Plus Size
Too Fat to Be a Plus Size Model?
This photo has been causing quite stir in the magazine industry. The photo is of plus size model Lizzie Miller- whose size 12/14 body pushes her to the upper limit of the size when it comes to being a “plus size model”.
I was just in Hollywood, where the fascination with plus size is borderline obsessive (think of all the plus size shows on television- From “Biggest Loser” to “More to Love” to “Ruby”) and the belief, even when presented with evidence to the contrary (all of those shows are extremely popular and covers of Essence Magazine with comedian/actress Mo’ Nque are often bestsellers), is that people really don’t want to see “normal” sized women in magazines or television. The strange thing is that often the editors/producers saying this are plus size women themselves (big myth dispelled: a majority of people in Hollywood ARE NOT thin).
Are these “tastemakers” right? Or is this belief perpetuated by self-hatred?
The Shrinking Plus-Size Apparel Market
What: To no one’s surprise, apparel sales have been going down over the past year - but the plus-size market has been hit especially hard. This is a bit counter-intuitive, as the number of plus-size women in America (and the world) is actually increasing. So, how could this be? Well, there are a few possibilities - full sized fashionistas aren’t always as open to buying clothes that’s marketed as plus-size. Some prefer (or are forced) to shop online - in privacy - for such items.
What They Say:
According to the NPD Group, a market research company, the overall women’s apparel business is down about 5 percent and plus-size is down almost 10 percent from the 12 months ending in May 2009 compared to the same time the year before.
What We Say: We’re not sure what the latest trends are, but if department stores ignore the plus-size customer, they’re ignoring a significant chunk of the population. We don’t predict the plus-size market will disappear, but that it might be introduced to shoppers in a different way in the near future (ie Old Navy’s move to put their plus size section online-only)
If you’re a plus-size fashionista, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this…
Plus-Size Styles Coming to Target
What: Target’s hopping on board the latest trend, stylish clothing for plus-size gals, with a new line from LA-based Pure Energy. We’re not sure why it’s taken so long for designers and retailers to appeal to the majority of female shoppers out there - most of us aren’t pencil thin - but Target’s new line is a sign of things to come for sure. This April, bigger women can look forward to Pure Energy tops, bottoms, dresses, and denim, designed just for them, at Target stores (and online). These items will be cheap, too, ranging from $16.99 to $29.99.
What They Say:
“The Pure Energy collection features brightly colored, dip-dye and burnout tank tops, flowing floral skirts and maxi-style dresses, sophisticated nightlife pieces and a variety of in-style denim including skirts, capris and jeans.”
What We Say: We think this step makes a lot of sense for Target; plus-size women care just as much about style as petite women and this fact has been neglected by the retail industry for years. However, we’re not 100% sold on the new line, which includes tops with very thin, nearly see-through material, and white white shorts. We don’t guess that will be very flattering, but once the line launches later this spring and we can try it on in the dressing room, we’ll have a better idea.
Plus Size Bra BOGO at Lane Bryant
The Deal: Plus-size bras—buy 1, select 1 for half off at Lane Bryant
The Lowdown: Think the words “plus size bras” translate only to something as feminine and sexy as an ace bandage? Yeah, that’s the case too often, but Lane Bryant has become a plus size stand-by because they understand that curvy girls are, um, girls too. Duh.
Right now, go BOGO on plus size bras and get half off on the second bra. And yes, Valentine’s Day may be over, but that doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to basic white—we love this Eyelash Lace Balconette Bra, $40 and this Contrast Underwire Plunge Bra
, $32. Of course, if full-coverage and/or simple neutrals are what you need, they’ve got those covered too.
Shop: Lane Bryant
25-50% Off Lingerie at Torrid.com
The Deal: Take 25-50% off select lingerie at Torrid.com
The Lowdown: There’s nothing wrong with wanting something a little fun and sexy in your lingerie drawer (all those body shapers and cotton bikini panties are just so serious), especially with Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Lingerie sales are all over the place at the moment, of course, but we’re targeting this one from Torrid.com because plus size lingerie can be super limited in selection and way too expensive to begin with.
