One jacket

I can no longer count the number of times someone says to me, I can't see how I can wear one garment other than the way I always wear it.

So to those who think one garment only has one part to play in her wardrobe, here's an example of one jacket, worn slightly differently in three ways, all with the clever use of accessories to highlight it.

Now just think of how many other ways you could wear this same jacket.   A black pencil thin skirt; a slightly flared skirt; chocolate brown pants; black or chocolate brown cargoes,  knee length shorts;  white pants in different lengths; then why not terracotta red pants; skirts; belts;  bags etc.?

Different hats, handbags, belts and shoes not to mention different ear-rings and bangles and necklets, and even scarves, will always compliment a single garment like this, and expand your wardrobe into many areas to meet the requirements of your life-style.   Casual, conservative, semi formal - you name it.  

Now do you get the idea?

Florals!

Looks like florals are making a real comeback, even in leggings!  While I'm not particularly keen to add a tight pair of floral leggings to my wardrobe, I will certainly be tempted to considering floral tops, tunic tops or jackets.    It can take a bit of practice to get things right when it comes to clever dressing and getting the colour scheme to suit you (including contrasts), but when you become more adept at seeing yourself in colours it becomes a lot easier.  And believe me, it's great fun.  We've got a lot going for us you know, we curvaceous ones, because there's more of us to enhance!

I was talking to a group of ladies this morning and they were bemoaning the fact that there's no colour around.   It didn't take long to realise that they were talking about life in general - it seems the grey skies of Melbourne have really dampened their spirits.  One even said her garden was a mess as there wasn't a touch of colour showing as yet and that Spring was terribly late.   I took the camera out when I got home just to see whether there was any colour in my garden and yes, while it wasn't obvious, it just takes a different frame of mind to see what is around us, when we think everything is dull and grey.  Even the tiny, tiny little new shoots on the rose bush.   I was once again reminded that nature comes up with some lovely colour combinations.

Well, even though I admit that this Winter is very lengthy and VERY cold, it's amazing just what colour there is around us.  I noticed a little girl of about 2 this morning dressed up in her favourite football team's colours - red and black, and that got me to thinking just how versatile these two colours are.  In fact I've highlighted black and red a couple of times recently.

But if we take note of the fact that florals are back in vogue, why not make the most of them.  Because from what I've seen so far, these florals are BIG in size and big in intensity of colour.   No little tiny flowers but big, bold, blatant, blazing floral designs, some slightly abstract.  But all making a statement, and this is what we need to do, make a statement to the world, as well as to ourselves.   We may be big but we surely can be bold and beautiful!

Jumping the gun!

No, I'm not referring to any race at the Olympic Games!   What I'm referring to is getting in early for summer!

Summer I hear you ask?  When we're experiencing top temperatures of 12 degrees?  Well, yes, I am thinking about summer, because when it arrives quite often there isn't the same choice of swimwear around!  Everybody else has beaten us through the store doors.

I received my Ezibuy catalogue yesterday, and as always there are some lovely garments for the young, slim and trim.  But I'm always eager to see what the Sara range is all about.   The page on swimwear has some nice offerings.  At first I thought - they're nice but why not give us a selection of colours?  Yet when I thought more about it, I came to the conclusion that the colours of "Ink", that sort of blue that melds with almost anything and bright white are just the thing to represent bright blue skies and white sands.

Here's an example of the Sara range of swimwear.   I've also included their sizings, as we all know the confusion and frustration we feel when we really don't have a clue about manufacturers/suppliers precise sizings.

Curvaceous, feminine and flirty!

The young curvaceous woman has everything going for her.  That includes some gorgeous fashion.   The local City Chic group has some lovely garments at the moment, and if you're in the mood for parties then you can't miss out on something like this - their Eyelash Frill Dress. - up to size XXL (size 24).   Why not even get in early for your Christmas dress?  You'll "light" up more than just a mere room!

City Chic's writeup is as follows:  "Look and feel beautiful in this Eyelash Frill Dress.  This soft and floaty woven style flows beautifully and features gorgeous frills with an eyelash hem, a boned bodice with shirring on sides,  adjustable straps, invisible zip closure and is fully lined."

LAYERING!

I can't count the number of times someone has said to me I don't understand it when you talk about layering.  Is it that the concept itself is difficult to understand or is it that sometimes women have difficulty in establishing what layering can do for them?

