Denim Dilema

Why oh why must I constantly battle the denim blues? It’s like I have a love hate relationship with denim, and I’m beginning to think it’s a battle that I will never win.

A few months ago I thought this battle was over once and for all. I discovered Jag jeans, loved the fit. But lately, ehhhhh not so much. I noticed a few months back that as I wore my jeans they would begin to wear in the middle, you know where my thighs rub together. Come on now girls; don’t act like you don’t have this problem. So I thought maybe it was my handling of the jeans so I got another pair, b/c as I mentioned I loved the fit. Same ol same ol, they just didn't last.

So here I am, back at the drawing board, for a durable, stylish, flattering pair of jeans. My Biggest complaints with Jeans

 1. Pockets are not proportionate - I cannot understand why some jean makers put small pockets on plus sized jeans…If I can’t get my hand in the pocket I know those jeans are not right for my backside and it makes my big ol butt look silly.

2. Too much Stretch- Jeans have entirely too much stretch material, making them more of stretch pants than denim. Tip- if there’s more shiny/white threads visibily displayed in the denim its too much stretch

3. High price for inferior quality – its not always true that you get what you pay for, however a fair price for a nicely constructed and styled pair of jeans is highly desired.

At this point I’ll await my Levi’s & my ZCO jeans to arrive, I am hoping they are on point, will definitely follow-up with a blog including pictures once they arrive.

Also, if you have any denim brands you live by please share, I’m considering all options at this point.

Ciao

Fall 2009-Anything Goes

I don't know whats gotten into the air!

This fall, fashion seems more liberating, expressive, and unrestricted than ever.

With so many hot trends, so many people going trendless, whats a curvy gal to do this season???

Whatever your curvy heart desires.

You see the trends scan across such wide landscapes. A few of my faves are listed here.

• Elegance - Think 40's era glamour, accentuate womanly curves, don a cape, a scarf, a pocketbook...you are right on track

• The Biker Gang - Leather, leather, and anything that resembles leather such as jackets, tight pants, vests, get it in but I highly suggest avoid that overly cheesy plastic looking leather, me no likey

• Wallstreet Invasion- i.e the power broker, think old school business getups, strong suits, fierce statements, business has never been so haute!!

• Ecclectic artesian- a bit boho inspired taking the layering effect over for fall. Lots of sweaters, blazers, hats, gloves, thin belts. Layer strategically and allow your personality to shine! 

• Animal Insticts - Leapord print, Zebra stripes, Cheetah, Animal prints are huge this fall so toy around with your fashion kitty

This is truly one season where practically anything goes.

Whats the inspiration behind your style?

While at an interview this morning,the interviewer asked me from where did I get my style. My first response was I create it. Like really that's the first thing that came to mind. After her blank stare I felt I had to elaborate a bit and told her I use the influences around me (TV, music, nature, society & trends) with a bit of creativity to come up with something that feels right to me.

So, what motivates or inspires your style?

Besides my crafty ability to coordinate, I'm influenced by everything. A few examples:

I walked past the theatre this morning and now I have this strong desire for a Mary Poppins inspired trench coat, peplum bodice and all, with a few variations.

I noticed this guy that could give Ms Jay a run for his money pertaining to signatures walks, rocking these interesting shoes. They were a cross between a cowboy boot and a loafer. Not instantly covetous, but interesting, which inspired me to cut the hem on this floral dress and add some Western details-my next project pending my tentative move.

I say all this to say, find your fashion center, whatever or wherever it may be, by tuning in to everything around you. One of my favorite movies is the Sound of Music, when she turned those ugly drapes into those outfits for those kids it sparked something inside me. Find what makes your sytle spark. If you need some assistance, I'm here to help!!!!

Black & White All Over-My Fav summer color combo

Everyday Effortless Chic

The Power of Transformation!!!

Before Pic

I did a makeover a few weeks ago. A client booked me for her younger cousin Meka, paid in advance for my fees as well as the merchandise (now that's the type of client I love). When I spoke with my client she was deeply troubled. She stated her cousin was a very beautiful young girl, however she let societies interpretation of her curves allow her to sometimes present herself in a manner which was far from stellar. 

