Surprising Finds...Year End Review

               This year has been a great year for finding new clothing stores. I was in a rut for a few years with only picking up clothing from a few different stores. This year through reading other blogs I found some great finds at surprising stores.

Sears

                I read about their UK Style by French Connection line last fall and thought I would check it out and I was quite impressed with what I found. I ended up buying a few pieces from their other lines though. If you haven’t considered Sears for clothing before it might be worth a try. The Kardashian Kurves line is out now with a few cute pieces, hopefully they will be offering more clothing though.

JCPenny

                I just went to JCP a few weeks ago because I was looking at their website and I found a great selection for workout wear. Many of the pieces could be worn as casual clothing around town. The selection is very impressive and the price points are even better. Something I hate is when there is a great selection online but nothing in store. My one visit to a local store brought amazing results. The pieces I loved online were available in store. I love to try clothing on before buying it, now that I know how the workout clothing fits I will feel confident to buy the collection online. I didn’t look too much at the other clothing in the plus size department since I was just looking for active wear at the time. What I saw in passing was pretty cute though.

             Both of these stores have done a great job redefining their clothing departments especially their plus size lines. I love finding new stores that are easily available because it can be harder to find good plus size clothing in stores. I am looking forward to shopping both of these stores next year!

If any of you have a store that I should check out let me know! What are your thoughts on Sears and JCPenny? 

November Ipsy Review

               So I don’t know about you but I am new to the concept of the monthly subscription boxes. I don’t know how I missed such a huge trend in beauty! I looked at a few different programs and I decided after watching some You Tube videos to choose Ipsy (previously MyGlam). It is $10 a month and they send you a makeup bag and 5 products to try.

                I just received my first bag (the November collection). After watching so many videos on previous bags I wasn’t sure how I would feel about what I would receive. I have to say I am really happy with this bag. The cosmetic bag is a chocolate brown satin bag with a gold zipper. The size of the bag is perfect for inside a purse or to use as an impromptu clutch.

             Inside was an eye liner from Starlet Cosmetics in Chocolate. Right off the bat I don’t think I will like it. It is a pencil you have to sharpen. I usually find them not soft enough. My initial reaction is that it isn't as bad as I first thought; I probably wouldn't buy it though.

            The next item is Bare Minerals Moxie lip gloss in Dare Devil which is a deep berry. The gloss goes on very sheer but you can build to a darker color if you want. For me one swipe is a great wash of color. This was my first time using the Moxie gloss I have used Buxom in the past and have loved it. Another win for BE

             Next is my favorite product from the bag. Nailtini Nail lacquer in Millionaire. Which is rose gold small sparkle with gold long sparkles and teal long sparkles mixed together. You mostly see the gold. I have never heard of the brand but I love the concept and it is full size and is worth $13. Just this product makes the Ipsy bag so worth it.

            Meet Matt(e) eyeshadow by The Balm. It is a cute one color sample in Matt Batali. It is a deep brown that will be great in the out corner. I have never used any makeup from The Balm so I am excited to try the shadow. The color can be found in a collection called Meet Matt(e) which looks really good especially if you need to add more matte colors to your collection.

             The last item is an eyebrow gel by Chella. With the bag you could have gotten the eyebrow gel or mascara from Benefit (which I wish I would have gotten). My eyebrows are blond and fairly sparce. So I don’t have a great need for a gel. I am curious about this line they have a system to help grown your eye brows called Brow Full- Fillment Eyebrow Treatment for $90. So if any of you have tried this or have any other great eyebrow things let me know

            I was a little unsure about how I would like the products sent to me but overall I am super pleased with everything! I am looking forward to next month!

What do you guys think of monthly beauty subscriptions? Any advice for my blonde eyebrows? I have tried some pencils but I don’t the color looks natural with my red hair. 

Please visit Ipsy for more information about how they work and about the products I mentioned above. 

