When it comes to plus size fashion, the challenge often lies not in finding beautiful clothes, but in crafting outfits that are fashion forward, comfortable, and versatile. Outfit formulas can be a game-changer, especially for us plus size bodies, offering a reliable, stylish framework that takes the guesswork out of getting dressed.

Whether it’s a go-to pairing of a tailored blazer with wide-leg trousers or a casual combo of a midi dress and sneakers, these formulas shared by a few plus size influencers, help to simplify decision-making while ensuring you feel confident and put-together. In this article, we’ll explore how outfit formulas are a must, how they provide structure to our wardrobes, and practical ways you can create your own formulas that work for your lifestyle!

A Few Tips About Outfit Formulas to Know!

To give you a better idea about how this works, we will discuss some popular outfit formulas for late fall and early winter and give you a short list of influencers that you may be interested in following. These influencers discuss outfit formulas, offer styling tips, and how clothing works on plus size bodies.

@layerednliberte has an entire series on her TikTok page called #YouCantDress. In this series, she shows some of her favorite outfit formulas so you can easily replicate them. One of our favorites for the colder weather is an oversized shirt and leggings. A long sleeve oversized tee or a button-down with any sort of leggings- it works every time for any body type! 

We asked @lifewithashleysymone what her biggest piece of styling advice would be. She said, “to wear things that are comfortable able make you feel beautiful and empowered. In a world where they tell you that your body is not good enough to wear what you want, I say flaunt it.”

Ashley says her outfit formula jam is a graphic tee and a pair of mom or boyfriend jeans. You can tuck it a little bit in the front to give some shape to the shirt. Add some accessories like a simple necklace and bam! Instant style! 

@its.just.jewel had compiled an entire list of outfit formulas, available through her Linktree. If you are looking for even more ideas than what we have included in this article, it’s probably the best place for you to go in order to find a bunch of ideas all in one place.

We love an organized baddie! Just Jewel says, “My favorite outfit formula is comfy pants + basic top + fun shoe! It’s versatile for any season and any setting and the fun shoe adds the element of style that takes the outfit up a notch. It’s a go-to for business casual workwear for me because being comfortable and stylish is important to me.”

We asked @kateiswinnen her best styling advice. She said, “the best way to find what formulas work for you is to notice what key wardrobe pieces you find yourself frequently putting together. Even something simple like a t-shirt and jeans can be a great and reliable formula. If you feel stuck, check out places for visual inspo like Pinterest, Instagram, or TikTok, and break down the looks you’re most drawn to. Almost any outfit can be turned into a formula!”

Kate goes on to say, “Outfit formulas are a combination of wardrobe pieces that can be interchangeable, and they’re fantastic because they provide a structured and duplicatable approach to getting dressed. By following a formula, you can easily create styled and well-put-together outfits without the mental energy of constant decision-making. Plus, they can work for just about any style and occasion. It can feel so overwhelming to look at our entire wardrobe and decide what to wear, but if we can narrow it down to one formula, then we only have to decide which pieces to add in to create that combination. Having a few key outfit formulas are so helpful in getting dressed, and make feeling styled really achievable.”

One of Kate’s favorite formulas is a blazer, graphic t-shirt, and jeans for something cool yet structured. She showcases this formula pretty often on her TikTok and she has made us blazer believers!

We hope this outfit formula concept inspires you to create some new looks with your current wardrobe and even some inso when shopping. It can be overwhelming to think of how to make a new look combining what you already have at home with something you eye at the store, but that’s totally something outfit formulas can help with!

What are some of your favorite formulas? Tell us in the comments!

This article, At A Loss for A Look? Try An Outfit Formula! first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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Picture it: lockdown 2020. We were all quarantined inside our houses with very limited interaction with other humans. The world was frightening and there wasn’t a whole lot to do. So what did most of us end up doing? Downloading TikTok. That’s what I did at least. Little did I know that downloading an app would contribute to changing my entire world.

Let’s give you some background first. In 2020, I was married to a man and had been since 2013. I had a son who would have been 3 years old at the time. I worked full time from home in healthcare. I was living a house that my spouse and I owned. My parents lived 2 hours away but my mom, who has since passed, came to help us with our son while daycare closed.

I noticed over the subsequent year following the initial download of TikTok, that there were a lot of really attractive people posting on the app. A lot of people, who I found attractive, who weren’t men. My thoughts went something like this: oh, I’ve just never seen anyone who looked like that in real life before… wait, why are there so many people I find attractive who aren’t men? Am I attracted to people who aren’t men? 

Early in 2022, I confided in a close friend who I knew identified as bi. It was the first time I said out loud that I was questioning whether I was straight or not. She then went on to try to convince me that I was straight since I wasn’t salivating over the thought of touching another woman. But if we’re being honest, did I feel that way about men before I had done anything physical with a man? Nope! But I decided to keep those thoughts to myself after that conversation, at least for a little while.

Summer of 2022, my spouse initiated a conversation with me that made me feel like it might be ok to open up to him. I told him I wasn’t sure I was straight. And his response was “well too bad it’s too late for you to find out now because we’re married.” Oh my, how my brain works because my immediate thought was “…or is it??” But again, I kept that thought to myself for another six months.

Let’s Do This!!

