Top Mothers Day Gifts Under $250

It's funny but the older I get the more I appreciate the heck outta my mom. Raise your hands if you feel the same way!! and if perchance you don't, don't worry it will change with time. 

Despite our differences, I find myself appreciating every moment I spend with her and in today's post, I'm sharing some Mother's day gift ideas. Cause it's in less than 3 weeks on May the 14th.

I'm getting to a point in my life where I prefer experiential gifts over stuff do you share my sentiments too? In the event that geography or your budget prevents you from giving your mom that dream trip to the Northern lights. I'll be sharing great gifts you can get mom under $250. I also thought it would be wise to separate the gifts by price.

GIFTS UNDER $50

Kate Spade Holland Bracelet Watch // Williams Sonoma Marble & Copper Monogram Boards // La Porcellana Bianca Firenze Cake Plate with Stand // Williams Sonoma Star WarsTM; Pancake Molds, Set of 4 // Clare V. Calf Hair Clutch - Ivory // Mcm 'Visetos' Trifold Wallet  

Mothers day gifts aren't only reserved for our biological moms, right? We've got sisters, aunts, friends, and in the event that one of them has school-aged children, she will love these Stars Wars themed Pancake Molds 

GIFTS UNDER $150

/Rebecca Minkoff Julian' Backpack // Jo Malone Playful & Lively Collection  // Bose Color Bluetooth Speaker  // I Love You Mom Porcelain Mug // Brush - Queen Bee Ceramic Trinket Tray // Kate Spade Lemon Recipe Book // Kate Spade Keaton Street Picture Frame //  'You Da Mom' Porcelain Trinket Tray

Scents make really great gifts, and Jo Malone scents are one of the best places to start. The brand aesthetic evokes understated luxury and quality craftsmanship what mom wouldn't love that. They have an expansive array of products, however, this Trio set is a nice place to start.

GIFTS UNDER $250

Foreo LUNA mini // Origins Bedtime Bests // Slip Silk Sleepmask // Foreo LUNA play Mint with Benefit // Prada Candy Florale // Chloé Coffret Gift Set // KORRES  Body Butters On The Go // Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace  // CHLOÉ Carlina round-frame sunglasses // Tory Burch Castaway Espadrille  // Women's Marc Fisher Ltd 'Adalyn' Espadrille Wedge Sandal

Finally, If you've got room in your budget to splurge, I'd recommend something that mom will get more use out of. Think of them as daily reminders of your affection.
 These killer retro-esque Circle Sunnies will remind her of times past. When in doubt a quality time piece like this One by Kate Spade is a sure winner. 

How has your relationship with your mother changed? Do you prefer getting/giving experiential gifts?

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Have an amazing day!

Orange Maxi Dress (Tall) Under $75 : Asos Occasion Wear

DRESS //  BOX CLUTCH // CLEAR SANDAL //  EARRINGS

I posted a preview of today's post on Instagram and I was promptly instructed to post ASAP 😂 so I am doing just that! In today's post, we are talking Dresses and I am collaborating with Asos to share the launch of their Occasionwear line. 

If you have been reading this blog for any length of time you already know how I feel about Asos. It's one of my go-to places to shop, with dedicated Plus size, Tall and Petite offerings, they have it all covered. 

In addition to sharing this gorgeous Maxi, I've rounded up a few of my picks from the site below. To take it a step further I also have a video trying on and reviewing a few more options Here.

It's almost wedding and prom season and, I'd say that Asos's Occasionwear launch is right on time. Make sure to check out the line Here.

SHOP THE POST

As soon as I saw this gorgeous ORANGE maxi on the site I knew it had to be mine! The color, ruffles, and tail just spoke to me. Also the fact that the Dress came in TALL 😱 sealed the deal, Im on the border at 5.7' it can be so hard finding Maxis I can wear with heels.

Another plus is that this Dress comes in a solid color and in a style that can be easily dressed up or down. This dress would be perfect for a beach/garden wedding or perhaps for dinner on your anniversary getaway.

SHOP OCCASION WEAR

I styled up the Dress by pairing it with the Crispin drops from Bauble bar. I love the ombre effect, which ties in nicely with my box clutch from Zara. I kept the rest of the look pretty minimal with a gold Cuff and perspex Sandals. 