Where to Find Fashion Inspiration

 As a teen I felt alone in finding clothing to fit my body but now with so many amazing blogs, stores, and magazines for plus size women there is inspiration everywhere.

I love to search blogs and online stores for ideas of what is really popular right now. Sometimes seeing an interesting outfit or an aspiration look gets me excited and looking in my closet for a way to recreate the looks, or just out of a rut of wearing the same thing everyday. 

My go to inspiration is also makeup and jewelry. Looking at your own collection or seeing what someone else has worn can begin to shape a whole new look for yourself. I have recently rediscovered my love for my makeup. I found a great blog Beauty Broadcast and You Tube channel by Emily, she has gotten back into drugstore makeup and has good advice about which brand and products are good. As a college student I have a very limited budget so I have been able to buy a few more things then I probably would have at a place like Sephora. Going on sites like Bauble Bar are fun to see trends in jewelry (plus they have great prices).

I also have found Pinterest a great source of inspiration not just for clothing, trends and styling things but also for decorating, recipes, and the holidays. Pinterest is so much fun. Now instead of having to save pages or make lists in word it can all go on different boards on Pinterest. I think it is so much fun to see what friends have pinned but also look things up by category. LOVE it , what did we do before Pinterest?

Looking through magazines is still one of my favorite things to do. All types of magazines give me inspiration, beauty and fashion are my favorites though. Home magazines are my next favorite, Country Living makes me so happy.

So where do you find your fashion inspiration? I would love to hear where you always check. 

Jewelry Storage and Display DIY

So I had this really old cork board that I used as a jewelry holder for a few months but as you can see I didn’t even peel off all the old stickers (probably 10 years old). This  was just a quick fix for all of my long necklaces and a way to keep my stuff from getting tangeled.

Then I went on Pinterest (what did we ever do before it), and I  found this idea from Two Twenty One to take fabric and use brass pins to cover any pin board. SO love this idea. After searching other ideas I figured that this was the best idea and most likely to work out for me. So I went to my local dollar store to get the brass pins which this project took most of the container (I believe it was a 200 count container). I bought a fabric that I liked this one is sky blue with white daisies on it. I ironed the fabric and cut it to size leaving about a 2 inch boarder then I took the pins all the way around (it hurt my fingers after a while). I then took regular push pins and organized them in a way that made sense for my jewelry. I think this is a good craft idea for non crafters (like me) this project maybe took me a few hours and would be a nice project to do while watching TV or getting a friend to come over and help you out. Then you could also have fun trying on the jewelry and coming up with different combinations.

I think the final product is great and I am not horrified to have to look at it and keeping my bracelets and necklaces out like this makes it easy to find and keeps me out of “jewelry ruts”. I would love to hear your jewelry storage/display ideas or what your results are if you tried this. 

Since first taking these pics I have added more jewelry and you can see there is still plenty of room to add more. 

e.l.f. Eye Palette Review

I have recently discovered e.l.f. (eyes lips face) cosmetics. I bought the Little Black Beauty Book Python Edition in warm from Target for $6.00 (according to Targets website you can still pick out the palette in store but not online) this palette is not available on eyeslipsface.com but they do have other sets that seem very similar.

I wasn't sure what to expect since I had never purchased anything from this line but I was drawn to the colors since they are mostly neutrals with a few pops of color. I couldn't bring myself to spend around $50 for other neutral eye pallets on the market so this e.l.f. $6 price tag is perfect. If you already have a lot of makeup you don’t need to feel guilty adding more to your collection, if you are just starting out with makeup the colors are a great base collection and will provide a lot of opportunity to play.

While some of the colors aren't the most pigmented and there is a little fallout when applying I am really impressed with this pallet and e.l.f. There is a great amount of dark colors for the outer V of the eye and the crease. The bright colors such as coral, peach, and turquoise show up really well and are so fun to play with. If you are like me I don’t want a large pot of eye color because I like to play so much so the small size of the eye shadows are really great also you don’t need to feel bad if you don’t like the color or it is not that pigmented. There are also a lot of similar colors which I don't mind since they do show up different enough and can add more depth to an eye look. 

