thefatgirloffashion.com 💋 Plus Size Fashion + Beauty & Lifestyle
Lifestyle blog on fashion, food & travel in Chicago
Within this blog post, I’ll be sharing how to make a plus-size black pantsuit sexy. I’ll be talking about plus friendly black tux suits along with some pocket-friendly accessories.
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Continue reading “How To Make A Plus-Size Black Pantsuit Sexy”
Within this blog post, I’ll be sharing my experience at the TCF Style Expo. You’ll see what happened from fashions, panels, networking and of course the parties!
Are you looking for the tea on the plus size event The Curvy Fashionista Style Expo? Looking for plus size fashions from TCF Style Expo? Are you looking for information on the plus size focused panels? Here you’ll find! If you want to know why I attend keep reading!!
The category is plus size fashion, lol! (A Pose reference) The TCF Style Expo definitely had the fashions on display.
Here are my 5 favorite looks from the TCF Style Expo. Everyone looked amazing but these happen to be my favorite. However, for me, these people came with their A game!
Marie Dee, The Curvy Fashionista, herself wearing Barkwood.
Shamika of froplusfashion wearing Eloquii.
Chasi of Sweat N Mascara wearing Christian Omeshun.
Tiffany of Beautiffully me wearing Curvi Milieux.
Ivory of Ivory Jinelle wearing Ofuure (top), Rainbow (shorts) and Zara (shoes).
Clearly, they came to slay!
The fashions were not the reason I attend the Style Expo. The panels are very important. There were 3 panels that stood out to me.
I really enjoyed the “Plus Size Fitness” panel. They talked about plus size fitness and weight loss. The ladies shared their thoughts on if plus size fitness fit in the plus industry. They tackled a very heavy hitting topic in the plus size community.
The cosplay panel was so much fun! They started their thoughts on attending cosplay events as plus size women. The group spoke on how to dip your toes into cosplay with closet friendly looks. They also spoke about how the plus size cosplay community is growing and growing fast.
The panel on how to get involved in the curvy community. This panel’s discussion got a little heated and I loved it! The group spoke on breaking into the plus industry. They also shared how you can help others working in and with the plus community.
It was great seeing bloggers I know and respect sitting on panels at the TCF Style Expo.
I attended the TCF Style Expo as a guest of thecurvyfashionista and blogger coordinator Pepper of Pretty Plus Pep, however; All opinions are my own.
S H O P T H E S E L O O K S
Are you planning on attending the TCF Style Expo next year? Let me know in the comments..
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In this blog post, I’ll be showing the Universal Standard X J. Crew collection. The collection has everything from a jumpsuit to dresses! I’ll also be sharing my thoughts on the quality and fit.
“We are committed to offering our customers a truly inclusive experience. That’s why new sizing will be seamlessly integrated into J.Crew’s main assortment and throughout creative, as opposed to a standalone ‘plus’ category.” _Lisa Greenwald for J.Crew
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The Universal Standard for J. Crew collection is available online at the J. Crew website and select J. Crew Stores. I was happy to see this collaboration. Honestly, I had not been looking at J. Crew for fashion finds. So the collaboration with Universal Standard made me look at J. Crew with fresh eyes.
I normally wear a size 18 or 20 preferably in petite and J. Crew didn’t cater to me. Looks like J. Crew has stepped their size game up some. With the Universal Standard for J. Crew collection, they have stepped J. Crew’s sizing all the way up.
With that being said I stopped by the J. Crew location at 900 North Michigan Avenue Chicago, to do a try on of the Universal Standard for J. Crew collection. This is one of 12 locations that carry the Universal Standard items in-store.
J.CREW Chicago Location
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The first Universal Standard for J. Crew collection offers 20 pieces (The number of ideas available online at time post was written). There are dress, tops, and skirts. Before we line up for the J. Crew parade, many of the pieces in the Universal Standard collection look similar to each other. Moreover, the Universal Standard for J. Crew collection is the same price point of purchasing directly from Universal Standard. As a young start-up clothing company the Universal Standard prices can be justified however doing a collaboration with such a large brand with J.Crew’s buying power I was foolishly thinking the prices would come down a little.
Website woes: I was left feeling some type of way when I looked online at the collection. I saw the linen V-neck top paired with a pair of Point Sur high-rise boyfriend jean in destructed white denim. The jeans were, of course, J. Crew, however, the jeans only go up to a size 37 (14). YIKES!
Please note: Larger sizes online are selling out quick so if you see something you like get it now!!
