Rihanna is an icon. Okay…my post is over. That’s all that needs to be said, right? Obviously, when I found out that Rihanna started Savage X Fenty plus size lingerie, I knew I had to try it.
You all know that I am no stranger to wearing lingerie around my apartment for a little confidence boost. So why not add some more pieces to my wardrobe? Savage x Fenty runs pretty true to size—in my opinion—and goes up to a size 3X and 46 H (in some styles).
My review of Savage X Fenty’s Lingerie
The panties fit me so well, and the details on the back were super sexy. There was a circular cut out just above the but and the back of the panties were made out of see-through mesh.
This set came with a garter belt, which is entirely new to me. So I was intrigued to see just how this garter situation would work. The garter belt clasps together at the side like a bra does in the back, but I had to slide it over my head and onto my body because clasping it while it was around my waist was a challenge. Once it was on, it was cute, but I am not sure that I will wear it much.
Minus the garter belt, I felt like this set was playing it a little safe for what Savage x Fenty is known for. So next time, I’ll try to embrace something vibrant and fun!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in both the panties and garter belt, which is my usual size, and the panties fit perfectly. I would definitely size up on the garter belt as I felt that it kept rolling up in certain areas because my midsection is a little larger. I am wearing a size 42C in the bra, which is my usual size, and the fit was spot on!
Plus Size Faux Leather Midi Dress
I am not sure what it is about faux leather, but I love this material so much. I have faux leather pants, skirts, dresses, and more. The way the material clings to my curves and highlights my figure is something that no other material can do. And this plus size faux leather midi dress is no exception.
My latest obsession is this plus size faux leather midi dress from Fashion Nova Curve. I wore this dress for a couple of hours while I worked from home on one of my dress up days, and I felt so sexy! Because of the material, the garment does retain heat…so I did overheat a bit.
This is a dress I will definitely wear out to the club in the winter. But aside from it being a rather hot garment, I love the way it fits me. I pulled up the dress a little bit to make it more of a mini fit, but it’s actually supposed to be a midi dress. So I am wondering if I could pull this off at work? Too sexy? Maybe.
If you want to score my look, you can get it 20% off by using the code “NATINTHECITY” at checkout!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in the midi dress, which is my usual size, and the dress fits me perfectly!
Plus Size Snakeskin Midi Skirt
Get Glam and Chill?
Since I’ve been confined to my apartment for the past couple of months, I’ve been looking for ways to remain confident. I rely heavily on clothing to boost my self-esteem, but since I’ve only been getting dressed in actual clothes once or twice a week, my confidence started to fade away. Sure, it’s every girl’s dream to be able to stay in plus size sweatpants all day while not having to wear a bra. But it’s more damaging when you’re actually living that life compared to just daydreaming about it.
As quarantine dragged on, I began investing in new plus size loungewear and cute sweatpants that were comfortable, but still made me feel beautiful. Then, I came across this Drawstring Satin Pant and Duster With Fringe set from plus size retailer Eloquii. I saw it on their Instagram as soon as they posted their new arrivals, and I swiped up and bought it on the spot. At first, I envisioned it being a cute summer look that I could throw on to instantly feel confident and radiant. But when it arrived, the chances of having a summer outdoors were looking slim to none as stay-at-home orders in Illinois were extended month after month.
So, I started to wear the outfit around the house, and it’s turned into one of my favorite loungewear sets. Trust me, when I first tried on the set, buyers remorse instantly fell over me. I couldn’t fathom having spent more than $150 on something I wouldn’t even be able to wear out for months to come. But the reality of it all was that the set looked good and felt even better. It brought me joy, and that’s exactly what I needed at that time. Instead of giving in to the remorse, I felt, I challenged myself to keep it and wear it as often as possible. And when the day finally comes where I can wear it outside, I’ll definitely be doing that as well! Oh, I also made a TikTok with this outfit! CHECK IT OUT!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in both the kimono and the pants, which is my usual size, and they both fit well. The pants are a little tight in the waist, but they still fit everywhere else. These pants were meant to be ankle pants for women who are taller, but on my 5’2 frame, they fit me perfectly without dragging!
