Transitioning from winter to spring and summer as far as clothing goes can be a really tough thing. The must have outfits are so very different from spring and especially summer and keeping up with these changes is expensive. With summer just around the corner it is essential to know how to choose the right summer clothing and get out your boots and into flip flops. With summer comes lots of heat so you need think about wearing light and breathable cloting to avoid looking sweaty.

Tank tops can come into their own in summer, instead of being hidden away you can wear them with some cute tight jeans. Tank tops are perfect for the warm weather because they look cute and keep you cool and you can always wear a bikini underneath for that beach look.

If you have a petit frame then rompers should be in your wardrobe for summer. You will see rompers on the high street in many different forms for example sleeveless and tube tops. If you’re worried about the amount of skin you are showing you could wear a tight round neck t-shirt underneath. If you have the pleasure of being tall and thin then think hippy skirts this summer. Don’t be put off by the name hippy skirts they very coming back into fashion with their huge range in colours. They can be worn with a t-shirt or any sleeveless top of your choice. Hippy skirts are the type of clothing you’ll enjoy wearing on a hot summer day or if you’re want a more surf look you could wear board shorts.

Shopping with a purpose is important so that you don’t end up wasting money by buying clothing that you won’t wear. I have the most fun shopping when buying spontaneous items however I always think about whats going to suit my figure.

This season, it’s easy to look fashion-forward without spending a lot of money. Here are 7 tips to help you look great this fall without breaking the bank.

1. Wardrobe staples. If you are watching your pennies, you aren’t the only one. The trends on the runway for this autumn seem to be reflecting everyone’s need to scale back on spending. The collections of many designers are encompassing a back-to-basics theme with clean, simple lines and good wardrobe pieces. Luxury department stores are running some generous promotions this season, as well. You’ll find coupons and discounts, as well as quite a few free-gift-with-purchase promotions. Check out the current Saks Fifth Avenue promotions as well as Macy’s online promotions and price drops.

2. Color. Black is still a very fashionable color, especially when paired with splashes of bright colors. Black, grey and white are dominating the runway, so be prepared to see that reflected in the palette in the department stores. You’ll also be seeing some deep purples as well as a bit of a flashback to the 1980s, with some bright color trends.

3. Leather and suede. One of the biggest trends for fall is leather and suede, particularly in handbags and jackets. While leather and suede are always in style, this year they are getting some fun updates with quilting, metallic finishes and animal prints.

4. Leggings are making a comeback. Expect to see leggings with long tunics and sweaters. Pair them with ankle boots and chunky jewelry for a fashion-forward look. 

5. Metallics are hot, whether it’s a full-fledged lame fabric or just a shimmery sheen to stretchy fabrics. You’ll see more metallics in the department store in the form of accessories and full outfits. Update your look by adding a few pieces of flashy metallic jewelry or investing in separates with a subtle shine.

6. Outrageous accessories. It’s easy to dress up your simple outfits with bold accessories. Large necklaces, big bracelets, hats and unique boots will all be part of fall trends. Even if clothing designs seem a little subdued, accessories definitely are not. Check out the latest online jewelry discounts and coupons here.

7. Denim is always popular and this fall shows two very different approaches. First, dark denim with wide legs is going to be a very big trend heading into the colder months. Darker denim fabrics flatter nearly everyone and has the added benefit of making your bottom look smaller. On the other end of the spectrum, ripped denim from the 1980s is making a comeback, so don’t throw out those torn jeans just yet!

The best thing about the hot trends this season is this: a few simple, new pieces will coordinate well with the basics that are already hanging in your closet. So you can look modern and stylish without breaking the bank.

plus size fashion trends

Welcome to Summer 2009 ladies! Finally my favorite season is here and in full effect. No more June Gloom! Soon it will be July and it’s all sunshine from there. I figured I would start out the season by going over some plus size fashion “must have” trends for your summer wardrobe by SWAKdesigns.com. These “must have” fashion trends are for every occasion, not just your summer vacation. They are for your everyday activities including work, rest, and play.

The Maxi: Plus size Maxi Dresses are everywhere this season and are a huge fashion trend for summer 2009. If you still think are thinking that you cannot wear a Maxi Dress, think again. With all of the different styles and pattern variations you are sure to find a Plus Size Maxi Dress that is right for your figure. Maxi dresses are the plus size woman’s best friend and work to perfectly conceal some our minor figure flaws in the most figure-flattering way. Flirty, romantic, and stylish, these dresses can be worn for every occasion this summer, from shopping with the girls to a romantic summer night out on the town. Check out the Melody Maxi Dress available in black, purple, coral, and electric blue.

Ruffles: Feminine and flirty ruffles are a definite “must have” fashion trend this season. Look for soft, romantic style blouses and dresses with accents of single to layered ruffles. If not worn right, ruffles can be bad for a plus size person because they tend to emphasize parts of our body that we do not want to call attention to. Stick to ruffles that are small and follow the trim of the garment and they will actually work to elongate your body and give you a slimmer silhouette. Ruffle trim wrap dresses are gorgeous and a perfect “must have” this season. For the perfect ruffled top option check out the Nikki Checkered Plus Size Top available in white/black check or pink/black check.

