Designer to Watch: De-mes'Tiks NYC

A combination of vintage silhouettes and porcelain doll inspiration, De-mes'Tiks NYC takes African Chic to the next level with the distinct feeling of sophistication, polish, and glamour.  The designer behind the line, Rueben Reuel, not only commits himself to producing beautiful garments for all sizes, but also is committed to producing his line through the use of NYC garment district in hopes of preserving this historic place.  This line offers a full range of sizes from size small up to a 3x.  Price ranges is $150 - $200.  I am in love with the Naomi blouse. What's your favorite piece?

De-Mes'Tiks NYC by Reuben Reuel strongly believes in its motto: 

“Live to create, create to live”

 The Naomi - $150

The Minnie Bell - $200

The Naomi - $150

The Minnie Bell $200

This week save 15% off these designs by using the code RRR85. Oh and don't forget to enter the giveaway on the next post.  The winner will be announced Friday.  

End of the Summer Giveaway - MonifC Whitley

It's giveaway time!  I'm giving away the Whitley by MonifC.  At a $200 value, this dress is right on trend with the influx of fabulous neon. The size is a 3X, but runs small.  Don't worry if you are not a 3X,  a 1X or 2X can fit easily.  Brand new of course, I just wanted to share it with you ladies.  

All entrants must be followers the blog via Google Friend Connect.  Contest winner ends Friday, August 31, 2012, at 10AM Central Time.  Winner to be announced the same day.   There are multiple ways to enter.  Pick up 5 extra entries by just hitting the share button on the original post on Facebook Garnerstyle webpage.  The Rafflecopter will tell you how just use the rafflecopter widget below. Comment enter me & your email address, so that I can find you.  Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

K & G - The Budgetnista Post

The Steve Harvey Collection for K & G came out last week.  "Rez" (aka Kiah from Rez to the City) and I ventured over to K & G to check out the Steve Harvey Collection for Women.  There were some really cute pieces in the collection and most everything was under $50.  We took the opportunity to try on some pieces a search the rather large plus size section that the store has.  The prices are very inexpensive.  The majority of the Steve Harvey Collection had relatively good fabric for the prices.  Everything was some type of polyester blend, but again for the prices you really can't complain.  I actually ended up getting the bow blouse.  The fabric of that blouse was probably the worst fabric used in the entire collection, but the blouse was cute.  I spent $26 knowing that if I ever try to wash this blouse that will be the end of it.  Note that K & G prices for women's clothing are on the low end.  Clearance racks hover around $10 - $15.  

I've been getting asked a lot lately on how to still be stylish, but still stay on a budget.  Well for starters for most of us regular folks, we are all on some kind of budget.  My assumption  is that when people ask me this, it probably means that they want to spend somewhere in between $10 and $50 on a piece of clothing.   As stated before, I am cheaper than I look.   But I took the time to really think about what I do to save a dollar or two.     Here's what I came up with:

• I use www.retailmenot.com for coupon codes.  You can find a coupon or free shipping for most retailers here.  
• I take advantage of bad marketing.  A lot of online site that sell plus size clothes sell them in a lack luster sort of way.  It's rare that we get the fabulous campaigns that occupy the pages of Vogue.   It's not the garment is bad, it's just that photo doesn't sell the piece.  I think one of my gifts with plus size fashion is the ability to see the potential in a garment, even if it's photographed/styled in an non-marketable or unattractive way.  So in a sense, I am a good predictor of potential clearance items.  This allows me to buy higher end items at a super cheap price.  I have twice bought $300 tops for less than $20.  So before you completely dismiss an item, take a look at it  and ask yourself, how could I make this work for me.  
• I buy staples on clearance.  Clearance is a place where those trendy items of the season didn't sell, but it's also a place where those non-flair pieces, like the white button down  blouse, end up at hugely discounted prices.  When buying your staples, I always say buy the best that you can afford because you are going to be wearing them a lot.  This doesn't necessarily mean you have to spend the price on the original sticker, but it does mean that you should note the original cost.  Don't buy the $20 cardigan that originally costs $20, buy the $300 cashmere sweater that you got on clearance for $40.  
• So right now you should be floating around the clearance racks to buy for next spring/summer.   
• Shop for those designer items on Black Friday.  Save your money and get the stuff you really have been lusting after on Black Friday.  Just about every place imaginable is having an awesome sale.  
• Don't go hedge hog crazy when you find a $10 rack.  You can end up spending $100 on crap that you won't ever wear. When you get it home you are going to ask yourself, why did I buy this?  At some places things are put on final clearance, where they can't be returned so you just basically gave your money away.  
• Nicer jewelry is better bought in a second hand store or consignment shop. 
• Don't buy a whole outfit at one store.  Think about how to incorporate the new piece in with what you already have.  When I work with clients, I forbid them to buy more than two items at one store.  Shop and then edit out the things you don't have to have. 
• Everybody wants to look expensive, right?  Mix in your cheaper items with your more quality ones.  That one quality garment can take over the whole look and make you look like you spent the big bucks on every piece of the outfit.  
• Finally, if you want to shop cheap you have to watch what's going on online all the time.  Watch the items that you love and want to acquire.  Be ready to snag coupons or super deals.  

