Wardrobe Building: A Foundation of Physical and Emotional Comfort

“To be a fashionable woman is to know yourself, know what you represent, and know what works for you. To be ‘in fashion’ could be a disaster on 90% of women. You are not a page out of Vogue.”-Author Unknown

Shopping for plus size women can be either exhausting or exhilarating – the choice is yours. To make it fun and productive, I suggest three things:

• Develop a Pretty Party Portfolio
• Inventory your closet ruthlessly
• Develop a shopping plan

A Pretty Party Portfolio is a plastic accordion envelope with 12 compartments. This becomes the place where you identify and organize your wish list. Each time you come across something that intrigues you from a magazine or catalog, cut it out and put it in the correct section (tops, bottoms, dresses, jackets, footwear, jewelry, handbags, etc.). While you may not purchase the specific item you’ve identified, often you can replicate the style or feature that is appealing in an item that is appropriate for you. This is how you inform and inspire yourself before shopping, and get real bang for your buck!

Next, inventory your closet. If you haven’t worn it in a year or more, repair, donate or trash it. If an item is attractive but not right for you for any reason, physical or emotional, let it go, make room for the things you love and will wear. I’ve heard it said that women do NOT wear between 70-80% of what’s in their closet.

From what remains in your closet, put together several outfits, carefully identify a shopping plan based on what is missing to make the outfit complete and in ready-to-walk-out-the-door condition. Start a list or use the Essential Inventory Card, shown here and referred to in my book, Pretty Plus. You need at least two go-to outfits for every occasion of your lifestyle. This is the beginning of developing a shopping plan and building a wardrobe that works for YOU!

Please help me start a conversation here by commenting on:

My fashion wants and needs are…

Babe

Body Frames: A Balancing Act

The inimitable Coco Chanel said “Fashion is architecture: it’s a matter of proportions,” so while my size (and budget) bars Chanel labels from my closet; Chanel wisdom thrives there. Proportion is about understanding your body frame, leading to my concept of Fade and Focus which will help you pick flattering, fashionable items every time you shop.

Your frame is the basic shape of your body, the size of one body part compared to others, regardless of how much you weigh. Did you know that your body frame can be likened to the shape of a diamond? So, why not call yourself, “a round diamond?” I do.

Pear Shape Diamond

Smaller through the arms, shoulders and breasts, however, has wider hips, tush, thighs and calves.

Balance wide hips by inserting a small shoulder pad your top.

Heart Shape Diamond

Broad and full through the arms, shoulders and ribcage, however, narrows through the hips, thighs, and legs.

Use dark, muted colors on top and bold shades or patterns on the bottom.

Marquise Shape Diamond

Thinner arms, shoulders, hips, tush and legs, however, has a full tummy.

Wear tops that are fitted through the arms and shoulders and fall into an A-line - interesting patterns through the tummy can actually distract from puffiness.

Round Shape Diamond

Round and full through the arms, shoulders, back, tummy, hips and thighs, however, has a noticeable waist and shapely legs. If you’re confused about which diamond shape you are – if you’re curvy but proportionate - and have a waist, this is your frame.

Wear dresses and skirts that hit the bottom of your knee to show off shapely legs.

Emerald Shape Diamond

Wide and full from the shoulders and arms through the hips, thighs and legs and has no appreciable indentation at the waist. If you’re confused about your frame – and you’re proportionate but straight up and down, this is your frame.

Wear items that that have gentle curvy lines embedded through cut or pattern.

Stop hiding behind your clothes. Wear sleeker items where you can to promote a shapely, smart silhouette. Not being aware of your shape causes the biggest mistakes and wastes money. Knowing which diamond you are, however, is the beginning of manufacturing the silhouette you seek, consistently.

If you’re still unsure, Ask Babe…”Am I a marquise or a round shape diamond?”

Send in photos of yourself, which I’ll post on the site to help you and others determine your diamond, and I’ll suggest some styles that will complement too!

Babe

GIVE-AWAY! What I Look For In An Anchor Piece

ULLA POPKEN IS GIVING AWAY ONE OF THE ANCHOR PIECES HIGHLIGHTED BELOW TO THE FIRST 10 LADIES TO RESPOND TO THIS POST!

