I’ve been curvy since birth—10 pounds at delivery, to be exact. After years of the media telling me my body wasn’t the “standard,” I had defaulted to a uniform of head-to-toe black just to stay under the radar. That ended the day I realized my closet had become a graveyard of dark, “slimming” clothes where I couldn’t tell one item from the next. I decided right then that if the world was going to see me, they were going to see me in technicolor.

But my color revolution hit a roadblock. Most plus-size “options” were matronly, boxy muumuus in hideous patterns—another subtle way to shame those of us with elbow dimples and soft bellies. I made a new vow: absolutely no muumuus. I became a ruthlessly picky consumer, refusing to buy anything that didn’t make me feel special.

Initially, I leaned into Goth and Pin-up subcultures which, unlike mainstream retail, actually celebrate every body type. 

Then, social media changed the game. My feed began to fill with niche shops that finally “got” me, offering the vibrant, trendy pieces I’d always hunted for. Now, major brands are finally realizing that Rubenesque women have both the capital and the taste to demand excellence—and we’re done spending our hard-earned money on unflattering, ill-fitting clothes.

Now that we curvy girls have more options than ever, it’s time to get down to business! Before you shop, ask yourself:

• What is your body shape, and what asset do you want to spotlight?
• What is your vibe? Are you a “loud colors and accessories” girlie, or do you prefer a sleek, monotone style?
• What is the occasion? Do you need elevated loungewear, professional business casual, or are you looking to be dressed to the nines?
• What is your budget? The good news? The internet is a goldmine for whatever you need. Sites like unique-vintage.com, torrid.com, and ashleystewart.com are staples, while “old school” retailers like oldnavy.com, macys.com, and nordstromrack.com have significantly expanded their offerings.

Pro Tip: Clicking on expanded sizes at major stores actually trains your algorithm—soon, you’ll see ads for specialized, niche brands you never knew existed!

Finally, if black is your signature color, go for it! More and more gorgeous, high-fashion dark outfits are coming out for every size. Just make sure you’re wearing the color because you love it—not because you’re trying to hide.