This is Kay of Country Meet City. I like her style, so I ask her a few questions.
What’s your passion for fashion?I have loved fashion ever since I was really young. My mom was always really into fashion herself and loved dressing me up. I definitely credit a lot of my fashion sense and creativity to my mom and those early years.
What XLusive tip can you share?Have fun with fashion and try new styles/trends and go outside your comfort zone. You never know if something is going to look good on you unless you try it out. I love shopping at Winners, Zara, Gap, Old Navy and The Bay. Some local (Ottawa) shops I love to hit are Milk Shop, HepKat Vintage and Roadtrip. When I’m getting dressed I try to dress for my body shape (hourglass). When picking clothes I try to accent my assets. For dresses I like the fit and flare look or wrap dresses. A defined waistline goes a long way!
In this pic Kay wears: – Blazer (Forever 21)
– Peplum Top (Simons)
– Trousers (Smart Set)
– Heels (Old Navy)
– Bow (ALDO Accessories)
Here is me pulling this look off with a custom size Rachel Sin Dolce Rose Skirt. I discovered Rachel Sin at the 2015 Velo Vogue fashion show hosted by XO Velo and had to have this skirt! I paired it with a stripe H&M top and black suede BCBG pumps to complete my look.
Getting lots of compliments at work today. What do you think of pairing two bold patterns? I say… “DO IT!”
A few months ago, I worked like a crazy person to get ready for my first official article on summer styling tips for plus-size women. Be Healthy Be Beautiful is a free local quarterly magazine in Ottawa that covers beauty and fashion in the area. Because space was limited, my article was cut back a bit. So, here is the complete version.
There is no real secret to being a plus-size fashionista. Often times, the same rules apply. Most women love their summer clothes, but the reality for plus-size women is that summer can bring on major fashion challenges. The constant sticky and sweaty mess is one thing, but not being able to hide behind clothes is another. Common struggles include showing more skin and the fear of baring legs and arms. Feeling comfortable in your skin is part of any fashionista’s journey to self-acceptance. It’s all about finding tricks that work for you. If you are looking for inspiration, these 10 plus-size fashion tips should help guide you in creating flawless style this summer.
Know your body type. Don’t focus on size. Women come in all shapes, length and weight, from plus-size to petite.
Invest in classic, quality and versatile pieces. A good pair of jeans or a well fitted blazer will go a long way.
Get your clothes tailored. When clothes fit well, they look more expensive and make you feel amazing.
Don’t splurge on trends. Stay stylish with brands that offer temporary and trendy at a bargain price.
Accessorize to the max with quality jewelry, shoes and hand bags.
Find inspiration online and in magazines and keep track of your favourite outfits.
Stick to natural materials, like cotton and linen, to help keep you dry and breezy.
Put some effort in your hair and makeup. It’s amazing how it can boost your confidence.
Clean out your closet seasonally and rediscover some old favourites.
Supportive undergarments are key to looking sleek and supported.
The most important thing women should remember is to know your body shape, know what flatters you most, have your own style, exude confidence at all times and most importantly…have fun playing in your closet!
Camouflage tips
Women who chose not to show their legs in the summer should opt to wear lose trousers made of thin cotton or linen. Maxi skirts and dresses are also a great way to stay breezy and covered.
For women who want to cover their arms, a light cotton cape or lose cardigan does the trick.
Old Navy- Head to toe!Addition Elle (excluding shoes and purse)H&M head to toe! (excluding shoes)Desigual head to toe!Gap head to toe!
I had the privilege of being on the Style Squad for RBC Bluesfest and capturing some of my favourite looks. Although only the first image (see below) was the only published photo on the RBC Bluesfest Instagram page and Ottawa Citizen I decide to share all my pics with you! Here is who I spotted!