Last week I posed a question to the Styling Curvy community on my Facebook page (HERE), “Do you feel fairly represented by your favourite fashion labels?” Do you see mannequins that represent your shape, sales assistants you can relate to, images in advertising that’s relatable? What would you like to see more of? HA. Ok that’s more than one question.
I asked the question because I was hi fiving myself at signing off on a campaign with a national plus size label. I’m forty five, fat and have thinning hair, chin hair and boobs made from my back…so I chalked it up as a win. It made me wonder though, what is it that you actually want?
Well, you ladies spoke up and after digesting all the replies I decided to reply, in a blogpost.
HERE’S WHAT YOU SAID
Ladies, you are frustrated! Frustrated consumers of fashion. I get it and I don’t blame you.
Things aren’t like they used to be. The state of sizing in Australia is confusing. With online shopping changing the face of the way we shop there’s things you need to know to assist you with a successful online shop.
Then there’s us, the consumer…we want more! We call bullshit more and demand more…often for less.
When I read through the comments my heart hurt for the women in Australia and for the designers and retailers. Let’s make this fair, we can’t come down hard ‘n heavy on our designers and retailers every time we feel frustrated in a change room.
‘We’ need to be accountable too. We need to take ownership of our style and steer our own shopping experience a little more too. I bet you weren’t expecting that huh?
HERES WHAT YOU WANT, Let’s break it down…
CONSISTENT SIZING
I freakin hear ya on this one. The reality is there is NO standard sizing in Australia anymore. The shape and size of women has changed dramatically over the decades (I know mine has) and then there’s what’s known as ‘aspiration sizing’. This is where some labels will size down to make shoppers feel better about themselves. A stroke for the ego but geez, no wonder we are confused.
Sizing can differ (even in the same label) for many reasons, like fabric composition, dyes, cutters or even a change of manufacturer. This is why WE need to be prepared ladies. Know your measurements, let go of ‘sizing expectation’, get over it and size up if needed, try on several sizes and wear what fits and feels right.
If shopping online then read the text provided. Online stores are doing amazing things for shoppers but we sometimes don’t take the time to ensure we have a great shopping outcome.
-Look at the size guide.
-Know your measurements.
-when shopping offshore I advise sizing up.
-Read reviews.
-Take note of the height and size of model and what size garment she is wearing and ask questions. You can send a message on social media to labels or email them. They are more than happy to assist you. YOU hold the power.
MORE ON TREND STYLES AND LESS DAGGY BAGGY
Some of you voiced loudly in regard to hideous prints and dull colours and then there was the disdain for baggy and boxy styles.
Oh yes I hear ya. Having been everything up to a size 24 I hated the garish prints, unflattering prints and poorly placed prints. Not all body shapes and personalities suit prints either.
Shapeless and baggy garments are old hat, they really don’t belong in mainstream fashion. We want curves, shape, length where it’s needed, on trend design features and clothes that fit.
I want designers to consider a woman’s body, really consider it and to consider how they want women to feel in their garment.
Guess what ladies? We actually do have this in Australian plus size fashion 🙂
Yup, you need to be informed, maybe ask more questions and dig a little harder but we do have some freakin fabulous designers in Australia consistently producing on trend lines.
Some work two jobs, mortgage their house and burn the candle at both ends to bring you exciting fashion each season, because they are passionate and believe that all women should look and feel fabulous.
When I choose my clothes I don’t shop at just one store, my outfit is rarely made up from just one label. I have an open mind when shopping, a piece from here, another from there and not all are plus size I also need to be creative, but if the truth was told so do most women. I know very thin women, short, tall and athletic women and they don’t get an easy ride when it comes to fashion and personal style.
Manufacturers can not (ever) cater to everyone. Women need to be creative and find their personal style.
There is sometimes so much choice that it can be difficult to decipher and feel overwhelming. Where do we look? Who has what we are after? Are we after a one stop shop easy option? Well are you? It just doesn’t exist ladies.
