Young American Store

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 was to welcome all of the out of town guests while they enjoyed premium 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.

For many plus sized women, the thought of wearing womens shorts is one that they’d rather not think about. There’s no question that it was for me! The only people I ever though that looked good in shorts were athletic types or shapeless fashion models. But thankfully plus size clothes designers have become aware of the increasing desire for fashionable and nicely-fitting plus size shorts and swimwear.

These days, there are a wide range of brands to browse at when it comes to plus size swim suits and clothing. From maternity wear to juniors sizes, the plus size woman now has a variety of stores to choose from. However, summer time staples such as swim suits and shorts haven’t quite seen their day. Thanks to pioneering shops such as Lane Bryant, Avenue, and Torrid, there is a satisfyingly diverse range of styles to choose from.

Other than the sizing, you’ll want to factor length and style when deciding on your plus size shorts. Shorts that hit at mid-thigh or longer are the most flattering for plus size figures.  For more modest options, plus sized capris or cropped pants are an excellent in between compromise.

Truly flattering shorts are simple in style, with a flat front and no bulky embellishments.  Pleats generally do not work well with those who don’t have completely flat abs. Choosing two-pocket style shorts with a flat front, minimal design elements, and solid colors is always a classic look. A quality pair of shorts are the perfect pair for your favorite shirts and blouses in the summertime. Another fun option is to go with a plus size skirts. Once again, a longer skirt is the most flattering style.  Short skirts are not as flattering, so a skirt that hits at your knee or longer is your best option.

Many people are choosing to buy their clothes and shoes online these days. For one, it is so much more convenient to buy things from the convenience of your home,saving money on gas, and saving you time as well. No one wants to spend their whole weekend scouring the stores for the perfect pair of shoes! Many times buyers find that when they visit their local store, the store is out of their size or the shoe has been discontinued at that store. It is very annoying to have wasted your time driving to shops only to be very disappointed.

To prevent all of these issues, many people just go straight to their computers when they need to find a great pair of shoes. Most people find a brand that they like and stick with it. You know what size and width you wear in that brand so fitting is not an issue when you buy online. Many companies even have Sizing Charts to help you determine the size that you need to order as well. They will give you a measurement in inches and you can measure your foot to determine the best fit. This makes sizing so easy!

Another reason many women look for their shoes online is to save money! There are so many discounted shoes online and you can get up to 40% off the prices at at your local Department store.. Many online shoe retailers also do not charge sales tax and have deals on free shipping if you spend a specified amount on your purchase. There are seasonal sales as well. You can get additional savings if you purchase shoes during specific holidays or during after season clearance sales.As well as sizeable discounts, many online shoe retailers also offer free return shipping in case you are not happy with your order or if you need a different color or size.

If you are shopping for great womens shoes online, you are not alone. Women buy more shoes than men, simply because of the need to match styles and colors to different outfits. Men will never comprehend why women have so many pairs of shoes, but as a woman I can tell you that no matter how many pairs of shoes that I have it is never enough!

plus size dresses

If you are somewhat intimidated by the phrase “evening dresses” and are not sure what to look for, then don’t panic. There are a few tips that may help you out. First you need to figure out how formal the event will be, as black-tie affairs normally mean a long formal gown. For a cocktail event think something along the lines of a “little black dress.”

Once you have found out how formal the event is going to be you will be able to start considering the different styles and colors of dresses that are available. Of course, not every style or color works with all body types so you need to keep that in mind. Not all choices have to keep with the traditional designs of formal dresses either, if that style is not good for you. Cocktail dresses are considered by some to be the easiest to find as there seems to be a little more leeway than with formal events. Meaning, it is ok to wear something bright and vibrant or short and flirty.