Changing with the Seasons

natalie craig, natalie in the city, plus size fall fashion, 2018, off the shoulder dress, burgundy dresses, fashion to figure, new york and company, chicago, chicago plus size fashion blogger, petite plus size fashion blogger, just fab, wide calf boots

I’ve been waiting all year for this. For whatever reason, my mood is 100% better when fall is in the air and leaves are on the ground—and it definitely helps to have a super cute outfit on.

I saw this Valerie Cold Shoulder Dress at Fashion to Figure toward the end of summer, and I just couldn’t wait until Fall kicked in so I could wear it. Burgundy tones always look really good on my skin tone, but I especially love to wear them during fall. Anyone else with me? Not only is the color gorgeous, but the way this dress hugs my curves is show stopping. As soon as I slid on this dress I felt so confident with my curves front and center. The only thing that could make this dress better was knee-high boots, of course. I am wearing the Sirena Block Heel Boot from Just Fab. These are technically wide calf boots, but they are a little tight—for reference, my calf circumference is 19”. However, I was able to get these boots on no problem, and I love them. I feel like it’s so hard to find a neutral boot that isn’t too brown or too yellow… you know what I mean? Whenever I find a taupe boot, I feel like I hit the jackpot.

For all of my Chicago ladies, Fashion to Figure just made its debuted in three new Chicago locations. You can shop the brand in store Downtown at New York & Company (107 S STATE ST, CHICAGO, IL 60603), North Riverside (7501 W CERMAK RD NORTH RIVERSIDE, IL 605462812), and at the Chicago Ridge Mall (640 CHICAGO RIDGE MALL CHICAGO, IL 604152606).

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 1 in the Valerie Cold Shoulder Dress from Fashion to Figure, which is one size smaller than my usual size, and it fits perfectly. I am wearing a size 9 wide/wide calf in the Sirena Block Heel Boot from Just Fab, which is my usual size, and the boots fit perfectly. My calf circumference is 19”.

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Fashion to Figure sent me this look. All opinions are 110% my own.

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Plus Size Dresses

If Looks Could Kill

Whenever I am feeling insecure, blah, or lack luster, I put on an all black look. Why? Well, an all black ensemble looks sleek and polished—even if it’s yoga pants, a black hoodie, and a cropped leather jacket. And when I look chic and polished, I feel vibrant.

Now, I know this look isn’t a hoodie and yoga pants… sorry to disappoint, but I have something far cuter to show off! This gorgeous black button-down mini dress is simply sexy, and it can be matched and paired with anything. This Push Your Buttons Mini Dress and the Put a Ring On it Faux-Leather Moto Jacket I paired with it is from a newer plus size brand called Soncy. And get this: BOTH of these items are on sale right now! You can also get these items for $15 off when you use the code “nataliecraigxsoncy”. But back to the dress….a lot of plus size dresses are extremely long on my 5’2 figure, so to find an actual mini dress that has a short and flirty fit excites me! I would go for a “mini” fit over a maxi or midi any day—even though I couldn’t wear it to work. A shorter cut just looks better on me, and I love to show off my legs. Anyone with me?

Writing this post has inspired me to photograph my next chic athleisure look, because let’s face it, we all have those days where we don’t want to wear anything but sweatpants. And honestly, if I’m not working or at an event, I’m probably wearing something simple. You down?

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2 in both the Push Your Buttons Mini Dress and the Put a Ring On it Faux-Leather Moto Jacket, which is my usual size, and while both of the items fit, they are a little tight, and I probably could have sized up in them. I must say, the quality of both of these pieces is great!

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Chicago fashion blogger, Chicago plus size fashion blogger, natalie Craig, natalie in the city, plus size fashion, Chicago fashion, plus size fashion blogger, eff your beauty standards, fatshion, skorch magazine, Chicago model, plus size model, plus size petite, affordable plus size clothing, embrace your curves, plus model magazine, petite plus size, body positive, soncy, plus size moto faux leather jackets, plus size mini dress, plus size button down dress

Soncy sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Outfit

It’s a Skort?

