Fashion Steal of the Week: Sunglasses

There are only a couple of months left until summer hits; it’s never too early to be prepared!

Protect your eyes from the harsh rays with these slick AE Palmer Sunglasses. Not only do they look sleek and stylish, they also offer 100% UV protection, as well as gradient lenses, a nose guard and metal wide-lens frames.

If you’re the kind of guy who loses sunglasses on a regular basis, why spend an arm and a leg on an expensive pair? Instead, grab these bad boys – at less than $20, it’s an investment that’ll keep you made in the shade this summer.

Available at American Eagle Outfitters or via their website. Check out their other reasonably priced sunglasses while you’re there if these don’t strike your fancy.

Trendy Plus Size Clothing

All women, regardless of their size, deserve to look and feel their best – in clothing that actually works for them! Unfortunately, what may look fashionable on a size six doesn’t necessarily transfer easily to plus size women; hence the difficulty in finding plus size clothing that’s actually stylish!

Fortunately, the following stores all cater to the plus size market, selling clothing and accessories that are affordable, stylish and work well on larger frames.

Torrid, the plus-size offshoot of popular retailer Hot Topic, specializes in clothing for the edgy, trendy plus-size female. They have a large selection of office wear, casual clothing, and dresses specifically for the plus size woman who loves to look good. Check out this tri-color halter dress; the perfect complement to spring!

For dresses, jeans, skirts and outerwear, check out IGIGI . Their extensive collection of plus size clothing offers a lot to choose from; they also have a sale section, where you can nab great deals on trendy plus size clothing. They’re a bit on the expensive side, but if you feel like splurging, I’d go for one of their expensive blouses.

Avenue offers fashionable plus size clothing in sizes ranging from a 14 to a 32, and carry a wide variety of activewear, skirts, suits, pants, swimwear and more. Check out this denim jacket, which will keep you warm on a cool spring or summer night.

While not an all-inclusive list of retailers that carry trendy plus size clothing, these are some of the more popular stores that seem to get the idea that plus-size women want fashionable clothing, too! Bookmark them, and come back when you’re in the mood for a little wardrobe makeover!

How Clothing Can Make You Look Thinner

Believe it or not, you can look five; even ten pounds thinner instantly – simply by throwing on some clothes! Sound to good to be true? Well, believe it sister – true fashionistas know that clothing plays an important role in the illusion of a sleek silhouette.

It’s common knowledge that the color black tends to flatter everyone. Not only will black make you appear leaner; it also works for nearly any occasion. Wear a “little black dress” to a cocktail party or formal event, or throw on a slimming black top with a pair of denim jeans for a look that’s totally wearable.

If black isn’t your thing, you could always opt for alternative darks, such as deep purple, navy blue or chocolate brown. These colors will also flatter nearly any skin tone and create the illusion of a sleeker look.

For the print-challenged, remember that prints can create a great look, provided you’re not trying to be matchy-matchy. For example, don’t wear your polka dot blouse with polka dot pants – that’s too much! Instead, opt for pairing that top with a skirt that complements the colors in the top; you’ll look thinner instantly (and you won’t look like a giant clown!)

For fuller-figured women, embrace your curves – but don’t draw attention to anything you perceive as a flaw. For example, if you want to cover up large hips, avoid wearing light colors or prints on your bottom half; also remember that horizontal stripes are a definite no if you’re going for a thinner look.

Of course, clothing can only do so much – your jewelry, shoes and even your handbag can also help create the appearance of a slimmer body. For example, choose accessories that won’t call attention to any parts of your figure you’d rather not draw attention to. For starters, you can wear a large pendant to draw the eye upwards, away from a bigger bust. If you’d like to call attention away from your waist, stomach or hips, wear a medium-sized belt – not a dainty one!

These are just a few tips and tricks that can help you look instantly thinner, simply by wearing a few key clothing pieces. While you won’t actually lose 10 pounds, you can at least LOOK like you have!