Fair Trade Sustainable Plus Size Dresses

I recently spoke on a panel about Size-Inclusivity in Fashion, hosted by the Chicago Fashion Incubator, and it really made me start thinking not only about how far plus size fashion has come over the past decade, but how far it needs to come. When the panel was opened up to the audience for questions, much interest was paid toward sustainable, fair trade, and socially-conscious clothing like sustainable plus size dresses.

As a plus-size consumer, I am just now being able to shop anywhere I want—kind of—but I miss out on opportunities to embrace the more forward aspects of fashion like sustainably-made, ethical styles. Fast fashion has wreaked havoc on our environment, but for plus size women, sometimes the only affordable and accessible styles come from fast fashion brands.

After the panel, I spoke with someone who worked for a local, sustainable clothing brand called Mata Traders, which aims to ‘fashion a better world.’ The brand aligns with fair trade practices to make an impact on global poverty, which helps bring fair wages to artisans in India and Nepal. I recently decided to try out a couple of dresses from the brand to get my first glimpse at sustainable plus size fashion. I was pleasantly surprised at the accuracy of the fit, as well as the comfort of the fabric. My favorite dresses by far were the Midtown Plus Size Dress and the Ana Wrap Dress. I love the versatility of the Montrose dress and the fabric was so soft and stretchy. I’m so happy to explore the world of sustainable fashion, and I hope there are more plus-size sustainable clothing brands to sprout in the coming years.

I am on week four of quarantine, and I am doing okay! I really just want to get back to normal life, but other than that, I am doing fine. I hope you all are staying safe and healthy! My email and Instagram DMs are always open if you ever need to talk!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 1X in both dresses, which is a size 18-20 at Mata Traders. This is my usual size, and both of the dresses fit perfectly. They both have a tie feature so they allow you to contour the dress to fit your curves perfectly.

Mata Traders sent me these dresses to review. All opinions are my own!

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger,Natalie in the City reviews Mata Traders sustainable ethical dresses.

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Plus Size Dresses

Playing Dress Up

It’s been about three or four weeks since I started practicing social distancing and self-isolating to help flatten the curve of COVID-19. I am very fortunate to be able to work from home, and while I am still balancing the work of my 9-to-5 job and my blog, staying home all day felt like a much-needed pause on life.

This pandemic is truly frightening, and unlike anything most people have experienced in their life, but I do think that the Coronavirus has made us all slow down and appreciate the aspects of life that we took for granted. So, I have actually been enjoying my time in isolation. However, this weekend, it started to get to me. I noticed my confidence and self-esteem tanking. It can be really hard to be alone at all times of the day, especially when you struggle with insecurities, like me. Don’t get me wrong, I am a very confident person, but like everyone, I battle negative thoughts daily—especially when I am not filling my days with things I love or things I am good at.

One of the things I was missing most about day-to-day life was getting dressed. So, I devoted a day this weekend to getting dressed, doing my hair and makeup, and having my own little photoshoot in my apartment (I take my own photos, so don’t worry, no one else was involved in this)! This boosted my confidence through the roof, and I was taking pictures all day. I even made my very first Tik Tok where I show you my transformation from drab to fab!

I recently got a bunch of cute stuff from one of my favorite plus size woman-owned and socially responsible boutiques, Common Assembly! And I was so excited to find a plus size mini dress that actually fit me perfectly. The Penny Proper Black Ruffle Dress is such a versatile piece, and it instantly boosted my confidence when I put it on. The ruffle hem gives the dress a fun and flirty feel, and the subtle polka dots add an element of surprise. I cannot wait to wear this dress out and about. I could easily dress it up for dinner with a pair of strappy heels and a wide-brimmed hat or dress it down with a cardigan. Common Assembly is having a sale on its dresses, and you can get 30% off!

I hope you all are staying safe and healthy! P.S. STAY HOME!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in the Penny Proper Black Ruffle Dress, which is my usual size, and they dress fits perfectly! The material isn’t stretchy, but it runs true to size, and it fits comfortably!

