To keep reading my Sunshine Plus Style blogs, I can now be found at the following website:
I look forward to seeing you there!!
Terri
I believe that every woman is beautiful. I believe that God does not make mistakes. I believe that every woman can own that beauty and rock it, if she has the tools. My goal is to give every woman the toolbox she needs to own her beauty.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Blog Has Moved to New Website
Hi Everyone,
To keep reading my Sunshine Plus Style blogs, I can now be found at the following website:
To keep reading my Sunshine Plus Style blogs, I can now be found at the following website:
Unemployment Rates for Women higher than for Men
I was watching ABC News last night and they were talking about the unemployment rate going down. But there was an interesting statistic included with that. They said that 90% of men were getting the jobs. They were saying that the thinking of employers was that men had families to support. But the reality is that 40% of families are supported by single women.
I have a few friends in Chattanooga who are incredibly dedicated, highly educated and very motivated to find jobs. They are applying every where and keep running into obstacle after obstacle. I have never been able to understand why these very employable women have not been able to get the jobs they are applying for. Now it makes more sense.
If employers are hiring mostly men because they think they have families to support, then where does that leave all of the women who are trying to support their families? Again, we are up against the double standard.
Jobs and salaries should be awarded on the basis of skill, not gender or race. Women are still underpayed for the same jobs as men. Now, women are not being hired because of a misconception that they don't have families to support.
I know it will never happen, but I wish that employers would turn a blind eye to gender and race for a change. I wish that skill level and loyalty and dependability were the buzzwords for hiring and keeping jobs.
I read an article the other day in More Magazine that was talking about the fact that the market is full to overflowing with Baby Boomer generation workers. But, the employers were looking at the next generation, Generation X, and how there are about half the number of people in that generation versus the Baby Boomer generation. The article said that employers were really starting to appreciation the Generation Xers they had on staff and they were really trying to hold onto them because there won't be as many or as skilled workers to replace them. I read this article before I saw the newscast on ABC News and I was thinking that the employment situation was really looking up. I guess it is, just not for women who are currently unemployed or underemployed.
I know, no one ever said that life was fair, right? It just seems that it ought to be a little less unfair in these days.
I have a few friends in Chattanooga who are incredibly dedicated, highly educated and very motivated to find jobs. They are applying every where and keep running into obstacle after obstacle. I have never been able to understand why these very employable women have not been able to get the jobs they are applying for. Now it makes more sense.
If employers are hiring mostly men because they think they have families to support, then where does that leave all of the women who are trying to support their families? Again, we are up against the double standard.
Jobs and salaries should be awarded on the basis of skill, not gender or race. Women are still underpayed for the same jobs as men. Now, women are not being hired because of a misconception that they don't have families to support.
I know it will never happen, but I wish that employers would turn a blind eye to gender and race for a change. I wish that skill level and loyalty and dependability were the buzzwords for hiring and keeping jobs.
I read an article the other day in More Magazine that was talking about the fact that the market is full to overflowing with Baby Boomer generation workers. But, the employers were looking at the next generation, Generation X, and how there are about half the number of people in that generation versus the Baby Boomer generation. The article said that employers were really starting to appreciation the Generation Xers they had on staff and they were really trying to hold onto them because there won't be as many or as skilled workers to replace them. I read this article before I saw the newscast on ABC News and I was thinking that the employment situation was really looking up. I guess it is, just not for women who are currently unemployed or underemployed.
I know, no one ever said that life was fair, right? It just seems that it ought to be a little less unfair in these days.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Seeing Ex-Husband today - Ugh
So, today I am driving my son to Memphis from Cleveland, TN. My ex-husband drives there from Sherman, TX so we can meet to exchange our son. He's going to visit for a week.
Anyway, I always try to dress in a way that makes me feel confident and pretty because... well, I want to look good and feel confident whenever I have to see him. Don't misunderstand me either, I don't want this guy back. More, I want to rub it in his nose that he got the worse end of the deal.
I was taking a look at my outfit today and I realized that everything was Lane Bryant. And I realized that when I was looking at a Lane Bryant catalog yesterday, I was not being fair. I kept thinking that their prices were too high. But looking at everything I have on today, that I bought last year, maybe, just maybe I am wrong.
Everything is roughly $25 to $50 for each item. But when you break down how many times you wear one of their pieces of clothing, the dollars per wear become nominal. I am wearing a denim pencil skirt with a kick pleat, a lace cami, a short sleeved hoodie and a t-shirt bra by Cacique - all of which were purchased from Lane Bryant. The skirt, the cami, the hoodie were all bought last year on one of my trips to Memphis around this time last year and they all are still in great shape. The t-shirt bra just came in the mail to me yesterday!! And I love it. This has to be one of the most comfortable bras I have worn in a long time. And that is saying alot for a 40DDD girl.
So, say a prayer for us this weekend so that everyone's trip is safe and good.
