Accessorizing for the Plus Size Woman

Okay, we are all aware of the perception that plus size women should wear BIG accessories to draw attention away from our big bosom or derriere. Thankfully, I’m here to tell you that this is absolutely not true (and more than a little ridiculous). Our nation is changing, and the last frontier of prejudice – being overweight – is finally beginning to fade. Perfectly normal sized women like Jessica Simpson are beginning to say ENOUGH and draw a line in the sand – saying that they are unwilling to be judged by their size. Little did Jessica Simpson realize that she would inspire a huge dialogue around weight, size, and just what constitutes beauty in this country.

So what does this have to do with accessories? Oh, nothing – and everything. My point is that we absolutely do NOT have to wear a huge scarf or carry a big saddle bag to hide behind. We are just FINE with our size. (Here’s a secret: make that last statement true for YOU, and the rest of the world will follow suit. And hey, if they don’t, well then that’s their problem.)

Being okay with your body allows you to make entirely new choices around wardrobes, fashion, and the ever changing accessories that complement it all. For instance, if you have a great vest to wear, there’s nothing wrong with wearing it buttoned up with only a plus size camisole underneath and a terrific long strand of pearls either loose or knotted at your neck. OR wear the same vest open over a plus size blouse with a great sequined pin on the lapel. Worried about tucking your blouses in? Add a wide casual dropped belt to the ensemble and toss that fear aside forever! OR wear the belt over the same plus size top bloused over a pair of jeans. Or get really creative and add a cowboy hat and a pair of boots – great with that same vest or a pair of plus size split pants, by the way!

And hey, never underestimate the power of a new pair of shoes and a fabulous handbag to makeover an ensemble or bring it into the next season (can you say espadrilles?). The bottom line is that great accessories can be used to literally multiply your wardrobe. Just two or three belts, a few stylish handbags, and a vest can turn four outfits into a load of different combinations!

For the plus size woman, accessorizing is NOT about hiding. In fact, it’s really the opposite. It’s about standing out a little in the crowd and adding that special piece of pizzazz to everything we wear. For me, it says that I took the time to look absolutely fabulous in whatever I’m wearing and celebrate my individuality! What’s in my collection? On any given day, I might wear the following: A four-inch brass pin of a carousel horse, an antique silk scarf that my grandmother used to hide her hair under when it was set in curlers, a royal blue suede fringed belt, black suede thigh-high boots (a personal fave), a red beret, a burgundy leather backpack purse, and a red leather vest with the words “Sexy Girl” written on the back in metal studs.

Okay, now here’s something worth noting. I have had ALL of those items in my wardrobe for at least ten years. So did they get used to death? Not even close. I didn’t start featuring these great pieces until about a year ago, when I woke up one day and got tired of worrying about my weight, wishing I were thin, and basically putting my BEAUTY on hold until tomorrow. Like Jessica Simpson, I finally drew a line in the sand and said enough! I am here this moment, and my beauty is not up for debate.

And ever since, every single day when I get dressed, I stop for a few moments and think about that one extra piece that will make my outfit pop off the page and say, “Look at me, world – I’m fabulous!”

About the Author

Stacy Montgomery, Sales VP for Sealed with a Kiss Designs (SWAK Designs,
Plus Size clothing
) has built her career around her passion, embracing her own unique beauty and plus-sized body. Sealed with a Kiss Designs
http://www.SWAKdesigns.com
is a leading manufacturer of affordable and trendy
plus size fashions

Rare Editions LITTLE GIRLS 4-6X 2-Piece BLACK WHITE STRIPED TIERED SKIRT SEQUIN BOW FAUX FUR VEST Special Occasion Girl Party Dress/Vest Set Beautiful BLACK & WHITE SEQUIN FAUX FUR DRESS & VEST SET features BLACK/WHITE STRIPED KNIT DRESS adorned with SPARKLING SEQUIN BOW-SHAPE EMBELLISHMENTS and ELASTICIZED RUCHED DETAILS at the LONG SLEEVES plus TRIPLE TIERED SKIRT. BLACK FAUX FUR VEST features SPARKLING SEQUIN EMBELLISHMENTS. Hand wash, line dry. Imported (Philippines). Dress of cotton/polyester/spandex – Vest of polyester – Lining o…

Quilted Comfort Reversible Quilted Vest $89.95 “For warmth with a fashionable appeal. Versatile, fully reversible plus size mock-neck vest offers two looks in one! Herringbone quilting on the colorful smooth poly outer is tipped with black binding. Inside is warm and cozy PerfecTemp fleece in versatile black.”