During those six months, I decided I was going to figure out a way to be able to discover more about myself. I dove deep into researching ethical non-monogamy. This included talking to someone who was openly polyamorous and learning what options I could possibly have. Would other people judge me? Probably. Did I care? Honestly, at that point I didn’t really care but the person I was the most worried about was my spouse. I feared he would think he did something wrong or that I didn’t love him anymore, which wasn’t true. 

So in January of 2023, I got the courage to have the conversation. This initial conversation with my spouse ended up being a few hours long because when someone you’ve been with for 13 years asks if you’d be ok with opening up your marriage in order for them to help figure out their sexuality, that can be incredibly scary! It took my spouse a while to be able to wrap his head around it and it took more follow up conversation as well, but we decided to try it and see.

My first few dates with women were… confusing for me. I had a very hard time figuring out whether myself or the other person just felt friendly vibes or if there was anything more. By the end of February 2023, I was in my first relationship with a woman. On our second date, I felt something click and thought to myself “ohhh this makes sense, I’m checking out her butt, I must like her.” This relationship only lasted about a year but it taught me a lot. Women can be just as emotionally abusive, controlling, and manipulative as men…which is actually how my marriage also ended up failing late in 2023. But that’s a story for another article.

Coming Out as Lesbian

Coming out to my spouse, although I was worried about how it would impact my marriage, didn’t feel scary. I am so thankful that most people I know in real life are very inclusive and accepting. I came out publicly a year ago, during Pride month, in a Facebook post and then subsequent posts on various forms of social media. Honestly, people had a much harder time getting used to the poly part of things than the gay part of me. 

My dad was definitely one of those people who had a hard time grasping the concept of polyamory, although he quickly joked “where was that idea when I was growing up?” We still have conversations where he is curious about how I figured it out, why it took so long, etc. I am very lucky to be able to have such honest and open conversations with my dad. He may not always understand, but he always makes sure I know he still loves me. 

So many people I interacted with after I came out commented on how different I seemed. They said I was so much happier and seemed more “me.” Which I totally agree with! But it was crazy to me how much people could see that from the outside. Every time someone commented on that, it made my heart so happy knowing I was finally my genuine self.

How Did I Not Know?

I discovered during my first relationship with a woman that I was just meant for ladies. The way I communicate, my honesty, my ability to make someone feel safe and get to know them on a deeper level- these were all things women greatly appreciated but men often did not.

I also thought a lot more critically about how I “missed” things earlier in my life that would indicate I liked women. Things like being really excited to play spin-the-bottle at a party where mostly women who identified as bi were playing, being extremely nervous when I walked into a local crystal shop every time the female owner was present (it’s because she was GORGEOUS), getting added on Snapchat by a gay woman I worked with and being excited that she might be hitting on me, being weirded out by physical scenes in a movie or on TV between a man and a woman, and in contrast seeking out media where two women were intimate with each other. 

Not only these instances, but I also remember my family making comments at different points hinting at the fact that I may not be straight. I distinctly remember going shopping for college with my mom. We were at Kohl’s and I wanted this little step stool that had storage in it. I wanted the blue one because it’s my favorite color. My mom told me she wanted me to get the pink one. I insisted that I liked the blue one better. Her response to that was “well I don’t think it would kill you to soften your image a bit and be a little more feminine.” 

Unfortunately, my mom passed from dementia and cancer this past December so I was never able to tell her that I had finally figured myself out. But I like to think that she knew before everyone else, probably always knew, and would have been supportive in time.

How Did I Get Here?

I do think compulsory heterosexuality was part of why I went without knowing I was a lesbian for so long. Oh yeah, there was a period of time when I was still married that I thought I might be Pansexual. But after a lot of therapy, unpacking comp het, and reflecting…I’m most comfortable identifying as a late in life lesbian. 

When I was a kid, I didn’t know anyone who was openly gay. There were two women I knew who adopted two children together and told everyone they were “cousins.” Granted, do I know for sure if these two very masc presenting women were gay? Not 100%. But in hindsight, I think they didn’t want to be out or didn’t feel safe or comfortable being out in the late 90s and kept it hidden. But this was my only real-world example until college. 

Even in college, I knew there were girls who identified as bi and guys who identified as gay, but I had honestly never thought more into it at that point. I should have, because I often wonder what my life would have been like if I knew earlier.

Conversations with straight women also compound comp het. You are led to believe by other married women that husbands men are supposed to be the problem in relationships. I was traveling for work lately and the amount of women talking about how their relationships with their husbands were frustrating because he’s never been home alone with the kids before, or he didn’t get the kids ready for daycare, or he forgot XYZ because he’s not used to being responsible. The conversation surrounding straight relationships is that if you’re a woman, you’ll be let down and disappointed with your spouse…often. The patriarchy literally sets the bar so low for men.

And that was my experience with men! I thought “the ick” was normal. There was even a period of time that I questioned if I was asexual because I was so turned off by sex. Turns out I was just having it with the wrong partner!

How Growing Up Fat Mattered

We all know the stereotypes of fat women being a secret or not being attractive at all. I found myself seeking male validation from around 16 years old. That’s what I thought attraction to men was. But I wasn’t attracted to them. It was like I was trying to prove a point to myself that men were attracted to me. I wasn’t paying attention to what I actually wanted or was attracted to. It was all about them. Society had a big hand in that.