Having been a great devotee of layering from "way back", I like seeing some of the newer suppliers who use colours and layering to great effect.   In fact a recent post covered this very same subject, but I thought it was well worth re-visiting, with this lovely outfit just being promoted by Taking Shape 14 plus here in Australia.  

Their garments are sized from 14-24 (Australian sizings).

I love the red used as the major base colour with white, black and floral used to enhance the outfit.

For those of you who don't usually think about "layering", see how many layers you can find at very first glance and think about how YOU can use layering to great effect to compliment and enhance your looks and wardrobe.

Underwear verus "Lingerie"

Being more curvaceous than some means going without many of the nice pleasures of life.   Too often people (and I include manufacturers and retailers) think that just because there is a little "more of us" then we are less of a person.

And being less of a person in many people's minds and attitudes means that we're treated differently to women of petite or "typical" sizes.  Why?

It all comes down to the fact that because we have flesh on our bodies that any garment will need more fabric, and quite often a different "engineering" perspective to create something that will enhance and compliment our curves.

So it is with undies.    Underwear has undergone radical and technological changes over the decades.   "Bloomers" are practical - yes, but let's face it when we dress up we'd like to have beautiful lingerie as the basis of that outfit.

So it's nice to see that women's "lingerie" has kept pace with the modern woman's expectations of what she likes and what she wants!   It's taken a while though for manufacturers to get "with it" and realise that the more buxom woman wants the same thing as her thinner and slimmer sister but there are many websites offering beautiful lingerie - and at affordable prices.

Here's an example from Yandy USA - their range of "plus-size" lingerie is very tempting.   Sizings?  Up to 4X (American).

Am I biased?

I've been studying "big issues" for a long time now - quite a few decades in fact.   So I think I can speak authoritatively on many aspects as they relate to the more curvaceous woman.   For those of you who are not on my mailing list for the monthly newsletter, then you will not be aware that many of the more pertinent subjects that impact upon our lives are covered within its pages, while this blog focusses on "fashion".  Contact me if you'd like to be added to my mailing list.

There are times when I think I am very "positive-thinking" while at other times I have to admit I do tend towards pessimism.   Especially when it comes to "FULL" acceptance across the board for the bigger woman, whether it be in the home, her career or even within her family and circle of acquaintances.

But let's get back to "fashion".   Now everyone knows we wear clothes - whether we're a size zero or a size 5X.  It's quite obvious that we NEED to wear clothes otherwise we'd be naked and charged with "indecent exposure"!  LOL.  

I get disappointed at times with what is dished up as "fashion" for the more curvaceous woman here in Australia - even moreso when I see the clothing that is provided, and on offer from overseas.   At more or less similar prices.

I'm showing a comparison here of an Australian supplier and an American supplier.   The garments are of a similar type - casual yet with the ability to be worn after hours meeting with friends or going out for dinner after work.  

The title of this post is "AM I BIASED?".   And I've thought about this a lot.   When I compare the two  - Australian and American - I have to come to the conclusion that the Australian product is to my mind second-class.  It's probably OK to wear VERY casually, but the American product is wearable for any occasion and will always look smart.  The quality of the fabric says a lot too, and this current trend of using stretchy-crepey fabric for the majority of clothes over here to me smacks of a "don't really care" attitude by the manufacturer/supplier/retailer.  This type of fabric doesn't wash well and garments soon need to be replaced!  Unfortunately women purchase this fabric because too often there's nothing better on offer.

Another thing that should be taken into account too is that having to replace items so often, even if they are "cheap" or inexpensive, is that in the long run they cost more than a garment in a better quality fabric at a higher price in the first place.

For those women who like to build up a wardrobe of intelligent, mix-n-match items, budgets do come into the picture and how much wiser it is to invest in good quality, stylish, ageless garments to meet that ambition.

No, I don't think I'm biased, after all!

A beautiful Wrap Dress

Vadela Wrap Dress

From Igigi, USA

One of the most flattering styles of dress for the curvaceous woman is the wrap.   And there are few who do it better than Igigi.

Set-in flutter sleeves and A-line skirt trimmed with cascading flounce is set aglow with its deep gem tone hue. A true wrap-around silhouette that adjusts with ties to achieve your desired coverage makes this a summer staple!

