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Inside the Dressing Room: Lane Bryant and Cacique Bra Shopping

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I can't believe I forgot to post this video on my blog. Bad blogger! *slaps self on the hand* Here is an Inside the Dressing Room video I uploaded on my YouTube channel at the beginning of the year. I was really nervous, like, really, really, really nervous, yet excited to film this video. For the first time I captured my bra shopping experience on film. That's right, I showed "the girls' on camera. I was hesitant at first, but I adjusted my bra straps and got over it. If thin, Victoria's Secret models can show themselves in a bra, why can't I? Why can't plus size woman do the same?


Women of all sizes have a right to owning their body and wearing fabulous undergarments. After all, they are the foundation to a great wardrobe. I hope you enjoy this video and find it helpful. Most importantly, I hope this video encourages you to embrace your body and love yourself.

The Quintessential California Girl feat. Living Doll LA

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Growing up I always saw girls around the city that looked so California. They wore flowy tops with long, beach wavy hair and fresh makeup. They accessorized with oversized sunglasses, floppy hats, and larger than life tote bags. It was a uniform look I could not wear because none of those pieces were available in my size. Instead of the cool, Californian look, I opted for office wear or plain t-shirts and jeans because my in-store choices were extremely limited.

My inner fifteen-year old jumped for joy when Living Doll Los Angeles told me about their new plus size range. Finally, screamed my teen self, I can dress like those girls. Living Doll LA is all about the fashion girl--the girl who plays with different styles boldly and confidently; Finally, this girl had her chance to play with the California Boho look.

Top c/o Living Doll Los Angeles, Hat and Sunglasses by Wet Seal, Leggings by Torrid, Shoes by Dexflex via Payless, Handbag by Louis Vuitton.

This kimono fringe top is everything! I received compliments on it everywhere I went, from the post office to the dentist, even while pumping gas. The fringe is out of the world. It has so much movement, yet doesn’t get in the way of every single move I make. I paired the top with my naturally wavy hair and a hat from Wet Seal (I knew that hat would come in handy one of these days). I wore black leggings to compliment the fringe and black velvet print and nude flats to compliment the taupe. I topped off the outfit with my huge Neverfull GM and a light wash of pink-purple lipstick.


I’m impressed with the quality of LDLA. The feel and make of this top, along with another item I received, is so nice. The fit is just right, which is something that worried me considering LDLA is junior clothing. I hope they consider expanding sizes because I want girls on the larger side of plus to get in on this fun / youthful / edgy / romantic / affordable / made in the USA brand.

What is a style you admired as a teen, but couldn’t wear because it wasn’t available in your size? Share in a comment!

Fashion Girl Gets Techie #TabletCrew

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All this week I'm sharing things I love at the moment in the spirit of Valentine's Day. First up: the Samsung Galaxy Tab3. I know my blog is far from a tech one, but I have a soft spot for gadgets, especially those that connect me to you--yes, you, the one reading this right now. All together now: Aww!

As a part of the #TabletCrew, I'm sharing how I use my #IntelTablet on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. I'm also sharing links to cool ideas and news about the ever-increasing use of tablets. I posted this one earlier today about how to turn your tablet into a photo booth. I did something similar with my point-and-shoot camera for my ten year high school reunion. Everyone had so much fun taking photos on their own time, as many times as they pleased. Be sure to follow me to see this fashion girl get even more techie.

#spon: I'm required to disclose a relationship between our site and Intel. This could include the Intel Corporation providing us w/content, product, access or other forms of payment.

Chop, Chop

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Things I'm loving this week part 2: my new hair! I finally chopped it off after having an urge to go short for a couple months. I needed a change---something new, something refreshing, something fun. I showed my stylist photos for inspiration (think: long bob a la Ashley Benson and street style photos from Pinterest). He took the idea and ran with it. He cut off a good eight inches, made the back slightly shorter than the front, and added blunt bangs. I feel so brand new with this long bob, like a new woman with fresh energy. Amazing how one haircut can do that you. I can't wait to see how the 'do looks with future outfits. I'll have one up later this week!

Lady in Red

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Happy Valentine's Day! I hope you're feeling the love today. Whether it's from your Valentine, family, bestie, or pet, love is love and we all deserve it (especially self-love)! Today's outfit made me blush as soon as I put it on. I forgot how great red looks on me. *makes mental note to buy more red clothing* The red lace dress is from London Times circa a year ago. It serves as a reminder to never dismiss an item because it's not in your size. I'm a size 24, sometimes a 26. This size 22 dress fit me perfectly. The belt it came with didn't come close to wrapping around my waist, but that's A-OK. I'm not much of a belt-wearer anyway. 


