Shopping in general can be a very frustrating and draining experience, even more so when you attempt to do so in the straight sizes, however it doesn’t have to be. I think the key to shopping the straight size section is really not getting too focused on size. What I mean is, if you find something you like, try it on. If it fits, go for it and make it werk! But if it doesn’t fit, it really isn’t the end of the world, after all that is where the fun begins. When I find something I really like in the straight sizes that doesn’t fit I start to look into how I can recreate it. Sometimes that means getting creative with separates to recreate a dress or focusing my shopping efforts to find something very similar in retailers that carry my size. And I should note that I do the same thing for plus size pieces that I can’t afford. In fact, I have found that this shopping tactic helps keep my spending in check as I only spend what funds I have on something specific rather than being solely driven by impulse, which is not to say that doesn’t happen; as was the case with this statement top.
Funny enough I found this mock-layer top with bell sleeves while playing personal stylist for a close friend, an elementary school teacher, who is looking to update her wardrobe with more professional pieces. (She also has difficulty shopping because she is on the other side of the sizing spectrum being an XXS.)  I picked the top for her, but since it was only available in the largest size they carry, I decided to try it on. I don’t know what surprised me more, fact that it fit or the fact that I didn’t mind the sparkle beaded front.
The monochromatic trend is one that I greatly enjoy as it gives a classy polished look perfect for the workplace or a day out in the city. Even more than the great use of black and white in this top, I love the subtle ruffle at the elbow and how it adds a bit of a vintage feminine touch that is complemented by the beading. For this look, I paired the top with my new Avenue jeggings that I got last fall and my favorite heeled boots for some edge. I decided to keep accessorizing to a minimum, only adding a bold lip color and mini backpack. It definitely is a look that makes me really feel like the chic adult professional that I aspire to be, even more so as it proves yet again that style has no size.

~Get the look~

ELLE Paillette Mock-Layer Top (XXL) | Kohl’s (recreate the top: blouse & vest available in plus)
Virtual Stretch Leggings Jean (Size 14) | Avenue
Mini Backpack | Borrowed (similar here)
Rogue Baxter Lace-up Boots | Rainbow (similar here)