Style and Sensibility

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Stylish Plus Size Denim Skirt

This denim skirt is made with stretch materials - which is great for girls of any size! A fantastic anchor piece, this skirt can be paired with a number of shirts and sweaters. I think this skirt could go with a bunch of different styles including preppy, alternative, funky or mod.

Plus Size Denim Skirt - $10.99

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Posh Wrap Dress with Satin Bow

This would make a perfect dress for many summer occasions such as weddings, parties, and other engagements. When the cooler weather in fall arrives, you can still wear it with a great sweater. The one below would look so cute with a 3/4 length cream sweater. It's Audrey Hepburn meets Carrie Bradshaw.

Spaghett Strap Wrap Dress with Satin Bow - $16.09

Sunday, April 8, 2007

Studded Flats - Rocker chic

I have to admit I've been eyeing these shoes for months. Attitude mixes with femininity to make a great shoe! I would love to wear these with a subtle plaid capri or goucho pants paired with a solid color shirt. Or jeans with a graphic tee.

Studded Flats - $9.99

Cute Tie Wrap Top for Ten Bucks

Why should wrap dresses have all the fun? Wrap yourself in a tie wrap top. Dress it up for work and down for the movies. Wear with skirts, trousers, jeans and shorts. The versatility of this top makes it the perfect purchase for the Style and Sensibilty girl.

Knotted Wrap Top - $10.00

also available in polka dot and striped

Thursday, April 5, 2007

4 Tips for Saving Money on Clothes

Over at Consumerism Commentary, there's a post about breaking down the purchase of clothes to cost-per-wear. The idea is that you factor in the number of times you will wear something and divide the cost of the item by that number. For example, if you buy a $15 dress and wear it 15 times, then you're paying $1 per day for the dress. I think it's a great idea, and something to keep in mind while you're shopping.

Towards the end of the article, though, they sort of hinted at the idea that you shouldn't be too frugal on clothes. I think it's hard to make blanket statements like that.

I buy clothes at major discount department stores and retailers. It's true that some of the clothes there will not get you a great cost-per-wear (CPW). Many times, however, I have had an excellent CPW. Conversely, it's worse when I buy clothing for more at a "nicer" store and it shrinks in the wash, gets a stain, or the buttons pop off (not that I'm speaking from personal experience).

So how do you balance quality versus price?

1. Do Shop at discount department stores and retailers. The quality of clothing at Target and Walmart has gotten much better in recent years. They take cues from the major designers - and Target even features low cost lines from top designers. Stores like Ross Dress for Less have great finds as well, as they get clothes from good clothing retailers.

2. Head straight for the sale rack. When you go to the mall, find the clearance and sales racks. Don't buy just because something is on sale. Make sure it's something you like.

3. Calculate the cost-per-wear. This helps cut down on impulsive and ultra trendy purchases.

4. Inspect the garment! Look at the seams. If the thread is loose, don't buy it. Tug a little at the fabric, does it lose its shape? Does it just look cheap? Even a bargain isn't worth it if the item is poorly constructed.

Take your time when you shop and reward yourself with quality clothes at a low price. What are your tips for saving money on clothing?

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Sexy Plus Size Swimsuits for Summer

Swimwear is notoriously expensive. And when you're a plus size, you might be used to paying extra for clothes. Not anymore. S&S has found swimsuits to fit your figure and your budget this summer. Check them out. You're worth it.

Two-Piece Tankini - $24.76
This is great suit for showing off your curves. It will definitely show off your bust, so if you're a little big in that area and want to downplay it - check out some of the other options. I also like how the colors break things up. It keeps the eye moving and not stuck on any areas you're not too sure about.

One Piece Sarong Swimsuit - $29.66
I love the sarong part of this suit. It offers a little security for ladies who have a hard time wearing swimsuits in public. I know - I bought something similar last year! Also, it has a nice classic Old Hollywood look. Become a sexy siren this summer!

Indulgences
These swimsuits have prices that are higher than I normally like to feature on this site. However, they look like such great suits that could flatter many figures, I just had to include them. If you spend alot of time at the pool, lake or beach - you might want to consider investing in one of these.

Stretchy Two Piece Tankini - $39.50
I love this tankini! The fabric pulls to the side, which is great for figures with fuller abs or lazy love handles. This swimsuit also comes in a gorgeous dark brown, black, and turquoise colors as well as two fun patterns. I would stick to the solid colors for a slimming effect, though.

One Piece Halter Swimsuit - $39.50
Va Va Va Voom! Look at that fantastic V-neck! It's so slimming. You will look fantastic in this. And if you're heading to lunch after a morning at the beach - throw on a skirt for instant chic!