Big Girl in a Skinny World: Everyday Chic

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!

-Ashley

Your BIG GIRL IN A SKINNY WORLD

Email Ashley here!