Dear Stacey,
I love IGIGI clothing! Thank you for making such wonderful outfits. I only wish I had discovered you sooner, because I live in San Francisco, and all these summer outfits are too cold for right now. I missed a whole winter line. Cry!
I'm a Figure 8 and I tried an outfit I saw on the website with a big wide high waist belt. I thought it made my hips look like I was wearing shoe boxes! I guess I'm not used to fashion at all! I used to just wear jeans and t-shirts, I've never worn heels in my life.
So how can I tell if I'm being honest about how the outfit looks - not right with my body - or if I'm just being a bit shy about fashion, and really it looks okay if I just give it a chance?
Thanks,
Noemi
Noemi,
Hello fellow San Franciscan! A style rut is easy to fall into when you are facing the unique climate we have here in the City by the Bay. The famous quote "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco," (often attributed to Mark Twain, but there's no proof he said it) explains it well- it's as cold here in the summer as the winter. So it's no wonder you stick to jeans and t-shirts!
After years dedicated to a casual look, it's easy to wonder if anything more adventurous actually does look good. Luckily IGIGI has
been helping women with that very problem for years. Our designer Yuliya has carefully documented what looks best on each body type and gives you styling tips on how to dress for your shape on the website. It's kind of like having a best friend and a personal shopper right there with you! We always say it's always more important to dress for your body shape than by trend- this approach helps eliminate fashion faux-pas.
We also offer video now, so you can see the clothing in action, on a real plus-size woman, before you order! I think when you see our fashions on somebody else it will be easier for you to be objective about how it looks in general, not just on you.
The shape guides, styling tips and video will help you pick styles that to flatter your body. As per our advice, belts do look great on most figure 8's, so I am inclined to say that you are just being shy about trying new things. But remember that first and foremost, you need to feel comfortable and confident in your clothing. So if a trendy touch like a belt makes you a little self-conscious, don't bother! I'll give you some tips on how to take items from out Summer collection and make them both SF-friendly (read: casual, warm and no heels!) and allow you to show off your waist in ways more subtle than by belting it.
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The Colorblock Dress in Teal features an empire waist which and a wide band that will draw the eye towards the thinnest part of your body without cinching the waist so much it over-accentuates your hips. Add a denim jacket that hits either above or below the rear, opaque tights or leggings (leggings are a San Francisco girl's best friend- they keep you both cute and warm) and flats or sandals.
The Sheath Dress in Sage also skims the waist and hips gracefully and looks great with or without a belt. Then add a blazer or cardigan, tights, and a round-toe flat to this classic dress. Accessorize with a chunky necklace and earrings to add a touch of fun.
One of the most versatile pieces from our summer collection is the Wrap Dress in Black. The adjustable tie belt will accentuate your waist more softly than a stiff belt does, so your hips won't look boxy. It also has pockets and will look edgy and cool with leggings, boots and topped with a jacket that hits you at the hip.
Finally, a casual gal like you will love the Shirt Dress in Camel. I would experiment with a cute cardigan sweater or even a vest over it. Definitely pair it with some killer boots and leggings or tights, and add a splash of color by tying a bright scarf in your hair or around your neck.
I hope that these tips will give you the confidence to experiment with fashion a little more. Be sure to have fun with your clothing too! Last but not least, never forget the best accessory on- your smile.
Best,
Stacey
Go San Fransiscans! Yuliya rules
