plus size fashion | IAMSHEGLOBAL

Sweaters & Skirts

Posted on October 12, 2016September 27, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

Cozy sweaters are quintessential to the perfect fall wardrobe and they pair perfectly with skirts. While skirts are not the first thought for the cooler seasons, they are a great pairing for a more elevated sweater ensemble.

I am all for the cozy sweater but have to be honest. We don’t get weather that warrants thicker layers until winter time so this is my Southern California take on the sweater and skirt combo.

I took a long cardigan sweater that I usually wear in summer, twisted and tied the ends for a cropped look and paired with a medium weight skirt. Like most items I wear, the entire outfit is full of color. While I love the rich and warm tones of fall, I do think you can wear any color at any time of the year.

If you’re in a colder climate you could rock this same look with a thicker knit sweater, add a belt and boots and layer a coat. The sweater and skirt are a pairing that offer endless combinations for your fall wardrobe! I’d love to see how you style your sweater and skirt looks. Be sure to tag me on social media @iamsheglobal

{Skirt, Thrifted, Cardigan/Newport News, Shoes/Lola Shoetique, Bracelet/From India, Necklaces/From China, Hat/Purchased on a cruise}

This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Together we are #UnitedlyPlus!

United Plus is our dedicated place to celebrate every woman, every body type, every clothing size, and every ethnicity. We embody inclusivity, honoring the unique beauty that each woman possesses. We encourage all women to embrace and love who they are today. We show persona style can encourage body positivity, foster self-confidence, and provide an outlet for personal self-expression. Please join us in our mission of united women from every part of the world, showcasing our individual beauty, and authentic creativity.

We’d love you to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and be sure to tag your pictures with #UnitedlyPlus so we can share in your beauty and self expression!

Concrete Jungle

Posted on September 19, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

Being a born and bred So Cal girl I’ve never had the chance to experience a true change of season. Yes, the weather cools and warms as the months pass but never have I lived in a place where the seasons bring a complete change in the landscape.

I’ve always dreamed of visiting the East Coast in fall to witness the vibrant change of colors as entire cities of trees shift from emerald to citrine and amber. For now, the closest I’ll get is this amazing dress that embodies the East Coast in fall.

The Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge set against a skyline of warm oranges and rich purples definitely has me in a New York state of mind. This cityscape paired with leopard accents is my wink and nod to the “Concrete Jungle”.

{Dress/ Gwynnie Bee, Coat/Newport News, Booties/Steve Madden}

Playing with Pantone for Fall

Posted on September 14, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

Each season Pantone selects a palette of inspirational colors that can be found in fashion. This fall’s picks are a wide range of hues from cool blues and greys to the more familiar fall colors of orange, red and yellow. The ladies of Unitedly Plus wanted to give our take on styling some these colors in hopes of giving you inspiration to try them!

I really like the overall selection of colors for this fall but one that stood out to me was “Spicy Mustard”. It’s a vibrant color while still being warm and inviting. It pairs well with so many other colors, from blue to russet. I love it most because it’s an unexpected ray of sunshine. It genuinely makes me happy to look at this color and to wear it!

Being the frugal fashionista that I am, I wanted to shop my own closet for a Pantone inspired look and this vintage coat I thrifted fit the bill. I am all about layering in fashion and fall is the ideal time to do that with the weather changing. I paired this summer dress over a long sleeve shirt and removed the belt from the coat to wear over the dress. I layered long necklaces and even threw a small braided belt over the coat as an added layer.

I love the combination and can’t wait to pair this color with other pieces in my closet. Check out Pantone’s full color selection and see which colors speak to you! I’d love to hear which one is your favorite and see how you rock it!

{Dress/Ross, Jacket/Earrings/Vintage, Thrifted, Boots/Nine West via Goodwill, Necklaces/Thrifted, Shirt/Newport News}

This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Together we are #UnitedlyPlus!

We’d love you to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and be sure to tag your pictures with #UnitedlyPlus so we can share in your beauty and self expression!

How Mixed Prints Became My Signature Style

Posted on August 10, 2016August 10, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

I remember the moment exactly, a few years ago. I was looking through a magazine and saw this picture of a woman wearing an outfit composed of mixed prints. I thought it was so cool but that I could never pull that look off. I was just beginning to come into my fashion confidence and this outfit was like stepping into the deep end. I was so inspired by that picture I tore it out of the magazine and pasted it in a notebook as inspiration and promised myself that I would be that woman wearing mixed prints with confidence some day.

Little by little, I tried. Stripes were a classic, comfortable pattern to start mixing so I tried that out in black and white. Then, I started pushing myself to mix prints in bold colors, larger prints, more detailed prints and the evolution began.

I made an internal pact with myself to push my own boundaries of what I was comfortable with. I played with patterns and prints and colors and let them lead the way. I removed the judgment from the process and just enjoyed it. I also told myself whenever I had the choice between a “safe” or “crazy” option, let’s say for an accessory or a pair of shoes, that I would always pick the choice that was least expected. This commitment to myself in exploring fashion blossomed into what is now my signature style.

