I’ve been pretty transparent about my personal growth journey this year, which I’ve been framing as a “rebrand.” You know I love a good romanticization. But the journey hasn’t always been romantic. It’s awkward enough rebuilding a wardrobe as it is, let alone in front of 12 million people. But over the last few months, after countless fashion blunders and not-so-flattering looks, I finally feel like I’ve made a breakthrough and found a recipe for my fashion equations that finally feels like…me.
As someone who has been plus-sized for most of my adult life, I have had my fair share of struggles in finding clothes that fit or brands that carried my size. Formerly a XXL/18/20 and now a L/12/14, I still identify as someone with curves and areas that I feel insecure about - particularly my apron belly (an area I’m constantly bullied for online).
Here’s the thing: I don’t believe anyone has to dress “flatteringly.” In fact, I’ve often gone against that framework. But as I navigate my weight loss journey and get familiar with the body I live in today, I’ve found myself caring more about dressing in ways that compliment the areas I feel most insecure about.
Some looks might not be flattering, and that’s okay. Some looks might be, and that’s fine too. The point is this: whether you’re dressing to conceal or to accentuate, the goal should always be discovering what makes you feel most comfortable and free.
Here are a few highlights that have worked for me and my body type. Try them on for size!
Blazers have become my go-to for almost everything. A well-tailored blazer instantly makes me feel put together - whether I’m heading to a meeting, filming at home, or running errands with my girls. Structured shoulders and clean lines create balance, and the versatility makes it the ultimate staple.
I’ve learned that dressing in a single color palette, whether neutrals or a bold tone, elongates my frame and creates a polished, cohesive look. It feels effortless, but intentional.
Bonus: Monochrome always photographs beautifully.
A white button-down, perfectly cut trousers, soft knit sets - these are my anchors. Basics that aren’t basic at all, but thoughtful, elevated pieces I can wear a hundred different ways. They’ve taken the guesswork out of daily dressing.
Something I don’t take lightly is the power of shopping for my height. I buy bottoms when they’re available in short/petite. I opt for midi dresses over maxi dresses. Cropped jeans work for me as full length jeans. These are little hacks I use when shopping to make things easier and more flattering for my frame.
If I don’t feel comfortable, I won’t wear it. Period. I’ve stopped buying pieces that “might work one day” and instead choose fabrics that breathe, waistbands that stretch, and silhouettes that move with me. Comfort and confidence are deeply connected.
A belt, a statement pair of earrings, or a vintage bag can elevate the simplest look. I’ve realized accessories are where I can be playful without overthinking proportions or fit. I also have learned that an outfit becomes a LOOK when it feels styled. Just like a house becomes a home when it feels styled. The same rule applies. When an ensemble feels curated, it radiates intentionality and personality. Leaning into this more as I navigate my fashion philosophy.
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Rebuilding my personal style in my 30’s has been messy, emotional, and humbling. But it’s also been incredibly freeing. Fashion is no longer about squeezing into trends or hiding the parts of me I’ve been told to be ashamed of. It’s about honoring the body I’m in, embracing what makes me feel good, and dressing for the life I’m building.
If you’re in a season of rediscovering yourself - your body, your style, your voice - I hope you give yourself the permission to experiment, to get it “wrong,” and to try again.
Style isn’t about perfection. It’s about expression.
And right now, I’m finally starting to feel like my style expresses me.
