Marie Denee has long been an inspiration in the blogosphere as the plus-sized fashionista behind the Curvy Fashionista. With the launch of her new e-shop, Marie Denee, she can now add “plus-sized retailer” to her list of accomplishments and ways that she’s making strides in the fashion world.
While the inventory is a bit sparse, a quick look at the designers list shows great things to come [including one of my favorites, Sandmaiden]. I love that she DOES have a list of designers– if you’re like me and less a “plus-sized fashion blogger” and more a “fashion blogger who is plus-sized,” then you may freeze up when trying to find plus-sized clothing lines that aren’t matronly or hippie-wear, are bold, sharp and chic. I’m pretty sure my shopping consists of Etsy, Torrid, Old Navy, and occasionally department stores.
I got really lusty after this polka dot blouse when I saw it, along with this tie neck zipper dress. If you haven’t noticed, I’m CRAZY about polka dots (to the point the fella mocks me), so this shirt was right up my alley: pink, polka dots, ruffles–what else could I want? The dress was a beauty I couldn’t ignore; I especially love the way the shimmering delicate silk contrasts against the dark, bold zipper.
I always kind of balk a bit at the cost of clothing, especially plus-sized clothing– it’s hard to find them at F21 prices (not that you SHOULD). I love this interview that Young, Fat, Fabulous had with plus-sized designer, Monif C.
I especially loved Monif’s honest response to talking about cost, because it reminds me of conversations I’ve had with other designers:
People think “oh, fabric is $10/yard, how much can a dress really cost?”, but they don’t understand that patterns, samples, marking, grading, photo shoots, websites, staff, promotion, and producing clothes in the USA opposed to in Asia like most large companies do costs a lot of money…. Let’s just say a beginning clothing line can blow through $200,000 (on the low end) easily within one year….. It’s things like that, but I understand the consumer’s perspective, and I always say, do your best to support independent designers. Even if you can’t purchase at full price, buy it at the sale price because those sales allow us to keep doing what we are doing.
Remember people–these guys (or gals!) are just trying to make a living, just like you and me. Their goals are never (or rarely) to rip you off– they just want to make sure they’re paying for their costs, doing right by the universe, and providing goods.
Mostly, it’s wonderful to see another brilliant and bright woman taking charge of her dreams and ambitions. Congrats, Marie!
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
great post!
(I’m hoping this comment doesn’t come off the wrong way)
While, I personally don’t struggle with finding plus size clothing, my best friend does. She’s extremely stylish and is constantly at a struggle with finding clothing to wear. She’s a makeup artist, so she enjoys not only dressing up her face and hair, but also her body. She’s mentioned that she gets tired of people telling her how great her face looks, and wants people to notice her clothing as well. She is constantly going out on dates and to parties, and sometimes finds herself wearing the same thing.
Sometimes, her only options are shopping at places like Lane Bryant, which like you mentioned tend to be very matronly. I remember when the “Plus Size” F21 stuff was announced and I was so excited to tell her about it. Unfortunately, it was very disappointing to see the sizes, or rather lack of, they were offering.
She’s not very into the whole blogosphere life, so I always forward her posts that I think she’ll enjoy.
I know she’ll really enjoy finding out about Marie Denee, as well as feel inspired.
xox
Betsey J´s last blog ..Daily Outfit: 10.12 A Case of the Mondays
That teal dress is a head-turner!
Mary P.´s last blog ..Tuesday Tweet Deal
Wonderful to see some great plus sized fashions that are actually plus sized- I’m so sick of hearing about plus sized models that are a size 8 and weigh 150 lbs. Like the ones in this video that are apparently plus size models at fashion week: http://www.newsy.com/videos/fashion_s_new_line_up
Excellent post! Love the quote about what it takes to produce a clothing line. The average consumer has no idea how the production end of the industry works.
Congrats to Marie and best of luck on her new endeavor.
Natanya´s last blog ..Fashion Caucus Finally
I don’t comment much. However, I happened to be surfing other clothing sites and just had to say great post! Enjoyed reading it. I don’t comment much, but just had to say, “this is a great site”. Informative and will stopped back again Thanks for the insight!