Guest Post: Plus Sized Fashion *with Coupon Code*

When Catherine Wood Hill of La Grande Dame, an upscale e-boutique for plus size fashion, left this thoughtful comment on my post Size 12 is not a Plus Size, we started a conversation via email. I invited her to write a guest post on Chic Critique, and when she accepted, she also offered to include a $25 off coupon code towards a purchase on her site. Please make her feel welcome!

Hello Chic Critique readers! Today Michelle Wood (mom) and I have been given the awesome opportunity to provide a guest post and we are so excited to discuss our favorite topic – plus size fashion.

Plus size fashion has been an oxymoron until just recently and, while wonderful designs are still tough to come by for women over size 14, we have a few tips, tricks and favorite items to share with you to help you look gorgeous, regardless of your size.

Ruffles

Nothing says feminine and flirty like a ruffled blouse! Many women are afraid that ruffles will make them look larger but as long as they are properly placed and not too big, ruffles can flatter any body type. I look for tops that have an asymmetric ruffle detail, such as this beautiful top by De Sentino. Softer fabrics are also a more flattering way to wear this trend as they don’t add as much volume as a more structured fabric would.

Capes

Capes have an air of luxury and mystery that I love. Plus, they are so practical. A cape can be worn with almost every item of clothing in your wardrobe, especially if you purchase one in a neutral color. Throw a cape on over jeans and a tee shirt and you are instantly put together and a cape looks equally at home over a cocktail dress. Just remember to buy one that is proportioned for you. Shorter women look great in hip length capes and ponchos.

Sparkle

Sparkle is just not for evening anymore. Whether larger or small, sequins, shimmer and sparkle add drama and fun to any outfit. Pair a sparkly top with a suit for a put together but not stuffy look. Pair a sequined skirt with a nubby sweater for a comfy, cozy, eye-catching ensemble. For evening go all out! Sparkle exudes confidence and will ensure that all eyes are on you!

Dark, luxurious fabrics

Wool and silk are two of my favorite fabrics and this fall they are at their dark and luxurious best! Layers of grey tailored wool trousers and dark silk blouses under nubby sweaters make this falls styles look exceptionally put together and sophisticated. Greys, blacks and browns have never been so stylish.

Pink

The brighter and bolder the better! This fall is not about baby pink – hot pinks, fuchsias and neons are going to look most current and on trend. Many plus sized women think they can’t wear bright colors because “dark colors are slimming”. Nonsense! Well fitting, high quality clothing is slimming, regardless of the color. Have fun with your clothes and make friends with your tailor!

There are many more gorgeous clothing options for plus sized women at La Grande Dame, and until December 1, Chic Critique readers may use the coupon code CHICC for $25 off any La Grande Dame purchase.