UNIVERSAL STANDARD for J.CREW Cupro Tunic Dress
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The 3-year-old Universal Standard has always been known for their quality. The J. Crew collaboration offers that same Universal Standard fit and feel. I’ve recently reviewed the Universal Standard Geneva dress and I can say there is no difference in the cut, fit and feel.
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UNIVERSAL STANDARD for J.CREW Long-Sleeve Maxi Dress in Stripe
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In-store woes: I did an in-store try on (see Instagram) I was only able to try on the dresses. There were tops however, the store didn’t have bottoms beyond size 14.
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S H O P T H I S L O O K
You can find the full Universal Standard for J. Crew collection here.
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READ MY PLUS SIZE & PETITE UNIVERSAL STANDARD GENEVA DRESS REVIEW HERE
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Within this blog post, I’ll be sharing my first day in New Orleans. It’s my first-time traveling to the Nola. Plus it’s my first time at the Essence Festival. My first full day fell the Fourth of July. Continue reading this blog post to see how this plus size fashion blogger celebrated the birth of the nation in the New Orleans’ French quarters.
“We will shape and mold this country or it will not be molded and shaped at all anymore.” _Nina Simona
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I kicked off my fourth of July in New Orleans with a photo shoot. With the help of fellow blogger Shamika, I had done some research on photographers in New Orleans. I emailed a few a settled on Britt of brittsmithphotography. Which was a wise choice! Britt worked looked amazing but more importantly, she was very professional. She’s replied to my emails in a timely manner. On the day of our shot, she was on time. She was easy going and friendly. And I love my photos and I know you will too!
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I grabbed a lite bit at a placed called Willie’s Chicken Shake. The food was good but it’s a chain restaurant so if you’re looking for a down-home meal this isn’t the place to go.
I hope to find some authentic food within the time I’m in New Orleans.
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This being my first time in New Orleans plus it’s the holiday I know I was in for a good time. And I was right! I had a few options on what to do to celebrate the fourth of July. The bar scene in New Orleans is always fun. However, I know I wanted to see a fireworks show. When I’m home I often stay in the house and watch the firework show on T.V. unless I’m with my family. I was lucky because my hotel was only a few blocks from the Dueling Barges fireworks show. Dueling Barges fireworks show is a free event that’s part of the “Go 4th on the River” celebration held at the Mississippi River’s riverfront.
I knew this was my chance to take a boat ride on the Mississippi River. Image the view of the fireworks from a boat sailing across the river. There were two options.
One option was to book a ride in the Creole Queen steamboat and watch the show from the deck. The Creole Queen cruise started at 7 p.m., and includes an open bar, a buffet of “American favorites”, and three music room choices. Adult tickets were $129 and not in my budget so I went with my other option the Algiers Ferry.
The Algiers ferry has been operation since 1827, that can be boarded at the foot of Canal Street – right next to the Aquarium of the Americas. The ferry ride only costs $2 each way. The ferry ride is about a half hour trip each way. Because I was taking the ferry to see the fireworks I quickly took the ferry back to the other side. If you’re a land lover you can plan a picnic at Woldenberg Park, at the Moon Walk (the riverside promenade, or on the other side of the river in Algiers and watch the fireworks from there. That didn’t go as planned. I ended up oversleeping so Tot and I went to the casino nearby to people watch.
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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here.
S H O P T H I S L O O K
A FEW OTHER OPTIONS I LIKE
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WATCH MY INSTASTORIES TO FOLLOW ALONG WITH MORE OF MY ESSENCE FEST EXPERIENCE HERE
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“Champions keep playing until they get it right.” _Billie Jean King
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It’s spring! Finally! I’ve been fighting the Winter woes. It’s been dark, cold and harsh here in Chicago. Now that the sun is peaking out I’m overjoyed. I made it through like a champ.
I couldn’t wait to wear this fun look. I was taken back to my school days. You could say I was low-key channeling Beyonce Coachella day one. I stay in formation, lol.m
This look for easy to pull off. Pair a pleated skirt with one of your favorite tees. Everyone knowsI’m a fan of fannies but you can add your favorite clutch if you want. I choose to wear tennis shoes, however, you can slip on a pair of heels and you’ll have a super chic brunch look.
To add a little spice you can destress your tee. I love a destroyed tee to add edge.
Now that spring has come to Chicago I hope it stays for a while. Winter stayed way to long. Oh! Be sure to like the fat girl of fashion on Facebook. I’ll be doing a give away soon!!!!!
