Shop Shop Shop until you Drop Drop Drop

Hi there,

How goes it?

Today there are so many great styles for plus sizes and the fabrics and colors are fantastic. No matter what shape you are, the range available is just great but can get a little overwhelming

Never fear, just found this article to help you get organized and turn a chore into a great shopping experience. Get the hang of it and you will shop, shop shop until you drop drop drop.

Okay, get going and have fun.

Cheers

CTB

PS Don't forget to check out our freebees at our sewing site here



Savvy Shopping For Clothing In Plus Sizes
by: Chirsty Diaz

Shopping for clothing in plus sizes can often be a
confusing, overwhelming chore. With a certain amount of
shopping savvy, you can turn your next shopping excursion
into a positive, productive experience. The following expert
tips will streamline your style and help you select the
best clothing in plus sizes for you.

Make A List

Before you head to the local clothing for plus sizes
retailer, take an inventory of what you have in your closet.
Ask yourself, "What clothes make me feel good?" Remove
items that you haven't worn for six months or longer. Make a
list of what you are keeping and what you think you need to
purchase. Keep this list with you when you head to the
stores.

Don't Confuse A Trend For True Style

Yves Saint Laurent had it right when he said, "Fashions
fade; style is eternal." Consider what you love to wear. Do
you have a flattering cashmere sweater, or drawer full of
signature scarves? Build your wardrobe around your
favorites. Don't feel tempted to buy every fad or trend. You
don't have to subject yourself to those "must-have" gauchos
this season. You won't feel comfortable in them anyway if
they are not right for your personal style or body type.
Stick to your tried and true fashion staples, and build
around those pieces. A good rule of thumb is to have seventy
percent of your wardrobe classic pieces and the other
thirty percent dedicated to the fun, funky items that spice
up your look.

Know When To Shop

It's always helpful to remember that stores have sales and
seasonal clearances on a regular basis. Many stores will
offer "beginning of the season" sales of ten to thirty
percent, but they will give deep discounts on the same
merchandise by the end of the season. So, if you are looking
for a trendy item that will only be wearable for one
season, pay the higher price and wear it all season. If you
are in need of classic items like sweaters, black trousers,
and white blouses, buy them at the end of the season to
wear next year. You'll delight in knowing that you paid a
fraction of their original cost.

Splurge Occasionally - But Only On The Necessities

It's always a good idea to buy the best quality staple items
that you can afford. Don't scrimp on shoes, handbags, or
undergarments. You won't be fooling anyone with poor quality
pumps, a knock-off designer purse, or an ill-fitting bra.
You will feel more confident and special with high quality
basics. They also are made to last. One well-made handbag or
pair of shoes can last years.

Enjoy Shopping

Finally, make sure to have fun when you shop. Be kind to
yourself when trying on different styles (even fashion
models don't look good in everything), ask for help when you
need it, and remember to buy only what makes you feel
special and comfortable.

About The Author

Christy Diaz is a fashion advisor for plus size women. She
has been helping women of all sizes look their absolute best
while helping them find fantastic deals on plus size
clothing. For the hottest tips, secrets and additonal
articles , not to mention some great, plus size deals visit
http://www.curvy-lady.com

Most important buttonhole

Hi to All,

This is a quick tip for today, Do you know which is the most important buttonhole? No….. then I’m about to tell you and I might add, when I found this tip, it made my fitting problems disappear. So here is the……

Most important buttonhole

When your garment is nearly finished is the time to mark the buttonholes and buttons.

Mostly you start at the top and mark down, or copy where the pattern is marked.

The most important button and buttonhole is the one on the bust point.

Now you need to know just exactly where your bust point is, and here is how you do it.
Drop a tape measure from where the neck edge and shoulder seamline meet, letting it fall over your bust.
The point where the tape falls away from your body is your bust point.

At this point is where the buttonhole should be placed. If you are doing vertical buttonholes, then place the top of the buttonhole 1/8 inch above the bust point level.

Space your remaining buttonholes up and down from this one.

See, so easy when you know how.


Free Pattern site http://www.123moreforu.com/patterns.html

SewMoreForU is still available at the special price of $27.77 with the bonuses thrown in, 5 extra eBooks
http://www.123moreforu.com


SewMoreForU covers all the basics for your sewing as well as information on turning a hobby into a business, body shapes and lots more. Take a look at our contents and see what you will get http://www.123moreforu.com/contents.html

See you later

Take care

Carmel

Building a solid Wardrobe Foundation

Building a solid Wardrobe Foundation

 

For some people building a wardrobe simply means going out and buying clothes and shoes that are comfortable. For others shopping is a second religion for them so building a wardrobe has more to do with how many times a week they can go shopping than what is actually in there closet. But there are others that are working with tight budgets so going shopping all the time to build a sensible stylish wardrobe is important for both work and casual time. I have been talking with my wife about how she goes about building her wardrobe and she gave a few simple tips that I am going to share with you. One of the things that she told me that stuck with me the most was, "Don't buy special occasion clothes. Buy a few pieces that no matter where you go or what you are doing they will be ok to wear."

