Big Girl in a Skinny World: How to Put Together a Chic Outfit

published 3 March 2010

Hello Ladies,

This week when I was contemplating what to write for this blog post, I began to sift through my inbox. I noticed a reoccurring question: "How do I put a chic outfit together?" It seems many of you may have all the right components for a great outfit, but don't have the slightest idea how to put it together. Many of you reference a favorite celebrity's style, but feel it's impossible to achieve on your own. But the truth is, it isn't.

Style is all about how you wear it. Check out your favorite ensembles in magazines or ad campaigns—notice how they are all about layers of interest. A great outfit usually has multiple components (think the Olsen twins—you can't quite rest your eyes on one particular thing). If styling an outfit seems difficult for you, research! It's not like homework. I find fashion blogs like WhoWhatWear.com (opens in new tab) and thesartorialist.com (opens in new tab) invaluable for both tracking the latest fashion trends and finding inspiration. Then try the Monkey See, Monkey Do approach. Visit these sites often enough and you'll find yourself adding their influences into your looks.

Here's my very own how-to guide for building a great look. Start with a pair of jeans and a tank top—any color. Top it with a jacket: Try ASOS CURVE Exclusive Lace Shrug (opens in new tab) in black or cream or INC's Cropped Silk Motorcycle Jacket (opens in new tab) in black or beige. Then add a lightweight scarf like H81 Gauzy Animal Scarf from Forever 21 (opens in new tab) or a Mudd Floral Eternity Scarf from Kohl's (opens in new tab). Shoes can make or break an outfit. Even the simplest ensemble is elevated to super-chic with the addition of a great heel. Try the Purple Leather Jollie Nine West sandal (opens in new tab) for a little color or a Rashelle Peep toe bootie for a little edge. And there you have it: The key is layering interesting pieces! If you have any questions, you know where to find me!

-Ashley

YOUR BIG GIRL IN A SKINNY WORLD