When Will H&M's BiB Clothing Line for Plus Size Women Be Reinstated in the United States?

Plus size women have every right to be fashionably conscience, sexy and trendy. One can assume that many plus size women were disappointed to hear H&M's decision to discontinue the BiB clothing line in the United States indefinitely. The one and only reason for the discontinuation that I have heard is that Karl Lagerfeld decided that his clothing was designed for slender and slim people. After countless searches, I have yet to find a press release that explains the discontinuation.

The BiB clothing line targets plus size women up to size 26 and expands H&M's consumer market, by not limiting it to women sizes 0-10. As a former customer of H&M's BiB line, I became very disappointed when I discovered that the line was discontinued and only offered overseas, or outside of the United States, to date. I recall that only select H&M locations carried the BiB line, similar to Old Navy's Women's Plus line which only was featured in select store locations (now, only offered on-line). So, I was willing to drive to those locations even if out of my area for the trendy fashion items that BiB offered plus size women.

About two to three years ago, I heard from a friend that the line was discontinued in the United States therefore, I wasted no time calling the H&M closest to me that carried the BiB line. When I called the H&M store that carried the BiB line in my area, a very kind sales representative informed me that the line had been discontinued for "redesign". Since that time, I have been searching and searching for the line to reappear in the United States. To date, I have been unsuccessful.

Since I travel outside of the United States a lot, I have went as far as searching for the H&M locations in other countries to see if the BiB line is available. Again, I have been unsuccessful. I cannot believe that such a popular consumer market, plus size clothing, was discontinued by H&M. I would bet money that the BiB line brought in big money and increased H&M's annual sales revenue.

I think that NOT offering plus-size clothing is a mistake and outdated. Most clothing lines, even designer lines, offer plus-size clothing. Isn't Fashion about diversifying and wow-ing the consumer. I feel that H&M, and other companies, that have HUSHED their plus-size clothing selection, should re-visit offering plus-size clothing.

Fall is Here!!! How to Be Fabulous for Less...

Listen Ladies, with the economy in such disarray, spend less money on your Fall Must-Haves. If you are depressed about our economy in the United States but still need to look fabulous, then follow these easy steps without blowing your budget.

First things first, one weekend find a table of some sort and take out all of your Fall clothing. The first step is always to take a quick look or a long look at what you have. If you must, make a list of it... take pictures... whatever works for you. But, do not, I repeat, do not, go shopping for any new items until you have a general understanding of what you do not need. Take note of sweaters, Fall weather jackets, long sleeve shirts, long pants, boots, closed-toe shoes, scarves, turtlenecks, etc.

Second, make a list of what you cannot live without for the Fall season. The list should be something similar to what the Ladies below have provided this Blog. While making the list do not forget to think about why you need the items. Only get items that can be worn with multiple outfits. The key to spending less money is to buy items that are flexible and can be used for a variety of looks or ensembles.

Third, after you have made your list begin looking on the internet or in the stores to get a cost-benefit analysis-thing going. You may like the Cole Haan boots but Nine West may have something similar for less money. Or, think about purchasing sweaters that are good quality but are made with a less expensive fabric. Everyone wants Cashmere but Cashmere is very expensive...

After you have diligently listed your Must-Haves and completed a cost-benefit analysis, then re-check your list. Do you really NEED all the things listed? Is there something missing that would better link all of the articles of clothing in your wardrobe together? Which brand is best - the high-end or the low-end? Etc, etc, etc.

Now this is what I want you to do. The most crucial thing about Fall Fashion is that it links you to the lovely Winter season. Remember, you want select items that can help you transition to the colder months. I realize that those of you in hotter climates won't appreciate this as much as the Ladies in cold climates but follow me... In the Winter, we layer and layer. I am throwing you a lot of instructions at once, but do not forget to think of the following season. A true Fashionista thinks one season ahead. Looky here, you are already behind.

Lastly, go back to your cost-benefit analysis and get your monies together. Go shopping and stick to what you have listed. If you go astray, then you will spend more money.

Stay tuned, I am going to tell you about my Fall Must-Haves or at least what articles of clothing will help you the most with a limited, or should I say cost-conscience, budget.

A book to read: How to Be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney.

Preparing for Fall 2008

I must admit that preparing for a new season is exciting.
I have decided to take this entry to the next level and invite some Guest Bloggers.
I have been speaking with various women of all sizes here and there, and then it came to me...
Why not allow these women to add their two cents about Fall Must-Haves?
I don't like one-sided views and when it comes to fashion, "different styles" are permitted.

So, please stay tuned as we countdown Fall 2008 (September 23rd)...

Here are the Fall Must-Haves that I collected so far:

"Ummmmmmmmm…..I actually have 7 things (that I must have for Fall)………thank you,

1.) Genetic Denim jeans either wide leg/bell bottom or skinny perfect for fall due to their versatility. Urban Outfitters also has great jean finds as well.

2.) Platform round toe heel shoe (preferably Mary Jane) no shorter than 4 inches; perfect for any dress or jean. For boots like Tootie suggested and platform or T-strap (think Great Gatsby, 1920’s and 1930’s) heels I would suggest checking out Rachel Zoe’s picks on Piperlime.

3.) High neck long sleeve dresses with either florals or trimmed prints. Check out Hayden Harnett’s MARIA dress for these great fall finds. They may seem matronly but they really go with this whole “lady” theme found on spring runways. It gives me a slight 1960’s, Sarah Pallin hair glamour with knee high boots or 1940’s glamour with Mary Janes with thick black tights.

4.) A large structured tote or satchel bag. Every designer from LV to Cole Haan to LAMB to Michael Kors to BR is in the running. Hayden Harnett and Urban Outfitters also have great large bags in 1960’s patchwork or 1970’s glitterati for those not afraid to take a risk.

5.) Flats go with anything and can really dress up or dress down any outfit. Think Lauren Conrad with simple plain tee, skinny jeans, lightweight scarf with cute flats. She could be going to Starbucks or to a casting, so versatile. Also, check out (Tootie’s) Tory Burch flats in black or my personal suggestion for the fall are the TB “Reva” flats in the croco-embossed or leopard print styles.

6.) Anything by J. crew one of my favorite stores. Check out catalog look (purple skirt, pink cardigan, yellow heels and leopard clutch…..)

7.) Obama tees….Obama/Biden 08’ anyone…………."

- Tracee (Guest Blogger)
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"For me, I would say brown knee boots (that are hot!), and some really good jeans.
However I would also like to have a couple of nice blazers, cardigans, some sweaters…lol!"

- Desi (Guest Blogger)
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"(I think) Zebra print is hot, I have a pair of shoes and a coat, (AND a) broach—especially the antique looking ones..."

- Candice (Guest Blogger)