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Featured Plus Pieces for Anyone 14+

It's a good time to be sized 14+, when you take a look at all your options right now. From Alight to SWAK Designs, you can find trendy items that are sized to fit (and up to 30/32 in many cases). No matter what your size, you can certainly step right up to embrace pieces that look just the same as items you'll find in sizes 0-12.

Hunt for little jackets in candy colors, cropped to keep the shock of brightness to a tasteful little burst. When layered over long tops like tunics in jersey cotton and dressier chiffon tank tops, you can be sure that you won't be running out of wardrobe ideas any time soon. Jeans and flats can complete the look in just seconds, and that can make anyone happy who has school/works/kids/errands/infinite numbers of things to do besides fret about clothes. It's all about the signature piece, isn't it?

(Apple Bottoms Cropped Colored Jacket) Cropped Coats This coat has a casual look that reminds me of a light spring parka mixed up with a warm-up jacket. In short, it looks casual and comfortable, and I know that you can choose to dress it every which way. For a casual outfit, choose to wear it with stretch yoga pants with a foldover waistband and little slip-on sneakers, for example, and a stretch tee that's long enough to cover all your bits. Dress this item up just like it's pictured, with a fancy tee in graphic designs, which is trendy in itself, along with wide-legged pants.

(Stretch Bar and Bead Bracelet) Fancy Bracelets I like like bracelet in gold, and sometimes it can really help to purchase your accessories from plus-size purveyors, since the sizing can be more in-tune with your shape and be much more comfortable than your typical bracelet/necklace. Another great source besides Alight.com is Evans, which features plenty of sized-up pieces that contribute to a phenomenal outfit.

(Crisp White Tee) White Shirts A tailored white shirt is a year-round essential that can be introduced to your everyday wardrobe without fail. I chose this piece from Apple Bottoms because it's affordable and has some creative design elements that set it apart from the pack. It's recommended as a going-out top, but I know that with a tank top underneath in a silky fabric, this shirt can work its way into your workwear as well.

(SWAK Femme Fatale Skinnies) Dark Skinny Denim Dark denim is perfect for showcasing your favorite little items, from clean white like the above featured shirt to jackets and coats with desirable design elements like larger pockets, drawstring elements, and even amazing colors like cobalt and bright pink. Don't be shy-- everything agrees with dark denim.

Tip: Check out these shoes from Go Jane to match.

(Cotton Underwire Bra) Smooth Bra There's one essential item that you won't be wearing on the outside-- but everyone will notice if you don't choose the right one. This Figleaves Smooth Bra will leave your tees without marks and bumps, and extended cup sizes are available for plus-size women. Now this is one piece that's essential no matter what you choose to wear over it!

Plus-Size Weekend Picks

Today I chose pieces for the mature plus-size woman to scoop up, from simple tops to gorgeous tees and dresses. While I'm usually aiming towards juniors pieces for myself, the fit is another issue in itself and keeps me running back to more mature women's styles. These pieces are easy to wear, easy to incorporate into your wardrobe, and simple enough to blend with your signature pieces.

I chose looks from Catherine's and Jessica London, two of my favorite plus "standbys," which are easily recognizable brands that are very affordable as well.

(Yellow Tank, $12.60)

Solid Stretch Layering Tank: This piece is sunny, simple, and nicely shaped. The neckline is nice and high for work, which I love, and that makes it appropriate for every work environment. Plus, who can resist that sunny color? Certainly not me.

(Blue Skirt, $31.20)

Solid Skirt with Pleated Hem: This skirt has such a cool look! I adore its simplicity paired with that Easter-friendly color that's just lovely. All you need to do is find the right top to go along with it. . . I'm tempted to do a super girly thing and match it with something dripping with lace, ribbons, and things. But I know that I'll probably go from something much more simpler later on like a basic novelty tee, a tunic, or even a waistcoat.

(Striped Wrap, $21.00)

Striped Ombre Wrap with Fringe: Everyone needs a pashmina! This ombre one ties in two trends with cool blue stripes amidst a functional wrap. It might not be as easy to wear as your black pashmina, but it will work with all your basic tops in pastel shades, crisp whites, and inky black.