LOWER PRICES
Don’t we all want that? ALL Aussie women no matter their size would like lower prices. Ladies there’s good and bad at all price ranges but it’s up to us to filter through the crap, share our wins and speak with our feet. Quality product costs, end of story.
SIZE APPROPRIATE MANNEQUINS
This is something that has started to change in retail but not consistently. I believe if you are a retailer who is stocking larger sizes then for goodness sake spend the money and invest in a larger mannequin, I can guarantee it will pay off because women WILL relate.
No more clips and pins cinching in plus clothing on regular size mannequins, we are not fooled…just insulted and sometimes even hurt.
RELATABLE SALES ASSISTANTS
Retail ain’t what it used to be, the training and mentoring just isn’t there for most retail assistants (not all) any more. Careers are transient and if businesses don’t actively aim to retain staff through training, reward and other incentives then we, the consumers will continue to feel under-serviced and undervalued
It works both ways though ladies. Please get to know your retail staff at your favourite stores. Give them a smile, ask how their day is going, ask for advice because they are there for you and if you continue to allow them to give you zero service then that is exactly what they will think women want.
Put your hand up to go on the VIP list and be kept in the loop, enquire about new arrivals or ask them to demonstrate how to put some pieces together, I’m sure they would love to help. Of course if they don’t want to help and you feel invisible and your shopping experience is less than pleasant then talk with your feet…shop elsewhere.
Let’s not judge a book by its cover though, retail assistants come in all shapes, sizes and ages. Their hair could be platinum, mousey, pink, purple, blue or even natural grey. They all have their own story and experiences and just because at first glance they might not be fat enough/skinny enough/ young enough/ old enough/, give them a chance. We all want that in life right?
CHOICE IN LENGTHS
This was a big one! Lots of you are frustrated with pants that are either too short or too long. You’ve had it with shirt sleeves that hang down past your palms or don’t quite reach your wrists.
Some label’s can definitely do better in this department but stocking every style in multiple lengths is just not feasible financially for most labels. We don’t see straight sizes in multiple lengths and fits (OK, sometimes we do, but we sometimes see it in plus too), so ladies find yourself someone who knows their way around a Janome.
A good alterations lady is someone everyone needs to have on their side. Custom fit and ‘slightly tweaked’ garments will always sit better and feel better than a bad mood from a poor fitting or ‘not quite right’ garment. Factor the cost of a little alteration into your purchase, it’s either worth it or it isn’t.
CLOTHES TO FIT YOUR SHAPE
Quite a few you were vocal about better fitting garments and clothes to fit your shape. Here’s the truth ladies…NOT ALL STYLES WILL SUIT YOU. Uhuh, I know, harsh but true.There really is no point trying to fit a square peg in a round hole, and this is exactly the same for personal style.
It’s up to you to know your shape, understand how things like your height and bust size will alter a garment. Read up, Google, attend a workshop, hire a stylist or follow bloggers with a similar body shape to you and you will feel empowered in no time.
I’m not saying you can’t wear whatever the heck you want to go for it, I’m saying that we are all unique, and we will not all fit into or suit all styles.
Personally I love lots of styles and colours that don’t love me, I fall hard for them but, I’m informed and educated and show restraint. When I see those styles and colours that I know don’t work for my beautiful unique body I keep on walking. I flip the page of the magazine. I hover my mouse over something else.
Admire it and move on!
MORE INTEGRATIVE VISUAL MERCHANDISING & RELATABLE MODELS
This is my biggest gripe with plus size retail in Australia. My heart aches when I see plus size poorly merchandised, it’s akin to telling larger women that they just don’t matter. Department stores are the worst for this and here in Adelaide I’ve seen some atrocious merchandising.
I do have confidence. I do feel good about my body. I am a stylist so I know a thing or two about how to put an outfit together. BUT, I feel for women who don’t have any or all of that. Women who are broken, ashamed, nervous, lacking confidence, time poor or on a budget. Women who will feel overwhelmed and frustrated by poor merchandising.