A few tips to make this pallet really work for you: use an eye shadow primer first, tap excess product off of your brush before applying it, and gently tap the shadow especially really dark colors.

Since getting this pallet I have been trying to find out what else is good by this brand. If you have any suggestions of other great e.l.f. items I should try please let me know. 

Picture courtesy of Target.com, This is the Little Black Beauty Book Python Edition: Warm $6

Plus Size Styling

      Sorry for not updating in forever. I had a big move in the end of May and summer classes that have just ended. I hate it when blogs aren't updated on a regular basis, so I am going to try and keep this thing going. Classes just ended I have about 3 weeks off until fall semester starts. One of my class projects really has me feeling inspired now.

      Our final project was to style our own photo shoot. Previously I took a class where I worked as a team to style 2 different shoots, but all on my own was a new experience. I found a great location in my hometown, I cute little garden that's inside a park. When I was a kid and they first started the garden it was really small, now it has developed into this gorgeous garden with lots of cute benches, trees, and flowers. Anyways so once I found my location I decided my theme for my photo shoot would be what I imagine wearing to a proper garden party. Think skirts, dresses and lots of floral prints.
      I begged my sister to be my model (not really she said yes right away), dug through my closet and all my jewelry and I came up with what I think are some great looks. The original concept for this project was to take vintage and modern and mix them together. That is why skirts and dresses came to my mind because I feel like we dress so casually now. So on a sunny Sunday morning my sister and I rose early to head to the garden before the park got really busy. We had to traipse back and forth to my car and restroom a lot for my sister to change.
      I think the project turned out well. and I am now excited to keep pursuing styling. I am hoping once a month to create a styling photo shoot.

Tanesha Featured in June's Glamour

Tanesha in her coral blazer! 

http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/22584173851/glamour-feature-june-2012-issue

Glamour asked Tanesha what her favorite blazer was, she told them it is a pastel coral. Everyone needs a blazer, but black can be boring. You really don’t want to be boring in the spring and summer. Choosing a colored blazer doesn’t have to be just for the spring and summer so it doesn’t have to be too trendy.

If the idea of wearing head to toe color is too much for you, just add a pop of color. An unexpected way to do this would be with a blazer. Wearing neutrals is how most people dress and the way to get the most out of your wardrobe. Having a few pieces that are fun colors such as a blazer or a t-shirt is how to stay fresh and stay on trend without leaving your comfort zone. If you buy one piece that is in the seasons hottest color which right now it is in the coral/tangerine family. Might as well buy a piece that can be worn many different ways such as a blazer. Which can be worn to work, casually on the weekend and dressed up for date night. 

I love the idea of a coral blazer, thanks for the inspiration Tanesha. 

Congrats to Tanesha for being featured in Glamour Magazine. Love it!! See more about Tanesha in Glamour here. 

How To Find The Perfect Special Occasion Dress

Tanesha Awasthi in a midi dress 

http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/22379363459/pretty-midi

Dressing for a special occasion can be very intimidating especially if you are not comfortable with your size to begin with. 

Take some advice from Tanesha and find something that fits you well. The navy midi length dress she is wearing is flattering for many reasons. The silhouette is perfect for any curvy girl, fitting the most closely at the smallest part of the body which is typically under the bust. Having a belt or other detailing at the smallest point will bring attention there instead of other areas that you may want to camouflage.  Finding a dress with interest by the face is a great way to bring attention up. Choosing a darker color can help you feel confident, but you don’t always need to choose black. Navy is a nice alternative to black also choosing a print is great. 

The length is nice to because ending the dress around the knee area is faltering and most likely comfortable to wear. Most importantly find a dress that makes you feel good and confident. On you special day you don’t want to be fidgeting with what you are wearing or unsure. Find the right dress for you and own it! Finding this dress may take time but finding inspiration online before you head out the stores may help. 

