Forgotten Woman Series: Plus Size Shopping Tips for the New Year

Happy New Year my Beautiful sisters! We’re almost a month into a brand new year and it is said that 13 is a lucky number. I say, let’s channel that energy into our shopping and looking fabulous all year round. 

As someone who is a size 26/28, I know that it can be frustrating to shop for fabulous pieces because some retailers, boutiques and designers don’t offer clothing past a size 22/24. Hence the title “Forgotten Woman”, which is the name I thought of when thinking of myself and others who feel excluded from these businesses when it comes to shopping. We feel forgotten and passed over. Just because we are above a size 24 does not mean we don’t want to look fabulous too. Well, all is not lost. Here’s some tips to help make your shopping experience a better one and yes, even at some of those retailers who only go up to a size 22. You’d be surprised.

Tip #1: Know your measurements and carry a tape measure in your purse while shopping.

Torrid Luxe Jeans
$39.95

Don’t be a slave to the size on the tag. It’s all about measurements and fabric, which I will go into later.  I cannot stress how important it is to know your measurements.  The basics are bust, waist, hips and the inseam of your legs. I also think it is important to know the width of your calves (important when buying boots) and the width of your upper arms (important when buying jackets) .  Many retailers list measurements for their items online and it can help you gauge if the item will fit you regardless of size. 

Sizing is all over the place in the world of plus size fashion. For example, I wear a 28 in jeans. However, in Lane Bryant, I cannot fit into their 28s. At Avenue, I wear a 26. At Old Navy, I wear a 30. I never thought I’d fit into a pair of jeans at Torrid because their denim brand typically runs small and only goes up to a 26 with some jeans going up to 28 (online only). Then one day, the salesgirl convinced me to try on a pair of their Torrid Luxe jeans in a 26. THEY FIT. She explained that the fabric was more than 5% spandex (the norm in jeans) and there was more width in the knee area.

ASOS Pencil Skirt, $31.57

During my personal journey of finding fashionable clothes that fit me well, I learned to not focus on the sizes too much. Because again, it’s all about measurements and the amount of stretch the item has. Here’s another example: ASOS’ Curve line goes up to a size 22. Yet, I have read online in a few reviews that their pencil skirt in Baroque Chain Print will fit someone a size 28 because of the cut and stretch of fabric. I also have heard from many ladies that City Chic and Simply Be run big as well. I think that is attributed to these two being non-US companies (City Chic is in Australia and Simply Be is in the UK) where sizing is different than here in the US. ASOS is based in the UK as well.

Tip #2: Know your fabrics and what works well for your body type. 

When you’re a plus size woman, I believe it’s important to know about fabric. I love to feel fabric and will stand there in the store, stretching it and seeing if it is a workable fabric. Fabrics like jersey, lycra, spandex, and polyester have stretch. Always check to see if an item contains spandex in it because that will increase the stretch factor.

Old Navy 3/4 Sleeve Striped Dress
XXL, on sale for $12.97

For example, Target goes up to a size 4, which is the equivalent of 26/28. However, the fit depends on the fabric. If there is no stretch, the 4 will not fit as well and might not fit at all, depending on how big your upper arms are and your hips. Case in point, Target had these great sweater leggings in junior sizes, up to a XXL. I know someone who is a 26/28 and fit in the XXL because of the stretch of the fabric. They have since sold out to which I am still bummed about because I did not get a pair.

I have heard that some of Old Navy’s clothing in XXL will accommodate someone who is a 22/24 or even a 26/28, depending on the stretch. So it pays to look at fabric content. Don’t dismiss it just because of the size.

Tip #3: Know your body type and what silhouettes look best for your body type. 

Igigi item pg showing body types

Knowing your body type is key. Every plus size woman has a different body. That’s why it is such a challenge for retailers to really get the cut and fit right for plus size clothing. Some of us have a defined waist, which is known as an hourglass shape. Some of us carry more weight on top and some of us carry more weight in our hips and butt. Some of us have long torsos and no defined waists. Some of us have more in the tummy area and some of us have short legs or arms. Knowing your body and where you carry your weight is so important in finding what styles look best on your body. Igigi has a great tool called Shape Stylist, where you can find out your shape by answering a few questions. In all the descriptions of their items online, the body shape the item would look best on is always stated. It’s a great way to know what would look best on your body type.