Merchandising should be exciting, inviting, easy to decipher and it should tell a story.
In some stores visual merchandising is seriously lacking, non existent even. I would love to see plus size clothing integrated within stores and not in dark corners or dead spots of stores. I don’t want to see racks of black clothing with no effort put into creating relatable, on trend displays.
I want to see accessories integrated into visual merchandising and brands clearly displayed. I want to see good lighting, tidy racks and beautiful changerooms.
Listen up retailers, if you show us ‘how’, treat us ‘like we matter’ and are ‘inclusive’ we. will. spend.
Oh yes, we have money and we will make a beeline for your store or your label…and we. will. support. you!
You want to see relatable models in the images. Models with bigger arms, soft bellies, thighs that kiss, ample bosom, different heights and of course women of all ages.
Style has no expiry. Women’s desire for stylish clothing does not extinguish when they blow out a candle at a certain age.
Show me women with short hair, shaved hair, long hair, curly hair, grey hair, women like me and you.
And I guess that’s what we all really want across the board, we want to be seen, feel included and accepted and we want to dress like our authentic selves.
Plus size fashion in Australia has come a long way, there are most definitely trailblazers and labels accommodating for those of us who want style at any size. We are doing good things but we could do better, on both sides.
As consumers we need to shop around, get informed, hire help, let go of outdated ideals like sizing labels and finding everything in one place. We need to tweak a garment to suit our shape and personality.
We need to support the labels that are supporting us.
We need to raise our voice (politely) and ask for what we want.
Retailers, please listen to us. See us. Ask us what we want more of, stock some more colour, on trend, fashion forward and better fitting pieces. Invest in quality, vibrant visual merchandising and use models we can really relate to.
Don’t try to do it ALL, do some of it but do it bloody well and we will find the rest somewhere else.
Somewhere where others are also doing what they do…bloody well.
If you are all doing ‘some’ of what we want and nailing it, then heck we have half a chance. We will nail getting dressed each day and we will continue to support you!
You’ve told me on my Facebook page what you don’t like in plus size, I would really love to hear about stores and labels you love, the ones ‘who are’ nailing it.
Of course, feel free to add whatever you like to the discussion, just be respectful and constructive as labels I collaborate with will read this and together we can all learn more.
How did I do? Did I cover your concerns? Do you feel heard? Do you think differently after reading this?
Til next time,
Jen x
Julie says
June 20, 2016 at 9:56 pmHi Jen – great article from start to finish! You nailed it in one. Personally I find following bloggers like yourself a massive help – I am buying from heaps of different retailers thanks to you! Jx
Jenni says
June 20, 2016 at 11:06 pmMusic to my ears Julie, that’s why I do what I do…helping ladies find their way x
Juls says
June 20, 2016 at 10:08 pmGreat article, very on point. My friend Ange and I run a market on Brisbanes North Side called FAB 14 Plus Markets and the purpose of these markets is for stall holders to sell their pre loved plus size fashion. We have so many ladies selling clothes with tags still on them due to not being able to wear them due to some of the above reasons you mention. We also feel as we pay so much for our clothing to be able to sell them to make money back and buy more clothes is great. We find the markets a positive experience for those of us who are curvy as we are all their with the same want and need and that is to be comfortable, not judged and know we can fit into a range of items for sale on the day.
Jenni says
June 20, 2016 at 11:07 pmA great initiative that gives women more options, well done.
Hazel says
June 20, 2016 at 10:15 pmGreat article Jenni, you really are a gem.
Jenni says
June 20, 2016 at 11:08 pmYou make me smile, thanks Hazel x
Kimberley says
June 20, 2016 at 10:30 pmGreat article Jen! Thank you for mentioning my length issues (ie pants NEVER long enough)… if only tailors were magicians than could magically lengthen…. maybe decent hems on things is a key…. a 1.5cm hem doesnt give me much to work with.