Tip: When rocking a dress like this, it's all about the accessories. I could have easily paired the Dress with this Ring handle tote and Embellished flats (see ss17' Shoe Guide) and the look would be brunch appropriate.

Are you loving all this talk of occasion wear, sign up for our Newsletter for exclusive content and upcoming happenings also follow this blog on Bloglovin so you never miss a post.

Special thanks to Asos for collaborating on this post, make sure to shop the Occasion wear line Here

Have an amazing day!

Top 5 Spring & Summer Shoe Buys Under $100

I don't know about you guys but spring and summer is my favorite time to go shoe shopping. There is just more of a selection, so many different colors, prints, and styles
. In today's post I am sharing the Top 5 footwear styles everyone needs this spring + picks. I kept the round up budget friendly with almost everything under $100. Did I mention that I wear a size 11 so most, if not all of these shoes will go up to at least an 11.

The first piece of footwear you need is a mule, it is one of the breakthrough styles for spring. You can find them with bows, beads, embroidery and in various fabrics.

SHOP MULES

The second shoe style you need is a slide, thanks to celebs/designers like Rihanna. Slides are everywhere you can get them with, bows, fur, embellishment or with a slogan.

SHOP SLIDES

The third shoe style you need is an espadrille, now this style of shoe is not new for spring. However, the main update is in its pitch current styles resemble more of a flatform, which is a thicker more evened out platform style. Try an  Espadrille sneaker or even these almost flatform Chloe dupes Here & Here

SHOP ESPADRILLE

The fourth shoe style is anything with pom poms, tassels or fringe this is a carry over style from last year and its not going anywhere.

SHOP EMBELISSHED

Finally last footwear style isn't really a style but rather it is a color RED as I said in my Spring Trends post red and pink are the hero colors for ss17, and the easiest way to wear the colors is with accessories and footwear. 

SHOP RED/PINK SHOES

Add a pop of color to the most basic looks with red sandals, mules, ballet flats and slides. Channel Americana vibes in your white tee, jeans, and red Red shoes.

TOP FIVE
Sinclair Bow Mule //  Lace-Up D'Orsay Pump // Oxford Lace Up Platform Espadrilles //  Light green bow block heel mules //  Black floral embroidered pom pom sandals

What are your favorite style of shoes to wear in the spring and summer? Have you incorporated any of these styles?

Have an amazing day!

Top 5 Wearable Trend for 2017 to Shop Now

Spring is officially here and guess what? Its time for my annual spring and summer fashion trends guide. I am sharing the top wearable (plus size friendly) trends for 2017. 

Before we get into clothing pieces lets talk about the break out colors for spring PINK & RED specifically blush/dusty rose and the fiesta red are spring favored colors (just ask Zara). PASTELS are also having a moment like in every spring season (shop your closet for this trend). However, this seasons update would be in unexpected styles think utilitarian & athleisure (see more) clothing.

Metallic accessories/accents are also having a moment especially SILVER think shoes, and bags etc

We luv the new crop of statement tees (like the feminists ones) or even the gucci ones, SLOGAN/GRAPHIC are definitely having a moment its a great way to make a statement literally without saying a word. Visit our tee shop to shop the Chicster Tee's.

A trend that has been slowly creeping up is the GINGHAM trend and this season its hit its apex. You can do gingham so many ways this season. Start small scarf, or shoes, try a top or graduate to a Jacket.

Gingham comes in pastels but black & white is classic and can be worn for many seasons to come.

Im low key obsessed with stripes and BOLD STRIPES are so in this season its a versatile trend because you can buy accessories with stripes or separates and you can probably shop your closet. However with this season's updated stripes are more colorful than ever.

Last but not least one of my favorite trends is RUFFLES, Ruffled neckline, waistband, sleeves and hems. Ruffles everywhere ruffles ruffles everywhere. Its a girly girls dream and even if your style isn't particularly girly before you know it the daintiness wins you over. 

SHOP THE POST

Tip: Always shop your wardrobe first for the seasons trends before going to the stores.

These are the Top 5 wearable trend for 2017, there are so many others like small bags, mules, deconstruction, corsets (see how to style) and so much more. 