I feel like I belong in a Kill Bill movie remake…..for some reason. Anyone else getting the vibes? If you follow me on Instagram or YouTube, you will have seen this top a few times. I can’t stop wearing it.

I originally ordered this look from Fashion Nova Curve toward the end of summer. I loved this Cherice Skort, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to wear it for much longer. So I found this Heart Holder One Shoulder Top, which made the outfit a perfect summer send off look. And as I mentioned, I have worn this top so many times! Check out my Plus Size Summer to Fall Clothing Haul on YouTube! I topped off the look with some cute booties from ShoeDazzle.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2x in both the Cherice Skort and the Heart Holder One Shoulder Top, which is my usual size, and they fit perfectly!

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Fashion Nova Curve sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Dresses

Plus Size Sequin Midi Dress

Wooo girl, it’s been pretty cold here. We kind of skipped fall in Chicago, and plunged straight into winter. But I got a package the other day that warmed my heart and spirit. And inside the package, a note read: “Winter doesnt have to mean a wardrobe that is all doom and goood. I hope you love these fun and happy pieces!” Signed: Macy’s. The package included a pastel-colored sequin dress and a baby blue coat. THIS is what dreams are made of!

Naturally, I put both the dress and coat on, despite the rainstorm outside. I felt like magic. I have never owned a baby blue coat like this Cole Haan one, which comes in plus sizes! I think it’s really unique and beautiful. But honestly, I was a little nervous to try it—you know your girl likes to stick to neutral tones, especially when it comes to a staple item like a coat. However, sequins have always had my heart. When I was 18, sequins were everything! I wore sequins almost every day. Yeah, I didn’t have the most refined sense of style back then, but my love for sequins hasn’t gone away. To my surprise, sequins have made a reappearance over the last year. So when I saw this Adrianna Papell dress, I was so thrilled. I got an exclusive sneak peek of this dress so it’s not yet online at Macy’s, but when I get the link, I will post it here, and I will post it on my Instagram (so stay tuned)! But while we wait…I need ideas of where to wear this dress! Because my style is a little more low-key these days, I’m wondering where I can pull this dress off. Let me know in the comment section below, or let’s chat on Instagram! (username: @natalieinthecity_)

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 1X in the Cole Haan Blue Coat, which is a size smaller than my usual size, but I heard it ran a little big. I should have ordered my usual size because while the coat fits, I would like it to be a little looser! I am wearing a size 18W in the Adrianna Papell dress, which is my usual size, but I could have ordered a 16 because I love my dresses to fit tight.

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Macy’s sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Outfit

Plus Size Plaid Mini Skirt

I was going to write a post about how this adorable plaid skirt stopped me dead in my tracks while I was out shopping last weekend, but then, just an hour into me wearing it….the side of the garment ripped open. And what’s worse, I was talking on a panel in front of dozens of women when it happened. Yeah, it was a true fashion crisis. But, I held my head up high, and I sucked in (lol).

So instead of writing about the skirt—that I got from Forever21—let me tell you where I wore the skirt! On Tuesday night, I was on a panel called Digital Girl in a Digital World, hosted by Bumble Bizz, Cliquish, and Made Maven, with five other incredible boss babes. We shared how we juggle a career, side hustle, social life, and relationships, and some women even discussed how they turned their side hustle into their full time grind. There was an emphasis put on relationships and how we balance our time with important people in our lives while delegating chunks of time to our side hustles and careers. I’ve never really talked about how I handle my friendships and relationships as someone who is always busy with work. So to have the opportunity to reflect and speak on where I am at in my life with relationships was really interesting. I spoke about how supportive my boyfriend was with my blog, and how he is always pushing me to level up… and interestingly enough, the proof is in these outfit photos that my photographer and I shot just two days prior to the panel. While my boyfriend could have been inside watching football on a Sunday, there he was by my side during the shoot with an umbrella in hand as the skies quickly turned dark and cloudy. He was also in attendance at the panel—which was made up of mostly women—just to support me. One of the things I said during the panel that resonated with me the most was when I told the crowd to surround themselves with a tribe of people—whether friends or a significant other—that fully believe in your mission and purpose. You want people in your life that will do everything they can to build and grow with you.