Work Wear: As divas, we must always dress to impress and dress for success. To stay trendy and cool at work on these hot summer days, opt out on the typical 3-piece suit and go for something with a little less fabric. Vests are a definite "must-have" this summer season and can coordinate with virtually anything. For work pair a vest with a classic white button up shirt and pencil skirt. If you must wear a blazer to work, look for styles with one-button waist closures and narrow lapels made of all-season fabrics like rayon tweeds and light blends. Stay away from the typical black this season and go for perhaps chocolate or khaki this season. Why not be daring and go for white? In the work wear department SWAKdesigns.com has got you covered. Check out the Alicia Plus Size Shirt Dress available in a variety of classic colors or their Classic Fit Trousers in black or tan/brown.

Trendy Active Wear: Anyone who thinks plus-sized women are inactive and do nothing but sit around on their butts all day is dead wrong and should join me and my plus-sized pals for a taste of BOOTCAMP. For plus size women, working out is an everyday activity in order to stay healthy and fit. Wearing comfy, yet attractive active wear helps boost your confidence and makes you feel good while exercising. Looking good, is feeling good. Be sure to choose your active wear wisely. Pick items that are made of breathable fabrics like cotton blends and are not too tight or bulky. Stylish tees, tanks, leggings or bike shorts are good combination’s for day to day workouts, but for pure comfort look into loosely cut plus size yoga wear in bright summer colors. For some super cute, trendy active wear styles check out the new Zen Yoga Wear Collection and the Aimee Plus Size Sweat Pants.

There you have it! Some of the “must have” plus size fashion trends for summer 2009. Please be sure to check our website often as we are adding new items to our summer collection daily. If there is a plus size fashion trend that you feel we are missing out on in our collection, please feel free to leave us a comment below. Happy Summer!

Danielle Line, Guest Writer, Plus Size Model for www.swakdesigns.com

swakdesigns.com

Welcome to Summer 2009 ladies! Finally my favorite season is here and in full effect. No more June Gloom! Soon it will be July and it’s all sunshine from there. I figured I would start out the season by going over some plus size fashion “must have” trends for your summer wardrobe by SWAKdesigns.com. These “must have” fashion trends are for every occasion, not just your summer vacation. They are for your everyday activities including work, rest, and play.

The Maxi: Plus size Maxi Dresses are everywhere this season and are a huge fashion trend for summer 2009. If you still think are thinking that you cannot wear a Maxi Dress, think again. With all of the different styles and pattern variations you are sure to find a Plus Size Maxi Dress that is right for your figure. Maxi Dresses are the perfect dress for any plus size woman and help to conceal any minor figure flaws one may have. Flirty, romantic, and stylish, these dresses can be worn for every occasion this summer, from shopping with the girls to a romantic summer night out on the town. Check out the Melody Maxi Dress available in black, purple, coral, and electric blue.

Ruffles: Feminine and flirty ruffles are a definite “must have” fashion trend this season. Look for soft, romantic style blouses and dresses with accents of single to layered ruffles. If not worn right, ruffles can be bad for a plus size person because they tend to emphasize parts of our body that we do not want to call attention to. Stick to ruffles that are small and follow the trim of the garment and they will actually work to elongate your body and give you a slimmer silhouette. Ruffle trim wrap dresses are gorgeous and a perfect “must have” this season. For the perfect ruffled top option check out the Nikki Checkered Plus Size Top available in white/black check or pink/black check.

Work Wear: As divas, we must always dress to impress and dress for success. To stay trendy and cool at work on these hot summer days, opt out on the typical 3-piece suit and go for something with a little less fabric. Vests are a “must have” this season and can coordinate with virtually anything. For work pair a vest with a classic white button up shirt and pencil skirt. If you must wear a blazer to work, look for styles with one-button waist closures and narrow lapels made of all-season fabrics like rayon tweeds and light blends. Stay away from black this season and go for either khaki or choclate. Why not be daring and go for white? In the work wear department SWAKdesigns.com has got you covered. Check out the Alicia Plus Size Shirt Dress available in a variety of classic colors or their Classic Fit Trousers in black or tan/brown.

Trendy Active Wear: Anyone who thinks plus-sized women are inactive and do nothing but sit around on their butts all day is dead wrong and should join me and my plus-sized pals for a taste of BOOTCAMP. Working out is an everyday activity for plus-sized women in an effort to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Wearing comfy, yet attractive active wear helps boost your confidence and makes you feel good while exercising. Looking good, is feeling good. Be sure to choose your active wear wisely. Pick items that are made of breathable fabrics like cotton blends and are not too tight or bulky. Stylish tees, tanks, leggings or bike shorts are good combination’s for day to day workouts, but for pure comfort look into loosely cut plus size yoga wear in bright summer colors. For some super cute, trendy active wear styles check out the new Zen Yoga Wear Collection and the Aimee Plus Size Sweat Pants.

