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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.

Fashion Designer - plus size bridal gowns & long sleeve evening dresses - Darius Cordell Couture

The fashion industry all over world has realized that increasing numbers of customers fall under the category of plus magnitude. By not dealing in plus size clothing earlier, a comfortable portion of growth has been restricted in the ever-booming fashion industry. Fashion designers and executives invade however, understood strictly speaking they are actually making a huge loss by not producing plus size getup*.
The fashion industry all over the Net has realized specially increasing numbers of customers fall under the category of plus size. By not dealing in prize size clothing earlier, a large portion of growth has been restricted in the ever-booming fashion industry. Fashion designers and executives have however, understood specially they are actually making a huge loss by not producing plus size outfit.

Fashionable Plus Size Clothing has realized that increasing numbers of customers fall under the category of plus size. By not dealing in plus size clothing earlier, a large portion of growth has been restricted in the ever-booming fashion industry. Fashion designers and executives have however, understood that they are actually making a huge loss by not producing plus size clothing.

Designer Plus Size Clothing starts beyond 14W. The clothing industry has produced some really exotic wear for plus size women. The categories just keep on expanding. Stylish Plus Size Clothes is not at all about hiding your body. It’s all about flaunting your body in a more sophisticated way.

Plus size clothing doesn’t imply baggy clothing to hide your over sized figure. Well fitted plus size clothing will make you feel more sensuous by giving you an enticing appeal. No doubt, modern plus size clothing will put you on a par with mainstream fashion. You can show your legs by wearing a fashionable knee length dress or skirt. Inside a low cut top you can wear a camisole. And all this and more, is available for you in plus sizes.

You can accentuate your clothing by accessorizing with scarves and jewellery. Plus size clothing is designed to make you feel comfortable and attractive. Items in plus sizes are also available for underwear such as bras, bikinis, panties and thongs. Plus size clothing for special occasions such as plus size evening gowns, bridal wear, jeans and T- shirts are also readily available in all good department and specialized stores.

Now you can buy sleeveless and tube tops in plus sizes. Plus size apparel is all about wearing colours, prints and styles of clothing in a manner that makes you look elegant and classy. If you are over sized and quite conscious of exposing to much flesh on your shoulders, you can drape or carry an exotic shawl around your shoulders. With the right mix and match of clothing to match your size, you can look really sassy in your plus size apparel.

Plus size clothing for kids is storming the markets, both in the shops and online. There are pants, knickers, T-shirts, jackets all available for your children. Now you just have to choose if you want to buy that striking leather jacket or that exquisite denim jacket for your child. The options are limitless; all you have to do is choose what you want to buy – the choices are endless.

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

accessories

There’s probably one thing that all plus-size women and their wardrobes have in common.  Should I let you guess?  Yep, you’re right, it’s the predominance of black clothing.  It’s funny.  Somewhere along the way, we all seem to have bought into the idea that black is SLIMMING – and into the further idea that we needed to be “slimmed” by our clothing.  An annoying concept for those of us who LIKE our curves.  (And who see the irony in skinny women “enhancing” curves after starving to be slender.)  Why can’t we all just get along???  LOL.

But I didn’t start this article to write all that.  I started this article to talk about my favorite topic: the plus size little black dress.  There is one thing that we ALL need in our wardrobe, and that’s the perfect little black dress.  Why?  Because that one garment can take you from your daytime doldrums to your night-time fantasies within seconds – and almost as simply as if your fairy godmother showed up with a pair of glass slippers and a pumpkin carriage!

First of all, make sure that you HAVE a few little black dresses on hand, and make sure they’re stylish and in good condition.  Sometimes we wear them so often, that they’ve simply lost their pizzazz.  If you need one or two new ones, be BOLD and go for a shorter hem or a lower neckline.  After all, you can always toss on a great long, dramatic silk scarf (tied at the back of your neck) to create a more appropriate look for the office.  When you leave for the day, tie that same scarf sideways around your waste to add an attention-getting extra to your ensemble.  

What else can you do to pump up the volume?  Here’s 8 more tips to get the ball rolling.