Dress:  $50

 Dress $50/ Skirt $35/Dress $50

Top:  $26/Jacket ($25) was straight size up to an XL (not on website)

Check out the K & G sales clerk.  She says that she only shops the clearance rack at her job.  Her skirt and top totaled $20.  I thought she was totally cute.   

Outfit Logistics:  Skirt - K & G $20, Top - Kenley Colllins $25 originally $178 (sold out), Kitten heels - Target $25, Necklace - Target $10, Bracelet - Charming Charlie $2

My entire outfit cost me $77 (including jewelry).  I picked up this skirt from K & G for $20.  It's actually serving the feel of Burberry for a fraction of the price.  I am already thinking of all the fancy tights and cashmere turtlenecks I can wear it with during the cooler months.  Note:  The K & G website doesn't have everything that they have in the store.  It's better to make the trip.  

King Spa Dallas: The Naked Truth

I love pampering.  Manis, pedis, facials, messages, etc...I'll take them all.  King Spa, a Korean spa & sauna with hydrotherapy, saunas, acupuncture, and a multitude of other amenities, peaked my interest after seeing a commercial.  I quickly looked it up online and...dum dum dum...I found out that the a couple saunas and pools were completely and utterly done in the nude.    Now anyone who knows me, knows that I don't do naked.  I am often disturbed by women's locker rooms in gyms.  There is always a lady who has full conversations, reads magazines, or just wants to air dry all in the nude.   Apparently, August has been the month of adventures for me.  I was talked into to going to King Spa in Dallas by a friend who came to visit.  Now she is more than comfortable with her nudity.  On trips, I often ask her to put on some clothes.  She is truly the equivalent to Samantha in Sex and the City.  Anyways, I always wanted to go, but the naked thing made me push it to side for further consideration.   Clothes, to me, are the great equalizer.  In them, I can be anyone I want to be.  Without them, I have no impression to leave other than I'm fat and I need some sun.  While being fat doesn't bother me, showing my rather bare large butt does.

I prepare by making sure I took care of any body hair issues and showering.  The showering beforehand isn't needed.  Once you get there you will be showing again.  So we get there and sign up for the body scrub (Of course, all this is done in the nude.)  Our entrance fee was $20, which allows you enjoy all the pools and saunas that you want.  I set a 2pm appointment, so I had time to luxuriate in the saunas and pools beforehand.  We go into the locker rooms, which are divided by sex, and they have these uniforms. No you already know this crap isn't going to fit. I fit the t-shirt fine, but the shorts (that only go up to an XL) nearly cut off my circulation.  If any of you decide to go to something like this, my best suggestion is to bring an all white t-shirt and short set.  For me, I will just invest in a pair of white shorts to go with the white shirt they provide.  Then, I mosey on into the naked rooms.  The towels they provide are about the size of a hand towel, so don't think you are going to be able to hide behind the towels.  I get into one of the saunas and can relax because in my head I'm covered by water...LOL.  Ironically, there is actually something very freeing about letting the clothes go.  I might even say that I was comfortable. 

