Living in Southwest Atlanta will open you up to a lot of things. Let’s be clear…by no means can I deny having been a shopper at the local $7 store. However, as an adult, I’ve tried to refine where I shop, especially as a young professional. I’m all about quality on a budget, or a quality sale if you will.

I pass the neighborhood Citi Trends often and a few Sundays ago, I was like damnit, just go in.  While I wasn’t overly impressed by the stores slightly swap-meetish feel, I was impressed by the ACCESSORIES!  I found the most adorable pair of color block earrings!  Did I mention that they were $1.99? I’ve been getting crazy compliments on them since I bought them and no one believes me when I tell them where I got them.   They look deceptively light, but those bad mamajamas are heavy and mos def built to last any girls’ night out.  I also found other trinkets the store, that an unnamed accessories boutique in the downtown area is selling for like 20 bucks.  Capitalism is a mutha ain’t it.

Upon further exploration of the store, I discovered that Citi Trends also carries urban wear for B.I.G. Girls of all size by favs such as Baby Phat, Roca Wear, and South Pole for well below the normal retail price.  I try to support Kimora when her stuff is on sale and not too gaudy and I lucked up on a pretty tan Baby Phat shirt for $17.99 (note I saw the same tee in Macy’s the day before for $44.00)…have I mentioned that capitalism is a mutha?!

While I can’t say I’ll be a regular, I will pop in every now again to see what hidden treasures lie within. Check out your local Citi Trends…you never know what you might find.

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While mainstream society is finally embracing the beauty of fullness, it can sometimes feel like the fashion industry hasn’t quite caught on.

Its hard being a B.I.G. Girl in a size 14 and under world and voluptous does not always translate well in a mall filled with Banana Republic, Guess, etc. Add height (I love being 6′1”…I really do) or lack thereof and you’re looking at a headache; and lets not even start on sistas with the size 11 or over foot.

As a closet lover of fashion, I often times find myself staring hungrily at the pages of Lucky or InStyle, mumbling “What about me…” I want to be chic yet trendy, without looking…cheap…

Never fear lady loves…our days of frump and circumstance are over! Retailers from coast to coast are hearing our battle cry. There are more and more stores and sites out there for the plushista that resides in each of us!

Check out a few of my faves!

Stores:

Lane Bryant: No longer your mother’s stomping grounds (although she may be funky fly)…Lane Bryant is mastering conservative yet trendy, and they now carry extended sizes in Spanx! Add that with RealWomen Dollars or a surprise gift check via e-mail and you’re good to go!

Ashley Stewart: Now, while I will say you’ve got to be a choosy lover when going into Ashley Stewart, especially in regard to material, I must say I love their accessories! Ashley Stewart is typically pretty good to the Plushista on a budget.

Torrid: I have a punk rocker deep inside of me and Torrid fulfills my needs. As the plus sized extension of its sister store Hot Topic, Torrid aims to please the plushista with a twist!

Macy’s: Macy’s actually has a really nice selection for the full figured phenom. Based on the demographic of the mall you may find more or less urban wear, but the suits and dresses are fab!

Sites:

Size Appeal: I bought a beautiful microfiber dress from here and I love them, plus their sale section

Old Navy: Old Navy sells their plus size clothing (16-30) exclusively online…and can I tell you guys how much I love it!! The clothes are cute and they have plenty of istatude!!

Target: I’m a cheapista, what can I say. The point is, Target’s online selection of plus size clothing is fierce, I just copped this cute dress for the spring and some Mossimo leggings…gotta love that!

Happy Shopping!

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Hey fellow B.I.G. peeps. First of all let me apologize for my absence these past couple weeks…sometimes life happens. And a B.I.G. and special thanks to Zette for filling in last week. It was greatly appreciated.

Anyways, about a week and a half ago I loaned a couple pairs of ankle boots to a friend of mine to wear to a Rock n’ Roll party. This got me to thinking, would I have to retire my ankle boots for Spring…or even Fall…the horror! I mean I just bought a pair of ankle boots that are fire…and I don’t feel like I have gotten good use of them yet. So I started researching boot trends…and as it turns out, ankle boots are going to be in for Spring AND Fall. How exciting! I am definitely going to get my money’s worth out of them now.

In fact, ankle boots are noted to be one of the MUST HAVE accessories for Spring and Fall!!!! So let’s discuss the do’s and don’ts of wearing a fierce pair of ankle boots.

Do

1. Wear with boot cut, wide-leg or slim fit jeans

2. Wear with knee length (or a couple inches above the knee) skirts or dresses

3. Rock with a fierce pair of tights if sporting a dress or skirt - preferably a pair that is of a similar color

4. If you got thicker legs, definitely pair them with tights of the same color

5. Pair with jeans and long sweaters

Don’t

1. Wear them with super duper mini-skirts - you will probably look like a lady of the night

2. Wear ankle boots without a heel…YIKES!!!

3. Let socks show over the ankle boot…no matter how much 80s fashion comes back in style, this aint the 80s!

Obviously, the lists above are not exhaustive, but use them as a guide to play with this style. In the words of Heidi Klum, “Auf Wiedersehen” (remember project runway ends tonight).