Fast forward to the date of our consultation. I was completely shocked when I met Meka! Standing before me was a gorgeous young woman. I proceeded to explain my wealth of knowledge, deciphering trend and style, informing how to dress for your figure, play up your best assets, and to most importantly recognize that beauty comes from within, the clothing makeup and accessories are just icing on the cake.

As Meka got dressed, I witnessed the transformation first hand. The girl got it. I saw her eyes light up, and I saw her start to really take advantage of the situation. When clothes didn't fit, she quickly took them off and tried another piece, not caring why it didn't work. She was feeling herself so much I decided to do an impromptu photo shoot, and although I have a fancy camera I am no photographer. At the end of the night Meka had a bunch of clothes that fit her well, and most importantly that uplifted the views she held about her curves and about herself.

After Pic                

I write about this experience, to illustrate how the misinformation about fashion and the curvy figure can allow some to not fully reveal themselves to the world. You see we've come a long way concerning the plus movement but there is still a long way to go. If those around you (family, so called friends, society) chime in that curves are unattractive, not fashionable, unhealthy, ugly, not coveted by the  opposite sex, your hips are too big (that was for me, lol) and those are the only things one sees and hears, its not too difficult to understand why some fall into those "I don't do fashion" ques.

 After Pic

I am passionate about what I do, and I find a real need for stylists who are dedicated to the curvy figure. Many curvy divas, size 16 to size 26, ages 16 to ages 46, just don't know how to relate to fashion. The merchandising in  stores is often non existent, and most magazines and TV shows don't have curvy figures, so for those who rely on those images to build their fashion identities are left by the wayside. 

Curvy Stylist, Plus Size Stylists, Stylists in general, show the curves some love! Share your gifts and talents because this is a movement, whether you recognize it or not. I pray you choose to willingly particpate and uplift those around you, it can only get better!!!

Prissi Chic

The Miseducation of Foundations

As a curvy girl, big girl, real woman, or whatever term of endearment you give your figure, proper foundations are a must.  Spanks have been around for a few years now and everyone seems to love them, but to get down to the nitty gritty of the subject, I myself prefer traditonal girdles and brassieres.

Lets face it, many women do not wear proper undergarments which ruins many an outfit (chicks please get a regular bra fitting it can save your stylish life). For curvy girls our imperfections are easier to identify, so proper undergarments are a MUST!!!!!!

With that said, I'll give you my top 3 myths on Girdles and hopefully it will inspire you curvy divas to wear yours with pride!!!!!

Top 3 Myths about Girdles

1. They're Painful



Ladies, ladies ladies, get the notion out of your head that girdles are painful. Yes some of them are, but what they do for some figures is well worth the trade off. Not all foundations are painful, find one that works for you, they have really nice microfiber shapers that provide nice support. Get held in and commit to looking your best.

2.They're Not Sexy

3. I don't need one


I don't care if you are a size 12 or size 28, YOU TOO can benefit from a girdle. Lets face it if your body isn't that of a 13 year old boy you can benefit from some sort of foundational support. I have skinny friends who rock foundations, so if they want to present their best figures why shouldn't we??? I love my curves, however I love them even more when they're smoothed out so my luxurious clothing can glide over them effortlessly.

Girdles aren't for fat girls, they are for women who understand the importance of a firm canvas for their clothes to drape. Designers have been saying for years that they use skinny models because the clothes lay better, not that I am agreeing with that nonsense, but art appears better on a smoother canvas.


Ladies I suggest going out and getting a proper bra fitting, try out a real girdle, depending on your shape I would also try out a waist cincher, a corset and a long line bra, (all personal faves). You will be amazed at the results.


Finally I would suggest steering clear of mainstream plus stores, personally I hate their girdles, they are more like power panties if anything. See if your town has a specialty girdle/bra shop, or try a prom or specialty store, and most traditional department stores ( JC Penny,Sears, Macy's) still have great shape wear departments.


Take heed ladies!

My secret fashion obsession

Today I feel a strong desire to reveal a colossal secret I've been living with for many years....

I love Target!!! It's the only place I can score household essentials, those glass bottles of root beer, and fashionable clothing that fits my curves nicely in one well merchandised location. Below are some cute finds they have for under $30, and currently they are offering free shipping on orders over $50, great time to be fab...