Anyway, I always try to dress in a way that makes me feel confident and pretty because... well, I want to look good and feel confident whenever I have to see him. Don't misunderstand me either, I don't want this guy back. More, I want to rub it in his nose that he got the worse end of the deal.
I was taking a look at my outfit today and I realized that everything was Lane Bryant. And I realized that when I was looking at a Lane Bryant catalog yesterday, I was not being fair. I kept thinking that their prices were too high. But looking at everything I have on today, that I bought last year, maybe, just maybe I am wrong.
Everything is roughly $25 to $50 for each item. But when you break down how many times you wear one of their pieces of clothing, the dollars per wear become nominal. I am wearing a denim pencil skirt with a kick pleat, a lace cami, a short sleeved hoodie and a t-shirt bra by Cacique - all of which were purchased from Lane Bryant. The skirt, the cami, the hoodie were all bought last year on one of my trips to Memphis around this time last year and they all are still in great shape. The t-shirt bra just came in the mail to me yesterday!! And I love it. This has to be one of the most comfortable bras I have worn in a long time. And that is saying alot for a 40DDD girl.
So, say a prayer for us this weekend so that everyone's trip is safe and good.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Saturday, March 12, 2011
The Painted Lady
I was at our local mall today, getting my hair cut and picking up some Bath and Body Works Body Spray (had to settle for Sweet Pea since they don't sell Wild Honeysuckle anymore, hmmff), and I decided to check out this store called The Painted Lady. I was very pleasantly surprised. I have walked past this store for years because I figured they didn't have any plus sized clothing. I figured they catered to the Size 0 to 10 ladies.
Today, I decided to stop and ask. And the owner, Betty Scott, took me all over the store pointing out all the Size 18 clothing that she had. She and I were talking and looking at all the beautiful clothing and just having a great time. I decided that I wanted to try on a shirt, but she convinced me that if I tried on the shirt, I had to try on the skirt with it. I guess there is a reason she owns the store, right? I was instructed to try on the whole outfit and come out in the store so she could see it. And then I could try on just the shirt with my jeans. I am all for playing dress-up, so I dutifully followed the instructions I was given.
She was completely and totally right about the skirt having to be worn with the skirt. The whole ensemble worked really well together. And the outfit looked much better than the shirt with my jeans, although, I will probably wear it that way some day.
So I spent twice what I had intended to spend, but if I wear the outfit a bunch of times, either together or separately, my dollars per wear will continue to go down. And I can wear this outfit just about anywhere.
Let me know what you think.
I went ahead and put on my Size 18/20 form because I didn't feel like begging my son to take a picture of me in the outfit. He has a new computer program for video editing and I can't get him off the computer. But that is a totally different story. You can't see it in the picture, but there are little gold flecks in the skirt that catch the light and sparkle. The seaming on the shirt and the ruching on the sleeve are all perfect for my body type too. And I really like the little ruffle that runs down in front.
I am working on another article for the Spring Trends. I should have it up in the next couple of days.
Today, I decided to stop and ask. And the owner, Betty Scott, took me all over the store pointing out all the Size 18 clothing that she had. She and I were talking and looking at all the beautiful clothing and just having a great time. I decided that I wanted to try on a shirt, but she convinced me that if I tried on the shirt, I had to try on the skirt with it. I guess there is a reason she owns the store, right? I was instructed to try on the whole outfit and come out in the store so she could see it. And then I could try on just the shirt with my jeans. I am all for playing dress-up, so I dutifully followed the instructions I was given.
She was completely and totally right about the skirt having to be worn with the skirt. The whole ensemble worked really well together. And the outfit looked much better than the shirt with my jeans, although, I will probably wear it that way some day.
So I spent twice what I had intended to spend, but if I wear the outfit a bunch of times, either together or separately, my dollars per wear will continue to go down. And I can wear this outfit just about anywhere.
Let me know what you think.
I went ahead and put on my Size 18/20 form because I didn't feel like begging my son to take a picture of me in the outfit. He has a new computer program for video editing and I can't get him off the computer. But that is a totally different story. You can't see it in the picture, but there are little gold flecks in the skirt that catch the light and sparkle. The seaming on the shirt and the ruching on the sleeve are all perfect for my body type too. And I really like the little ruffle that runs down in front.
I am working on another article for the Spring Trends. I should have it up in the next couple of days.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
My First Image Workshop
Well, I did it!! I just finished my first Image Workshop. I was so nervous!!!! My voice was shaking. I was shaking. But, I did it!
I arrived 15 minutes early so that I had time to get my laptop hooked up to the projector for my power point presentation. I started on time. I introduced myself and started the presentation. Somehow I managed to cover Body Shapes, Facial Shapes, Complexions, Styles and How to Dress Appropriately in 30 minutes. Shwhew (Wipe sweat off brow).