What I Know Now

I am a late in life lesbian. I will never go back to dating a man. After over a year in therapy, I’m about a month away from being legally divorced, and I’m in the healthiest relationship with a woman. There’s something to be said for when two late in life lesbians who have never been loved the way they needed to be get together. Our relationship is beautiful. We show up for each other, usually without the other even asking. We have open and honest conversations, even when it can be scary based on our past experiences. But we are proving to each other every day that we are deserving of this kind of healing love.

My advice for anyone who has questioned their sexuality would be to give yourself the time and grace to figure it out. It may take a while, it won’t happen overnight. And it’s ok to get it wrong. Sexuality is also fluid, so something you think today could change a year down the road. That’s ok. But you are valid- whether you’re still in the closet because of safety reasons, whether you’re just starting your journey, or whether you‘re still trying to figure it out. You’ll get there and it’ll be life-changing.

This article, Realizing I am a Lesbian in my Late 30s first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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TomboyX is a queer-founded brand dedicated to empowering our LGBTQ+ community year-round and advocating for equal representation and celebration of all people. Each product is made with one goal in mind: to manufacture thoughtful, beautifully-made products for all bodies and needs, of all sizes and across the gender spectrum. So, naturally, they have a wide selection of styles, in sizes 3XS-6X. They’re probably most well-known for their underwear, but they have other clothing items too!

TomboyX carries pride themed underwear year-round, so you don’t have to wait until June to get some rainbow goodies. Collections that are regularly in stock include Progress Pride Stripes, Rainbow Pride Stripes, and Black Rainbow. You can feel fully supported and confident as you celebrate TomboyX’s mission: to celebrate inclusivity for all!

And some great news! One of their most loved pride set is back in stock- Rainbow dragon! This print has sold out 3 times within a few weeks of dropping, so they had to bring it back! There are also some new Pride prints, including Graffiti Pride and Gimme Gummies. And there is a new Flower Bomb print coming soon!

Their French Terry Metallic Rainbow collection has recently dropped. This is a new metallic rainbow print and comes in a French Terry zip up hoodie, jogger, shorts, and romper. This upgraded fabric is even softer and offers unrivaled comfort and breathability.

Want to enjoy a variety of summer activities from swimming to hiking to family BBQs? Well, TomboyX just dropped new swimwear pieces that allow you to relax by the pool or splash around in the middle of the ocean. Not only do they come in a couple of really cute prints, but their swim pieces are also reversible! These are consciously designed pieces that allow you to mix and match a full coverage look and have UV protection with UPF 50 for less worry and more play.

Another favorite for the summer is their compression tops and binders. These come in a variety of colors and styles. With high arm holes, longer length, stretch and power mesh fabric, you will be comfortable all day long.

At the end of a long summer day, you may just want to slip into something lounge-friendly and comfy. The Cozy Luxe collection was created for ultimate relaxation! Designed for versatility, this collection transitions easily from activewear to loungewear.

Learn more and shop the collections now at TomboyX.com

If you’re interested in trying TomboyX, look for their upcoming Fourth of July summer clearance event! We love that TomboyX is a gender and size inclusive brand and can’t wait to see what they come out with next!

This article, You Oughta Know the Size-Inclusive Activewear and Underwear Brand, TomboyX! first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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Pre-Conceived Notions around Plus Size Pregnancy

When my spouse and I had decided we wanted to have children, I made an appointment with my OBGYN to see what I should do proactively before we even started trying. She told me to stop taking my birth control and wait about three months for my body to re-regulate itself before we started trying to conceive.

She explained that once my body was able to regulate its hormones off of birth control, the average couple takes anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to conceive. If it took us over a year, then she would have recommendations of fertility specialists to look into if either of wanted testing at that point.

Ovulation

I had the hardest time being able to figure out when I was ovulating. I tried to track my ovulation with an ovulation kit but no matter when I tested myself, it never showed positive for ovulation. 

I have since learned that ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) might not work as well for folks who have a higher body mass index (BMI). According to Nicola Salmon (@fatpositivefertility), “Recent research has found that LH levels, which are super important for predicting ovulation, can be lower in people with a higher BMI. A study from 2017 (PMID: [29234665]) found that “women with higher BMI may have lower LH levels, and hypothetically, a positive test may be less frequent.” Basically, if you have a higher BMI, it could be harder to detect a positive LH surge, which could make it tougher to pinpoint ovulation.

Another study from 2020 (PMID: [32410606]) found similar results, with LH levels being lower in folks with a higher BMI. The study didn’t find a big difference in pregnancy rates between people with different BMIs, so it’s important to remember that if your LH is lower, it doesn’t mean that getting pregnant will be harder.”

We’re Having a Baby!

It was Easter morning and my period was a few days late. So I took a pregnancy test and it was positive! I had all the emotions- happiness, hopefulness, fear, uncertainty. All of them flooded in at once and I walked down the stairs, set down in the middle of the steps and told my spouse that I had a positive test.

He ran out to the store immediately to grab a few more tests- just to be sure! And they were all positive!

My OB

I got so lucky with my OBGYN. He was amazing throughout my pregnancy and only mentioned my weight once, in passing. He had a medical student following him for one of my first few appointments and told the student that “with women who are a higher weight, they may not gain much weight in the first trimester, and some even lose weight because of morning sickness but to not be surprised if that happens.” 

If you are worried about finding a doctor that will treat YOU and not focus on weight, you can read more here about how to find a fat positive doctor.

