February 7, 2012

After graduating from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville with an undergraduate degree in psychology, Jasmine Carson decided to put her future plans in psychoanalysis aside to pursue a career as a freelance writer. She’s written articles for City View Magazine, Knoxville’s Daily Beacon Newspaper, and College News Magazine.

Struggling for far too long to find well-made, affordable, and trendy clothing for her size 28 frame, Jasmine came to bbsize.com to utilize her passion for writing and fashion wisely and help plus size women everywhere enhance not only their wardrobes but also their lives.

Born in Chicago and raised in Atlanta, she’s finally returned home to the Windy City.

Niecy Nash Weigh: A Worthy Punchline?

Niecy Nash Weigh: A Worthy Punchline?

As a general rule, I am usually supportive of any and all plus size women that desire to embrace their curves. This is even more true when the woman is a popular media figure. But I’m having a difficult time deciding how I feel about current Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) contestant …

Lane Bryant Ad Controversy | FOX And ABC Refuse To Air Lane Bryant Lingerie Commercial

Lane Bryant Ad Controversy | FOX And ABC Refuse To Air Lane Bryant Lingerie Commercial

It seems that when a plus size woman is shown in any type of fashion capacity on a major stage, her appearance is going to garner a certain amount of attention. But I am sure the ad executives who designed a short 25 second spot for Lane Bryant’s new Cacique bra had no …

The Plus Size Revolution: Taking Baby Steps

The Plus Size Revolution: Taking Baby Steps

Ever since plus size model Lizzie Miller graced the pages of Glamour’s November issue, magazines and designers alike have come out in support of plus size women in large numbers. Glamour vowed to feature more plus size models in future issues and in large part they have kept that promise. In February, Canadian designer Mark Fast opted to use …

Viva La Revolucion! Plus Size Takes A Step Forward.

Viva La Revolucion! Plus Size Takes A Step Forward.

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 …

3/4 Sleeves Double Breasted Tunic Sweater | Trendy Torrid’s Big Size Teen’s Outerwear

3/4 Sleeves Double Breasted Tunic Sweater | Trendy Torrid’s Big Size Teen’s Outerwear

Even among all the variety, I feel as though it is becoming more and more difficult to find well made sweaters that offer something new while still giving you the time honored comfort that the silhouette is supposed to provide. But just for you, I’ve used my great detective skills to …

Torrid’s Mid Length Ruffled Corset Dress | Adjustable Straps Laced Teen Wear

Torrid’s Mid Length Ruffled Corset Dress | Adjustable Straps Laced Teen Wear

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, …

Sleeveless Knee Length Women’s Dress | Surplice Neckline Tiered Knit Career Wear

Sleeveless Knee Length Women’s Dress | Surplice Neckline Tiered Knit Career Wear

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 …

Jersey Knit Front Tie Bellini | Large Size Kiyonna’s Stylisy 3/4 Sleeves Cardigan

Jersey Knit Front Tie Bellini | Large Size Kiyonna’s Stylisy 3/4 Sleeves Cardigan

Bellini cardigans are a definite must have for this winter season because they are such a revitalizing breath of fresh air from traditional sweaters and shrugs. They’ve become so popular that I would almost guarantee that a plus size woman could find one in every color if she wanted to. But even perfectly …

Sleeveless Knee Length Black/Purple Dress | Kiyonna’s Mid Length Sheath Career Wear

Sleeveless Knee Length Black/Purple Dress | Kiyonna’s Mid Length Sheath Career Wear

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 …

Sleeveless Knee Length Women’s Dress | Size 1X-3X Banded Bottom Red/Black Career Wear

Sleeveless Knee Length Women’s Dress | Size 1X-3X Banded Bottom Red/Black Career Wear

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 …

Smocked Empire Waist Shirred Neckline Top | 27″ Long Feminine Charmeuse Surplice

Smocked Empire Waist Shirred Neckline Top | 27″ Long Feminine Charmeuse Surplice

After meticulously looking over a variety of different fashion sites, I have a feeling that this year it’s going to be all about The Baby Doll top. It’s beginning to pop up here and there in the magazines again and I am sure before long it will have gotten out of control. But …

