If I were going to list my plus-size wishes for 2009, there would be one that also topped the list for ‘08: find out more about plus-size eco-friendly designers and offerings. Where are they? Do you have any secrets for plus-size fashion seekers wanting to go totally green?
One brand that I am aware of is Saffrona’s Mewv collection, which has an amazing capsule collection on their site. . . but since I discovered it last year, it hasn’t changed a bit! I can’t figure out if they still do orders regularly, and my emails to the company haven’t been answered. …read more

I can’t go a week without making a stop at Old Navy. This week, I ran into the amazing Plus Pleated Top marked down to $10, and it’s currently still available in 2X-4X. I have this top, and it’s grown on me. It’s soft, it’s silky, and it looks great with every shrug you have in your closet. The straps are adjustable, with a button closure, and while it was a holiday-time offering, it looks awesome for spring.
I already wore mine twice this week, so I highly recommend you zip over to Old Navy and get something great– even if …read more

eShakti is one of my favorite companies out there: they offer amazing price points (starting at about $30), handcrafted pieces with detailing like embroidery, beading, cutwork, and appliques, and– the best part– customizable anything on the items they offer. Change the sleeves, submit your measurements for a perfect fit, or get petite/tall items– the sky’s the limit.
For those of us who hate the “plus size” tag, this is the place to go. Size 0s and size 20s are treated equally, and when you include your measurements, aren’t even assigned that number. Sounds a little bit like specialty size heaven, doesn’t …read more

Silhouettes– which just so happens to make shoes of my dreams and very appropriately-proportioned/scaled plus items– has this great beaded dress in their “new items” department. I feel a little guilty about featuring it, because they have a ton of spring stuff and swimwear, but then again, we’re probably all headed to at least one spring fete this year!
This dress in georgette features lines of beads down both the front and back, and it’s $99 in sizes up to 26. I love that it has natural shape without falling too close to the body. . . very possibly a good …read more

Mmmmm, Missphit. I just zipped over there after they were featured in the L.A. Times, and they’ve got a cool bonanza of plaids going on! While this piece has some amazing details like a ruffled front yoke and a shaped midsection, there are also more casual cowboy-plaid shirts that will go awesome with jeans. Now if only they produced clothes past 3X, I’m sure we’d all be tickled pink (and blue… and green).
Take a look, and have fun!

Do you feel that plus-size designers are convinced we love the trapeze shape? As most of us know (or have learned through trial-and-error), nothing could be farther from the truth! Let’s make a promise to ourselves to aim for more shapely selections with beaded waistlines (see here) and nipped-in shapes that show off the fact that yes, we also have curves! Experiment with wide and skinny-ish belts to find one that looks good, and then run with it.
I’ve been really impressed with JCPenney’s selection of belted plus dresses, and this beaded one is on sale for $49.99. All the more reason …read more

Looking for something that meets your budget requirements and that’s really high on style? I’m going to admit that I was surprised to see this pick at Lane Bryant, mostly because it was particularly gorgeous and (in my head) worth three times as much! That’s not so bad, is it?
Pleats give this tunic a new shape that disguises lumps and bumps without the usual “I’m hiding under a tent” look, and the puff sleeves are generous enough to actually make your arms look smaller. It’s $34.99, on sale! Visit Lane Bryant to pick one up.
Photo: Lane Bryant

Available up to size 28, these pieces from Saffrona have got some serious attitude. They’re eco-friendly, which has been hot for a while now and is finally starting to break into the plus-size industry. This Ruched Dress in Berry Soy is just right for a gorgeously full-figured girl who needs something to match her vivacious personality.
Does anyone have an in to contacting these Mewv reps? Email me if you can; I’ve been trying to got a hold of them, and to no avail.
Photo (c) Saffrona, Mewv

A little thrilling pick me up for you all. . . eDressMe has plus sizes! I was thrilled when doing my usual scan to see dresses in chiffon, ruffles, and lace– in all the colors of the rainbow. While they are essentially top picks from Kiyonna, Monif C., and a few house surprises, it’s worth a peek if you need a concentrated shopping experience. Get over there when you need a little dressy something and you have no time!
Photo (c) eDressMe

(Long Trench Puff Sweater, $29.99; Sparkling 3/4 Length Sleeve Special Occasion Dress, $59.99; Mixed Media Scoop Neck Blouse, $24.99; Wide Leg Knit Pants, $29.99)
I can’t resist a sale! The Lane Bryant sale has blown me away– take a look to see what I’m talking about! I found gorgeous tees and dresses perfect for special occasions marked down 30 to 50%! Wow
On why I love each piece:
Trench Puff Sweater: This Trench is interesting. It combines the details of a trench with the softness of a sweater, and that’s just divine. Sumptuous, to say the least.
Sparkling Dress: I’m attracted …read more