Designed and made in San Francisco, USA

Color: Turquoise
Material: ViscoseRayon/Elastane
Care: Hand Wash in Cold Water or Dry Clean

Another UK website worth visiting

Butterfly Print Rain Mac from Style 369.com

• Price: £29.50
• Colour: Grey
• Item code: 05J13LNEU

• Showerproof butterfly print rain mac
• With front zip and popper fastening
• Hood with draw cord
• Front pockets
• Length: 91cm (35")
• 100% Polyester
• Machine washable  

In sizes up to 24.  Delivery includes to Australia.

Where is my Australian audience?

It's interesting to study the statistics of viewers and visitors to this blog.   And I find it somewhat amusing (?), and surprising, to find that the majority of my visitors are from the USA.  Hi there to everyone in the US.

But where are my Australian "followers" hiding?   Is it a fact that anything "home-grown" is seen to be less interesting than overseas blogs and websites?   Or could it be that this blog just isn't interesting at all to Australian plus sizers?

If you're a plus sizer and you feel that you're being overlooked as far as focus, attitudes and fashion are concerned, then please become more involved with this blog.   Comment on what you see, and even suggest some of your favourite websites which we can highlight.

If there are issues or subjects which you believe are not being addressed when it comes to widening our knowledge of what a plus sizer needs and wants in this world, then write and participate through the monthly issue of RoseMary's NoteBook© (the newsletter).  

If you would like to have your own column and/or to write on a regular basis about things that you see are important (no diets, please), then contact us direct at rosemarypb@aapt.net.au and have a chat.

RoseMary's NoteBook© (the newsletter) is distributed world wide to a confidential mailing list which is managed by me personally, and not through a "third-party" company that initiates and sends emails from a "foreign desk".  

Come on girls, let's encourage more  involvement and thus more openly discussing those things that impact upon the lives of women, regardless of age, size and shape, in this day and age.

Australian fashion for the plus-sizer

I'm always on the look out for Australian designed and/or made clothing for women.  Especially for the plus-sizer.

I've just had a look again at the Zebart site and found some nice garments which will compliment any women's wardrobe.

See if you agree.

SOMETHING from NEW ZEALAND

There are some quite exciting websites providing fashion clothing for women.   One of my favourites is Zebrano and two of the labels that often take my eye are those of Chocolat and Mela Purdie.   Visit Zebrano's website and take a tour.

The "Wild" One - a girl's version

Lace Biker Jacket

Anna Scholz  has done it again!

White Label - EXCLUSIVE

Get your motor runnin'! Head out on the highway! Anna's fitted jacket takes biker chic to the next level in gorgeous black lace over a satiny cognac-coloured lining. This slimming hip-length silhouette offers an unusual colour combination and lovely texture. But you still get all the classic cool details, such as the brass off-centre front zipper, wrist zips and angled zip front pockets. Create sexy, sophisticated retro suits with a bad-girl edge by pairing this jacket with Anna's matching black lace skirt or dress, or with the matching cognac of the dynasty pleat shift dress. It also looks smokin' over Anna's leopard print silk pieces. Fabric content: 100% Nylon, Lining 100% Polyester

Maybe .....

Maybe Spring isn't really too far off.   Of course the fact that our overnight temperatures are down around the zero mark with top temperatures here in the foothills sometimes near enough to 14 doesn't really effect our thinking, when we see the sun shining.  It's not a hot sun, but it sure makes a person smile.  And in that smile our thoughts definitely DO turn to Spring.

I went out the front door this morning to check the post, and saw with such pleasure the one and only camellia bush on the block, out in bloom, with hundreds of buds to follow the first-blooms.

You only have to look at flowers in a garden to realise just how easily they adapt to colour variations.  I realise this photo shows what we used to call "a sport" (or a variation from the original colour of the blooms which should be on this bush) but when it sits in amongst all sorts of variations then it's a pretty sight.

That got me thinking.  How often do we allow our imagination to take flight when it comes to what we wear.  Most of know how to dress tone-on-tone and also contrast, but I love seeing women who let their fancy fly, and they dress in all sorts of colours and textures, complimenting each other, and most definitely complimenting the wearer.

I really don't understand when plus-sizers tell me that they "wouldn't dare to dress like that!"  My question is, like what?  Because clothing is clothing and should be worn with panache and style.  It doesn't matter what size we are.  It's all got to do with our self-esteem!   

Accessories - Scarfs

For many plus sizers, buying new clothes becomes a bit hard, especially if the budget is tight!   This is where accessories come into their own, and it doesn't take much to extend your wardrobe simply by adding accessories that attract the eye!

While most plus sizers have found a basic colour scheme to build upon, there are times when bright, vivid colour is needed to uplift not only the outfit but also one's confidence.

