I’ve never been into watches, but that’s because I have my iPhone on me at all times. I can remember a time when my grandfather would tell me that a watch is essential and tells a lot about your personality. I hadn’t thought about this much, but the moment I opened my cold weather couture watch from JORD Wood Watches changed everything.
Read MoreI can safely say that my defense in shopping this week is because of Fashion Week. Granted, it’s probably not the best excuse, but it’s one of them. So to kick off Fashion Week (no pun intended), let's take a peek at my newest additions!
Read MoreIf you’re an H&M lover, you probably heard about the new flagship that opened on 34th Street/Herald Square in Manhattan. All kidding aside, I was actually excited because I thought they would carry more sizes and more variety. Unfortunately, I was wrong.
There are certain stores I find trendy clothing that fit me well. Being that I’m a size 14 to 16 (depending on the cut, I can squeeze a 12), I thought I’d have a fighting chance in the world that deems a ‘12’ to be “plus sized.” After venturing into the new H&M flagship, I sifted through the racks to grab a few summer pieces. Within ten minutes, I realized they only went up to a size 10, with SOME 12s (go figure). I grabbed a sales associate and was told that sizes 14 and up were considered “plus” and were found at the other location. Stunned, I left the accessories I picked up and went on my way to the other location (which I had just been in the day prior).
By the grace of the fashion gods, I found a few 14s hiding (there must have been a new shipment). Because I was on my lunch break, I ran to the register and went about my day. Well, let me tell you about a little conversation me and the cashier had.
Cashier: “Did you find everything okay?”
Me: “Yes, but do you know if you’ll be carrying any more 14s?”
Cashier: “They come every day, but it’s a game of chance. Have you been to the new flagship?”
Me: “You mean the flagship that goes up to a Large and a 12 that has nothing in stock? If you ask me, I don’t know how that’s a flagship and they don’t even carry a ‘plus-size’ department.”
Cashier: “They have sizes in the back. No one offered to help? I thought they carried what we carry.”
Me: “Nope!”
Well, H&M didn’t plan accordingly, nor cared to offer a variety of sizes (the new store doesn’t carry maternity clothing either). It’s only a matter of time until management or store operations realize this fault, so we shall see. In the meantime, I’m going to see what 14s and 16s I can find. ¡chao!
Have you ever gone shopping and asked the sales associate for help? Have you ever gotten that look of "Why are you trying that on?" About two weeks ago, I ventured into Bryant Park and met a couple of women at Animated Closet NYC, who, I must say, made me feel fashionable and a real woman.
Being that I have a fuller figure, it's not common that I stay away from large prints and bold statement pieces. Kathleen, the boutique associate, along with her co-worker, made it very comfortable, inviting me in the moment I stopped to just look at the mannequin. I explained to her my situation, you know, not being able to find high-fashion in my size or that even looked amazing. From there, Kathleen began to tell me about each piece, how they're constructed, and how me, at 185lbs (no shame), could wear an XL piece of art that would fit someone who was maybe 200+lbs. This is due to color blocking, shading, quality materials, and design of a woman's body. However, this means you better have saved some of your paycheck to buy a beautiful sweater-dress that has the Brooklyn Bridge incorporated on it.
Yes, I enjoy fashionable piece,s, but at $500+, I might rethink my closet. But what I will say is that Kathleen and her co-worker took their time helping me find something that not only was flattering, but that I actually fell in love with. Animated Closet certainly has a vibe to it, one that you must prepare for. The stories of women walking in to purchase their dresses, shaping their bodies post-pregnancy or to simply enhance features. It's quite remarkable to see that a boutique can have so much positive influence over women who don't have the same fashion opportunities as others.
My time with Kathleen was very well spent. I think I was in the boutique for a good 30 minutes, trying on five different pieces, learning about each one and the story behind the art. Oh, and to top it all off, Kathleen wasn't so skinny-mini either, making me feel welcomed and that I had someone who has been in my shoes before. It's nice being able to walk into a store or boutique and find something trendy, flattering, and perfect for your shape.
If you have some time, visit Animated Closet NYC. When you stop by, make sure you mention Tamara, who stopped by in October with the fashion blog!