 

Know your Bodyshape
First off as a Plus size man or woman not everything will fit your bodyshape so that's the first step to make sure that you know your bodyshape and if it is something that is not flattering to your bodyshape then its not for you. This is the number one reason that lots of Plus people are unhappy with there clothes.

 

Buy a core set of clothes
This will be the foundation of your entire wardrobe. In this first series I'm going to concentrate on the women then I will follow up with the men. These are the pieces that you should have and once you have these you can build on your closet to such a degree that people will think that you have a closet full of clothes when in actuality you only have a modest collection.

 

Skirts
Purchasing a basic black and blue skirt that comes to the knee or below is a must. Not only do these two colors go with just about anything but there is no need to go out and buy a new skirt for every top that you own. Whether there is a pattern or strip on the skirt is up to your individual tastes.

 

Pants
The same rule for skirts can also apply to pants. Basic black or blue to begin with then if you want to add color that's up to you but still stick with the basics for now because you are building your foundation that will take you thru at least two seasons.

 

Tops
Tops are the key to making your wardrobe seem like you have a ton of clothes. Having at least two dozens tops of various styles and colors to match your tastes is just the perfect thing to set off your wardrobe.

 

Shoes
With the introduction of tennis shoes into the workplace it makes it tough sometimes for some ladies to tie together an outfit without looking like they are about to head out for a day of errands. Sticking with our foundation theme then when it comes to shoes the type shoes that are your core shoes depends on your job. If you have a job that you stand all day then high heels are not the shoe for you, a modest pump or flat is the direction that you need to go. If standing is not an issue then a heel is ok but if your not a heel person then obviously a mule or sandal would be a great start.

Curves Hit the Beach

Curves Hit the Beach: women’s guide to plus size swim wear online

Stuck inside because you cannot find stylish and sexy swim wear in your size? Then get ready to hit the beach; this article guides you to the top plus size swim wear stores found on the web.

Summer is with us. The sun is shining, the beaches are glistening and everyone is ready to it the golden sands; ready to relax and enjoy the hottest season of the year.

However, you find yourself stuck indoors with nothing to wear! No stylish swimsuit at hand to stroll down the beach in, thinking “it’s impossible, at my size, to find sexy, stylish and fun beach wear!” Well think again ladies!

Nowadays us large and lovely ladies have a vast selection of plus size swim wear available to spice up our wardrobe and make us look sizzling this summer. All that is needed is a PC, an Internet connection and a comfy chair. Sit back and shop away, choosing from the best selection of plus size swim wear online whilst sipping on that ice-cold cocktail. It’s that easy!

Girl, the Internet makes shopping fun, easy and so simple. No matter what size you are, you will definitely find something to flatter your figure. There is a handful of good quality plus size stores online which offer swim wear up to size 40! Here is a list of my favourite plus size swim wear stores, the ones which I usually recommend to friend, family and colleagues:

• Zaftique: mature, stylish and sophisticated styles in sizes 0Z to 6Z (12/14 to 36/38).

• Torrid: young and trendy designs in sizes 0 to 4 (12/14 to 26/28).

• Junonia: for women who are ready for action! Styles in sizes 0X to 6X (14/16 to 38/40).

• Big On Batik: accessories ahoy! Catering for sizes 1X to 8X.

• Alight: what else can you need? A multitude of designers available here, in sizes 14W to 28W.

More info can be found at http://www.pasazz.net/plus-size-swim-wear.html.

So this season, all big beautiful ladies have no excuse to stay in at home. Go strut your stuff on the beach! Show off those curves in your brand new swim wear!

About the author:
Maya Matthews is the resident writer at http://www.pasazz.net,the plus size clothing directory. A plus size women herself, Maya strives to provide plus size ladies with fashion and lifestyle tips and ideas. Please visit the plus size clothing directory at http://www.pasazz.netto read more articles and find the top online plus size stores.

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Your guide to sewing SewMoreForU

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Sleeves and Basting for Plus Sizes

Hi everyone,

I have had a few day away but am back now and rearing to go.

I found an article I thought might help some of you, it's by Barabra Deckert on Plus Size Sewing for sleeves, which are the more comfortable, cut-on or set-in.