Catherines White Cotton Gauze Cover Up | 38″ Long Size Plus Shirttails Topper

Catherines White Cotton Gauze Cover Up | 38″ Long Size Plus Shirttails Topper

Believe it or not, it’s already time to start shopping for swimsuits! I know, I couldn’t believe it either. But after checking out a few of my favorite sites, I’ve noticed that they are already gearing up spring and summer waterplay (something that is a little hard for me to fathom as I …

Mid Length Black Sequin Skirt | Lane Bryant’s 22″ Inseam Women’s Evening Wear

Mid Length Black Sequin Skirt | Lane Bryant’s 22″ Inseam Women’s Evening Wear

The celebration of the New Year may be over but you can keep the party going with the new sequin skirt from Lane Bryant. With a 22 inch inseam it’s a bit short for the winter weather but that’s nothing a long coat or a pair of stockings couldn’t fix.Black shimmering sequins run …

Sleeveless Knee Length Chiffon Dress | Lane Bryant’s Size 14+ Women’s Grey Evening Wear

Sleeveless Knee Length Chiffon Dress | Lane Bryant’s Size 14+ Women’s Grey Evening Wear

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 …

Dolman Sleeve 33″ Length Tunic | Oversized Size 1X-3X Print Top

Dolman Sleeve 33″ Length Tunic | Oversized Size 1X-3X Print Top

When shopping online, it can be hard to find clothes that radiate with a wow factor. It seems that whenever I find the time to actually shop in a store, I can always find amazing clothes that strike me as knockout pieces. Rarely do I see a piece on a print or internet …

Elastic Waistband Knit Stretch Yoga Pants | Avenue’s 30″ Stylish Women’s Black Activewear

Elastic Waistband Knit Stretch Yoga Pants | Avenue’s 30″ Stylish Women’s Black Activewear

I’ve recently started working out again in an effort to drop some weight around my midsection and improve my overall health. My newfound interest in the gym is beginning to do wonders for my body, but my clothes are starting to look worn and raged. My favorite pair of workout pants are a …

Surplice Neckline Empire Waist Maxi | Full Length Size 1X+ Black Dress

Surplice Neckline Empire Waist Maxi | Full Length Size 1X+ Black Dress

Great maxi dresses that have been designed for winter wear are truly hard to come by. I don’t know about you, but the majority of maxis that I have seen are either strapless or thin strapped and made in bright bold colors that would be better suited for summer. Take this fashion trend …

Kiyonna’s Soft Knit Wrap | Tie It, Wrap It Or Belt It For Big Size Women

Kiyonna’s Soft Knit Wrap | Tie It, Wrap It Or Belt It For Big Size Women

In life, fashion, and my own personal closet, versatility means everything. If you can’t roll with the punches and change things up every now and then, what’s the point. The affinity wrap from Kiyonna is designed to help you do just that. This knit wrap is made out of polyester, spandex, and rayon …

Knee Length Open Bust Ponte Dress | Front Button Side Pockets Torrids Teen Denim Wear

Knee Length Open Bust Ponte Dress | Front Button Side Pockets Torrids Teen Denim Wear

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 …

3/4 Sleeves Draped Neckline Tunic | Size 14+ WomanWithin’s 32″ Top w/ Foldover Collar

3/4 Sleeves Draped Neckline Tunic | Size 14+ WomanWithin’s 32″ Top w/ Foldover Collar

The holidays are a wonderful time to try out new and interesting trends in the fashion world. With many people walking around in those crazy printed sweaters that are so reminiscent of the holidays (and grandmother’s undying affection), no one will ever balk at your outfit should you commit a small fashion faux …

Torrid’s Sleeveless Tank w/Laced Hem | Plus Size Heather Grey Teen Wear

Torrid’s Sleeveless Tank w/Laced Hem | Plus Size Heather Grey Teen Wear

It’s no secret that accessorizing can be the key that takes a regular outfit to stellar heights. However, I often find that taking the time to pick out the perfect pieces of jewelry for my outfits can be almost as daunting as finding the right outfit in the first place.