Not Rounding Out

I’ve had a B belly since I can remember. If you aren’t sure what that is, read more here. But I always thought that when I got pregnant, it would round out and look like a typical pregnant belly. I was wrong. Mine never fully rounded out into a D shape. It stayed a B shape, just a larger B. The important thing to remember is that pregnancy doesn’t look one certain way. It looks different for everyone and that’s beautiful!

Reactions from the Crowd

I remember two specific instances when I was pregnant that I realized that the average person has NO IDEA what plus size pregnancy looks like. The first one, I was probably about 5 months along at this point. I was working in a pretty big office and was semi-familiar with a lot of the people who worked on my floor.

I was in line in the women’s bathroom, because our floor was mostly women so it was typically pretty crowded. Another girl walked in, who was also pregnant, but a few months father along than me. Everyone made comments about how she could go in front of them, she needed to get in there faster than anyone else, she must have to go so bad, etc. No one noticed I was also pregnant and therefore I stayed in my spot in line.

The second time, I was verrrrrry pregnant. My C-section was scheduled for about a week or two out and I was talking to a co-worker about maternity leave and how HR has been making the process really difficult. Another co-worker walked over and said “oh my gosh! You’re pregnant?! I had no idea!!!” I have no idea whether she thought this was a compliment or something? But I just looked her dumbfounded and wondering to myself “does she think I only gained weight in my belly?”

Maternity Photos- TAKE THEM!

I’ve heard so many plus size women regret not taking maternity photos. I totally get it. People don’t recognize that you’re pregnant. Your body is rapidly changing. Your body feels weird and different. It feels like there isn’t even enough room in your body for your organs! I completely understand not wanting to document it when you feel less than fabulous.

But do it! I was hesitant as well to take pictures. But looking back, they are absolutely some of my favorite pictures of myself!

To ECV or Not to ECV

My son was breech. I knew this around my 34-week ultrasound. He found a comfy spot and just wouldn’t move. I was scared to have a C-section so I really wanted the doctor to try external cephalic version to turn him in order for me to be able to deliver him naturally. 

If I had to do it over again, I would absolutely NOT ask for the ECV. I forgot to breathe the first time they tried and hyperventilated because it was so painful. Some people describe it as uncomfortable, as they try to flip the baby from the outside, but I found it incredibly painful. My spouse said they were pushing so hard on my belly that he could see the outline of the baby through my stomach.

They tried a total of 3 times and I got to a point where I asked them to stop. They would get him about 50% of the way and then he would slide right back to where he sat the entire pregnancy. So I ended up with a C-section anyway.

The Dreaded C-Section

I was pleasantly surprised by how easy my C-section was. The anesthesiologist told me that my back was made for the spinal block. I couldn’t feel anything from the neck down, which did make it a tiny bit hard to remember to breathe. It’s hard to tell your body to use your lungs when you can’t feel anything! They also had to tilt me on my side for a few minutes because my blood pressure started to dip.

But after that, it was smooth sailing! The meds they give you are phenomenal, I didn’t have a care in the world and asked if I could take a nap. My surgeon happened to be a woman and I appreciated that she hid my scar under my belly apron, but just above the fold of my skin. I know this is a concern for a lot of larger women- that the surgical wound will be hard to keep clean and dry and free of infection. I think the placement of my incision plus the aftercare instructions they gave me helped me have no wound complications afterwards.

An Unexpected Diagnosis 

Insufficient glandular tissue (IGT). Have you heard of that? I hadn’t before I did some online research and eventually was diagnosed with it. 

IGT is a disorder where the milk-making tissue of breasts doesn’t develop as it should. This can happen in utero, during puberty, or during pregnancy. There are different theories behind what can cause IGT such as PCOS, thyroid issues, and more. But the truth is, the numbers you’ve probably heard about 99% of women being able to successfully breastfeed are inaccurate.

I knew something was wrong when my son wasn’t sleeping more than 20 minutes at a time and always screaming. I tried to reach out to other moms since I was a first-time mom and everyone assured me that babies are just hard sometimes and it was normal. It wasn’t.

At one of my son’s follow-up appointments about a week after birth, we found out he was losing weight and they were starting to get concerned. Our pediatrician asked me to pump instead of breastfeed to determine how much milk he was getting. I only pumped a few milliliters. My son was unknowingly starving.

I started supplementing with formula, power pumping, taking supplements, eating foods that were supposed to help boost supply, saw 3 different lactation consultants. I didn’t understand why nothing I did seemed to work. That was until I read about IGT. Once I brought it up to my lactation consultant, she knew at that point that I had done everything she asked and more and told me it was a solid possibility. My OBGYN later confirmed the diagnosis. 

A year postpartum, I had an unrelated mammogram that made me feel so validated. The tech told me she could see everything in my breasts because I had the opposite of dense breasts- there was only a tiny bit of glandular tissue. Which she commented is great for mammograms but terrible for breastfeeding!

What I Learned

Getting a doctor that cares about YOU and not your weight during pregnancy is so important! There is no other time where you go in expecting your weight to increase over time. This is when you want a provider who treats you like a pregnant human being and not a number on a scale. 

Do your own research and ask your providers the hard questions! I can’t emphasize this enough. I wouldn’t have known that I had IGT had I not sought out the information myself and brought it to my medical team for discussion.

Appreciate the moments during pregnancy even when they’re hard. Whether it’s questioning whether to take pictures of your changing body, or comments from co-workers, there will be amazing things too! Like the first time you feel your child kick or the first time you see them on an ultrasound. You got this mama!!!

