Plus Size Formal Wear For Women

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Sewing Patterns for You (Reader Request)

I recently had a query from a reader that I thought was super important to address: where can we buy patterns if it looks like the "big 4" companies aren't releasing new patterns for the 14+ woman? Instead of looking forward, I look back for new styles. You might not be able to find a dress in your preferred style in current patterns, but you might be able to find it if you go back. If we can't get new patterns made for us, and you don't know how to draft, this is a great option.

Check out these sources that I use for vintage patterns in plus sizes:

Decades of Style Pattern Company: Bust sizes through 46" are available on this site.

LanetzLiving.net: Search for vintage patterns up to a size 50" bust

EvaDress.com: Vintage patterns in bust sizes 44", 46", 48"

Also, here are a couple additional contemporary sources: FashionPatterns.com and Burda Style

Sewing Patterns for You (Reader Request) originally appeared on About.com Plus-Size Fashion on Friday, September 3rd, 2010 at 17:41:35.

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Pattern Trends for Fall

Are you a pattern addict? It's easy to fall into the solid world if you shop online, because then you don't have to take as many risks with your purchase. If you hate getting into one of those "pay for returns" traps, you might buy pieces in solids as a result. For fall, let's try to branch out just a bit and splurge on a trendy pattern or two!

Animal Print: Animal print is back again. Some of you are groaning about this, I know, but trust me here-- there's one look that will definitely work for you. Missphit.com has a Cheetah Crop Jacket ($54) that has a swing shape and 3/4 sleeves, and it looks perfect with gloves when it gets colder. Other smart animal-print items include trimmed shoes and lingerie.

Double Prints: Have you considered layering a pattern on a pattern? Choose a black-and-white blazer of your choice in a medium or large-size print, and layer it over a camisole or blouse in an identical colorway, but with a different sized print. This look isn't for the faint of heart or the novice, but it sure is a pretty one if you can pull it off.

Photo (c) Missphit

Pattern Trends for Fall originally appeared on About.com Plus-Size Fashion on Tuesday, August 31st, 2010 at 23:16:35.

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Getting Warmer: Longlines and Garter Belts

I have discovered another new plus-size lingerie source, called Secrets in Lace. Remember my search for a Joan Harris, vintage-inspired bust? I have dug up an exceptional longline bra (Nicole Longline) and a fabulous Allure Garter Belt, shown. Now we're talking!

My next step in this lingerie-hunting journey is to find bullet bras and cone bras for extended sizes, which I suspect will be three times as hard as snapping up these pieces. I've noticed that the vintage-inspired bra companies like to size down according to old-fashioned measurements, which means that your usual size will be too small, and you'll need to size up to get the right fit. At least it will be an adventure.

Photo (c) Secrets in Lace

Getting Warmer: Longlines and Garter Belts originally appeared on About.com Plus-Size Fashion on Tuesday, August 31st, 2010 at 13:12:21.

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Ladies, I Want a "Joan Harris" Bust

After receiving all those emails about lingerie, I wanted to add something else about another project I am working on: I am trying to source a number of bras that give us the original "Joan Harris" bustline. I've been watching far too much Mad Men, and I am going to be hunting down the most comfortable old-school bras that lift our busts higher without falling into the smooth-cupped, push up style of modern day. I will be updating you on my progress!

If you have any recommendations, I am always interested.

Ladies, I Want a "Joan Harris" Bust originally appeared on About.com Plus-Size Fashion on Sunday, August 29th, 2010 at 21:38:34.

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