In the past, I found it a bit difficult finding plus-size clothing that was well structured, reasonably priced, and looked nice.  I have seen some plus-size clothing that either lacked a modern edge, aged me beyond my years, or it looked – frankly speaking, tawdry. Shopping was frustrating and discouraging at times. I am so glad I “discovered” some places that offered exactly what I was looking for…and I am going to share that information with you.

Dresses are my absolute favorite article of clothing to wear.  From wrap dresses to sheath dresses to almost everything in between -to me, dresses encompass everything feminine and ladylike.  They can be worn for almost any occasion, and there are several places I like to go to purchase them.

Let’s begin with www.igigi.com. The clothing from this designer is very well made and of great quality. Their dresses have a “modest-sexiness” about them. IGIGI provides appropriate attire for day, evening, cocktail events, and even weddings from sizes 12-32. Now, you may go into sticker shock – the dresses typically start at $118.  However, I will say it is well worth it.  IGIGI is a great place to get well-structured staple pieces that will remain in your wardrobe for a good length of time.

Nordstrom is also on my list of favorite places to shop. Quite a few people are surprised to learn that Nordstrom is a great place to shop.  I say this because they are known to carry high-end designer clothing, which they do – and it can be pricey. However, Nordstrom has wonderful sales! And the best way to get the most out of those sales, in my opinion, is online. You will be able to find a lot of clothing options online at Nordstrom.  You can initiate a live chat or call if you have questions while you are shopping. But, if you’re not much of an online shopper, Nordstrom has a very nice in store plus-size section called Encore, which carries apparel for every occasion a full-figured shopper will need. I don’t think I need to even address their phenomenal customer service.

Encore provides clothing from numerous designers – and one of my favorite dress labels sold there is Adrianna Papell.

What I like most about the Adrianna Pappell dresses is the femininity of the designs. This designer uses a lot of color, lace and fabric overlay to create, what I consider to be, soft ladylike designs. You will be able to find dresses for formal events, church, work, casual gatherings and even play time. The prices typically range between $120 and $380.

Another go to spot for me when I am shopping for dresses is Talbots. This is a great place to find career apparel.  They carry suits and separates, dresses and skirts that are perfect for any office environment. Talbots also has a huge collection of casual apparel.  This store has amazing sales as well. They hold their “Red Hanger” sale, which offers up to 60% off of original prices. Great-right?

Next on my list of places to shop for dresses is Zappos. This particular store is on my list because of a certain designer by the name of Rachel Pally. In my opinion, if you are looking for a great maxi dress – Rachel Pally is the way to go. The design of these dresses is simple yet sophisticated and the fabric is amazingly soft and comfortable. The prices are a bit steep, but you’ll have the dresses for several years. You can find Rachel Pally dresses on Zappos website along with a few other plus-size designers like Michael Kors and Tahari.

The last stop on this shopping trip is eShakti.  I adore this online store because they provide clothing from sizes 0-36 and you can customize their designs to your size, style, and height. Check them out at www.eshakti.com . They have clothing that is suitable for every occasion or event.

The clothing found on eShakti has a vintage look with a modern twist.  I am quite fond of the classic fashions of the 1950s/1960s, and I think eShakti does a great job replicating those looks.

Please check out the places I’ve mentioned and continue to follow my blog to see the rest of my store picks. To be continued…

Until the next time, be you and most importantly…love you.

Being uniquely you is being uniquely beautiful.

B.B.