I love this pink jacket! This jacket is a great example of an anchor piece, it is also what I call a go-to item, and they often overlap.

I look for three things in an anchor piece:

1. It has the muscle to be the backbone of many outfits, and can reach across the different facets of my lifestyle: casual, career and special occasion.
2. It is a go-to item, it flatters every time.
3. Its coloration and fabrication make it easy to identify the right accessories.

Here’s why the Sparkle Stretch Knit Jacket, which I’m wearing in this video, works for me.

1. It has the muscle to work with one of my three signature looks: the long, uninterrupted column of black underneath (tank top and skirt or slacks,) giving me casual, career and dressy options. It will also work with a white lace tank top and jeans.
2. It is cut well and the fabric drapes lean but doesn’t cling: flattering princess seaming, vertical lines of detail (seams and buttons) both of which are emphasized by leaving the jacket partially open.
3. The fabric is shot with a gold metallic thread so I know that gold jewelry will accessorize well and the pink color flows right into the coordinating print floral scarf, which together, polish the outfit.

An anchor piece doesn’t have to be a jacket, but let’s consider these top pieces for now, each one could be a go-to item:

• Shawl Collar Matte Jersey Jacket

• Animal Print Jacket

• Sheer Abstract Color Tunic Duster

• Stone Detail Stretch Top

The GIVE-AWAY!

Ulla Popken is pleased to give away your choice of one of these items to the first ten bloggers to respond to babehope1@gmail.com. All we ask in return, is you review the product and share your review within 30 days. It's that simple. Reviews should be sent to babehope1@gmail.com. We'll post the reviews on Talking It U.P.

In the meantime, we'd love to hear from you. Please post what you look for in an anchor piece or any questions you may have regarding this topic.

Babe

Strategic Black and Other Comfort Zones

Imagine standing in front of your closet still half asleep and instinctively knowing what to reach for, when you need an outfit that will make you feel pretty and confident in a snap. Reach for strategic black: You know this outfit will work every time – that’s what I call a comfort zone!

Strategic Black requires that you know yourself. What part of your body do you want to accentuate and what part do you want to minimize? Strategic Black, using black (or deep muted) coloration in a flat matte jersey (or similar fabrication) to minimize AND bursts of color or interest (within the garment, outfit or accessories) to focus attention. If it’s all black, it may be spectacular, but it’s not “strategic” - every wardrobe has room for both!

Especially after the holidays, life is just easier when you have identified at least two strategic black outfits for each occasion of your lifestyle – casual, career and special occasion. There should never be a time when you feel frustrated because you have “nothing to wear.” Here are a few easy examples of strategic black:

Strategic Black within the Outfit:

• Matte Jersey Straight Leg Pants (Choose the slacks to create a sleeker lower half.)
  

Strategic Black within the Item:

• Water Stripe Stretch Tie-Dye Hoodie Outfit (Choose the hoodie to elongate and trim upper torso.)

• Embroidered Stretch Knit Dress (Choose this dress to emphasize a waist and soften puffy arms and hips.)

• Ikat Colorblock Knit Dress (Choose this dress to create balance between a large bust and arms and a smaller lower half.)

• Moody Blue Batik Tunic (Choose this tunic to draw attention to the neckline and chest and soften a larger tummy, hips and thighs.)

Strategic Black Questions answered here!!

Using Strategic Black is the beginning of understanding your body frame and how to achieve the illusion of balance and harmony. If you have questions about how to make Strategic Black work for you, all you have to do is ask!

Babe

Muzzle the Scale: Empowerment is Not a Number

The title of this week's blog was inspired by the work of Geneen Roth, author of Women Food and God.

"You're sailing along in life, feeling pretty good about everything, even your body. No, it isn't perfect, but it is yours and it's doing what it's supposed to do - mowing the lawn, ironing your skirt, playing baseball with the kids. Then you get on the scale. You weigh more than you thought you did, and within a nanosecond, the scary voice in your mind begins to rant: 'You're fat, you're a failure, you don't deserve to feel good about anything!' Suddenly everything that was right before you stepped on the scale is wrong."

