Inspiration - Plus Size Models

The fashion world is doing a better job at embracing women who aren't a size 2. I am always in awe of the amazing confidence of plus size models.  They appear in ads, walk the runway and compete for jobs against women who are less than half their size.  Keep in mind that in the fashion world any woman over a size 8 is considered plus size.  Of course this isn't the same as off the rack clothing.

Many of these beautiful ladies have battled anorexia in order to get modelling jobs. They've come to accept their natural size and shape and embrace their curves. I'm finding inspiration in these women as I continue my 30 for 30 journey.

(l to r) Crystal Renn, Kate Dillon, Toccara Jones, Whitney Thompson, Mia Tyler, and Ashley Graham

P.S. Another 30 for 30 post coming soon...

Great New Find: eShakti.com

I am so excited to have found a new fashion site today. I'm forever in love with designers and companies that design and create fashion in a wide range of sizes. By wide range I mean small to 3x or larger. As a plus size girl I'm constantly frustrated that an outfit or item I love only comes in sizes 0 - 12.

Yaaay for eShakti! They design and create amazing pieces in sizes 0 - 26W!  They will even customize garments to exact specifications and measurements for only $7.50!  If the custom item doesn't fit or doesn't meet your needs, you can return it!  I can't wait to place my first order. All of their fashion finds can be viewed at: http://www.eshakti.com/. They even have an overstock section at 35% off. My favorites are: .

Ruffle Collar Wool Blend Coat $89.95

I adore the vintage vibe of this dress. I know I'll feel like I just stepped out of a Mad Men episode.

Floral Applique Shawl Collar Dress $69.95



Band Stripe Detail Top $39.95


This skirt screams summer but I think it would be so much fun to wear it with tights, boots and a sweater, right now. It would bring a pop of color to the winter months.

Garden Party Embellished Hem Skirt $59.95

Now I only have to decide what my budget can afford. I'll keep you posted.

SALE is not a four letter word...

It's sale time! YAAAY!  I love this time of year when the weather is still warm enough for short sleeves but you might need a jacket and you can get away with boots or tights sometimes.  The stores are getting rid of their summer merchandise and stocking up on winter. Lots of them are offering sales, mid-season, pre-season, post-season, who cares!? A sale is a sale.

ASOS, one of my favorite net sites is having their mid-season sale. For the uninitiated, ASOS is a British company that is now also catering to the US.  I'm thrilled because their fashion forward items are fantastic. They have great sales and they carry items in a huge range of prices. Plus, they are offering FREE SHIPPING both ways.  Which means, if the items don't fit, you won't even have to pay to return it to them. You can't lose. I bought two dresses (less than $25 each) and a tank ($10) yesterday that will be fantastic transitional pieces. They are spring/summer pieces that can be worn into the fall with a jacket or sweater. Did I mention that ASOS also sells Petite, Plus, Maternity, Men's, beauty products, and tons of great shoes? Check them out.

Coldwater Creek is another site that has a wide range of sizes. They are currently having a 25% off sale. That's 25% off of EVERYTHING! They have great basic and casual pieces. I also love some of their interesting jackets to jazz up a basic black dress or pants. I got an email this morning and loved the suggestion they had for layering.

photo credit: Coldwater Creek

I love the idea of using a vest under a casual jacket to add layers but not bulk. It's fantastic! I think that my NYC thrift store vest will be making an appearance like this very soon.

Shopping various web sites can help you to find cool new pieces at great prices. Don't forget to hit the sales.