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.

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.

One of the most important things to me when shopping for a plus size swimsuit 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. Having a couple of different options for different occasions is great, but for those of us who are on a budget we will 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!

plus size womens 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.