A celebrated emblem of American culture, blue jeans are without a doubt one of the most beloved garments the fashion world has ever known. Tried, tested and true, they’ve survived decades of experimentation and reinvention. But as essential as they are to our casual dress code, the struggle to find the right pair can be as arduous as digging for water in the desert.

For curvy girls, that’s where Addition Elle comes in.

The plus-size fashion experts know what it takes to balance length, cut and fit to create a pair that is as comfortable as it is complimentary; in other words, a pair that the full-figured lady will fall in love with at first fit.

So take a look at these four different styles that cater to four distinctive silhouettes, and see which one of them sweeps you off your feet.

Straight and shaped

Gently curved from waist to hip, shaped silhouettes call for straight-leg jeans at sit at the waist, hug the hips, and follow the legs straight down to the heels. In other words, this fit will define your shapely hourglass figure without over-emphasizing it.

The look you’ll love: Dress up your straight-leg denims for a night out on the town with a flutter-sleeve blouse, an extra-long necklace, and a pair of platform pumps.

Boot-cut and curvy

It’s all in the hips for you curvy beauties and boot-cut jeans are your match made in heaven: small at the waist, and fuller around the hips, thighs, and derriere, their slight flare comes in to balance out your curves.

The look you’ll love: Take casual Fridays to a whole new level of style by pairing your boot-cut denims with a curvy perfect-fit blouse and a chic Michel Studio blazer.

Flared and full-figured

Lucky for you full-figured ladies, flared jeans are an “it” item this fall. The season’s throwback to the ‘70s is perfect for women that span the shaped to curvy silhouettes.

The look you’ll love: Give your look that boho-inspired edge by pairing your flared jeans with an embroidered peasant blouse, stackable filigree bangles, and oversized hoops.

Skinny and versatile

Suitable for women of all shapes and sizes, skinny jeans (or jeggings if the fabric is stretchy) fit snuggly around your body and smooth out your silhouette from waist to heel.

The look you’ll love: As soon as the cooler temperatures kick in, cozy up in your skinny jeans, a Fair Isle knit sweater, and a pair of wool-trim booties.

The lesson to be learned? Love your curves, ladies. There shall be no more squeezing into a pair of jeans that doesn’t fit right: Addition Elle has the styles you need to look and feel fabulous, regardless of your shape and size. No style-loving lady should settle for anything less.

Cate Cadbury Fashion Expert for Addition Elle

It was a phrase first coined by the legendary Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in the 1920s. In Breakfast at Tiffany’s,the iconic Audrey Hepburn eternalized it as an everlasting symbol of elegance. And for nearly a century now, it has been an enduring staple for all women of taste.

It is none other than the little black dress.

Always appropriate and always in style, the LBD is an undisputed fashion must that plus-size women the world over relish for its streamlining effect on the silhouette. And this season, Addition Elle’s lineup of LBDs is anything but ordinary. Sneak a peek at these four distinct looks.

Down to business

The little black dress is to the career woman what Manolo Blahniks are to Carry Bradshaw: a wardrobe essential that is an integral part of the persona. So if you’re going to walk the walk in any professional setting, opt for the 9-to-5-ready belted sheath dress. It guarantees coverage for your arms and thighs, and defines your figure by cinching your waist.

Keep within the same palette with black patent-leather heels, stackable bracelets, and black hoop earrings. Add in a little black clutch, and this adaptable look can carry you effortlessly into any formal event.

Strapless and stunning

The ultimate party dress, the strapless LBD is as suitable for chic social affairs as it is for holiday festivities. Addition Elle’s satiny version features a flattering sweetheart neckline, figure-forgiving pleats, and a waist-defining sash to create an irresistible hourglass shape.

Statement jewelry—like an oversized cocktail ring or a chunky necklace—will turn this already-stunning look into a notice-me-now outfit. Top it off with a bead-embellished box clutch and sky-high stilettos.

Statement-making asymmetry

While the one-shoulder LBD was overdone in years past by a certain Kardashian beauty, asymmetry is still a great way to put a twist on the timeless staple. Addition Elle adds in ruching and cascading ruffles in its own version of the design with a lopsided neckline.

Dressing up for a night of fine dining? Be bold and beautiful by incorporating splashes of eye-catching colors in your overall style, like a pair of crimson party shoes and matching lipstick. You’re guaranteed to steal the spotlight without even trying.