I even assigned a homework assignment. Really tough one too, LOL! They have to take their measurements, based on the chart included in the handout. Then they have to determine their body shape, based on the descriptions in the handout. Next, they have to look through the magazines I provided to find the right shaped clothing for their body type.
We're girls - who doesn't want to look through tons of magazines and pick out pictures of clothing!! Like I said, tough assignment - LOL!
Now, I have to figure out how to personalize the information for each participant and get them on the road to a fabulous personal image in the next 30 minute workshop.
Wish me luck.
I arrived 15 minutes early so that I had time to get my laptop hooked up to the projector for my power point presentation. I started on time. I introduced myself and started the presentation. Somehow I managed to cover Body Shapes, Facial Shapes, Complexions, Styles and How to Dress Appropriately in 30 minutes. Shwhew (Wipe sweat off brow).
I even assigned a homework assignment. Really tough one too, LOL! They have to take their measurements, based on the chart included in the handout. Then they have to determine their body shape, based on the descriptions in the handout. Next, they have to look through the magazines I provided to find the right shaped clothing for their body type.
We're girls - who doesn't want to look through tons of magazines and pick out pictures of clothing!! Like I said, tough assignment - LOL!
Now, I have to figure out how to personalize the information for each participant and get them on the road to a fabulous personal image in the next 30 minute workshop.
Wish me luck.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Update on Common Bond Christian Womens Job Corp
I promised I would keep you up to date on my dealings with the CBCWJC. Last week I met with the ladies that have been working for the last 3 years to get this program up and running. They were excited about being able to offer the participants a workshop on improving their image and I am excited that they want me to participate with them.
Today we got to meet the participants in the program. The program lasts for 9 weeks. They meet once a week for 3 hours. They have a program that was designed by the Christian Womens Job Corp that will walk the participants through all sorts of helpful courses on building their self-esteem, how to create a resume, how to get through a job interview, how to create and follow a household budget. Information that everyone needs to know, but isn't always taught.
They worked into the schedule 2 thirty minute sessions for me to teach the participants how to improve their images for finding and keeping a job. My challenge is to only give the absolutely critical information they need in that short timeframe. So, tomorrow I begin creating that program.
I thought I would start with face shapes, body shapes and coloring. Then I would determine who is what and what they can and cannot wear in general. In the second class I would show them how to start with, let's say, 5 must have pieces and how you can create 15 or 20 outfits using those 5 basic pieces, either by accessorizing or using a few other seasonal items with those.
Another challenge is that I need to be able to present office attire and production attire. Not everyone is going to be looking for jobs in an office. I was thinking about teaching the production workers how to create their own "uniform" for work and then learning how to dress outside of work.
I'll keep you posted! And if I haven't said it lately, Thanks for reading my blog!!
Terri
Today we got to meet the participants in the program. The program lasts for 9 weeks. They meet once a week for 3 hours. They have a program that was designed by the Christian Womens Job Corp that will walk the participants through all sorts of helpful courses on building their self-esteem, how to create a resume, how to get through a job interview, how to create and follow a household budget. Information that everyone needs to know, but isn't always taught.
They worked into the schedule 2 thirty minute sessions for me to teach the participants how to improve their images for finding and keeping a job. My challenge is to only give the absolutely critical information they need in that short timeframe. So, tomorrow I begin creating that program.
I thought I would start with face shapes, body shapes and coloring. Then I would determine who is what and what they can and cannot wear in general. In the second class I would show them how to start with, let's say, 5 must have pieces and how you can create 15 or 20 outfits using those 5 basic pieces, either by accessorizing or using a few other seasonal items with those.
Another challenge is that I need to be able to present office attire and production attire. Not everyone is going to be looking for jobs in an office. I was thinking about teaching the production workers how to create their own "uniform" for work and then learning how to dress outside of work.
I'll keep you posted! And if I haven't said it lately, Thanks for reading my blog!!
Terri
Friday, February 18, 2011
It’s President’s Day Weekend and that means sales. I a few emails from my favorite places to shop with discounts and sales going on, so I thought I would share them with you.
Avenue is having a Final Clearance Sale over the weekend with an additional 50% off the lowest ticketed price. Be sure to use the Coupon Code of AV111040
Fashion Bug is having a 50% off when you buy any other item at regular price plus $15 off your regular priced purchase of $50 or more. Enter code 776441909 at checkout.
Joann Fabric and Craft Stores – for those of you who like to sew has a sale going on too – online or in the store.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
OSP Fashion Show
Just finished watching the OSP Fashion Show that I thought was supposed to be a live show - NOT. I have to say I was very disappointed. It was the same model over and over again. She was wearing the same cuts of clothing over and over again, just in different colors.
And I have to say, the cuts and angles and sleeves of different lengths just were not that flattering. The model was beautiful, but her hair was so distracting. You couldn't see the back of the garment because of her hair. Some of the pieces looked like pajamas or capes. If that is what we have to look forward to in the plus size fashion for fall, I think I will just stick to my classic timeless pieces.