Plus Size Lace Pajamas to Lounge In
If this quarantine has taught me anything, it would be the importance of having loungewear or pajamas that make you feel vibrant. Usually, when I get home from a long day, my hair goes up in a bun and I slide on the baggiest sweat pants and T-shirt I can find. These outfits usually weren’t cute, which was fine because I looked cute all day and I only wore these fits up until I went to bed. But when I started living in these outfits all day because I was working from home during this pandemic, my confidence tanked. I rarely ever felt beautiful or radiant. Instead, I felt like a lazy blob.
So earlier on during the pandemic, I started hunting for plus size loungewear that wasn’t baggy sweats. I found this beautiful plus size lace pajamas from Adore Me Lingerie, among many other new loungewear pieces that make me feel confident. I love how dainty and sexy this set is, while also being very comfortable. I noticed very quickly that my confidence took a full 180 when I wore my new loungewear.
Ive been obsessed with Adore Me lately! From their lingerie to their ready-to-wear line, this brand has become my new favorite!
The COVID-19 pandemic is new territory for EVERYONE. We are all navigating these times as best as we can while learning new things about ourselves. It’s okay to have a hard time, be sad, feel unmotivated, and have swirling insecurities. Trust me, my anxiety, sensitivities, doubts, and insecurities have been so loud it’s hard to tune out some days. But I am trying to infuse little moments of joy into my days like going to therapy, hanging out with my parrot Rico, and Face Timing my friends. And sometimes, the littlest things like getting dressed in a cute outfit and doing my hair and makeup make a huge difference in my mood and self-esteem.
If you ever need someone to talk to, I’m always here! You can reach out via Instagram or email.
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 3X, which is one size larger than my usual size, and the outfit fits, but it’s a little bigger than I’d like. I ordered a 3X because the 2X was out of stock in my size and I had to have it!
Adore Me sent me this look to review, all opinions are my own!
Review: Nasty Gal Plus Size Clothing
When a follower and friend reached out to me on Instagram and told me I should try shopping Nasty Gal’s plus size clothing, I was surprised to learn that the brand carried clothing for plus size women. And I’m not sure how I didn’t know…given that I absolutely worship Sophia Amoruso, the founder of Nasty Gal.
Does Nasty Gal have plus sizes?
I went straight to the Nasty Gal plus size clothing section hoping that I would stumble upon a gold mine of cute plus size clothing. Upon my first couple of scrolls, I was intrigued. I instantly saw pieces that I loved including this From New Button plus size skirt and this Never Stop Wandering plus size graphic tee, which is sadly out of stock! At first glance, I really loved the laid-back, but the chic vibe of the collection. However, I felt like there weren’t many options.
The plus size section only had 150 pieces, whereas the straight-size section had more than 500 garments. Aside from the slim pickings, I will say that the price point was perfect for me and my budget. I ended up getting this whole outfit for less than $30—with shipping included—during a sale. I was a little nervous to order this skirt because I noticed it was a non-stretch fabric.
What is Nasty Gal sizing like?
My usual rule when shopping online is to size up if it’s not stretchy or stay away from it at all costs. However, I decided to take a chance on the skirt and order my usual size. Besides, you all know I cannot resist a plus size mini skirt. When I got the clothes in the mail, I instantly tried on the skirt to see if it would fit. To my surprise, it was actually a little loose in the waist. The material was much thinner than I thought it would be, which I think helped the fit be so spot on. The T-shirt fits perfectly, as expected.
All in all, I am very happy with this look. I think the skirt is super cute and it could be paired with almost any kind of top. The T-shirt is my favorite, and I can’t wait to wear it with jeans and everything in between. I really hope that Nasty Gal continues to add to its plus size selection because I feel like the brand has a unique style and perspective to offer the plus size community that it hasn’t already seen!
If there is a brand that you would like for me to test out, feel free to reach out to me via email or on Instagram! I am always open to suggestions.
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18, which is my usual size, and the skirt fits perfectly. The skirt isn’t stretchy, but it fit me pretty well. I am wearing a size 18 in the T-shirt, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly!
Are We Still Wearing Plus Size Jeans?