AnyWeather SoftShell Vest $49.95 “When the weather is “in-betweenâ€? this vest shines. Light and warm, layer it over sweaters or long sleeve tees and you’ll be toasty. Cute over leggings or jeans, equestriennes and dog lovers will especially love it as fur and hair slide right off! Mock neck style has a two-way center front zipper, and in-seam invisible zipper pockets. Flattering angular seaming with reflective Junonia Spirit logos at center back for nighttime walking. ”

Reversible PerfecTemp Fleece Double Warm Vest $49.95 “Campers, bikers, bird watchers, early morning walkers! Don’t miss out on this fabulous deal! Two full layers of top-quality, beautiful- feeling PerfectTemp plus size fleece. And if you get this hard-working womanly vest dirty—it just reverses to another cute look! Zip pockets on BOTH sides (we think of everything!) Bonfires on the beach, Bananagrams in the tent, running errands, and cheering on your team! And on that long car-ride home, you can loan it to the kids for a back seat pillow! You’ll love the colors and prints. Have fun reversing to reflect your mood. This carefully constructed plus size vest has top-stitched detailing throughout, two-way zipper at the front, and is beautifully trimmed in black all around. Zippered hand pockets have a smooth non-bulky tricot lining. Embroidered with Junonia Spirit logo at top of hood. ”

Juno French Knit Zip Tunic Vest $34.98 “Over leggings or jeans, from yoga to typing out your novel, try a vest and join the enthusiastic vest-lovers who suggested this item. Soft and stretchy mid-weight knit, this vest combines function with fashion. Curved seams flatter, and fresh snap pockets carry your cell and more. Elegantly constructed with hidden zipper pockets, two-way front metal zipper and subtly embroidered Junonia logo at the center back. ”

QuikJersey Zip Tank $29.95 “Ready for action, this versatile tank goes from workouts inside to running a trail. Layer this stretchy vest for extra warmth—it’s napped inside and cozy! But go ahead and work up a sweat in QuikJersey it will push the moisture away keeping you dry and comfy. You’ll find many ways to enjoy this fast-drying innovatively designed plus size tank. It has a built-in power mesh shelf bra for extra support. Wear it alone for soft control, or over another sport bra. Center front zipper for easy on and off, with smooth binding at neck and armhole for chafe-free movement.”

Sequin Flapper Plus Size Costume $59.5 It don’t mean a thing if you ain’t got that swing! Channel your inner show stopper dressed for getting down this Halloween in our stylish new Sequin Flapper Plus Size Costume. This must have costume set features a sleeveless mini dress with plunging neckline, fully sequined bodice with contrast centerline inlay and attached flowy style ruffle skirted bottom trimmed in flirty flapper fringe. Matching stretch sequin headband with feather accent and fake cigarette holder also included. Costume set includes: • Dress • Headband • Cigarette holder Durably made from high quality sequin poly spandex knit. Includes sealed plastic bag for easy storage. Dry clean only.

Black Plus Size Layered Velvet Long Vest $79.95 This pretty little vest is made with velvet it is double skirted and has two hidden pockets one on each side working fancy black buttons for easy closure fully lined. Standard size approx. length: 40 inches; Plus size approx. length: 43 inches.

Burgundy Plus Size Layered Velvet Long Vest $79.95 This pretty little vest is made with velvet it is double skirted and has two hidden pockets one on each side working fancy black buttons for easy closure fully lined. Standard size approx. length: 40 inches; Plus size approx. length: 43 inches.