Common Assembly sent me this look to review! All opinions are my own!

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger Natalie in the City reviews Common Assembly.

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Plus Size Outfit

Organza Button Up

I have always loved the effect see-through clothing creates, especially when it drapes over the body or is a bit oversized. Even if it doesn’t hug your curves, it highlights my silhouette in such a special way. My obsession with plus size see-through clothing has lead me to fill my closet with many organza pieces.

My newest addition to the wardrobe is this Plus Size Organza Collared Shirt from Forever 21 Plus. Most of the see-through pieces I have are black, so I wanted to add some color to my rotation. I paired the top with this adorable Plus Size Bodycon Mini Skirt. I snapped this outfit on my rooftop since I am practicing social distancing/self-quarantine to flatten the curve of COVID-19, but this look made me daydream about being somewhere warm like Miami. I love the way the skirt fits me, it’s lightweight and curve-hugging. I can’t wait to pair this shirt with jeans and other looks because it’s so versatile!

I hope you all are staying self and healthy! If you need inspiration during this bleak time, check out my Staying Active During COVID-19 and Plus Size Work From Home Outfits posts!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in both garments, which is my usual size, and they look good and feel good, but I feel like they could both fit better. The shirt is a little tight, so I would size up to a 3X because I would want a looser fit. The skirt is very stretchy, so I would size down to get a more curve-hugging look.

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger, influencer, YouTuber, and model Natalie Craig, of Natalie in the City, reviews Forever21 plus' mini skirts and organza crop tops.

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Plus Size Outfit

Plus Size Kimono

Like many people in the U.S. and other countries around the world, I am working from home until further notice thanks to COVID-19. Many of you know that I also balance a career as a magazine editor and being a blogger, and while I do work from home sometimes, I definitely have never experienced anything like this. I am really holding myself responsible to do my part in flattening the curve of this virus by social distancing and not leaving my apartment.

I don’t think I have ever spent this much time cooped up in my apartment, and it has been really hard on my self-esteem. I feel incredibly thankful to be able to work remotely and live my life as normally as possible at this time, but I have noticed some emotional and spiritual turmoil brewing. This is probably due to the fact that I am alone with my thoughts all day, I am spending more time on social media—which means I am comparing myself to others more often, and I’m rarely ever getting dressed. I rely on clothing to build confidence. However, because I am not really supposed to leave my apartment, I am typically sporting sweats and baggy t-shirts around all day.

But I realized that I didn’t need an event to attend or office to report to in order to dress up and boost my confidence. So I slid on this Plus Size Belted Leopard Kimono, which Forever 21 kindly sent me to review! I love the small and subtle leopard print, and I adore the orange print against the creme-colored fabric. It’s subtle, but it also makes a statement and can liven up any look I pair it with. I have worn this kimono with a pair of jeans and a crop top as well as a beige dress and it’s a stunner in both looks. For this outfit, since I was just lounging around the house, I wore it over my favorite boy shorts and a crop top. Throwing this plus size kimono on totally changed my mood—I even did my hair and put on some makeup.

I thought it would be a waste of energy to get all dolled up just to stay in the house, but it drastically improved my confidence and made me feel refreshed. If you’re stuck in a rut, put on an outfit you’re crazy about—even if it’s to create some fun TikTok dances or just to check yourself out every time you walk past the mirror.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in the Plus Size Belted Leopard Kimono, which is my usual size, and it fits me perfectly! It’s very roomy in the arms, which is usually an area that’s tight on me. If you like a much roomier or oversized fit, you can totally size up, but I think this garment runs true to size.

Forever 21 sent me this kimono to review. All opinions are 110% my own!

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger Natalie in the City reviews Forever 21's kimonos and talks about how to boost confidence.

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Uncategorized

A Simple Sweater and Jeans

Doesn’t this sweater make you think of Neapolitan ice cream? It can’t just be me.