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I am sure most of you have started to see that the retail store windows are changing out for Spring 08. The Winter 07 stuff has been thrown to the sale racks in the back for the budget babes (like myself) to filter through. It is still cold outside so this is a great time to buy some 1/2 off boots and those extra 40% off sweaters, which by the way I just did :), and I can’t help but share my excitement with you on this awesome pair of Michael Kors ankle boots I just got for $90…YEAH!!!

Anyways, on to Spring 08.

If you know me personally you know that my closet is quite colorful. I have never been one to shy away from the bright colors, so usually I am pretty excited when Spring fashion comes around. Although the bright colors are back, there is one aspect of Spring fashion that I am just not quite feeling yet…TRANSPARENT FABRICS. I just don’t get it.

Why would I want to wear an outfit made out of transparent mesh? I am comfortable in my skin, so I don’t necessarily mind showing off my assets every now and then. If that’s the case I would just wear a crop top, not a pseudo faux crop top with a piece of transparent fabric stitched to the bottom…I just don’t get it.

I recently saw a picture of Victoria Beckham wearing a grey dress with a transparent mid section, and carrying a transparent bag. Now, I am not necessarily a private person, but there is something about keeping the dollar value on the bank receipts I toss in my purse to myself. I mean how can see through be fashionable? I just don’t get it.

Didn’t these designers read The Emperor’s New Clothes? Don’t they know that he was laughed at? I just don’t get it.

With all that being said, at the end of the day it is all about how you wear something, so let me not completely dog this trend, because come March you just might catch your girl in some transparent garb, and then…I just might have gotten it! LOL

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As you know, last week I planned to talk about flats, but that discussion has been postponed. This past week I received a flyer for a party in Miami that contained a dress code that forbade “plaid shirts”. After a friend of mine noticed this prohibition against “plaid”, the following e-mail exchange ensued (Please note that all names have been changed):

Alice: Wendy, why is your boyfriend always hating on the plaid shirts? LOL.

Me: For real Alice. Looks like all guys gonna come in there looking the same!

Wendy (to the promoter/boyfriend): You guys want to give me a reason on why you don’t want plaid shirts? It seems like your audience wants to know.

Promoter/Boyfriend: Have you ever seen a nice looking plaid shirt on someone? Where does one get a plaid shirt?

Wendy: The promoters are convinced plaid is played out.

Me: They are behind the trends…Plaid is in for 08, so they better start stocking up, because they will be looking like last year in a few months.

Alice: Maybe the flyers should read ‘No Short-sleeved plaid shirts”.

Me: Plaid shoes, plaid shorts and accessories in plaid are in for the spring. I write a fashion blog, I know these things OK. Check it out at www.bgguide.net. LOL. In fact, maybe my next post will be about the trendiness of plaid Wendy, you should forward them to my column, give them some schooling. It’s all about how you wear something! I think they don’t want to see some cheesy ass plaid Tommy Hilfiger polos or some crap like that. That’s what they should specify, or no old late 90s baggy short sleeve plaid button up shirts. Can we say lame! But a nice plaid sports jacket or a shirt that actually fits a guy properly is a whole ‘nother story.

So after this e-mail exchange I decided to do some research as to whether plaid really is going to be as popular in ‘08 as I expect…and as my instincts suggested…IT IS!!!! In fact, both men’s and women’s Spring and Fall ‘08 collections for several top designers are highlighted with plaid.

Remember some of the great things about fashion is playing with fabrics, cuts and patterns. So in ‘08 why not play around with non-traditional cuts in traditional patterns or vice versa. In fact, I am going to take my own suggestion and finally wear this crop red/black/white/gray jacket that has been floating in my closet since last year.

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Before I get into this week’s topic, I wanted to spread the word on a fabulous website I found…Hautelook. This website hosts online sample sales from many hot designers. FYI…I cannot wait for the 31st when Alice and Olivia’s sample sale takes place. My birthday is in a couple weeks, so please don’t hesitate to splurge on me if you must…Hey I could be sending you to the full price site, at least I am sending you to the bargain bin :).

OK, so last week I promised you all a discussion on flats, so here you go.

Unless you are a hermit with no access to modern technology, what I am about to share with you should not be new. Currently flats, can be found in any and every store that sells any form of fashion or fashion accessory. For me right now, every time I find a funky pair of flats it is like falling in love all over again, each and every time.

The thing about flats that I especially love is that you can wear them with anything. You can dress them up or dress them down, pair them with jeans, slacks, skirts or dresses, make them blend in with an outfit or standout as a statement piece all on their own.Feeling chic, classic or sophisticated? Throw on a simple ballet flat. Feeling feminine and flirty? Sport a pair covered in embellishments such as embroidery, lace or other textured fabrics. Feeling trendy? Find the most outrageous flats that you can, and don’t be scared of glitter, jewels, metallics or animal prints.

