When it comes to plus size fashion trying to find something cute, AND affordable is like finding a needle in a haystack. But sometimes you find some hidden gems when you’re not even really looking.  XPLUSWEAR is one such brand that I had stumbled across while mindlessly scrolling through my FYP on TikTok (as one does) and I soon after I found an invitation from them in my inbox to try some of their pieces.

So, armed with some new pieces for my wardrobe to try, I decided to dive into some styling sessions. But hey, since it’s February and love is in the air (or maybe just lots of chocolate), I thought, why not sprinkle in some Valentine’s Day vibes? Yep, expect a lot of red and hearts  because who says you can’t be festive while slaying the fashion game? Especially during New York Fashion Week, which calls for a dash of extra flair to the mix.

Disclaimer : The pieces styled in this post were gifted for review and feature, but opinions are my own. 

Black Bow Lantern Sleeve Mini Dress

This dress right here was me leaving my comfort zone in that it is one of those pieces that looks like a conservative style that I wouldn’t normally consider trying. Yet, what drew me to it was the bubble hem. In my experience, this is a trend that is rarely found within a plus size range so, naturally I had to snatch it up. Now the next step was to make this dress my own.

The dress is quite voluminous so I decided to play with that by adding my favorite Jenny Machete  red harness. From there it just became obvious to include more pops of this cherry red with these fingerless gloves and patent leather Mary Janes. Tying the bow to the front instead of the side as intended and adding this Nicoletta Carlone flaming heart broach really brought this bold look together. I think the next time I wear this out I will go one step further into maximalism by adding some printed tights to the mix. I think it would make the whole look a bit more interesting. What do you think?

Black Pattern Print Balloon Sleeves Pointed Collar Blouse

Admittedly this is more print and color than what I’d normally wear, but  I just couldn’t pass on the witchy-inspired print and statement sleeves. I had fears that this top would overwhelm me though I soon found those to be unfounded once I realized that I should keep the focus on it with a simple silhouette and color palette.  I also kept accessorizing to a minimum, with just my Luna crossbody to echo the abundant crescent moons already floating on the pointed collar and sleeves.

This blouse only has a slight stretch to it so I would definitely recommend sizing up  for a better fit in and to to avoid gaping. That said, the buttons were surprising difficult to button, it is part of the reason I ultimately left the final three undone.

High Collar Long Sleeve Contrast Blouse Top

This was the top that got my attention when I landed on my first XPLUSWEAR video on TikTok. As much as I am a fan of layering, I’m a sucker for a twofer top like this that gives all of the fun of layering without the bulk. The material, along with the high collar neck, makes this versatile enough to go from a casual day out to a more dressed-up occasion with just a change of accessories, making it a wardrobe essential as we slowly transition into spring.

I will say that though it fits, I am slightly disappointed by how short the crop feature is on me. After carefully consulting the size guide, I made sure to get a 2XL in each XPLUSWEAR piece featured here, but in this case, I think I would have to size up a size or two to get the fit as shown on the website. That being said, I think how it currently lays, right at my bra line, is not the worst possible thing. It’s definitely a cut that I’m just not used to that somehow works really well with these plaid bottoms, so I’m not even mad.

Long Sleeve Irregular Hem PU Leather Outerwear with Pocket

Fun fact: I’ve only just gotten around to introducing longer jackets and coats into my wardrobe this year. Because of my petite frame, I’ve always figured I’d be too short for anything past my knee because it would just place unnecessary emphasis on my height, or rather, lack thereof. But I guess there are some advantages to being petite because I am short enough that I can pull off wearing this jacket as an edgy hi-lo hem dress. Though I feel like it could also just double as an Organization XIII closet cosplay. (IYKYK) With a fully functional front zipper and slightly oversized hood, this roomy lightweight jacket is one I can see myself making dramatic entrances with this spring.

I will note that when I opened the package, this jacket did have a weird, almost fishy-like smell to it, but I sprayed it with some Febreze and let it hang for a few hours before wearing it. That seems to have done the trick, as I haven’t caught a whiff of the smell since. This seems to be pretty common with some faux leather materials, so it’s nice to have a hack to mitigate this. If you have another, please be sure to share it in the comments.

Overall, I do love what I got to try from XPLUSWEAR, and I’m looking forward to wearing these over the next season. If you have yet to shop with them, my one suggestion is to double check the sizing and the fabric description before you place an order to get the fit that you’d like. From what I can see, they have started to release their spring/summer line, which is perfect timing to see about adding some new gems to your closet too. I know I’m already eyeing a couple of things, like this denim two piece skirt set. Check out XPLUSWEAR today!

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Which outfit/piece is your fav? Have you tried XPLUSWEAR yet?

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