  Want to get first dibs on the list (Key will sell out pieces) to shop for spring/summer 2017? 

Sign up for our Newsletter for exclusive content and upcoming happenings and follow this blog on Bloglovin.  

Did I miss any wearable trends? let me know in the comments below 

Have an amazing day!

Top 5 Beach Trip (Vacation) Essentials

Humans are creatures of habit wont you say and it seems that, the habit of taking a break around spring stays with you long after college.

With that said I've noticed that most ( by most I mean young professionals) like to hit the resorts before the college kids sometime between January-March. One of you on Instagram requested help with packing for an upcoming Vacay after I posted This #TBT. So here you have it is Top 5 items to pack for your next beach trip.

SHOP WEAR EVERYWHERE DRESSES

The number one ESSENTIAL in my opinion is a dress, a Dress you can wear as a cover up, to dinner, and to go exploring basically an EVERYWHERE DRESS. Choose one thats light weight and in a solid color (like I did Here). Next essential is a TOTE, a sturdy canvas in a dark color can be used as overflow for souvenirs when traveling back, as a Beach Bag and a shopper/Carryall as you explore.

SHOP SHOES & ACCESSORIES

If want a stress free vacation dont forget to pack that hat (luv the tassels on this one), because there is nothing like a bad hair day to ruin the mood. Also with all the luggage restrictions these days who wants to pay more just to pack hair tools and if thats not enough of a reason your HAT will also double as a sleeping mask as you doze off on the beach. You can go for an on-trend boater style or a classic Fedora in Rafia/Straw or Canvas.

Don't forget to pack comfy footwear a SANDAL is a must pack a simple Sandal and an embelished one like This especially if you dont plan on packing high heels to transition you from day to night.
Lastly dont forget outerwear yes you may be going somewhere warm but you can never predict the weather and planes are notorious for being cold. So pack a lightweight CARDIGAN OR KIMONO that can wear on the plane, wear on the beach, as a coverup and wear to dinner as temps dip.

SHOP CARDIGANS & KIMONOS

Need a more comprehensive list check out this Post. If your not subscribed to me on Youtube  Subscribe because I will be sharing more on this Topic. 

What are your go to pieces to pack on Vacation?

3 Fool Proof Last Minute Date Night Outfits + Tips

When in doubt default to Denim a Nice Jacket and Cute Heels
see Original Post Here

Separates are your best friend pair a basic tee with a statement skirt and some strappy heels and you are good to go
 see Original Post Here

Finally still not sure what to wear? almost everyone looks great in something off the folder, which is why they're perfect for date night
See original post Here

SHOP THE POST

Happy Valentines day guys Pheww!!

These last couple of days have been &@#! anyway I wanted to come to you with a last, last minute outfit Ideas post for Valentines day so here it is three outfits you can wear today or on any other date night.

PSA: Please resist the urge to feel inadequate, if you dont have a significant other, these holidays are just part of the consumerism machine and are in no way a reflection of your worth. In case no one says this to you today you are beautiful and completely worthy of love, keep glowing Chicsters.

How are you spending your Valentines day? With your boos (girlfriends) babe or by your self. 

Top 10 Stores to Buy Plus Size Lingerie in 2017 + Picks

It used to be a small feat to find sexy plus size lingerie, thanks to companies like Lane Bryant and Torrid its not so much. However, they aren't the only companies that sell great plus size lingerie and I know they can sometimes not be the most affordable.

 So I thought I'd create a list of some other great companies and off course share my picks. Just in case you're looking to get something special for Vals day or just to feel cute & sexy ( no holiday needed ).

SHOP PLUS LINGERIE

Addition Elle

It's a Canadian branch that I, fortunately, had a chance to work with last year. They've collaborated on collections with influencers like Nadia Aboulhosn and created a Lingerie line with Ashley Graham.

Adore Me 

First came to my attention on Youtube and originally I believe they didn't have a plus size line, however,  after much demand for their gorgeous frilly, lacy and affordable pieces they extend their sizing. I'm 😍😍 with the Contour, Persia, Adelaide plus sets.

