Be sure to catch Ashley on Rachael Ray's talk show next Monday, January 11th!
Hi Ladies:
This week Lindsay from Raleigh North Carolina says:
Hi Ashley! My name is Lindsay. I love reading your blog and articles! I am 17 years old and plus-size. I go to a private school where freshman, sophomores, and juniors have to wear uniforms. Well, because I am a senior, we are required to dress up. All the senior girls at my school dress so chic and classy. I have the HARDEST time finding clothes that look just as cute. I often go to a store to try and find a cute blazer, but when I try it on, it gets really tight around my chubby upper arms. I have no problem being a little bit 'curvy', but I have the hardest time finding chic clothes and outfits that fit and look nice with my body type. Any advice? Please help me!
Lindsay, I feel your pain. I have always been curvy, and I too had the same issues in high school. While we had uniforms, we also had dress down days, which posed major fashion dilemmas. I have to tell you—it doesn't end in high school. The best thing you can do is to not compare your body to anyone else's. You want to find basic pieces that can mix and match into your wardrobe.
If you are looking for a blazer, Kenneth Cole and
Calvin Klein have great options for the curvy girl. You can pair a blazer with skinny jeans, shorts, a dress, and a skirt. Invest in a few key pieces like a great pair of jeans, a pencil skirt and a few great cardigans. Find pieces that are special like the Rodarte lace cardigan from Target or one with a cool print or jewels, like INC's leopard print cardigan from Macys. Layer a cardigan over a basic tee or a dress. A great dress is an easy way to look put together and doesn't require much effort. Try Old Navy's Women's Plus Chambray Shirtdress or a
Love Ady's dress from Bloomingdales. To spruce up your basic pieces, pick up some trendy jewelry from Forever 21. Best of luck shopping! Let me know how it goes!
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
-Ashley
Your BIG GIRL IN A SKINNY WORLD
-
Zendaya Says She Might Just "Go Away for a While" During 'Euphoria' Hiatus
Rest is best!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Celebrate Earth Month With Our Feel-Good Fashion Report
Your guide to being more sustainable in 2024.
By Anneliese Henderson Published
-
Anne Hathaway Details the "Gross" Audition Request She Once Endured
"Now we know better."
By Meghan De Maria Published
-
Stylists on Why Leather Jackets Are a Great Investment
Fashion insiders weigh in on their favorite styles.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Grown-Ups Are Rediscovering the Charm of Peter Pan Collars
From bibbed button-downs to round-neck leather jackets, this year's takes feel more sophisticated than sweet.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Sabrina Carpenter Wears Vintage Victoria's Secret Lingerie to Tease Upcoming Coachella Performance
Her look was pulled from the brand's 1997 archives.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is Out
Another footwear trend embracing maximalism in 2024.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Brands to Shop for the Best Swimsuits
From size-inclusive labels to sustainable and designer options, this list is all-encompassing.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Vacation-Worthy Beach Dresses
From barely-there to playful fringe.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Could a 'Shirt Sandwich' Pull You Out of a Fashion Rut?
The gourmet styling trick may help you fall back in love with your wardrobe.
By Emma Childs Published
-
The Best Spring Dresses Simplify Any Outfit Formula
Style this wardrobe staple for any occasion, from farmer's markets to formal affairs.
By Lauren Tappan Published