Take the plunge

V-necks are a curvy girl’s best friend when it comes to streamlining the bustline. Addition Elle’s ultra-adaptable little black buckle dress is a top pick for any occasion with its plunging neckline, subtle cinching at the waist, cap sleeves, and knee-length hem.

Wear this shapely dress to the office with a perfectly tailored blazer, and switch up your style come happy hour by adding dangling earrings and layering on hammered bangles.

Evidently, it doesn’t take much to turn this quintessential staple into something spectacular—which perhaps is what makes the little black dress so appealing in the first place. After all, Chanel said it best: simplicity is indeed the keynote of all true elegance.


Cate Cadbury Fashion Expert for Addition Elle

Ever thought you’d finally found the perfect pair of pants, only to be proven wrong in the dressing room? The gaping, the squeezing, the bunching… It’s frustrating and demoralizing. Except, of course, if you’re shopping at Addition Elle.

This place is like a mecca for full-figured women. They recognize that not all body types are alike (finally!) and have a Perfect Fit system in place to help you identify whether you’re slim, shaped, curvy, or versatile. Once you’ve determined your type, it’s all about unleashing your personal sense of style. And that’s where the fun begins.

Here are some hints as to what’s hot this spring:

Love & Legend (and versatility)

Addition Elle’s Love & Legend line of branded denim is your key to casual Fridays: these all-purpose, plus size jeans will take you seamlessly from office hour to cocktail hour and beyond. Get the look by pairing them with a fooler cardigan, a stylish watch, and fashion earrings. This is versatility at its best.

The skinny on the skinny

Skinny jeans, jeggings, and leggings have become wardrobe staples in the last few years. Their slimming effect, their mix-and-match capabilities, and their all-around comfort make them must-haves for spring. Get the look with a pair of knit jeggings, a white shirttail long tunic, and a long cluster necklace with matching earrings.

Classy-chic

Career women can fill up their closets with classy 9-to-5 pieces that transition perfectly into chic dinner attire. Get the look by pairing your trusty black slacks with a lace camisole and cardigan, or freshen it up with a belted safari blouse.

Perfect Fit Pants and killer discounts? I’d say it’s high time for an early spring shopping spree.

Cate Cadbury Fashion Expert for Addition Elle

Bijoux -- Merriam Webster : une petite pièce délicate, habituellement ornementale, représentant un travail minutieux.
Bijoux -- Larousse : objet de parure précieux par la matière ou par le travail
Bijoux -- Addition Elle : l’accessoire parfait pour compléter votre tenue!

Des accessoires mode tailles plus spécialement conçus pour la femme avec des rondeurs. Addition Elle propose un vaste choix de bagues, de bracelets et de montres-bracelets à mailles, qui s’ajustent pour un confort assuré. Les colliers, plus longs que ceux de tailles standards, tombent élégamment sur nos vêtements tailles plus. 

Les bijoux passe-partout faits d’argent, d’or, de bronze et d’hématite lisses ou texturés, sont résolument dernier cri. Voyez les billes aux teintes mode de turquoise, rouge, violet et vert qui s’harmonisent à nos robes et corsages mode. 

 De sobre et chic à volumineux et osé, démarquez-vous en portant un unique bijou délicat ou plusieurs pour un look qui tranche – facile et abordable puisque le 2^e bijou est gratuit!

 


Bijoux -- Miriam Webster: a small, dainty, usually ornamental piece of delicate workmanship.
Bijoux -- Larousse : object de parure precieux par la matiere ou par le travail
Bijoux -- Addition Elle: the perfect accessory to compliment your outfit!

Plus size fashion accessories that fit, custom made for curvy women.  Addition Elle has a wide selection of rings, bracelets & multi link watches that adjust for perfect comfort. Necklaces, slightly longer than those found in regular size stores, drape elegantly over plus size fashion.

Versatile pieces that make a fashion statement, featuring items in sleek or textured silver, gold, bronze and hematite.  Watch for the season's trendy colors in turq, red, purple and green beading that mix and match with fashion tops and dresses.

Simple and elegant, chunky and bold, make a delicate statement with a single piece or layer multiple pieces for a unique look - easy & affordable as you buy one and get one free! 