Make no mistake, the pieces you’ll find available here are NOT Victoria’s Secret-caliber (think more Fredrick’s of Hollywood), but there’s nothing wrong with that. Picking up something fun, sexy, and in your size, on sale, is so not a sin. Our guilt-free picks: nothing says frivolous fun like a funky bustier, like this Jezebel Cleo Pink and Black Bustier, $43.50 or this Black Mesh and Leopard Bustier
, $25.50.
Shop: Torrid.com
Plus Size Bra and Panty Sale at Old Navy
“THIS SALE HAS ENDED”
The Deal: The $15 plus size bra and panty sale at Old Navy
The Lowdown: Old Navy isn’t usually the first place we look for undergarments (or second for that matter), but it turns out they not only have a lingerie collection (comprised of both typically Old Navy-esque wholesome basics and some more feminine pieces) but they carry bras in sizes up to 46DDD.
We can’t stress enough the necessity of a seamless t-shirt bra in every woman’s undergarment wardrobe, and so for $15 this might be time for plus size girls to pick up this versatile full-coverage version, starting in size 40C . Panties are also on sale, with three pairs for $15; we all know how hard it can be to find plus size panties that are actually pretty, but Old Navy’s got your back—these plus stretch lace bikinis come in sizes up to 4X.
Shop: OldNavy.com
Depressionista: Economic Challenges Lead to the (re) Emergence of Old Trends
Wigs: Why are wigs going to make a comeback? Well.. regardless of your ethnic background, getting your hair done is expensive- in most cities a cut starts at $20, relaxers and blow outs at $40, and weavers and braids $100 and up. Women are already starting to cut back on beauty services and opting for at-home-beauty-products. Wigs offer an easy, cost effective alternative to frequent trips to the beauty salon and, unlike coloring your own hair, requires little to no hair care skills. Plus top celebrities like Tyra Banks, Oprah Winfrey, Gwen Stefani and Jessica Simpson have been wearing lace front wigs, for years.
Plus Size Fashion: According to Women Wear Daily, plus size is one of just a handful of market segments that offers growth for the retail industry, which makes sense, as a poor diet often correlates to those with a low to middle economic status. In addition, many people will turn to comfort food as they look for ways to cope with financial and personal challenges.
Even “thin friendly” segments of the fashion industry are embracing the trend. Anna Wintour, Editor in Chief of American Vogue, recently praised the red carpet fashion of plus size grammy winner Adele, leading many to believe that a full figured model could make an appearance on the cover of Vogue this year. And the final hint that plus size is a major trend? Forever 21 is launching a plus size line this spring.
Garage Sales: While online auction sites, like eBay and Bonanzle, continue to thrive, so do old school garage sales. There’s been an increase in the number of weekend merchants, who often partner with their neighbors for community-wide sales and skip newspaper advertisement for free services like craigslist.
In New York, where space is limited, some women are talking it a step further, opening up their own closets to shoppers (Wall Street Journal). While clothing swaps continue to be a hot (for tips on how to hold a clothing swap, pick up a copy of my book “How to be Budget”).
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Update on a few of the predictions featured in January’s Lessons from the Sales Rack
- Prediction: Michelle Obama will redefine fashion and the role of African American women (and moms) in fashion and in the media. Within the last month, the first lady has appeared on the covers of People, Vogue (only the 4th black woman and 2nd first lady in history) and is the first person to share a cover with Oprah Winfrey on April’s O magazine.
- Wal-Mart will be the top store to watch as it will be the only store to successful address the challenges facing middle (and coastal) American families. According to Business Week, Wal-Mart posted a 5.1% increase in same-store sales, for February, while Target fell 4.1%. Furthermore, the publication notes that “same-store sales tallys by the International Council of Shopping Centers and Goldman Sachs was down 0.1 percent for February; excluding Wal-Mart, it fell 4.3 percent.” Anecdotally we’ve noticed quite a few Zipcars in the parking lot of the Secaucus, NJ Wal-Mart.