Oh, so you thought that was the secret, sorry, it wasn't.

OK, so the secret, I feel like I'm on that Oprah Panel about the stars and the universe n stuff, OK here it goes. Drum roll please!!!!!!

I am in LOVEEEEEEE with Target's Maternity Line, and yes I sport their tops and dresses intended for buns in the oven with such fierceness and pride.

I find that on-line Targets Plus department is great, however in the store sometimes pickings are slim to none. Thats when I hop on over to the bun in the oven side and put together a nice ensamble. Below are a few fab finds:

For me, maternity works best with curvy chicks who aren't that top heavy, meaning smaller busts and tummies. Steer clear of the obvious Bun in the Oven looking attire, aim for choices similiar to those  above which have nice ruched details and loads of style.

Don't knock it to you try it, Y not???

One Wardrobe - Year Round Fabulosity

I love fall because it’s incredibly beautiful outside with the weather and the leaves changing as well as the sudden briskness that fills the air. Fall is also my favorite season for fashion because it allows a great deal of freedom and flexibility, as well as the ability to layer until my heart is fully content.

Since moving to the east coast and acquiring roommates, my closet has shrunk drastically, forcing me to get smarter with my wardrobe. I’m on this new kick of maintaining a year round wardrobe. I figure with the money I save each season I can go on a trip, or do more shopping, whichever comes firstJ.

Its sounds daunting at first, to have a wardrobe you can practically wear year round, however it’s a lot easier than you may think. Filling my closet with core pieces such as pants, skirts, dresses and blouses in trend defying colors, such as blacks, blues, grays, whites, & browns, as well as season defying prints (avoid anything overly summery unless you just love it and must have it) such as stripes, polka dots, and smart patterns provides a foundation on which this fashionista can create an endless array of outfits.

You may say, well those colors seem boring, and left alone you would be in the official color scheme of bankers international. However, by understanding how to truly build a fashionable outfit, you can incorporate color and excitement with accessories, sweaters, scarves, shoes, any number of different ways so that you are always in sync with fashion and don’t require a million pieces in your closet.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that women who always look good, shop and dress with a purpose, they don’t necessarily have dozens of closets filled with stuff. They buy things that they can always wear, which allows them to maximize on style and always look great!

So add a cardigan to that dress you fell in love with this summer, use a jacket to get extended use from a snazzy tunic, pair a sweater and boots with your fav summer skirt. Ladies keep it moving and keep it haute.

Let There Be TIGHTS!!!!

Tights are all the rage, and although I try not to jump head first into trends, mainly because their staying power varies and its easy to be influenced by the masses, this is one trend that has me hooked.

In my defense, I’ve always worn tights, however it was a bit harder to find the cooler ones because of my thicker thighs.

Thunder thigh warriors rest assured, you too can find awesome colors, textures, and patterns in your size, and I dare you to flaunt them effortlessly.

Tights also allow you to maximize the year round wardrobe I talked about in a previous post. Put some tights under some peddles pushers with a nice top and who will argue that you are inappropriately dressed for fall? No not one I tell you, because they will be rushing home to do  it themselves.

My fav places to find tights

Target- Sizes & Quantities are limited but their prices can’t be beat

Walmart- Although I rarely frequent this retailer they have a nice selection in plus sizes

Online- type in plus size tights and enjoy an endless selection. Prices vary but the style range can’t be matched

OK, I’ve given you ladies a head start, now let there be Tights!!!!!

Where's the Plus In Plus Size Models.....

It seems like nowadays everybody has a definition of plus: fat, curvy, some even compare us to whales. I honestly feel that as long as you are talking about me I'm doing something right, so keep it coming.

A few weeks ago I was pursuing Ashley Stewart looking for denim leggings to no avail. My skinny counterpart could not understand why all the models posted in the store were so thin. She asked question after question to understand how and why a thin model was displayed in a store geared to larger women.

Browsing most mainstream websites reviewing this Iconic flop by LB, I again revisited her question. Where are the thick models, the girls with hips, thighs, breasts, and dare I say it tummies???? Not that you can't be a size 14 (although I seriously doubt if those models are even 10's) or a size 32, but damn where is the plus????

