Trend-challenged? Looking for a few core pieces to round out your wardrobe? I've found some great must-have categories that will start your day off in shopping bliss.
1. Transparent Tops
Think this is a challenging category for trends? Transparency is something that many plus women wouldn't dare to try out, but with chiffon, silk, georgette, and more, you'll be well on your way to soft styles that can make you look younger and perhaps 5 pounds lighter. Layer yours under blazers and jackets for a great look that not too revealing.
2. Exotic Florals and Frills
Florals and soft styles reign supreme for spring, and you can find the best looks for you by studying both the size of the pattern as well as the coloring. Look for items with an easy, medium-sized floral print if you want to play it safe, or consider something a little more whimsical to be right on trend in no time.3. Pastels
I'm headed for blue with this explosion of light colored trendy items for spring. We saw yellow, purple, pink, and green bounce down the runway, and they can be worn by women of all sizes with a discerning eye. Choose a color that's not too light to usher in this trend gracefully, and then pack on the decorative bangles in lights and whites to complete the look.4. Black 'n' White
Simple, easy, and completely doable-- that's how I like my spring 2008 trends. The black and white trend can be achieved with your basic white blouse accessorized with a black chiffon scarf or wrap, black earrings or bracelets, or a dramatic black hat.5. Metallic Shine
Metallics are here to stay, and while most of us have a piece fitting this trend tucked away somewhere, it's always good to add to your collection. To buy into metallic trends without spending too much, consider a handbag in cool silver.6. Maxi-Length Styles
Long maxi dresses can be pretty stressful if you are plus-size, but for the taller ones among us-- no problem. You can pull off longer dresses without a problem, as your stature allows for it, and you'll look amazing in shoulder-baring pieces. For those of us who need something that doesn't swamp our figure, try slighter longer dresses than usual with a wrap or a decorative sash to cinch the waist.