Is H&M's New Flagship Worth It?

If 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!

Framework of a Million - Shaping Your Style

For some time, the fashion-verse has been "cookie cutter," meaning there's a set style. But the reality of it is that there are so many cookie cutters. So what happens when you want to fit the mold, but don't?

My entire life, I lived in a world where people tried to dress me and make me appear 'normal.' As I got older, I learned there were different shapes and sizes, even in the modeling industry. It wasn't until I was a freshman in college when I learned of the fashion retailer Torrid's collaboration with America's Next Top Plus Size Model. This is where my framework began. I was a girl who had grown up in the south (originally from NYC), and had been surrounded by "cookie cutters" my entire life. But when I met the girls at Torrid who were in the same position as me, I began to loosen up just a bit.

Framework is the structure of which something is built. As a student, I didn't know what type of frame I was or where I fit in. My style was a mess, but after a 1-on-1 session with a Torrid stylist, I was able to clarify my frame. After posing for a few photos and having my makeup done by MAC Cosmetics, I was able to be myself. I let the clothing and makeup define my personality with flare, creating definition. But was this what I wanted? Apparently so, since I began to open my eyes up after a year of trying to make it. I've spent countless amounts of money on Torrid clothing because of how it flatters my shape, hundreds on makeup, and so much more on other things. But did this shape my style? Yes, it did.

How does one photo-shoot become framework though? Simple - you can be yourself or whoever you want to be. Over the years, I've looked back at those images and wondered how I got to where I am. I've also asked why didn't I get the position at a magazine, clothing store, or any other business I love, but I've also come to terms. My framework isn't a "cookie cutter," it's a lifestyle.

On this blog, you will find many old posts of who I was and the many facets of my personality. However, you will also find new material, paving a path for individuals all over the world, especially those of us who have no one else to turn to. Luxe Like Lola is a platform for men and women of all ages to find advice, guidance, and inspiration in the fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and entertainment industries and how it relates to you...as a person...and your growth as a human being. Let's make the Web a better place, not just for me or you, but for those who can't communicate with the rest of us.