If you’re looking to …

Lane Bryant’s Knee Length Knit Dress | 3/4 Sleeves Women’s Collared Printed Evening Wear

Lane Bryant’s Knee Length Knit Dress  | 3/4 Sleeves Women’s Collared Printed Evening Wear

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 …

Black Velvet Underwire Cups Bustier | Torrid’s Polyester-Spandex Trim Bustier w/ G-String

Black Velvet Underwire Cups Bustier | Torrid’s Polyester-Spandex Trim Bustier w/ G-String

When I look at my wardrobe I notice that I have a real affinity for two things: all things black and lush, sensual colors. My blues are deep midnight blues, my pink are burnt hot pinks, and my purples and reds are of the variety that inspire healthy appetites. So when I set …

Long Sleeve Zip Front Closure Hoodie | Extended Size Red/Purple Women’s Jacket

Long Sleeve Zip Front Closure Hoodie | Extended Size Red/Purple Women’s Jacket

These days the land of graphic tees and thin hoodies can be one with little to get excited about. Take the time to glance at any retailer’s particular selections of these items and you’ll probably feel more underwhelmed than a kid who’s already snuck a peek at his presents on Christmas Day. But …

Mid-Length Pleated Empire Waist Wrap Skirt | Wear It As Halter, Tube Dress Or One Shoulder Dress

Mid-Length Pleated Empire Waist Wrap Skirt | Wear It As Halter, Tube Dress Or One Shoulder Dress

How much would you be willing to pay to get seven outfits from 1 clothing design. $100? $150? or maybe even $200? Well, if you’re looking to score another greatly priced and versatile fashion for your wardrobe, consider the Interchangeable Plus Size Wrap Skirt from Swakdesigns. With options in black, pink, aqua, and …

Short Sleeve Wrap Hologram Sweater | Size 1X-3X Women’s Plaid Chiffon Fall Wear

Short Sleeve Wrap Hologram Sweater | Size 1X-3X Women’s Plaid Chiffon Fall Wear

Distinctive. Authentic. Original. These are words that don’t really seem to come to mind when I’m looking at the clothes designed for plus size women. Yes, I often find some wonderfully creative and impeccably designed pieces, but rarely do I come across anything that offers true novelty.

This one-of-a-kind purple wrap sweater features short …

Sleeveless Mid Length Black Dress | Polyester-Spandex Hanging Sequin Evening Wear

Sleeveless Mid Length Black Dress | Polyester-Spandex Hanging Sequin Evening Wear

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 …

Size 16 Plus Knit Mitered Stripe Halter | Lane Bryant’s Top For Hourglass Women

Size 16 Plus Knit Mitered Stripe Halter | Lane Bryant’s Top For Hourglass Women

The mitered stripe halter top from Lane Bryant is the most discreetly sexy piece of clothing that I have seen in a very long time. The sexy stripe pattern angles down and towards the center of the body creating the visual illusion of a bottom heavy hourglass figure. While that may not be …

Long V-Neckline Double Closure Cardigan | Catherines Size X-5X 36″ Sweater w/ Curved Hem

Long V-Neckline Double Closure Cardigan | Catherines Size X-5X 36″ Sweater w/ Curved Hem

There’s not much in this world that’s quite like pulling on a warm and cozy sweater that’s been made for you by one of the people closest to your heart. But as times wear on, intimate keepsakes wear down and the once cozy and sentimental fashions created by our loved ones cease to …

Bateau Neckline Sleeveless Gathered Top | Size 14+ Lane Bryant’s Casual

Bateau Neckline Sleeveless Gathered Top | Size 14+ Lane Bryant’s Casual

You may find this hard to believe, but I have never had the pleasure (or the misfortune) of shopping with the masses on Black Friday. While I was always aware of the mystical event, I could never bring myself to get excited about waking up at the crack of dawn the day after …

