I cannot believe that it is already that time again. Time to transition your summer wardrobe into Fall mode. The magazines are already hitting the stands  with big bold text Fall Fashion Preview, The Best of Fall Fashion, and Top 10 Trends for Fall, but are you ready? The weather outside is definitely telling me that I am not ready, how about you? Believe me, as much as I want to jump into this transition period with 2 feet and enjoy the new Fall trends I just can’t stand to put on the layers and sweat to death. So I did some research and found some great tips and trends that will make this transition from summer to fall as easy as possible.

The transition from summer to fall can make figuring out what to wear pretty hard. We wonder if we can still wear shorts? What about tank tops? and how can we make my favorite summer skirt wearable this season? These are all logical questions during this transition period and I hope to answer some of them.

Layering is a HUGE trend for Fall so as we move into this late summer/early fall transition period the idea is to take some of your more classic summer looks and layer them with more substantial Fall pieces like light weight cardigans, sweaters, and belts. Layering is a simple way to ease into Fall mode during this time and is definitely lighter on the pocket book. Here are a few tips on how to transition some of your “fav” summer looks into new fabulous fall looks.

Let’s start with the ever so popular plus size vest and trouser summer work wear look that we have seen everywhere. For the late summer/early fall transition period try switching the vest out and adding a light weight cardigan over a classic collared shirt. Add a pair of spectator pumps and you are fall-fabulous.

For your favorite plus size summer skirt (plaid is big for fall) and blouse look, try layering the top with a light weight cardigan and some opaque tights. These pieces will instantly turn this summer look into fall. Throw in a patent leather handbag in a darker color and you are ready to go.

How about the basic plus size Khaki pant and blouse look? For this look try adding a solid color light weight v-neck sweater over the blouse and add some chunky large bangles to spice it up.

Lastly we have the “fav” plus size summer dress. With this particular look you need to layer it with a longer cardigan and add a stylish belt. Throw on some boots or some bright colored patent leather heels and you are set.

During these hard economic times we all want plus size items in our wardrobe that give us a certain amount of bang for our buck. So when shopping, always choose more classic and less trendy pieces for your wardrobe. In turn you will extend the value of your clothing and they will do double-duty and easily transition into great looks for the following season.

It’s not unusual for for many full figure women to mostly avoid wearing plus sized shorts. It definitely was for me! The only people I ever though that looked good in shorts were athletic types or slender fashion models. But plus size fashion designers have begun heeding the call for fashionable and affordable shorts and swim suits.

There are now many retailers to go to when shopping for full figure swimwear and clothing. There’s even the option to shop for plus size clothes from special juniors retailers, as well as stores specializing in maternity clothing. However, summer time staples such as swim wear and shorts haven’t quite seen their day. But with pioneering stores such as Lane Bryant, Avenue, and Torrid, there is a diverse range of styles to choose from.

When it comes to plus size shorts, the most important things to take into consideration (besides fit) are length and style. Shorts that hit at mid-thigh or longer are the most flattering for fuller figures.  For a summery look without showing too much skin, opt for plus size capris, petal pushers, or cropped slacks.

The less design elements and embellishments the better; stick with flat front shorts for a flattering look.  Pleats are generally not a good look for those with extra weight in the “pooch” area. Shorts done in simple and tasteful solid colors, with a flat front and modest details, are always in style. A nice pair of shorts will match perfectly with your favorite tops, blouses and tee shirts as well. A plus size skirt is another fun option. As with shorts, longer styles of skirts are the most flattering style.  Select a style that ranges from knee-length to right at your ankles for the best look.

From shorts to plus size swim suits, we’ve got you covered (or uncovered!) this sizzling summer time!

