Trend is a plus for the curvy

THE days when women with a fuller figure had to make do with unfashionable plus-sized clothing are long gone.

Boutiques specialising in big sizes are springing up all over the northern suburbs and many chain stores offer ranges designed specifically for the curvier form.

Manager of Autograph at Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City, Jackie Thatcher, said specialist outlets now stocked plus-sized clothing that followed conventional fashion trends, but cut to flatter curves.

“Because the styles we stock are mainstream but in a more generous and realistic cut, women do not feel like they have to dress differently just because they are big,” she said.

“At Autograph, things are cut properly for the size and we choose flattering styles – for example we don’t have low rise jeans. A lot of people hate shopping because of their size, but with shops like ours, they get to know that they can have a bit of fun with clothes.”

According to Jackie, plus-sized fashion retailers now cater for a broader age range, with trendy styles adapted for the larger form.

“Some bigger women can feel a bit self conscious about their arms and shoulders, so we stock styles that are the same as other high-street stores but with added details that give a bit of extra coverage.

A lot of our dresses come with contrasting shrugs,” she said.

Styles that will be in for the coming autumn/winter season include trench coats and cargo pants.

The trend for ‘layers’ will continue, and accessories such as multi-strand necklaces and scarves will be an important part of this look. Jackie predicts colours will steer away from the bright oranges and reds of summer.

“We are beginning to see the start of autumn colours including plum, stone, mushroom pink and khaki. The new colours are a lot more muted,” she said.

“Even with the beads, we are seeing shades of pearl, pink and cream.”

Colours such as Prussian blue and tomato also feature in Autograph’s latest collection.

What everyone else is thinking

Lee Manfred

04/02/2010

Hi - its fantastic that curvaceous chicks can now get contemporary fashion items at value for money prices. I popped into Autograph last week and notice the clothing is looking SO GOOD. It seemed to me that it was following the key trends yet remained very wearable - and it was a little sexier!

the prices amaze me - excellent value for money

and, I feel good in the product!