So whats the deal?? Why aren’t plus size models, plus sized anymore? Could that also be the reason that a lot of the so called plus clothes have such an ill fitting effect on the truly plus size form?? Has plus size fashion gone the route of mainstream fashion, ostricizing those customers who made their industry???

As a fashion stylist I understand the difficulty that some may encounter when it comes to dressing curvier bodies. For one most models LIE about their sizes and measurements which is a why a testing is NECESSARY. However, dressing truly plus sized women CAN BE DONE, and in a tasteful and fashionable manner. 

So now I pose this question once more, where is the plus in plus size models???

Please share your thoughts, as I don’t have the answers to this.

I've missed you all!

Dear readers

I apologize, I have not been writing as I should. I  promise entertaining, informative and downright funny blogs will be posted soon.

Yours Truly

Prissi Chic

I've missed you all!

Dear readers

I apologize, I have not been writing as I should. I  promise entertaining, informative and downright funny blogs will be posted soon.

Yours Truly

Prissi Chic

More to Love-Hated It!!!!!

I’ve given up on television!! The pointless music & videos, the unattainable characteristics of beauty, and the fat women crying endlessly on every reality show geared for the growing American population. I cannot take it any longer.

As a woman who has been large all her life, who has shed her fair share of tears and dealt with the sorrows of growing up different, enough is enough.

I watched more to love the other evening and I was terribly disappointed. Despite the fact that roughly 2/3 of those beautiful women did not know themselves, did not appreciate who they were, and because they succumbed to all that we are told being fat is, I cannot tolerate such a show.

I say it over and over to clients, friends, and anyone who will listen, if you don’t love yourself please don’t expect someone else to. If I cannot find something to admire about myself, where I stand now, after all the improvements and enhancements it will not make a difference, because THERE WILL BE SOMETHING ELSE to gripe about.

I hate how plus sized women are portrayed on television, and I hate that plus sized women allow them the opportunities to paint us in such a manner. The one girl on the show who beams with confidence, self esteem, acceptance of her full self, they let go. Now if that says nothing to you, WAKE UP!!!!!

The world already thinks its ok to blame us for any and everything, let’s not let them think we sit home eating Ben & Jerry’s crying our eyes out. If being fat is really that bad for you, hit a treadmill, get a surgery, do something to change it!

That’s my stand on it, what's yours????

My Beef With Weight Loss TV

This blog is inspired by the Biggest Loser & Dance Your Ass Off tv shows

Now let me be first to say, I'd go on any show willing to pay me without subjecting me to eating snails, however I am a bit bothered by weight loss tv. Left alone as merely a show that helps and encourages people to get healthy, I think I would be on the bandwagon. However I think the main point of these shows is to poke fun at fat folks while they are supposedly 'trying to help them'.

Exhibit 1- The outfits

Why oh why must all the fat folks get on tv with the biggest koolaid smile and their fat roll clearly on display for all America to see. That was my biggest gripe with the biggest loser and now this dance your ass off show seems to do the same thing. Whats the point of having me in a sports bra if my gutt is bigger than my breasts, thats just mean... Seriously, if I'm in a tshirt someone watching tv might mistake me for being skinny, its really not going to happen, EVER.

Exhibit 2 - Self Hate

Does everyone on these shows have to completely hate themselves. Like I haven't cried about being fat since I was 8 years old so I wonder if some of these folks have issues with themselves and they just blame it on the fat.... I'm just saying...If you 29 and havent had a date in 9 years maybe your weight is the least of your problems. Lets get real you might have horrible breath, an 'interesting' personality, might be unattractive, have no swagger, don't know your self worth, I can go on and on, but I wont.

Exhibit 3 - Lack of Talent

This is specifically for the dance show, those folks can't dance, and I don't think it has anything to do with them being overweight. Seriously, I've seen better steps from my 3 y/o nephew who doesnt take direction well at all. Now I havent seen the entire show, but the few I've seen made me mad.

How can you have a dance show with people who can't dance? Being a big girl who dances, who learns chroegraphy (from beyonce videos but it still counts), who does her routines in public, the way these folks move for  these minute and 45 second routines bothers me. Another example of the powers that be making fun of fatties.

Ok I will exit my soapbox at this point. I just want the powers to be in television to know that I AM ON TO YOU.....