Today, just a few short years later, virtually my entire wardrobe is prints and color, so I have no choice but to mix them. I even incorporate patterns in my shoes, hats, scarves, jewelry and bags. I receive comments that I am the print mixing queen and that I do it with such ease. If only they knew just a few short years ago, I didn’t think it was possible.

While mixing prints is a fashion trend, for me it was the tool that helped me discover my true style. If there is a style that inspires you or makes you smile when you look at it, I encourage you from the bottom of my heart to try it!! And then try it again, and again and if it feels right and it feels like you, own it!

Today’s look is mixed prints turned all the way up. Every piece is a print, worn in honor of every step of my journey to define my signature style and wear it with confidence.

{Jumpsuit, JCPenny, Blazer/Earrings/Thrifted, Shoes/Peter Pilotto for Target, Necklace/Bag/Bought in Guatemala, Mixed Bangles/Claire’s & Santee Alley, Scarves (one worn as a belt & one worn as a headwrap/Target, Hat/99 cents store}

This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Together we are #UnitedlyPlus!

We’d love you to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and be sure to tag your pictures with #UnitedlyPlus so we can share in your beauty and self expression!

Tropical Summer

Posted on July 13, 2016July 13, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

Tropical motifs in fashion scream summer. Whether its palm trees, pineapples or hibiscus flowers you can find tropical prints on just about every clothing item these days. What I love most about tropical prints is how diverse they are. They can be playful or very sophisticated and can be worn casual or dressed up. If you’re headed to a far off island or just chillin’ by the pool, a tropical themed ensemble will have you instantly summer ready!

I personally love palm prints and I fell in love with this vintage set when I found it at the thrift store. What’s more tropical than a jungle, right? I decided to accessorize in a jungle inspired tropical look pairing this set with colorful feathers, a mask necklace and a woven clutch. I love how the rainbow of colors pops off the green background and I think the accessories create an unexpected take on the tropical theme.

What print or accessory instantly makes you think of a tropical getaway? Be sure to tag me on social media @IAMSHEGLOBAL so I can see your island vibes!

{Skirt/Top/Thrifted, Shoes/Lola Shoetique and I added the embellishments, Clutch/Banago, Bangles/Made in The Philippines, Necklace was a gift and I added a mask I bought in Guatemala as a pendant}

This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Together we are #UnitedlyPlus!

We’d love you to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and be sure to tag your pictures with #UnitedlyPlus so we can share in your beauty and self expression!

Summer of Wanderlust – Southwest Look Book

Posted on June 22, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

I spent my summers in Arizona visiting my grandmother and the southwest holds a special place in my heart. There’s just something about the desert air, the expansive landscapes and breathtaking sunsets that make the American southwest magical.

These outfits are inspired by one of my favorite places where prints, hats and boots reign supreme. Add details of texture, feathers, fringe and turquoise and you are on your way to a southwest summer!

Full disclosure: I know that all of these layers are not exactly summer friendly depending on where you are. I was borderline sweating in some of them taking pictures. I just wanted to share some ideas to inspire you that you can take pieces of and make the looks your own.

The first look below was built around this amazing western vest I thrifted at Goodwill. The blouse is lightweight silk and a perfect top for warm temps. I used warm brown throughout in the bag, earrings and bracelet to pull the look together. Really, I needed a reason to use this amazing wide brim hat I got on clearance at Charlotte Russe! I can’t resist a good hat!

{Jeans/Ross, Blouse/Tolani via The Plus Bus, Vest/Thrifted, Boots/Ami Club Wear, Bag/Marshall’s, Hat/Charlotte Russe, Orange Bracelet/Bought in Kenya, Horse Bracelet/Forever 21, Earrings/Ring/Santee Alley}

This look is a more casual California/Arizona hybrid of sorts. I thrifted this skirt in Vegas recently and thought the print and color were quintessential southwest. I paired it with comfy wedges and a pop of green with the accessories. The fedora adds another layer of California cool and pattern to compliment the skirt.

{Skirt/Vest (Chico’s)/Sandals/Thrifted, Hat/Bangle/Target, Belt/Ross, Necklace/Bought in China}

Ok, so this look was a bit toasty but I really wanted to share this amazing bolero jacket with you! I found it at the Rose Bowl Flea Market for $3! It’s really more appropriate for fall but can you blame a girl for wanting to share her treasures!

I love the bright orange with the blues and greys. You could easily take off the jacket and just wear the jean top or vice versa or just wear the sleeveless dress and this outfit would work. Layered necklaces are one of my favorite ways to accessorize and I’m rocking that look here.

{Jean Shirt/Jacket/Shoes/Thrifted, Dress/Newport News, Bag/Target, Hat/The Left Bank, Short Necklace/from Nepal, Long Necklace/Earrings/Santee Alley}

This is a classic western look put together with simple wardrobe staples. A white blouse and jeans paired with a southwestern print scarf as a top. You can take any printed scarf (as long as its big enough), throw it over your shoulders and add a belt and you have a sophisticated shawl/jacket look. I think this is a great alternative to cardigans when you want to wear a light layer and is a wonderful way to get more use out of your scarves.