I love the pairing of blush and mocha in the Times Like This Sweater from Chic Soul, and the thick stripes are so bold. For this look, I paired the sweater with a pair of plus size white skinny jeans, but I could have also styled the sweater with a pair of blue jeans or a chic skirt. It’s definitely on the top of my list to mix and match with different things in my closet. The next time you fill up your cart at Chic Soul, use the code NAT15 to save some money!

I don’t really have much to say for this outfit, other than I would like to remind you that you can absolutely wear and look good in stripes! F**k the rules!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 2X in both the Getting Things Done Skinny Jeans and the Times Like This Sweater, which is my usual size, and both garments fit perfectly.

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger Natalie in the City reviews Chic Soul's white skinny jeans and a striped sweater.

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Plus Size Activewear

Is Fabletics Legit?

Is Fabletics legit? I credit Fabletics with my new-found gym confidence. So, I would say, yes! Let me go into more detail…

Up until last year, I only wore all black while working out—whether I went to the gym, took a walk outside, or attended a yoga class. I wanted to make sure that my workout outfits were flattering and allowed me to blend in. I mean, who wants to stand out at the gym anyway? The gym is understandably one of the places where most people feel insecure, so it makes total sense why I would want to wear something that appeared to shrink my body and make me feel confident.

Well, when I started working out with my boyfriend Terry last year, I had a change of heart. I don’t know if it was him constantly gassing me up, or my first time being in a traditional gym setting since I developed a positive body image. But before I knew it, I was red yoga pants and a white crop top—two things I would have never thought I would wear to the gym. I also got a Fabletics VIP membership so that I could keep stocking up on plus size workout shorts! Since then, my gym confidence and outfit adventures have skyrocketed. As you can probably see from these photos, I am now confidently rocking plus size hot pink yoga pants.

Are you wondering, how does Fabletics VIP work? Basically, every month, you will be charged $49.95, which will get you a free Fabletics outfit, but don’t worry, you can skip a month or two if you want or cancel anytime. By being a member, you get exclusive prices and first access to new styles. I have been a member for a couple of months now, and I love being able to pick out a new outfit every month!

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger model Natalie Craig Natalie in the City shares how does Fabletics VIP work

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Life

Newfound Confidence

I have been craving simple, cozy outfits lately. Maybe it’s the weather or the fact that I have been on-the-go nonstop since early January. I just haven’t really been into creating complicated looks. I guess I have always been a jeans and T-shirt kind of girl at heart, and maybe that side of me is starting to show up a bit more. I feel like as I get older, I care less and less about superficial things like makeup….and sometimes, even clothes. It’s crazy to think that I’ve opted for more simple looks when all I’ve ever done is turn to fashion as a way to build confidence and express myself.

But maybe I’ve entered into a new level of confidence, one that doesn’t rely on my looks as much as it used to. Jeans and a T-shirt or an off-the-shoulder sweater will suffice. And sometimes, when I need the extra pick me up or have time to carefully craft an outfit, I’ll go all out. But keeping my style laid back and casual has really given me a new perspective on how my confidence and perception have evolved. Life is ever-changing!

I’m wearing Chic Soul’s Getting Things Done White Skinny Jeans paired with the Way of Life top.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a 2X in both garments, which is my usual size and they both fit perfectly. The sweater is an oversized fit.

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Plus Size Swimwear

My Latest Plus Size Swim Obsession

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger,Natalie in the City searches for sexy, confidence-boosting plus size one pieces two pieces and swimsuits.

Swimsuit season is almost here! Well, actually, it’s already arrived, but since I live in Chicago, I won’t be able to wear them until July. However, I did get to live my best swimsuit life when I went to Costa Rica last month, which gave me a little glimpse of what I can expect this summer. I learned that I needed to fill my swim wardrobe with pieces that were more supportive. But to me, that means I will be sacrificing style and that daring, sexy look I usually like to achieve with my swimwear.