Save up to $15 on Your Order at Avenue.com with Code
The Deal: Save up to $15 on your order at Avenue.com
The Lowdown: You might think that Lane Bryant is your only option for work-ready plus size fashion—and with the way plus size is marganilized by retailers in general, it’s easy to see why. But there are a few other options, including Avenue.com: not everything is earth-shatteringly stylish, but it’s definitely one of the few places we’ve found where you can actually find modern looking, office appropriate separates without the plus size sticker shock (the leopard print trench shown, for example, is $69.95)
And, if you happen to be doing some last minute holiday shopping here, not only can you take $10 off orders of $60 or more, or $15 off orders of $85 or more, but you can also check into a free express shipping upgrade, to get it by Dec. 24 . . .
Shop: Avenue.com
Save Up to 75% On Old Navy Plus Size!
The Deal: Save up to 75% on select Old Navy Plus Size clothing, sizes 16-30 (online only)
The Lowdown: Let’s just say we weren’t very happy when Old Navy’s decided to make it’s plus size section available only online (link to the post). We’re still not very happy, but offering our readers up to 75% is a good start on the path to forgiveness.
Getting ready for New Year’s Eve? If you’re not, you probably should be—it’s only a couple weeks away—and Old Navy is one of the few sources for really cute party-appropriate plus size dresses (http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com/archive/plus-size-holiday-outfit-for-under-55-the-budget-fashionistas-economic-surv/) that’s not completely overpriced.
The twisted sash empire dress here is on sale now for just $13.99 (seriously!), and the embellished faux gem dresses
(in black, and “dove”) are also on sale for well, just $13.99.
And it’s not just party dresses; there’s a limited but nice selection of sweaters and work-appropriate tops and skirts, most of which fall under $20.
Shop: Old Navy
HoliDAILY Contest #2: Win A Pair of Plus Size Spanx High Footless Tights in Size E
From now until Dec. 31st, Kathryn and the gang at TBF will be giving away daily prizes to lucky TBF winners. Check back everyday at 9am to enter.
At midnight, one lucky TBF reader will win this prize, from Spanx
The Prize: Spanx High Falutin Footless Tights in size E (195-235 lbs)
Why you want this: We could all use a little “packaging” from time to time and there’s perhaps no better “packager” than Spanx. So we’re giving away a pair of footless tights, that smooth you from “girls to gams” (aka from bust to calfs) in size E. Please note that this is a giveaway for our plus size sistas (although plus size fashionistas are NOT the only ones who rock Spanx . . . yes, we’re talking about you Gwyneth Paltrow).
To Enter this Contest, Tell Us Your Top Undergarment Secret in the Comment Section Below
The Rules- no purchase necessary
- contest ends the day of the posting at 11:59pm
- must comment below in order to enter this contest
- must be a US citizen.
- recipient is responsible for any federal, state or local taxes associated with the prize package
- must respond within 72 hours (3 days) or prize will be given to another entrant
Yesterday’s Winner
Congratulations jesims on winning the Fruity Foam Bath Set!
Plus Size Sales at Torrid.com
The Deal: Big savings on plus size sale items at Torrid.com
The Lowdown: As most curvy girls know, plus size fashion can be pricey, and that’s why we like Torrid.com—it’s our go-to destination for trendy plus size pieces that don’t cost a fortune, especially when you hit a great sale, like this Grey Banded V-Neck Tank, on sale for $18.98. And it’s not just clothing items—there are lots of sale priced accessories and shoes to chose from too, like these Black Butter Satin Pleat Flats, on sale for $19.98.