1.    Stockings.  Remember that a simple little black dress can carry a bigger accessory statement.  Go for fishnet pantyhose!  … or at least consider a few polka dots or a classy seam up the back.  

2.    Shoes.  Okay, this is your chance to give yourself a REAL lift.  The great thing about a black basic is that you can add almost ANY signature color to your accessories.  Just make sure that you create a symphony of color – and not chaos.  If your shoes are red, your scarf should feature the same shade too.  You get the picture.

3.    Think about a hat.  Same reason.  A basic black outfit can carry those amazing extras that a print or plaid might not.  Just keep the chapeau to the same level of classiness.

4.    Go for the gusto with ONE big signature piece of jewelry, instead of an ensemble.

5.    Follow 7th Avenue’s latest craze and add a vibrant, colored trench over your little black dress!

6.    Add a zipper!  If you’ve seen anything in the media about fashion recently, you’ve probably noticed that exterior, exposed zippers are jazzing it up all over the place.  Want to make a strong statement with little effort?  Use double-sided tape to put a long faux zipper up the back of your dress – or hey – up the FRONT would be amazing!  (Just remember, it will only get you through the night!)  Remember to actually SEW the zipper in place if you love the look!

7.    Got an old dress that you’re ready to replace?  Add a few inches of lace at the bottom and at the neckline and save it for your next special occasion.  Lace might be too dressy for the office, but it is always a go at weddings and christenings.  

8.    Finally, #8 (which is actually #10, if you’ve been keeping count!).  It’s all in the bag!  Okay, I try NOT to talk about bags in every accessory column – just because it’s so obvious, but for the perfect little black dress, we simply CAN’T overlook the bag.  In this case, you don’t need to spend a TON of money either.  Hit the local thrift store and look for the most amazing little handbag you can find – or the boldest.  Remember, the great thing about the basic plus size little black dress is that it can make a BIG statement with just a LITTLE effort.

There’s probably one thing that all plus-size women and their wardrobes have in common.  Should I let you guess?  Yep, you’re right, it’s the predominance of black clothing.  It’s funny.  Somewhere along the way, we all seem to have bought into the idea that black is SLIMMING – and into the further idea that we needed to be “slimmed” by our clothing.  An annoying concept for those of us who LIKE our curves.  (And who see the irony in skinny women “enhancing” curves after starving to be slender.)  Why can’t we all just get along???  LOL.

But I didn’t start this article to write all that.  I started this article to talk about my favorite topic: the plus size little black dress.  There is one thing that we ALL need in our wardrobe, and that’s the perfect little black dress.  Why?  Because that one garment can take you from your daytime doldrums to your night-time fantasies within seconds – and almost as simply as if your fairy godmother showed up with a pair of glass slippers and a pumpkin carriage!

First of all, make sure that you HAVE a few little black dresses on hand, and make sure they’re stylish and in good condition.  Sometimes we wear them so often, that they’ve simply lost their pizzazz.  If you need one or two new ones, be BOLD and go for a shorter hem or a lower neckline.  After all, you can always toss on a great long, dramatic silk scarf (tied at the back of your neck) to create a more appropriate look for the office.  When you leave for the day, tie that same scarf sideways around your waste to add an attention-getting extra to your ensemble.  

What else can you do to pump up the volume?  Here’s 8 more tips to get the ball rolling.

1.    Stockings.  Remember that a simple little black dress can carry a bigger accessory statement.  Go for fishnet pantyhose!  … or at least consider a few polka dots or a classy seam up the back.  

2.    Shoes.  Okay, this is your chance to give yourself a REAL lift.A perk in having a basic black dress is that you can add accessories of any color.  Just make sure that you create a symphony of color – and not chaos.  If your shoes are red, your scarf should feature the same shade too.  You get the picture.

3.    Think about a hat.  Same reason.  A basic black outfit can carry those amazing extras that a print or plaid might not.  Just keep the chapeau to the same level of classiness.

