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Get a deal on Plus Size clothing. Plus size clothing is big business. This year, gross profits are estimated at billion. Shopping for fashionable plus size clothing is better than ever. Today, more and more US retailers are offering more clothing option and styles. Also, the Internet now offers women many high end and original plus size clothing and accessory deals.

Shopping on the internet can offer you a great selection of plus size clothing. It is nice to shop from the comfort and privacy of your own home. Despite where you choose to shop, think about these tips to help you get the best deals on purchasing plus size clothing.

Tip #1: You should start the shopping process by planning what you will buy. Make a written list of what you will buy. Most of us are on a budget and by having a list you are more likely to stay focused on the things you really need.

Tip #2: Wait until the end of the retail season to buy clothing. Since retail seasons usually end 6-8 weeks before the calendar season, you will still have time to wear your new clothing, and you’ll save money as well. At the end of the season, retailers often mark down clothing drastically, sometimes letting you save as much as 90% off the sticker price.

Tip #3: great plus size clothing deals are available at your neighborhood thrift shop. It often pays to check back at these stores frequently since new items are quickly added to the inventory. If you don’t initially find something you like return often. When you find an item you love, it would be best to purchase it that day since it may not be there when you next visit. In short, frequent visits to thrift stores can yield great savings.

Tip #4: Try shopping the consignment shops when searching for plus size outfits. Plus size clothes that you find in a consignment shop will generally be nearly new or only gently used. And best of all, you will find the best deals in town there! With a keen eye, you can find pricey designer labels and very expensive business suits and dress at a spectacular discount.

Consider shopping at wholesale outlet centers. Plus size outlet stores usually carry the same brand names or similarly styled clothes as the popular retail stores, but often at a quarter of the cost.

Tip #6: Shop the clearance racks of your favorite plus size clothing store. Keep an eye out in newspapers and on TV for store sales, clearances, close-outs, etc.

Tip #7: Online shopping is another great way to find terrific deals on plus size clothing. Go to web sites that specialize in plus size clothing and subscribe to their free newsletters; they’ll typically give you an inside track for private sales and specials available only to members. Often you can find unique designs on websites that aren’t available anywhere else. Many of these sites provide frequent buyer benefits and free shipping.

Tip #8: Last, but not least, request catalogs from your favorite plus size stores and take advantage of year-round sales and discount deals.

Though shopping for plus-size clothing can be very expensive, if you follow these simple shopping tips, you may be able to save more than 40 percent on your clothing budget.

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Supplying the gold miners over a hundred years ago, Levi Strauss began their wholesale business by making blue jeans that were tough and hard to wear out. Now blue jeans have become the world’s most popular piece of clothing because of their comfort and adaptability.

You can get the best deals on hanbags and wallets to go with your plus size jeans  at  http://www.handbagsandwalletsonline.com where you can even find information on Isabella Fiore Handbags !

Plus-sized people agree that shopping can be extremely difficult. Finding a stylish yet comfortable pair of jeans is a rarity. The majority of jeans either hug your legs too tightly or cut into the waist or stomach. Locating the right pair of jeans for your body type can add the illusion of longer legs and smaller hips.

Since many plus size jeans are now made from a type of material that stretches, or gives a bit, the first thing to consider when buying a pair of jeans is their stretch. This fabric, made from a combination of cotton, polyester, and spandex, stretches only when and where you need it, providing ultimate comfort while improving your figure. The longer you wear stretch jeans throughout the day, the more they will stretch and keep you comfortable.

Plus size jeans that have the “Mid-rise” qualities are the next things to look for. While “low-rise” jeans look good if you have no curves, people with bigger waists, hips or thighs should stay away from low-rise clothes. Even though many of the styles available are low-cut, these types of jeans do not take into account that extra fat may be pushed above the waistband and calling attention to the midriff area. The majority of people who have worn low-rise jeans have found them to be quite uncomfortable.

Classic cut jeans (called mid-rise cut jeans) are much more appealing and attractive and will help you stay stylish while allowing you to stay covered and comfortable. Classic cut jeans sit just below the waist and have a straight leg from the hip all the way down to the floor. This will give a plus size woman’s body a long, lean look.