Aside from how the relationship part of the conversation made me reflect on my own, it was a very inspirational and empowering evening. If you are a new blogger or are looking to get engaged in the influencer arena, I highly recommend checking out Cliquish! They have an upcoming blogger workshop and conference called Content Sugar that is extremely beneficial for content creators!

If my experience with the plaid skirt didn’t turn you off, and you still want one, it’s the Plus Size Plaid Mini Skirt from Forever21 Plus! For the look I am wearing in this photo, I topped off the skirt with a white button up shirt and Universal Standard’s Yarra Shrug Sweater in black. For the look I wore to the panel, I paired the skirt with Old Navy’s Slim-Fit Luxe Rib-Knit Sweater—which I am obsessed with and I own them in every color. These sweaters from Old Navy are my go-to for fall. They are lightweight and easy to layer, and the curved hem on the bottom is so flattering for a curvy figure! And of course, it’s not a Natalie look without some over-the-knee boots! I got these boots from Charlotte Russe last year, but here are some similar ones: Over-the-Knee Faux Suede Boots.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 3X in the Plus Size Plaid Mini Skirt from Forever21 Plus, which is a size larger than my usual size, and it fit pretty loose, but the 2x was too small. Regardless, the skirt still burst at the seams. I am wearing a size 2X in my white button up shirt, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly. I am wearing a size medium in Universal Standard’s Yarra Shrug Sweater in black, which is my usual size, and it fits me perfectly!

Outfit photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Event photography by: Andre Jamar Photo

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Plus Size Work Outfit

My Favorite Plus Size Blazer

If I told you I was running for office, would you believe me (having only seen these photos)? Well, I’m not, but I feel like this would be the outfit I’d announce my candidacy in. And before you ask… Yes, a leather skirt is absolutely appropriate for that occasion….at least to me it is (hah). A girl could dream right?

Side note: PLEASE VOTE. I will be voting on November 6, and no matter your political stance or viewpoint, I urge you to exercise your right, and make a difference in this next election. If you don’t know who you would be voting for or if you aren’t familiar with the specific issues your state will have on the ballot, TAKE THIS QUIZ to learn more!

All politics aside (you can breathe now), you know I have a new obsession when it comes to plus size brands right? If you are scratching your head, all I have to say is, “GIRL! Where have you been?!” In two recent posts: FASHION-FORWARD PLUS SIZE WORK WEAR and AN UNSTOPPABLE JUMPSUIT I have proclaimed my love and adoration for Marée Pour Toi, the newest plus size brand on the block. The fit is on point, the styles are on trend, and I can wear almost everything to work. It’s a win-win-win. If you haven’t heard of Marée Pour Toi, it made its entry into the plus size fashion world via CurvyCon in New York this past September. This look I am sporting is entirely from the brand, and similarly to the other pieces I have tried from Marée Pour Toi, I’m in love. Let’s start with the Navy Blazer! I feel like I have been looking for a blazer that was a tad oversized since Kim Kardashian started wearing them in like 2010…anyone else with me? Well, I finally found it! Not only is the blazer versatile, but it has the best pockets ever. I wore this blazer to a four day trade show, and I didn’t have to carry a heavy purse or anything! The pockets fit a small notepad, my phone, business cards, and a bunch of other things. Under the blazer I am wearing the Polka-Dot Twofer Sweater, which isn’t typically something I would wear just because I don’t love polka dots and it is sort of loose fitting, but I found a way to make it work by tucking it in to the Pleather Pleated Skirt for a more fitted and flattering look! And I must say, I love the way the polka dots peek out in this look. But back to the skirt: I am a sucker for a sexy, well-fitted skirt. I have worn this skirt with a button up blouse and a sweater, and I plan to pair it with plenty of other things in my closet. I love the cut of it, and it’s insulated inside to keep me warm during the chilly winter.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in the Polka-Dot Twofer Sweater, Pleather Pleated Skirt,
and the Navy Blazer, which is my usual size, and everything fits perfectly!