So next comes the body scrub.  This body scrub was 90 minutes ($120) of naked heaven.  Included in this was a body scrub, a massage, a mini facial, and shampooing.  This 87 pound woman nearly scrubbed my color off.  I would equate the experience to your mother bathing you as a child when you really had gotten dirty.  They get into every crack and crevice of your body.  They lift boobs and spread legs.  No part of your body is off limits. This is all done in the pool and sauna area.  There is no privacy, it's done all out in the open.  Now my lady was so comfortable with her job, she did take a moment to brace herself on my booty, like full open palm.  What the hell could I say, she was giving me the scrub down in her underwear.  We were past boundaries and personal space.  I know this may sound a little nightmarish, but it was actually extremely relaxing.  (Side note:  if you can do this, you can get a Brazilian wax.) The best part is after they scrub they hose you down to remove the dead skin.  I will definitely get this service again.  I also want to let yall know that I've never been so soft and supple in my life.  Lunch came next.  The food was Asian oriented and was delicious and much needed.    Other things to note, are that the facility was very clean and required that you shower between services, after saunas, etc.  I think I took like 4 showers while I was there.  If you don't want to get your hair wet, you may want to bring your own head wrap, but honestly I think it would be best to go between hair appointments.  

I wanted to share this experience with you, since I know that it takes a lot for a person to shed their clothes and enjoy such an experience. The best thing I can say is that others are going to see you naked and you are going to see other people naked.  In a place like this, it's unavoidable.  If you go, you can dwell on the naked part or just enjoy yourself.  I will say that it probably would be best to go with a girlfriend (one is more fearless than you are).  My husbands shutters at the thought of being in a room with naked men. Oh yes and there are children in these rooms.  For women, it's not such a big deal, but I am sure that for men it's a little different.  

Ashley Nell Tipton - The Purple/Grey Haired Girl

While in San Diego, I took advantage of location and contacted newbie plus size designer, Ashley Nell Tipton.  We spent the day together having lunch, touring her work space, and having good ol' fashioned girl talk.  For me, Ashley represents the progression of plus size fashion.  She most recently graduated from Fashion Careers College as of Sunday (as in yesterday).  Plus size fashion has become such a movement that finally we have fashion design students actually wanting to design and produce strictly plus size clothing lines.  In my opinion, it's the only way plus size fashion will continue to grow, become more fashion forward, and get its fair recognition. If you're holding your breath for Karl Lagerfeld or any of these other designers to produce plus size fashion then you're going to turn purple and pass out.  Having our own designers, to me, has always been the best option.  

In better news, I got some exciting details from Ashley about her audition for Fashion Star, and her upcoming launch.   Fashion Star is a new show that started last Fall where designers are showcased in front of buyers from major retailers in hopes of getting their lines picked up.  It's like an American Idol for designers.  Ashley met with producers, they loved the line, and required her to do a video talking about her life, her line, and her struggles.  It's a fabulous video where you really get to see who Ashley is as a person.  The thing that stuck out in the video to me was that she states that she is dyslexic.   During our chat, she openly talks about her difficulties with reading and continuing her education.   It's obvious that she's a driven young woman, who won't let her learning disability stand in the way of her dreams.  I don't even really know this girl, but I am so proud of her.  It's easy to do something when it's handed to you,  but when you have to overcome obstacles and you are still reaching your goals that's amazing.  Her spirit, her positive nature, and did I mention her hair color are all just fabulous!  Of course I asked her when the line would launch and she's shooting for Spring 2013 and hopes to keep her prices under $100.  I'll be first in line for my piece.

