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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.

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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It’s not unusual for for many full figure women to try to avoid wearing plus size shorts. That describes me perfectly! For the longest time, the only people I could think of who really looked decent wearing shorts were either athletes or skinny super models. But plus size fashion designers have begun heeding the call for fashionable and affordable shorts and swim suits.

These days, there are a wide variety of brands to select from when it comes to plus size swim suits and clothing. There’s even the option to shop for plus size clothes from special juniors retailers, as well as stores specializing in maternity clothing. Swimwear though, and related summer clothes, seemed to be taking a back seat for a long time. The wonderful thing is that brands including Torrid, Lane Bryant and Avenue (among others) are now allowing us a diverse range of styles for every season and budget.

When it comes to full figure shorts, the most important things to factor (besides fit) are length and style. Because plus size women have more robust figures, which often means wider hips and curvier thighs, the most figure-flattering cut is a pair of shorts that comes to between the mid thigh and right at the knees.  For a summery look without showing too much skin, opt for plus size capris, petal pushers, or cropped slacks.

The most flattering plus size shorts will have a flat front without a lot of embellishments.  Pleats are generally not a good look for those with extra weight in the “pooch” area. Flat panel shorts with simple pockets and clean lines will give you a flattering and stream lined look. A nice pair of shorts will match perfectly with your favorite tops, blouses and tee shirts as well. Plus size skirts are another trendy option. Once again, a longer skirt is the most flattering style.  Mini skirts are not as flattering, so a skirt that hits at your knee or longer is your best option.

So get ready to relax on the beach in fun and flattering styles of plus size bathing suits and shorts!

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

Several decades ago, it was hard to find clothes if you were above the small range of sizes offered by major manufacturers. Fortunately, these days the plus sized fashion market has grown by leaps and bounds. Not only are clothes available in larger sizes, but they are actually designed to enhance a plus size figure.

There are several current trends in fashion that work well for curvy, fuller women. The trends displayed on the runways for this fall as well as for next spring were very plus-friendly. Try to incorporate some of these design details into your clothes, and look for them in your favorite plus size stores.

For Fall/Winter
Bows and ultra feminine touches – Overstated bows, ruffles and other feminine details showed up on the runway on shirts, skirts and jackets. Look for bows that don’t overwhelm the piece of clothing. Ruffles and other flowy styles are perfect for a soft touch.

Pencil skirts – This popular style can work for most people, even though it’s fairly form fitting. Certain interpretations of this design aren’t appropriate for plus sized wear. Look past the skin-tight skirts in bright colors and look for solid-colored wool skirts.

Shift dresses – Shift dresses fit everyone, no matter what their size. They come in different variations, so look for an A-line dress to show off your legs, or a longer length with a belt to emphasize your waist.

For Spring/Summer
Ruffles – These soft details continue to be important in spring fashion. They suit plus sized body shapes perfectly since they conceal bulges and bumps.

Pink, white and grey – These colors showed up in a lot of different collections for spring. Gray looks great with most skin tones. Look for pieces that are shimmery and that have feminine details. Last spring’s fuchsia has softened this season to a muted, lipstick pink. You can incorporate this trend by adding a colored sweater or other accessory. White dresses were popular on the runway, but you can get the same impact from a fitted white top and a gray skirt.

Embellishments – Whether its beaded necklines, cross-stitched hemlines or sequined belts, embellishments are going to be a big trend in the spring of 2009. These are easy to incorporate into plus sized styles. Choose pieces that highlight your best features and you’ll be wearing plus size clothes that are trendy and figure-flattering.

Sheer fabrics – There was an abundance of sheer fabrics used on the runways this season. If the thought of transparent fabric scares you, you should know that sheer doesn’t always have to mean see-through. A lot of designers are using sheers layered over lined fabrics. You can use a lined sheer top underneath a short blazer or a shrug sweater.

Medium-sized floral prints – Last year, it was all about big and dramatic flower fabrics, which aren’t all that flattering to plus sized figures. This season, you’re in luck. The trendy florals this spring are from a muted palate and are proportioned just right for the curvy woman. Look for these prints in dresses, tops and skirts.

If you are like most plus sized women, you have had your share of frustration with shopping for clothes. The fashion world has definitely been created to cater to a small group of women at a specific size. Fortunately, things are starting to change. There are a lot of plus size clothing lines and clothes are being made with the curvaceous woman in mind. Whether you’d like to emphasis your curves or minimize them, follow these tips to dress your best.

1. Buy clothes that fit correctly and you’re halfway to dressing well as a plus size woman. Clothes that are too tight can emphasize bumps and lumps and can make you look heavier, and clothes that are too big can make you look bigger than you actually are. If you think you’re getting away with hiding your weight under clothes, think again. If your clothes don’t fit, you’ll look heavier. It’s best to find your size and buy accordingly.

2. Flowing fabrics typically are not flattering. The billowy shapes of these garments can add on extra pounds. You need to search for clothes that have structure and shape to them. Anything that is tailored, has definite seams, and can hold its shape is a good choice.

3. No matter what your plus size is, start with a good foundation. Your undergarments are important to looking your best. Consider getting a professional bra fitting so that you know exactly what type of bra works for your body. Underwear and bras help give you the support to show off your curves and make the most of your shape.

4. Once you’ve found the right fit for your undergarments and your shape, you can make a few choices that will help you look slimmer. Monochromatic outfits will give the illusion of slimness. When you don’t have different colors creating lines across your body, you’ll look taller and thinner.

5. You can also create the same illusion with dark colors. Black, navy blue and dark brown are all minimizing colors. Wherever you wear this color, you’ll appear smaller. You can use this to your advantage if you feel like your top half is larger than your bottom, or vice versa.

6. Plus sized jeans make it easy to emphasize your good points. Flared legs make you look taller and slimmer. Look for jeans that include spandex in their material so the jeans will hug your curves without sagging or appearing too tight. Several brand names cater to plus sizes so do some searching online to find the right brand for you.

7. Wearing things that make your legs look longer will also help you appear slimmer. Wearing cuff-less pants will give the illusion of length. Short heels will make your legs look longer as well.

8. Of course, you should also choose clothes that make you feel comfortable. Wearing things that you feel confident in are the best way to show off your shape.