Leather Jacket

Several years ago I fell in love with this vintage leather jacket I used in a shoot and I just had to have it.  Its perfect for this fabulous Fall weather we are having, so it has become my favorite jacket again.  And those awesome boots...unfortunately they were not my size!  In case you missed the photos the first time around, here they are.  

 

 

 

 

    

Photographer:  Dirk Olsen
Styling:  Lisa Byrd Thomas
Makeup and Hair:  Shelby Willis
Model:  Basma Sakan

Plus Size

OK, it's time to get on my soapbox.  I don't do it very often, but some issues just NEED to be addressed...like plus size clothes.  First of all, I must admit that the selection of plus size clothes is much better than it was in years past.  The following photos show some of the cute options available.  However, clothing manufacturers still have a far way to go before they have met the basic needs of the plus size woman.

Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant



Torrid

 Cute dress, but unfortunately, this was one of the few garments at Torrid that offered any coverage.  Most larger curvy women I know, want to cover their arms.  A 3/4 length sleeve is the most flattering because it doesn't end at the bustline.

Roaman's


The average size woman in the US is a size 14, the size where plus size clothing begins.  With that many plus size women buying clothes, they should have a huge selection.  Did you know that many clothing designers only carry up to size 8?  That's ridiculous!  And one other point before I get off my soapbox...why don't plus size stores use plus size models?  Enough said.







 

Thrift Heaven

For those who regularly follow my blog, you already know how much I love thrift shopping for myself and for wardrobe items for photo shoots.  The closest thrift store to my home has always been 30-45 minutes away. Well, my dream has finally come true.. a new Goodwill just opened 15 minutes from my house.

Today was the Grand Opening of the Collierville, TN store.  It is roomy, well organized, stocked with loads of merchandise, and staffed with helpful smiling faces.  It gets and A+ from me.  I was really surprised to see so many people there since it is located in a rather affluent suburb of Memphis.  But, thrift shopping is no longer taboo among the rich.  In fact, it's rather in vogue.  I arrived 30 minutes after the ribbon cutting and the store was completely packed with shoppers pushing baskets brimming with terrific finds.  Here are a few of the great items I spotted...that were still on the racks!    

I'm into lace up boots right now...and the floral design adds a girly touch.



Black and Silver Ankle Strap Wedges by Newport News



Stylish pewter flats with bows by Loft

Suede Airwalks for those casual days.



Roomy Black  Handbag with tassel



Terrific faux leather purse with brass studs



Fabric hobo - Love the fall colors



Tweed double breasted jacket by Loft 





Camel velvet jacket by Gap - Love the tiny buttons





Olive military jacket with floral design on back





Mint chenille looking bolero (tags attached) from To The Max



Fabulous periwinkle paisley blouse by Talbots - not the least bit classic!




This was my size, so it came home with me...hippie style tiered long skirt



Warning:  Thrift shopping can be addictive.  Buy only what your really love and really need.

   

Military - Trend or Timeless Classic

Granted, the military "trend" is more popular in some seasons than others.  But it's almost always around in some form or another.  Really, we should consider it a timeless classic instead of a trend. 

 

Burberry



KMart

 The fashion magazines and runways are abundant with models totally decked out in full military array...jumpsuits, aviator jackets, cargo pants, lace up soldier boots, uniform hats, and jackets with buttons and huge epaulets.  How do we interpret the look to suit our lifestyle without appearing to be dressed for Halloween?  I suggest wearing one military inspired piece at a time. 

Two easy pieces to incorporate into your current wardrobe are the military jacket and cargo pants.  There are always some really great, but inexpensive options available.  Pair your military jacket with jeans for a totally casual look with plenty of style.  Or throw it over a feminine dress for an unexpected combination (as shown above).



Balmain



Moschino

Whether your opt for the new skinny cargo pants or the looser (easier to wear) original version, try adding a floral top or casual sweater for two totally different looks.

For those of you who prefer to be more understated, but still want to add a military inspired piece to your wardrobe for fall, here are two great options.



Dries Van Noten



Paul Smith

    
My advice for your first military purchase...buy a "middle of the road" jacket, then plan to keep it forever.  Trust me, this won't be the last season you will wear it.