And I have to say, the cuts and angles and sleeves of different lengths just were not that flattering. The model was beautiful, but her hair was so distracting. You couldn't see the back of the garment because of her hair. Some of the pieces looked like pajamas or capes. If that is what we have to look forward to in the plus size fashion for fall, I think I will just stick to my classic timeless pieces.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Price of Cotton Rising?!
This morning I was watching the news and one story caught my attention. The headline was about cotton prices rising. I listened a little closer and then I started digging for information.
Apparently the price of cotton has doubled over the last year and many manufacturers are not going to be able to maintain current prices of clothing because of it. The reason the price has doubled is because of horrible weather conditions in the crop growing countries of China, the U.S., Pakistan and Australia. Then there have also been restrictions on exports from India, the world’s second largest exporter of cotton. And on top of all that, the demand for cotton has risen with the improvement of the global economy.
Bottom line is that we, the consumers, will pay higher prices on spring clothing and then possibly higher prices in the fall.
What are some ways to save on clothing then?
Below are some tips for buying clothing a little more frugally:
· Sign up for texted discounts from your favorite stores.
· Use the coupons and “fashion bucks” you get from stores.
· Shop at your local consignment stores.
· Consider the quality of your purchases. Clothing that is of a higher quality will last longer and your price per wear will make it a better bargain.
· Ask yourself if you really love the item before purchasing it.
· Pick and choose very carefully what “trendy” items you will buy.
If you have a solid wardrobe consisting of basic classic pieces, then you don’t have to spend a lot of money to freshen it up with a couple of new pieces for the Spring season. Basic classic pieces being items like mid-rise boot-cut dark wash jeans; A-line skirts, fitted jackets, mid-rise trousers with wide waistbands, etc.
You can still have a great wardrobe on a budget! You may just have to spend a little extra time looking.
Monday, February 14, 2011
First Meeting with CBCWJC
I have my first meeting tonight with Common Bond Christian Women's Job Corp (CBCWJC). I volunteered to be a mentor for women that are trying to improve their lives and get better jobs. I am not really sure what to expect, but I am excited.
I am also a dog trainer and my business, Sunshine Canine, is listed - incorrectly I might add - in the yellow pages as a veterinary hospital. How? I have no idea. Anyway, I received a resume from a kid looking for a job over the weekend. I took a look at her resume and I was very underwhelmed. Basically, the only information I gained about her was her name, address, phone number, email address and a picture. All of the rest of the information was pretty much useless. She said she went to school for Equestrian Studies. Ok, well, not being a big horse person, I don't have any idea what that would include. So I sent her some suggestions on how to improve her resume. Hopefully she didn't just delete my email and not try to improve it.
I have really been thinking about this image consultant career and where I could find my niche. Besides preferring to focus on plus and full figured women, I believe that I could draw on my 26 years of office experience and really focus in on creating a professional image. This could include:
So, I guess I will keep you posted on the meeting tonight. Wish me luck!
I am also a dog trainer and my business, Sunshine Canine, is listed - incorrectly I might add - in the yellow pages as a veterinary hospital. How? I have no idea. Anyway, I received a resume from a kid looking for a job over the weekend. I took a look at her resume and I was very underwhelmed. Basically, the only information I gained about her was her name, address, phone number, email address and a picture. All of the rest of the information was pretty much useless. She said she went to school for Equestrian Studies. Ok, well, not being a big horse person, I don't have any idea what that would include. So I sent her some suggestions on how to improve her resume. Hopefully she didn't just delete my email and not try to improve it.
I have really been thinking about this image consultant career and where I could find my niche. Besides preferring to focus on plus and full figured women, I believe that I could draw on my 26 years of office experience and really focus in on creating a professional image. This could include:
- reworking your resume,
- creating a professional business card,
- creating a professional interview and work wardrobe,
- coaching on appropriate behavior in the office,
- coaching on appropriate travel behavior
- coaching on business presentations - the outfit and the actual presentation itself.
So, I guess I will keep you posted on the meeting tonight. Wish me luck!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Got My InStyle Magazine
So excited!! I got my March 2011 InStyle Magazine today with 500 pages of Spring Fashion in it. It's sitting right next to me and I keep putting off looking at it because I know once I dive in it will be hours before I come back out for air!!
Last fall I looked through the magazine at least 20 times. Picked out the upcoming trends and ideas that could be translated into plus size fashion. I even picked out a couple of ads from the magazine and recreated the look in a much less expensive version that was tweaked for my full figure.
Ok. I'm going in.
Last fall I looked through the magazine at least 20 times. Picked out the upcoming trends and ideas that could be translated into plus size fashion. I even picked out a couple of ads from the magazine and recreated the look in a much less expensive version that was tweaked for my full figure.
Ok. I'm going in.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Audrey Smaltz - She may be my new hero
I saw this posted by Fashion To Figure on Twitter the other day. I took the time to really watch and listen to the interview today.