Like so many women I love scarves - I have quite a collection I've got to admit.   And while I have my favourites, I'm always willing to learn new and exciting ways of wearing them.

I came across this YounTube video from Coldwater Creek, and I'd encourage you to watch it.   It brings out the "creativity" side of me, and I've no doubt it will do the same to you too.

Watch and enjoy.

Pampering ourselves

It's during winter time that I come back to the idea that we should pamper ourselves more often.  Not that any other season doesn't demand we do likewise, but for some reason the cold, wet, wintry days bring with them the feeling that everything is dreary and damp and all we can do is have a hot cup of soup to keep warm and stay indoors for the day.

The past few weeks have certainly not been conducive to looking around the shops or shopping centres for clothes.  If I'm honest I do have enough to suit my lifestyle.  While I love bringing new fashion trends and ideas from local and overseas suppliers, I think it's also most important that we give ourselves our little treats now and then.

I ventured out this morning just to do the normal chores, and stopped and looked at the window display at a small florist in our local shopping centre.  All the presentations were flambouyant in colour, sizes and all with different types of petals and leaves.  Having chosen a couple of cards from the card display I walked to the counter at the back of the shop and was assailed by the most fragrant perfume imaginable.  And with that perfume came countless happy memories from the past.

Was the perfume from a big, bold, flower stem?  No, it was the tiniest little bunch of winter violets, sitting in a small glass vase on the counter.  There was no hesitation - I opened my wallet and bought them - just for myself.  Just to tell myself I am special!

The more I observe, the more I become convinced that plus-sizers particularly lose the inclination to "spoil" themselves occasionally.  Is this because we've been told or had it inferred that we're not worth it?  Because this is one of the unkindest lies told to us  -  we all need to know we're loved, and there's something special about a little bunch of violets that remind me that I am important and special to myself, and even more incredibly to others.

Isn't that worth celebrating?  

In what way do you occasionally "treat" yourself to something out of the ordinary?

Packing for a holiday

If you're anything like me, you start off with a few things to pack into your suitcase and before you know it, you have to change the case to a bigger one.  The reason is that so often we find we just "HAVE" to include this garment or that, and it seems that we leave home with an empty wardrobe, but a suitcase that is impossible to cart around because there's just too much in it.

Liz Davenport created a "Wardrobe in a Suitcase" many years ago, and it's just as pertinent today as it was back then.   The concept is simple - have a few well designed (and made) garments with which you can mix and match, and it's absolutely amazing how many outfits you can create with a little bit of thought.

Visit her website to see some of her latest collections.

To whet your appetite though, here's a sample of her "wardrobe in a suitcase".    I just love the idea - and for my plus size readers, look outside of the square.  If you can build up a practical, workable, and affordable wardrobe by sticking to the basics and in a few chosen colour schemes, then you have the same advantage of any of our slimmer sisters.  It's all in the challenge of allowing your imagination to go wild!

Looks like .......

Everything's coming up roses.  Or to be more to the point, everything's coming up florals.

And beautiful florals at that.  

Here's a couple that should delight the senses (and the pocket).

Firstly one from Yours (UK) in sizes 14-32.

And from Igigi (USA):

Sale! Sale! Sale!

If anyone thinks there's nothing much on offer when it comes to larger size clothing, then think again.  There's plenty, and there are so many sales STILL going on!

Zebrano (New Zealand) have some stunning labels and their Winter sale is gathering momentum.  Don't miss out.

Lady in Blue!

Simple lines, beautiful styling, a flattering look.  What more could you ask for?

If you like blue, then this is the dress for you.  Once again it's from Kiyonna.

Don't you love the neckline and the draping effect of the front?

Pretty Florals

Fashion trends come and go.   Some that we don't even want to think about.  Well, not we plus sizers that is!

But it's nice to see that florals have returned.  I've just visited the Kiyonna site again after a bit of a break and found this lovely outfit.  The skirt has the added bonus of a kick pleat, which makes all the difference to not only being comfortable but able to manage sitting down gracefully!

Big Girl in a Skinny World

There are some great videos around, and I just came across this one on Youtube.

Accessories, in this instance - BELTS.   It astounds me sometimes how many plus-sizers don't take advantage of all the BIG stuff that's around when it comes to accessories.

Just because there is more of us, doesn't mean that we should ignore our femininity.

Watch and enjoy.