This article, How I Navigated My Plus Size Pregnancy first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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Gone are the days of rigid gender norms dictating bridal fashion. Instead, we’re witnessing a liberating shift towards inclusivity and self-expression. To-be-weds are embracing styles that transcend traditional boundaries, opting for designs that celebrate individuality. If this resonates with you and you’ve been looking for some less femme leaning options, we have fantastic news for you! WILDFANG has entered the bridal space! 

If you aren’t familiar with WILDFANG, it’s a gender inclusive brand that started in a studio apartment in Portland, OR. They’re on a mission to rethink gender norms and how they show up in the fashion world. Not only do they embrace all genders, but they’re also working to create a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace! Who doesn’t love a brand who is trying to make a difference in the world?!

Not only is the brand inclusive-minded, but they are also a sustainable brand. They are committed to instating greener, more sustainable practices throughout their business. As of August 2022, they were climate neutral certified. Even their manufacturing partners meet the global recycled standard and their worker conditions are audited to ensure they meet safety standards. So buying from WILDFANG is something you can feel good about!

In response to a growing demand for occasionwear last year, this spring, WILDFANG created a non-traditional wedding collection that provides a plus size solution for those looking for elevated pieces that represent them. Whether they’re attending the wedding, in the wedding party, or getting married themselves – WILDFANG has you covered!

Styles are offered in sizes XS-3X. This line includes a 20-piece capsule collection that highlights the brand’s expertise in tailoring, showcasing a curated assortment that blends WILDFANG’s signature silhouettes with both traditional and nontraditional bridal elements.

Shop the collection now at Wildfang.com

From the iconic high-waisted coverall to the versatile six-way corset and the convertible blazer and color block pant, each garment seamlessly marries contemporary style with classic bridal cues. This includes the “something blue” accents! The collection’s standout new style is a tailored two-piece brocade suit, designed to instill confidence in all genders. 

This collection is the first of Wildfang’s kind and not only meets the growing demand for non-traditional wedding attire, but also signifies a larger cultural shift within the wedding industry. As couples seek alternatives to traditional bridal wear, WILDFANG provides a solution that resonates with those that crave authenticity, self-expression, and inclusivity on their special day.

The WILDFANG bridal collection is available for purchase online and in the brand’s brick-and-mortar stores in Portland and Los Angeles.

This article, Something New: WILDFANG’s Genderless Bridal Collection first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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But if you ask Annie to describe their sound, she says “We’re like if Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, and Bo Burnham met up at an Olive Garden and wrote a song while eating unlimited breadsticks. Does that make sense? Probably not.” Annie Nardolilli is a Mormon and former sheriff’s deputy from Arlington, VA. Louisa Hall is a long-time lapsed Catholic and a career tech employee.  From Alexandria, VA and now resides in Reston, VA.

The duo met at a DC-based variety show in 2015 and were the only musicians in a group of comedians performing that night. “Louisa played a song called ‘Barista Boyfriend,’ about a barista she had a crush on, and I played a song called ‘Hot Park Ranger’ about a park ranger I had a crush on,” says Annie.  “We both realized we liked hot people with jobs!”  They felt an immediate kinship. 

After continually running into each other in the singer-songwriter scene in DC and admiring each other’s work, they joked backstage at the 9:30 Club in 2018 about how they should form a band together. They scheduled their first rehearsal in 2019, and wrote a song about vaccines and egg rolls, and the rest is history.

Griefcat’s album Late Stage Capitalism includes nine tracks that range from flat out hilarious to unexpectedly thought provoking, each with a unique sound and lyrics to tickle the soul. The musicianship stands out on its own as well. You will hear some unexpected instruments like slide guitar, ukulele, trumpet, trombone, violin, and cello throughout the album. The album explores how unbridled capitalism has invaded every facet of modern life, from workplace politics to interpersonal relationships, and even our most private moments.  

They came up with the title in early 2020 when they wrote arguably their most well-known song on the album to date, “Revolution (Poop At Work).” This song catapulted the duo to viral infamy and a strong following with over 25 million organic views of their videos – more than 15 million of those views for that song alone. 

“Revolution (Poop At Work)” is a song about how even the smallest acts of defiance can be revolutionary. “So much of the 2020s feel like the 1920s all over again – the income inequality is staggering, and the rich are getting richer while others are struggling,” says Louisa.  “Late stage capitalism is at the core of our entire album, but this is the song that most explicitly calls this out. We always tell audiences it’s our most cerebral song, then we dive into a 1.5 minute poop joke.  Life can be crappy, but it’s so much more fun to laugh your way through it!” 

Other songs on the album include “I Just Want To Get Inside (Your Bank Account).” This song is an unanticipated, ‘90s-style love song with a hilarious contradiction between two women looking for two different things when it comes to a new relationship.  Are they looking for love or money? It also shines a light on dating culture and how much sensitive personal information we share online every day.

“Crytpobro” is a traditional country tune with all the makings of a hit song.  It’s a melodic, catchy, and current, and a breakup song about losing love, in this case to the cult of Cryptocurrency and the church of Elon Musk. 

With each live show, Griefcat invites their audience to step inside their world, creating a fun and exciting atmosphere that becomes a universally shared experience.  “We want to take away some of the seriousness of the day and help people remember that though life may be chaotic and nonsensical, it’s still good. Life is hard and it’s okay to laugh at it together,” says Annie.  