You can take a look here
It's from SewNews magazine

Here is another which might help you too.. click here
It will give you the good info on why are basted fittings important to pattern alterations?

If you would like a subscriptio to Sew News Magazine there is a link for you in the side bar, just click it to see the current special offer.

When sewing for any size, it's important to get the fit right and basting or tacking is the best way to do this. I know it takes more time, but if you are going to the trouble of taking the time to sew a garment for yourself, then sewing the right way is much easier than going at it a bit slap dash.

Once I started sewing the right way, there is no way I could go back to sewing any other way, I I used to rush my sewing when I was very young, had to have it finished "yeterday".

Take your time when you sew and take it step by step and you will be amazed at how quickly you will finish sewing your outfit. And....the added bonus..... it will look great!!!

Okay now, hope you learn some new sewing techniques, keep at it.

Till next time

Cheers

Carmel

PS You can pick up great tips, techniques and the way do sew them in my new book SewMoreForU, take a look click here, you can even have a browse through the book.

Check out the free patterns here

Twelve Ways To Look Slimmer Instantly

Hi there,

Has your week-end been a good one? Mine was very busy, my daughter has just bought her first apartment and it needed some TLC before she moves in. So it has been washing walls, sanding skirting boards and door frames etc, getting it all ready to paint. So today I'm a bit sore, a few muscles that haven't been used for a while are complaining today.

Still tomorrow should be better, I hope.

Now I have found this article for us and I hope you will find it interesting. It has some really good tips for looking slimmer.

I'm going to take my aching muscles and have a lovely long soak.

Catch you in a day or so.

Cheers

Carmel



Twelve Ways To Look Slimmer Instantly


Do you have at least one garment in your closet that you never wear because it makes you look fat? Maybe you take it out and try it on every now and then but it still doesn't flatter. It doesn't matter what you weigh you can easily make yourself look fat with the wrong clothes. Learn these basic camouflage rules and you'll never make the same mistake again.


1. Avoid anything stiff. A stiff garment forms a square box around you. It doesn't fall into flattering loose folds but stands out on its own making even skinny people look large. Having a shape is important whatever your size.


2. The same goes for the large tents that we try to camouflage ourselves in. It doesn't work we just look larger. Shape is needed.


3. Other than in your accessories don't wear anything shiny. Shiny is great for jewelry, bags, decorative motifs, scarves, but not for a whole garment. Shine reflects the light making you look bigger and showing every curve and bump.


4. You know about avoiding horizontal stripes but are you aware of hidden stripes? A belt in a contrasting shade, large top pockets, contrasting ribbing on the bottom of a jersey? These are all stripes and can make you look larger than you wish. Look carefully at a garment to check for these design traps and avoid them.


5. Conversely, subtle vertical stripes are (usually) your friend. Find them in a garment's style and stitching, a deeply cut V-necked jacket, a silk scarf hanging loosely, long beads, the drape of pants or skirt etc.


6. But vertical stripes on tightly clinging leggings or pants are not flattering. The stripes follow your curves, emphasizing them cruelly.


7. Avoid bulky fabrics such as quilted parkas- these often offend on two counts, one by horizontally machined quilting and another by too much padding. They look enormous and so does anyone who wears them. Thick mohair jumpers are another fattener. Thinner fabrics, such as polar fleece, can be equally warm so there is no need to bulk up.


8. On the other hand don't buy cheap thin fabrics. A fabric must have enough body to hang well rather than clinging. Even T-Shirts in cheap thin fabrics look dreadful and they don't last as long so are not really cheaper. Buy fewer and buy quality.


9. Monochrome dressing is slimming and elegant. Dress in one color from top to toe, preferably a dark neutral. For interest vary textures or add color in your accessories. A plain black outfit with a turquoise silk scarf or bright pink earrings for example.


10. Don't wear frills and ruffles if you have passed your 10th birthday. They add bulk and look tacky.


11. Beware of clothes that are too small, they are fattening. Not only are they unflattering but wearing them makes you feel fat all day. If a garment is tight chuck it out or pack it away until it fits again.


12. If you have put on a pound or two don't forget to check your bra. Does it still fit? Its so easy to forget and to keep wearing a bra that fitted once. Badly fitting bras create horrible bulges across your back, treat yourself to a new one.



If you bear these tips in mind when shopping for clothes you will have a much better chance of losing a pound or two and looking great.


For information about weight loss and fitness and to lose actual pounds visit http://www.trim-you.com/

About the author:
This article was written by Liz Beresford. Liz is a registered nurse and owns and operates http://www.trim-you.comwhere you can find news and up to date information about various weight loss diets and supplements.

A brief history of Lingerie

Hi all,

No matter what size you are, if you feel good you will look good.

