FINALLY, women in the spotlight are taking a stand against the term “plus-sized.” Tyra Banks won all the ANTM watchers over with “Fiercely Real;” social media campaigns like #PlusIsEqual and #DropThePlus have gained traction, and Ashley Graham silenced all her haters by strutting on the runway in her chic lingerie line. The fact is, the term is exclusive and limiting. Which is why we shouldn’t put people of different shapes and sizes in boxes. Body positivity is all about embracing our different curves and edges and loving the skin we’re in. So we turned to some of our favorite celebs to say “ta-ta!” to fashion restrictions once and for all. Here are some of the fashion “don’t”s that we’re turning into “do”s.
1. Do rock bold prints
While it is true that solid colors (especially dark hues), tend to have a “flattering” effect, prints are a fun way to express yourself that no one should shy from. Jackie Goldhar of Something About That says, “I think that rule is completely ridiculous!” She adds that “curvy girls look just as fabulous in brights as slim girls do. They should also rock fun patterns.” Kasia rocked this leopard leotard on ANTM and so can you. We love this one piece from American Apparel ($48) with a high-waisted skirt and booties.
2. Do wear crop tops
Showing skin is totally in! Mindy Kaling inspires us to take risks with color, print and silhouettes, and this photo is definitive proof that crop tops can work for all body types. The key is to find one that works for your bust, waist and midriff. You can show as much skin as you want! “I’m still not entirely confident about wearing crop tops, but I do wear them when I have a cardigan or cute jacket to wear with it,” Jackie says. Try this fun, printed two-piece dress from LuLu’s ($84) for your next beach vacay, or warm it up for fall with a cardigan and boots!
3. Do wear (bright!) colors
Rebel Wilson is true to her name. She breaks rules left and right and makes some killer fashion choices. The structured shapes of this hot pink dress give it an edgy twist, and the color makes her stand out instead of blending her in with the crowd. Take a page from Rebel’s book and rock a bright, structured dress like this one from REVOLVE ($162).
4. Do wear leggings… whenever and wherever you please
No one should be deprived of the cozy, flexible comfort of a good pair of leggings. Melissa McCarthy even dressed hers up with girly heels and a fun top. Her fashion line is to die for and we can’t wait to see what she wears on the red carpet next. Try these faux leather leggings ($89) from Melissa’s line at HSN for a cool, trendy look.
5. Do rock horizontal stripes
Who can resist a preppy, yacht-chic horizontal striped dress or top? Lena Dunham is not shy about taking fashion risks and making her opinions known. Her cute, tailored sailor-striped dress shows the flirty side of the girl we know and love. Go for a similar but more casual look in this knit dress from Bloomingdales ($138).
6. Do show off your curves in a form-fitting number
If you got it, flaunt it. Queen Latifah is fierce AF in everything she does. This deliciously sparkly dress shows off her awesome body and commands attention. A glittery body con dress is perfect for your next date function! Try this one from Nordstrom ($198). It comes in four fun shades of sequins!
7. Do stun in a show-stopping dress
Will Oprah ever stop inspiring us? Her words of wisdom fill us with confidence and warmth, so why not steal some of her style choices too? We can see ourselves power posing in this purple dress for days. Take a hint from Oprah and strut your stuff into your next formal event in this purple gown from Macy’s ($119).
Fashion is about self-expression and confidence. These celebs show their personal styles and unique personalities through their fun fashion choices, and so can we! Step out of your comfort zone to wear a color, print or sillouette you’ve never tried before. Chances are, your style will morph into something unique and exciting, just like your personality!