Recently our team at SWAK Designs had an opportunity to take part in an amazing historical event. Our owner Brad Capo sent Rhasaan Perry (VP of Sales/Merchandising) and myself to New York City to participate in the first ever Full Figured Fashion Week produced by Gwen DeVoe CEO of DeVoe Signature Events (DSE) on Thursday June 25 until Saturday June 27, 2009. This event showcased the latest in plus size fashion as well as brought the plus size community together in hope to change the way retailers think of plus size consumers and plus size fashion in the industry today. For those of you who keep up with us and read our weekly articles and blog, you know that we had announced this exciting event and its schedule a few weeks ago urging anyone who is into plus size fashion and the latest trends to attend. So, hopefully you did not miss out on the festivities and were able to attend. If not, you are in luck because I have the details of how it all went down.

The FFFWeek events started on Thursday June 25th with an amazing shopping soiree at Re/Dress boutique in Brooklyn. This event welcomed the out of town guests while they enjoyed shopping. Together with Pockets and Purses with a Purposes Tracey V. Bell (Chairman and President, PPWAP) and Kim Coles (Global Spokesperson, PPWAP) customers shopped vintage plus size clothing and were given the opportunity to donate their lightly used purses and wallets for the foundation which later will be bundled with personal care products and counseling services for women/children in Domestic Violence Shelters.

Later that evening they had a designers showcase and networking event with a plus size fashion show which took place at Club Blvd. The fashion show featured fabulous new designs by Ashley Stewart and en.v. new york by Designer Just Raymona. Unfortunately, due to our work schedule here at SWAK Designs our team had to miss out on Thursday’s events but by all the pictures out there, the event looks to have been a success for all involved.

The following day we spent the morning fitting some of our beautiful plus size models that were going to be wearing our fashions in the finale runway show. After that we made our debut at the FFFWeek Buyers Market. This sales event was put together to help connect the attending plus size fashion buyers and boutique owners with participating FFFWeek designers and suppliers. This was a great business networking opportunity for us as an on-line retailer and wholesaler. It helped open some new doors and create some great opportunities for us as well as meet some amazing buyers and boutique owners in the plus size industry.

During this time the “The State of the Curvy Community” panel discussion began at another location with moderator Sharon Quinn. This panel discussion addressed the current state of the plus size community and the significance of Full Figured Fashion Week, through the eyes of some of the industry’s leaders, bringing different perspectives from various experiences and points of views from all attendees. Since we were participating in the Buyers Market at that time we were unable to attend the panel discussion, but from what I heard it was an extremely powerful, positive, and uplifting discussion.

Later that night we attended the Media Reception/Press Party at the Taj Lounge which was a blast. It was great to meet and network with such a variety of professionals from media, designers, and models. The night went on at the Sage Theatre without us at the Full Figured Friday mini-concert hosted by Queen Aishah who is a comedian, actress, radio personality, and philanthropist. The venue had performances by Queen Aishah, Crystal P. (Detroit’s new Queen of Comedy) and The Glamazons, the fierce foursome plus size pop group whose mission is to show the world that talent comes in all sizes. After the Media Reception was the FFFWeek Friday Night Dance Party at the Stitch Lounge. This was an opportunity for all attendees to dance, mingle, eat, and celebrate FFFWeek and all of the events.

Saturday, the final day of FFFWeek was also actioned packed with events from morning to night. They opened the day with a Small Business Workshop which focused on how to market your business or organization online using social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, and even your own personal website. After that was the Curves in the City Shopping Soiree which was open to the public and had discount shopping with participating FFFWeek designers and vendors. Unfortunately, Rhasaan and I were unable to attend either event as we were doing final fittings with our models and preparing our collections for the finale runway show.