Mareé Pour Toi sent me this look to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Work Outfit

Work & Play

I have been dying to get my hands on one of these crazy button down shirts for a couple of years now. You know what I’m talking about, right? There are many variations of the style, but I have been loving the twists brands have been putting on the button down shirt. Eloquii was a brand that I thought had a few great tops incorporating this trend, but every time I tried one on, I was pretty disappointed because I felt like they never looked good on me.

And then I found the Sleeve it Be Shirt from Soncy, and I can finally say that I have found the button down shirt of my dreams…watch the trend go out of style tomorrow. HAH (my luck). I love the off-the-shoulder neckline because it gives the button down a sexy touch. Since I’ve gotten this blouse, I have worn it to blogging events and also to a Chicago Fashion Week Mixer, and it was definitely a hit! I paired this look with some tuxedo stripe jeans from Cello, but here is an alternative pair that is almost identical: Hi-Rise Plus Size Power Jean. I have also worn this top with a leather skirt, and it was super cute! If you know me, then you know I love clothing that is versatile! I like to make my clothes work double time!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2 in the Sleeve it Be Shirt, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly! The Cello jeans I am wearing are no longer available online, but I ordered a size 16, which is my usual size, and the jeans were too small.

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Soncy sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Dresses

A Glam Autumn

I don’t have to tell you how fall is my favorite time of the year because you probably already know that, it’s also your favorite season, and you are most likely tired of every single fashion blogger out there talking about all things fall. So I’m going to keep it short and sweet: burgundy, stripes, and glitter. period.

While this look could definitely work for a holiday party or something more festive this season, I love it as an everyday piece, too. I love the sheerness of the She’s A Mesh Top from Fashion Nova Curve, and I have been pondering different things I could wear under it aside from the black body con dress you see in this outfit. The ruffles and hi-lo fit also make this piece chic and playful, which is just my style. I wanted to add a final touch of sparkle and shine to my look with the Cindy Cardigan in Bronze, which is also from Fashion Nova Curve! I wear a lot of cardigans during this season, but I didn’t have one that sparkled quite this much.

Want to see this look in action? Watch my Fashion Nova Curve Haul on YouTube: PLUS SIZE SUMMER TO FALL CLOTHING HAUL

If you love this Fashion Nova look, you could get 15% off with the code NATCITY at check out!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in both the She’s A Mesh Top and the Cindy Cardigan in Bronze, which is my usual size, and they both fit perfectly! I know the dress is advertised as a top, but it’s pretty long—even on someone taller.

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Fashion Nova sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Jumpsuit

An Unstoppable Jumpsuit

I can do anything…as long as I’m wearing this jumpsuit. No joke, I transform when I wear this piece. I’m happy, confident, and I’m even patient—which is hard for me. For those of you who have been following my blog for a while, you know how much I rely on clothing and fashion to channel confidence in the workplace, at blog events, and in my day-to-day life. And I’m ecstatic to add another piece to my wardrobe that I know will put me on cloud 9. It’s almost like magic, and isn’t it funny that this jumpsuit is named just that?

The Magic Jumpsuit is from Marée Pour Toi, which I introduced to you all last week on the blog with this cute stripe pants and silk charmeuse blouse duo! Similarly to the stripe pants, I feared that I would have to get this jumpsuit hemmed because I am very short (5’2 to be exact), and I usually always have to get jumpsuits or pants altered as they are too long. However, I was stunned when I got the jumpsuit and those striped pants in the mail and found that they fit me perfectly. I think I may have shed a tear, because this usually never happens to me. I always get insecure when I am super excited about a certain piece of clothing, and I get it and it’s too long, too tight, too loose, and just doesn’t fit right. Because the fit was so on point, Marée Pour Toi has become my go-to for work wear. I’ve created so many looks from the brand’s fashion-forward, work appropriate clothing line that I cannot wait to show you.

