Fall inspired XL fashion

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I love Fall for so many reasons, the colourful weather, the bountiful harvest and of course the cozy fashion!

I always tell people that Fall time is so easy to dress for. No more sweaty skin, frizzy hair or showing off unflattering body parts like my giggly arms. Finally, we get to take out our cozy sweaters that have been waiting oh-so-patiently in our closets. We reorganize our scarves, sort through our boots and get inspired by new accessories like hats and mittens.

This year I am particularly excited because hats are in and I found a gorgeous one! I never thought I’d look good in a hat, but here’s a glimpse…

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Not. Too. Shabby. I bought my hat at the “Cloakroom” on Yonge street, just south of St-Clair. They have curated such a simple yet versatile collection of hats, Sunnies, jewelry, rain coats and sweaters. It’s a must if you’re in the area.

The two outfits I’m sharing above are a few of my Fall faves!
– Ripped boyfriend jeans, green flats and an Aztec sweater perfect for a cold Sunday stroll.
– Tight black trousers, black heeled booties, white collar button-up shirt topped with a knit t-shirt is the perfect polished preppy look for a casual business meeting.

I love layering, as you can see. It helps with climate control (for someone who gets warm easily) and also helps cover our not-so-favourite spots.

So tell me, what’s your favourite must-have this season?

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Good outfit day: Trends for Spring 2014

I like my outfit today, so for the first time I am showing you a full selfie of me and the outfit that I have put together.

Nothing reminds me more of Spring, then clean whites and bright red accents! The red polish and lips have an orange base to them and almost give a tanned look. Which is why I love it!

My wardrobe typically includes a variation of navy blue, white, black, tan and grey. These are classic colours that are flattering and most importantly easy to pair. Investing in neutral coloured key items, will ensure a timeless and adaptable look. If you want to have fun with colour and pattern, buying a scarf or fun sweater is easier on the wallet.

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Secrets revealed:
– cream lace blazer: Melanie Lynn ( May 2012)
– dark skinny denim jeans: Gap outlet ( on sale April 2014… Go now!)
– black top: Joe (May 2013)
– Camel Kors flats: Town and Shoe (Dec 2012)
– white and gold tiger bracelet: Target (March 2014)
– Rose Gold Aline watch: amazon ( May 2013)
– Camel belt: Danier (December 2013)

What’s your favourite look, outfit or accessory for Spring 2014?

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The importance of looking sleek

I love dressing up and choosing the right outfit. Lots of time is spent on selecting the right clothes for the right occasion.

Sometimes we pick out an outfit and it looks great laid out on our bed. Then you try it on… Disaster!
Too many bumps and rolls in the wrong the wrong places.

Accepting your size and buying clothes that fit are paramount to looking your best. If you don’t want to accept the current size that you’re in, invest in less expensive ” transition” clothes. Consignment and thrift shopping is ideal. If you like buying quality, then invest in key pieces like a great winter coat and properly fitting jeans. We all want to be leaner, but it takes time, so let’s look great while we are losing the weight.

Important investments:
– the properly fitting and supportive bra
– shape wear (like spanx) and compression stockings work wonders for dressing up
– buy the bigger size and have it tailored to fit your properly
– as mentioned above invest in key pieces like a great coat (your winter outfit), properly fitted jeans and a flattering sweater or cardigan (for spring, fall and winter).

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You’re NOT fooling anyone if your jeans are this tight. Nothing bothers me more than chubs hanging out of your pants. Hint- wear a flowy top with tight jeans to cover the bulge.

About this image, I am not posting it to make fun. This girl is probably a smaller size than me, but my point is that no matter what your size, this look is flattering on NOBODY! Please, buy a larger size or cover the bulge with a sweater or flowy shirt.

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Don’t get in shape- know your shape!

Chantal Sarkisian Mode XLusive Plus size fashion OttawaOk, so it’s never a bad idea to get in shape, but only if it’s on your terms. Since I had my son, I have been motivated to be in shape because I want to keep up with him and be more active. Since I have been working out more, I must say that my stamina for physical activity has really increased! But this is a fashion blog, not a sports blog so here we go!

I think it’s important to recognize what shape you are if you want to dress well according to your body type. These body types come in regular sizes and XL proportions too. There are advantages and disadvantages to both shapes. It’s important to note that there are a variety of shapes that exists as well. For the sake of keeping this post informative and to the point, I have decided to narrow it down to two most common body shapes in plus size women: pear vs apple.

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The pear shape- wide hips and big butt

The pear’s advantages

  • Smaller shoulders and arms which can fool anyone in a photo and generally look smaller than the apple shape
  • Smaller shoulders mean jackets tend to fit better
  • Smaller waste gives a nicer hour glass shape, perfect for belts
  • Healthier plus size shape because fat is stored away from organs

The pear’s disadvantage:

  • Larger hips, thighs and butt can make you look shorter
  • Weight gain in lower half of the body
  • More difficult to lose weight in the lower half of the body
  • More difficult to conceal
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The apple shape (me)- big belly and small butt

The apple’s advantages

  • Usually seen in taller people giving the appearance of longer leaner legs
  • Can be concealed with flawy tops or dresses
  • Ability to wear shorts, skirts or dresses
  • Empire waistline is perfectly flattering
  • Ideal body type for weight loss

The apple’s disadvantages

  • More dangerous body type since the visceral fat is accumulated near the organs
  • Weight gain is concentrated around the waist
  • Usually accompanied by broader shoulders and bigger arms making the woman look bigger
  • The lack of hourglass figure also makes the woman look bigger and not as feminine

As you can see, I am very critical of the apple shape… hmmm, I wonder why? I think this is a very humbling exercise that will assist me in writing my XL fashion blog. The stigma of being a larger person will always remain, including the health and fitness advice. I just want to ensure that this is a “guilt-free” and “feel good about your body” zone. If I get too preachy, please feel free to leave a comment below!

Have a great night, and please share my blog with your gal pals!

xox Chantsy

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