Currently I own just a couple pairs of flats ;)…LOL. Yeah right! If you believe that then you really don’t know me. You can find flats so reasonably priced right now that every gal can own several pairs and not feel the least bit guilty about it. Plus new styles come out so regularly that even the more expensive brands always have a couple styles on sale.

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Sorry it took so long for me to post for 2008, but my Mac decided to go on vacation after the holidays and he is just getting back to work…Thank you Mac Genius Bar :).

Anyways, on to my topic for this week.

Amongst my friends I have always been known as the shoe lover/collector, and as long as I can remember Daddy has called me Imelda Marcos…you know, the former First Lady of the Philippines known most famously for her extensive shoe collection. In fact, if I was forced to say that I was addicted to something, I would have to say I was addicted to shoes. I mean which other 9 year old in the late 80s knew the difference between Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik and that the Classic Chanel two tone continued to be popular?

My grandmother told me once (or maybe twice) that every girl is allowed a weakness, and mine (and hers ;)) just happens to be shoes. To me there is nothing better than finding a pair of shoes that just screams….STATEMENT PIECE! And hell if it’s also on sale…ORGASMIC!

I cannot walk by a shoe store without going in. I am a lover of all shoes…flats, pumps, sandals, sneakers, boots, flip-flops, you name it – if it has a sole I am in love. Although shoes are my weakness, I am a responsible purchaser and a firm believer in not purchasing shoes that I cannot afford. There is no reason to go to the poorhouse wearing Christian Louboutin, even as fierce and fabulous as they may be, when I can be living quite well in a pair of Report Signature’s. That of course doesn’t mean a girl can’t splurge on herself every once in a while ;).

Next week – FLATS!

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The lovely Nandi’s computer is ill…
in her absence we want to know..what fashions trends need to GO AWAY in 2008?

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I cannot believe that 2008 is almost here! 2007 went by so very fast and was filled with so many changes. So with 2008 right around the corner I think it is imperative that we all assess our lives and closets and figure out what we should be taking into 2008 and what we should be leaving behind. As I am not a counselor, nor do I profess to be a person who is remotely equipped with dealing with my own issues much less anyone else’s, I will just leave this discussion to clothes.

For 2008, we need to leave behind anything that resembles or favors in any shape or form the Bohemian look. I know this is hard for many of us, as those damn peasant skirts are just so comfortable and easy to maintain, but it is time to donate them to Goodwill or pack them away until the fashion cycle brings them back in style in another 10 or so years. 2007 can also retain anything that has the Military inspired look. However, unlike Bohemian inspired pieces, I would just pack away and store my Military inspired pieces, as this is one trend that although may be out for now, is likely to be back later in 2008 or 2009.

As for 2008 there are certain key trends that every woman must begin acquiring. First and foremost…the statement accessory. This can be anything from a necklace, a hat, a watch or a funky bangle or purse. However, whatever the accessory, it should be able to stand-alone and funk up any outfit you decide to put together. It is also essential that 2008 is marked by the acquisition of at least a couple sexy formfitting pieces that although shouldn’t be skintight and sleazy, hug the right areas.

I personally, am looking forward to 2008. I had a great time in 2007. I learned a lot about myself and the people around me, and can’t wait to start off the New Year on a great note. And hey, it can’t hurt to look good while doing it. Talk to you Next Year!

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Men…don’t think I have forgotten about you. This past week I’ve been reading about men’s fashion to get ideas as to what trends or styles I should blog about this week. With so much out there I just truly could not decide. So instead, I have decided to throw that idea out and present my fellas with my Men’s Fashion Do’s and Don’ts:

DO’S:

1. Own a black suit – with 2 buttons, NOT 3
2. Own a French cuff white shirt
3. Own a gray V-neck sweater
4. Wear dress socks when appropriate – in navy, black and brown
5. Invest in nice cuff links and watches
6. Keep your brown and black shoes clean and polished
7. Have a relationship with a tailor
8. Take your dress shirts to the dry cleaner
9. IRON
10. Experiment with color

DON’TS

1. Wear brown and black - They RARELY match, if you are not very fashion forward DO NOT attempt to mix the two!!!!
2. Mix Patterns
3. Wear too many colors at once
4. Wear sunglasses at night – it looks ridiculous!
5. Wear belts and shoes that don’t match
6. Wear denim shirts or denim with denim
7. Wear full linen suits – and DEFINITELY NOT with “mandals” – YUK!!!
8. As a matter of fact DON’T wear “mandals” ever under any circumstances!!!
9. Wear white socks with loafers
10. Leave your house in a white shirt with yellow stains under the armpit – even if it’s under the shirt – THROW it OUT!!!

My lists above are obviously not exhaustive, but it is just what has crossed my mind recently. Please add additions to each list in your comments. I would love to know what ya’ll think…especially my fellas.

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