Tip #4:  Try on clothing, if you can.

I know it’s a pain in the butt to try on clothing and a lot of us don’t even want to go there. But honestly, it’s worth it. Just because something looks good on a hanger does not mean it will look good on you. 

Just make sure you wear clothing and shoes that you can easily slip on and off. If you are going dress shopping, bring your shapewear with you and wear the bra you plan to wear with the dress. Shapewear and the right bra will make a difference in how the dress will look on you in the dressing room.

Tip #5:  Read reviews on websites for items you like.

To me, one of the greatest things created in the retail world (or any website for that matter) are customer reviews. You can find out a lot of information on fit and how an item holds up by reading the reviews. My favorite ones are on Old Navy. Those customers really let you know how fit are and don’t hold back. I also rely a lot on word of mouth as well. If you visit retailer’s Facebook pages, you can see comments posted by customers. I also joined a few plus size shopping related groups on Facebook where women share their opinions on clothing they have bought.

Tip: #6:  Invest in some must-have pieces to keep in your closet.

Bow Stretch Belt
Lane Bryant Outlet
$29.99

I love to create outfits reusing pieces in different ways. One of the ways to help with that is to have a few must-haves in my closet such as a wide belt, a skinny belt, some blazers and leggings. Many times I will see a dress I love but it will be too short for my liking. Does that mean I have to pass on it? Certainly not! I just wear leggings or skinny jeans under it with some pretty flats or peep-toes.  I have gotten some great belts at Torrid (up to a size 4). I hear Cato and Lane Bryant Outlet are other great places to find some nice belts. As for leggings, Walmart, Sealed With A Kiss Designs and Avenue all carry great leggings up to a 4X/30/32. 

I hope these tips will inspire you to get out there and explore your style. You should never let your size hold you back from expressing yourself through fashion. We all want to look fabulous in our own way. And when you look good, you feel good too. It's a new year so let's have a new shopping attitude. Happy shopping!

The Frugal Files: Update Your Wardrobe the Frugalicious Way!!

Welcome back frugalicious ones!!

Hope it’s been a great week for you!! So, how’s the weather? Isn’t that how you might start off a new conversation? I know, a little old fashioned, but during this time, this question literally still applies to us. We’ve been having a very warm Fall and it seems that from day to day, we are not sure what to expect. So, let me ask you this? Have you changed out your seasonal wardrobes yet? I haven’t and I also haven’t taken our air conditioners out of the windows yet. We haven’t been using them, but it still just doesn’t feel like “it’s time”.

One thing it’s always time for though, is fashion. Frugal fashion and that’s what we’re chatting about today. I’m not going to point out sales or do any high end to low end scale matching, but I’m going to share some tips I’ve learned from one of my favorite (and local) stylists, honey like love, about how to stay stylish no matter what season it is.

These tips are easy to do, very affordable and will dazzle you up whether you are headed to your 9-to-5 or headed out to a Girl’s Night Out. The best thing about them is that you will have a great time shopping in your own closet and will rediscover your wardrobe for what it truly is…frugaliciously fabulous!!

Use Color!! Whether it’s a little or a lot, be sure to incorporate it into your wardrobe. I know many women have a closet full of black clothing, especially for the Fall and Winter, since history has shown many are encouraged to wear darker colors for these seasons. While that’s true, dark doesn’t always have to fall into the black/brown category. Discover colors like Tangerine, Golden tones, Grays and Chartreuse. Make your outfit stand out with a pop of color. Want more color selections with which to experiment?, Check out Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2012.

 



How do you use your color? Use it around your neckline to draw out the color of your eyes or make your lips pop. Add a little to your lapel, mix and match it on the top and bottom. Have a completely unexpected color in your high heels. All will tie in with your outfit and give you the confidence needed to strut your frugalicious stuff into your next meeting.