(Chiffon Dress, $69.90)

JL Studio Scoopneck Dress: This is my favorite piece from my shopping experience today. I was so impressed with its shape, with that saturated color, and with the subtle design elements. I also like the versatility that this dress provides in terms of accessories. Heels and flats are both friends here. . . I'd love to try out a pair of ballerina ones here.

(Tankini, $39.90)

Inches Off Halter-Style Tankini: This may not be a work item, but it's too good to pass up. This Halter-Style Tankini makes you look slim, ties in super-traditional wardrobe basics like black and white, and will look amazing with the right bikini bottoms-- and those can be anything from strings to high-waisted, retro-styled bottoms.

(Brown Top, $39.90)

Scoopneck Tie-Front Cardigan: I have a thing for scoopnecks today! This one, in a rich cocoa brown, will offset all of your bright spring florals and tone down pieces that perhaps you were too nervous to try out. Okay. . . I'll admit it-- brown is also my favorite color!

Dereon Dresses Things Up

I went over to Dereon on one of my usual clothes shopping sprees, and I was surprised at what I found- new pieces with an extra bit of style, and in plus sizes, too! If you wear a larger size jeans or tops, you won't need to go to another location just to find a full-figured option--it's all right there. I like larger tops that a roomy, swingier shape, and those can be found at Dereon along with skinny jeans and low-cut trousers.

But you know what really helped me out over there? Their featured Style Mixer. If you're looking for a way to mix and match cool pieces that you've run into over at Dereon, you can slide the Collection button to find full looks and reduce your personal coordination time.

Dereon Jeans: My Top Pick
My favorite jeans surprised me over at Dereon: I ended up adoring the Heavy Metal pair despite my usually classic style. With stitching and charm details, they're certainly not for the faint-of-heart, but they're just what you need when you're having one of those I-need-a-makeover-and-fast kind of days. It has silver stitching along the rear and above the pockets, as well as some heavy metal accessories that are interesting and tastefully added.

Tip: Imagine this with a black smock top complete with sash as well as killer heels.

Amazing Blouse Alert!
Are you on the search for your best feature-- or your skinniest? This Gold Rope Top hows off a peek of skin on the side, under your bust, for an unusual little view that's both sexy and unexpected. It's available in both white and pink--I'm partial to the white myself for matching purposes.

Featured Design: Band Fresh Hoody
I was surprised at the design elements going on with this Dereon sweat top. It's certainly unlike any of my other gym pieces, and it could make for a great present for teens, too.

Metallic elements jazz up an already cool sweatshirt that has logo engraved buttons and a peplum flounce. If pink isn't your style, you can try black instead. I can even imagine this top with a comfy woolen skirt.

Plus Piece: Jumpsuits!
I can't say that I've seen many jumpsuits designed for full-figured women, but I like that we have that option, thanks to Dereon's Ds Zipper Chain Jumpsuit. A hood and a square neckline frame your face-- and you can't beat a kangaroo pocket with Lurex details.

Let me know what you find over at Dereon. These may be my top picks, but I'd love to know what catches your eye.

Why I Love Fashion Bug

I have to admit that I haven't been to Fashion Bug nearly as much as I used to. But on a recent search for the perfect wedge sandals, I realized how indispensable this brand really is.

I'll just admit it. It's not easy for me to find the right shoes, even though I'm not particularly picky nor shoe-obsessed. I love a good pair of pumps as much as the next woman, but I'm equally as interested in handbags and tops. Plus, handbags and tops fit me far more easily than shoes. For those of us with larger calves or wider feet, summertime can be a nerve wracking experience. I don't want my calves looking out of proportion with the rest of my body, so I have to find the right pair to flatter and elongate my legs.

Wedges are your best bet if you have similar areas that you'd rather minimize. Open-toed styles are best, and v-throat shoes give your feet a slender look. Stilettos and kitten heels can look too weak to support your calves, but chunkier style heels will add shape and balance to your appearance.

