7 Inspiring Plus-Size Outfits for Your Spring Wardrobe
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Fashion Month, a pivotal event for professionals in the industry, kicked off amidst the hustle and bustle of New York Fashion Week (NYFW), which has become synonymous with high-stakes fashion showcases reminiscent of the Super Bowl in the realm of fashion. With presentations taking place in global fashion centers such as Copenhagen and Paris, it serves as a monumental gathering for networking and style showcasing.
While straight-size colleagues often contend with an abundance of options, women like me, who wear plus sizes, face a starkly different reality. Many high-profile brands at events like NYFW offer samples primarily in sizes 10 and below, leaving those of us in larger sizes with limited choices. The scarcity of physical stores that cater to extended sizing requires meticulous planning, often compelling us to order outfits online well in advance.
The effort invested in curating stylish looks for fashion week is not just practical; it carries a profound sense of pride. Attending these shows as someone who has historically been marginalized in the fashion realm offers a rewarding experience. Here are seven standout spring looks from plus-size attendees, providing inspiration for anyone looking to elevate their wardrobe this season.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Date Night
Having attended NYFW for over a decade, I noted that the kickoff date increasingly comes earlier each season. Although Friday marked the official start of the event, I began with shows on Wednesday. For the lingerie showcase hosted by Adore Me, I embraced a boudoir theme with a lacy cutout dress layered under a sheer mesh top by New York designer Tamara Malas. To complement the warm color palette, I added an orange bag and striking red patent boots. The outcome was a striking ensemble that garnered compliments from passersby.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Work Event
For the IMG kick-off event titled “Fashioning a More Size Inclusive NYFW,” co-hosted by Elle’s beauty director Danielle James and myself, the pressure to present a standout look was palpable. With fashion industry leaders like supermodel Ashley Graham and stylist Gabriella Kareefa-Johnson in attendance, I sought to impress. Inspired by the colors of a blue tweed slingback, I created my look with a dark denim corset top and light wash trench coat from emerging plus-size designer Jordie McFarquhar.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Casual Look
On the official first day of NYFW, I opted for a more laid-back outfit to enjoy the New York Men’s Day shows. I chose a reconstructed ribbed tank from Brooklyn designer Sam Finger, pairing it with wide-leg satin cargo pants. To elevate the silhouette, I wore platform sneakers for extra height. Initially planning to layer a vibrant faux fur coat, the warm February weather necessitated a switch to a deep red faux leather trench coat.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Coquette Fashion
For a day filled with events, I drew inspiration from designer Olivia Cheng’s Dauphinette aesthetic. A baby pink patent Mary Jane heel inspired my outfit, which included a puppy-print dress from plus-size favorite Selkie. The voluminous skirt left me struggling to find an appropriate coat, but thankfully, the warm weather allowed the look to shine unencumbered.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Red All Over
Fashion week provided the perfect environment to embrace bold trends, and I decided to dive into the no-pants trend with a head-to-toe red ensemble. I showcased a boxy red satin blazer that I paired with a swimsuit for modesty and style, while a sheer red top and red-frame eyeglasses completed the look, embodying the spirit of daring fashion.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Comfortable Neutrals
My final look for NYFW centered on a fringed faux leather jacket featuring a unique design. Pairing it with a slinky jersey set from plus-owned brand Gia IRL resulted in an elegant mash-up of textures and silhouettes. The skirt’s fit was impeccable, skimming my figure rather than clinging awkwardly, and I finished the look with chic accessories that tied the neutral tones together.
Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspiration: Floral Appliqués & Jeans
On the last day of shows, I aimed for a romantic vibe, selecting a 3D rose-embellished bodysuit. Adverse weather conditions prompted me to adapt my look to include slouchy jeans and chic combat boots, offering a juxtaposition of hard and soft elements. The vintage leather jacket, a prized thrift-store find, completed my ensemble, allowing me to showcase both creativity and personal style.
