Big Girl in a Skinny World at Fashion Week: The Best Dresses for Curves

Hello Ladies,

I hope you enjoyed your weekend and holiday. Monday was a bit slower than past days of this whirlwind Fashion Week, and it was a much-needed break (it's not easy being fashionable!). I went to three shows, and glamour was at the essence of all of them. First in the day was Tracy Reese, followed by Monique Lhuillier and finally the Tadashi Shoji show.

Monique Lhuillier's collection had a distinct Asian influence. The models strutted down the runway with a tight braided bun high on their heads, sporting a bright red lip. The first few pieces were very literal in their influence, and it was obvious in their choice of fabric (think deeply colored satins with golden embroidery and floral embellishments). As the collection progressed into dresses (what Lhuillier does best), I was even more entranced. The evening gowns were fit for an empress—don't be surprised to see some of these on red carpets and at charity balls. My favorite floor-length gown was a maroon one-shouldered number with gold metal detailing on the strap. The draping was so effortless, and it would be the perfect evening gown, silhouette-wise, for a curvy girl.

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I was most excited to see the Tadashi show, a designer who hasn't forgotten that some women are larger than a size 10 (or, heck, a size 2). I actually purchased a Tadashi gown for an event recently that was stunning, flattering and, most importantly, age appropriate. While not all of his designs are featured in larger sizes, the brand is certainly ahead of the curve. Many plus-sized starlets such as Mo'Nique, Amber Riley, and Gabourey Sidibe have been spotted on the red carpet wearing Tadashi's designs. The Fall 2010 collection was perfectly draped with layered, sumptuous fabrics, and almost every piece could easily work on a bigger body type (the most frequently highlighted body part? The universally-sexy collarbone!). My favorite dress: a one-shouldered top to bottom sequined gown. I can't wait to see which dresses make it to the plus size market. Off to more shows tomorrow!

Be sure to follow @MarieClaire on Twitter for live updates from the runways.

-Ashley

YOUR BIG GIRL IN A SKINNY WORLD

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