Mix & Match!! We hear this all the time right? It usually is referring to changing out your tops and bottoms (or similar sale items in a grocery store and coupon scenario). I concur here too, but will take it further. Not only can you where that top with pants, a skirt or a pair capris, you can also mix and match your seasonal pieces with your out-of-season pieces. Yes, that’s right. With the exception of flip flops, I propose that you can use pretty much any of your Spring and Summer pieces with your Fall and Winter wardrobe. You just have to know how to wear it.

Have a favorite boyfriend tee, sleeveless tank or romper pants suit? Add a blazer and keep it moving? What about your dress? Dress it up more with a cardigan. Next time you purchase a dress, be sure it’s at least a 3 season frock where you can wear in more than one season.

Use Accessories!! This is self-explanatory, but I promise you will NEVER get tired of this tip. Depending on your mood and event, the possibilities here are endless. You have your obvious accessories like jewelry, watches and hair adornments, but don’t forget about your belts, which when partnered with a jacket and pencil skirt, are fab-u-lous!! Also, eye shadow and lip color, leggings and patterns tights, brooches and handbags. Oh and scarves, one of my FAVORITE additions to apparel. Have you seen this video? 25 Ways to tie a scarf!! You will be dazzled and dazzle others with this creative fashionista’s tying tips.

 

So, how do you feel about walking into Winter now? Surely, you can with style right from your own bedroom!! Toodles and chat with you soon!!

Frugalicious Diva
Follow Me on Twitter at @FrugaliciousDva

All Eyez On...:Tru Diva Designs to Host Trunk Show & Launches Search for New Face for Brand

Veronica Lipscomb, the design mind behind plus fashion brand, Tru Diva, announced via press release that she is hosting a trunk show later this month to celebrate the relaunch of her brand. Taking place on Saturday, October 27th at Basha Studios 34, Tru Diva will also host a search for new faces of the full figured fashion brand.


Launched in 2006, Tru Diva has quickly made a name in the plus size fashion market by setting itself apart. Known for its innovative and unique use of colors and styles, Tru Diva and Veronica have earned tremendous praise from women worldwide in the size 10 to 26 demographic.

Recently Ms. Lipscomb decided to take the design aesthetic Tru Diva became known for up another level with the expansion of more customizable fits for her curvaceous customer. Veronica understands that not all plus size bodies are build alike. To better serve her clientele, the designer now offers four fits (straight, pear, hourglass and oval) to better flatter their diverse shapes. The trunk show will give attendees a sneak peak at her new offerings for Holiday 2012—which will include coats.

“Knowing your body type is half the battle,” said Lipscomb. “But getting the right fit is winning the war,”
The announcement of the new fits is in tandem with the relaunch of the Tru Diva website which will now be a full service e-commerce site.

The Tru Diva trunk show will begin at Noon. To learn more about Veronica Lipscomb and Tru Diva, visit www.trudiva.com and facebook.com/TruDivaDesignsbyVL.

All Eyez On...: Beyond The Rack, The New Flash Sale Destination for Plus Size Fashion!

Beyond the Rack, North America’s fastest growing online retailer announced yesterday that it has launched a new destination accessible through its website called My Curvy Closet - devoted solely to plus size fashions. Members can expect ten new events per week including a selection of sportswear, dresses, denim, outerwear, intimate apparel, shapewear, accessories, and footwear – all up to 80% off

Recent studies indicate that almost 2/3 of North Americans wear a size 14 or more and that plus-size consumers represent approximately 30% of consumer purchasing power.

“Plus-size fashions have been a top requested category from our customers for quite some time. Providing plus-size customers with an equally broad assortment of goods tailored to a variety of shapes and sizes - in a dedicated shopping destination - was a priority for us,” says Yona Shtern, CEO of Beyond the Rack. “Listening to and acting upon feedback from our members has always been integral to our success and continued growth.”

