turn as you strut your stuff in this delicious designer …
Posted in Blue, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Midnight, Sydney's Closet | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, January 27th, 2010
Don’t let this cold and stormy weather fool you into thinking spring will never get here. When welcoming in the new season, I like to dress the part with colorful and cheery outfits. This Button Accent Dress, for example, is a bright and fresh addition to your spring wardrobe.
Maybe it’s the oversized buttons, …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Lime, Teal, White | No Comments »
Sunday, January 10th, 2010
I don’t know about you, but anytime I go shopping these days I seem to always stumble upon outfits that I want to label a “First Lady Outfit”. It’s no secret that Michelle Obama has great style, but it’s been reported on so much that I feel like if someone asked me to …
Posted in Dresses, Grey, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant | 1 Comment »
Saturday, December 19th, 2009
It’s no secret that I thoroughly enjoy getting dressed in costume getups when I’m headed out for a night on the town. However, not everyone is as comfortable with putting on a pigtailed wig and a pair of stripped socks and walking out of the house as Pippy Longstocking. If you want to …
Posted in Dresses, Grey, Jasmine Carson, Torrid | 1 Comment »
Thursday, December 17th, 2009
When we choose our clothes, we also choose an image that we want to portray. Some days we need to look business professional, and other days shabby chic is just the thing. Many of us just want to look friendly and approachable, and wearing an outfit like this Pintucked Dress will convey that …
Posted in Chambray, Dresses, Guava Twill, Khaki, L. Rigdon, Stonewash, WomanWithin | No Comments »
Saturday, December 12th, 2009
Designers tend to become inspired by clothing from different eras. This lovely Crepe Knit Dress, for instance, looks like it came out of the world of Jane Austen and historical romance.Although updated for a modern-day design, influences from the late 18th century style are plain to see. An empire waist directs the attention …
Posted in Black, Blue, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Wine, WomanWithin | 1 Comment »
Friday, December 11th, 2009
Winter time brings along with it cold weather, warm sweaters, and a more muted color palette that at times can become very boring. After you’ve worn all the black, browns, and reds you can stomach, what’s a girl to do? Try mixing some of the tried and true colors of winter with bright …
Posted in Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant, Navy, Print | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 9th, 2009
Reinventing old ideas is an ongoing trend, and dress styles from the 1960s and 70s are currently in vogue. This Only Necessities® Embroidered Dress is a stylishly retro choice for the season.A few select embellishments have been chosen to really make this outfit stand out. Most noticeable is the floral embroidery creating a …
Posted in Claret, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Navy, Olive, WomanWithin | 1 Comment »
Monday, December 7th, 2009
Looking for some holiday sparkle? Try this Dazzling Ellos® Crochet Trimmed Sweater-Knit Dress.
This dress looks like glittery star dust has been woven into the fabric. Although you might be thinking that shiny fabric is a bad thing for curvaceous women, realize that there’s a major difference between shiny and glittery. Shiny means the …
Posted in Black, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Slate, Sweaters And Cardigans, Wine, WomanWithin | 1 Comment »
Sunday, December 6th, 2009
I love All Hallows Eve, otherwise known as Halloween. Halloween gives every woman the opportunity to dress up as someone other than herself and, if she wants to, create a temporary alter ego for the evening. Unfortunately, it only happens once a year. But just because others are not willing to step out …
Posted in Alight, Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson | 1 Comment »
Saturday, December 5th, 2009
It’s wintertime, so one of the hottest fabrics for semi-formal occasions is velour. It’s velvety soft, elegantly luminous, and it’s a fabulous textile for tops and dresses. This Pintuck Velour Dress will be a wonderful addition to your holiday wardrobe.