She is so right, you have to come out of your box. You have to believe in yourself. You have to work hard. You have to Net Work. You have to study.
I guess when I am feeling like I can't do this, I need to just watch this inspiring video.
I saw this posted by Fashion To Figure on Twitter the other day. I took the time to really watch and listen to the interview today.
She is so right, you have to come out of your box. You have to believe in yourself. You have to work hard. You have to Net Work. You have to study.
I guess when I am feeling like I can't do this, I need to just watch this inspiring video.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Kiyonna Wrap Arrived!!
My Kiyonna Wrap arrived!! I have been anxiously awaiting its arrival. And for whatever reasons the fates have dreamed up, the full picture of the whole outfit that my son took for me and posted on facebook yesterday has disappeared. So all I have is this picture I took of myself in the bathroom. The whole outfit looked great and I felt great in it. And it wasn't all that expensive.
The Kiyonna Parisian wrap was $65
I bought a pair of Riders By Lee Slender Stretch Mid-Rise boot cut jeans in black and blue, each was only $19.88!!
I had a black shapeware camisole from Fashion Bug that was $16.99
And then a pair of black boots that my daughter gave me for Christmas, I'm guessing those were about $50.
Total for the outfit, not including the jewelry, was $151.87 - Not Bad!!
The Kiyonna Parisian wrap was $65
I bought a pair of Riders By Lee Slender Stretch Mid-Rise boot cut jeans in black and blue, each was only $19.88!!
I had a black shapeware camisole from Fashion Bug that was $16.99
And then a pair of black boots that my daughter gave me for Christmas, I'm guessing those were about $50.
Total for the outfit, not including the jewelry, was $151.87 - Not Bad!!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Fit For A Queen Boutique
I wanted to share a local Plus Size Boutique here in the Chattanooga area. Fit For A Queen Boutique is a great store. She has all plus sizes and junior plus! And all her prices are terrific! She has name brand clothing by Sealed With A Kiss (SWAK), IGigi, Kiyonna and many, many more! I love to drive down there and play dress up with all of her beautiful clothes. And, she will special order stuff for you, if you need it.
She is getting into Prom Dresses and dresses for special occasions like weddings, ceremonies, etc too!!
Below is the link for a piece she did on Channel 3 here in Chattanooga:
Fit For A Queen Video on Channel 3
Fit For a Queen is located at 7333 Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, TN - In between the Bonnie Oaks and Shallowford Rd exits on Hwy 75.
They are a must see for beatiful, quality and reasonably priced clothing.
(And, no, she didn't pay me to say all of these nice things! I just love her store.)
She is getting into Prom Dresses and dresses for special occasions like weddings, ceremonies, etc too!!
Below is the link for a piece she did on Channel 3 here in Chattanooga:
Fit For A Queen Video on Channel 3
Fit For a Queen is located at 7333 Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, TN - In between the Bonnie Oaks and Shallowford Rd exits on Hwy 75.
They are a must see for beatiful, quality and reasonably priced clothing.
(And, no, she didn't pay me to say all of these nice things! I just love her store.)
Thursday, February 3, 2011
A little about me.
I have to admit something. I am no fashion "expert"! Aw, that felt good. I am a very driven person, though. And I want to share my story over the last 5 years or so. That way you know where I am coming from.
I am the mother of 2 wonderful kids. I lived with their father for 14 years before taking back my and my kids lives. Without bashing him too badly, I would just like to say that he is an alcoholic and consistently chose the bar and his buddies there over his family. Anyone that has ever lived with an alcoholic knows the chaos and unrest that comes with that. Enough said on that subject.
So almost 5 years ago, the kids and I packed up our entire lives and moved 850 miles from Texas to Tennessee. Before you ask why, my mother lives here. And the cost of living is affordable for a single mother. We stayed with my Mom for 2 months and then we moved into a house of our own that we rent from my mother.
And so began the healing process. When I unpacked my 2 boxes of clothes, I found that I had crew neck tshirts, the horrid mom jeans (pleated at the top, tapered at the bottom), sweatshirts and sneakers. That was my entire wardrobe. Pathetic. Considering that when I was in highschool, fashion was my bread and water. I wanted to go to school for fashion merchandising, but never got to go.
What I did after high school was start working in offices. Accounts receivable, assistant manager, insurance, and currently I work as the Distance Manager for an online company and executive administrative assistant for the owners of that company. I did go to school, eventually. I have an Associates Degree as a Paralegal.
During the healing process that I mentioned before, I started feeling better about myself. I made a significant change in my life. I removed my kids from a toxic environment and I was showing them a better way to live. As I started feeling better about myself, I wanted to start showing that on the outside. I wanted to look better too.