Extra features such as excessive embroidery, stitching, fading or a multitude of pockets should be avoided when buying plus-sized jeans. Instead, opt for solid-colored dark jeans that can be coordinated with tee shirts, dress shirts or sweaters.

Individuals who are plus size, need a wider pant leg to balance out their body. Choose a classic five-pocket design in a dark shade.

Jeans are a very versatile wardrobe option. They can be dressed up, down, worn with any footwear including high heels. Jeans can even provide people with plus size with plenty of wardrobe options because of the variety of colors and fabrics.

Seek stretch fabric and rise quality when shopping for those extra size jeans. Found the perfect fit for those jeans, well why not spent a few extra dollars and buy a second pair while you are at it? That perfect fit will have you looking and feeling great.

During the sunnier months, the last thing a woman wants to do is to worry about what bathing suit to wear.After all, why should it be that all the skinny girls have all the fun on the beach?Regular sized women have just as much right to look fabulous but at the same time don't want to cram themselves into a swimsuit that it is too small.  It is no wonder that women think that it can be difficult to buy plus size swimwear that looks good.

Timing is key and you shouldn't wait until the very last minute to go shopping for your swimsuit.  Shops can only stock a limited supply of swimsuits for the plus-sized woman and you wont be alone in wanting to make that purchase.Try to shop in the middle of the week when you can really take your time and avoid the crowds.

Fit is very important as you don't want a swimsuit that will be too tight.  When trying on a potential swimsuit make sure you test it out by doing a few twists, bends and stretches to see how if it feels comfortable and stays in place.

Your bathing suit should have plenty of control and support so it is important that you choose a suit that offers both tummy control and a supportive underwire for your breasts.Swimsuits with more lycra or spandex tend to offer better support and flexibility.

You can take the focus away from your stomach and place it on your breasts by wearing a flattering once piece swimsuit that complements your best assets.Two piece swimsuits may not be yo everyone's taste, however if you insist on wearing one do ensure that it covers up your stomach.A long halter top combined with a matching bikini bottom should provide a flattering combination.

Hopefully we have shown you that buying pretty swimwear isn't the difficult task you thought it was!

I cannot believe that it is already that time again. Time to transition your summer wardrobe into Fall mode. The magazines are already hitting the stands  with big bold text Fall Fashion Preview, The Best of Fall Fashion, and Top 10 Trends for Fall, but are you ready? The weather outside is definitely telling me that I am not ready, how about you? Believe me, as much as I want to jump into this transition period with 2 feet and enjoy the new Fall trends I just can’t stand to put on the layers and sweat to death. So I did some research and found some great tips and trends that will make this transition from summer to fall as easy as possible.

The transition from summer to fall can make figuring out what to wear pretty hard. We wonder if we can still wear shorts? What about tank tops? and how can we make my favorite summer skirt wearable this season? These are all logical questions during this transition period and I hope to answer some of them.

Layering is a HUGE trend for Fall so as we move into this late summer/early fall transition period the idea is to take some of your more classic summer looks and layer them with more substantial Fall pieces like light weight cardigans, sweaters, and belts. Layering is a simple way to ease into Fall mode during this time and is definitely lighter on the pocket book. Here are a few tips on how to transition some of your “fav” summer looks into new fabulous fall looks.

Let’s start with the ever so popular plus size vest and trouser summer work wear look that we have seen everywhere. For the late summer/early fall transition period try switching the vest out and adding a light weight cardigan over a classic collared shirt. Add a pair of spectator pumps and you are fall-fabulous.

For your favorite plus size summer skirt (plaid is big for fall) and blouse look, try layering the top with a light weight cardigan and some opaque tights. These pieces will instantly turn this summer look into fall. Throw in a patent leather handbag in a darker color and you are ready to go.

How about the basic plus size Khaki pant and blouse look? For this look try adding a solid color light weight v-neck sweater over the blouse and add some chunky large bangles to spice it up.

Lastly we have the “fav” plus size summer dress. With this look you want to layer it with a longer style cardigan and add a stylish waist belt. Throw on some boots or some bright colored patent leather heels and you are set.