Take a look at Tanesha's blog for ideas on dresses you may like, she has a lot of good ones that you may like as well. 

Dressing For The Ever Changing Springtime Weather

More about this spring time look from Tanesha Awasthi 

I know I have the summer on my mind but it is still spring time where I live. Half way through the day the temperature changes by about ten degrees. This time of year dressing for any weather is necessary. Light layers are the way to go. Take a basic top (that would be look fine on its own) on top of that pair a light weight cardigan. To add more excitement to the look add a printed scarf.

If you run out for lunch during your break you can peel off your cardigan and the scarf if need be. In the morning when it’s cold having the scarf tied around my neck would be great but by the end of the day having it tied might not be necessary or if the weather really turned warm tying it to your bag might even be a better option. A cardigan that zips or buttons is wonderful option because if the wind picks up or the air conditioning is blasting you can cover up more or vice versa. 

Tanesha has taken a cute top and put a light weight cardigan and topped the layering off with a brightly printed scarf. When layering and working with prints it is always best to keep the bottoms simple. Tanesha is wearing a basic pair of jeans and sandals. I think if you take this inspiration you can easily turn this look into your own and make it appropriate for the different occasions you may need to layer in. 

Visit Tanesha's blog at http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/

Hot Trend: The Maxi Dress

Image care of Tenesa Awasthi from 

http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/22252427360/curvy-girl-maxi-dress-guide

The maxi dress is still a hot trend, so for this season Tanesha found maxi dresses for any occasion you might have coming up. What makes the maxi dress such a popular selection to other dresses is the ease they project. There is also something a little glamourous about a maxi dress even it is just simple solid colored cotton.

The selections that Tanesha found are a maxi for a wedding. This selection is a gorgeous turquoise with a high-low hemline.  This choice would be perfect for a beach wedding or any other casual wedding for the summer.

The date night maxi dress is a one shoulder with an elastic band around the waist. The dress also has a very cute print. This maxi dress is just the right amount of sexy for a date night but still easy to not seem fussy or high maintenance.

Wearing a maxi to the office can be a very hard thing to find. Finding a maxi dress that has a three-quarter length sleeve makes this trend work appropriate. Adding a colored blazer or sweater would make the look more professional and help cope with the air-conditioned offices.

The casual maxi dress would probably be the easiest to find. Select a maxi dress that is flattering an in a fun color. I love that this dress found by Tanesha has a little bit of a cap sleeve making less poolside and more out to lunch or to a movie.

The last event that a maxi dress would work is for the prom. This dress features a high-low hemline and an embellished waistband. If you are going to where killer shoes why not let people see them?

The weather is getting warmer and slipping into an easy dress like the maxi sounds like the best outfit. 

See Tanesha's blog here. 

Weekend Basic Is Anything But Boring

See more about Tanesha at  http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/22119216612/weekend-basics   

 Weekend casual dressing is one of my favorite looks to create. Especially jeggings and leggings they are so comfy but still look fashionable (as long as worn the right way). What makes the outfit that Tanesha created for a casual weekend look is all in the accessories.

  The basic part of the outfit is a sleeveless top and jeggings. Adding a printed long scarf creates a much stronger impact then a necklace ever could. A bold bangle will be a great way to add jewelry to your look and also to add coverage to the arm. Bold rings are another way to add something unexpected to a basic outfit. Bold rings just don’t need to be saved for the evening anymore.

  The big question is what kind of shoe? A flat sandal and a simple bag finish up the look. Creating a basic look can sometimes look sloppy or too simple. By taking this as a starting point I think many great looks could be made. If you feel like any outfit looks to boring always adding bold accessories is the way to pop any outfit.  