My Curvy Closet will be accessible to all new and existing members of Beyond the Rack. Membership in the club is always free.

  We're loving their slogan "Love Your Curves, Fill Your Closet!" Belle-Noir Readers, be sure to check out My Curvy Closet! To sweeten the deal, they are offering a $10 shopping credit to our readers when you sign up for the site when you sign up here. Also, be sure to check out The Curvy Fashionista, Marie Denee, as she selects her favorite looks for the month of October, while also sharing her style recommendations for plus size fashionistas!
 

Click here to sign up for My Curvy Closet
and receive your $10 Shopping Credit!

The Scene: Summer 2012 Must Attend Events

Summer 2012 is in full swing, and as is usually the case, there are plus size events happening all over the US! Check out some of our picks for must attend events for the plus size community! Click the flyer or link for more information.

July

 Qristyl Frazier "Sizzling"  Summer Fashion Show
(New York City)
- Tuesday, July 10

www.qristylfrazierdesigns.com

 8 Plus Divas "Passport Diva" Fashion Show
(Alameda, CA)
- Saturday, July 28

www.8plusdivas.com

Curves Rock Fashion Weekend
(Baltimore, MD)

- Friday, July 27 through Sunday, July 29

www.curvesrockweekend.com

August

Curvy Chic Closet Pop-Up Consignment Shop
(Portland, OR)

- Thursday, August 23 through Sunday, August 26

www.curvychiccloset.com

Curves Fashion Week
(Atlanta)

- Thursday, August 30 through Sunday, September 2

www.curvesfashionweek.com

September

Curvy Closets Plus Fashion Showcase
(Philadelphia)

- Saturday, September 1 

www.curvyclosets.com

The International Fuller Woman Expo
(Detroit, MI)
- Friday, September 21 through Sunday, September 23

 

www.fullerwomanexpo.com

Do you have a plus friendly event taking place this summer? We'd love to add it to our list! Email the information and a flyer to editor [at] belle-noir [dot] com. We will be updating this page regularly throughout the summer!

Fearless Fashion: In Bras We Trust

I usually blog on Fridays but Miss Aja B. asked me to blog about a Fearless Fashion moment I had during Full Figured Fashion Week that has changed my life. During this phenomenal moment, I learned about...**drum roll**...BRAS.

So, for the past two years, I have worked on the FFF Week production team as the event manager and organizer of the 2-day Curves in the City Shopping Event. Many great vendors come out, some being major retailers, and it’s an overall great time for all.

The Lane Bryant team

This year, Lane Bryant had a table on Day #1 and instead of vending, they provided bra fittings and advice. The Lane Bryant team, headed by Heather McGarry, Marketing Manager, are awesome. They're so accommodating and gracious. Truly a pleasure to work with.

I had no idea what was about to happen and I have to say, it was one of the most enlightening moments in my life.  I walked up to the table to say "Hi" to Heather, who was there with Ms Lewis, the one giving the bra fittings. Imagine my surprise when I saw Ms Lewis sizing me up literally and then she asks me, “Are you a 48 in band? DD in cup?” WOW, yes! She knew off the bat by just looking at me.  I was sold.  This woman is the bra whisperer!  She then informed me that there are three types of bras: One that brings the girls UP, one that pushes the girls OUT and one that pushes the girls IN. Say it with me: Up, out and in! 

Ms Lewis working her magic

She told me that I did not need them lifted up or out. I was fine in that department, thank goodness. **PHEW** 

However, I needed them pushed in to give me more shape and cleavage. She informed me off the bat that I was wearing the wrong bra because my underwire was too high in the front.  She then suggested I get a plunge bra. I admitted to Ms Lewis that I usually shied away from plunge and balconette bras because I thought my breasts were too big for those styles and would spill out. She informed me that I was wrong. If you’re wearing the proper cup size, there will be no spilling.  That is why it is so important to know your correct bra size.