During these hard economic times we all want plus size items in our wardrobe that give us a certain amount of bang for our buck. So when shopping, always choose more classic and less trendy pieces for your wardrobe. In turn you will extend the value of your clothing and they will do double-duty and easily transition into great looks for the following season.

Recently our team at SWAK Designs had an opportunity to take part in an amazing historical event. Our owner Brad Capo sent Rhasaan Perry (VP of Sales/Merchandising) and myself to New York City to participate in the first ever Full Figured Fashion Week produced by Gwen DeVoe CEO of DeVoe Signature Events (DSE) on Thursday June 25 until Saturday June 27, 2009. This event showcased the latest in plus size fashion as well as brought the plus size community together in hope to change the way retailers think of plus size consumers and plus size fashion in the industry today. For those of you who keep up with us and read our weekly articles and blog, you know that we had announced this exciting event and its schedule a few weeks ago urging anyone who is into plus size fashion and the latest trends to attend. So, hopefully you did not miss out on the festivities and were able to attend. If not, you are in luck because I have the details of how it all went down.

The FFFWeek events started on Thursday June 25th with an amazing shopping soiree at Re/Dress boutique in Brooklyn. This event was to welcome all of the out of town guests while they had the opportunity to enjoy premium shopping. Together with Pockets and Purses with a Purposes Tracey V. Bell (Chairman and President, PPWAP) and Kim Coles (Global Spokesperson, PPWAP) customers shopped vintage plus size clothing and were given the opportunity to donate their lightly used purses and wallets for the foundation which later will be bundled with personal care products and counseling services for women/children in Domestic Violence Shelters.

Later that evening they had a designers showcase and networking event with a plus size fashion show which took place at Club Blvd. The fashion show featured fabulous new designs by Ashley Stewart and en.v. New York by designer Just Raymona. Unfortunately, due to our work schedule here at SWAK Designs our team had to miss out on Thursday’s events but by all the pictures out there, the event looks to have been a success for all involved.

The following day we spent the morning fitting some of our beautiful plus size models that were going to be wearing our fashions in the finale runway show. After that we made our debut at the FFFWeek Buyers Market. This sales event was put together to help connect the attending plus size fashion buyers and boutique owners with participating FFFWeek designers and suppliers. This was a great business networking opportunity for us as an on-line retailer and wholesaler. It helped open some new doors and create some great opportunities for us as well as meet some amazing buyers and boutique owners in the plus size industry.

During this time the “The State of the Curvy Community” panel discussion began at another location with moderator Sharon Quinn. This panel discussion addressed the current state of the plus size community and the significance of Full Figured Fashion Week, through the eyes of some of the industry’s leaders, bringing different perspectives from various experiences and points of views from all attendees. Since we were participating in the Buyers Market at that time we were unable to attend the panel discussion, but from what I heard it was an extremely powerful, positive, and uplifting discussion.

Later that night we attended the Media Reception/Press Party at the Taj Lounge which was a blast. It was great to meet and network with such a variety of professionals from media, designers, and models. The night went on at the Sage Theatre without us at the Full Figured Friday mini-concert hosted by Queen Aishah who is a comedian, actress, radio personality, and philanthropist. The venue had performances by Queen Aishah, Crystal P. (Detroit’s new Queen of Comedy) and The Glamazons, the fierce foursome plus size pop group whose mission is to show the world that talent comes in all sizes. After the Media Reception was the FFFWeek Friday Night Dance Party at the Stitch Lounge. This was an opportunity for all attendees to dance, mingle, eat, and celebrate FFFWeek and all of the events.

Saturday the final day was also filled with exciting events from morning to night. They began the day with a Small Business Workshop which taught attendees how to market their business or organization online using social networking. After that was the Curves in the City Shopping Soiree which was open to the public and had discount shopping with participating FFFWeek designers and vendors. Unfortunately, Rhasaan and I were unable to attend either event as we were doing final fittings with our models and preparing our collections for the finale runway show.