When you wear sweatpants 24/7 for three months straight, the thought of putting on jeans is frightening. Not only did I wonder if my favorite jeans would still fit, but I also wondered if I would ever be able to go back to wearing jeans. However, since I have made the pledge to dress up and do my makeup at least once a week, I decided that I would wear jeans for my next dress-up day.
And when that day came, I kind of cheated. Instead of pulling out any old pair of jeans from my drawer, I ran for my favorite Classic Mid Rise Skinny Jeans from Fashion Nova Curve. Why is this cheating? Well, because Fashion Nova jeans are so stretchy that they are practically leggings. I paired the denim with my favorite Fashion Nova KiKi Cropped Top—if we are being honest, I own these cropped tops in every color—and a lightweight Business Casual Coat for a relaxed but chic look. So how did I feel about wearing jeans all day? Surprisingly, I felt really good. The jeans mixed with the crop top made me feel sexy, actually. And because the jeans are so comfortable, I felt blissful all day!
If you want to score my look, you can get it 20% off by using the code “NATINTHECITY” at checkout!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 1X in the jeans, which is one size smaller than my usual size, and the jeans fit perfectly. I usually size down because these jeans are so stretchy and I want a snug fit. I am wearing a size 3X in the Business Casual Coat, which is one size larger than my usual size, and it fits perfectly. I sized up because I was afraid the arms would be tight, and I was right. I am wearing a size 2X in the KiKi Cropped Top, which is my usual size, and the top fits perfectly!
Plus Size Dresses from ModCloth
Now this is a floral print I can get with. If you frequently scroll through the pages of Natalie in the City, you will know that I am not a fan of floral print. Now, I have contradicted that statement here and there and I have made some exceptions, but rarely ever do those exceptions make me change my mind. However, this plus size dress from Modcloth may have won me over.
There is a type of floral print that always does pull me in, though. Trendy plus size tropical prints are usually a more modern and aesthetically-pleasing look—in my opinion—and I usually have no problem wearing them.
When I took a sneak peek at Hutch, a new clothing line at ModCloth, this plus size dress immediately pulled me in. I fell in love with the colors because they were muted and while the dress felt girly, it didn’t feel like it was too far of a reach from my typical style. I also love the large tropical prints that can appear abstract from far away. Another really cute detail is how the dress fastens together at the shoulders. You have the option to tie the dress in a bow or in a knot, whichever feels better to you. But I like that I could customize the fit, and I thought it was a very cute touch. The fit and flare silhouette is one that I have a lot of in my closet because it’s really flattering and it also makes you want to twirl around all day.
I know this may be hard to believe, but as a plus size individual, I’ve never ordered from ModCloth before. So, I followed the sizing guide really closely. I was able to order my usual size—an 18—and I feel like the dress fit me perfectly. There really isn’t any stretch, but it was easy to pull on even without unzipping. This dress is also fully lined, which was a nice touch. I typically like dresses that aren’t lined because I don’t like garments to feel too bulky, but the lining wasn’t too thick, and I didn’t mind it. I could totally see myself wearing this dress to brunch or any other occasion that calls for something chic and fun.
The new Hutch X ModCloth collection is absolutely stunning. It boasts so many bold and beautiful prints and patterns, and it comes in sizes 0-26. I’ve included most of the pieces from the collection in the shop widget below—including my dress—for your scrolling pleasure!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18, which is my usual size, and the dress fits perfectly. The dress does not have stretch, and it is fully lined, but I was able to get it on with ease and without unzipping it in the back.
A Jumpsuit I Can Work and Sleep In
No…I’m not joking.
When I saw this beautiful striped jumpsuit on Chic Soul’s website, I couldn’t help myself. For one, I love stripes—especially when there is a great deal of contrast between the colors, thickness, and direction of the stripes. And two, I love a good plus size tie waist jumpsuit. But what I didn’t expect was for The Lovely Dreamer Jumpsuit to be so comfortable. It’s literally made out of the softest material so it stretches to hug every curve just right and I don’t have to zip or clasp it in the back—it just slides right on. I could live in this jumpsuit all day. It’s been added to my work from home, but make it fashion wardrobe!