Cushion Comfort Plunge Bra

She showed me the Cushion Comfort Plunge Bra ($38 - $44, depending on size and color), which comes in 12 different colors and prints. It has convertible straps so you can wear the straps in an X style, if needed. There’s also no boning on the sides and nice padding there. I felt the bra and loved what I felt. It offered support, was sexy and comfortable.

The second bra she suggested I get was also from the Cushion Comfort line but it’s a balconette style bra, which comes in 8 different colors or prints ($38 - $50.50, depending on size and color). The straps on this bra style are not convertible. However, it offers a nice sweetheart neckline that will enhance your cleavage, smoothes your sides out with no boning and has padded straps. Padded straps are like heaven to those of us with large busts since we get those dreaded red marks on our shoulders from the weight of our breasts wearing down the straps.

Cushion Comfort Balconette Bra

Lastly, we talked about the magical Multi-way Strapless Bra ($42 - $64, depending on size and color), which comes in 5 colors and prints, including my fave…leopard print! I recently purchased 2 of these prior to FFF Week during a Buy 1 Get 1 Free deal on the Lane Bryant website. And I am in love. I have always been scared of strapless bras and thought they would not be able to hold my girls. Well, I tried this one on, jumped around and all of that and the girls stayed put. I was shocked. This bra keeps the girls up where they should belong and it’s such a flattering and comfortable bra that you can actually wear as your everyday bra. This is why I call this bra "magical". It's a must-have.

So, the main key points I learned from my time with Ms Lewis are:

1: Get a bra fitting every 1-2 years. As your weight fluctuates, so does your bra size. If you have lost a bit of weight in the past 6 months to a year and plan to lose more weight, get a bra fitting every 6 months to a year.  Allegedly, 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size and that’s a big number. Wearing the wrong bra size can affect your posture, cause you back pain, and prevent your girls from looking good. Remember, up, out and in! No woman wants to have sagging breasts with a bra on. Usually big department stores (like Macy's) do bra fittings as well as Lane Bryant and Penningtons (for my Canadian readers), which is where I got my bra fitting while visiting Toronto on vacation. Just ask one of the salespeople in the store and they should be able to help you out.

2: Once you know your size, learn what bra styles flatter you. Ask the bra fitter for her opinion on what style she thinks you need (Up, Out or In). It’s also good to try different styles on and see what is comfortable. That is the deciding factor. 

3: If you’re a C cup or larger, try to purchase bras with padded straps. Your shoulders will thank you.

4: Don’t be dismayed if the store does not carry your size. If the bra sizes are 1-2 sizes smaller than yours, you can still wear them.  Invest in bra extenders. I know for me, many Lane Bryant bras only go up to a 46 DD. Since I am a 48DD, I use an extender for those with no problem. Extenders can be found at Walmart for $5.88 in different hook counts. 

5: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and shop around. That’s the only way you will find which bras work for you. If you are above a 48 or above a DD cup and have a hard time finding bras, just Google bras <your size> and see what you find. There are many companies out there who offer bras in extended sizes.

Right now, Lane Bryant is running their Semi-Annual event where their bras are Buy 2, Get 2 Free. If you happen to have any Lane Bryant coupons, you can also use those in addition to the B2G2 deal. The sale is online and in-stores. So happy bra shopping and cheers to making the girls look their absolute best!

@FFFWeek Executive Producer Gwen DeVoe on Fox 5's Good Day NY

Full Figured Fashion Week 2012 is in FULL SWING! Did you see Executive Producer Gwen DeVoe
on Fox 5's Good Day New York yesterday? If not, you can catch the clip below, which featured a brief  interview with Ms. DeVoe and cute preview of what will be on the runway during the week! Kudos to Ms. DeVoe for keeping her cool with the jokester, Greg Kelly, and much props to Rosanna Scotto (we love her!) for being the consumate professional!