So let me know, am I wrong, do I need to watch the rest of the show before I blast it, b/c I  just saw like the last hour or so and was not impressed.

Prissi Chic

Is it time to Reinvent yourself?

If you don't like it, change it!

I think we can all stand a bit of reinvention from time to time. People have the tendency to become complacent, settle into the way things are even if they don't like them. I'm challenging each of you to change those things. Break those habits so that you can look in the mirror and see the reflection of the person you truly are meant to be.

When was the last time you received a compliment on your hair?

If it hasn't been in the last 2 weeks change it, the color, the cut, buy a wig, get some bangs, do something different to update your hair so people can't help but stop and take notice.

When was the last time someone noticed your personal style?

If it hasn't been in the last week redefine it. Do you even have a personal style? If not consult with a professional (hopefully me, but if not me someone) and establish one! You need something that's remarkably you, that stands out in a sea of denim, that makes people recognize your inner fabulousity. Go hard or go home when it comes to fashion, make your own rules, forget those of others. Go for it!!!

When was your last act of spontaneity, impulsiveness, selfishness, random act of kindness?

If you can't recall each of them, get up go out and do something, practically anything that won't get you arrested, (although a few things involving hand cuffs can be fun). Splurge on that bag, go nuts in a vintage shop, ask a cute stranger out for coffee, have a conversation with an older person, the thing is to get up, get out, and live....fashionably of course :)

We each should have personal goals and accomplishments we are working towards. However small or large we should be striving for something. The graveyard is filled with unfulfilled potential, we each still have the time left to realize our dreams, to experience new treasures of life, and to continuously reinvent ourselves.

I'm a continuous work in progress, how about you????

Prissi Chic

Graduation Attire

Cause for a celebration!!!!!

I will be graduating tonight. I'm so excited, a bit nervous that I may trip over the stage, but yeah, I'm stoked.

So now the million dollar question. What am I supposed to wear?????

On the one hand do I want to go all traditonal??? I have a killer suit that's itching for wear.

Then again, do I want to let loose and allow my creative being to flourish? Like seriously I gotta wear that robe anyway so I might as well be flyyy...

I'm going out for drinks with friends, and since its an evening graduation I want to be able to just leave the ceremony and head to the restuarant.

Choices, choices, whats a gal to do....

I will post a followup blog with pictures sometime before the weekend.

Again, Congrats to me....

Beauty-The Beast- Its All Relative

Beauty, fashion, art, its all relative on where you happen to be at any given moment in time. I personally have a fascination with ugly things, whether they be accessories, clothing, colors, and yes even men.

I find there is something uniquely beautiful about ugly (in some cases). I know there are many of you who are thinking, this gal is crazy, but just bear with me for a minute. Think about the ugliest color you can imagine, lets just say the wrong shade of mustard or eggplant. A color most would stear clear of, but combine it with some more beautiful pairings and you have an instant hit on your hands. Stylish, unique and practically all your own, because most folks wouldnt have brought that ugly old dress in the first place.

I challenge you all to take a closer look at those things in life most people perceive as 'ugly'. Its at times, in those very things that the rarest of gems are found. It takes a special eye, and a bit of careful insight to be able to locate the "beauty" in ugly, because lets face it some things are just plain ol ugly. With a bit of creativity, know how and precisely positioned arrogance, you too can turn ugly into a masterpiece.

P.S. A friend once told me an ugly man is the ultimate pretty girl accessory, go find you one to compliment that dress, lol.

Welcome

I started this blog for several reasons which are listed here:

I. I love all things fashion! Whether its mainstream, trends,  vintage, couture. Also, I'm heavily vested in Curvy/Plus size fashion, as that is where my heart lies, as well as how I earn my living. So Y not?

II. I want to inspire, create, and empower other plus sized women to be free with fashion. Live life in the clothes that make you feel good and most importantly look fierce. Y not? It's really not that difficult....

III. I love to blog. About my business (styling/personal shopping/online boutique owner), my life, my body, basically anything I'm feeling at the moment. Don't be alarmed things may get thick from time to time, that's just me.

The Internet allows people to give freely of their gifts and talents in an uncomplicated  manner. I'm here to connect with everyone,  my customers, my friends, colleagues, and most importantly YOU!. Y Not?