You all know how much I love Chic Soul, and that’s totally something we have in common—among many other things. So today, I am happy to share that when you order from Chic Soul today and use the code “goodvibes,” you’ll get free shipping and a free beautiful floral kimono! Check mine out below! These kimonos are so cute and they pair well with pretty much anything. They can also add a chic touch to any work from home look you may be sporting. I paired my beautiful yellow floral kimono with another one of Chic Soul’s plus size striped jumpsuits, which is also extremely stretchy. This jumpsuit does zip in the back, but the material is thick and has a lot of stretch in it.
Happy shopping!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in both of the jumpsuits, which is my usual size and they both fit perfectly. The Lovely Dreamer Jumpsuit does have a plunging neckline that can dip very low. If this makes you uncomfortable, use some fashion tape or a safety pin to close the front. Or you can tie the straps together behind your neck to create a tighter, higher neckline.
Chic Soul sent me these looks to review! All opinions are my own!
A Walk on the Wild Side
These days, anything wild will have to come in the form of a bold print or outfit, because I haven’t left my apartment in more than a month—other than to go to the grocery store.
I threw on this Charmed Leo Mini Dress from Common Assembly one day to film a TikTok—because that’s what quarantine will do to you…lol. I ended up staying in the dress all day because it felt good to walk past the mirror every once and a while and see myself in an unfamiliar state: dressed. I’ve said it before and I will say it again, getting dressed up during quarantine every once in a while can be extremely beneficial. I am much more confident and productive when I wear an outfit I love. If your confidence is tanking, but you don’t feel like getting dressed up, maybe search for a casual fit or pair of yoga pants that you always feel really good in.
Being isolated and quarantined has not been easy, but I know that I am helping others by staying inside. Trust me, I have bad days where I never change out of baggy T-shirts—or even put on clothes —and don’t brush my teeth until 10 pm. And while you may look at my Instagram or my blog and think that I look like this every day, I just want you to know that I don’t. I give myself one day a week to put on something nice and do my hair and makeup. The other six days, I take hour by hour, minute by minute. I honor my feelings—good and bad—and I go about my day. I guess what I am trying to say is that wherever you are at mentally, spiritually, and physically on your quarantine journey, that’s perfectly fine. Don’t be too hard on yourself for not wanting to be productive, not wanting to change out of PJs, or letting the kitchen get messy. If you’re feeling weird, scared, and tired, you’re not alone. Listen to your body and honor what it needs! On this day, my body needed fashion. Today, it needed a break. And tomorrow…we will see how I feel when I wake up.
I love you all! Stay safe and healthy and hang in there. My Instagram DMs and email are always open for you to reach out to if you want to talk for any reason at all!
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X, which is my usual size, and the dress fits perfectly!
Common Assembly sent me this outfit to review. All opinions are my own!
How I Style Petite Plus Size Loungewear
Let’s be honest, most days during this quarantine, I have been in sweatpants, pajamas, or naked. I really only pick one day a week—two if I seriously need it—to get dressed up. And I realized quickly that staying in sweatpants and plus size loungewear all day was not going to help me build confidence. However, there is no way I am getting dressed up every day….especially because I have to deal with Rico, my pet parrot. Rico loves to sit on my head and groom/ruin my hair, fling fruit on me, and sometimes, poop on my clothes. So, having to be home with him all day makes a lazy outfit that I don’t care about getting dirty more practical than anything.
So I decided to enhance my sweatpants/lazy day outfit game and try out some of Pretty Little Thing‘s lounge wear. I fell in love with the combination of black plus size sweatpants paired with an off the shoulder sweater because while it’s so cozy and comfortable, it’s also sleek and beautiful. I can feel like I am in pajamas all day while also feeling polished and confident. One thing that I really hate about sweatpants is how thick and warm they are. While it’s preferred to stay warm in the winter, thick sweatpants make me feel sweaty and gross—TMI? Something that was interesting about these plus size joggers was that they were actually made with pretty thin material so I felt fresh and fierce all day long.
I hope you all are hanging in there. I know this is a scary and unsettling time for everyone. I am always available to talk if you need a shoulder to lean on or would just like to make a new friend! Reach out to me on Instagram or visit my contact page to learn how you can reach me! XO
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in both the joggers and the sweater, which is my usual size, and both of the garments fit perfectly. The joggers were roomy, and I feel like I could have ordered a size 16 instead if I wanted a tighter fit.