What's wrong with this picture? The number on the scale says how much you weigh but not who you are, where you stand, what you achieve, how you love - or even, how good you look. Perhaps these are the benchmarks that matter. When you think of phenomenal women, I doubt the scale is a relevant tool of assessment at all. I doubt they are putting their life on hold weighting for the scale to reflect a lower number before living their life to the fullest.

What makes some women phenomenal? How do some women manage to get it all done? Anais Nin said, "Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."

Ulla Popken is proud to put the spotlight on inspirational women through our new video blog series called Living It U.P. These phenomenal women are role models who help each of us muzzle the scale!

In our first video, The Sky's the Limit, meet model Julie Henderson and our first Living It U.P. phenomenal woman, Yvonne Baldwin. Very inspiring! Thank you, Yvonne!

If you know a special woman, like Yvonne, who is Living It U.P. , please nominate her, by March 14, 2011. Nominations can be made for someone else or yourself. The next selection will be made in April. We will shoot the video in May and post it on this site in June. In the meantime, please share your personal stories of inspiration with us, right here, at Talking It U.P.

Babe

Rockin' the Red Dress

For the last 50 years, the movie industry has been captivated by a woman in red. For good reason: there's something about a red dress, especially on Valentine's Day, that can really rev up your star power.

My secret to rockin' a red dress is threefold:

1. Choose hosiery and heels (even a kitten heel) in the same coloration to lengthen and narrow your silhouette, black with black, nude with silver or gold. If you are a person of color, choose pewter or bronze. You want your shoes to match your skin tone as closely as possible.

2. Select sexy, feminine accessories like an evening bag or bold jewelry. Choose accessories that are bold and significant enough for women of our stature.

3. Wear a firm, full-length slip underneath. The slip should be fitted through the bust and drape snuggly from a high, empire waist, and that will help create a flattering shape, smooth out bumps for an overall toned quality. Did I mention the color? Black. The texture? Satin. And that will take care of the rest of the evening!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Babe

Red Surplice Tieback Stretch Knit Dress
Red Stretch Knit Velvet Surplice Dress
Red Matte Jersey Gathered Maxi Dress
Camel or Black Open Toe Sling-Back
Bronze or Black Sling-Back
Carol for Eva Graham Jet Bead Necklace

New Year's Resolutions: Silence the Hungry Heart

My relationship with food caused the metaphor "didn't fit in" to become my literal truth, pushing me to the outskirts of certain social circles, including fashion circles. Food became my knee-jerk reaction to everything: celebration, sorrow, boredom and friendship. Each new January, for more than I care to count, I would resolve to lose weight...and falter within days (if not hours).

I'm not sure what I was afraid of - life or living it plus size - I thought dieting was the answer to everything. Then life dealt me three awakenings and I learned the only thing I had feared was fear itself.

A diet was not the answer for me. I decided to make fashion fun and to make its accoutrements work for me. I decided to stop the pity party and launch a pretty party. I identified one area in particular that detracted from my overall appearance and turned it into my star-quality signature. I'll reveal that and my three awakenings to you in time, as we get to know each other better.

I've learned that there is no enemy. Today my New Year's resolutions focus on nurturing those I love and me as well.

I'd love to hear your New Year's resolutions especially those that nurture and encourage. Please share them. Girlfriends, the days of starving to fit in are over!

Babe

Talking it U.P.

Join Babe Hope as we launch our new community site - Talking it U.P. Talking it U.P. is more than a blog it's a community of women encouraging each other to be their personal best. We will discuss topics of interest to you. We'll share videos of inspirational women and some great fashion advice. Babe Hope will moderate and she has a passion for fashion with compassion. We'll turn the pity party into a pretty party with fun along the way.

We look forward to you joining us and hearing from you. We know you'll be glad you did.

Who Is Babe Hope?

I'm Babe Hope, the author of Pretty Plus: How To Look Sexy, Sensational and Successful No Matter What You Weigh. I'm also a stylist and personal shopper for women of all ages and shapes. My goal is to help women look their personal best. I love to empower women with tools to help turn their pity party into a pretty party! This is the message of "Talking It U.P." which I am so very happy to assume the helm of today!

