Big Words- Plus-Size, Curvy, Full, Voluptuous and Ample

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but names can never hurt me” … the fat girl credo.

Words are just words. But yes, they can hurt. Trust me, I can talk about this, because I was always “big-boned” as a kid. You know, I had a lot of “baby fat”. It seems I was always reminded of this particularly when it was time to try on dresses for my Armenian folk dance group. It didn’t matter if I was taller than all the kids (no, this was a good thing!) as soon as that dress wouldn’t fit my arms or zip up my back… I was labelled as a fat kid. And trust me, I could see the look of disappointment on the teachers’ faces, because I was a “good dancer”. At an early age, I learned the best way to deal with being made fun of, is to develop a witty sense of humour and attack yourself before anyone else has the chance. When others do the same, don’t think they have low self esteem… it’s a defense mechanism to actually make you feel good about yourself. I know this sounds backwards, but just trust me on this one. After the summer of grade 8, the good lord blessed me with more growth spurts and sporty skills which helped me shed some of that “baby fat” everyone hated about me. But still today, I struggle with weight.

But I digress. The real reason I am writing this post is to address some talk about labels. Words that are supposed to help women shop for clothing that fit them. The fashion industry has chosen to segregate “regular” people” from “larger” ones by stopping at size Large. That’s when the official “Plus-Size or 14+” market was born! It’s still however, a touchy subject. After having conversations with other women, some more “plus-size” than others (yes, there is a prejudice for people of my size that are not deemed fat enough to represent larger women) I realize that we cannot change the words. We must focus on behaviours.

synonym-for-large
The word large has a more negative connotation.

I started this blog to help inspire women of any size to look good and feel good about their image. Maybe you hate your legs, maybe you want to show off your tiny waist, but at the end of the day, all women have their insecurities and assets. I want to help women get over their insecurities, by sharing what I do with mine, and teach them to flaunt what they love about themselves. When you are truly happy with your image, these words won’t mean much to you.

Even though I am not about the words, I was challenged to find a better word to replace “plus-size”, so my word is “Voluptuous”. Now it’s your turn! Share your word in the comments below.

synonym-for-voluptuous
I like how the word voluptuous is filled with positive vibes!
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Stripes & Florals

A few weeks ago, Erica Wark shared a post on 7 Surprising Ways to Build a Better Outfit using a Wild Card clothing item. I was particularly fond of the floral print and striped shirt combination.

Floral print and striped shirt mode XLusive Canada PLus Size Fashion Blog Ottawa Toronto Montreal Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian

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.

Floral print and striped shirt mode XLusive Canada PLus Size Fashion Blog Ottawa Toronto Montreal Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian
Floral print and striped shirt mode XLusive Canada PLus Size Fashion Blog Ottawa Toronto Montreal Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian Getting lots of compliments at work today. What do you think of pairing two bold patterns? I say… “DO IT!”

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Plus-Size Summer Style Guide in BHBB Magazine

I am so excited to finally share this with you!

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.
bhbb-summer-2015-cover BHBB Summer 2015 Plus Size fashion Style Guide Ottawa Chantal Sarkisian Mode XLusive ChantsyBecause 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.

  1. Know your body type. Don’t focus on size. Women come in all shapes, length and weight, from plus-size to petite.
  2. Invest in classic, quality and versatile pieces. A good pair of jeans or a well fitted blazer will go a long way.
  3. Get your clothes tailored. When clothes fit well, they look more expensive and make you feel amazing.
  4. Don’t splurge on trends. Stay stylish with brands that offer temporary and trendy at a bargain price.
  5. Accessorize to the max with quality jewelry, shoes and hand bags.
  6. Find inspiration online and in magazines and keep track of your favourite outfits.
  7. Stick to natural materials, like cotton and linen, to help keep you dry and breezy.
  8. Put some effort in your hair and makeup. It’s amazing how it can boost your confidence.
  9. Clean out your closet seasonally and rediscover some old favourites.
  10. 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 Plus Size Fashion Ottawa Fashion blog mode XLusive Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian
Old Navy- Head to toe!
Addition Elle Plus Size Fashion Ottawa Fashion blog mode XLusive Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian
Addition Elle (excluding shoes and purse)
H&M Bayshore Plus Size Fashion Ottawa Fashion blog mode XLusive Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian
H&M head to toe! (excluding shoes)
Desigual Bayshore Plus Size Fashion Ottawa Fashion blog mode XLusive Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian
Desigual head to toe!
GAP Bayshore Plus Size Fashion Ottawa Fashion blog mode XLusive Chantsy Chantal Sarkisian
Gap head to toe!

A big thank you to Bayshore Shopping Centre for providing all the fashion and to Karie Hession of Yow City Style who took the photos.

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