Dress by London Times, Shoes by Dexflex via Payless, Clutch from Julia Vogue, 
Earrings from Charming Charlie, and Lipstick by Kate Moss for Rimmel London #09.

Inside the Dressing Room: Wet Seal Plus

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A few days ago I met with the buying and visual merchandising team for Wet Seal Plus. I loved meeting them and sharing your thoughts, as well as my own, on the importance of their plus size range. I shared all of your concerns with them, from sizing and availability to styles and shopping experiences for plus sizes. They heard you loud and clear and value your feedback.

After talking with them, I shopped their new arrivals, only to find myself attracted to all their basics. I am so glad they are carrying more everyday t-shirts! These are tees you can layer, wear alone, and accessorize with just about everything. I'll share all the tops I bought in an upcoming haul. Until then, enjoy this new episode of Inside the Dressing Room. Thanks for watching!


P.S. The meeting I had with the team proves how important YOUR opinion is to retailers. Never be afraid to voice it. If we don't speak up, our voices will never be heard and our shopping options will not grow.

Black and White

Winter White


Boho Glam

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In this outfit video, I mixed a little boho glam with everyday wardrobe essentials. I am absolutely obsessed with the Pink Pewter stretch band that inspired this look. It's just so sparkly and beautiful. I could wear it every day, but I don't think my forehead would be too happy with me. Enjoy watching this OOTD video and have a great weekend!

Isabel Toledo for Lane Bryant on a Size 24 Body

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I tried on a few pieces from the Isabel Toledo for Lane Bryant collection yesterday. My local store didn't have all the pieces yet. Luckily, they had two of the four dresses I coveted. The black dress is gorgeous! Lace, V neckline in the front and back, lightweight, and oh so soft. The second dress, though I love the design, didn't work for me. I went up two sizes and there still wasn't enough stretch. Case and point: the gaping between the buttons on my stomach.

I also purchased a white sleeveless top with a lace panel and damask-ish illustration. The collection, as a whole, is beautiful. I'm really impressed with the designs, modern touches, and variety in styles. What do you think about the collection? Do you plan on buying or trying anything on?

How to Wear a Peplum on Sunday

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Sundays usually mean relaxing at home or brunch with a little bit of shopping. I wear an outfit light on accessories and rich in color when it's the latter. The Kiyonna Posh Peplum Top was the perfect item to end the weekend. Normally I wear peplums in a formal way (think: pencil skirt, heels, and sparkle). Today I dressed it down with a pair of boyfriend jeans and wedges. I love the relaxed yet pulled together feel of this look. It's not too complicated and appropriate for the best accessory of them all, a mimosa with extra champagne.


Thanks to Kiyonna for sending me the beautiful peplum top. As a member of Kiyonna's Blogger Brigade, I will share a piece from their shop every so often. I adore their Blogger Brigade and Real Curves movement. From bloggers and brides to staff members and customers, the program features styles worn by women of all sizes. It's a beautiful thing considering many plus size shoppers, especially those that shop online, want to see plus size fashion on a body similar to their own. Kudos to Kiyonna for making this happen!

Kiyonna posh ponte peplum top, Lane Bryant weekend jeans and patent wedge sandalsand Louis Vuitton Pochette Accessories.

Could this be the Perfect Blush?

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Ladies and gents, I may have found the perfect blush! It's seen here by one of my faves Christina Hendricks from Mad Men. Side note: the new season starts in a few weeks! Who else is excited? This is MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Blush in shade #210 Cool Pink. After X amount of years of being a beauty-obsessed twenty-something, I have yet to find the perfect blush. It's either too warm or lacks enough pigment. As a die-hard fan of MUFE face makeup, I can't wait to try out the new HD Blush. I'll let you know how I like it in an upcoming review or makeup tutorial on my YouTube channel!



