Fashion on a Budget

I know I've made a distinction between fashion and style, so maybe I should title this Style on a Budget, but I like the sound of it as is, so I'm sticking to it.

Now I realize that not all of us wake up rolling in a pile of hundred dollar bills, but that doesn't mean you can't be fashionable, or more importantly, stylish. I've written here about having basics - your "go-to" pieces that go with EVERYTHING, and those are the pieces you want to invest in. Buy the best quality neutral colored, basic trousers, skirts and jackets that you can afford. These are the pieces that you'll wear for years to come and you want them to last. (There's no saying though, if you're on a tight budget, that you can't still buy these items on Nordstrom's sale rack). Not only do you want them to last, but the higher priced stores generally use better fabrics, (which drape better and are more flattering) and offer a better cut (also, more flattering). The cut is simply the pattern the designer uses

Plus-size Style

I understand that many of you don't go on shopping frenzies much, because you think, "What's the point?" Well, I'll tell you the point. When you look great, you feel great and when you feel great, it's that much easier to get out of bed in the morning and go for a walk. And walking really is surprisingly good exercise. But...I digress.

Here are some tips for you - the same as I give all my clients - dress to emphasize your best assets. Don't try to tell me you don't have them because I know you do. The smallest part of any woman is the area directly under her bust, so invest in tops that cinch you in here, such as empire waist. Do NOT - I repeat, NOT - dress yourself in a shapeless tent. It only serves to add pounds. I'm kinda feeling like a hard ass here, but believe me, I know the mentality. I've been heavier than I like to be (yes, "plus-size", hell I'm still heavier than I like to be, but when I'm dressed super cute, it doesn't bother me much). And really, I've gotten to the point where I like my tummy a little. You have to accept yourself as you are, and dress your bod to its best advantage. Period. So as I was saying...