Kimberly S. McDowell - The Gracious Hostess

View Original

The Art of Curvyscaping: Holiday Edition

Greetings All,

This is officially my first fashion post and I’m excited and nervous all at the same time! I once read that dressing well is a sign of good manners, I think of it as my “Visual Handshake". As I begin to talk about fashion as it relates to the curves of my peaks and valleys, I hope this information is useful to women of all sizes.

We’re in the midst of the Holidays so I thought it would be fitting to share with you my curvyscaping tips for navigating the season.

Body Confidence

Body confidence is a mouthful for me because even at 42, I still have to do a little pep rally to feel moderately confident. When the criticism begins to seep in through the cracks of doubt, I remind myself that people pay lots of money for the breast I’ve been blessed to have naturally, my stomach was shelter for two amazing little humans, my thunder thighs get me everywhere I need to go and there are people who would kill for legs of any kind. I just take a moment to appreciate what I do have instead of focusing on what I don’t. I’m in no way glorifying obesity because let me tell you, I’ve been working on my bikini body since birth and I don’t have it yet but I do believe beauty can be found at any size.

Buy What You Want!

Speaking of size, I’m so pumped about the flourish of plus size fashion! All those companies I used to admire from afar are now accessible and the clothes are gorgeous. There is no excuse for frumpy fashion anymore so go buy what you love! I must warn you, comfort zones will be abandoned! I personally encourage you to try different things on and get a feel for what looks good on you. You will be surprised at how much you will begin to explore other trends. I used to cringe at those festive pieces that were shoulder baring, backless or strapless. I could never imagine myself in them with the abundance of peaks and valleys I have. Well stop limiting yourself. You can. There are tons of options to satisfy your level of daring.

Does This Make You Feel Good? Pretty? Confident?

Now that you’ve taken a risk and picked something out of your comfort zone, how does it make you feel? This is extremely important because if you feel uncomfortable or self conscious of what you’re wearing it will ruin your day. If the trend is too extreme for you, find a modified version that compliments you and your taste. The goal is to bring out your best self.

The Foundation to Fabulous!

Last but not least, I could not speak of great fit without great foundation pieces. Ladies, Ladies, Ladies!! The quickest way to cheapen your look is to have the bumpy canvas of our body parts showing through the garment. Please take the time to find and wear appropriate under wear, shapewear, and bras to compliment your look.

For years my Grandma Ella would say “Plumpness, I have a nice girdle for you” I would pretend to ignore her teachings but the woman was right. Now I don’t feel complete without it. I slide by occasionally depending on the type of outfit but I have to admit, its super important. Thanks Grandma.

There you have it! Please remember, you’re beautiful and take the time to improve your Visual Handshake!

Until next time,

-K