4.    Go for the gusto with ONE big signature piece of jewelry, instead of an ensemble.

5.    Follow 7th Avenue’s latest craze and add a vibrant, colored trench over your little black dress!

6.    Add a zipper!  If you’ve seen anything in the media about fashion recently, you’ve probably noticed that exterior, exposed zippers are jazzing it up all over the place.  Want to make a strong statement with little effort?  Use double-sided tape to put a long faux zipper up the back of your dress – or hey – up the FRONT would be amazing!  (Just remember, it will only get you through the night!)  Remember to actually SEW the zipper in place if you love the look!

7.    Got an old dress that you’re ready to replace?  Add a few inches of lace at the bottom and at the neckline and save it for your next special occasion.  Lace might be too dressy for the office, but it is always a go at weddings and christenings.  

8.    Finally, #8 (which is actually #10, if you’ve been keeping count!).  It’s all in the bag!  Okay, I try NOT to talk about bags in every accessory column – just because it’s so obvious, but for the perfect little black dress, we simply CAN’T overlook the bag.  In this case, you don’t need to spend a TON of money either.  Hit the local thrift store and look for the most amazing little handbag you can find – or the boldest.  Remember, the great thing about the basic plus size little black dress is that it can make a BIG statement with just a LITTLE effort.

With the weather warming up and summer vacation quickly approaching, I decided to go on a quest for the best fitting plus size swimsuit. We all know that swimsuits can be pretty pricey, but I personally am willing to pay the price for something that is not only durable, but figure flattering and stylish. The last thing you want to have on your vacation is an ill-fitting swimsuit since you will basically live in it for however long you are away at your tropical paradise.

Fit is very important to me when shopping for a plus size swimsuit. As a Mother, Wife, and Plus Size Model it is important to me to NOT have all of my “business” showing to the entire world. I look for a swimsuit that I can not only wear from patio to poolside, but one that I can wear to the water slide park or for a day at the beach with the family. Having a couple of different options for different occasions is great, but for those of us who are on a budget we will make 1 suit work for all of the above.

On my quest I visited many different stores in the mall that I know carry plus size clothing such as Torrid, Macys, and JC Penny to check out their swimsuit collections. At each store I tried on a variety of swimsuits and had no luck at all. I just could not find a suit that fit me right and was stylish at the same time. I came home feeling frustrated and exhausted, so I decided to sit down and browse the web for other options. While searching online I found some amazing plus size swimsuit styles that were nowhere to be found at the mall on sites that I knew focused on plus size fashion and sizing.

The first site I sought out was LaneBryant.com and I found the Miraclesuit “Oceanus” one-piece swimsuit for $134.00 available in Black and Ocean Blue. This suit is a classic style and body for any occasion. It features special stretch fabric that gives you extra support and a noticeably slimmer silhouette. You cannot go wrong with this swimsuit!

The second site I visited was AlwaysForMe.com where I fell in love with the Twist Front Bandeau one-piece plus size swimsuit for $79.00 available in a variety of colors. This swimsuit has been featured in a variety of magazines such as O, The Oprah Magazine and is considered one of their top selling swimsuits. This suit has everything I am looking for in a plus size swimsuit. It has full tummy control, shirred sides that help create a curvy waistline, a super cute skirt that provides some coverage but doesn’t make you look like you are wearing a full swimdress, and the halter strap can be removed. AMAZING! This style is perfect to go from patio to poolside at the resort. I also love how easy it is to shop on their site and how much detail they give you on each and every item. You also can shop by your body type A+ to Alwaysforme.com.

Lastly I visited Swimsuitsforall.com I found the Delta Burke “Tigress” plus size halter tankini in brown for $98.00. This suit is super cute and has a high v-neck for good coverage and cinched sides with a drawstring tie detail. This is a great two-piece style and works perfect for an apple shaped girl. Love it!

These are just 3 plus size swimsuits that I found to be the best in durability, fit, and style. I feel that all women of every size and shape deserve to wear beautiful, stylish swimsuits and feel confident. I have to say that for 2009 the plus size swimwear collections are amazing with a variety of choices to fit every shape. So have fun this season, be adventurous, try something new, and always love the skin you are in.

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