I like that you’re trying to change the face of fashion in Australia. Thank you.
Jenni says
June 20, 2016 at 11:08 pmThanks Kimberley, I’ve seen some seamstresses do some pretty nifty stuff 🙂
Anita Mclachlan says
June 20, 2016 at 10:48 pmHey Jen. Great article! I agree with Julie…you nailed it from start to finish. You are sooooo right, we all have a part to play. As an online retailer, I want to know what I can do to help to do better. Finding great gear to sell is challenging for me too so if there are labels that offer fab relaxed summer vibe gear…I’m all ears:) And service is everything! If we can’t help someone feel fabulous with a new cossie or cover-up, why bother existing at all? Ask away we say! Together we’ll work it out. Well done. Ax
Jenni says
June 20, 2016 at 11:13 pmThankyou Anita. As you know I work closely with labels and stores that I collaborate with (like yours) and of course I listen just as closely to my community and the frustrations on both sides are real. I sure hope that both retailers and customers can work together and make the future of plus size fashion in Australia bigger, brighter and better xx
Caitlin | Twist of Cait says
June 20, 2016 at 10:50 pmWell said Jen (and ladies who contributed) Im such a sucker for some good Merchandising, gets me every time!
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 1:01 amIt makes a big difference Caitlyn, for the customer and the retailer.
Milena says
June 21, 2016 at 12:28 amGreat article Jen. I agree with your comments about Australian department stores. I can go online to Saks or Bloomingdales etc and there are hundreds of quality plus size items. If it wasn’t for online shopping and people like you on social media I would have no idea that labels like 17 Sundays,’Harlow, Adrift, Ruby and Lilli etc existed and I would be extremely depressed about my wardrobe! Well done and thank you!
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 1:03 amMilena Thankyou, I just love sharing with you all. I also love discovering new labels and am finding them everyday x
Max says
June 21, 2016 at 12:29 amAt a size 24, how the hell do you have a favourite store? I am that, I don’t have any store I would call a favourite, I’m just grateful that every now and then I can walk into a random place like Myers and find they may actual have something that fits, isn’t too expensive and is nice. What store ? I’d like summer tops with sleeves to my elbow. Anything less just doesn’t work for me and short short sleeves is all you can get.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 12:59 amHi Max, thanks for reading and I hope you gained something positive from my post.
I believe we can all have a favourite store. It may not serve up everything we want in one place but we can form relationships with staff that make us feel safe and nurtured while we shop.
When I was a size 24 I really like MYER for labels like Mink denim, piper and estelle. I also shopped at plenty of other stores as I have done all my life.
If I was looking for longer sleeves I would look to batwing styles, kaftan styles and layering. There’s also the option of having tops made, if you have a favourite them have several made.
I’m a child of the 70’s and mothers of that era were always making clothes, partly because of finances but I’m also sure because they were frustrated too at not being able to purchase what they needed.
Jan Wild says
June 21, 2016 at 6:20 amYes all of the above and for those of us who are not so young any more, I also don’t want to also see clothes on models who are in their teens. How about the occasional woman in her 50s or 60s. We too are out there, we care about how we look and we have the money to spend, Encourage us to do so!
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 7:22 amAbsolutely’! A women’s desire for great clothes and her own personal style does not extinguish just because she celebrates a milestone birthday.
Lyn says
June 21, 2016 at 6:46 amLots to think about in your great article. I have items ranging from size 14 to 20 as I have learnt, as my weight crept up, to try on what looks right regardless of the marked size. By following bloggers such as yourself, I have a much greater appreciation of what suits my shape and lifestyle, and more importantly, what is not for me no matter how good a bargain. I appreciate the effort Millers are making to have relatable models – real women with real stories and a range of shapes. In their price range, I accept that fit and finish have to be checked by the customer. I wish the same didn’t apply when I venture to shops that charge twice as much (or more). Keep up the great work, Jen.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 7:26 amLyn I love your appreciation and you nailed it…walk away from what doesn’t suit you no matter how good the ‘sale’ tag is. It’s only a bargain if it makes us look and feel good, if it hangs in the wardrobe unworn and taunting us it’s just a bad purchase.