There you have it! Some of the “must have” plus size fashion trends for summer 2009. Be sure to check out the website often as we are adding new items daily. If there is a plus size fashion trend that you feel we are missing out on in our collection, please feel free to leave us a comment below. Happy Summer!

Danielle Line, Guest Writer, Plus Size Model for www.swakdesigns.com

Fashion trends change every season, but there are certain basic items of girls clothes that everyone wants in their wardrobe. Combining important pieces allows you to create lots of different looks. While denim jeans are the norm in most wardrobes, the style of jeans changes regularly. Fashions change so quickly that the hot thing one year is totally out of fashion the next. While each teen may choose her own style and not care about what is popular, the current trendy styles are what will be found in the stores. Keep up to date with the latest trends through magazines or a quick surf online.

Because of the flexibility of jeans they are a must have basic item. Add a t-shirt, sweater or plain shirt for that casual look along with sneakers or flat shoes. The same jeans can also be dressed up nicely with a fancy blouse or a camisole with a jacket and heels.

Other key wardrobe pieces are tank tops, turtlenecks, khakis, shorts, slacks, skirts, sundresses and blazers. As the seasons change so will the colors of the items. Don’t worry about skirt lengths as short or long tend to stay in fashion at all times.

The quality of girls clothes makes less difference because styles change so quickly. Pick clothes you can afford and not for durability as girls quickly tire of their outfits. Even so, check the label for laundry instructions. Washable clothes are easier and cheaper to maintain than dry clean only.

Experiment to find your own style

One of the nicest things about teen apparel (and of being a teenager in general) is the freedom to experiment. What you wear can be an expression of your personality. You can find jeans in a multitude of colours. Some have decorative rivets, while others display fancy embroidered designs. The way you arrange the pockets can be a decorative statement.

A t-shirt can be a plain solid color with a round neck or a v-neck. It can be striped or patterned. It can display a message, either for or against a cause, showing off its manufacturer or just saying something amusing. The fun about T shirts is you can decide in the style you wear it as to the message you’re trying to portray.

But the biggest part of the teen apparel experiment comes through accessories. You will find them in department stores and speciality stores as well as clothing outlets. When selecting shoes, fit and comfort may be sacrificed to style. This may not be a good tradeoff depending on what activities you plan to pursue while wearing them. It’s important to try on both shoes as all of us have one foot bigger than the other.

Shoes can be made of leather, imitation leather, cloth and other materials. Leather shoes are usually the most expensive, but they last the longest. Before making a big investment in shoes, think about how long you believe they will suit your taste, style and wardrobe and how long you might want to keep wearing them.

The handbag or purse is an important accessory. Modern style gurus no longer require matching your purse to your shoes, so go wild. A backpack or large shoulder bag are ideal for carrying all your gear. For that fab night out get yourself a small glitzy bag. As long as it’s big enough for your keys, lipstick, money and cellphone, it will work. If you plan an active day, forget the bag and go for a belt pouch. They used to be just for athletes, but nowadays they come in different colors and designs like other purses. When the time comes accessorise, spice up your look with jewellery, hats, gloves, belts etc…

BEAUTY ESSENTIALS FOR SPRING

As we transition from winter to spring, we all want to look fresh. Below are the ten must have beauty tips for this spring.

1.       Dark Eyeliner

One of the big trends in spring fashion is the use bold bright colors. To create a dramatic look with all the colorful spring dresses, use black or brown eyeliner on both the top and bottom lash lines.

 

2.       Red Lipstick

To create a fresh clean look that compliments the colorful spring clothing and pink blush trends this year, try using red lipstick.

 

3.       False Eyelashes

For a bold and dramatic look, use false eyelashes at the outer corners of the eyes. It creates a wide eyed glamorous look.

 

4.       Highlighter

Highlighter defines features without having to use a lot of makeup. Apply shimmering highlighter to cheekbones, inner corners of eyes and center of eye lids.

 

5.       Brown Eye Shadow

Enhance and warm up any eye color with brown eye shadow. Use on eye lids and along lower lashes.

 

6.       Hair Accessories

The runways for spring 09 had a variety of hair accessories. Try decorative combs, barrettes or headbands in short to long hair.

 

7.       Brow Pencil

Well groomed brows are always in fashion. Be sure to fill in as necessary with a brow pencil.

 

8.       Shine Hair Spray

Applying a finishing shine hair spray creates a polished rich and glamorous look.

 

9.       Body Cream

To create that desirable all over healthy glow, try applying glowing lotions and creams to arms and legs. Remember to apply to the neck and decollete also. These lotions are cumulative and create a subtle glowing sun kissed look.

 

10.   Rattail Combs

An inexpensive and simple to use too, it is indispensible in creating this season’s messy teased styles.

 

These beauty trends were scene on all the spring 09 fashion runways and can be used easily to create a current and fresh look for spring.