But the greatest messages they receive are from fans who say their music provides a cathartic experience.  Says Louisa, “We’ve had folks reach out who couldn’t get out of bed due to grief, and they’ve found us, and it brought them enough joy to get out of bed that day.” 

Ultimately they want people to enjoy the music, not just because it’s funny, but because it’s good – they want fans to feel it in their souls, to love the lyrics, and to have fun singing along.  People often tell them after a Griefcat show that they haven’t laughed that hard in a long time, and that’s a compliment that inspires Griefcat to keep making music every day.  

Not only is Griefcat discussing difficult topics in a light-hearted way, they are also focused on inclusion and supportive of the plus size community. Louisa says, “Something instrumental to me on my journey as a fat person was seeing fat creators thriving in the world – it gave me hope that I could too. Now that we are more in the public eye, I’m grateful to be in a position where I can share that hope and joy with others. Seeing fat people represented, especially as main characters in our own stories, is incredibly powerful, and I’m proud to be one of the many incredible fat creators out there showing that we exist, and we are worthy of the spotlight!”

Learn more, Listen, and support the Dynamic Duo at Griefcat.com!

Annie says, “I would love to one day live in a world where all body types are so normalized they aren’t even a topic of conversation, but until that day I love being a tiny part of the growing landscape of diverse bodies represented in media. No matter how much or how little physical space you take up, the world has infinite room for everything you bring to the table. And if you happen to bring a whoooole lot to the table, might as well share that with as many people as possible right?”

Who wouldn’t want to support a duo that supports the plus size community? If you’d like to learn more about Griefcat, visit their socials at @griefcatpartytime on Instagram and on TikTok at @griefcat!

This article, From “Pooping at Work” to Love and Money: Griefcat Unpacks “Late Stage Capitalism” first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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But here’s the real deal: Summer should be about fun in the sun, not stressing over whether your body fits someone else’s idea of “perfect.” Let’s face it, most of us don’t, and that’s perfectly okay!

I’m all about breaking free from those limiting beauty standards and embracing our bodies just the way they are. So, if you’re ready to strut your stuff by the pool or beach with confidence, stick around. I’ve got eight game-changing tips to help you rock that swimsuit like a boss!

Unleash Your Plus Size Swimsuit Confidence with these 8 Tips

1. There Is No Such Thing As The Perfect Body

Banish the notion of the “perfect body”! Let’s be real—what society deems as perfection simply doesn’t exist in the way we’ve been led to believe. Even those individuals we admire grapple with their own insecurities.

Remember, there’s no predetermined size or shape that magically bestows perfection upon anyone. Every body is unique and worthy of rocking a swimsuit with confidence, regardless of societal standards. It’s time to celebrate diversity and embrace the beauty of every shape and size!

2. Practice Makes Perfect!

Repetition breeds confidence! It might seem unconventional, but slipping into your swimsuit at home can work wonders in desensitizing those initial jitters about showing off your skin. Embrace the mirror and take a stroll around, allowing yourself to get accustomed to your reflection.

The more you familiarize yourself with how you look and feel in your swimsuit, the more plus size swimsuit confidence you’ll have and at ease you’ll become. So, don’t shy away from those mirrors—embrace them and strut your stuff with self-assurance!

3. Pick A Suit You’re Comfortable In

There is no rule that you must wear the tiniest plus size bikini known to man. Wear what YOU feel good in. Whether that’s a one piece, a tankini, a bikini with a swim coverup- whatever makes you feel confident is what you should go with. 

Also? Choosing a plus size swimsuit that fits you well will help aid in your plus size swimsuit confidence journey. Do not be particular about the size or number on the suit, go with feels the best on you.

On fit, Knix shares that “if you notice any uncomfortable compression or red marks on your skin, or find the suit difficult to get on and off, it’s likely you’ve gone too small.” 

4. Rock Your Favorite Style, Color, or Print

Embrace your personal style! While different styles of swimsuits may not be everyone’s cup of tea, choosing one in your favorite color or print can work wonders. Opting for a design that resonates with you can instantly boost your confidence and comfort levels.

After all, when you feel good in what you wear, it shows. So, don’t hesitate to rock your favorite hues or patterns and make your swimwear a reflection of your unique taste and personality.

5. Go Outside In It

Another fun way to boost your plus size swimsuit confidence is to take your swimsuit for a test drive! Before jetting off on vacation, why not wear your swimsuit out for a pool day or some sunbathing?

Think of it as a trial run to ensure everything feels just right. This way, you can determine if the fit is perfect or if there are any fabric quirks that bug you once wet.

After all, it’s all about gaining that extra confidence boost before hitting the beach. So, slip into your swimsuit and strut your stuff with ease!

6. Who Is Looking At You?

Ever pondered who’s really noticing your swimsuit style? Truth is, we’re often too preoccupied with our own beachside shenanigans to pay much heed to others. Whether it’s corralling kids, diving into games, or simply soaking up the sun, people are immersed in their own experiences.

So, rest assured, the spotlight isn’t as glaring as you might think. Embrace the freedom to flaunt your swimwear with confidence, knowing that everyone else is wrapped up in their own world, just like you. It’s time to let go of that self-consciousness and soak up the good vibes!

