305 / FALL 2010 TREND ALERT: LEATHER

Rounding out the top three trends for Fall 2010, we have leather. In what used to be strictly for jackets, leather has taken on a life of its own on the runway in recent years. There has been everything from trousers, skirts, underwear, shorts and dresses made from the fabric. I am a huge fan of this trend and I love that there are options other than a leather bomber jacket to choose from. While there aren’t a lot of plus size options currently available, there are a few to pick from. I’m still holding out for the perfect pair of leather shorts! I’m hoping that one retailer (ASOS Curve, I’m looking at you) answers my prayers and makes it happen this fall.
302 / FALL 2010 TREND ALERT: MILITARY & UTILITY

Continuing on with the top trends for Fall 2010, up next we have the military trend. Now true, this look has been seen on the runways for last few years but this season, it has evolved to be more utilitarian, functional and understated rather than the extravagant styles we’ve seen in the past from designers like McQueen and Balmain. There’s less of the once coveted marching band jackets with shoulder detailing and more of the minimalism of a shirt dress. A lot of the pieces are much easier to wear and incorporate into your existing wardrobe. Cargo pants and shirt dresses in navy, camel and olive are key pieces as well as the aviator jacket.
What do you all think of the military trend? Are you over it?
300 / FALL 2010 TREND ALERT: VELVET

Last fall, I thought it would be helpful to breakdown some of the season’s hottest trends and show where to find plus size equivalents. While I did about eight last year, this year’s version will be condensed to three (or maybe five, depending). So, let’s kick things off right this year!
My absolute favorite trend this fall is velvet. I found an amazing gray velvet dress last fall (which I wore as often as possible) and re-ignited my love for it so I’m happy to see that it was embraced all over the runways this year! There were mini skirts, maxi skirts, trousers, leggings, dresses, jackets and even evening gowns that incorporated the fabric. As of now, the only retailers that seem to have jumped on this trend is ASOS and New Look. Both in their main and plus size range, there are several options available, some of which are listed below. However if you’re not too sure you want to fully commit to this trend, here’s a tidbit – almost every single piece of velvet in my wardrobe has been purchased from the thrift store. Usually you can find amazing goodies when you comb the racks of your local stores and for a fraction of the price.
So what do you think? Is this a trend you’ll say yay or nay to?
291 / PRE-FALL WISHLIST
Since Summer is (finally) coming to an end, I’ve set my sights on the glorious upcoming season: Fall! Stores are getting rid of their sundresses and gladiator sandals to make way for jackets and boots which makes me ridiculously happy. A new season means its time to freshen up my personal style and incorporate some new things/ideas. To make my style transition to Fall a little smoother, here are a few items that are on my shopping list.

I am currently loving everything velvet/velour this fall. This blazer from SimplyBe satisfies my inner 90s kid. Its available in black and blue and I want both!
289 / CARMAKOMA A/W10 – CARPE DIEM

If I could wear one plus brand for the rest of my life, it would undoubtedly be Carmakoma. I don’t think its hard to see why. All black everything? Check. Interesting details? Check. Layers and draping? Check. The gang is all here!
Its really weird that, as of now, I don’t actually own any Carmakoma pieces. My chance to rectify that situation is only 9 days away when this collection drops.
See the entire A/W10 lookbook here.
Also check out their – blog – facebook – twitter
220 / FASHION (MONTH) WRAP-UP
As the Fall 2010 runway season comes to a close in Paris, I decided to go through and list my top shows of the season. What intrigues me the most about fashion season is that fact that it gives us, the fashion public, a 10-minute story in which we are transported into a different world. The lights, the stage, the music, the venue, the styling, hair and makeup all come together to produce something magical. There’s absolutely nothing like it.
So here are my top selections for this season (meaning collections I want to own every piece of!)
218 / GARETH PUGH FALL 2010

Everyone knows my favorite designer is Gareth Pugh. The collection that he sent down the runways of Paris this week was one his most wearable ones to date. He is crafting his vision and love of theatrics into amazing leather coats, chainmail dresses and pants, wide leg trousers and chevron-patterned sheer dresses. I, for one, am not disappointed, I’m actually digging the evolution he’s going through. Everyone wanted to know if he’d be able to create wearable garments while still maintaining his voice and this collection, as well as the Spring 2010 collection, answers with a resounding yes. This is why I look forward to Paris Fashion Week.