So, just like this time last year, I am on the hunt for curve-hugging plus size swimwear that makes me feel radiant and confident—sans high-waisted diaper bikinis, tankinis, skorts, or overly modest one-pieces. If this is your first blog post, let me explain: Hi, my name is Natalie, and I just want to wear the two pieces that thin girls get to wear. Here is a more in-depth explanation.

The Aerie two pieces I wore in Costa Rica weren’t incredibly supportive, but that’s to be expected because my tummy is larger. However, the plus size metallic gold one-piece from Aerie was so great. I also wore a lace-up swimsuit from Torrid that was incredibly supportive and functional, while also fulfilling my need of being a little sexy.

And recently, I came across this City Chic plus size red ruffle one piece from CoEdition, and it has totally met my needs for style and support. I found a bunch of other really fun plus size swimwear on CoEdition, which has expanded their swimwear section to include many different styles and fits. I’ll be shopping there for swimwear this summer! If you find a swimsuit on CoEdition, use the code: NATALIESWIM20 for 20% off your order!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size M, which is a size 18 at City Chic. This is my usual size, and the swimsuit fits me perfectly!

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Plus Size Jeans

Anthropologie Plus Size Jeans Review

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger Natalie in the City reviews Anthropologie's jeans and denim.

This is such a cool moment for me. I never ever thought that I would be able to shop with my friends (who are thin) at Anthropologie. We used to spend entire Saturdays in the store shopping and lounging—in the Chicago Avenue store’s home section. While my friends would shop, I would just tag along because at the time, Anthropologie didn’t carry plus sizes. However, as you may know, Anthro has expanded its sizing.

Not only am I excited that I can now shop with my friends when we go into Anthropologie, but I am also looking forward to expanding my style with the brand’s eclectic mix of bohemian chic garments.

My first Anthropologie look makes me so happy because everything about this outfit is a step outside of my comfort zone. Recently, I have been embracing trends and styles that I previously wouldn’t have because I was so close-minded when it came to fashion. But now, I am also willingly trying clothing that I used to deem “unflattering.” All of my previous style rules have been pushed to the side, which has allowed me to enjoy fashion on an entirely different level. And this outfit is the perfect example of my style evolution.

Let’s start with the pants. These are boyfriend jeans, and up until recently, jeans that didn’t hug my curves and were loose-fitting were a no for me. But lately, I have been playing with proportions and wearing what I feel good in—regardless of what that looks like. I love the embellishments on these Pilcro High-Rise Embellished Slim Straight Jeans. I rolled them up once for an ankle fit because they were a little long on my 5’2 frame. I paired the jeans with the Martina Textured Blouse and I topped the look off with Jamie Lace-Up Heels and this Marguerite Trimmed Rancher Hat.

See the outfit in action on my Instagram: Pants that make me dance!

SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in both the Martina Textured Blouse and Pilcro High-Rise Embellished Slim Straight Jeans, which is my usual size, and they both fit pretty well. The jeans were a little tight, but they ended up fitting after wearing them for a while.

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Plus Size Outfit

Plus Size Neon Slip Skirt

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger Natalie in the City reviews Eloquii's satin midi slip skirt.

When I posted half of this look on Instagram the day before Valentine’s Day, everyone went nuts over the sweater. So even though Valentine’s Day has passed, I’d like to share this outfit with you all!

I came across this sweater At Gordmans, I wasn’t looking for something like this, but it caught my eye and I had to have it. I didn’t what I was going to wear it with. It was just too cute to pass up so I figured I’d find something to wear with it whether it be jeans, leggings, or this slip skirt.