Pretty Little Thing sent me this clothing to review. All opinions are my own!
Best Non-Toxic, Non-Stick Bird Safe Cookware
UPDATE: I have been using non-toxic non-stick bird safe Cookware from Caraway pots for more than two years now, and my Caraway Cookware Review still stands: these pots and pans are everything! 04/10/22
This post contains affiliate links, which I can earn a small commission on when you purchase items (at no extra cost to you). Learn more about affiliates here!
My search for non-toxic non-stick bird safe cookware
When I got my green cheek conure, Rico, last July, I had no idea how much my life would change. I spent a year preparing to own a small parrot, researching anything and everything I could about being a parront (parrot parent). I knew there were going to be big lifestyle changes that I had to make to ensure my parrot would live a happy and healthy lifestyle.
Like many people, I love to cook. I enjoy all aspects of preparing a meal from prepping ingredients to eating the finished product. As much as I was in the kitchen, the type of cookware I was using never really dawned on me. As long as my food didn’t stick to the pan, I was happy. But when I brought Rico into my life, I had to throw away all of my non-stick cookware.
Why is non-stick cookware toxic to birds?
Non-stick cookware releases a colorless, odorless gaseous toxin and can kill birds within 24 hours…if not sooner. This is because a bird’s respiratory system is vastly different from a human’s, and their system of “lung sacs” does not filter out toxins and smoke the way our lungs do. This makes a bird extremely vulnerable and sensitive to any kind of scent, smoke, or airborne toxins.
Most non-stick cookware is made with chemicals like Teflon, more specifically PTFE and PFOA, which are the colorless and odorless toxins released into the air as the pan is heated up. And you’re probably thinking—as did I—if this could kill my bird in minutes, could it eventually harm me? And the answer is yes. Chemicals like PTFE and PFOA can cause sickness in humans, and these chemicals take up to 10 years to fully leave our bodies.
What about stainless steel pots and pans?
While I loved the convenience of cooking with non-stick cookware, I loved Rico way more. So I had to switch my cookware out with stainless steel pots and pans. Stainless steel and cast iron skillets are some of the most popular alternative cookware options that didn’t contain harmless chemicals. There are ways you can make stainless steel cookware non-stick, but it required a lot of maintenance and time. Cast iron skillets are also a great alternative, but I never really enjoyed cooking with them and found them hard to maintain. I noticed that my excitement to cook began to fade away.
The Caraway pans saved the day
But I recently discovered Caraway’s non-stick, non-toxic cookware. The pots and pans were being championed by health-conscious moms for not only being PTFE-free, but also being free of PFOA, PFA, lead, cadmium, nickel, and other commonly-used toxic metals. And the cookware isn’t made with any form of hard anodization. The pans use a mineral-based ceramic coating for a naturally non-stick surface, which got me wondering if these pans were bird-safe.
With a little extra research and confirmation from my avian vet, I determined that the Caraway Cookware Set was parrot safe and completely non-toxic (check out the “free of” section under the product). In addition, the cookware was incredibly stylish, and the thoughtful design transcended beyond the pans and lids to the storage. These pots and pans come in a set, but you can also purchase them individually! A complete Caraway Cookware Set costs $395, but here is the breakdown cost for each piece:
– Fry Pan: $95
– Sauté Pan: $135
– Sauce Pan: $105
– Dutch Oven: $125
I have been using Caraway for years, and I’ve found my joy in cooking again. I have also reduced my overall anxiety around my bird’s respiratory health. Not only are the pans super easy to clean, but the pan and lid storage system is incredibly practical—and very chic. These are the kind of pans that you can free-hand flip an egg in. The non-stick qualities are incredible, and the ceramic evenly cooks any kind of food. Although these pans are safe for use, it’s important to remember that no matter what pan you are using, if you burn food, it can become a hazard to your bird. So always remember to cook on low heat!
SHOP CARAWAY BAKEWEAR
If you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment below! Caraway is also very responsive on their Instagram platform if you have questions for them!