I discovered that my body was considerably different from when I was in my 20's. I didn't know how to dress this new body that had been changed by gaining weight and having 2 children. So, I started studying. I watched every style show I could find. I bought every book I could find about dressing my body. I tried to convince my friends and family to turn me in to one of the style shows like "How Do I Look?" and "What Not To Wear". I soon realized that the odds of me making it on one of those shows was slim to none. So then I decided I would hire a stylist to help me through this. Hah!! Wow are they expensive! On my income, there was no way I could afford that. So, it was back to the books, the internet and the style shows.
I figured it out, finally! And then I asked myself, "How many other women struggle with this same issue?" I know that I am not the only one. I also know that I am a little more driven to put in the time and effort to figure it out. I work from home. I have experience in research and pulling information together. I have resources other women may not have.
So naturally my journey has progressed to the next logical phase. How do I share what I have learned with other women that are having the same issues? Yes, there are lots of Plus size blogs out there. Yes, there are lots of plus size fashion tips out there. The problem is that a lot of them are for high end designers. You know what that means – Expensive! There are some really good sites out there, please don’t misunderstand me. I found some really great sites and I will definitely share those with you. I can’t see any reason to reinvent the wheel, so to speak.
I am still working on my niche. So as I continue to write this blog and share my thoughts, you may notice I change and create and tweak things as I go.
I am going to start out with writing the blog and sharing my thoughts as I go. I am working on a monthly newsletter that will address a particular subject each month. I will send that out this weekend. As I find good deals and sales on clothing, I will share those through Twitter.
I would like to offer my services to those of you that would like me to go shopping with you to find a perfect outfit for a special event or occasion. I promise I will not charge you an unreasonable or outrageous amount for my company and services. I would love to help you with a wardrobe analysis. We can go through your closet to see what you should keep and what should be donated.
Of course, I am always open to suggestions about what YOU would like to read about. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy and use all of the information that I am sharing with you.
I am the mother of 2 wonderful kids. I lived with their father for 14 years before taking back my and my kids lives. Without bashing him too badly, I would just like to say that he is an alcoholic and consistently chose the bar and his buddies there over his family. Anyone that has ever lived with an alcoholic knows the chaos and unrest that comes with that. Enough said on that subject.
So almost 5 years ago, the kids and I packed up our entire lives and moved 850 miles from Texas to Tennessee. Before you ask why, my mother lives here. And the cost of living is affordable for a single mother. We stayed with my Mom for 2 months and then we moved into a house of our own that we rent from my mother.
And so began the healing process. When I unpacked my 2 boxes of clothes, I found that I had crew neck tshirts, the horrid mom jeans (pleated at the top, tapered at the bottom), sweatshirts and sneakers. That was my entire wardrobe. Pathetic. Considering that when I was in highschool, fashion was my bread and water. I wanted to go to school for fashion merchandising, but never got to go.
What I did after high school was start working in offices. Accounts receivable, assistant manager, insurance, and currently I work as the Distance Manager for an online company and executive administrative assistant for the owners of that company. I did go to school, eventually. I have an Associates Degree as a Paralegal.
During the healing process that I mentioned before, I started feeling better about myself. I made a significant change in my life. I removed my kids from a toxic environment and I was showing them a better way to live. As I started feeling better about myself, I wanted to start showing that on the outside. I wanted to look better too.
I discovered that my body was considerably different from when I was in my 20's. I didn't know how to dress this new body that had been changed by gaining weight and having 2 children. So, I started studying. I watched every style show I could find. I bought every book I could find about dressing my body. I tried to convince my friends and family to turn me in to one of the style shows like "How Do I Look?" and "What Not To Wear". I soon realized that the odds of me making it on one of those shows was slim to none. So then I decided I would hire a stylist to help me through this. Hah!! Wow are they expensive! On my income, there was no way I could afford that. So, it was back to the books, the internet and the style shows.
I figured it out, finally! And then I asked myself, "How many other women struggle with this same issue?" I know that I am not the only one. I also know that I am a little more driven to put in the time and effort to figure it out. I work from home. I have experience in research and pulling information together. I have resources other women may not have.
So naturally my journey has progressed to the next logical phase. How do I share what I have learned with other women that are having the same issues? Yes, there are lots of Plus size blogs out there. Yes, there are lots of plus size fashion tips out there. The problem is that a lot of them are for high end designers. You know what that means – Expensive! There are some really good sites out there, please don’t misunderstand me. I found some really great sites and I will definitely share those with you. I can’t see any reason to reinvent the wheel, so to speak.
I am still working on my niche. So as I continue to write this blog and share my thoughts, you may notice I change and create and tweak things as I go.
I am going to start out with writing the blog and sharing my thoughts as I go. I am working on a monthly newsletter that will address a particular subject each month. I will send that out this weekend. As I find good deals and sales on clothing, I will share those through Twitter.
I would like to offer my services to those of you that would like me to go shopping with you to find a perfect outfit for a special event or occasion. I promise I will not charge you an unreasonable or outrageous amount for my company and services. I would love to help you with a wardrobe analysis. We can go through your closet to see what you should keep and what should be donated.