A big problem women who wear plus sizes have is that much of the available fashion advice comes from fashion editors who live on tofu and lettuce leaves and therefore can't understand the angst and challenge of being a large woman. I get it because I face the same mirror you do, daily. I am a large, beautiful woman.

It wasn't always that simple for me. I haven't always felt beautiful. I weighed over 200 pounds when I graduated from high school. I've been on every diet. Decades later, I'm disappointed that I invested my energy and resources in diets instead of self-acceptance and in the sheer joy of a plus size pretty party. The opportunity was there, but I couldn't embrace it. Yet it is precisely that journey that led me to where I am today.

I'm excited to start this new year with you and Talking It U.P. Stick with me and I'll share all the secrets I've learned along the way.

A New Year's toast then to us, Girlfriends...The pity party was yesterday. Today we launch the pretty party!

Babe

Let Ulla Dazzle You!

We all know you love Ulla's clothing, now come see a different side of us, our accessories! Now you can pair that little black dress with the perfect necklace, or bracelet. And don't forget, fall and winter are the perfect times to accessorize with fashionable scarves.

Come check out the side of Ulla that sparkles!

Bundle Up!

Fall weather is fast approaching; why not liven up your cool weather wardrobe with a pop of color? A great way to add some fun to any ensemble is to change your normal routine with a bright and colorful coat! We have plenty to choose from here at Ulla Popken, whether you are looking for a dramatic red, or cheereful green we have you covered!

Also, don't forget to check out some of our newest asymmetrical designs. You are sure to find at least a few items you can't live without!

Pictured: Item #05120, Flirty Swing Coat. Color: Sweet Pea

Tell Us What YOU Think!

Have an opinion about our products? We'd love to hear from you! Be the first to REVIEW our products at the NEW UllaPopken.com!

Tell us what you think about our products. Your feedback will allow us to continually improve our designs and offer the quality and consistent fit you expect from Ulla Popken.

Write a REVIEW on our products TODAY!

Everyone Loves A Sale!

Have you gotten a chance to check out our Fall Sale items? Hurry, while supplied last! You dont want to miss this chance to grab your favorite Ulla Popken looks, at a great price. The best part is that you can get some great items at a discount, before the season even begins... talk about a good deal!

Want to share your favorite Fall Ulla item? Let everyone know your picks!

Fall into Great Fashion!

All the signs are there, seeing big yellow school buses on the roads, pools preparing to close, and every once in a while a breeze of cool air comes our way. We all have to admit it; fall is on its way. Living on the east coast, we show a sign of each season, and as much as I love summer, by the time fall rolls around I am ready to welcome it. It is a nice change to wear long sleeve tee's and feel comfortable in pants. The temperature is still warm enough to wear sandals and flip flops, but enough of an evening breeze that you can comfortably wear a light jacket. You also can't help but be interesed in the new clothes that come out for fall, especially if you are the type of person who loves to see new styles and trends!

As we prepare for another change in season, remember, there is a bright-side to the end of summer, you get to go shopping!

Item #05525, Organic Flounce Jacket pictured in Spruce

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes!

What girl doesn't love shoes? We have worked long and hard to find the perfect shoes and boots to offer our customers. We have taken your comments, throughts and requests into consideration when planning our new line of shoes. Ulla has the best buyer in shoes, Joe, working for you. We think we have a pretty good selection to start you off with, trust us, because Joe knows shoes.

Check them out; we dare you to not love them!

Ahhh, the Sweet Life!

Is it just me or is the weather this year absolutley crazy?! A record number of blizzards this winter, and to top it off a blazing hot summer to say the least! However, we all still have to remember that we are in the middle of one of the best seasons (vastly decided by age, kids love it- parents often dread it) of the year. The carefree days of summer, people seem to be in better moods, due to the great energy we get from the sun, or is it the wonderful creative of Air Conditioning? I know everyone around the country is sizzling with temperatures ranging from 85-95+ degrees but remember to enjoy the days of summer.

When in the sun, don't forget!
+ Reapply sunscreen every two hours to prevent from burning
+ Stay hydrated with water or sports drinks
+ Find an area that has some shade, so you can escape the heat

Want to beat the heat?
+ Got to a matinee movie
+ Take your beach chair to the waters edge and sit with your feet in the water
+ Have a water balloon fight

What are your tips and tricks to keeping cool this summer?