Here's a side note on our day together.  Ashley and I ate lunch at Cheesecake Factory at Fashion Valley Mall and were literally stared down by the hostess.   I was confused a little.  I didn't know if she was staring because we were fat, fat and stylish, or just stylish.  The smirk on her face said that it was because we were fat and we had the nerve to try and be fashionable.  It was so uncanny that I couldn't even pay attention to the girl seating us because I was trying to figure out if she was going to say something.   (I was kind of wishing she would, so that I could say something back.  I hate rude people.)  Sometimes I think I'm in my own world that I don't notice other people's issue with my size.   In my mind, I am stylish and the size portion doesn't matter.  Maybe Ashley and I were just too much for her that day.  Maybe it was because I was in California and they are used to smaller people.  I've really never gotten a reaction (that I can remember) that was quite like that before.  It was weird.  Thought I would share that moment. 

Sisters, Jet-Setting, and San Diego

I've been on a bit of a hiatus.  This past week I was in San Diego for my sister's 40th birthday.  While there, I had a fabulous time (minus crazy traveling troubles). My sister's new husband threw her a super sweet party with all the trimmings.  I literally had to get off the plane and change into my party gear in the restroom and take a cab straight to the party.  I got to visit Coronado beach and all of it's seaweed and kelp glory.  I dined on delicious Persian Cuisine at Sadaf Restaurant in downtown San Diego with my sister and cousin-in-law.  I literally spent the day with newbie designer Ashley Nell Tipton (post to follow this one).  Finally, the icing on the cake, my sister did my make up and braided my hair in funky french braids every day I was there.  She's a MAC make-up artist at Nordstrom at Fashion Valley Mall.  So I got to run around San Diego looking fabulous as ever thanks to her.  

Outfit Logistics:  Dress - JIBRI (Free piece I received for submitting video of me wearing JIBRI), Shoes - Calvin Klein via Nordstrom Rack $50, Jacket - Torrid $48, Necklace - Liz Claiborne (old), Clutch - Nordstrom Rack $50, Belt - Ashley Steward (old)

Leopard Swimsuit: MonifC $74

My sister was amazed to see how much stuff I could pack into a small suitcase.  I was traveling on a buddy pass and with that in mind, I definitely didn't want to check a bag.  I knew if I did, something was getting lost.  I only brought a carry on roller. In it I packed 3 pairs of pants, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 skirts, 2 dresses, 4 belts, 4 shirts, 1 clutch (strapless, regular, & sports), 1 bag, 3 bras, 5 undies, a camera, makeup, 1 necklace, 1 swimsuit, 2 jackets, and toiletries.  I used the military method of packing.  I folded and rolled each item tightly.  This is also a nice method to minimize wrinkling.  Best believe I maximized every itch of space.  When jet-setting, having one bag is just more convenient.  How many times do you bring stuff that you don't even use because you over packed? Packing like this reduces the amount that you have to lug around and helps reduce the amount you have to unpack when you come pack.  I have been known to let a unpacked suitcase sit around for a month.  Don't judge me.  

Although not fashion related, I wanted to address this. I have had an overwhelming amount of questions emailed to me about traveling while plus size, the seat size, and getting put off of an airplane.  First off, traveling coach is uncomfortable for most people.  Business and first class are much more comfortable, has a wider seat, a lot more leg space, and all the ginger ale you can drink and a bathroom close by in the case that you over indulge in this sparkly thirst quenching treat.   In coach, your personal space is invaded because you are packed in like sardines in a can.  Second, I have never been put off of an airplane and I fly at least four times a year.  I have a 60 inch hip spread.  I can't lie, the seat is snug. Sometimes I have to ask for a belt extender and sometimes I don't.  It's up in the air depending on the airline.  I have the most luck with wider seats and seat belts on American Airlines.  I hope this helps with your traveling apprehension.  Remember, live your life to the fullest.  My next trip is to NYC for fashion week.  Just like I don't let my size dictate my style and I definitely do not let it dictate my travel adventures and you shouldn't either.  

**Update - I just wanted let you know my sister's maxi is Calvin Klein ($20) and came from Ross for those who wanted to know.  