There's a little bit of animal in all of us!

Amazing how the "fashion" cycle turns and we find some of our favourites coming back.   Animal prints are loved by many and I certainly add animal print scarves or even camis to my wardrobe whenever I see anything that really takes my eye.

Igigi have again brought animal prints into focus.   And what a wild feast this collection is.

A little bit of glamour!

It's so nice to see "pretty" things for the plus sizer.  Just because there is a little "more of us" doesn't mean that we should be ignored by manufacturers and retailers.

Such is definitely not the case when it comes to Big Time Clothing Co.

Leopard Print Cami

Camisole in printed crepe georgette with black piping around the neck and armholes. Side splits for ease of movement. Team with it's matching panel skirt and one of our jackets for a smart outfit to suit the office as well as take you through a night out. Add a necklace or scarf to change the look. Measurements: Length at side seam from underarm to hem:  In Sizes up to 28/30.

Retailers doing it "hard"?

We're being told that the retail industry is in the doldrums.   Especially the major retailers.

Does this explain why there are "sales" going on constantly?   I'm not sure.  But one thing I am sure of is that it doesn't matter what country you may be talking about, there are certainly clothing "sales" being promoted and advertised.  Some up to 50-60% off, and more.

One small thing that worries me sometimes is whether this clothing is priced too high to start off with?   Or are the retailers over-stocked?  Or is the quality of the garment impeding its popularity with potential customers?  I've got my own thoughts on this question.

However, do take advantage of some of the sales that are on the web at the moment.  Here in Australia - Undercoverwear.  Over the years Undercoverwear have extended their ranges into normal clothing.  Here are two tope , the first at $15 and the second which I can vouch for.  It's one of the most comfortable tops I've come across.   Honestly how could you better the cost of this at $4?   And there are some in the size 26-28 range.

Then there's this top from Evans - UK.  This is nicely styled and different to most you see in the emarketplace.

Autumn with a bit of Spring in the air!

Seasons come and seasons go.  And sometimes they become all mixed up!   So it's not unusual for one day to be down around freezing (and even snowing) and the next a beautiful sunshiny day with a warmth that only requires a light jacket to counter the prospect of a coolness later in the day.

Here are some lovely items from Woman Within  Take time to visit this site - you're sure to find something that will take your eye.  I particularly like the twill jacket (very slimming lines).

Dress up any outfit

Jackets are making a comeback, and there are some truly beautiful ones out there.   With leggings or pants, or even smart jeans, a jacket will take you anywhere - from the office to a cocktail party;  from home to a special function;  and just fun to wear when meeting friends for coffee.
Smart, stylish, formal, casual - what a choice!

The Carpenters Daughter has again come up trumps with their latest selection of jackets.   Visit their site at The Carpenters Daughter and see for yourself.

Thinking of summer!

Now, I'm known to have a quirky sense of humour.  But I just couldn't resist including a couple of lovely swimsuits in today's blog.   What made me think of summer?   Well, I've just been watching the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations which included the Royal Barge sailing down the Thames with a flotilla of thousands of boats.  In the pouring rain - heavy fog and everything in between - and it's supposed to be summer over there, isn't it?

Me? I'm shivering in about 7 degrees, trying to think "warm" thoughts, and inevitably those thoughts turn to the summer time.  So naturally swimsuits are a part of summer.   Hope you get my drift!

Here are a couple of swimsuits to appeal to your summery thoughts - and of course if you're planning to go to the tropics within the next week or so, then why not take advantage of getting something really snazzy to wear.

Visit Uniquely Me in the USA.

Winter Knits

Already the chill is in the air.   We don't need any excuse to snuggle up though.

What do you think of this lovely Poncho?   In polyester cotton knit, it has a front closing of big brass buttons.

This is the sort of garment that is surprisingly versatile.  If you have a figure that is VERY curvaceous then this style of garment enhances every proud inch.  Worn with leggings or slimline pants or jeans, then you are going to feel, and look,  fantastic.

Throw over any outfit and you'll get compliments aplenty.   And you'll also be warm and cosy.  Visit Big Time Clothing.  

Lounging and Leisure Wear

For the plus-sizer, it can sometimes become a problem in finding lovely "lounging" wear.   After full day either at the office, or being a Mum, the first thing you want to do is to change into something more comfortable.

How's this for starters?   Visit UllaPopken and see what I mean.   There's presently a sale on too - which makes it twice as attractive to spend a little time seeing what's on offer.