7. Spread Some Positivity!

While it might seem like a “girls’ girl” move, consider this: if you’re feeling a bit uneasy in your swimsuit, chances are others are too. So, as you stroll along the beach, why not brighten someone’s day with a genuine compliment? Not only does it make them feel fantastic, but it also cultivates a sense of camaraderie.

Plus, who knows? You might just receive a confidence-boosting compliment in return! It’s all about fostering a positive environment and associating swimsuit moments with joy. After all, empowering women empowers us all!

8. Maximize your Style with Plus Size Coverups!

If you feel more at ease when submerged in the water but find yourself less confident outside of it, consider opting for a chic cover-up to aid in your plus size swimsuit confidence. Whether it’s a flowy pair of pants or an oversized shirt, choose something that complements your vibe.

The key here is to prioritize your comfort and confidence above all else. Select pieces that accentuate your unique style and make you feel fabulous both on and off the beach.

The most important thing to remember is to have fun this summer and know that every body is worthy of having a good time this season! And remember, building your plus size swimsuit confidence is a constant journey, that will always need to be nurtured!

Hopefully these tips will help you navigate this swim season with a but more self-assuredness and confidence!

This article, Unleash Your Plus Size Swimsuit Confidence: 8 Tips for Rocking a Plus Size Swimsuit with Style! first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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We tracked down 7 different plus size spring dress options for you, ranging from affordable to a few hundred dollars. Plus, a few of these companies have several different offerings in each style, not just the specific ones we picked.

7 Plus Size Doll-Inspired Spring Dresses

As The Curvy Fashionista editors, we write about stuff we love and think you’ll like, too. We often use affiliate links, which means we receive a small share of the revenue from your purchase. This does not affect the amount you pay for the product in any way, shape, or form.

Photo Credit: www.eloquii.com

Dramatic Bow Mini Dress

What is more feminine and doll-inspired than a pink bow?! This plus size spring dress from Eloquii is a little different than the ones listed above because it’s a little less delicate and flowy. But the off-the-shoulder puff sleeves and the large waist bow really elevate it to that next level of girly. Plus, this is on sale right now for under $60 and comes in sizes 14-28!

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Photo Credit: ivycityco.com

Quinn Dress

If you’re looking for some delicate ruffles and a peekaboo neckline, this dress from Ivy City Co is just up your alley! Ivy City Co has so many dress options that feel very soft and girly. We picked this one because of the unique neckline that the others on this list just don’t offer. This dress comes in sizes XXS-5X for under $170.

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Photo Credit: selkiecollection.com

The Peach Skin French Puff

We couldn’t write an article about hyper-femme doll-inspired fashion without including the epitome of that aesthetic- Selkie! All of their dresses are so fairy-tale and dreamy. Their puff dresses are increasingly sought after. This beautiful peach puff dress is offered in sizes XXS-6X for under $270.

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Photo Credit: www.birdygrey.com

Monica Shiny Satin Dress - Rose Gold

This shiny satin rose gold moment is perfect for a formal event like a wedding or even date night if you love a long-legged doll-inspired look. Subtle, flirty, and clingy -- this dress is sure to turn heads. Birdy Grey makes all their dresses to order, so check the estimated delivery dates. And if you don't like the color, they have lots of different options for you to choose from! Available up to 3X

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Photo Credit: zapaka.com

A Line Off the Shoulder Green Plus Size Prom Dress with Embroidery

If you’re looking for something with a more fitted bodice, this one from Zapaka features a corset with billowy off-the-shoulder long sleeves and a long flowy skirt. The floral detail is delicate and beautiful. Not only does this dress come in sizes 2-26, but there is also an option to customize your size, ensuring it fits just right! A little more on the expensive side, this dress is just under $150.

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Photo Credit: jessakae.com

Margaret Dress

If we are being honest, most of Jessa Kae’s dresses have the doll-inspired fashion aesthetic. Any of them would look fantastic on a plus size body, too! They showcase a variety of different bodies on their social media, in every size they carry, which is XXS-6X. This particular dress is soft and floral with a short flouncy sleeve. Jessa Kae does run on the more expensive side, with this option priced at just under $200.

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Photo Credit: www.eloquii.com

Strapy Pailette Column Dress

Barbie loves a keyhole and sequins, so this column dress from Eloquii combining the two is a great option! Guaranteed to stun walking into any room, pair this dress with a strappy heel for anything from date night to attending a wedding. It's available up to size 32. Some sizes are sold out, so move quickly if yours is available!

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This article, These 7 Doll-Inspired Plus Size Dresses Have Us So Ready for Spring first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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6 Sex Toys Plus Size and Queer People Need to Try

As The Curvy Fashionista editors, we write about stuff we love and we think you'll like too. We often have affiliate partnerships, so we may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Photo Credit: www.wetforher.com

The Rockher

Wet For Her was originally created by lesbians for lesbians, but their mission and sex toys don’t discriminate! Whether you identify as lesbian, bisexual, queer, cis, trans, or nonbinary, they’ve got you covered. Wet For Her lesbian sex toys line is manufactured using the highest quality medical-grade silicone that is phthalate-free and body-safe. 

Ready to up your scissoring technique? One of their signature sex toys, their newest lesbian sex toy, the RockHer Scissoring Vibrator, has 10 vibration modes controlled with a wireless remote control. It is USB rechargeable, water-safe, and medical-grade silicone. We HIGHLY recommend this one, as it is made with a textured bulb and vibrates your entire clitoral structure. Your partner can also feel the good vibes, making it a perfect toy for couple play!

