Are you vertically challenged and curvy?
I am! Being a 5-foot-2, size 16-18 curvy woman, I am often challenged with my love of long dresses. Every time I see a beautifully flowing maxi dress or maxi skirt, I can imagine walking in the summer breeze with sandals and my beautiful dress blowing in the wind. But then reality hits. The real scenario is me wearing my beautiful maxi dress trying my best to not constantly step on it or holding it up with my hand, while trying to stylishly carry my clutch or handbag. The end result — nothing like I imagined! So what should I do?
Well, of course I can put on a pair of 4-inch heels and pray that it gives me that height I need to seamlessly pull off that maxi dress look. But if you are like me, my 4-inch heels are what I call my “10-minute” shoes. I can guarantee that I will be holding the heels in my hand, along with the dress and my clutch by the end of the night. Instead, try to be creative. I am known as the Queen of Twists. I’ve earned this title because I have discovered stylish ways to alter the length of my long dresses with a simple knot, twist, or pull of the material.
Here are some simple ways to make this work.
A rubber band! Use a rubber band to gather and pull together a knot in the front or side of your maxi dress or skirt. Once you gather the material and determine the best location for the knot, pull the material through and tuck it within the rubber band to hide it. You can then play with the material to create an attractive flower or puff. The gathering will also create a rouching look that will camouflage that “extra loving”. Lastly, it will give you a sexy peek at your beautiful full leg and allow you to avoid stepping on the dress.
A long scarf! Use your scarf as a belt and pull the maxi skirt up and over it. When you pull the skirt to the length that will work for you, tie it in place and werk! Choose a scarf that will accent your outfit and add a pop of color while it serves as a belt to hold the skirt in place.
So now what? Let’s get it going. I can’t wait to hear the stories of how my vertically challenged curvy divas got out there, walked with pride, and werked that maxi dress. As always, I like proof, so send me your picture. All you have to do is comment and attach a picture. I can’t wait to see it.
P.S.: If you are in the D.C. area, come visit the Curvy Chix Chariot and let’s play dress up!
After all, I am the Queen of Twists.
–Donna Hundley, CEO of Curvy Chix Chariot, Washington, D.C.’s first fashion truck for plus size women