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“Rrrr Reet Petite the finest girl you ever want to meet” _Jackie Wilson(Reet Petite)
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Work Smart. Reach High. Have Fun is their motto. That love for life and living well aligns with thefatgirloffashion. And because of this, I’m excited to be apart of the campaign to present Talbots’ new plus size collection. For Talbots’ it’s all about the tailoring. They have created styles to specifically compliment all the nuances and silhouettes of the plus-size shape. Within their new plus size collection, they have carved out a line just for petites.
Petite refers to stature not weight.
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n fashion and clothing, a petite size is a standard clothing size designed to fit women of shorter height, typically 160 cm (5 ft 3 in). Most people still think petite means skinny when in fact petite has nothing to do with weight. Petite women come in all shapes and sizes, whether they’re a size 4 or 24. Most petite clothing is designed with shorter sleeves. Rise: Many petite pants and jeans will have a slightly shorter rise than regular sizes. Waist: To accommodate a frame that is often more compact, petite dress waistlines are often a little higher than those of regular sized dresses.
The biggest trap that women who fall into the plus status are the limited availability of those pieces that are petite. While regular sized plus clothing are often too long forcing us petites to get our clothes hemmed. This makes our clothes overall more expensive. Talbots thought not only plus size women with their new collection but the petites too.
This is Talbots’ front pleat tunic a variation of three-quarter sleeves. Their modern take on a classic silhouette. Its pleated V-neck front popover silhouette lends a tailored touch and the long tunic length accentuates leaner, cleaner lines. In my personalized box, this magenta tunic was paired with these fabulous black slim-ankle denim jeans. Talbots say’s they are their most universally flattering fit is narrow from knee to hem. Designed with stretch, the classic slim ankle jean naturally moves with you, offering additional comfort to an already-easy style. Talbots feels it’s the flattering fit we love. For the curvy fit, these mid-rise jeans with a fly front with button closure flatters any figure from waist to thigh.
Plus Size Petite sizing Chart
Please note: Talbots’ standard plus sizes are carried up to 4x/26W.
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My thoughts on the Talbots’ petite plus: This year is bringing the plus community many more options than ever before. I recently tried two pieces from the Talbot plus collection. Of course, we all know all bodies aren’t the same. All plus bodies are not the same. Talbot’s petite line is a welcome addition to my wardrobe. The denim jeans I tried are excellently made. The coloring in them (curvy petite slim ankle jean in black) are very lux. The black in the jean is here to stay. The jeans feel great against the skin. They are soft yet firm by no means will they’ll fade or fall apart after a few washes. I also appreciate the firm waistband. A weak waistband is the worst! What good are jeans you have to keep pulling up? These jeans can be worn with or without a belt and you won’t have a problem. These jeans are made well and packaged for petite plus sized bodies like mine.
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I received the clothing items featured in this blog posts compliments of the Talbots, however; All opinions are my own.
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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any fashion, lifestyle or beauty news.
If you like this content be sure to share it on your social media platforms! Tell a friend to tell a friend.
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“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal”_Unknown
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Plus size travel is more than a trending topic. Many plus size women are coming together to visit popular tourist destinations. Honestly, it’s nothing new but we’re more vocal about it. Here are a few plus size travel groups that are offering a gathering place for curvy travelers.
Fat Girls Traveling This group is run by plus size travel blogger From Annette With Love. Fat Girls Traveling is the voice for the curvy, plus size, Fat Female Traveler. They’re reclaiming the word Fat. We’re leaving the shame and stigma behind and defying the odds. We’re jumping on that plane, jumping in front of the camera and showing the world that we’re here, we love ourselves and they should too! FGT is a Female-Only Group for travel, fashion, and lifestyle: resources, discussions, and support. We are here to encourage each other to live our best lives. A Fat Friendly and Body Positive Space. Unlike other Travel Groups, discussions do not have to be limited to travel.
The good people of Fat Girls Traveling have FAT CAMP 2018 happening Aug 24 – 27, 2018 – Won’t be your run-of-the-mill fat camp, as there won’t be any counting calories or wasting time worrying about weight. Instead, we’ll be doing the exact opposite: eating delicious meals, enjoying Happy Hour, relaxing by the pool, and so much more! There will also be arts & crafts, paddle boarding in the lake, morning yoga, and nightly dance parties – all in a fat-positive environment with some of your favorite social media mavens, travel bloggers, and body-positive advocates.