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Photo Credit: www.wetforher.com

Boxer Brief O-Ring Strap-On Harness

You probably know how complicated and uncomfortable traditional strap-ons can be. But Wet for Her wanted to change the game. This boxer harness is comfortable and functional.

You can even wear them during the day, before you have any spicy time, and add the accessories later. The O’ring is flexible and fits 1”-1.75” dildos and is compatible with the double-ended variety. Machine washable and the best part- it comes in sizes XS-5X.

This is a great option for people who want to explore different positions and try out new things.

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Photo Credit: creaturecock.com

Creature Cocks

Are you ready to be ravaged? If you are a fan of size and texture, get ready for these! They can be used on their own, as most of them can suction to a surface for solo play. Or they can be used in combination with a strap-on harness, like the one mentioned above.

They come in a variety of bright colors and textures. If you’ve ever thought about playing with different textures and like an insertable option, definitely give these a try!

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Photo Credit: Twisted Fantasies

Custom Grinders by TwistedFantasiesShop

If you aren’t a fan of penetration (we know a lot of people aren’t), but you still want to try textures, these grinders are a fantastic choice! Not only do they have some beautiful color combinations and shapes, like butterflies, but the straps that come with them are 40” in length.

They are adjustable, so that means you can strap them to pillows or to the leg of a partner. However you choose to use these grinders, be prepared for a wild ride!

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Photo Credit: www.womanizer.com

The Womanizer Suction Toy

This line of toys focuses on suction rather than vibration, which can add a totally new and fun sensation to your spicy repertoire. They use suction to stimulate the clitoris and offer climax control, which is the depth of the air suction.

They are designed for intense, multiple orgasms while running super quiet. Featuring 10+ intensity levels, waterproof, and easy to clean, this toy may be your new favorite!

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Photo Credit: www.lovense.com

Lovense Lush 3

Have a long-distance partner? They can still participate via an app with this toy, making it super versatile! The Lush 3 has the longest control range out of all wearable Bluetooth vibrators. It can be controlled no matter the distance, as long as you both have access to Wi-Fi or a 4G/5G data connection.

This is a wearable toy and very quiet, so it can be discreetly used in public, with a 4-5 hour capacity of continuous use.

Buy Now

We hope that this list inspired you to try something new and exciting! Don’t be afraid to explore these sex toys for plus size queer bodies and find out what works best for your body.

This article, Try These 6 Sex Toys for Plus Size and Queer Bodies This Valentine’s Day first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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About “I Will Eat You Alive”

The show is set at a dinner table, and 11 audience members are invited to “dine” with the actors at the dinner party. The dinner party is thrown by Fat Woman #1, played by Vicky Graham, “celebrating” their decision to lose weight. The audience is met with some really honest moments like praying to god to make our bodies look like everyone else’s, sexual assault while being in a fat body and discussing eating disorders.

With each dinner course, the trio of fat actors confronts diet culture, fatphobia, and society’s expectations. The courses range from chocolate powder to vegetable broth to literally nothing, an empty platter, for dessert. The main course is something we’ve all heard so much about lately- Ozempic. 

Ozempic has been popularized all over the internet, by celebrities and everyday people alike. Doctors have even been recommending it for overweight children. Ozempic is a drug to treat diabetes but is being used off-label for weight loss. Many insurance companies do not cover Ozempic’s use for weight loss, which means people are paying potentially hundreds of dollars a month out of pocket for this drug. It has serious side effects for people who use it in the short term, but because fatness is still seen as a “health and moral failure,” the drug has become incredibly popular.

There was a very poignant moment where comments from internet “health concern trolls” were projected onto the stark white dining table. There is something about the cast verbalizing these comments (typically only seen on a computer or phone screen) and seeing them flash across the table that makes you really think about how ill-informed and intentionally hurtful these types of comments really are. 

My Favorite Moments From the Show

If you plan to see the show and hate spoilers, skip this part! Some of my favorite moments include:

Wedding Vows to Salad

We have all been told to “eat more salad” because, of course, one meal of vegetables is just going to transform our bodies overnight! *insert eyeball roll here*

The vows, read by Betse Lyons, Fat Woman #2, were followed by throwing the lettuce into the air around the dinner table, similar to rose petals at a wedding. It was comedic but felt so hard on a deep level by the audience

Jenny Craig Makes an Appearance

Because how can you have a show about fat trauma without including good ‘ol Jenny Craig?! Fat Woman #3, played by Meghan Taylor, had some epic Jenny monologues emphasized by a stole crocheted with different color measuring tapes. That was such a perfect touch to the costumes.

“I Will Eat You Alive” Closes February 10, 2024

As the show progresses, the audience witnesses the journey toward fat liberation, self-acceptance, not putting limits on yourself, and ultimately – freedom. This includes a scene with a giant cake and lots of moaning. 

After each character is on board with releasing themselves from the clutches of diet culture, they symbolically free themselves by taking off their outer garments and revealing brightly colored underwear. The end of the show is meant to be a celebration. A celebration of bodies, a celebration of self, a celebration of liberation. 

This show runs through February 10th at the Voxel in Baltimore, MD. I highly recommend attending one of the final showings!

This article, “I Will Eat You Alive”: A Review first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by mightymurphin.

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