Visit Tanesha's blog for more inspiration http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/

Interview Time

I had a chance to ask Tanesha from Girl With Curves to ask her a few questions about fashion, her personal style, curvy fashion, and her influences. I love knowing more about other people who love fashion and how they create their own looks. If you want to look at her blog I highly recommend it. I love Tanesha's style and  I think you will too!! 

What made you want to start your blog?

I needed a creative outlet outside my full-time job in the Tech field.

What is your favorite piece in your closet right now?

A coral-tone blazer.

What is your favorite trend for right now?

Bold color.

What is the best tip you can give someone who is curvy and wants update their wardrobe?

Start building your wardrobe with versatile pieces like great jeans, a peep toe pump, flats and a blazer.  From there, add in your own style accessories.

What is your favorite type of clothing to shop for?

Blazers.

What is your favorite accessory?

Rings.

How do you come up with the looks from your blog?

I wear what I like :)

What is the most commonly used clothing item/accessory in your blog?

Blazers!

Do you focus your look around one item or the whole when you create an outfit?

I often start with the shoes and work my way up.

Which designer would you choose to make your dream outfit? Why?

Michael Kors- he knows how to make sexy clothing, without being overt and tacky.  He keeps it classy.

What is your favorite store to shop at? 

Forever 21, hands-down.

Have you ever gotten caught up in a sale and bought something you regretted or a trend that you

followed and didn’t work?

Yes!  I bought an LV bag from a consignment shop ended-up never wearing it, so I sold it on eBay!

How would you define your style?

Classic with a twist.

What is your favorite fashion decade? 

The 50's and 60's

Who are your style icons? 

Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, Olivia Palermo

What movie has your favorite fashion?

Definitely Breakfast at Tiffany's!

Do you think living in the bay area it is harder for curvier women then other parts of the country? 

I think women in the UK have the best selection of Plus Size clothing, compared to women in the US.

What is your favorite season style wise? 

Spring!

Who is your favorite designer or your favorite brand? 

I love Michael Kors and Max Azria

Thank You so much Tanesha for answering my questions, please check out her blog at girlwithcurves.tumblr.com

Curvy Girls Swim Suit Guide

http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/21321115299/curvy-girl-swimsuit-guide

Summer is approaching and many of you might have already gone on a trip for the spring and noticed your swimsuit from last year (or much older then that) not longer looks great. Playing up trends with your swimsuit is a great way to enjoy wearing the suit and give you confidence poolside. My favorite trends can be found at http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/21321115299/curvy-girl-swimsuit-guide

Tanesha found some flattering swimsuits for curvy girls. Wearing a swimsuit that fits well and flatters your shape is the best way to feel confident in your swimsuit. Patterns are a big trend in swimsuits but you don't have to just wear a dated floral now animal prints are found in swimsuits. If you love to rock animal prints in your regular clothes why not add it to your swimsuit. I am so loving the idea of leopard print at the beach.

Another amazing look that will fatter everyone is detailing in your swimsuit, like ruching and ruffles. Ruching is an amazing way to disguise a less then muscular midsection and such a great way to add interest to your swimsuit. With ruffles they will bring attention upwards around your neckline detracting from other areas of the body you may not want people focusing on.

Whatever swimsuit you choose know you look great and enjoy the nice weather!
To find out more about the swimsuits pictured above go to:
http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/21321115299/curvy-girl-swimsuit-guide

I have only recently discovered the amazing blogs out there. One blogger I instantly fell for was Girl With Curves. http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/ she has an amazing sense of style.

courtesy Tanesha Awasthi http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/

Tanesha doesn't take fashion to seriously and often breaks the rules. She also posts outfits that range from designer to thrift finds, which I love. Not everyone can afford designer clothing (often designers don't have plus size lines) and what makes fashion so fun is mixing high and low together.
If you haven't already found Tanesha on your own please check out her blog. I think you will find her blog inspiring too.
http://girlwithcurves.tumblr.com/post/20346015287/sophistication-with-a-twist is a link to one of my favorite looks of hers.