These incredible influencers will share tips on travel, fashion, and self-love through panel discussions, activities and more. There 100 spots total, so reserve yours today! More trip info here
We’re Going on a TCFCruise! This group is run by plus size lifestyle blogger Marie. You asked and they listened! She has created a plus size fashion experience and what should be an unforgettable event. The inaugural TCFCruise, is being produced by The Curvy Fashionista and B Memorable Events! What better way to relax a little bit, than with your plus size and curvy girlfriends, on a 5-day, 4-night cruise to Cozumel, Mexico? Not only will you relax in luxury in Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas boat, but enjoy TCF private parties, informational workshops, and a little fun in the sun!
The cruise takes place Oct 11 – 15, 2018. There are different available packages with total space for 80. More trip info
Another plus size group is Traveling while Plus Size! This group is run by plus size fashion blogger Garner Style. She say’s about her group “I’m kicking off this group while I am sitting here in the airport ready to start my trip to Tel Aviv. This group is for the plus size women that are well traveled and the women who have never taken a trip, but want too! I travel all the time and want to share some of my tips on reducing the anxiety of traveling while plus size. I also want this group to be a place where you can find great deals on places to go, recommended spots to visit, fabulous hotels and maybe even find a buddy or two to travel with. This is also a great place for reviews, but please critique respectfully.”
Traveling while Plus Size! does not currently have any group trips planned but I’ll be sure to let know when they do!
Do you know of any other plus size groups focused on travel that need to added to this post? Leave their name and link(s) in the comments.
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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any fashion, lifestyle or beauty news.
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“The ones talked about by the fashion bloggers; You know me, I’m a Murcielaga;
In the same lime green as the Air Max joggers.”_Fabolous Money Goes, Honey Stays
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I’m no exercise nut. However, I did recognize I needed to get more active. Becoming more active helps with more than just weight loss. Be active can help with weight management. It also helps with overall health. So for couch surfers like me here are 5 easy and plus size friendly workout tips.
Although moderate physical activity such as brisk walking is safe for most people, health experts suggest that you talk to your doctor before you start an exercise program if you have any unlaying health conditions. It’s important to see your personal physicians annually even if you don’t have any medical conditions.
Being prepared help with the excuses. Before you even walk out the make sure you have a small bag filled with a few things you’ll need. In my bag, I have things like a water bottle, a clean washcloth, headphones, a backup phone battery and a small snack like a banana or nuts. I also have my insurance card and emergency contact information. All of these things help me avoid the “I need to head back home” excuses.
I know life is a runway but if you’re trying to get into the swing of things when it comes to working out keep it cute yet comfortable. Plus size workout gear has come a long way. You can find sports bras, leggings, shorts, headbands, there are even hijabs available now.
If you’re not in a race than it’s not a race. Know your personal limits. I’ve workout with friends and they’re pushed me to do what they’re doing. Don’t hurt yourself trying to keep up with someone else. Go at your own pace.
Boredom will kill the fitness well. Joining a gym is not a must. Something it can be a waste of money if you’re not going to go consistently. On the other hand, going toa gym that offers different fitness course it a great way to stay engaged with your fitness.
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BONUS TIP! Find your personal motivation. I set small fitness goals for myself. Achieving them makes me feel great. What is your fitness motivation?
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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any fashion, lifestyle or beauty news.
If you like this content be sure to share it on your social media platforms! Tell a friend to tell a friend.
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“Florals? For spring? Ground breaking.” _Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada)
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Today is the first official day of spring. I’m so excited! I’ve been ready to step away from Chicago’s winter wear. To me, spring is the like the screen door being opening to summer. When a new season changes it allows for new colors, new trends and yes new purchases, lol.
Photo: FASHION COLOR TREND REPORT
Each season the team at the Pantone Color Institute creates the PANTONE Fashion Color Trend Report; a color overview highlighting the top colors fashion designers showing at NY Fashion Week will be featuring in their collections for the upcoming season. With color on the catwalk a key indicator of the color stories, we can expect to see showing up across all areas of design. The Spring 2018 palette concedited of 12 top colors. Those top colors are Meadowlark, Cherry Tomato, Little Boy Blue, Chili Oil, Pink Lavender, Blooming Dahlia, Arcadia, Ultra Violet, Emperador, Almost Mauve, Spring Crocus and Lime Punch.