I want to give you all that same feeling of satisfaction, because we all deserve to feel like something was made for us! So with that being said, I am hosting a giveaway with Marée Pour Toi! I will be choosing one winner on Saturday, October 20. Here is how to enter:
1. Fill out this form: ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.
2. Follow Marée Pour Toi on Instagram here: INSTAGRAM

If you haven’t heard of Marée Pour Toi, it made its entry into the plus size fashion world via CurvyCon in New York this past September. You can also learn more about the brand here: FASHION-FORWARD PLUS SIZE WORK WEAR

Wondering where I took these cool photos? I recently visited the wndr museum, which is Chicago’s new art & science pop up experience, and I had a blast! Not only do each of the rooms provide an Instagram worthy photo opportunity, but they truly immerse you in the wonders of the world. The next block of tickets will be released this week. So if you want to attend the museum, you should sign up for the newsletter to get 24-hour advanced access to the upcoming four-week block of tickets. Updates are also shared on their Instagram @wndrmuseum.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in The Magic Jumpsuit, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly!

Marée Pour Toi sent me this jumpsuit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Plus Size Outfit

Plus Size Suede Coat

I’ve been dying to wear this suede jacket since I got it last month in preparation for fall, but Chicago has been in between 50° and 82° for the last couple of weeks. I was wishing for fall so hard, and well, Chicago must have been listening to me because we plummeted straight into winter. But hey, I’ve never been one to turn down a challenge.

So nonetheless, this weekend, I proudly put on this Alyssa Suede Jacket and paired it with this long sleeve Dolman Daze Mini Dress in Khaki, and not only was I looking chic and cute, but I was so warm. Challenge accepted—and conquered. The suede jacket also comes in Camel, and the mini dress comes in a variety of colors I love it so much! These pieces are both staples for me this fall and winter because they can be paired with virtually anything, and they were extremely warm. I wore this outfit to the grand opening of Trunk Club‘s newly renovated clubhouse (scroll down to see a cute picture of me and my man *insert heart eyes*). It was a chilly night, coming in at around 37° with wind chill. The suede coat was thick and heavy duty, and paired with this long sleeve dress, I felt warm all night, but I didn’t feel too hot while we were inside. You’ll definitely see me sporting this around the city more than once this season. If you love this look, you can get it for 15% off with the code “NATCITY.”

Now, let’s talk about these boots! I have always struggled to find boots that fit over my calves. For reference, my calf circumference is about 19 inches. But I have given a lot of brands a try when it comes to their “wide calf boots.” The ones I am wearing in this look are the Sirena Block Heel Boots in Taupe from Just Fab! I was skeptical at first because the boots aren’t made of a stretchy material, but I was able to get them over my calves, and as you can see, they are super cute. They are a little tight, though. So if your calf is wider than 19 inches, I would suggest a different boot.

Want to see this look in action? Watch my Fashion Nova Curve Haul on YouTube: PLUS SIZE SUMMER TO FALL CLOTHING HAUL

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 3X in the Alyssa Suede Jacket, which is one size larger than my usual size, and it fits well, but the sleeves are a little long. I sized up because I didn’t know if the jacket would be too tight. However, I think the jacket runs true to size! I am wearing a size @X in the Dolman Daze Mini Dress in Khaki, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly! I am wearing a size 9 wide and wide calf in the Sirena Block Heel Boots in Taupe, which is my usual size, and the boots fit perfectly.

