One of my least favorite aspects of the fashion world is how the industry has created an unrealistic expectation of how women should look. What’s interesting to me is up until the 20th century voluptuous women were the most desirable. Before I let you in on my favorite curve-friendly brands, here is a brief history of ‘ideal’ body images…

The most dated ideal body was the Rubenesque woman, full-figured and sensual. From what I remember in the history books, men and women in the 1800’s were most sought after if they were round. This was perceived as being wealthy enough to afford all the food you could imagine!

Next came the “Gibson girl”, a body archetype that praised big bust women with small waists formed by corsets. The flapper was introduced in the 1920’s with a slender body image, but post-war was for the curvy pin-up girls. This era was represented by the beautiful Marilyn Monroe who some would argue is still the most beautiful woman in American history.

The pin-up era ended similarly to the takeover of the slim flappers. The 60’s body image was shaped around the 90 pound model, Twiggy. Twiggy’s bone-thin look took the fashion world by storm! She was seen on magazine covers across the world, deeming her the style and body icon of the decade. The 90’s intensified the unhealthy obsession with being thin thanks to trends becoming more grunge. Kate Moss super headed the heroin-chic period with her ‘beautiful’ drugged look. Crazy.

Welcome to the 2010’s! Celebrities are promoting physical and mental health, women are becoming body positive and designers are finally beginning to ignore outdated body standards. With this attitude, there has been a large expansion of brands with more stylish options for all sizes. Check them out below!

Pretty Little Thing

One of my favorite brands that offers a range of sizes is Pretty Little Thing. There are models in every shape and every color (ignore the fact that I chose the same model for these three looks), and they are not afraid to take risks with styling. They have the BEST going out looks and make every body feel beautiful. Shop my fave date night looks!

Blazer Dress, PLT+
Twist Front Kimono Dress, PLT+
Wrap Top & Slinky Wide Leg Pant, PLT+

ASOS

I love ASOS.com because they offer a variety of brands as well as their own. I love their ASOS collection and usually gravitate towards their basic bodysuits and statement third pieces. They offer specialized sizing including petites, tall, and curve… I love these essential pieces for the women with curves!

Leather Biker Jacket, ASOS Curve
Cropped Graphic Tee, ASOS Curve
Cropped Suede Jacket, River Island Plus

Forever21

We all know and have shopped at Forever21 at one point in time. Their curve collection is not only affordable, but on trend and offer new arrivals daily! Grab your trendy pieces while they’re hot at low prices like these, so you wont be at a loss if they go out of style.

Oversized Blazer, Forever21+
Plaid Jumpsuit, Forever21+
Pleated Mini Skirt, Forever21+

Good American

Good American is a denim brand created by Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede, designed for a curvier, sexier shape. As a denim specialist I was excited to hear that Nordstrom was going to be the first retailer to carry GA in store. The brand promotes body positivity with extreme exclusivity – sizes ranging from 00 to +24. The brand expanded from denim to clothing and athleisure with promises for more to come.

Compared to price points from brands above, Good American’s prices start at $55 for t-shirts and go up to $269 for fashion styles. All bottoms are high waisted and bodysuits are compression, made to flatter every body type. In other words, you’re getting what you pay for!

Compression Bodysuit, $129
Waxed Bermuda Shorts, $159
Good Straight Jeans $159

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