While wedges can be flattering, they can be tricky to fit. They've usually got a strap that reaches behind the ankle, which can be adjustable or on a stretchy elasticized band. For comfort, I've noticed that the elasticized wedges should be avoided. The elastic can stretch or bind, and unfortunately, a lot of the budget brand wedges do feature this type of band. Fashion Bug has Braided Slingback Wedges at just $29.99, and they surpassed other competing brands in quality and style. They have a cool leather upper with only a touch of elastic right at the clasp, and a sturdy sole that's trimmed with jute.

Perhaps you love wedges, but you want to avoid the slingback straps. Fashion Bug also offers an incredible selection of wedge slides than I couldn't find anywhere else. Their Braided Wedge Sandals are already in my closet, and the backless look will also trim down the ankle area. The perfect pair for these earthy slides is a pair of slim Bermudas that end right at the knees, which you can also find at Fashion Bug. Avoid capris and try to find separates that land just above and below the knee. The Studio 1940 Cuffed Shorts are $26.99 and are available up to size 16.

Have fun looking for slimming wedges this summer, and don't forget about Fashion Bug.

by Meieli Sawyer Detoni

Chadwick's Gets a Style Boost

Chadwick's hasn't always been a major style spot for online shoppers, but it's getting a serious boost this year. What was known for its not-so-stylish looks and reliance on polyester has now released an extra collection of designer-inspired pieces. Prices are dropped up to 250% from designer prices, and I', thrilled.

Even though the website hasn't been updated with the bulk of their new designs, you can expect that designer inspired looks will be available soon at Chadwicks.com.

I have seen one very exciting piece that's new to Chadwick's: a straw tote called the “Town and Country” has similar details to the Michael Kors tote in straw and leather. You can't beat the price, either: Chadwick's version is just $50.00, and when compared to Kors' $300 price tag, that will make you smile.

One thing's true—you can't beat the price! Chadwick's designs are an incredible deal, and appear to be offered in quality that can be hard to find with some budget items. The problem with “designer inspired” pieces is that the quality can be inferior. Chadwick's isn't making knock-offs, but their designer inspired pieces are very close to the original designs in fabric choice and the silhouette. With Chadwicks you don't have to contend with poor copies, just totally stylish looks with the same on-trend appeal that we get from some of the best designers around.

I love all of these brands getting revitalized with fresh looks. With diffusion lines and designer collaborations, lots of choices are now available for cheaper buys. You can find very high-quality components in Chadwick's new line of accessories, which makes for stylish designs with lasting power.

Shopping with a set budget has gotten more and more enjoyable; we have more choices to choose from with labels looking for new designer inspiration. Go to Chadwick's and stock up for spring!

by Meieli Sawyer Detoni

Plus Sizes: Where to Find the Disappearing Sizes—For Less

It's no secret that plus sizes were never widely available (at least not the fashionable styles), but have you noticed that they are even harder to find now? Department stores have decreased their stock drastically, not only for plus sizes, but for petites and misses sizes, too.

So what's a girl to do? If department stores seem to be phasing out some essentials, online shopping sprees may be the best ways to find yourself the deals.

Jeans are one of the most difficult to shop for on a budget. Whiskering, fading, and over processing can make your fabulous deal look dated and even cheap. The Gap is one perfect place to grab plus size and petite jeans with quality washes and details. I love their Boot Cut Curvy jeans—they're very flattering on a variety of different body types. I'm getting mine in a darker denim and dressing them up with my sexiest heels.

Target is another perfect destination for those of us looking for a lux look. Who doesn't love a diffusion line?! I'm particularly crazy about the Isaac Mizrahi Tweed Jacket. It has a distinctive single button close to the neck and has a great tailored shape—and it's on sale.

If you're still stumped, you may want to try brands like Monif C. (www.monifc.com). Monif C., designed by a mother/daughter team, is perfect for stocking up on workwear basics. Their items are a little pricier for budget hunters, but will last for ages in your capsule wardrobe.

And remember—your amazing deals can be instantly dressed up with one perfect accessory. Find a designer purse on Bluefly to give yourself super style points!

by Meieli Sawyer Detoni