Then finally that evening was what we all had been anticipating…..the Finale Runway Showcase at The Prince George Ballroom. It was a semi-formal, finale designer showcase featuring the collections from Agape Goddess Wear, Ashley Stewart, Big Girls United (BGU), Candi Apple Couture, Jewel Shannon Designs, LaMaica Fashions, Monif C., Osun Design, Qristyl Frazier Designs, Robert E. Knight, and yours truly Sealed With a Kiss Designs. The show was incredible and the designs were amazing. It was really hard to choose but I would have to say that the designs by BGU and Qristyl Frazier were my absolute favorites in the show besides our collection of course. When it was time for our designs to hit the runway we were dressing and fixing our models as fast as we could to get them perfect before they stepped out on the runway. It was so interesting to be on the other side of a runway show this time around, not participating as a model but as a representative of a clothing line. I was feeling such a different type of nervousness that I’ve never felt before. Although Rhasaan and I were battling our nerves, all of our models were somewhat calm and really rocked it out for us. Our designs were a hit as well as our models who were looking beautiful and we received so many great compliments from people at the show. What a rush! After all of the designs were shown it was pictures and networking time and as a plus size model, this is my favorite thing to do. Later there was an after party where attendees were able to dance, mingle, and eat while celebrating such an amazing show. Needless-to-say it was a late night with an early flight the next morning, but so worth it.

FFFWeek was a complete success for us as a company and we hope that next year Gwen DeVoe with DeVoe Signature Events (DSE) will bring FFFWeek to us in Los Angeles. We feel so blessed to have been part of such an amazing, ground breaking event for the plus size fashion industry. We are so thankful to have had the opportunity to share our designs with such a welcoming, enthusiastic, supportive audience. For those of you that Rhasaan and I crossed paths with on this adventure it was such a pleasure to meet you all and hope you will stay in touch. If you have any comments or feedback please feel free to do so below. We would love to hear from you.

Danielle Line, Plus Size Model and Guest Writer for www.swakdesigns.com

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plus size summer trends

Welcome to Summer 2009 ladies! Finally my favorite season is here and in full effect. No more June Gloom! Soon it will be July and it’s all sunshine from there. I figured I would start out the season by going over some plus size fashion “must have” trends for your summer wardrobe by SWAKdesigns.com. These “must have” fashion trends are for every occasion, not just your summer vacation. They are for your everyday activities including work, rest, and play.

The Maxi: Plus size Maxi Dresses are everywhere this season and are a huge fashion trend for summer 2009. If you still think are thinking that you cannot wear a Maxi Dress, think again. With all of the different styles and pattern variations you are sure to find a Plus Size Maxi Dress that is right for your figure. Maxi Dresses are the perfect dress for any plus size woman and help to conceal any minor figure flaws one may have. Flirty, romantic, and stylish, these dresses can be worn for every occasion this summer, from shopping with the girls to a romantic summer night out on the town. Check out the Melody Maxi Dress available in black, purple, coral, and electric blue.

Ruffles: Feminine and flirty ruffles are a definite “must have” fashion trend this season. Look for soft, romantic style blouses and dresses with accents of single to layered ruffles. If not worn right, ruffles can be bad for a plus size person because they tend to emphasize parts of our body that we do not want to call attention to. Stick to ruffles that are small and follow the trim of the garment and they will actually work to elongate your body and give you a slimmer silhouette. Ruffle trim wrap dresses are gorgeous and a perfect “must have” this season. For the perfect ruffled top option check out the Nikki Checkered Plus Size Top available in white/black check or pink/black check.

Work Wear: As divas, we must always dress to impress and dress for success. To stay trendy and cool at work on these hot summer days, opt out on the typical 3-piece suit and go for something with a little less fabric. Vests are a “must have” this season and can coordinate with virtually anything. For work pair a vest with a classic white button up shirt and pencil skirt. If you must wear a blazer to work, look for styles with one-button waist closures and narrow lapels made of all-season fabrics like rayon tweeds and light blends. Stay away from basic black and try a new shade, perhaps khaki or a choclate brown. Why not be daring and go for white? In the work wear department SWAKdesigns.com has got you covered. Check out the Alicia Plus Size Shirt Dress available in a variety of classic colors or their Classic Fit Trousers in black or tan/brown.