Shop: Torrid.com
News Alert: Ashley Judd for Goody’s
What: Ashley Judd has already launched a line of clothing for Goody’s, but come August, 150 of the 286 Goody’s stores will carry “Ashley Judd Plus” for plus-sized women, according to WWD. The pieces cost only $28 to $58 and they range from blouses, knits, skirts, blazers and trousers.
What We Say: We applaud Ashley Judd for recognizing the need for more clothing lines designed for plus-sized women. Goody’s is yet another retailer in financial trouble (like Steve & Barry’s) and hopefully Ashley Judd’s clothing line will resuscitate it. Plus, part of each sale goes to Goody’s Good Deeds for Good Schools, which awards grants to local schools.
What do you think of Ashley Judd’s expanded clothing line? Do you shop at Goody’s?
Image from WWD
25% off at Lane Bryant
What: Save 25% off your order of $100 at Lane Bryant. Enter 000256766 at check out. The offer expires on August 8.
What We Say: Lane Bryant is a great source of casual wear, office clothes, swimwear and more for women sizes 14-28. An entire category of their website is dedicated to career wear, so head here for work clothes or interview outfits. Their bright array of basic T-shirts for hanging around the house is fun and at only 15 bucks a piece, you can get tops in several colors. Lane Bryant gives you the ability to build your entire wardrobe up, which makes this 25% off deal awesome.
Check out some of our picks:
This floral print tunic has unique colors of tan, khaki gold and blue, which is a refreshing change from the usual floral colors. $44.50.
The solid micro-sanded Bermuda short has the ability to transform from casual, with sandals and a cotton shirt, to dressy with heels and a blouse. Black and stone are $34.50, while the brighter colors are $19.75.
Pictured: This black and white short sleeved textured jacket matches with almost any solid color office wear you have—contrast it with bright colors! $54.50.
Torrid Announces Plus Size Bridal Collection
Torrid, aka the hipper mall based plus size shop, recently launched a bridal collection available online at Torrid.com
. The collection features dresses (from $140 to $220), lingerie, and accessories (like the hat shown above).
While the accessories are pretty cute (if anyone decides to get the wedding hat shown above, PLEASE send us a photo… I just love that hat), $220 is pretty pricey for a dress from Torrid, especially considering the questionable quality of some of their garments.
Stephanie Zwicky and Le Blog de Big Beauty: French Women Don’t Get Fat, They Get Fabulous
For those of you who think that every woman in France is a size two (and who could blame you? all the books, movies, etc about France spread this myth), then you must head over to Stephanie Zwicky’s Le Blog de Big Beauty blog . This Plus Size French model/comedienne/actress/blogger/celebrity is quickly dispelling the myth that all french women are skinny (with all that butter, chocolate and great bread? yeah right), while highlighting that French women of all sizes have an incredible sense of style. Whether she’s taking photos of herself in incredible outfits or highlighting French plus size designers, this woman’s got undeniable style.
And…..most of fashion were purchased from relatively budget friendly stores like Torrid and local thrift stores.
Love it…
Visit Stephanie’s blog (Note: it’s in French)
We Love Colors Launches Colorful Plus Size Tights Line
I have a big butt AND 4ft of legs. Even when I was a size 8, I had to purchase Queen sized tights because regular tights just weren’t long enough. What I soon found out was that the hoisery industry, apparently, believes that plus size women are color-blind and only like to wear shades of black or brown.
Enter the folks from We Love Colors, who recently released a line of lyrca tights in plus sizes (160-375lb) in over 45 colors. Yes, 45 colors. We’re talking blues, purples, yellows, you name it. The tights are pricey- $15.00 a pair is signficantly more than my Wal-Mart bought “Just-Her-Size”, however you would be hard pressed to find a pair of yellow plus size tights anywhere else.
Visit We Love Colors,
Note: We Love Colors, please hire a real stylist. The outfit on the model is sccccaaarryyy.
Plus Size Prom Dresses on a Budget
If you’re a curvy girl looking for the perfect prom dress, finding something special on a budget can be especially challenging. We’ve done a little footwork, however, and found some picks that just might do the trick, and leave you enough cash to buy a fab pair of shoes, too.