Spring is right around the corner, time to give your wardrobe a boost.  Here are some of the key items to watch for this season -


Color 

Bright, bold color will perk up your wardrobe, your mood and your neutrals.   


Sparkle up

Accessorize with chunky silver bangles and chains, belts and long printed scarves.

Icy Pastels

Soft sorbet shades layer well under both black and white bottoms and tops for a crisp, cool look.   



Perfect Fit Pants

Tailored cuts fit and flatter the plus size figure. No matter if you are a slim, shaped or curvy woman, you'll find your perfect fit in dress pants and denim at Addition Elle.










Pencil me in

Pencil yourself into a slimming knee Length pencil skirt, or slip into a longer a line skirt -- both hemlines work for full figure women, layered over or under Spring tops.


Pick a Print

Fresh abstract florals, graphic black & white, stripes and metallic touches make finding the perfect print easier than ever.


Feminine Cargo

The military influence continues with softer, feminine touches. Look for belts, pockets, rolled cuffs and hems. The utilitarian look can be dressed up or down, worn head to toe or as an accent piece.




Nautical

A classic, fresh, timeless look - navy or white bottoms under striped or solid tops, a splash of red and yellow, and you're off to work or play.







Head to Toe

We can never have enough shoes! The wedge makes a repeat performance this season.  Updated wedges are predominantly strappy, embellished with buckles or bling, and come in brights, metallic and neutrals. 

What is your favourite trend this season?

Finding the right dress for dressy summer events can be troublesome.  If you are looking to wow, you don't want to be wearing the same dress as someone else!

At Penningtons, we understand how difficult it can be to find a unique dress that's right for you.  That's why we pride ourselves on our extensive selection of dresses for curvy women and plus size special occasion clothing.

This tube dress will soon be your favorite dress for a night on the town. You can get it in solid black or a variety of colours and prints. And Even better it easily converts to a skirt!  
Available in sizes: X-5X
• Item: 233020

Visit us at our online store by clicking here to see our entire collection of one-of-a-kind dresses.

Socialize with us! Check us out on Twitter and Facebook.
 

You met Sophie in an earlier blog, (Happy Anniversary St Bruno, April 2009)  when she hosted the 30Th anniversary fashion show at our St Bruno store. 

She moved to our flagship store recently and held her first (of many) Addition Elle Ste. Catherine Street Fall Fashion show yesterday evening.  Kudos to both Sophie, and her amazing team on an extraordinary evening! 

Over 100 loyal and new customers framed the runway as our staff and customers showcased Addition Elle and MXM Fall plus size fashion.   The show started with key pieces from the City collection, and worked through MXM's trendy plus size outfits- with lots of 'oohs and aahs' as the curvy ladies sashayed down the runway.

Our models took the stage wrapped up in Addition Elle Winter coats and jackets.  Beautifully accessorized with warm & cozy scarves, gloves and capes - the women then peeled off the outerwear to uncover a collection of Fall sweaters in a rainbow of warm weather colors.  Purples, Reds and Oatmeal, stripes and argyles, lightweight and bulkier knits all paraded down the runway.  Bonus? Outerwear and sweaters are on sale this week - 25% off. 

Modern yet classic suiting and separates from Michel Antoni took over, with perfectly coordinated wear to work fashion and accessorizing tips. Tweed, plaid, herringbone - luxurious fabrics layered over this season's perfect white shirt, colorful turtlenecks and fashion blouses, adorned with trendy multi chain and chunky necklaces. 

Behind the scenes, the ladies prepared for another designer segment of the fashion show, with help from the Ste. Catherine street team.  Guests were thrilled that the dynamic Simon Chang made a guest appearance, and applauded his exclusive to Addition Elle plus size collection which includes graphic prints, bright colors and his signature trendy jackets and bottoms.

The unique, multi dimensional style of Joseph Ribkoff followed.  A Canadian fashion designer who celebrates the essence of femininity and offers soft yet elegant figure flattering fashion for work and evening wear. 

The 'last dance' included stunning plus size cocktail and evening gowns, and several versions of the little black dress -all show stoppers.  A great way to end the show & start the party as our guests dashed off to the fitting rooms with their preferred outfits and started building their Fall wardrobes. 

Many took advantage of our bra fit experts and found a perfect bra in support (pardon the pun) of Addition Elle's bra promotion during our Breast Cancer fundraiser. 

Photos to follow shortly!