Trendy Active Wear: Anyone who thinks plus-sized women are inactive and do nothing but sit around on their butts all day is dead wrong and should join me and my plus-sized pals for a taste of BOOTCAMP. Working out is an everyday activity for plus-sized women in an effort to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Wearing comfy, yet attractive active wear helps boost your confidence and makes you feel good while exercising. Looking good, is feeling good. Be sure to choose your active wear wisely. Pick items that are made of breathable fabrics like cotton blends and are not too tight or bulky. Stylish tees, tanks, leggings or bike shorts are good combination’s for day to day workouts, but for pure comfort look into loosely cut plus size yoga wear in bright summer colors. For some super cute, trendy active wear styles check out the new Zen Yoga Wear Collection and the Aimee Plus Size Sweat Pants.

There you have it! Some of the “must have” plus size fashion trends for summer 2009. Visit our new arrivals often as we are adding new items to our summer collection daily. If there is a plus size fashion trend that you feel we are missing out on in our collection, please feel free to leave us a comment below. Happy Summer!

Danielle Line, Guest Writer, Plus Size Model for www.swakdesigns.com

summer fashions

Welcome to Summer 2009 ladies! Finally my favorite season is here and in full effect. No more June Gloom! Soon it will be July and it’s all sunshine from there. I figured I would start out the season by going over some plus size fashion “must have” trends for your summer wardrobe by SWAKdesigns.com. These “must have” fashion trends are for every occasion, not just your summer vacation. They are for your everyday activities including work, rest, and play.

The Maxi: Plus size Maxi Dresses are everywhere this season and are a huge fashion trend for summer 2009. If you still think are thinking that you cannot wear a Maxi Dress, think again. With all of the different styles and pattern variations you are sure to find a Plus Size Maxi Dress that is right for your figure. Maxi dresses are the plus size woman’s best friend and work to perfectly conceal some our minor figure flaws in the most figure-flattering way. Flirty, romantic, and stylish, these dresses can be worn for every occasion this summer, from shopping with the girls to a romantic summer night out on the town. Check out the Melody Maxi Dress available in black, purple, coral, and electric blue.

Ruffles: Feminine and flirty ruffles are a definite “must have” fashion trend this season. Look for soft, romantic style blouses and dresses with accents of single to layered ruffles. If not worn right, ruffles can be bad for a plus size person because they tend to emphasize parts of our body that we do not want to call attention to. Stick to ruffles that are small and follow the trim of the garment and they will actually work to elongate your body and give you a slimmer silhouette. Ruffle trim wrap dresses are gorgeous and a perfect “must have” this season. For the perfect ruffled top option check out the Nikki Checkered Plus Size Top available in white/black check or pink/black check.

Work Wear: As divas, we must always dress to impress and dress for success. To stay trendy and cool at work on these hot summer days, opt out on the typical 3-piece suit and go for something with a little less fabric. Vests are a “must have” this season and can coordinate with virtually anything. For work pair a vest with a classic white button up shirt and pencil skirt. If you must wear a blazer to work, look for styles with one-button waist closures and narrow lapels made of all-season fabrics like rayon tweeds and light blends. Stay away from the typical black this season and go for perhaps chocolate or khaki this season. Why not be daring and go for white? In the work wear department SWAKdesigns.com has got you covered. Check out the Alicia Plus Size Shirt Dress available in a variety of classic colors or their Classic Fit Trousers in black or tan/brown.

Trendy Active Wear: Anyone who thinks plus-sized women are inactive and do nothing but sit around on their butts all day is dead wrong and should join me and my plus-sized pals for a taste of BOOTCAMP. For plus size women, working out is an everyday activity in order to stay healthy and fit. Wearing comfy, yet attractive active wear helps boost your confidence and makes you feel good while exercising. Looking good, is feeling good. Be sure to choose your active wear wisely. Pick items that are made of breathable fabrics like cotton blends and are not too tight or bulky. Stylish tees, tanks, leggings or bike shorts are good combination’s for day to day workouts, but for pure comfort look into loosely cut plus size yoga wear in bright summer colors. For some super cute, trendy active wear styles check out the new Zen Yoga Wear Collection and the Aimee Plus Size Sweat Pants.