This dress seems to have been influenced by the 1960s and 70s. Rounded shoulders, …
Posted in Chocolate, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Teal, Wine, WomanWithin | No Comments »
Thursday, November 26th, 2009
Cocktail parties are one of the many centerpiece events at the holidays. There’s nothing quite like getting all dolled up to have a semi-formal evening out with some of the people you love. While most individuals take immense pleasure in the actual outing, I like to make getting ready a whole event. Whether …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Garnet, Jasmine Carson, Kiyonna, Purple | No Comments »
Saturday, November 21st, 2009
I have to admit that I love getting up and getting dressed for work. Well - not everyday. But most of the time it is an interestingly fascinating endeavor that allows me to come up with new and creative ways to breathe life to a sometimes dull experience. Don’t get me wrong, there …
Posted in Alight, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Red | No Comments »
Saturday, November 21st, 2009
It’s no secrets that one of the sexiest things a women can wear is a plain and simple men’s button down shirt. Let’s be real: it doesn’t even really have to be a men’s button down. I know that when I come home at the end of a long day and step out …
Posted in Burgundy, Dresses, Fashion Bug, Grey, Jasmine Carson, Sweaters And Cardigans | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, November 11th, 2009
One of the major fashion trends that has been on the horizon for a little while now is the loose and flowing tent dress. Blame it on the need to hide belly bumps in Hollywood or the boho-chic craze that just seems like it won’t go away, but this fashion forward and thought …
Posted in Black, Catherines, Dresses, Jasmine Carson | 2 Comments »
Wednesday, November 11th, 2009
Looking to ditch the little black dress and replace it with a fun and flirty outfit suitable for any cocktail party? I guarantee the shimmer dot Emma dress will drop years of your attitude if it doesn’t drop years off your look. The thin strapped party dress has a school dance …
Posted in Catherines, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Purple | No Comments »
Friday, November 6th, 2009
One of the biggest trends making waves in fashion right now is this quiet little storm known as Michelle Obama. It seems that no one can get enough of her effortless fashion sense that moves from pricey couture to bargain steals as quickly as the public moves from hating one political party to …
Posted in Dresses, Green, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009
Certain fabrics are the epitome of luxury, such as silk
chiffon. Combined with trendy patterns and a chic color scheme –voilá– an elegant and
eclectic ensemble. This “Naomi” Silk Chiffon Fantasy Gown will make you feel like royalty at any social engagement.
Rich shades of purple and burgundy blend together in an animal print. A mix …
Posted in Dresses, L. Rigdon, Monif C, Print, Purple | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009
These days there are hundreds of different ways for plus size women of all shapes and sizes to minimize their flaws and maximize their attributes. Though still way behind where it needs to be, the industry is no longer the land of oversized dresses and drab colors. It’s because of this that I …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Raspberry, Teal | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, November 4th, 2009
Lace isn’t just for doilies and lingerie. With the right choice of layers, lace can be an excellent embellishment on any outfit. This Lace Dress, for example, shows off how attractive lace can be this season.
Careful attention to details makes this dress a lovely choice for parties and formal events. An inset empire …
Posted in Black, Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Red, Teal | No Comments »
Monday, November 2nd, 2009
I’ve always enjoyed the pieces made by plus size clothing company Kiyonna. Some are quick to criticize the designs because the retailers use the same basic sihouettes and styles at an almost excessive level of redundancy. I subscribe to the school that says if it ain’t broke, then don’t fix it. This old …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Ivory, Jasmine Carson, Kiyonna, Navy, Purple | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 28th, 2009
If you want to buy high-end clothes, its best to invest your money in clothing that is multifaceted. For instance, this “Marilyn” Convertible Dress, created by Monif C., is made of top quality fabric and can be wrapped around your body to produce at least 22 different dress styles.