The sweater had been sitting in my closet for a month, and I hadn’t found anything to wear it with. I got this plus size satin midi skirt from Eloquii, but I never considered it to be a match for this sweater. However, there was one morning—the day before Valentine’s Day—when I woke up wanting to wear the sweater so bad, and I was determined to find a match for it. Now, keep in mind that I wake up at 5 AM to go to work—so it’s completely dark in my apartment other than my lights that are on, which aren’t that great. It just so happened that I had just unboxed this Eloquii skirt and it was laying on the couch. I looked at the skirt and then in the mirror and thought I saw neon green dots on the sweater that matched the skirt. Well, I would later learn—once I got into fluorescent lighting—that the green neon dots were actually yellow. Can you guys tell from looking at the pictures that the yellow and the green are different? It wasn’t the biggest difference, but the colors really didn’t go together.

This look ended up being a super cute one that I hope to wear again. I absolutely adore the sweater and the skirt, and I can’t wait till gets warmer so I can wear the skirt every day. I never thought that I would be a fan of the slip skirt, but it became so popular and I just couldn’t avoid it. Since I first wore this plus size leopard print slip skirt from Common Assembly, I’ve been pretty hooked.

SIZING INFO: I am wearing an XL in the sweater, which is one size down from my usual size, and the sweater still fits perfectly. I am wearing a 18 in the plus size satin midi skirt, which is my usual size, and the skirt fits perfectly.

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Plus Size Outfit

Plus Size Faux Leather Joggers

Breaking news: there is none. I found another pair of plus size faux leather pants to satisfy my craving for the sleek-looking material.

The unexpected part of this situation is that this style is a bit different than the other looks I have created with faux leather. When I think about wearing this material, I usually envision a curve-hugging, skin-tight look. But when I spotted these plus size Pleat Front Faux Leather Ankle Pants at Eloquii, I got the inspiration for a more relaxed outfit. I had also been eyeing this plus size White Cropped Sweater from the brand as well, and I figured I would mix edgy with cozy to create one of my favorite outfits in my closet right now. I have worn this outfit to the movies with my man and also to work, and I think the look fit in perfectly in both occasions. You all know how much I love versatility! I am already thinking about what other things I can style these pieces with. For the pants, I really want to pair them with a tank crop top because I think mixing the looseness of the pants with the structure of a crop top will really compliment my figure. I have already worn the sweater several times with jeans, and I love that the sweater is already cropped so I don’t have to figure how to tuck in something so bulky.
SIZING INFO: I am wearing a size 18 in both the plus size Pleat Front Faux Leather Ankle Pants and plus size White Cropped Sweater, which is my usual size, and both garments fit perfectly!

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger]Natalie in the City reviews Eloquii's Pleat Front Faux Leather Ankle Pants and White Cropped Sweater.

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Plus Size Swimwear

Plus Size Swimsuits I Wore in Costa Rica

I just got back from a tropical vacation in Costa Rica, and if you follow me on Instagram, you’ve already got a sneak peek at the swimsuits and outfits I wore. Trust me, my vacation was much needed as I have been working my butt off non stop since October. It’s been a crazy couple of months. Taking a week off from life is hard for me because I am always so plugged in to everything I am doing, and I have so many responsibilities to take care of. So, while vacation was nice, I am so glad to be back home and on my regular schedule. But dressing for temperatures in the ’90s got me super excited for spring and summer. So I put together a little list of everything I wore in Costa Rica, from swimsuits to full-on looks! Also: if you are booking a trip to Costa Rica anytime soon, I included my recommendations at the end of this post!

