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Think that you can't be a fashionista just because you're not a size 2? Think again. Not only do we now have a plethora of choices in plus size clothing to allow you to express your fashion-longing soul, but you also owe it to yourself to find your inner fashion diva and set her free!
As plus size women, we have sat invisible on the sidelines of fashion for too long. We want to look good, be comfortable and to feel good as well. We want to express our personality with our clothing, and enjoy the self-confidence that it gives us.
Why Don't the People on TV look like me?
For decades, the media has dictated that only thin people were fashionable. We all grew up with the unspoken messages from TV or movies that if you weren't thin or beautiful, you weren't acceptable. So many of us played with Barbie dolls as little girls, thinking that is the way we were supposed to look when we grew up, but very, very few of us do look like that now. We have been set up to feel bad about ourselves.
We have the power to end that now as adults and accept the beautiful body and soul that we have just exactly the way we are! And what better way to do that, than to dress like we love ourselves and want to show the world how amazing we are? And if you're a mom to a little girl or teenager, think of what a good role model you can be for self-acceptance.
Luckily we live in a time when clothing designers and makers are creating every category of clothing in plus sizes, so we as consumers have more to choose from than ever before. Clothing is being designed with our unique needs in mind, unlike in the past where standard ladies' size clothing was just simply made bigger. Plus size clothing needs to be designed and cut differently, to accommodate our curves, and for maximum comfort. Finally, the fashion industry is getting it!
Should I Shop Online or Locally?
All you need to do is to do a search online, and a vast world of plus size fashion is at your fingertips. Every category from swimwear, to workout clothing, lingerie, formal wear, career separates, jeans, and accessories. Even bridal gowns! Be sure to have your measurements handy at all times, however, and always compare them to the online merchant's sizing chart. Sizes can vary greatly between merchant and designer and only this way can you make sure you're ordering the correct size.
Of course, the best situation is when you can try on clothing before you buy, but local brick and mortar merchants may not have the selection you are looking for. But when shopping for something where the fit is crucial, say a bra, for instance, it is very helpful to have a professional sales consultant provide you in person. Plus, if you can establish a relationship with a local plus size retailer, they may offer to notify you when new styles come in. Nothing beats personal service.
You Look Fabulous!
The most important thing is that as you're shopping, you feel good about yourself. It should be a fun experience, finding styles that you maybe never thought you could wear before. Maybe you'll find a color you look beautiful in that you never wore before. Make sure that you love what you buy. Whether you're able to invest in some more expensive pieces, or have to pick up a few things on the sale rack, don't settle for anything that doesn't make you feel beautiful. Because you are.