Of course, I am always open to suggestions about what YOU would like to read about. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy and use all of the information that I am sharing with you.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Rock Those Curves, Ladies!!
I just watched a great video of Mia-Amber Davis, Editor At Large for Plus Model Magazine!! She is presenting plus sized dresses that range in prices from $17.99 to $195.00. Beautiful, colorful and form fitting dresses that make a full-figured woman's body look amazing!!
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/shows/10-show/Strut_their_Stuff_Philadelphia-114822014.html
I wish I could embed the video, but I couldn't. It is worth the 5 minutes to watch it.
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/shows/10-show/Strut_their_Stuff_Philadelphia-114822014.html
I wish I could embed the video, but I couldn't. It is worth the 5 minutes to watch it.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Great Consignment Store in Cleveland, TN
I apologize for the busy-ness of the picture to begin with. I decided to check out a local consignment store to see if they had plus sizes and was pleasantly surprised at what I found there.
Not only were they very organized and neat, the clothes are in terrific condition and displayed in a very organized and easy to find manner. And, I am happy to report, they do have a whole section, basically a room, of plus or women's sizes!!! Yay!! I happened to visit them on a terrific day too because they were having an incredible sale. They also have fitting rooms so you can try the clothes on!!!!
I bought those pants you see above for $.97. Yes, for less than $1, I bought a pair of lightweight Jaclyn Smith trousers. These will be great for the summer and I won't have to let the hem out because they are already perfectly long. They were originally priced for $6.99 and then marked down to $3.50 and then with the sale, I bought them for $.97!!
So, for all of you full figured women in the Cleveland, TN area - check out Prior Attire located at 2520 Keith Street #2, Cleveland, TN 37312. They are located next to the Smoothie King. Great place to shop for quality low priced clothing. Or you can visit their website at www.ShopPriorAttire.com for more information.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
How to tailor a t-shirt
I found this instructional video on sewing darts into a tshirt and I thought I would share it with you. After I finish posting this, I am off to buy me a new sewing machine so I can try it out.
This is a great idea for fixing up all those boxy tshirts we all have. Creating the darts will help the tshirt to skim over your body, without it being too tight and without making you look like you are twice as wide as you actually are.
This is a great idea for fixing up all those boxy tshirts we all have. Creating the darts will help the tshirt to skim over your body, without it being too tight and without making you look like you are twice as wide as you actually are.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Dang it! Technology can be a blessing and a bane. I just spent the last 30 minutes creating my blog for today, complete with pictures and videos. When I finished it and tried to post it, boom, it was gone.
So, I will start again, minus the video.
Today I have been obsessing over women bikers. I have crawled all over the internet trying to find any kind of fashion blog or tips for women bikers, whether they be the kind that ride their own bikes or as passengers. I did not find any sites or blogs specific to women bikers. I did stumble across a couple that are dedicated to helping women who ride their own bikes with tips about riding and mentoring. Great stuff! I even signed up for a couple of the websites newsletters. But, that was not what I was looking for.
I have been around motorcycles my whole life. My father rides, my step-father, my sister, my ex-husband and, of course, me. I have been riding my own motorcycle for the last 17 years. And for most of that time, I have worn the "biker uniform" of jeans, tshirts, leather jacket, chaps, and boots. Most of the clothing serves a purpose - too keep us safe and warm.
But I got to thinking about the fact that I don't look that great in those clothes. Being a fuller figured women, I don't look good in acid washed jeans. Having a large chest - I really don't look good in boxy crew neck tshirts. I look even worse in men's leather jackets and chaps. In fact, I look like a man with boobs when I was dressed for riding.
When I am on my motorcycle I feel sexy, empowered, beautiful, strong and dare I say it? Powerful! When I get off my motorcycle and walk away, not so much. In fact, I feel more like a man than a woman - I even have that man swagger going on. You know what I am talking about - dragging your heels, pelvis thrust foward, shoulders hunched over and that sway from side to side when you walk!! LOL :)
I started thinking, "Why can't I feel sexy, empowered, beautiful, strong and powerful when I get off the bike?" Why do I have to dress like a man when I am riding? Years ago, there weren't many options for women when it came to dressing safely and warmly when we were riding. If we wanted to ride, we bought what was available in our size in men's stuff.
We don't have to do that anymore. I have two problems when it comes to finding outer gear for riding. 1 - I am a woman, 2 - I am plus sized. That combination makes it rather hard to find jackets and chaps that are cut for a woman.
For some reason, even in the biker world, designers and stores only want to create for the size 4 woman. Did you know that the average American woman is size 14?! They sure are missing out on that market. But the market is growing and changing for the plus sized woman, Thank God!
Anyway, I was able to find one pair of chaps that was cut for a woman's body. They even have extra zippers and an expandable fabric sewn into them. I thought that was so terrific!! I am 5' 9 1/2". I have always had to wear men's chaps so they would be long enough. The problem with that is men don't have thighs, they barely have butts. Women, on the other hand, definately do.