We have exciting beauty news straight from the set of Mad Men! To add a flirty flush of color to the show’s sexy star Christina Hendricks, celebrity makeup artist Vanessa Scali used the new MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Blush in shade #210.   
The new HD Blush ($26), launching in Sephora stores nationwide this month, is a light and creamy formula that blends seamlessly into skin for natural-looking color. Its second-skin texture allows for perfect application and soft-focus effect diffuses light for a radiant come-hither glow. Available in 16 shades, there’s a shade for everyone, making the blush this spring’s must-have beauty essential. 
Christina’s fiery femme-fatale character Joan Harris returns April 13 in the new season of Mad Men and said this about her new favorite beauty product, “My makeup artist introduced me to the HD Blush, and I love it. It melts into my skin, leaving the perfect flush. - via Make Up For Ever

Friday Faves: ELOQUII

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I love shopping. Duh. Any moment that is not spent working, is spent online window shopping. I bookmark, pin, and share so many of my favorites. Why not post them on my blog, too? I could not think of a better store than ELOQUII to feature for my first installment of Friday Faves. The once defunct plus size fashion brand for sizes 14-24 is back and better than ever. Under new, independent ownership with members from the original team, ELOQUII relaunched in late February with pieces that are fashion-forward, colorful, structured, and everything in between. Keep scrolling to look at my current favorites! Which do you like the most?

Don't Let Anyone Dull Your Sparkle (Pep Talk + OOTD Video)

My Weekend Look

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I love a good white tee and jeans. I also love weekends. Put them together and I’m pretty much guaranteed to have a good time. This past weekend was no exception. I’ve had a head cold since Tuesday. So, I wore my trusty tee and new Lane Bryant Weekend Jeans to make me feel better. The two wardrobe staples coupled with my favorite J.Crew Panama hat and Wet Seal scarf almost made me forget I was sick.

I love the simplicity of a t-shirt and jeans. It’s a timeless look that can be accessorized in any way, for almost any event. I could wear the combination every day, but I’m afraid my other clothes would get extremely jealous. To keep peace in my closet, the outfit is saved for Saturday or Sunday. Once the end of the work week rolls around, it’s just me, the weekend, and my t-shirt and jeans.
Wet Seal+ white t-shirt and paisley elephant scarf, Lane Bryant weekend jeans and wedge sandals, J.Crew Panama hat,
Handbag gifted from grandma, and Old Navy sunglasses.

Battling the Chill in BB Dakota & Gwynnie Bee

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I may not live in the coldest place on earth. But, that's not to say California does not have its share of cold, rain, and gloom. On those days, I keep my look simple and warm with a pretty sweater and jeans. This sweater is by BB Dakota via Gwynnie Bee. I have never tried the brand, so it was nice to experience and test it out hassle-free with the monthly subscription clothing service. The sweater, a size 3X, fits true to size and features the most romantic rose pattern. I love wearing it with my boyfriend jeans for a casual, daytime look. I could also see myself layering it over a skater skirt and nude flats when I'm feeling a little flirty.

BB Dakota sweater c/o Gwynnie Bee, Lane Bryant jeans and wedges, Julia Vogue necklace. 

Click here to try Gwynnie Bee free for 30 days! They carry fashion for sizes 10 - 32, with unlimited exchanges each month. Shop, wear, buy or exchange for something new. See my past looks with Gwynnie Bee here.

Friday Faves: IGIGI Spring 2014

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My apologies for the one day late Friday Faves post. I was out with a friend enjoying the beautiful weather and shopping at the new Ulta in town. Speaking of Ulta, I'll have a makeup haul on my youtube channel soon. Subscribe to see it first! Ok, now back to fashion. Below are my faves from IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel's new spring collection appropriately titled The Fresh Sophisticate. The new arrivals are filled with spring colors, grown woman silhouettes, and beautiful patterns. Most of the collection is available now on igigi.com Which piece is your fave?

CHUB RUB

Twirling in Tulle

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For every person, there is one piece of clothing that makes them feel special. For me, that item is Kiyonna's Twirling in Tulle skirt. It ties into my romantic, classic style and makes me feel extraordinary. I love that I can dress it up with heels and a button up or, like I did in today’s outfit, make it a little more dressy-casual with a v-neck tee and flats. Wear this skirt; I guarantee you will feel the same way.

Tulle skirt c/o Kiyonna, T-shirt by Wet Seal, and Flats by Dexflex via Payless.

What I Wore in Vegas

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Hi! I'm back from my much-needed getaway to Vegas. I regret not photographing all my outfits throughout our four day stay, but I'm happy to at least have one to share with you. I wore this look on Saturday. It was a relaxing day, so the Lane Bryant floral chiffon maxi dress and J. Crew panama hat were the perfect items to wear. A dress like this is always no-fuss, easy to accessorize, and beyond comfortable. If you're in the market for a spring/summer dress, I highly recommend this one!


Even though I didn't take photos of all my looks, you can check out my Vegas vlog for clips from the vacation. Childish Gambino, Armin Van Buuren, food, shopping, and life-size Jenga; you can watch it all in the video below. :)

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