FullSizeRender 2

{Jeans/Ross, Blouse/Belt/Thrifted, Scarf worn as a top/Boots/Target, Hat/Bought on a cruise/Necklace/Bought at Ventura Flea Market}

Be sure to tag me on social media @IAMSHEGLOBAL and #SummerofWanderlust if you try any of these looks out!

Happy trails friends!

~Sheena

Ruffles For Days

Posted on June 8, 2016June 9, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

Next to lace, ruffles are one of the most feminine details and this season you can find them everywhere! Tiered ruffles on a skirt or along a neckline, the subtle waves can add volume and drama to an outfit or provide soft and easy curves to your ensemble.

I realize this look is not in traditional light or bright colors you would wear in summer but when I found it thrifting a few weeks ago in Las Vegas, I knew I had to share it with you. It has ruffles everywhere, from the collar to the neckline, on the back and mini ruffles tucked in the hemline of the skirt. On top of that it has built in print on print action which you know makes me a very happy lady! I’ve styled it for a summer night with dramatic eyes and sultry heels.

Will you be wearing ruffles this summer?

This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Together we are #UnitedlyPlus!

We’d love you to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and be sure to tag your pictures with #UnitedlyPlus so we can share in your beauty and self expression!

{Dress/Earrings are Vintage/Thrifted, Heels/JCPenny}

Country Chic

Posted on May 18, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

People ask me how I find such pretty pieces or unique items at the thrift store. I always hear, “I can never find anything when I go thrifting.” The truth is thrifting is a commitment. It can be hit or miss which requires going to shops often and visiting different ones.

Another thing I do is I never visit a thrift store with the intention of finding something specific. You will more than likely not find what you are looking for because the thrift store is like a piñata. You have to hit it a bunch of times and then you are rewarded with surprises and treasures!

This dress is an example of just that. I did not visit the thrift store looking for a vintage floral print nightgown but when scouring the racks at the thrift store I always have on my creative hat and look at pieces for more than their face value. On initial inspection, this looks like your grandma’s old nightgown but I loved the print and color and envisioned it as a flowy, country, bohemian style dress.

Belts are by far my best friend when styling thrift store finds and this simple braided belt (which was also thrifted) literally takes these pajamas and turns it into a beautiful floral dress for summer! Never underestimate the power of accessories! They make magic!

I paired this dress with earthy brown tones and country-esque accessories and I think this look is perfect for a day at the flea market or a picnic in the woods. It’s also amazingly comfortable because you are wearing pjs all day!

I’d love to hear what you think of this look and if you have a favorite go-to accessory that takes your thrifted finds from drab to fab!

{Nightgown dress/belt/shoes/Thrifted, Bag/Target, Hat/Bought on a cruise, Bracelets/Santee Alley}

Off The Shoulder

Posted on May 11, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

I have always loved off the shoulder looks as I think they highlight one of the most beautiful parts of the female body. Your shoulders are strong, seductive, alluring and feminine in their curves. What better way to show them off than with an off the shoulder top.

This look is very much on trend as a summer wardrobe staple but so many of the options I found online were in neutrals and you know how I love my color and pattern, so I decided to get creative!

I was inspired by a YouTubers, Mel & Steph from The Fashion Citizen and the easy tutorial they had about turning a button down blouse into an off the shoulder top so I decided to give it a go! I found this top at the thrift store for $2 and followed their instructions and it so was so easy, it makes me want to cut up all my shirts and convert them. The only thing I did different was I used a “no sew” adhesive that I bought at the 99 cents store in place of sewing the top.

My before and after are below. I also created a long sleeve version as well in a different print. Tag me on social media @IAMSHEGLOBAL if you try this out. I’d love to see your creations!

Note: This post is part of a blogger collaboration between Joi of InMyJoi , Sahily of PrettyInPigment and myself. Check out the #UnitedlyPlus hashtag to learn more about all of us and our collaboration!

{Pants/Calvin Klein, , Shirt/Thrifted DIY, Shoes/Forever 21, Necklace/Bought at Ventura Flea Market, Earrings/Thrifty Upenyu, Mixed bangles from Kenya & India}

Before & After

Leopard & Lace

Posted on April 29, 2016April 29, 2016 by IAMSHEGLOBAL

With all the delicate textures, garden inspired patterns and pristine dress wearing weather, spring is the perfect time to flaunt your femininity. Dresses are one of my favorite wardrobe items and this green lace stunner from Shabby Apple is the perfect addition to my wardrobe.

Lace is the ultimate in lady like fabric and the bold green is a wonderful contrast to the usual pinks, purples and pastels of spring. I had to stay true to myself in styling this and added “my” neutral: leopard print. It’s unexpected and gives the look a bit of an edge which I love.

My favorite details are the cap sleeves and the scalloped hemline that sways along my ankles. The best part of this dress is the color which can be worn year round. Wear it with wedges and a fedora in summer, pair it with boots and a cozy sweater in fall or add a sparkly necklace and heels for a perfect holiday look in winter.

**Sizing Note: There is a ribbon belt detail on the dress which I have covered with my belt. This doesn’t allow for any give in that area and was a bit snug on me. Keep that in mind when selecting your size. Otherwise comfortable fit.**