Amazon

if you are looking for 2-day shipping (a Procrastinators dream) then Amazon is a great place to start they have a great an affordable selection of plus size Lingerie. (bought This One)

AMI Club Wear

I was pleasantly surprised when I found out that AMI clubwear not only sells plus size clothing but also offers an extensive collection of plus size lingerie.

Asos

When you think of Asos you might not think of lingerie but they have always had lingerie, in the last year or they have ramped up their plus size range (Luv this One & its only $18.50).

Evans 

Although across the pond, Evans has a mammoth selection of bras and panties. As well as, lingerie from brands like Curvy Kate which specialize in larger cup sizes.

Full Beauty

Is a multibrand shopping site for plus size women that carry both high end and low end. They also have an extensive range of lingerie and are the sister site to Swimsuitforall.

Hips & Curves

This is a dedicated plus size lingerie site, they sell a variety of intimates, costumes & off course lingerie. If you are looking for something mouth watering you will probably find it on this site (luv the Straps on this set). 

Nordstrom

Has love for the big girls 😉, it's my go-to place, because of their generous return policy and FREE SHIPPING. They are not always the most affordable however I'm loving the pricing of the Icollection brand and in typical Nordstrom tradition, I'm sure the quality will be great.

Simplybe

Last but not least is Simplybe, I am always drooling over the lingerie section of their catalog. Although they are a UK brand just like Asos they offer Free returns and shipping over $40.
 and the best part their band sizes go up to a 50 & cup sizes I.

Icolection Underwire Convertible Longline Bra //  Icollection Bra, Garter Belt & Panty Set //  Icollection Thong Teddy //  Icollection Underwire Garter Chemise // Hanky Panky Crop Camisole //  Ashley Graham Underwire Chemise With Garter Attachments // The Artistry Strap Balcony B Bra // Black Bow Temptress Underwire Babydoll // Ashley Graham Underwire Garter Bodysuit // Icollection Underwire Chemise With Garter Attachments

Care to share your top places to buy plus size Lingerie?

Affordable Gifts For Him: Valentines Day Edition

Just when you thought you were done buying gifts you walk into Kroger, Walmart, Target (insert local store) and you see Valentine's Day merch everywhere. In today's post, I'm sharing great affordable valentines gifts for men. Just in case your pockets are still feeling the burn from Christmas. Would you also like a higher end gift Guide? please let me know in the comments. Shop the post below.

I luv the idea of giving accessories to guys that they wouldn't necessarily buy for themselves this Boys' silk pocket square in polka dot is right up that street.

 If the pocket square is a complete no then the Men's Miansai Gold Hook Leather Bracelet is another great option it also goes well with the square. Speaking of that both the Timex Classic Digital Watch in Gold and the Men's Two-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet would go pretty well with the Miansai Bracelet #armparty. 

 If your guy routinely enjoys a beverage or two 😉 he will appreciate the Cathy's Concepts Monogram Stainless Steel Keg Mug and or the Cathy's Concepts Monogram Stainless Steel Growler. Is he an outdoorsy type? Then the Patagonia Convertible Vest with a zillion compartments will be up his street. To make the most out of all that time spent outside (& capture memories) he will also need this wide angle lens by BITPLAY Hi-tech Accessories for the iPhone. 

He will also need to keep his iPhone charged right? The solution if he isn't into carrying or is likely to forget his cords, gift him the ultimate accessory the Mophie Juice Pack Air iPhone 6/6S Charging Case it's a case and a charger Genius I know.

Now if your guy is about that corporate life he will need The Tie Bar's Large Style Box they come in color themes and this monochrome  Large Style Box is a must have.

For those guys who aren't about that corporate life then these Nike Air Max 1 Sneakers are an essential. To go with them he might like the Adidas Originals Human Race Sweatshirt or the Adidas Originals Human Race Windbreaker.
Finally, if his aesthetic is more eclectic the Comme Des Garcons Play X Converse Chuck Taylor Sneaker is the way to go. 

Come back on Sunday for another Valentine's day themed post (hint 50 shades) also did you get a chance to check out my Date night outfits Video.

Share your gift ideas in the comments, what's worked in the past what hasnt? Any horror stories you would like to share?