A $500 Shopping Spree on Us!

Meet the lucky winner of our Sweepstakes drawing, Patricia Hunt from Rochester, NY. Her name was drawn from over 5,700 entries last week.

Pat will be well on her way to shopping our catalog and online collection with a $500 shopping spree on Ulla!

We will hold our next drawing in October, enter now for your chance to be our next winner!

Sweepstakes Entry

Ulla's Fall Preview

You may have noticed our newest catalog being delivered to you this week. We are proud to introduce our Fall Preview! I know what you may be thinking, "Fall?!? Summer just started!" Yes, this is true, however, we have been careful to include items that can be worn straight through summer into fall. Take our Crochet Empire Dress, #04237 for example, this is the perfect look for both summer and fall. Pair cute sandals with this dress for those cool summer nights, you will stay comfortable with loose 3/4 length sleeves and A-line fit. By the time fall rolls around you can add leggings and flats and continue wearing this fantasic dress in style!

Pictured: Item #04237, in burgundy

Don't Forget to Cover Up!

So you're heading to the beach, let's review the checklist:

Sunglasses, check!
SPF, check!
Tropical Drink, check!
Magazine, check!

Now the only other thing you need to go great with your fantastic Ulla Popken bathing suit is a perfect cover up. Have you checked out our selection? We have the style for any preference. Need to get out of the sun? Try our Cotton Gauze Caftan, #02291. Do you want to cover up, but still get some sun on your shoulders and arms? You need our Knit Flounce Cover Up, #02598 (pictured). Want to show off a sexy suit? Try our Shimmer Lace Duster, #02454.

Come see Ulla's great selection of beachwear! Now your checklist is finally complete!

Celebrate, With Savings!

Once Memorial Day rolls around we see an increase in outdoor events, cookouts and parties. For some this holiday marks the beginning of summer, and days of leisure. If you haven't already, you may want to break out the shorts and tank tops, and make some fresh lemonade. When you have had your fill of being outside enjoying nice weather (we hope!) and gatherings with friends and family, remember you can snag some great Ulla items without even leaving the comfort of your own home!

We will be available to take calls this coming holiday weekend everyday from 8am-12am EST and of course, you can shop at any time you would like online! We look forward to hearing from you.

Have a great Memorial Day.

Join Us!

If you have not visited our Facebook page yet, come check us out! Discover what many already have, you will see behind the scenes of our photoshoot, have a chance to take part in special promtions and sales as well as talk with other Ulla fans!

Become a fan, click HERE!

Back to the Drawing Board!

Its that time again, we would like to know how we can improve. We know you have been thinking it, so please feel free to let us know!

How can Ulla Popken improve?

Behind the Scenes: An Ulla Popken Photo Shoot!

Have you ever wondered what goes into making a new catalog spread? Have you thought about the number of people involved to make it all happen? We have taken some insider, behind the scenes photos of our latest photo shoot. Our winter 2010 collection was the focus of our adventure in beautiful Aspen, Colorado

To check out more photos visit our Facebook page!

Our April Sweepstakes Winner!

Congratulations to Sonia Parsons from Delmar, MD! She is the lucky winner of our $500 shopping spree! Her name was chosen from over 4,700 entries.

Don't forget to sign up for our Sweepstakes; we will draw our next lucky winner in July!

Just think of all the great Ulla Popken clothing YOU could get with $500 (on us!). Remember there is no limit to the number of times you can enter... I wonder who will win the next time around!

Let the Good Times Roll!

I am sure it is no shock that most of us feel better when we are in the company of friends and family. Often times all it takes to make your day a little better is to be surrounded by people you care about.

Enjoy the spring weather that is upon us and take this time to spend time with your friends and family. Go for a walk in the park, go on a shopping spree with friends, or just sit and relax! It may just be a little thing that can make a big difference.

It's Your Chance!

Now is your chance to ask us at Ulla a question that has been on your mind. Maybe you have been wondering where our last photo shoot took place, or what it is like to work here! Maybe you have a comment, suggestion or idea on how we could improve our catalog.