Claiming to be “the first …
Posted in Black, Cobalt, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Monif C, Olive, Purple, Red | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
When was the last time you frolicked? I mean actively tried have an evening filled with merrymaking and gaiety. When most of us plan to attend an event worthy of a cocktail dress, we can often take things so seriously making sure that everything from our hair to our shoes is polished and …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant, Print | No Comments »
Sunday, October 25th, 2009
Jumpers have been cute since they first became a regular part of the average child’s wardrobe. However most people don’t think they translate well to the adult frame. I beg to differ. What was once an adorable and charming way to dress a kid, is now a delightful way to diversify an adult …
Posted in Chocolate, Claret, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Jumpers, Olive, WomanWithin | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 21st, 2009
There are so many clothing items advertised as versatile in the fashion industry that sometimes it’s hard to know if the title really applies. Not everything can really go from day to night as easily as some ad executives might want you to believe. On the other hand, this satin trimmed shirtdress is …
Posted in Avenue, Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Purple, Teal | No Comments »
Friday, October 16th, 2009
If you’re looking for an outfit that screams dangerous vixen, look no further. This leather mini-dress will get your heart pumping with excitement.Sensual design is a key element for this outfit. As a strapless dress, feel free to show off those shoulders. Princess seaming creates a formfitting look that hugs your curves. Molded …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Hips And Curves, L. Rigdon, Leather Wear | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
If you live long enough you learn that things are not always as they seem. This life is filled with conundrums, double-edges swords, and enigmas. Sometimes these mysteries don’t turn out so well. The verdict is still out in the case of this two-fer sweater knit dress.
What appears to be a simple …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant, Sweaters And Cardigans | 2 Comments »
Saturday, October 10th, 2009
Sometimes I just want a dress that’s fancy with plenty of delicate touches. At the same time, however, I don’t want something that’s over-the-top formal. This Floral Border Dress has all the charm of a regal gown without the pomp and circumstance.
A combination of layered fabric and texture gives this dress its enchanting …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Multi | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
When classic gets revamped with a contemporary twist is where my personal style lies. Yes, I do like to make statements with my clothing. But, I also believe in wearing simple and classic pieces that feature time-honored silhouettes.
The piece I covet the most at the moment: Lane Bryant’s beaded neck …
Posted in Dresses, Grey, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant | No Comments »
Saturday, October 3rd, 2009
September’s almost over. That means holiday parties are going to be hitting you at full blast until New Year’s Eve. Instead of waiting until the last minute to find a party dress, save yourself some anxiety and find yourself a fun and stunning outfit today, like this Paisley Twist Front Dress
Although a simple …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Print | No Comments »
Tuesday, September 29th, 2009
All the summer dresses in my closet are cute, but they’re not right for fall. With colder weather coming I need longer sleeves and richer colors. For these reasons, this Smocked Border Print Dress is an excellent addition to your fall wardrobe.
The cut of this dress accentuates all of the feminine curves. Focusing …
Posted in Aubergine, Black, Dresses, Just My Size, L. Rigdon, Ruby Stone | 1 Comment »
Monday, September 28th, 2009
During fall and winter many women choose dresses that lack color and style. I say that you should have color and flair all year round, which is why I love the look and feel of this dramatic duster and dress.
Getting away from the traditional muted earth tones of fall, this outfit has rich …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Print | No Comments »
Sunday, September 27th, 2009
Little Black Dresses. Why are they so powerful? Why do I feel the need to introduce you to another one? Not just because they’re classics, but because little black dresses make powerful statements. For me, each and every one that hangs in my closet tells a story about a specific era …
Posted in Black, Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Teens Apparel, Torrid | No Comments »
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
I love the flow and feel of wearing a long skirt. Spinning around and making the skirt swirl brings me back to my childhood. As an adult I often find it difficult to choose a skirt because I feel obligated to find something that will go with several tops and blouses I …
Posted in Casual Living, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Print, Skirts | No Comments »
Saturday, August 29th, 2009
Fall fashion on a budget means buying outfits that serve double duty. On one hand you need to look professional in the office, but you also need something that is chic for a night out on the town. This stylish abstract print knit dress fits your budget and your demanding lifestyle.
Rich chocolate brown, …
Posted in Catherines, Dresses, L. Rigdon, Print | 1 Comment »
Friday, August 28th, 2009
Empire waist designs are everywhere these days. On dresses and tops, cut low or high, it seems like people just can’t get enough of the waist flattering silhouette that dates back to the 1800s. But because of their popularity (and the number of pieces with the feature in my closet) I try to …
Posted in Dresses, Jasmine Carson, Lane Bryant, Print | 3 Comments »