QuikCool Double-Scoop Bra Top $29.95 “Looking for a plus size bra top that is soft, light and supremely comfortable? QuikCool plus size bra tops are the answer. This dual layer, fully-lined plus size bra, offers light support while the wicking fabric is smooth and sumptuous. It surrounds the body to push moisture away from the skin to keep you dry and comfortable. Wear this plus size style during yoga, under a casual tee, or even sleeping. Cut for a plus size woman, this sporty top can be worn for low-impact activities or casual wear. Tee shirts slide over the smooth fabric. You’ll love the careful Junonia cut. It is longer at the sides for full and flattering fit, and slighter higher front and back for support. The armholes are not too tight, yet have excellent coverage and the wider straps support and can cover a plus size bra for extra support. Antimicrobial and fast-drying, QuikCool dries quickly, and is perfect for travel. ”

UV-Protective Stretch Nylon Half-Zip Pullover $19.95 “We designed this versatile plus size pullover to protect you from the sun. It does that beautifully with UPF 50 and the highest possible UV rating. But then we noticed how versatile it is! We cut this plus size jacket long with princess seams to give you a flattering plus size jacket over plus size leggings and even a plus size bathing suit swimsuit on the beach. The arms are cut full for air flow, and roll up with tabs, and it has side slits for easy moving. This womanly plus size jacket also serves as a wind breaker jacket and is a perfect travel companion, ready for any activity, or those casual walks on the beach. Front slit pockets, quarter zip neckline ”

Juno Stretch Naturals Leggings $36.95 “Luxurious cotton with spandex for ultimate stretch and comfort. Created with Junonia’s plus size fit and long-lasting quality. Covered elastic no-chafe waist.”

Juno Stretch Naturals Capris $36.95 “Luxurious cotton with spandex for ultimate stretch, and comfort. Created with Junonia’s plus size fit and long-lasting quality. Covered elastic no-chafe waist.”

Super Jersey Long Sleeve Crewneck Tee $19.98 “This long sleeve classic tee features size vents and a slight A-line shape for full coverage and easy movement. Made of a heavier weight cotton that never clings and shaped just for the plus size woman.”

Seashell Classic Pique Polo $29.99 “Don’t miss out on this fabulous deal! Nothing beats the crisp appeal of the classic plus size polo. It never goes out of style. Junonia’s womanly cut is also a winner. We’ve kept the plus size shape in mind with a great fit. Active or casual, the longer length means you can wear this shirt over plus size jeans or plus size leggings. Long side slits and a perfectly cut armhole mean you can play, run and laugh with the kids. Best of all is the gorgeous all-cotton pique fabric. It is a medium weight for a smooth no-cling appearance and feels great year around. Durable and breathable 100% Cotton, this shirt washes like a dream. Subtly embroidered with a Junonia seashell at the hem, your guarantee of exceptional fit and quality. If you are between sizes or prefer an oversized tunic fit, we recommend ordering a size up. ”

Packable Apple Fit Sport Pant $19.99 “These are a steal! If you love our black cotton plus size stretch pants, (and who doesn’t?) you’ll love having a pair of our best selling plus size pants in this warm and versatile cocoa brown color. Match up these woman-friendly plus size pants with your plus size tops in light blue, mango, and even black! The fabric is smooth with just the right amount of stretch for ease. Toss these in and out of the wash; they just bounce back into shape, keeping you looking your best. They not only look good, but these are incredibly comfortable. We cut these plus size pants full just for the plus size shape with a soft covered elastic waist. The legs and seat on this pant are cut for a slim appeal. Wear these for casual, for walking, and even to active pursuits like yoga class. Cling-free cotton/spandex is durable and just so comfortable. These even have side seam pockets for all our pocket-loving customers! Buy two or you’ll regret it! ”

V-Neck Tank Top $19.95 “A versatile and flattering, sleeveless plus size top. In soft lightweight non-cling summer cotton, this knit pullover is just the elegant detail you’ve been looking for. Worn under a jacket for those office meetings, it also looks great over a pair of plus size jeans. This is not really an active top, but would make the perfect travel companion, sauntering over cobblestones and shopping the markets. Add jewelry and scarves for fun. You’ll love the flattering neckline that takes this well above a simple plus size tank. The womanly cut of the armholes is perfect and the length just right. At this price you’ll want one in each color!”