Jackets were a little tougher. I am, shall we say, very large in the chest area (DDD to be exact) so finding a jacket that doesn't make me look like a very large blackberry is difficult. I set out with one requirement - it had to have a belt to accentuate the waist. I found two. One didn't come in my size and the other, thankfully, did. Although the jacket I was able to buy doesn't have a belt, it does have elastic that serves the same purpose. Here are pictures of my finds.
The jacket came from HotLeathers.com and the chaps came from LeatherUp.com.
Have you had some of the same problems find gear? Let me know where you were able to find stuff to fit you.
So, I will start again, minus the video.
Today I have been obsessing over women bikers. I have crawled all over the internet trying to find any kind of fashion blog or tips for women bikers, whether they be the kind that ride their own bikes or as passengers. I did not find any sites or blogs specific to women bikers. I did stumble across a couple that are dedicated to helping women who ride their own bikes with tips about riding and mentoring. Great stuff! I even signed up for a couple of the websites newsletters. But, that was not what I was looking for.
I have been around motorcycles my whole life. My father rides, my step-father, my sister, my ex-husband and, of course, me. I have been riding my own motorcycle for the last 17 years. And for most of that time, I have worn the "biker uniform" of jeans, tshirts, leather jacket, chaps, and boots. Most of the clothing serves a purpose - too keep us safe and warm.
But I got to thinking about the fact that I don't look that great in those clothes. Being a fuller figured women, I don't look good in acid washed jeans. Having a large chest - I really don't look good in boxy crew neck tshirts. I look even worse in men's leather jackets and chaps. In fact, I look like a man with boobs when I was dressed for riding.
When I am on my motorcycle I feel sexy, empowered, beautiful, strong and dare I say it? Powerful! When I get off my motorcycle and walk away, not so much. In fact, I feel more like a man than a woman - I even have that man swagger going on. You know what I am talking about - dragging your heels, pelvis thrust foward, shoulders hunched over and that sway from side to side when you walk!! LOL :)
I started thinking, "Why can't I feel sexy, empowered, beautiful, strong and powerful when I get off the bike?" Why do I have to dress like a man when I am riding? Years ago, there weren't many options for women when it came to dressing safely and warmly when we were riding. If we wanted to ride, we bought what was available in our size in men's stuff.
We don't have to do that anymore. I have two problems when it comes to finding outer gear for riding. 1 - I am a woman, 2 - I am plus sized. That combination makes it rather hard to find jackets and chaps that are cut for a woman.
For some reason, even in the biker world, designers and stores only want to create for the size 4 woman. Did you know that the average American woman is size 14?! They sure are missing out on that market. But the market is growing and changing for the plus sized woman, Thank God!
Anyway, I was able to find one pair of chaps that was cut for a woman's body. They even have extra zippers and an expandable fabric sewn into them. I thought that was so terrific!! I am 5' 9 1/2". I have always had to wear men's chaps so they would be long enough. The problem with that is men don't have thighs, they barely have butts. Women, on the other hand, definately do.
Jackets were a little tougher. I am, shall we say, very large in the chest area (DDD to be exact) so finding a jacket that doesn't make me look like a very large blackberry is difficult. I set out with one requirement - it had to have a belt to accentuate the waist. I found two. One didn't come in my size and the other, thankfully, did. Although the jacket I was able to buy doesn't have a belt, it does have elastic that serves the same purpose. Here are pictures of my finds.
The jacket came from HotLeathers.com and the chaps came from LeatherUp.com.
Have you had some of the same problems find gear? Let me know where you were able to find stuff to fit you.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
My First Fashion Blog
Being a full-figured woman, I struggle to find affordable clothes that are flattering to my body. My goal with this blog is to point out fashionable clothing at affordable prices. And, of course, have some fun doing it.
Along the way, I hope to throw in a few styling tips to help you to look better affordably.
Today, I purchased what some would call a "staple" piece for my wardrobe. Yes, it was a little more than I would normally spend but I did get 20% off my purchase, which made it worth it to me. Sometimes, you do need to spend a little bit more to get the quality items that will last forever.
Along the way, I hope to throw in a few styling tips to help you to look better affordably.
Today, I purchased what some would call a "staple" piece for my wardrobe. Yes, it was a little more than I would normally spend but I did get 20% off my purchase, which made it worth it to me. Sometimes, you do need to spend a little bit more to get the quality items that will last forever.
Kiyonna Parisian Perfect Wrap
$64
Click on the picture and it will take you right to Kiyonna.com so you can order it.
I have been eyeing this piece for quite some time and decided to take the pluge when I got the 20% off coupon. A lightweight caridgan, especially in the wrap design is every full-figured woman's best friend! And you can wear with jeans or a pencil skirt, making it a multi-purpose item. Yay!
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