My love/hate affair with SHAPEWEAR!!!

I have a love/hate relationship with anything called shapewear! I strive to be comfortable and find that most shapewear is uncomfortable, binding, close to cutting of the circulation to my legs and not something I even want to attempt to put on at any point. Please do not get me started on control top panty hose. The only thing they control is my ability to properly digest food. But (there is always a but), I do admit that at times I want a slightly smoother tummy if the dress is particularly form fitting. Historically women have been trying to cinch in their waist since the 17th century. Centuries of needless suffering in an effort to achieve an idolized shape which still continues to this day. 

In the 1900's came the introduction of rubber which was believed the help reduce your size.I believe probably it was an effective tool because it increased the amount the women would sweat!

 In the 1940's designers realized that women actually needed some air circulation to prevent repeated episodes of fainting and introduced a girdle that was porous and allowed movement. Still uncomfortable and not very attractive.

In the 1970's and 80's the rage became control top panty hose. They were expensive, often rolled down and easily would get runs in them rendering them good for straining paint and possible robbing of banks.

                             The revolution for a lot of women was when Sara Blakely introduced:

 Spanx offered what women were looking for, a well made garment, that was comfortable and prevented the hated "roll down the tummy" undergarment disaster. Unfortunately I am not meant for Spanx. I find them too constricting and I do not possess enough coordination to use the little slit that allows you to pee without having to take the panties down. And to take them down requires more effort and time then I have in a tiny little bathroom cubicle. The lines to the toilet are long enough without having to wait for me to grunt, groan and attempt to pull up the "high waisted power panty". More often then not I surrender and shove them into my purse.

My last attempt at shapewear was successful for me. I found the smooth and chic comfort brief  fromCity Chic.

 I find that it holds me in where I need to be held, allows me to pull them down as needed and better yet, pull them back up without losing my dignity. I am sure you have had similar experiences and I would love to hear from you! Please share your stories or tips where to find great shapewear!

You are good enough!

Someone asked me why I don't just do a blog about fashion for the plus sized woman. My answer is there are many wonderful bloggers who's focus is on the aspect, but for me it is more important that women learn how to love and accept their bodies the way they are. I have several plus sized women friends who dress in impeccably stylish up to date fashions but still diminish their worth by saying terrible demeaning comments, slowly eroding their self value. Why do we do this to ourselves? Our value is not wrapped up in our weight. Our value should be judged by our actions, how we treat others in this world, what we do to make it a better place..NOT if we are a size 10! I spent far too many years hating myself because of a number on a scale or  the label on my clothes. I don't want another woman to waste that kind of time. I want you to have your epiphany today, NOW! I want you to embrace yourself and everything that goes into making you fabulous. If you need help finding your way, ask for help. I will be happy to be your support, your friend to find the way to positive body imagery. If you have found your way, help out other women by stopping them from expressing self hate.
To quote Confucius : "Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it". Find this beauty in you.

Embrace the Coral

The colour that seems to be the rage this season is CORAL. At first I was not sure this was a trend I wanted to embrace. I was worried it might be too bright, too orange or too limiting for my wardrobe. How can I work a coral piece into my clothing rotation that seems to be mostly filled with teals and browns? The answer...quite easily! What I have found is some beautiful pieces that will compliment clothing I already have. I have included some fun pieces that I think will work well this season and for more seasons to come.

ASOS Curve Dress 

Felicity Poncho Top Sealed with a Kiss

Pennington's Color Block Sheath Dress 

Eddy and Bri

Coral Skater Dress from Your Big Sisters Closet