Sleeveless Elastic Waistband 29″ Brown Top | Size 1X-3X Chiffon Women’s Casual Wear

Sleeveless Elastic Waistband 29″ Brown Top | Size 1X-3X Chiffon Women’s Casual Wear

I love the idea of wearing a sexy halter top out clubbing in the middle of winter. Showing skin when most people are trying to cover up is a surefire way to edge out the competition. But the back baring halters we’re so accustomed to seeing during the summer are just not suitable …

Mid Length 3/4 Kimono Sleeves Kiyonna’s Dress | Belted Large Size Womens Evening Wear

Mid Length 3/4 Kimono Sleeves Kiyonna’s Dress | Belted Large Size Womens Evening Wear

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 …

Large Size Short Sleeve Ruffled Dress | Knit Peasant Bodice w/ Knee Length Skirt

Large Size Short Sleeve Ruffled Dress | Knit Peasant Bodice w/ Knee Length Skirt

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 …

Mid Length Belted Sweater Dress | Fashion Bug Size 1X-3X, 40″ Long Fall Wear

Mid Length Belted Sweater Dress | Fashion Bug Size 1X-3X, 40″ Long Fall Wear

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 …

Zip Up Velour Hoodie w/Kangaroo Pockets | Relaxed Fit Banded Drawstring Waist Pant

Zip Up Velour Hoodie w/Kangaroo Pockets | Relaxed Fit Banded Drawstring Waist Pant

I’m currently winning my quest to avoid a traditional 9 to 5 job. What I have been unable to do so well is leave behind the uber formal clothing that accompanies most jobs. After a long night of button downs and bootcut pants, I’m literally aching to get into something more comfortable. Usually, …

Pleated Sleeveless Little Black Dress | Big Girls Knee Length Chiffon Evening Wear

Pleated Sleeveless Little Black Dress | Big Girls Knee Length Chiffon Evening Wear

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 …

Mid Length Empire Waist Pleated Dress | Catherines Size 18+ Women’s Casual Wear

Mid Length Empire Waist Pleated Dress | Catherines Size 18+ Women’s Casual Wear

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 …

Long Black Denim Skirt | Catherines Cotton Women’s Casual Wear

Long Black Denim Skirt | Catherines Cotton Women’s Casual Wear

I’m usually not a fan of the long denim skirt. While minis and pencil skirts in a denim wash can be the perfect bottom for a variety of occasions, I find long denim to be dowdy, unsophisticated, and an overall boring silhouette, especially on plus size women. Leave it to a simple change …

Fashion Bug Stretch Blue/Black Denim Legging | 32″ Long, Size 16W-26W Women’s Leg Wear

Fashion Bug Stretch Blue/Black Denim Legging | 32″ Long, Size 16W-26W Women’s Leg Wear

So I found the perfect pair of boots for winter weather. They’re fully functional, yet trendy and stylish. But now I’m starting to wonder if the pants that I own are worthy of their newfound compatriots. I was determine to try out a few different pairs of black leggings since they are one …

Knee Length Ponte Knit Dress | Lane Bryant’s Sleeveless Size 14+ Evening Wear

Knee Length Ponte Knit Dress | Lane Bryant’s Sleeveless Size 14+ Evening Wear

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 …

Rubber Sole Wide Calf Winter Women Boots | Full Inside Zip Medium/Wide Comfortview Shoes

Rubber Sole Wide Calf Winter Women Boots | Full Inside Zip Medium/Wide Comfortview Shoes

Just having moved to the Windy City, my wardrobe still lacks in the appropriate pieces for cold, wet, and snowy weather. As I get more comfortable in my surroundings, that changes everyday. I’m still on the lookout for cool and comfortable pairs of boots, but as it gets colder and the weather fluctuates, …

Mid Length Empire Waist Evening Dress | Short Sleeve Pleated Size 1X-6X Women’s Casual Wear