Lingerie is that something which can make us feel good and like so many other things today, we have choice and much of it. And.....no matter what size you are, there are some beautiful pieces to get you that good feeling.

I found this article on the history of lingerie interesting and thought you may too.

I'm getting together information for an addition to my sewing book "SewMoreForU" for Plus Sizes who want to sew their own wardrobe.

I would appreciate any questions or tips you may have about sewing for Plus Sizes, whether it be for yourself or someone you know. I would like to make this the best guide yet. You can leave question or tip here

Thanks in advance

All the best

Carmel



A brief history of Lingerie

1907: American Vogue illustrated a rigid, boned brassiere with no division between the breasts. Believe it or not, it was actually worn over the corset .
1913: Mary Phelps devised the first modern bra with two lacy hankerchiefs and some help from her maid. The following year she sold the patent to a Mr Warner whom she had met at a garden party. That discussion would have been interesting.
1918: Corset-makers were running up bras designed to flatten rather than enhance. This did not last too long. You see, they were ignoring the fact that curves are much more alluring than flatness.
1925: Bras first had divisions between the breasts and adjustable straps. Thus, the first bra was introduced.
1938: Finally acknowledging that breasts did not come in standard sizes, bra-makers introduced A,B, C and D cups. Men everywhere rejoiced.
1940: Padding was first sneaked into bra cups. It was a deceptive and manipulative move. To this day, not one male has complained.
1950s: Strapless bras appeared and women were now able to wear an off-the-shoulder dress and still use a bra.
1959: Warners and Du Pont produced Lycra which we have continued to use ever since then. As a result, the many varied fashions and designs of lingerie have continued to expand.
1965: The no-bra bra was introduced to give support with a nothing-under effect. Half-hearted women’s libbers rejoiced. Males unconsciously decided to let women's libbers enjoy themselves while they continued to enjoy women who looked good in a nice set of sexy lingerie.
1973: The first no-bounce sports bra was introduced. Males ignored this change. So what!
1980s: Frederick's of Hollywood and Victoria's Secrets become national icons. Men find themselves ordering lingerie from catelogs and going into mall stores to purchase female lingerie with total abandon.
1990s: The Internet is filled with sites that feature lingerie catalogs and user friendly steps to order some of the most risque' lingerie available anywhere.
2000: For those who plunge in and decide to enjoy this form of sexuality, it just keeps getting better and better and better (The above all thanks to www.romanceopedia.com)

Evidently sometime around 1889 a certain Madame Cudelle did the unthinkable. She apparently cut out the midriff of her corset to allow more movement from the waist. And voila! We had the brassiere. (The idea behind the corset as the
primary undergarment was to lessen a women's attributes. A practice still prevalent in certain cultures to this day but that's another story...)

Since then it has not been possible to contain the primary, most visible and most appreciated part of the female anatomy. The breasts. Odes have been dedicated to these twin towers of pleasure. Men have lost themselves in expressing how they feel about a woman's breasts. Was it not the great poet eecummings who said :"between the breasts of bestial Marj lie large men"?
But more importantly lingerie and the breast go together like a hand and glove, fish and water, sun and sky, love and romance. What is it about a woman dressed in sexy lingerie that gets a man's pulse racing. What promise of untold pleasure lurks beneath those skimpy sexy garments?

Lingerie tittilates,captivates drives a man wild with passion and desire precisely because that is the intention behind lingerie. It embodies pleasure or rather the promise of pleasure. But not in a staid fashion. Nay, in a manner that speaks of nights of wild passion!

Who can resist a woman in sexy lingerie? In fact an entire industry has sprung up around lingerie and women and men are spending serious money on sexy, exotic, erotic lingerie. With the advent of the internet it is now possible for the shyest of shoppers to indulge their wildest fantasies by buying whatever lingerie they want whenever they want and surprise their partners!

Imagine a man coming home after a long hard day.(Okay so I know that sounds sexist but bear with me). He steps in the door and he hears soft music playing. He swings the door open and there on the table burns a candle, surrounded by flowers. A sweet, invigorating fragrance hangs in the air. And as he looks up, coming through the bedroom door is a vision of utter delight...skimpily dressed in the most exotic lingerie. She gently whispers his name and all tiredness melts away from him as he rushes toward her. She cries out as he lifts her off the floor and onto the bed. The night becomes an ocean of bliss and happiness as they lose themselves in each other and in their newfound desire for each other...

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About the author:
Llewellin RG Jegels web-publisher, poet, Scrabble and Chess player and budding author
http://www.sexy--plus-size-lingerie.com
Plus size lingerie - Go big or go home
llewellin@fusemail.com