Michele has some tips on flattering your curvy figure with these trends.
You may think you have enough jeans to last you into the next century. Think again! Some of the coolest, most chic and even most sophisticated looks right now involve denim and this season it's a black wash that rules the runways... Remember that the most flattering shape for all women with curves - no matter what size - it the boot-cut leg that flares from your knee to balance a fuller figure, or the wider leg trouser jeans or skinny/narrow leg styles (and yes, you can wear them - with the right proportions on your top half!)
Consider coordinating your summer layering tees and tank tops with the season's blazers, jackets, cardigans and tunics to extend their lifespan. Remember that a fitted silhouette in a black denim blazer or a pinstripe jacket is more flattering to all women with curves and also help define a waist as well. Whether they hang below or peek out of, you'll love the way a "layering look" that you can get out of these pieces for a few more weeks as the weather goes from hot to subtly cool.
Instead of stowing away your Bermuda shorts when the weather gets cooler, try pairing a black Ponte Bermuda short that goes to the knee with a pair of killer boots. Whether you're donning this ensemble to work or out for drinks with friends, you will turn up the heat on that chilly fall day. Remember if you want to wear 40's peep-toe oxford or pumps, do this look with opaque tights and a denim blazer, making the summer-friendly black denim item fabulous straight into fall. (Just make sure the socks or tights are fitted at the feet.)
Your metallic bags looked amazing all summer paired with many pieces in your wardrobe. Worn with all black, those same metallic bags will take a plain "black-on-black" outfit look to sophisticated and chic." Remember that handbag shapes like totes and clutches, will carry thru the coming season in shades of pewters to burnished golds.
All styles are for women size 14W and up from Avenue. For more information, visit www.Avenue.com or call 1-888-AVENUE-1. There are seven Avenue stores in the Chicago area.
LOOK #1
Pick a plum patent trench coat for a shot of drama ($89.95). Layer black flare jeans ($39.95) to balance a fuller middle; add a paisley top ($39.95) for the print of the season, and finish with ankle boots. ($34.95)
LOOK #2
Mix a black denim blazer ($49.95) with a Ponte skirt ($49.95), menswear vest ($39.95), fern-green floral top ($29.95) and silver, peep-toe pumps ($35.95).
LOOK #3
If you're curvy all over, definitely mix and match separates. Try a pencil skirt to mid calf ($34.95). Pair it with a floral chiffon short sleeve top ($39.95).
LOOK #4
If you tend to be fuller on the bottom, look for flared or bootleg jeans to balance your shape with a little stretch in Denim Lite ($39.95). Add jersey paisley print top. ($39.95)
For more information, log onto www.divinecaroline.com for more great denim ideas in Michele Weston's Learning Curves style column.
