Monday, February 27, 2012

Outa the Box


Babe's Picks for Summer will have a new look and a new purpose to celebrate the plus size women's clothing revolution! We've listened to what customers are saying with regard to our photography, in addition to the models we know and love, Phillippa, Julie, Erin, and Katie, customers also want to see the clothing on a woman closer to her own size and age.

Therefore, beginning with the Summer Collection, in a dozen or so photographs, online, I will be wearing the same exact outfit as it is shown on the model! This change forced me to stretch my comfort zone, to do more listening than talking, and to rely on the judgement of then Ulla Popken design team, Diane and Alicia.

I wear a size 20 and I'm old enough to be the mother of our models. Lets just say I've been dressing my own way for a long time - perhaps too long. I've got thighs, arms and a tummy that, well, I'd prefer to hide. Turning myself over to Diane and Alica took a dose of courage.

We met at 7:30 in the morning. Diane and Alicia were already there, drinking coffee, and chatting about what they had to accomplish that day - business as usual for them. I, on the other hand, was a bit nervous but excited at the same time. Previously, I chose my own clothing for Babe's Picks, so this was a change for me - frankly, a big change. Heck, why should I listen to them? I dress pretty well, get lots of compliments and even get paid to dress other women!

They had prepared 16 outfits, and our goal was to select and photograph 12 outfits. Suffice it to say, we couldn't pick less than 14 because they just looked so good and were so beautiful. The rich, saturated colors, the white pants, the vibrant patterns, the leggings, the capris, the hankie hem, the batik duster --- were among the things I would never have tried on my own, and yet, I truly loved them on me!!!

As I reflected on the day, it would seem I took away greater insight into Ulla's exclusive designs:
  • Diane and Alicia are experts at designing for plus size women and have earned the reputation as being the trusted authority.
  • A variety of well-chosen fabrics and cuts are selected to do some of the 'hiding'.
  • Much of Ulla's clothing is designed around 'smart-prints' - which strategically direct the eye.
  • Cuts that appear Boho or non-traditional do a great job of flattering the silhouette.
  • If you don't allow yourself to think, dress and live 'outside the box' - you only get what's in the box.

Perhaps the best part of what I took away was actually the clothing itself! I can't wait for the weather to warm up so I can get out and about and wear my exciting, expanded wardrobe. :)

What have you tried that's 'outa the box?' Did it work?

Babe
Ulla Popken Stylist & Blogger
Feel good in what you wear!

12 comments:

Ann said...

Hi Babe, I admire you for trying things that you wouldn't normally, however I have to say a few outfits didn't work. I thought the red dress and the red top made you look twice your size. The blue floral 3 piece was fantastic; previously I thought your own choices were excellent. This doesn't mean some of the clothes wouldn't look good on other figure types but I didn't order some things based on the photos. Trust your own judgement Babe.

Debby said...

I absolutely love seeing a woman like Babe model the clothes and I love the comfortable, good-looking casual outfits-which I really need for the warm weather. I think Babe is not only gorgeous but she's for real.

Dianna said...

Babe, Thanks for these "colorful" ideas. I am so often stuck to "basic black". You remind me that I should not be afraid of bringing color into my wardrobe!

Anonymous said...

Hi Ann,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I love Secret Garden, the floral 3 piece too! It's so soft and graceful.

I've loved wearing them all but here are my absolute top five: Artsy-Chic, Summer IT Piece, Eclipse, One Moonlit Night and Fade & Focus.

What think?

Babe

Anonymous said...

Hi Debby,
I know what you mean..warm weather dressing can be a challenge and it's the one season that always needs to be refreshed.

Glad you saw some items you like!

Thanks for posting.
Babe

Anonymous said...

Hi Dianna,
I know, right, black is so easy but color makes you feel energized!

Thanks,
Babe

Gerri said...

Babe,
I think your "Picks" are great, they appeal to a variety of tastes & body types. The photos of you in these fashions help me to visualize myself in the clothes, which helps me purchase Ulla's clothes.

Ann said...

Hi again Babe, I should point out that I bought the black and white duster for my daughter and the batik duster for myself based on your photos. I'm delighted that you are modelling the clothes, I really am attracted to 'cool colors' in summer and I also really liked blushing blouse and forever summer. Keep up the good work!

Anonymous said...

Gerri,
That is so good to hear!
Thank you!
Babe

Anonymous said...

Ann,
Thank you for both writing back and your encouraging words. You made two great choices - enjoy!
Babe

Donna said...

How fabulous to finally see someone modeling the clothes who really buys plus sized clothes! I'm shocked that I am seriously considering the white pants for what I consider the most difficult season to dress, after seeing how great they look on Babe. I do get in a rut with my black outfits all the time, seldom trying something new. Hats off to Babe and Ulla Popken for giving us the opportunity to see what these clothes will really look like on us! Any chance of doing this with a lot more of the outfits?
Donna

Anonymous said...

Hi Donna,
Hopefully many customers will appreciate this presentation as much as you do, our intent is to do a dozen or so 'Picks' each season.

Thanks for asking!

Best,
Babe