Pantone says “The Spring 2018 palette encourages a sense of fun and playful release. With an air of complexity and distinctiveness, we find ourselves in a sanctuary of color that is ideal for some more unique and dramatic color mixing.” This really speaks to my whimsical glam fashion style. Of the 12 top colors, the muse for my spring opening look is arcadia.
Photo: thefatgirloffashion
The color arcadia hints at retro yet at the same time modern, Arcadia is a cooler, cleaner take on green that with its tinge of blue undertone takes us into a new direction for the spring 2018 season.
Photo: Vogue Marc Jacobs Fall ’18
Clearly, I didn’t want to go with the standard its spring look with the pattern of flowers, lol. As a result, I decided to start spring off by color blocking. I saw this Unique 21 Hero suit and I got all the Marc Jacobs Fall ’18 ready to wear vibes. To be creative with color I went with a bright purple makeup bag as a clutch. In addition, I completed by adding a pair of Sam Edelman pointed toe pumps.
With the change in seasons, now is a perfect time to try something new with your fashion. For example, if you don’t have any bright colors in your wardrobe try adding a single solid item of color as a staple piece. Swap out your traditional black sweater for a yellow jacket. Many of us have our favorite work shoes. Try replacing that brown flat with a dark purple flat (depending on the color many will think they’re black but you’ll know better, lol). Or work color in with your accessories. I love a good fedora. This burgundy fedora is affordable and just what spring ordered.
Spring Into Style Collaboration
I did this post as part of a collaboration with 2 other plus size style bloggers. We wanted to showcase how plus size women of different shapes and sizes can welcome spring into their wardrobe in multiple ways. You can find more plus size spring styling with Shamika of froplusfashion.com and Ashley of fabellis.com. This group brings diversity with our style and fashion vision. If you’re looking for style inspiration you’ll definitely find it here.
S H O P T H I S L O O KIf you like this look be sure to share it on your social media platforms!!! Tell a friend to tell a friend.
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“Because no two bodies are alike- and that’s a beautiful thing.” _Loft
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This Is Us (The show that gives me all the feelings I never knew I had) star Chrissy Metz gave us an early look at Loft’s plus-size collection when she wore a pretty polka-dot dress while promoting the show. Now for the rest of us, the wait is over. Plus sizes are now formally available in at Ann Taylor’s Loft.
Here are some fast facts about Loft’s plus line
♦ Loft plus sizes are available in 7 product categories.
♦ Loft is not charging a fat tax (Prices do not increase for plus size items when the same item is available in smaller sizes).
♦Loft stores will take plus size online purchases returns in-stores (Per website 2/5/2018).
♦Loft’s plus size range is size 16 to size 26 (All items are not available in all sizes).
If you have concerns about fit. Loft has a fit guide you can find here. The fit guide features sections on tops, dresses, skirts, pants, jeans, and jackets & blazers. I first tried the loft plus brand through Gwynnie Bee this past September. I must say the pants I tried were definitely Loft quality. You can read my review here.
“We’re excited about the up-and-coming spring 2018 launch of our Plus assortment, which will continue to expand Loft’s democratic reach,” Muto said. “While we have significant work ahead of us at our value fashion segment, we see meaningful opportunity.” Gary Muto, president and chief executive officer of Ascena brands tells WWD.
Now that the brand plus sizes has launched here are some things I need from Loft to welcome plus-size women such as myself to the brand. Have plus sizes in store! Make it clear on the website which stores carry plus sizes in-store. As a plus size woman I’m aware many brands don’t carry plus sizes in every store but I’m not comfortable supporting lines that have brick and mortar stores but choose to make plus sizes online only. Also, keep the plus size styles the same as the straight size line. We love Loft for the loft ready to wear polished work style so don’t change for women with a larger waistline. I would like to see plus size women of large sizes and varies shapes on your social media. Body positive isn’t just hourglass women that are size 14 or 16. We don’t want the plus line to turn pullover tops, stretch pants and leggings. In looking at the first collection Loft is off to a great start! Here are few pieces I’m loving from the launch.
Floral Textured Ruffle Shell | Slim Cuffed Pants
Distressed Denim Jacket | Floral Textured Henley Dress
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Ruffled Cold Shoulder Tee | Patchwork Straight Flip Cuff Jeans
Wildflower Pleated Shell | Skinny Slit Ankle Pants
Grab your clutches ladies because PLUS SIZES are available now at select Loft stores and online at Loft.com.
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DOES THE LOFT’S NEW PLUS SIZE OPTIONS SPEAK TO YOUR ?
Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any plus size news.
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