When I don't have time to sew, there are a few places I like to go to buy things. Some of my "go to" stores (especially if I have an outing) include Ashley Stewart, Fashion to Figure, Torrid, and DOTS. In all of these stores you can find cute outfits, handbags and purses, and accessories. For me it's usually the concept of mixing and matching. Warning: just because it looks good on the model on the website or on the mannequin in the store means it'll look good on you! It's important to know your body type and what features you want to accentuate and which parts you want to minimize (or not bring much attention to). I have curvy hips, am top heavy, and have broad shoulders, so I take all of those things into consideration when picking out an outfit. Because of my exposure to indie designers and boutiques during Full Figured Fashion Week, I've also begun to shop at plus sized boutiques. I've gotten a few things from some boutiques and will continue to keep an eye out for more boutiques. If you are a indie designer or own a boutique, please drop me a line! I must also admit that as of late, I've been on a kick with thick belts.
The other question I get is "where do you get your shoes?". This question is usually asked because I wear anything from a size 13W to a 15 (or sometimes 16) in shoes, and you will rarely catch me at an event in nothing less than 4-inch heels! When it comes to larger sizes, you have to look for brands rather than stores. It's also unlikely that you will find shoe stores that you can walk into that will have a section with shoes that big. Some of the online places I like to shop for shoes include Snaz75, Pierre Silber, and The Highest Heel. The brands that I tend to rely on are Bordello (by Pleaser), Dallas Heights, and Elie. Again, searching for these brands and on the aforementioned sites can be a hit or miss, but I usually find something I like, and if there are a pair of shoes I like, I'll buy a few pairs in multiple colors (I've actually lost count of how many pairs of Bordellos I have!).
More than anything, I guess the key to my looks is to constantly be aware and on the lookout for places that may have a thing or two here or there than you can use for an outfit. You'll be amazed at what an outfit can look like if you piece it together with items from various places. If you liked/loved this post, please comment or drop me a message and feel free to show me what styles you've come up with by piecing together things from various stores. Remember, being beautiful is not just about what you wear!
Until next time,
Sasha
Me @ Full Figured Fashion Week's All White Cruise in a dress I designed. Dress (made by): Planet Pepper, Shoes: Bordello (amazon.com), Purse: Target |
At the club taking a selfie of the dress I designed and made. Jacket and Belt: Ashley Stewart, Bracelets: DOTS, rings: garment district NYC |
Outside of a restaurant in NYC during a night out with friends. jacket: Ashley Stewart, corset: Amazon.com, pants: Disco Pants from American Apparel, Shoes: Bordello (snaz75.com) |