Brassieres

Believe it or not, I've never worn a Playtex bra.  In my head, I associated them with older women who only bought bras for function and not for how they look.  Personally, I like a bra to be both fancy and effective.  When Playtex offered to send me one of their Plunge Lift Under-wire bras, in leopard I might add, I jumped at the chance.  They had me at leopard.  I  also thought it would be a great way to review a budget friendly brassiere.   The undergarment in question, I've seen retail for as low as $15, but not priced over $31.  Sizes go up to a 44DD.   (I ordered a 40D.)  I would consider this to be a quintessential "freakum" dress bra.  (Please click here in the case that you haven't heard this particular Beyonce song.)  What I mean by that is that this bra enhances and gives great cleavage. The plunge allows you to wear lower cut dresses without the bra being seen and, on top of everything else, it's a three way, so you can wear it crisscross and halter style in additional to the traditional way.

For me, a good bra is not only stylish and functional, but it keeps me in the green zone.   The green zone is in the middle of the elbow and the shoulders.  On the last post, I was wearing the Playtex bra, so I decided to use the same photo just to demonstrate the great lift.  This bra has no slip straps.  My straps are always slipping if they are not tight enough.  I've been wearing this bra for about 3 or 4 days now and I haven't had any slippage yet.  Find this Playtex Secret bra here as well links to their many retailers. 

Best Jeans Ever

I always get the question, "Where can I buy a fabulous pair of jeans?"  I always think, if you find out let me know.  It's not secret, I hate jeans.  I can never find a pair that fit in a "non sloppy" sort of way...until now.  I have to hand it to Torrid, these jeans are fabulous.  It's a perfect combination of the right cut, stretch, and denim.    A few posts back, I had a chance to try them on, but I had on my girdle and I couldn't really get the full on experience.  I was just not about to take off my girdle that would have been too much work.  They fit like a glove and are actually comfortable.  I spent practically all day in mine and didn't feel like my circulation was at risk...LOL.  These even have a cute little zipper on the side.  Oh and I ordered a size 26.  I wish I would have ordered a 24 for the smaller waist and because of the stretch these will get a tad bit looser by the end of the day.  I will get the waist taken in to get that extra perfect fit.  

In case you were wondering, yes there is a "bump it" in my hair.  Don't judge me. Anyways, this snazzy little jacket came from Torrid as well. I thought it would be kind of fun to do a Blogger Stole My Look/Who wore it best poll.  Jessica of Life & Style of Jessica Kane has on the same pieces, but with her own twist.  She looks tre' chic.  It's a friendly competition where the winner gets bragging rights.  

Outfit Logistics:  Jeans - Torrid $48, Jacket - Torrid $48, Top - Dorothy Perkins $20, Shoes - ShoeDazzle $40

Public OpinionPoll Results

LBD

I figured since I never wear black, I was definitely overdue for a LBD or little black dress post.  This plus size dress comes from Kiyonna and yall know I have to put my own spin on, so I actually turned this dress around and wore it backwards.  This time it was on purpose...I promise.  I did a minor alteration on my new nifty sewing machine to smooth out the back where the breast are "supposed" to be.  I like the neckline better this way.  

So pointy toe shoes are back.  I have been hanging on to an old pair of Ninewest pointy toe pumps for years just for a moment like this (who says hoarding doesn't pay off).  I decided to do a little DIY project with the whole capped toe look that everyone, included myself, is going bananas over.  In my head pops in the song..."that ish is bananas, B-A-N-A-N-A-S!  I always associate something with a song.  Anyways,  this was a quick do it yourself project that involved some tape (I used painters tape because I had it laying around) & pink nail polish (don't judge me & I would probably advise using some craft paint).  If you are going to do a project like this, an old pair of shoes is a great way revamp an old thing in your closet.  I thought they came out super cool.  After wearing these shoes, I remember why I hate pointy toe shoes.  Wide feet and pointy toe shoes do not go together.  

In case you were wondering where I got my pink polish from, I got it from a Nokia sponsored event.  Nokia Lumia 900 has a new pink phone and partnered Nikki Minaj's manicurist, Kandi Banks, to create a pink nail polish to launch with the phone.  In case you can't see in the picture, I'm wearing the polish as well.   The color is really pretty and a beautiful shade of pink.  Every girl always has to have a fabulous color of pink polish around. 

Outfit Logistics:  Dress - Kiyonna $158, Shoes - Ninewest (similar), Belt - Ann Taylor $50