There is one thing that I’ve felt deep in my bones for quite some time now: I can wear anything I want.
Now, now, this doesn’t mean I want wear every style or trend. It also doesn’t mean that everything I want to wear is available in my budget or size. But even though I’m decidedly short (5’3” on my model card) and decidedly plump, I’ve reached a state where almost no outfit scares me. In my mind, if I want to try it, I know I can.
You may be thinking that I have superhuman confidence. What it actually boils down to is figuring out two things: one, what the essential elements at the root of my sartorial inspiration are (is the texture, color, silhouette, material?); and two, how I can achieve those desired elements on my canvas? I’m not a sample size, but learning about fit and cut has helped me understand how to get a look on my body. It does sometimes involve shopping outside of my assigned sections and having a vision that might need tweaks and adjustments, but it’s been so completely freeing.
I refuse to subscribe to the idea that fat folks aren’t fashion. I want folks to feel empowered to achieve the style they want to wear. I don’t need to be concerned about what's flattering outfits, and...walk with me… neither do you. Getting dressed is a daily requirement—don’t you want to insert some joy and play into something you are going to do anyways? It makes getting dressed more “Who do I want to be today?,” instead of “How do I want to fix my body today?”
Now that we're well into the season, I turned to some of the biggest Fall 2025 trends from the runways to demonstrate how they can work on different bodies. Let's dive in.
Modern Minimalist
This trend is probably the furthest outside my typical style. I’d absolutely describe myself as a maximalist. Still, I wanted the challenge of playing with pared-down, beautifully made goods. I looked to The Row and Toteme for style inspiration, as both brands focus on form, fabrication, and timeless designs that feel elevated and not specifically contemporary.
For my takes on the look, I chased beautiful silhouettes and soft fabrics—nothing too fitted or restrictive. For footwear, Tabi boots and fancy flats felt appropriate because they're eye-catching but subtle. (You really have to look to appreciate the detail.) Cashmere is a natural choice (yes, cozy season), and outerwear in easy, classic silhouettes.
Oh So Bohemian
Chloé has completely revitalized the boho look in fashion. My personal takeaway is that it comes down to easy styling and opulent fabrications—think lace, sheer, flowing, intricate detailing.
I looked to my closet to emulate the nods and emotions that the Chloé Fall 2025 runway gave me. Volume and sheer were very important, coming together in styling that says, "I'm a creative."
Prep School
Looking to the classic American Ivy style, modern interpretations of prep come to us from many places. I love the way Aimé Leon Dore explores prep through streetwear, incorporating bold colors and clever layering. The Polo Ralph Lauren Oak Bluffs collection referenced further back, inspired by the predominately Black community in Martha’s Vineyard. Both lean on collared shirts and sweaters, natural fibers, color blocking, and sports lettering.
I wanted to play on the layering and relaxed fun of prep. Denim felt like a natural choice for a foundation to build on.
Dark Romance
One of my absolute favorite designers is Simone Rocha. Fantastical, nostalgic, dreamy, femme but not docile—there are so many elements to her designs that speak to my style. I love the ways she uses sheer layers and revealing cutouts to add surprise and sensuality to her looks. Leather also often pops up in her work; the hard and soft contrast is a steadfast element of her clothing.
I played with whimsy, textures, and contrast for my Simone Rocha Fall 2025-inspired look. Hard boots with soft knits, volume with plenty of skin on display. She often works off of black, white, and cream, adding an accent color, so I considered that in my palettes.
Breaking down specific elements of trends you can translate to your own wardrobe is so helpful for me. Plus, shopping my own closet to emulate looks I’m loving is a fun exercise. I’d love to inspire you to play around in your closet—and I know you’ll definitely look hot, whatever you are wearing!