5 Plus Size Outfits to Try in 2017

2016 was definitely an interesting year for me ( see Best Moments Here) it had its share of High and low's I'm sure I'm not alone, but that's not what today's post is about. As the title says we are here to talk about Outfits.  Just like last year instead of sharing my favorite Outfits, I will be rounding up yours. 

Hands down I believe this Outfit was the most loved of 2016. These are the best looks from 2016 according to the Chicster's on Instagram (thank you for over 41,000 likes). As we grow and build the Chicster community (collective) it's important to incorporate others perspective, so let me know which outfit is your favorite (out of the 5) in the comments or if you had a personal favorite that wasn't included!!

Pssst come back Friday for a post on my Top purchases of 2016 ( Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle ) and my thoughts on why you just might need them in 2017.

This Sweater and Pleated Midi Skirt Combo was a hit on Instagram and as of today date, you can get both the Top and the Skirt for under $60. I got the Skirt in a size 18 (I shoulda gotten a 16) and I purchased the top in 14 (very stretchy). SEE ORIGINAL POSTS HERE

This Wiggle Dress comes in so many colors on Asos and even in the Curve section this particular Dress is under $45. However, you better Hurry because there are limited sizes (get it Here) BTW I am wearing the Dress in a size 16 if your in-between sizes with hips and a butt go up in size. So who is ready for wedding season? SEE ORIGINAL POST HERE

Unfortunately, this Skirt was sold out before I wore it and I've received many compliments and comments about this look. This is one of my favorite ways to wear a Crop-top especially when you have a tummy just pair it with a Maxi. SEE ORIGINAL POST HERE

If you are following me on Snapchat you know how I stalked and lamented about these Zara sandals because they had sold out. To my supreme delight, they came back in stock and I picked them up. Detailed sandals like these just make even the simplest things (like a T-shirt dress) Pop. The Zara sandals are sold out see similar Here   

SEE ORIGINAL POST HERE

You guys were all aware of my slight obsession with Off shoulder pieces, so when I saw this Midi dress in burgundy with ruffles at Fashion Nova I was like yes, please. To make it further fall appropriate I added open Toes booties. To shop similar dresses visit Fashionnova.com and used CODE XOCHICHI for a surprise. SEE ORIGINAL POST HERE

Alright that wraps up the Top looks for 2016 

So what was your favorite look and did it make it? 

5 Things You will Love Too Vol. 5

When I first started this blog I did a few 5 Things posts, I always loved the idea, (got it from a fellow Blogger) because in a way its like a diary. The antidote for those moments when you look back at an old photo and wonder what you were thinking. This will be the fifth and last installment (see fourth Here) of 2016.

So originally this Five Things post was meant to be sort of the best of 2016 for each category (expect that in January), but instead I had the idea to share/celebrate the best moments instead. I said to you guys in my NYE Outfit Ideas post how i've just been really critical of my progress this year.
So I guess this post is kinda like therapy, I would like to think that you are a part of my extended internet family. So this recap is as much for you, as it is for me to reflect on how far we've come and where we are going to in 2017.

Fashion Bomb Daily Feature
I had known for a while that I wanted to submit my photos, but I always hesitated I guess I was waiting for the right time. I also knew that a lot of people had/have strong opinions about weight, obesity, and health so I braced myself for that. I was utterly blown away by the positivity I received, aside from a few "she dresses well for her size" comments, as far as I know no insults were hurled. My post did so well that I was nominated for bombshell of the year so please Vote for me HERE it would be an honor. (see Feature Here)

Spring Collab with Val, Viv & Ola
Im not sure whose idea it was but I do want to credit Curvycon for bringing us together, because although most of us were familiar with each other via social media aside from Val I didn't really know Ola or Viv well. However at Curvycon we met and bonded over certain frustrations lol. It turned out that being a part of the collaboration was one of the better decisions I made, because over the course of the year, it bore fruit in so many unexpected ways. #squad

Essence Feature
This was another moment that utterly shocked me, I wasn't expecting it. We arrived late to CurvyCon and the photographer from Essence was like, lets just get a quick shot of you, as we were trying to run in away from the sun. Aside from that my outfit received so much love on Instagram and the funny thing about it is that it was my second/last minute find. The original look I was going for, I just couldn't find in plus #westillgotsomwaystocome. ( see feature Here)