Chicago Plus Size Petite Fashion Blogger Natalie in the City, reviews plus size swimwear and shares what to do in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Bronzed Babe
I have sooooo many swimsuits, but when I booked this trip, I knew I had to find something special that would pull me out of the depths of winter and propel me into feeling like a glowy, summer goddess. I found this plus size Aerie Shine Bikini set (featuring the Long-Line Triangle Bikini Top and Banded Bikini Bottoms) and I knew it was perfect for Costa Rica. Sure enough, the bikini didn’t disappoint. I wore it to the beach, the pool, and everything in between. I even got the matching Bandeau Bikini Top for some versatility. I will say that both of the tops fit me very well. I usually wear a 42C and a 2X in tops, and I ordered the XXL in both of these tops. The bottoms also fit me very well, and they were more of a cheeky fit, which I love. However, they weren’t the best while I was wave surfing or trying to basket toss my friends—we watched Netflix’s Cheer documentary during the flight there so we were feeling inspired….don’t judge. The bikini bottoms would always roll down below my lower tummy if I was doing any kind of physical activity. It’s not ideal, but I would rather wear lower-rise bikini bottoms than high-waisted ones. Just not my style! All-in-all, I felt beautiful in this set!

Golden Girl
I also stumbled upon this Aerie Shine Strappy Back One Piece swimsuit when I found my bronze bikini. I have always dreamt of having a plus size metallic bikini or one piece, so I knew it was my time to shine–literally. I loved this one piece, but I will say that it’s not the most *flattering* suit if that is a characteristic you want your suit to have. For me, personally, I never aim for “flattering.” Instead, I aim to dress in things that make me feel good and confident, which isn’t always flattering. This swimsuit, because of the skin tight material and light, shiny color, shows every bump, line, and curve. I rocked it confidently to the pool, and loved every second of it. It’s truly a stunner! I ordered a XXL, which was a perfect fit for me! The suit was very stretchy!

Highlighter at Sea
While the shiny swimsuits were super sexy, I knew I needed at least one extremely functional, practical swimsuit for any adventures. When I found out we were going on a boat excursion and snorkeling, I knew this lace up swimsuit from Torrid was going to be the perfect suit for the occasion. This plus size swimsuit was made for curves, and you could tell. The way it contoured my curves and provided support was incredible. I felt secure and sexy in it all day throughout all of my adventures. I am wearing a size 2, which is my usual size, and the fit was spot on! OMG this swimsuit looks so good in photos, too. CHECK IT OUT

Double Duty Cover Up
I don’t think the Metallic Bianca Top and Pants from Premme was designed to be a swimsuit cover up, but seeing as it is see through, it was the perfect look to throw on over a swimsuit. Before I dive in, let’s pour one out for Premme. The clothing brand—started by Nicolette Mason and Gabi Gregg—is severely missed. But I am so so happy I snagged this set, and I will hold onto it forever. Personally, I have a feeling that we haven’t seen the last of Premme, and I am holding out for the day when they come back. But anyways, any chance I get to wear this outfit, I will. It’s extra AF, and everyone looks at me when I sport it and I love every second of it. I feel like a true plus size princess in Premme. I am wearing a size 2 in this set, and it fits perfectly!

Go With the Flow
Don’t let the photos fool you, I spent most of my time fresh-faced with beach hair. But the second I got to throw on some tinted moisturizer and a cute outfit, I turned to this Torrid Black Challis Off Shoulder & Ruffle Skirt Set. The skirt was so beautiful as it moved with my body and the breeze brought it to life. I am tucking this outfit away for safe keeping until the summer rolls around. Seriously, this look was my favorite of the whole trip! I am wearing the size 2, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly!

In case you’re wondering/booking a trip to Costa Rica, this is what I did:
– I spent A LOT of time on the beach (Playa Ocotal, Flamingo, and Coco)
– We stayed in Guanacaste, Costa Rica (the west side, which is known for it’s desert-tropical climate)
– We rented an Airbnb in Azul Paraiso, which is at the top of a huge hill in Playa Ocotal. It was so nice!
– I highly recommend Cost Rica Sailing with Panache Sailing. Their snorkeling excursion was so fun.
– We had an adventure packed day hiking up the Rincón de la Vieja volcano, as well as white water tubing and horse back riding.

Here are some fun photos from my trip! All of these photos below were taken by my friend Ben Rifken. He is an insanely talented photographer and videographer in Lisbon, Portugal. If you ever need an artist in that area, he’s your guy!

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