Super Jersey Long Sleeve V-Neck Tee $19.98 “No-cling cotton skims the body for a flattering silhouette. Comfortable and long-lasting top-quality cotton. Wash after wash, from play to casual this plus size v-neck will become a favorite. ”

Junowear All-Cotton Classic Brief $12.95 “Our best-selling brief ever! This generous full-cut plus size classic features a comfortable knit elastic waistband and non-chafe stretch edging at the leg. Natural waistline fit with a conservative leg. ”

Juno Stretch Naturals Bike Short $24.95 “Luxurious cotton with spandex for ultimate stretch and comfort. Created with Junonia’s plus size fit and long-lasting quality with longer inseams. Covered elastic no-chafe waist.”

Seashell Crossback Suit with Binding $49.95 “The most flattering plus size athletic tank you’ll ever wear. You’ll love the freedom of the X-back style for swimming. The front inset avoids water scooping when you are powering through the water. The side bust coverage is plus size perfect and the leg conservative but comfy. The back is a little higher for support and coverage, and the wide piped straps are striking. Inside our unique swim bra design, utilizes a special power mesh swim aqua bra system that combines under bust support with around-the-body sport bra construction for a natural but defined bust line. You’ll be amazed at how secure you feel in this plus size suit! We’ve made this plus size swimsuit from our best Nylon/high-spandex fabric with extra chlorine resistance. The thicker fabric offers elegant support and control. Wear for aqua activities, or simply look great lounging on a beach.”

UV-Protective Stretch Nylon Zip Jacket $19.95 “Protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun in this sporty plus size jacket. The fabric is rated at UPF 50 and has the highest possible UV rating. But you’ll be grabbing this versatile plus size jacket on even cloudy days, as a perfect top layer for chilly mornings or cool weather strolls. Pretty details include a stylish mock neck and contrast stitching, a Junonia logo on the two-way zipper pull and elegant shirring at the chest and cuffs. Back vented design allows for easy shoulder movement, while cord locks at the hem let you adjust for warmth and comfort. Cut a little longer to work for all your needs from casual walks to topping a plus size bathing suit swimsuit at the beach. Front slit pockets. This is a perfect plus size travel jacket! ”

QuikCool Full-Coverage Brief $19.95 “We dare you to find a more comfortable and sumptuous brief. We have cut this beautiful style for a woman, with full coverage yet with a sleek and slightly sexy appeal. But the secret to this popular style is the fabric. QuikCool is silky soft and stretchy, with the wicking power that makes all the difference. These wicking plus size panties push moisture away from your body keeping you dry and comfortable in all temperatures. Say goodbye to clammy plus size underwear. Junonia has carefully fit these for the plus size shape, and added a double inner gusset and soft, no-chafe bound edges at both the leg and waist. Enjoy the light stretchy support for active and all-day casual wear. Versatile and fast-drying, these briefs are perfect for sport, active and everyday casual wear. Antimicrobial and fast-drying, QuikCool is just the ticket for travel. ”

PerfecTemp Quarter Zip Fleece Pullover $34.98 “Better than a sweatshirt or a sweater! This cozy, top-quality fleece pullover features a quarter-zip mock neck. Generously cut for layering, this plus size desgin features long straight-hem sleeves, feminine princess seaming, sporty top-stitching. Junonia Spirit logo embroidery at center back collar. ”

PerfecTemp Fleece Hoodie $44.98 “Get ready for fun! This classic hoodie has a sporty flair, with two-way front zipper and drawstring at hood. Femininely shaped plus size design with princess seams, and top-stitch throughout, it has front welt pockets. Beautiful top-quality cozy fleece. Junonia Spirit logo embroidery at top of hood.”