Fall Fashions for REAL Women

Every where you look, from the magazine stands to your local newspaper delivered right to your door, you’re likely to find an article, or perhaps an entire issue, devoted to fall fashion. You will see the latest runway designs, fashions from premium labels, and clothes that look great on the models, but that most of us react to with a reticent sigh of envy, or perhaps even humor knowing that the likes of our bodies will never be blessed with such high fashion.

So here it is, the Fall Fashion article for real women. What do I mean by real women? Well, walk down any street (except perhaps 5th avenue or Sunset Boulevard), look around, and the women you see — the big ones, the small ones, the pear shapes, the apple shapes, the mom, the business woman, the college student … those are the real women. Ok, I realize I can’t write one piece to cater to ALL types of women, but I am hoping to include a little something for everyone that can’t find fashion suitable for them in other women’s media.

After consulting a variety of fashion experts, the basic trends are: bright, jewel-tone colors, animal prints, a lot of mixed patterns, and even plaid. Think 80s — updated. I know, I know, we’ve all forever buried the pictures of us with our big hair and shoulder pads. But trust me, just like the best of the 70s fashions were brought back to life with a fresh look (bell bottoms=boot cut), this trend can and does work.

A quick search at Nordstrom in their What’s New section reveals a little of everything. They even have an entire section dedicated to animal prints. But if you’re like me, your body and your budget might call for other options. Whenever I am in the mood for something new, the first place I look is Shop It To Me. This amazing site caters sales from your favorite stores and brands and returns results only in the sizes you specify. (If you want to read more about Shop It To Me, click here.)

One of my favorite stores is Ann Taylor Loft, where you can find a good mix of trendy and classic looks at more reasonable prices. Their new arrivals section also offers a glimpse of the fall trends with a classier flair. Paisley is definitely a throw back from the 80s, but this tunic is nothing but outdated. Unfortunately, the Ann Taylor brand recently decided not to carry plus size clothing anymore, but their are plenty of great alternatives in 14+ sizes.

Lane Bryant has introduced their Icon line featuring styles “inspired by the runways of Paris, Milan and London.” This asymmetrical, one-shoulder top is daring and sexy. And premium denim lines are FINALLY figuring out that they have an awesome market in plus sizes. Lane Bryant now offers Seven7 jeans in different cuts. PZI Jeans offers an extraordinary selection of denim for every shape. OneStopPlus is also a great source for reasonably-priced, fashionable plus-size clothing.

If you’re not brave enough to pull off bold animal prints on the outside, consider letting your inner animal come out in your intimates. I love this leopard print push up bra and panties set from Lane Bryant. Of course, when buying a new bra, make sure you have a proper fit. If you’re bulging out of your bra or the straps are digging into you, it might be time to try a new size. For some tips on finding the right sizing for you, check out this article by the Greater LA Woman: Finding a Bra That Fits.

Shoes and accessories are a good way to capitalize on trends without overdoing the look or spending a lot of money. Target.com has a great selection of animal print shoes. For unending selection in sizes, styles, and prices, be sure to check out new shoe styles at Zappos.com where you always get free shipping and free returns. And they have more than just shoes! Check out their handbags, accessories, and apparel.

Jewelry is another way to freshen up your look without going out and buying a whole new wardrobe. Once again, you will find that Target offers loads of fun, trendy pieces at affordable prices, like this beaded tassel necklace.

If you have an occasion that calls for something a little fancier, you can’t go wrong with this Goddess Dress from Britt Steele. Available in sizes 0-24, this dress really IS for everyone. It’s a shape that can flatter all, and make anyone feel like a Goddess! Personally, I’m trying to figure out what event I can get invited to just so I have an excuse to get one!

And of course, it’s important to balance trends with the basics. It’s always best to spend the bulk of your fashion dollars on pieces that will never go out of style. A trench coat may not be the most exciting part of your look, but it won’t ever go out of fashion, and you can dress it up with a brightly colored scarf. For $49.50, you can’t beat the price of this belted trench coat at Old Navy. Wear over top a fun, but flattering top like this smocked waist top from JC Penny, paired with a black pencil skirt or dark jeans, and you have a look that will always look current.

Last but not least, it is important to remember that no matter what the style, make sure it fits well. Don’t squeeze into sizes that are too small just because that’s what you used to wear, or wish you could wear now. You will feel your best in clothes that fit you well and flatter your body.