Then finally that evening was what we all had been anticipating…..the Finale Runway Showcase at The Prince George Ballroom. It was a semi-formal, finale designer showcase featuring the collections from Agape Goddess Wear, Ashley Stewart, Big Girls United (BGU), Candi Apple Couture, Jewel Shannon Designs, LaMaica Fashions, Monif C., Osun Design, Qristyl Frazier Designs, Robert E. Knight, and yours truly Sealed With a Kiss Designs. The show was incredible and the designs were amazing. It was really hard to choose but I would have to say that the designs by BGU and Qristyl Frazier were my absolute favorites in the show besides our collection of course. When it was time for our designs to hit the runway we were dressing and fixing our models as fast as we could to get them perfect before they stepped out on the runway. It was so interesting to be on the other side of a runway show this time around, not participating as a model but as a representative of a clothing line. I was feeling such a different type of nervousness that I’ve never felt before. Although Rhasaan and I were battling our nerves, all of our models were somewhat calm and really rocked it out for us. Our designs were a hit as well as our models who were looking beautiful and we received so many great compliments from people at the show. What a rush! After all of the designs were shown it was pictures and networking time and as a plus size model, this is my favorite thing to do. Later there was an after party where attendees were able to dance, mingle, and eat while celebrating such an amazing show. Needless-to-say it was a late night with an early flight the next morning, but so worth it.

FFFWeek was an definite success for us as a whole. We hope that next year Gwen DeVoe with DeVoe Signature Events (DSE) will bring this ground breaking event to us here in Los Angeles. We feel so blessed to have been part of such an amazing, ground breaking event for the plus size fashion industry. We are so thankful to have had the opportunity to share our designs with such a welcoming, enthusiastic, supportive audience. For those of you that Rhasaan and I crossed paths with on this adventure it was such a pleasure to meet you all and hope you will stay in touch. If you have any comments or feedback please feel free to do so below. We would love to hear from you.

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

 

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With the weather warming up and summer vacation quickly approaching, I decided to go on a quest for the best fitting plus size swimsuit. We all know that swimsuits can be pretty pricey, but I personally am willing to pay the price for something that is not only durable, but figure flattering and stylish. The last thing you want to have on your vacation is an ill-fitting swimsuit since you will basically live in it for however long you are away at your tropical paradise.

When shopping for a plus size swimsuit the most important thing to me is fit. As a Mother, Wife, and Plus Size Model it is important to me to NOT have all of my “business” showing to the entire world. I look for a swimsuit that I can not only wear from patio to poolside, but one that I can wear to the water slide park or for a day at the beach with the family. It is always nice to have a couple of different options based on the occasion, but I know not all of us have that luxury so we can make 1 suit work for all of the above.

On my quest I visited many different stores in the mall that I know carry plus size clothing such as Torrid, Macys, and JC Penny to check out their swimsuit collections. At each store I tried on a variety of swimsuits and had no luck at all. I just could not find a suit that fit me right and was stylish at the same time. I came home feeling frustrated and exhausted, so I decided to sit down and browse the web for other options. While searching online I found some amazing plus size swimsuit styles that were nowhere to be found at the mall on sites that I knew focused on plus size fashion and sizing.

The first site I sought out was LaneBryant.com and I found the Miraclesuit “Oceanus” one-piece swimsuit for $134.00 available in Black and Ocean Blue. This suit is a classic style and body for any occasion. It features special stretch fabric that gives you extra support and a noticeably slimmer silhouette. You cannot go wrong with this swimsuit!

The second site I visited was AlwaysForMe.com where I fell in love with the Twist Front Bandeau one-piece plus size swimsuit for $79.00 available in a variety of colors. This swimsuit has been featured in a variety of magazines such as O, The Oprah Magazine and is considered one of their top selling swimsuits. This suit has everything I am looking for in a plus size swimsuit. It has full tummy control, shirred sides that help create a curvy waistline, a super cute skirt that provides some coverage but doesn’t make you look like you are wearing a full swimdress, and the halter strap can be removed. AMAZING! This style is perfect to go from patio to poolside at the resort. I also love how easy it is to shop on their site and how much detail they give you on each and every item. You also can shop by your body type A+ to Alwaysforme.com.

Lastly I visited Swimsuitsforall.com I found the Delta Burke “Tigress” plus size halter tankini in brown for $98.00. This suit is super cute and has a high v-neck for good coverage and cinched sides with a drawstring tie detail. This is a great two-piece style and works perfect for an apple shaped girl. Love it!

