Talk about plus-size labels inevitably leads to talk about what actually constitutes plus-size.
In fashion industry terms, plus size can refer to any size above a size 12. It’s indicative of the ludicrous idea that fashion is only about size 4, 6, 8 and 10.
In my opinion, it’s the label “plus size” that gets in the away of celebrating the great inroads this sector of the fashion industry has made in offering alternative designs and ranges aimed at women with curves.
There is a long way to go but the choices and variety available now to women of all shapes and sizes is way greater than it was even five years ago.
There are more labels specialising in larger sizes and designs suited to curves. Within those labels, women have more fashion-forward choices than they’ve ever had.
One such label is Birdsnest’s Belle Bird. I’ve been talking up Belle Bird since its inception. I love a lot about this label but I most love that its premise is not about “plus-size”, it’s about creating designs suited to women who have curves, whether they’re a size 10 or 22.
Yes, a size 10 woman with curves can often find it difficult to find styles that suit her shape as well as her size. Previously Belle Bird had started at size 12 but due to customer feedback is now offering from size 10.
Today I’m featuring a new take on a classic design – the wrap dress.
The model
Belle Bird Belle spot print wrap dress $119
and me
Belle Bird Belle Spot Print Wrap Dress* (I’m in size 14) | Nine West heels
A wrap dress can be a wardrobe best friend – and this one certainly goes straight to bestie status for me.
The line is perfect, with the wrap coming in just under the bust. The v-neck doesn’t gape and the three-quarter length sleeves are universally flattering.
The fabric drapes beautifully without clinging and therefore negates any need to pop on shapewear.
It’s the underwear factor that propels the dress into full versatility mode. You want to know it’s available to you to wear for work, for a wedding, for the races and for out to dinner without feeling uncomfortable about what’s happening underneath.
As for the spots? I LOVE them. My first print love may be stripes but spots do run a close third (after leopard) for putting the fun into a print.
The black and white does lend itself to a multitude of accent options. Keep it monochromatic with more black and white; opt for nude shoes for a longer leg line; or pop the outfit with a red or hot pink for dramatic effect.
Do you love a wrap dress? A fan of the dot or spot?
* This piece was gifted to me for editorial consideration. This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase via these links I may receive a small commission. Full disclosure policy here. Full disclosure policy here.
Share your outfit to WIN
Every month in 2016 I’m giving away a $100 gift card to help freshen up your wardrobe.
This month you could win a $100 gift card from Surafina.
Each month, I’ll propose a different wardrobe theme for you to consider incorporating into your #everydaystyle outfit planning.
Each day that you incorporate that theme, simply upload your photo using the #everydaystyle hashtag. To be in the running for the prize, you just need to add the specific hashtag for each month’s theme. This month, the hashtag is: #SYwintercolour
You can enter as many times as you like. You can upload to Instagram or upload to the SY #everydaystyle community Facebook group.
This month’s theme is: Winter colour. Show us your favourite way to wear colour in winter. #SYwintercolour
Your outfit photo could be featured here on the blog with a link back to your Instagram page (if applicable). Entries close Monday, August 29, 2016. The winner will be announced on the blog, August 31, 2016.
Comments 22
I’ve been a long term lover of the wrap dress and have several in my wardrobe. I am also a suck for a black and white combination as a base, but the skirt looks little narrow for my liking. Which is a good excuse to try one on and see!
I shy away from a full skirt as it doesn’t work with my short waist and large hips, Mish. x
We are most definitely opposite body shapes then Nikki, because a full skirt hides my pear shaped booty and makes it look good!
Looks lovely. I like it on you better than the “model” version! Always a bonus?!
Not better, just different! Love this design
Thanks Kathryn x
It’s a gorgeous dress Nikki. I think my mum bought it. I might have to borrow it sometime. 😉
Go Mum! And yes, borrow it for sure x
This looks like a beautifully flattering dress Nikki, thanks for sharing with us. I do love love love a wrap dress…and what’s not to love about spots!
What’s not to love indeed?!
Oh I really like that half sleeve: so versatile for over-air conditioned offices and conference rooms.
Yes, it works all year round for aircon-ed spaces!
Was very excited to see your post this morning because i was wearing this dress today! it is gorgeous, comfortable and flattering…and looks great on you Nikki
It’s such a great dress, isn’t it Catherine?!
And…. Purchase!
Love it
Hope you like Paula!
Love a good wrap dress, as long as the wrap stays wrapped on a bigger bust!
Essential! I’m a 16D and the girls are well covered here!
This dress look all kinds of fabulous on you xx
Thanks Bev – Happy Monday to you x
I love this dress on you Nikki ,simply stunning I’m a big fan of spots Xx
Spots always make me smile, Lisa x