Helen says
June 21, 2016 at 6:55 amThanks for a great article.,as a rural lady who rarely gets to town I find shopping in Rundle Mall so depressing. Marketing to my size would be so welcome so I don’t walk around feeling lost. Colours and patterns are also a gripe of mine. I want to feel bright. At least my feet can feel well dressed.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 7:28 amI can’t imagine how frustrated rural ladies must be. I often find smaller boutiques have the best finds.
Dale Grobler says
June 21, 2016 at 7:10 amHI
I think City Chic are doing a fabulous job! Something for everyone and some very modern, up to date and with it styles! I don’t get there very often but when I do I love my shopping experience. The ladies in the Toowoomba store especially are fantastic!
Thanks girls!
Jen you are doing a fabulous job!
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 7:29 amI find that city chic can run hot and cold Dale but lately I’ve been purchasing quite a few pieces. You’re right, the staff are fabulous there.
Michelle says
June 21, 2016 at 7:17 amYou covered everything Jen!
I have purchased more clothes online thanks to you! You are so correct when you write that you must check the sizing for each particular label. I love bohemian traders as they have great clothes and larger sizing. We all need to keep working together so that everyone will be comfortable, feel great and look fabulous.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 7:30 amMichelle it’s wonderful that you are enjoying clothes.
JaNe mAgor says
June 21, 2016 at 7:49 amWell written straight to the point and too. My favourite brands are Seed, Ruby and Lilli I guess working at a department store I receive a lovely discount at Seed. My sizes do vary in my wardrobe and yes most definetly not everything fits or suits my body shape… That’s why I love your page as you give so many styling tips even if I’m too small for some plus sizes I can still style it the same with your ideas.. Thanks for this blog it was what is girls all needed xxx
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 9:20 amI love that you love to learn Jane and watch your favourite stylists/bloggers and implement their tips to suit your lifestyle/budget/size/shape…well done lovely xx
kp says
June 21, 2016 at 9:07 amThank you Jen,
For taking the time put this thoughtful & insightful blog post together.
I’m going to go out on a limb and say it’s the best piece I have read about plus fashion EVER.
A breath of fresh air to read an article that isn’t all about brand bashing because I sadly read these on a daily basis & they help no-one. It covers all the bases, from the fashionista, to the retailer, the designer and the manufacturing processes & limitations. Giving us all ideas on how we can help, most brands/designers are happy to hear straight from the customer with constructive criticism and feedback, on style, fit and quality, especially if you have purchased that item and are NOT happy, this kind of feedback helps us do better next time. We also love getting positive feedback, it really does make our hearts sing and sunshiny beams come from our eyes, maybe even few spring rain drops, may fall in knowing we got it right.
As you know we started our brand because I am my customer & I couldn’t find items that reflected my personality – I am also fat and closer to 50 but it doesn’t mean I need to hide. Our biggest aim is to help women feel amazing, we want women to find clothing that makes them feel fabulous, to be able to find fashion that fits them & reflects their personality. We don’t get it right all the time, but we damn well try. Our brand will not suit everyone, either in fit/style or price, but we are another option for those women sized 12-24 and more and more options are available everyday.
You are an asset to your community, you show us how to feel strong and look amazing in the skin we are in today! No waiting for tomorrow & that is priceless.
Once again thank you for being our voice
Kerry
xXx
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 9:25 amKerry, thankyou.
Thankyou for your contribution to Australian fashion and Plus size fashion.
Thankyou for trying even when you feel deflated and defeated.
Thankyou for working with bloggers like me, for looking after your customers with great service and championing women.