There you have it! Some of the “must have” plus size fashion trends for summer 2009. Please be sure to check our website often as we are adding new items to our summer collection daily. If there is a plus size fashion trend that you feel we are missing out on in our collection, please feel free to leave us a comment below. Happy Summer!

Danielle Line, Guest Writer, Plus Size Model for www.swakdesigns.com

plus size clothes

There are key pieces that every Plus Size woman needs to have in her wardrobe and I cannot live without. Since it is the beginning of spring, I thought it would be good to get every woman started on the right path in creating their new “spring-fabulous” wardrobe. These wardrobe essentials will help you create a variety of looks that are classy, figure-flattering, and timeless.

1. Foundation garments: Starting with the proper undergarments is key to having a “Spring-Fabulous” wardrobe. I feel that what you wear under clothes can definitely make or break your outfit. Every Plus Size woman must be sure to have proper fitting bras, panties, shapers, etc. to help smooth out your curves and complete the look you are trying to achieve. I do not leave home without these and particularly love the hide and sleek cami by SPANX.

2. Sexy Wrap dress: This is a definite must have dress style for every Plus Size woman. Why it’s so amazing is because the diagonal part of the wrap works like magic to show off a narrow waist and fakes one for the wider waisted women. The wrap dress is a classic and is super sexy whether in a print or solid, pair it with a sexy pair of open toed heels and you are “Spring-Fabulous.”

3. A-line skirt: A Plus Size woman cannot go wrong with A-line! This skirt style is especially great for women who have either a tummy issue or a hip/thigh issue but works well for most figures. When finding the right length in an A-line skirt you want to stay away from styles that hit you mid-calf, it’s better to just hit at or below the knee where the leg is the thinnest and shows off the curve of the calf. Try and pick an A-line with a pretty floral pattern that is perfect for spring.

4. Classic button-front shirt: A classic shirt you will reach for again and again. You can’t go wrong with this style whether if it’s for work, a casual day out and about, or a night out on the town. Long sleeve, short-sleeve, three-quarter sleeve, whatever sleeve, pair it up with a fitted vest or under a light weight sorbet colored cardigan and you are “Spring-Fabulous.”

5. Jeans: Whether they are cropped or not, no wardrobe is complete without a great pair of plus size jeans! They can be dressed up or down. Wide-leg trouser style jeans are especially great for the more pear-shaped woman and the “Skinny” jean styles are great fit for the apple-shaped plus size woman. For spring, try out a pair of distressed “Boyfriend Style” jeans for a more casual laid-back look. Whatever style you choose be sure to save the lighter washes for more casual daytime looks and the darker washes for the dressier night out look.

6. Trench coat: This is a perfect spring staple! A Trench coat gives an outfit a complete, more polished look. Pick one in a bright spring color or basic khaki. Find one that fits close to your body or that has a tie at the waist for a more figure flattering look. Three-quarter length styles are the most flattering, but be sure to stay away from the styles that have oversized lapels that can be extremely overpowering.

7. Flat sandals: The foot-friendly flat sandal is a true essential for a “Spring-Fabulous” wardrobe. In addition to embellished, fringed, patent, metallic, and snakeskin print flat sandals the “gladiator” look is particularly stylish and is worn great with jeans, Bohemian style tops, skirts, and dresses.

8. Romantic blouse: This blouse should have a romantic feel to it with a lightweight, soft, flowy fabric in a light pastel solid or print. Find a style that has some lace or ruffle detail to make it “Spring-Fabulous.” If the blouse is loose enough perhaps try belting it to define your waistline. Pair this blouse with jeans and your flat sandals and you are set.

9. Deep V-neck top: Deep V-necklines are a staple in plus size women fashions. Wearing a deep v-neck makes the body look longer and leaner and is extremely flattering for a plus size figure. If a deep V-neck is not for you pair it with a lightweight coordinating color cami for a great layered look with a pair of jeans.

10. Hobo bag: Comfortable hobo style bags in colors such as black, white, beige, metallic, blue, green, orange, and violet are extremely hot this season. Make an impression and carry something bold and bright.

Danielle Line, Guest Writer, Plus Size Model for www.swakdesigns.com