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

Fashion Nova sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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Beauty

My Self Care Routine

As a girl who is constantly on the go, I’ve had work hard to remind myself to stop, take a break, and relax. I guess you could say that I’ve developed a “self care” routine. You see, a couple of years ago, I didn’t know “self care” existed. I would go, go, go, and eventually I would get sick or become exhausted and stay in bed for a week recovering. That was my idea of “self care.”

But I’ve realized that I need to have more preventative self care, which means I take little moments to indulge in the things that make me feel strong, beautiful, and loved (by myself) so that I can power through meetings, work, blog things and anything else that comes my way during the week. My go-to self care routine allows me to also catch up on emails or my favorite show while I do it. I love to put on Origins Original Skin Retexturing Mask with Rose Clay because my skin becomes lackluster at the end of the week due to makeup, Chicago weather elements, and the gym. My skin is also in dire need of moisture because Chicago in the fall can be dry, cold, and very windy. So after I take off the Origins mask, I follow up with Clinique’s Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator. The gel keeps my skin hydrated for 72 hours! Now that’s self care.

Because you all know how big of a role fashion plays in my mood (LINK TO I PINK I CAN BLOG POST), self care time also prioritizes a comfortable, but cute outfit to make me feel cozy and calm. I’ve been sporting this Hannah Breast Cancer Awareness Beehive Robe, which supports a great cause as a portion of the net proceeds from the robe will be donated to breast cancer research. I got the robe from Stage Stores, which also happens to be my go-to destination for all of my beauty and skincare needs, especially this month.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Stage is turning October into Pink October to celebrate everything “her.” Throughout the month, Stage will be hosting activations in-store and online with “Pinktastic” deals on beauty and fashion brands! The Beauty Bash will run from October 10-23 with with 14 Days of Party Favors, including offers on great brands like like Philosophy, Clinique, Elizabeth Arden, and more!

You can join the party online and in store! Find a Stage Stores location near you: Find my store!

Thank you to Stage Stores for sponsoring this post. I am a huge proponent of brands that promote inclusivity and make high-quality, well-fitting clothing. All opinions expressed in this post are 110% my own! Thank you for continuing to support the brands that make Natalie in the City a possibility!

Photography by: Rorie Raimondi

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Plus Size Work Outfit

Fashion-Forward Plus Size Workwear

I am constantly on the hunt for fashion-forward, well fitting, and comfortable clothing that I can wear to work. Sure, my go to black top, black blazer, and black pants never fails, but sometimes, I want to switch it up and sport a bold look into the office. But here is where I run into issues: A lot of plus size clothing is made for tall, plus size women. Everything I find from blazers to pants runs long on me, which means I either have to get things altered, roll up sleeves or pant ankles, or get creative with how I style the pieces.

I recently got word of a new plus size brand that was making its debut, and what did it specialize in: work wear! I figured I would run into the same problems I did with other workwear when it came to sizing. But when I got my first package—which included jumpsuits, skirts, pants, blazers, and blouses—I was astounded. Not only did the pants and jumpsuits fit me absolutely perfectly, but I didn’t have to get them altered. This has never happened.

You’re probably dying to know which brand I’m talking about by now. Marée Pour Toi made its entry into the plus size fashion world via CurvyCon in New York this past September. And I’m so happy to share the first look I’ve created from the brand’s fashion-forward, work appropriate clothing line. I had two thoughts when I saw these stripe pants: “OMG. I have nothing like these in my closet.” and “OMG….these will be too long.” However, I ordered them anyway—I couldn’t resist. I wanted to pair it with a simple blouse as the pants were already loud by themselves—and I knew my coworkers would already think I was crazy for sporting the pants into the office. So I chose this beautiful Washed Silk Charmeuse Poet Blouse, and it didn’t disappoint. Not only does the blouse feel like a dream, but it looks like one, too.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in The Stripe Pants and the Washed Silk Charmeuse Poet Blouse, which is my usual size, and they both fit perfectly. I cannot rave enough about the fit of Maree Pour Toi clothing. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced when it comes to sizing.

Photography by: Denise Kokinis

Maree Pour Toi sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!

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