Thankyou most of all for your friendship. x
kp says
June 21, 2016 at 9:29 amRight back at ya lovely, there go those spring tears again 🙂
Linden says
June 21, 2016 at 1:32 pmI’d like to add (if it hasn’t already?!?), That I personally dislike the condescending brand names i.e. using the words curvy, big, woman, plus etc.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 3:51 pmIm curious as to why you find them condescending?
My business is ‘Styling ‘Curvy’ because that’s what I am.
Personally the terms don’t bother me at all, in fact with social media I can search the terms and be connected to exactly what I’m after I’m a flash.
Linden says
June 21, 2016 at 5:12 pmI guess because being bigger has always defined everything about me, I’ve been treated differently because of it. And I don’t like it. labels on clothes is just another way that I’m set apart from the ‘rest’ of women. I’m also in my 20s (just) & these brand names have always turned me off or I’ve associated it with “older” ladies clothes. City chic dropped the “big” from their label some time ago, I’m not sure whether that has contributed to their rise in popularity. Im not sure really exactly why I don’t like it but when I see these labels on clothes I cringe. But take 17 Sundays, I think it sounds really cool & I feel happier about what I’m buying.
Linden says
June 21, 2016 at 5:14 pmNaming your blog with these terms I don’t mind, call it what you like. But with clothes I do. My friends have discussed this too & we have the same feelings.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 10:54 pmI get your point Linden.
Bec says
June 21, 2016 at 2:54 pmNail on the head Jen! I shop online from overseas far more than I do local retailers. Brands like Eloquii, Modcloth, Old Navy, Gap, Lucky Brand, Talbots and even Torrid all do on trend plus size fashion. When a local retailer throws us a bone I snap it up! I don’t want to have to pay for international shipping but I also can’t afford $200 for one item from a local designer. Since following your blog I’ve discovered 17 Sunday’s and love what I’ve bought so far. I want to buy some Bohemian Traders but their larger sizes always sell out! Adrift do gorgeous items in all sizes and their customer service is fantastic.
Lastly lengths!!! I can buy short length jeans and pants from overseas so why can’t I get them here? My alterations lady is great but the cost of hemming etc drives up the price of the item. May as wel buy the ready to wear pair from overseas.
Thanks for keeping me inspired Jen!
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 10:59 pmThat’s fantastic that you are trying new labels. My tip for you is when a label has sold out of an item email them and voice that you would like to see more…sometimes they will do another run.
Erica says
June 21, 2016 at 4:12 pmI want colour. Black is not a colour. I want pretty.
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 10:57 pmMe too! I wear more black in winter but I LOVE colour! Not circus colours that scream ‘fat clothes’ but colours that complement my skin, hair and eyes. I also want the same on trend season colours. We will always have black (which I do like) but more colour would be ace x
Mel says
June 21, 2016 at 8:28 pmMy most frustrating part of shopping for plus size for me is the lack of thick winter clothes. I feel like the message is if you are fat you don’t get cold! And I can tell you that’s not true in Melbourne! Also the lack of thicker windcheaters/sweat tops & tracksuit pants is frustrating. Target is crappy quality, sportscraft is so expensive for a tracksuit. Wish there was something in betweenb& warm! Thanks for writing this great article!
Jenni says
June 21, 2016 at 10:58 pmMel I love layering and being menopausal I also need to strip these layers too LOL
Beth at AlmostPosh.com says
June 22, 2016 at 11:57 amThis is such a good article, Jenni, and really voices and reflects the issues and frustrations with sizing in general, not just plus sizes. I need brands to recognise that a smaller frame doesn’t mean a flatter chest and that pants in a variety of lengths should be MANDATORY! I’d love to see more online retailers giving more specific detail around fit and fabric or some kind of browser extension that I can one-off plug my measurements into (because I have literally no idea what they are) and let it tell me when I’m lookng at any website how it will fit.