We are all ears, lay it on us!

Heat Wave!

Watch Out! Maryland (and the rest of the eastern shore) is preparing for a heat wave this weekend. Break out the swimsuits, frozen drinks and reserve your spot on the beach! Maybe wishful (and a little extreme) thinking but I can't help but be excited about the upcoming 80 degree temperatures we will be experiencing in the coming days. With lingering thoughts of the double blizzard that hit us a mere 2 months ago this warm weather could not have come at a better time. Hopefully this beautiful weather will finally get rid of all my memories of snow. Imagine this, for the first time in a few years us ladies will be able to wear much needed spring colored dresses, and open toed shoes for Easter and not freeze!

Enjoy this coming weekend's weather, and for many the extended Easter Holiday from all of us at Ulla Popken!

It's all in the Signs!

Thinking of myself as having a goodwill personality and carefree nature i have found myself using the phrase "it's a sign" more and more. To some it's a hopeful way of thinking everything will work out for them, or that the stars are somehow aligning to perfectly meet with ones needs. To others it is a way of looking on the bright side of life. After all, you will notice the more often you have a positive outlook the better you will feel. You will also notice more and more people are naturally attracted to a positive attitude!

I am by no means a motivations speaker, but I encourage you all to acknowledge the many 'signs' life throws our way!

Socialize with Us!

Check out our Facebook page, become a fan and enjoy some special perks from us.

* Visit our Events section to find special offers exclusive to Facebook fans

* Check out our Fashion Guide tab for the latest looks and trends

* Our weekly photo gallery which give you a first hand look at achieving the prefect styles!

.... and much much more!

Ulla's Facebook Page!

Upclose and Personal with Ulla Popken!

Ever wonder what it would be like to work for Ulla Popken? To have a say in the items we buy, and have all the inside information? Well we would like to give you a glimpse into life at Ulla! I asked our Assistant Buyer, Beth Neisser to let our bloggers know what she thinks about Ulla Popken and our clothing, her responses may surprise you!

Hollie: What new item are you most excited about?

Beth: Our branded line of swimsuits.
H: Which famous woman could you envision in Ulla?

B: Monique of course!

H: Which new item says 'Ulla' to you the most?

B: #02322, Metallic Jacket. Its unique, you can't just find it anywhere.

H: Any insider style tips to share?

B: Be daring, try something that you normally wouldnt. You might be surprised at how wonderful you look. Step out of your box!

(for this Beth recommends #02296 Ombre Surplice Dress)

H: What is your go-to dressy Ulla outfit?

B: #02465 & #02269 Crinkle Dress & Duster. It's a fabulous shade of brown and is a great fit. Also the Beaded Goddess Dress #02295 is a great fit, and I love green!!

H: Planning a vacation? What Ulla items would you bring?

B: For swim: #02919 'Aurora' skirted Miraclesuit w/#02598 Knit Flounce Coverup.

Casual: #02461 Tribal Print Tunic, #02276 Side Tie Dress (looks a million bucks on!). Can't forget the cool and flowing crepe seperates #02326 & #02834.

A special thank you to Beth for taking the time to share your thoughts in our Blog!

You Be the Judge!

You may have noticed the 'Customer Favorites' section of our webpage, this is where we take a very careful look at the buying activity of each seasons items. The garments that show to be most popular with our customers will be in that category. If you are new to Ulla check out this section first, you will get a good idea of our items and selection. This is also a great starting point when you just aren't quite sure what type of look you are going for. There is a huge selection of our most prized items in our customer favorites, be sure to check it out!

Here is your chance- what is your favorite Ulla item? Why do you love it?

Haven't You Heard?

Style Alert!!

Want a style tip straight from our fashion advisors? Lucky for you, you came to the right place! We want to let you in on a little secret…. Bright colors and fun styling will be taking over the fashion world this summer, and Ulla is ready! With a perfectly sweet silhouette and daringly bold colors our newest dress, the Ombre Surplice Dress #02296 is sure to be a head turner. Add some simple accessories and you have a look you are sure to love! (dress shown in teal multi)

Don’t forget to check out our other ombre styles: Embroidered Ombre Blouse #92427 available in Violet and Cherry, Ombre Tee #92543 available in Teal and Saffron, Ombre Emroidered Jacket #01368 available in Multi.

