Hey PHAT Girls!

There are certain clothes that I have a love/hate relationship with. I love the clothes and I have so many thoughts of how to style a look based on the clothes but I hate the fit. I know that many of you can relate in some manner. Sometimes, you don’t like the silhouette; other times it could be the fit (length, cut, stretch-ability…). However, despite the situation and no matter how great your desire is… Things just never work in favor of the slay!

I would definitely say that I spend 50% of my spare time online shopping, looking for something I think is suitable. I was to look fierce and feel confident in what I wear and I think that’s really important. Luckily for me, I have an amex blue so I get complimentary 2-day shipping from some stores, so when I do order online, I don’t have to wait ages for my parcel to arrive but I also don’t have to take out a second mortgage for next day delivery!

For years, I have had a major love/hate relationship with pants. I live for a pair of pants that fit properly, are cute and comfortable but finding them have proven to be a challenge. Being that I am an educator (and are required to dress somewhat professional) paired with the fact that there is a fashionista inside of me with the souls and style of Tracee Ellis Ross, I want to wear slacks with funky blouses and pants suits of all kinds (especially tailored). However, I just can’t find what will compliment these curves in the manner I desire.

Now I know I said pants and was specific but you must know I meant jeans too. I love me some jeans! Aside from them being a timeless fashion staple (like the little black dress), they offer so much diversity and personality. You can dress them up or down simply by changing your shoes and accessories.

As a woman with a fuller mid-section (apple shaped, pear shaped, oval shaped, round shaped…) fit is always an issue when shopping for pants.. That issue is based on the size of our stomach (fullness and hang time). Many of us round ladies wear foundations (girdles), in an attempt to some what control the all mighty gut but that can prove to be problematic and hella uncomfortable when wearing jeans. So, then we must get Shakespearian…To rock jeans or not to rock jeans!

A pair of jeans with a lack of stretch will not work for me nor women shaped like me. Why? Because many times if the stretch isn’t good enough, its a great Imprint, making it more pronounced and that is a no for me! Now before someone takes the wrong thing from that last sentence, let me say I love my body and I am not ashamed of it (anymore) nor am I trying to hide it (anymore). However, I am not a fan of having my entire stomach on full display and last, I checked It was my choice.

Well, enough about the problem! Let’s talk about the solution and how Ashley Stewart has made it darn near impossible to not #treatyourself. First let me say that the few pairs (3) of jeans I have owned over the years have all come from Ashley Stewart. They were the only brand that had jeans that I considered decent.

Yes, Ashley Stewart has been notorious for good plus size denim, until now! On July 31, 2017 they retired their oldie but goodie 5 pocket denim collection. However, on August 1, 2017 the brand released a new and improved denim collection. The new denim collection is nothing short of amazing! With greater stretch, more size options and the introduction of extra short inseams; this collection has something for every body type.

I was honored to be among bloggers/ style influencers who received the new denim collection prior to its release. Not only am I happy I have them to added to my wardrobe, I am happy to be able to share with you how amazing they are so you can get a couple pair when you are shopping this weekend.

I have never worn jeans without a top to covered my hips. Initially when I was photographed for this post I was rocking the length shirt I would wear with pants. However, after falling in love with the girlfriend jeans, I had to rephotograph in something bolder. So, I paired my jeans with something I have never paired them with before… A bodysuit!

MY STYLE JOURNAL

Floral Kimono: Fashion Nova

White Bodysuit: Citi Trends

Girlfriend Jeans: Ashley Stewart

White Wedge Sandal: Nine West

Anyway, enough chatter, I have some online shopping to do! Yeah, I’m getting every pair!

Chime in babes! Have you tried the new Ashley Stewart denim? How do you rock your jeans, or are they a no for you? LET’S TALK!

*PHOTOS BY P DILLON PHOTOGRAPHY