All Eyez On...: IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s Voyage Exotique

IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s Voyage Exotique takes Full-figured Fashionistas on a Magical Journey around the World Rich in Colors and Enchanted Luxury


Adeola Maxi Dress - $175

 San Francisco, California—June, 11, 2012— IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s latest collection Voyage Exotique is a delightful summer escape inspired by some of the world’s most captivating and exciting regions including Japan, Africa, The Tropics, and the Mediterranean jewel, Ibiza. Raquel’s muse, plus model Grisel Paula, begins her journey dressed in ethereally beautiful Japonesque prints and continues onto an adventurous and sandy safari where she becomes a powerful and mesmerizing African queen. Next, she is in colorful and rich patterns inspired by the lush greenery of a tropical paradise. The journey ends in Ibiza where a glamorous Grisel is the life of the party dancing the night away before a dive into the warm waters at sunrise. Voyage Exotique is now available at http://www.igigi.com/ and select specialty stores worldwide. The link to the video can be viewed here, http://www.igigi.com/inmotion?linkid=topmenu.



Eva Maxi Dress - $175



“Summer is the most exciting time of the year to escape to exotic, fun, and historical places for vacation, and I wanted to have our fashionista channel a world traveler going across the globe visiting different popular destinations perfectly dressed for each climate and occasion. I concentrated on pieces which are both bold and beautiful as well as easy to pack and wear for an effortless and chic style.” said Yuliya Raquel, IGIGI Founder, Head Designer, and Creative Director.

Voyage Exotique includes dresses and separates ruched and draped in signature Yuliya Raquel style that carry the season’s most sought after trends. Maxis and cocktail dresses in daring and vivacious floral, animal, and color-blocked prints, and lace; and business and casual separates in breathable, soft linen are just some of the highlights of the collection.




Diana Infinity Dress - $165

 Headquartered in San Francisco, Ca, IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel was founded in 2000 with a mission to transform the world’s view of beauty by providing full-figured women with fashion-forward, quality, and well-fitting clothes that would help express their beauty. Collections are designed in-house and produced locally through independent San Francisco Bay Area contractors. IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel has been featured in major fashion and life style magazines likeMarie Claire, The Oprah Magazine, People StyleWatch, Ladies Home Journal, Glamour, and Essence, and it has been a favorite among celebrities such as Nikki Blonsky, Kim Coles, KayCee Stroh, Jill Scott, Kelly Price, Ashley Fink, Martha Wash, and Gabourey Sidibe. IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel collections are available online atwww.igigi.com and select boutiques worldwide. IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel was honored with the Best Plus Fashion Retailer of the Year award (Full Figured Fashion Week, June, 2010), and made Internet Retailer's Top Hot 100 list (December, 2010), and received About.com Critics’ Choice Best Plus Designer Award (March, 2011).

The Scene: :"Big Brooklyn Style" debuts TONIGHT on TLC!

Shout out to @ShellzKing for reminding us that "Big Brooklyn Style" will debut tonight at 10pm EST on TLC!

Lisa Dolan, owner of Lee Lee's Valise
(photo credit: TLC.com)

What's "Big Brooklyn Style"?  "Big Brooklyn Style" is a new realtiy TV series that follows Lisa and Jim Dolan as they redefine the norms of plus-size shopping in their Brooklyn clothing store, Lee Lee's Valise.

" Each episode focuses on three different customers and how their intimate shopping experience at the store helps transform their lives. Through laughs, drama, and some tears, Lisa and her team seek to transform not only their customers' wardrobe, but their outlook on life and themselves. Ultimately, Lisa's goal with Lee Lee's Valise is for women of all shapes and sizes to feel confident, fashionable, and sexy." - from the show's website.



We are very excited to catch the show tonight! You can check the TLC website for station information in your area. If you're on Twitter, you can get in on the discussion by using hashtag #bigbrooklynstyle.

We'll be watching--will you?

Mid-Week Must Have: Queen Grace Announces Vieta Handbags

We received the following from our friends at the Queen Grace Collection:

"Introducing the popular and ultra stylish handbag line by Vieta Accessories!

Vieta handbags are 100% sustainable, eco friendly, luxe looking, super stylish and the best part? They are a fabulous compliment to our gorgeous QG spring color palettes and we think these luxe bags are priced perfectly just for YOU.