These are just 3 plus size swimsuits that I found to be the best in durability, fit, and style. I feel that all women of every size and shape deserve to wear beautiful, stylish swimsuits and feel confident. I have to say that for 2009 the plus size swimwear collections are amazing with a variety of choices to fit every shape. So be adventurous this season, have fun and try something new, and remember to love the skin you are in.

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

 

plus size wrap dresses

There are key pieces that every Plus Size woman needs to have in her wardrobe and I cannot live without. Since it is the beginning of spring, I thought it would be good to get every woman started on the right path in creating their new “spring-fabulous” wardrobe. These wardrobe essentials will help you create a variety of looks that are classy, figure-flattering, and timeless.

1. Foundation garments: Starting with the proper undergarments is key to having a “Spring-Fabulous” wardrobe. I feel that what you wear under clothes can definitely make or break your outfit. Every Plus Size woman must be sure to have proper fitting bras, panties, shapers, etc. to help smooth out your curves and complete the look you are trying to achieve. I do not leave home without these and particularly love the hide and sleek cami by SPANX.

2. Sexy Wrap dress: This is a definite must have dress style for every Plus Size woman. Why it’s so amazing is because the diagonal part of the wrap works like magic to show off a narrow waist and fakes one for the wider waisted women. The wrap dress is a classic and is super sexy whether in a print or solid, pair it with a sexy pair of open toed heels and you are “Spring-Fabulous.”

3. A-line skirt: A Plus Size woman cannot go wrong with A-line! This skirt style is especially great for women who have either a tummy issue or a hip/thigh issue but works well for most figures. When finding the right length in an A-line skirt you want to stay away from styles that hit you mid-calf, it’s better to just hit at or below the knee where the leg is the thinnest and shows off the curve of the calf. Try and pick an A-line with a pretty floral pattern that is perfect for spring.

4. Classic button-front shirt: A classic shirt you will reach for again and again. You can’t go wrong with this style whether if it’s for work, a casual day out and about, or a night out on the town. Long sleeve, short-sleeve, three-quarter sleeve, whatever sleeve, pair it up with a fitted vest or under a light weight sorbet colored cardigan and you are “Spring-Fabulous.”

5. Jeans: Whether they are cropped or not, no wardrobe is complete without a great pair of plus size jeans! They can be dressed up or down. Wide-leg trouser style jeans are especially great for the more pear-shaped woman and the “Skinny” jean styles are great fit for the apple-shaped plus size woman. For spring, try out a pair of distressed “Boyfriend Style” jeans for a more casual laid-back look. Whatever style you choose be sure to save the lighter washes for more casual daytime looks and the darker washes for the dressier night out look.

6. Trench coat: This is a perfect spring staple! A Trench coat gives an outfit a complete, more polished look. Pick one in a bright spring color or basic khaki. Find one that fits close to your body or that has a tie at the waist for a more figure flattering look. Three-quarter length styles are the most flattering, but be sure to stay away from the styles that have oversized lapels that can be extremely overpowering.

7. Flat sandals: The foot-friendly flat sandal is a true essential for a “Spring-Fabulous” wardrobe. In addition to embellished, fringed, patent, metallic, and snakeskin print flat sandals the “gladiator” look is particularly stylish and is worn great with jeans, Bohemian style tops, skirts, and dresses.

8. Romantic blouse: This blouse should have a romantic feel to it with a lightweight, soft, flowy fabric in a light pastel solid or print. Find a style that has some lace or ruffle detail to make it “Spring-Fabulous.” If the blouse is loose enough perhaps try belting it to define your waistline. Pair this blouse with jeans and your flat sandals and you are set.

9. Deep V-neck top: Deep V-necklines are a staple in plus size women fashions. Wearing a deep v-neck makes the body look longer and leaner and is extremely flattering for a plus size figure. If a deep V-neck is not for you pair it with a lightweight coordinating color cami for a great layered look with a pair of jeans.

10. Hobo bag: Comfortable hobo style bags in colors such as black, white, beige, metallic, blue, green, orange, and violet are extremely hot this season. Make an impression and carry something bold and bright.

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