NYFW
This was like going full circle for me ( because I had been watching runway shows since about fiffteen, wishing people like me were included #inclusion we are getting there) even as I am writing this post the experience evokes a physical reaction. I had written this down and had told God that I wanted to experience NYFW before I turned thirty, I turned thirty earlier in the year so the clock was ticking.
I had previously talked myself out of making the leap of faith, after researching everything several times. I just thought who would let this fat nobody into the shows at NYFW , but every year when I would see photos from Bryant Park, Lincoln Center and finally Moynihan, I'd feel that familiar tug. Despite a few setbacks I finally decide that this fall would be the season and even though things were far from ideal I experienced it and I will be doing it again.

Hosting Get Styled
So many great things came out of collaborating with these Bloggers but specifically I want to Thank Val. I have to say I was influenced greatly by her drive and the collaboration with Fashion to figure was her Brain Child; Special Thanks to the +Fashion To Figure team and to Valerie for being the go gether you are 😘😘 It was the first event I ever hosted and the whole experience was such a whirlwind. I will be hosting even more in 2017 .

A Few Takeaways from 2016
Stop limiting yourself
Write your dreams down
Feel the fear and do it anyway
Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen (Hebrew 11:1)
Finally COLLABORATE, collaborate, COLLABORATE!!!

We are truly stronger together, this goes out to everyone who is reading this, have a business, a blog, a product reach out lets see if we can work together in 2017. Also if you are looking for NYE outfit ideas make sure to check out this Post.

If somehow we dont run into each other before the new Year, Happy New Year 🎉🎊🎉

Top 5 NYE Outfit Ideas 2016

Hi Chicster with less than half a month left in 2016 chances are that most of you have already started planning your 2017 glow up. But before we get to 2017 we still gotta get through NYE right? and we have to get through it with a bang Slaying for the Gwads ( do people even still say that?), cause there is so much to be thankful for.

 So I thought why not put together a NYE outfit Inspiration post, whether your spending NYE in, with friends, at a party or at a watch night service like I will be ( family tradition). Here is some inspiration from some of our favorite fashion bloggers to get you started. BTW you can "Shop The Post" down below 💋💋

Bloggers @mskristine TOP // PUMPS  @ladyshears DRESS // TRENCH

Planning a night on the town with your girls
Tip: stand out in a sea of glitter and black, go NUDE and take a cue from the standout king Yeezy.....

Bloggers +Ontheqtrain PJ BOMBER // DISTRESSED JEANS @iambeauticurve JACKET // SNEAKERS

Getting dressed not your thing for NYE
Tip: you can still rock a casual but subtly festive new years eve Outfit with metallic/glittery accents.....

Bloggers @everythingcurvyandchic DRESS // SANDALS @iambeauticurve DRESS // CLUTCH

Ringing in the new year at a soiree, shindig or PARTY 

Tip: a classic sequin dress is your fool proof never fail show stopper.....

With 12 days to New Years 😱😱 if you are in need of an outfit do not procrastinate get it now so that your sure it will get to you in enough time to make changes if nessasary.

Bloggers +Ontheqtrain PJ DRESS // CLUTCH @kellyaugustineb JACKET // PANTS

If you are spending the new year in Gods presence your watch night service outfit should be anything but BLAHH. 

Tip: start the new year in a look that shows that your Latter days will be better than your Former in pieces made out of fabrics that ooze opulence.....

Bloggers +ItsMeKellieB  DRESS // LIPSTICK  @mskristine DRESS // CLUTCH

Lastly for my socialites that will be embracing the new year sipping cocktails end 2016 in an outfit that is both understated and classy. 

Tip: choose pieces with subtle sheen or embellished accents and dont forget to add faux fur extras.....

SHOP THE POST 

I have to say that unlike last year Im not as excited as I thought I would be for next year. Ive been feeling super critical of myself. I think in this instance I am going to write down what I am thankful for and that will be my New Years letter to myself as a reminder of Gods goodness. 

Tip: When you get critical take a step back and reflect on what God has done for you, it always brings me back to a place of gratitude.