This special, limited edition series will be running through Spring 2012 so get your QG Vieta bag now - they just may sell out before you blink your pretty little curvy girl eye!"

Redeem code QUEENIE25 and enjoy 25% off your 1st order! Free Shipping for all orders over $100.00! They ship worldwide & Queen Grace is proudly made In the USA!

I am loving the Allie Clutch and the Honor Handbag! Do you have a fave?

Have you checked out the Vieta Accessories line from the Queen Grace Collection? It's available now at www.queengrace.com!

All Eyez On...:Igigi Spring 2012 Look Book

If you have been reading the Belle-Noir Mag blog for while now, you already know that I have a love affair with Igigi. Team Belle-Noir has heard me say repeatedly that if I ever win Lotto, I would probably purchase just about every dress Igigi comes out with every season. It is not only the fact that their clothing is feminine, flirty, and just gorgeous, but in having purchased several of their dresses (both semi-formal and formal) as well as a few of their tops, I know first hand that their clothing is made with quality and from materials that just hug every curve I have (while often hiding the ones I don't really want to make stand out).

Our friends at Igigi were kind enough to send over their new Look Book for Spring 2012 entitled "A Breath of Fresh Air". And true to its name, the dresses featured make you just want to run outside on a warm spring day, breathe in deeply, exhale and say "ahhhhhhhh!"

From Igigi abut the new Breath of Fresh Air collection:

"My design sensibility has always had a vintage vibe to it, so this season I decided to go all the way and just have a blast with stylistics. I took the old covers of Vogue magazines from early 20’s all the way trough 50’s and created homage to the history of style.” Said Yuliya Raquel, Founder, Creative Director and Lead Designer in a press release.

Here are a few of my favorites from the collection that are available now (all in sizes up to 32):

Daffodil Love Dress
$122

Vintage Floral Dress

Lempika Dress $128.00

Vintage Polka Dot Dress

What do you think about these selections from the Igigi Spring 2012 Look Book? You can check out the full Look Book here and visit Igigi at www.igigi.com.  

Color Your World Red

Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick. ~ Gwyneth Paltrow

It's just something about the color red. I think it's a color that looks great on anyone, no matter what your skin tone or hair color. I say that because there are so many shades of red to compliment anyone. All I know is that when I wear the color red, it puts an extra pep in my step and I just feel like I own the room just by wearing red. I love when I color my hair red; it gives me a fiery, bold type of attitude. And of course, as Ms Paltrow said above, a kick-ass red lipstick can take you from drab to fab with the quickness.

The color red allows us to add a little color in our world when we need that pep. It allows us to be bold and daring because that is what red represents. Red means strength and power. Red is such a color that if you are brave enough to rock it, it tells the world that you are unstoppable. Colors, in general, especially a nice jewel tone like red, can not only make you look good on the outside but boost your spirit on the inside too.

Red also equates sexy. I have heard plenty of men talk of how they love to see a woman in a red dress or wearing red pumps. I personally think it's because not only does it represent passion but it also represents confidence. And we all know men love a confident woman who can own a room. Confidence is definitely a trait that makes a woman or man more attractive. If you step into a room wearing red, you're getting noticed.

In Chinese culture, red represents good luck, happiness and joy. Brides wear a red wedding gown - it's considered the classic wedding dress in China. Everyone attending the wedding is actually encouraged to wear red because the color red is regarded as energy, a symbol of the fire element in Chinese metaphysics. It helps the couple to chase out bad luck on their wedding day. (source)

To me, red is such a powerful color. While it gives me a reason to be bold and daring, red also represents love. What a better way to honor your love for yourself and your strength by rocking a cute red dress and just feeling fierce. And if I can get some good luck thrown in there by wearing red, then that's an added bonus.

If you don't want to wear a red dress, there are other ways to add red to your wardrobe. Leopard print, which is a trend that never goes out of style, now comes in different colors. A red leopard print is nice...it's bold and modern. I have seen red leopard print leggings, clutch, shoes, even a tee. Sometimes a hint of red or a red print can make a bold statement on its own. At the end of the day, what matters is how you feel from the inside and out. Find what red pieces work for you and make you feel good. As Tim Gunn (my best friend in my mind, lol) always says, "Make it work!".