Jenni says
June 22, 2016 at 11:58 pmWhat a great idea Beth, let’s hope online shopping does integrate a tool like that real soon. Yes, spot on with sizing and fit frustrations across ALL sizes. Women are not all built the same x
Nadia says
June 22, 2016 at 8:02 pmFabulous article Jen. I love that that you not only ask the questions but also listen. Also a timely reminder for me to do my measurements! They are key.
Jenni says
June 22, 2016 at 11:59 pmThanks so much Nadia and yes to online measurements and knowing our own measurements.
Shan@fortyup says
June 23, 2016 at 11:50 amI’m not a plus size chick, but even I find this post relatable on so many levels. I particularly love shopping at Picnic Clothing here in Perth because the sales girls are all size & shapes & all ages I might add. They make me comfortable, this is a career for them & they obviously love where they work! There is also a Dotti store close to me who has a very cool lady about my age who’s working there most week days when I pop in. I love seeing that! She’s still wearing Dotti gear but it works for her – & so it should! Personally I’d love to work at Sportsgirl – I just don’t think they would hire someone in my age demographic! Wah! xx
Jenni says
June 24, 2016 at 6:47 pmShannon I could totally see you at sportsgirl, and you’re right there are challenges across all sizes in fashion.
Jane dowsEtt says
June 24, 2016 at 6:11 pmJen,
I met you for the first time today and boy you were right, l sure needed to read your article . We were at a tipping point in plus size fashion in Australia and there is so much more that we can do. Sometimes it is so so right – great product , great price and sometimes it’s a not so great. As long as we ( as retailers) listen to our customers take on board the feedback and continue to try new styles we can only get better as an industry. Superb article.
Jenni says
June 24, 2016 at 6:48 pmThankyou Jane, I loved meeting you today and you totally have your finger on the pulse. Great changes and growth ahead xx
Mandy says
August 14, 2016 at 10:46 pmIf it’s been said I apologise for missing it but PLEASE can we have more natural fibres!??!
I have some serious health issues and lots of medications that make me run a little hot but I’m sure I’m not the only woman who feels suffocated in plastic clothing. A few Australian plus size companies seem to do nothing but and its so frustrating because although their brand may not be for me at least they are trying with their styling ( I’m looking at you City Chic and TS )
I do understand cotton silk linen wool etc will cost me more but I’m willing to pay it rather than suffer through wearing an item once and then shudder every time I see it in my wardrobe.
Jenni says
August 24, 2016 at 8:51 amI totally hear you on this one.
Maria says
December 10, 2016 at 2:36 pmHi Jen great article you posted. Being a plus myself I’ve often had a lot of trouble finding what suits my pear shaped body. In the ‘old’ days (like the 90’s) my cousin who’s also a plus and a great sewer used to make our own clothes. There was NOTHING around. Yep, the old fashioned way. We loved colour and we loved our sleeves too as we didn’t and still don’t like to show our arms. But I’m happy to say now that we don’t have to make our own clothes anymore as more and more retailers are starting to realise that we of the voluptuous stature want to just go and buy the damn thing. ? In the last few weeks we were both lucky enough to be employed by one such retailer (not sure if I’m alllowed to mention their name), oh bummer I will anyway ?Taking Shape or TS14+. They cater for all body shapes and start at size 12-24! Ok, not everyone is going to like their clothes by I have to say they’re a good starting point for anyone who wants a few basic pieces. Keep up the good work Jen. ?
Jo Rayment says
December 10, 2016 at 3:54 pmHi Jenni
Ive recently discovered Motto fashion and now Im addicted! They have great clothes with longer tops and stretchy pants that are really stylish hide all the lumpy bits and always look great! I find with my apple shape lots of tops are way too short and there vis nothing worse than your pants and your top having a big gap where your tummy pokes out! Love seeing your outfits Jenni I now wear things ive avoided in the past after seeing how you style them1 thanks! jo