Keep Your Sanity in the Winter!

If you are living on the East Coast you know we have had a hard hit of winter weather this past weekend, and we are sure to get more in the coming days. I can remember being a little kid and getting so excited when it snowed, the sleigh riding and snowball fights were far more exciting than a typical day. Now that I have grown up I only enjoy it when there are a few inches; enough to blanket the ground, and little enough to quickly clear the streets! If you feel like this is too much of a winter wonderland for comfort remember there are plenty of ways to stay entertained while staying at home.

Cuddle up with a good book, play a game you haven't played in years, shop the internet, make a home-made dinner from scratch, or write in a journal. Take this time to slow down your busy, hectic life and do something YOU enjoy.

What helps get you out of the winter blues?

Red Carpet Glam!

If you watched the Golden Globes last week the main focus, as always, was the attire of the guests. Inevitably the following few days are filled with best and worst dressed lists, and who’s wearing who. Have you ever noticed that the best dressed list always includes an elegant, flowing dress? We certainly have, which is why we are pleased to bring back a customer favorite. The Goddess Dress #91282, available in both black and chocolate. (shown in chocolate)

Everyone needs a special occasion dress that will compliment your style. So try our Goddess Dress, with a perfectly graceful silhouette which flatters any body shape, this is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

You Be The First!

It’s never too early to buy the perfect blouse, one that you can wear during the day or at night. A blouse that is perfect in everyway, and is a customer favorite! For the ideal transition to spring you will want the Floral Print Blouse #91443. Last years response on this blouse was tremendous, so don’t get caught on the waiting list this year! We have added a new color-brown; so begin thinking about your new Spring look and come check out how Ulla Popken can bring out the best in you!

Pictured: Floral Print Blouse #91443, Color: White.

New Tips, for the New Year!

It probably won’t come as a shock to you that Ulla Popken is always looking for ways to make our product, customer service, you name it, better! We are taking all your wonderful comments and suggestions from 2009 into careful thought and consideration. We would also like to hear what you think we can improve on for the New Year! Help us make 2010 your best year with Ulla!

We want to know: The Good, Bad, and the Ugly!

Post Holiday Shopping Tips!

It’s amazing how quickly the Holidays can come and go! Luckily for us, we can take full advantage of store sales and special discounts. Now is the perfect time to put all those gift certificates to use! Check out some of our discounted items, and allow your Holiday gift money to get you more than ever before. Why not get a head start on some transitional items for late winter early spring? And remember the easiest way to vamp up your wardrobe is to add one or two key items that can liven up any outfit!

Don’t forget to check out Ulla’s Brocade Swing Jacket # 81301, it’s a steal at a reduced $4.99 and its available in both colors and almost all sizes!

Happy Holiday Wishes!

The holiday season is upon us, now is the time to make your way out to the stores or shop online to find the perfect gift for friends and family. In this season of giving and special gatherings don’t forget this is also the perfect time to give- to yourself! Ulla Popken has many special occasion outfits that are sure to get you noticed, and wont go over your holiday budget.

Check out our Matte Jersey Tiered Swing Dress #95206, this stunning (and affordable) dress is perfect for every upcoming holiday event! Paired with the perfect pair of shoes and jewelry this dress will surely be a wardrobe favorite! Check out all our fabulous occasion wear under the Winter Occasion tab.

Bundle Up!

The Holidays are fast approaching, and with the first signs of winter’s chilly air we have to make wardrobe changes. Winter is one of the best times to show the greatest variety in your clothing. Layering is a big trend right now, and the upcoming season is the best time to try this. You can take your favorite summer or fall tee and pair it with a great sweater. Layering gives you more clothing choices to make your favorite items last the whole year!

Style Tip!
Try pairing the Empire Cardigan #85518 with a Long Sleeve Tee #74580. This versatile look can be worn buttoned for a warm and cozy feel, or unbuttoned for a casual comfortable look!

A Breath of Fresh Air!