Mid Length Empire Waist Evening Dress | Short Sleeve Pleated Size 1X-6X Women’s Casual Wear

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 …

Removable Halter Straps Red Silk Corset | Steel Paneling Garter Loop Curvy Gal’s Waist Cincher

Removable Halter Straps Red Silk Corset | Steel Paneling Garter Loop Curvy Gal’s Waist Cincher

I am absolutely, head over heels in love with the movie Moulin Rouge. The first time I saw it I was in such a state of amazement, that I couldn’t even react properly to all the scenes. The second time around, I laughed, cried, and felt an overwhelming since of happiness when it …

Long Kimono Sleeves Scoop Neck Drawstring Waist Top | Lane Bryant’s Green Or Black Jersey Knit Casual Wear

Long Kimono Sleeves Scoop Neck Drawstring Waist Top | Lane Bryant’s Green Or Black Jersey Knit Casual Wear

We’ve seen turtlenecks. We’ve seen mock turtlenecks. Now there are relaxed turtlenecks. I know what you’re thinking: a relaxed turtleneck can’t really be a turtleneck can it? A quick look at this green jersey knit from Lane Bryant’s Icon Collection tells the real story.

Deep, wrist length kimono sleeves provide a loose and free …

Knee Length V-Neck Elbow Length Sleeves Cinched Waist Dress | Kiyonna Waist Tie Belt Colorblocking Women’s Casual Wear

Knee Length V-Neck Elbow Length Sleeves Cinched Waist Dress | Kiyonna Waist Tie Belt Colorblocking Women’s Casual Wear

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 …

Empire Waist Knee Length Tie Back Dress | Smocked Inset Lined Skirt Lane Bryant’s Women’s Casual Wear

Empire Waist Knee Length Tie Back Dress | Smocked Inset Lined Skirt Lane Bryant’s Women’s Casual Wear

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 …

Knee length Belted Black Wool Fully Lined Trench Coat | Pointed Collar Detachable Hood Front Button Closure 38″ Long Rain Coat

Knee length Belted Black Wool Fully Lined Trench Coat | Pointed Collar Detachable Hood Front Button Closure 38″ Long Rain Coat

Plus size women are as varied in shape as they are in attitude.Some are short, others are tall. Some of us are small busted, while others have a bosom so ample that it requires, and sometimes demands, extra attention. One of the most difficult challenges to dressing a plus size women happens to …

Long Brocaded Denim Pencil Skirt | Avenue’s Side Slash Pocket Back Zip Curvy Women’s Dress (14W-24W)

Long Brocaded Denim Pencil Skirt | Avenue’s Side Slash Pocket Back Zip Curvy Women’s Dress (14W-24W)

You should never wear white after Labor Day. This is one of the many fashion myths that have been perpetuated over time by some sort of secret and crazy logic. Rules were meant to be broken and what better rule to break than an outdated fashion one. I personally do not know where, …

Fringed Edge White Lavish Acrylic Wrap | 118″ Long, 58″ Wide Stylish Classy Women’s Casual Wear

Fringed Edge White Lavish Acrylic Wrap | 118″ Long, 58″ Wide Stylish Classy Women’s Casual Wear

All stylish women should take the time and spend the money to add belts, shawls, scarves, and pashminas to their closets. These simple accessories are a great way to quickly revamp any outfit in your wardrobe as opposed to going out and buying a whole new one. Let’s use a basic black turtleneck …

Black A-Line Knee Length Belted Trench Coat | Fully Lined Front Zipper Stylish Trendy Size 1X-2X Women’s Raincoat

Black A-Line Knee Length Belted Trench Coat | Fully Lined Front Zipper Stylish Trendy Size 1X-2X Women’s Raincoat

As we get further into October, it’s going to get colder and wetter outside. You’re going to need a jacket anyway, but don’t settle for something boring when you can have a designer jacket full of flare. This “Angelina” Zipper Detail Trench Coat will definitely make a bold statement this season.

Updating the traditional …

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