Classic black with a little sparkle, $49 at alight.com
Pleated halter dress in attention-grabbing red, $54.99 at Fashion Bug
Necessary Objects liquid silver dress, $75, at Macy’s
A satin and chiffon formal dress, in 13 colors, $44.99 on Amazon.com
Black halter dress with jeweled detailing, $78 at Torrid.com
Topshop in New York, Plus Size Sister Store to Soon Follow
After years of speculation, TopShop, the British version of H&M, has signed a lease for it’s first US store to be located at 480 Broadway (Broadway & Broome in SOHO) in New York City. The store recently gain worldwide fame for partnering with supermodel Kate Moss on her line of surprisingly cute clothing. Also word is that TopShop’s parent group, Arcadia, is looking to bring it’s high fashion plus size stores, Evans Plus size, to the US as well. Word to Lane Bryant- better step up your game because Evans has great plus size items
Fashion Advice: Plus Size Evening Dress
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
Dear Budget Fashionista-
I am a plus-sized woman and was just invited to a black-tie optional event in early December. I’m 28 and don’t want to look 58. On top of that, I’d like to cover my arms (or at least the tops- I hate them!) and disguise my huge belly.
Any suggestions?
Answer: Girl believe it or not, you’ve got options. Look for dresses gather to the side (think wrap dress) and/or so a bit of cleavage. Believe it or not, the more skin you show, the thinner you look, plus everyone will be too busy looking at your fabulous cleavage to notice any “figure” issues.
One of the best shops for fashion forward plus size evening dresses is the site igigi.com. The site offers tasteful evening wear for those who want to be a bit more covered for around the $100 mark. The Novelle evening dress shown above (available in black and red) covers your arms, has the side gathering, and shows some skin, for around $150.
You can also try the more traditional department stores. Macys sometimes has a fairly good selection of trendy plus size evening wear in select stores (check online as well), but stay away from Lane Bryant (which tends to be way too casual) and Torrid
(which tends to be more prom-like).
Fashion Advice: Plus Size Fashion in New York
Dear Budget Fashionista,
Where can I find great plus size fashion in New York City on a budget? Is that even possible?
A: The plus size budget pickin’ in New York City are few and far between. You can try Century 21 (which has a so-so women’s department) and Daffy’s (which has an okay selection at its herald square location across the street from Macys), both of which can be hit or miss. Another shop to try is Ashley Stewart, an urban branded store along the lines of Lane Bryant, which is sort of like the Forever 21 of the plus size industry (cheap prices, cheaply made clothes).
There’s also a new consignment/resale shop called Redressnyc that has opened in a section of Brooklyn called Boerum Hill. This store is well worth the trip over the river (a quick trip from Manhattan on the F), as it is probably the best option for fashion forward plus size fashionistas. This spacious shop is filled with both low end pieces (OldNavy.com, Gap
, Lane Bryant
) and higher end/vintage items (Marina Rinaldi, etc), with prices in the $15-$600 price range. While things are always “cheap” at this store, you will find a large amount of unique pieces you don’t see in traditional plus size shops. Tell the owner, Deb, that we sent you.
On the higher-end (very high end) try Saks Fifth Avenue (10th floor), Bloomingdales
(basement), Macys (on the 7th or 8th floor) and Lord & Taylor (either 7th or 8th floor). All three have plus-size departments and a wide selection from designers like Ellen Tracy, Anne Klein, Ralph Lauren, Oscar De La Renta and Inc. The best time to shop these stores is in July/August and January/Feb, otherwise expect to spend your mortgage.
Also try boutiques like Daphne’s Design House, Eileen Fisher (the best store is on 395 Broadway), and Lafayette 148. All are pretty high end, but have a solid selection of plus size fashions.
Readers: If you have any suggestions for great plus size stores in NYC, post them below!
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