We have just sent out our Spring Preview book! Since we know this book will be getting to our customers before the spring season starts we have included many items that dont have to sit in your closet for months! Check out item 01362, the Boyfriend Blazer, or the Swirl Print Dress item 01265. Get these hot new looks, and wear them now!

What do you think of Ulla's Spring Preview?

Back To Basics!

While staring at my closet, trying to find something to wear for the day I realized I have a fair amount of items that have always been a constant in my wardrobe. Ranging from professional clothing and girly dresses, to comfortable lounge pants and big sweatshirts. Many of our customers have requested we provide them with just that, certain items that are always there- both in the catalog and online.

What additional 'basic' items would you always like to see in our wardrobe?

Customer Picks!

Its that time again! You officially have the floor, and we are looking for any and all suggestions on ways we can improve, whether it be our webpage, merchandise, ordering process, etc. We are all ears! So let us know what WE could do that would make your experience with Ulla Popken even better!

Trendy Fall Style!

We have had a little taste of Fall weather on the East Coast, as those cool nights and refreshing breezes roll in our wardrobes begin to change. After a couple months of 90 degree temperatures I am ready for a change, and its also a little exciting to see what clothes have been stashed away since Spring and Summer. Sometimes jeans can feel a little too heavy during Summer months, but are the perfect solution for Fall!

Have you tried Ulla's *NEW Italian Stretch Jeans #95810?

Calling All Fashionista's!

We know you are out there, ladies who love fashion and love clothes. Here is your chance to share your favorite fashion tips! Let us know what Ulla items you LOVE, and how you incorporate the latest fashions into your everyday style!

Plaid has made its mark on the runway for Fall/Winter '09, what other runway style would you like to see Ulla adopt?

Fashion Tips and Tricks!

Ever feel like the newest styles are difficult to grasp? Check out Ulla Popken’s Plus-Size Fashion Glossary. Stop spending time deciphering ‘fashion lingo’, and more time looking for the perfect clothes for you! Once you check out our Glossary you will not know what you did without it!

Fashion Glossary!

Has our Inside Fashion Glossary helped you? What else would you find helpful?

The Long and Short of It!

Have you noticed the new way we are displaying our pants? We now have a cropped shot of the pants on both the website and in the catalog. We want to know if this is helping you in your buying?

Trend Tip: Ever thought about wearing Ulla's crop trends for the fall, crop pants are all the rage and are the perfect transition from Summer to Fall! Check out all our great crop pants online in the pants section (item #'s 91825 & 94621 shown above).

Tell Us What's on Your Mind!

As we have said before, we always love to hear how we can make improvements to facilitate your shopping experience. Who better to ask than loyal Ulla customers for feedback on our website? We want to know what you like about our site and what you dislike, and as always any suggestions for improvement!

Latest Trends!

Your requests for longer tops have been answered with trend tunics! We at Ulla Popken think this Moody Blue Batik Tunic (#94431) is an amazing look for the trendy plus size woman! This tunic’s fun design and multiple colors are the perfect transition from summer to fall. Check out all of Ulla’s tunics at our website www.ullapopken.com in our tunic category under blouses.

Our trend tunics are the perfect length, measuring at least 32” across all sizes. What is your favorite top length? Why?

Give Your Wardrobe A Makeover!

Everyone enjoys a makeover, who says your closet doesn’t deserve one too? Check out Ulla’s Fall Preview Book, you will not believe all the new styles we have in store for you! Get a head start on fall trends and fashions exclusively at Ulla Popken. I know the Print Surplice Knit Dress (# 94235) will be a hit.

What is your favorite fall item?

Ulla Goes Green!

Have you heard about the newst fashion trend? Organic cotton is all the rage and can now be found at Ulla Popken! All of our organic cotton items are made through a special 100% organic process, only natural materials are involved in the coloring and raw production of our clothing. I love how soft the Bamboo Cotton Sweater (# 92571) is and I feel even better about helping the environment.

Have you tried Ulla's Organic Cotton yet? What do you like most about it?

Tell Ulla What You Think!

We want to make the shopping experience as easy on you as we can! Here is your chance to tell us what would help you. Would you like to be able to sort all jackets and tops by sleeve length while you are shopping online?

Let us know what you want!