These are my three S’s. You want to control any jiggle with the right underpinnings—they’re the building blocks for great style. It’s the contouring underneath that betters the look of your clothing. Based on your needs, your lot should include a minimizer bra, a waist cincher or corset and the original Spanx to smooth your hips and things.
Torrid has a hip selection of denim. Lane Bryant and Ashley Stewart—with their expanded lingerie offerings that are daring, pretty and functional—are great for budget-minded girls. ASOS is the go-to for of-the-moment pieces. Lafayette 148 New York, Rachel Pally and Eileen Fisher have a wealth of chic and effortless day-to-evening options, Michael Kors and Calvin Klein offer a wide range of contemporary looks, and Tadashi Shoji, Marina Rinaldi, St. John and Escada don’t disappoint when it comes to polished highbrow.
Every curvy woman has something about her body that she loves: great legs or shoulders, a pretty neck or décolleté, a small waistline, a gorgeous back. Accent it and celebrate the best of your body!
Dolce Vita booties, $220, dolcevita.com.
It’s rare to pick something off the rack that fits to perfection. In order to create the right fit for your body, your garments need a little nipping and tucking. A seamstress at your local cleaners can often do the trick but a personal tailor is best. Pull in your pants at the waistline, take your oversize pieces in just a little to give a hint of shape or transform boxy jackets to complement your curves.
Eileen Fisher leather blocked leggings, $378, eileenfisher.com.
Let’s say you snag a dress that works for you, but it doesn’t have sleeves—and you prefer sleeves. Get some fabric and have your tailor add them. If you’re tall and can’t find a maxidress that’s long enough, go to the fabric store for a matching or contrasting solid block of color in the measurements you need. It’s not just about adding length, but also about adding flair and ending up with a custom maxidress that nobody else has! Take control of your style.
Wallis poncho, $125, wallisfashion.com.
Alexis Bittar cuff, $295, alexisbittar.com
Dorothy Perkins clutch, $25, dorothyperkins.com.