And don't let it stop at your clothing. According to Feng Shui, a front door of a house painted red means "welcome". And I think a red door is fabulous. Since the door is the entryway into your home aka "your safe haven", the red door keeps all the unwanted bad energy out. A red door would instead create welcoming positive energy. Some even believe a red door protects its occupants from evil. Yes, a red door can be that deep. I also love when I see a red painted wall or room in someone's house. I believe it's a mood booster. Not to mention, it looks fabulous when coupled with a pretty design that has a black and white secondary color scheme.

National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 3rd and what a great reason to wear red! You are not only adding some color to your world but you are helping in raising awareness on heart disease, which kills more women than all cancers combined. (source) So rock your red and not only raise awareness of heart disease but channel your inner boldness. Be fierce, be daring, be fearless! As the great Bill Blass once said....

Preach, Mr. Blass! Because once you are rocking that red, whether it's a nice red top or shoes or even a nice kick-ass red lipstick, there will be no doubt as to how fabulous and beautiful you are. Werk!

The Frugal Files: Project Reach In...for the Holidays

Hey there frugal folks!!

Last week I shared some ideas for you to plan your Black Friday adventure. So, hopefully you've mapped out your plan and you're ready to come out of the trenches and man your stations. Just a little advice: be safe out there. Be courteous to other frenzied shoppers. Watch where you're going and don't lollygag. Get your items quickly, move to the check out, then to the car. Watch out for strangers and be careful heading out.

I wouldn't go out at all that day if I didn't have to take my daughter to work. This will definitely be an experience for her, since she will be working TWO retail jobs that day. She is up for the challenge though.

Now, the other thing about this season is all the events that take place. There are a number of gatherings going on from now until early January, including holiday parties, family and friends gatherings, brunches, shopping sprees, concerts, fundraisers, community service events. You name it, it's going on this season.

Especially during this time of year, many people are concerned with good cheer, loved ones and the less fortunate. In order to accommodate all that's taking place, Frugalicious Diva encourages you to reach in your own life. In fact, we're going to call this challenge (because you know I love challenges) Project Reach In. The idea is that instead of shopping, since you're already doing that for others this season, that you shop at home. Here is what I mean...

Contrary to what the sales ads say, this season is not just about spending your money. It is also about giving. Community Service not only helps the community, but it does a soul good. In this branch of Project Reach In, I urge you to "reach in" your closet, your basement, your kid's rooms and donate items to the less fortunate. Your children will be getting new items this year, so why not clean up and donate their old toys. Samaritan's Purse organization sponsors a Build A Box project, where you pack a shoe box with a special personalized greeting in order to bless children all around the world.

Be not only a good global citizen, but a good neighbor. Reach In your deep freezer and purpose to prepare two meals; one for your family and one to share with your neighbor or a family from your church. I recently saw online a great organization Down For The Clause who is passing on blessings because they have been blessed. Feel free to Reach In your heart to donate or even create a cause in your own area. The more giving the better!!

At the family and friends gatherings, decide to potluck. Reach In your cupboards and pantries and make your favorite brunch dish to share with your loved ones. Do you have a bottle of wine you've been saving? Reach In your cellar and bring it as a host gift when you attend a catered party.

Now for concerts and more elegant parties. Instead of buying something new for each event, simply Reach In your closet and shop. My friend does a weekly fashion segment on her local news station called Style in the City wMissy and last week she featured her first plus size model (YAY!!) For the last two weeks she's addressed fashion for events. She encouraged adding color and heightened elegance by accessorizing. So remember that plain black dress in the back of closet? Pull it out, add a scarf for color, put on your patterned heels and incorporate some bling.

You already have everything you need to celebrate yourself and others this holiday season. Project Reach In is sure to be a success for you. Enjoy yourself and love others!!

Frugalicious Diva