The ladies' paradise

Plus-size jeans

After seeing these jeans in InStyle magazine, I had to try them. They landed on my doorstep today, and I love them! They're soft and worn-in looking, with the promised wide waistband that's flattering, plus the width in the leg looks good, too. I got the Renee, but I also want the Lynn, too.

Renee jeans

Lynn jeans

Hip plus-size clothes

It isn't easy finding cute clothes for sizes 12 or 14 and higher. The department stores' clothes are usually fairly staid, and specialty stores like Lane Bryant can get really old really fast. (Although lately Lane Bryant has started making some slightly higher-quality stuff.) So I was thrilled to stumble across this great skirt at B&lu. (It comes in an orange/brown/blue/ivory stripe as well as this black one.) So far I've worn it twice -- once with an ivory V-neck lacy top from Kiyonna, and once with an ivory cami and lacy jacket.

Tula skirt at B&lu

I don't think I'd want to put together an entire outfit from B&lu, but many of the pieces would mix well with jeans and other pieces. (Also check out the page of B&lu looks for ideas about wearing their clothes or inspiration for mixing up what's already in your closet.) I would like this B&lu top for warmer weather, with jeans and heels for going out:

Priscilla top

And this dress, based on the same silhouette, is adorable:

Vera dress

Plus size? No problem

I've been talking a lot to people recently about where to find plus-size clothes that are not made for aging matrons. It's not easy. But a little Internet savvy goes a long way. So in the next few weeks I'll highlight what I've found online for women who wear plus sizes.

For starters, it may be time to take a second look at Lane Bryant. The clothes are trendy and, too often, really cheap looking. But if you look carefully you can find some great pieces. Now they've introduced a premium denim line, with great styling and details. ABS, which makes stylish standard size evening dresses, is now also designing dresses for Lane Bryant. And this morning I just noticed that Natori, which makes lingerie, is designing sleepware for the company. I really scored with this cashmere robe.

Lane Bryant cashmere robe