"Plus Sized" Fashion

Hello Youvies!

Kris Humphries

Imagine this scenario: you are a shopper amongst other shoppers. You’ve browsed store after store and have left each one emptied handed, when out of the blue comes along a killer outfit you’ve just set your sights on. With great pride, you approach the rack onto the find that small is way too small; medium hardly feels any bigger and large fits just alright...but barely. You slide over that large sized item to find….nothing. Nothing on this rack fits you. You absolutely loved the item you saw, but none of them fit you. While there are people who’ll count their losses and think nothing of it, there are many of us who think along the dreadful lines “I could find my size if I was smaller” or “why do I even bother? They never have the nice clothes in my size”.

Then, just to rub some salt in the wound, someone came along and decided to make sizes larger and call them ‘plus size’. Well, who the hell wants to be known as the person with the larger-than-average frame? In most cases, ‘plus size’ invokes the images of a person being lesser than the ‘normal’ (but what is normal, anyways??) and unnecessarily separates an entire group of people.

You see, your clothing size means nothing but the size that fits you. Media has implanted this image in our heads that: As a woman, you better be a small or medium and, as a man, you better not be a small. We overthink these labels to drastic proportions which can discourage, or even ruin, an otherwise pleasant shopping experience.

This mental stigma has turned many people away from shopping. Many believe there’s no such thing as a good outfit for them so they grab a generic shirt of the shelf and speed out as fast as they can.

Your. Clothing. Size. Does. Not. Define. You.

Mary Lambert

We’re here to prove it! There are clothes for every size out there regardless of your body type. If the labels encourage you to change your lifestyle to a healthy one, great, but please do not allow it to make you think your aren’t worthy of looking your best! With simple tricks and the know-how, you can dress as well as anybody out there and look as well! We have many readers who are all too familiar with this scenario and are embarrassed to be in the ‘plus size’ category. You have nothing to be embarrassed about whatsoever and we’d like you to know that EVERYONE suffers from the frustration of finding clothes that fit well. It’s rare we pull items off the shelf in ‘our size’ and they fit like we imagine them too.

Below we have examples of just how stylish you can be as well as links and tips to inspire your next wardrobe! Remember, the labels do not define you! Do not let them discourage you!!

Here are a few tips for dressing that flawless frame: 

Ladies

Queen Latifa 

• Define your waistline and show off those curves! Whether it be under the bust or on the natural waste (this will be different for everyone), accentuate your waistline with a belt or with details built in to the garment. 

• Keep in mind proportions. If you're larger on top than you are on the bottom, wear pants and jeans with a wide or straight leg to create balance. Similarly, if you are larger on the bottom than you are on top, opt for structured pieces like blazers and stay away from tighter fitting garments which will make the bottom half appear larger. 

Check out this website for a comprehensive list of tips that will keep you looking your best! Click here

Gentlemen

• Opt for structured pieces like blazers and button ups 

• Opt for pinstripes and vertical lines that will make the body appear longer 
• On the contrary, horizontal stripes and patterns that move across the body horizontally aren't as flattering

• Ensure that each piece fits properly. Pieces that are too large or small will make the body appear larger. 

Check out this website for a comprehensive list of tips to keep you looking dapper. Click here

Here's a list of links to keep you inspired and looking and feeling your best!

Ladies

Adele 

• http://www.avenue.com/
• http://www.ashleystewart.com/
• http://www.bcoutlet.com/

Gentlemen

• http://www.destinationxl.com/mens-big-and-tall-store/
• http://www.kingsize.com.au/
• https://www.bigmansland.com/
• http://www.bcoutlet.com/

Got a Tumblr? Check these fashionable ladies and gents out for even more inspiration! Simply click on their title. 

Ladies

• BigBeautifulBlackGirls
• CurveAppeal

Gentlemen 

• BigGuyFlyy

We encourage you to send your outfits to us and to let us know your thoughts on this issue! Have any specific questions you'd like us to answer? Send us a DM on instagram or tweet us @hey_deja_you. Or, take to our Tumblr HeyDeJaYou. Or you can contact us by email at TeamDejaYou@gmail.com. We'll be waiting! 

Sam Smith 

What did you think Youvies? Let us know in the comments! 

Until next time, 

Hey DeJa You! 

Looks We Dig From: 2014 MTV Video Music Awards

Hello there, Youvies!

Today we're breaking down some of our favorite looks from this year's red carpet at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards!

Award shows are great aren't they? Sure some exciting stuff happens during the actual event, but the best part for us here at DeJa You is definitely the red carpet! Enough chatter! Let's get started!

Here's our best dressed list for the 2014 VMAs:

Chanel Iman 

Rita Ora 

Jessie J 

Kelly Rowland 

Nicki Minaj 

Kylie Jenner 

Iggy Azalea 

What we saw: 

This year the red carpet was taken over by black, metallics, and a whole lot of leg and cleavage! 

The stars took over L.A. in stunning black outfits on the red carpet and our favorite starlets who rocked this trend were Chanel Iman and Kylie Jenner. What we love about these looks specifically is how bold and strong both of these black dresses are. The color really makes a statement and is something that can easily become too overwhelming. However, both Chanel and Kylie maintain a presence and look stunning. And check that slit on Kylie's dress! We see you! 

The next popular trend that we saw on the red carpet were thigh high (sometimes higher) slits! Rita Ora has graced DeJa You quite a few times now and the main reason is that whatever she's wearing, SHE OWNS IT! Rita perhaps had the most confidence on the red carpet and it showed when she wore her stunning red gown. What we love about this look is that it drapes beautifully on Rita and, come on, it's a sexy red gown with a thigh high slit worn by Rita Ora. What's not to like? 

What did you think, Youvies? Who were your best dressed at the VMAs this year? Let us know in the comments! 

Hey DeJa You! 

Strut Song: Meghan Trainor- "All About That Bass"

Happy Tuesday, Youvies! 

We hope you enjoyed last week's Strut Song! This week we encourage you to love yourself regardless of what size you are and this week's song is the perfect motivator! This week we're struttin' to "All About That Bass" by Meghan Trainor. It's an upbeat and fun song with an even more fun video! Peep those pastels!

Here's our favorite lyric (but honestly every word is just fantastic): 

"But I'm here to tell ya 

Every inch of you is perfect from the bottom to the top

Yeah my mama she told me don't worry about your size

She says 'boys like a little more booty to hold at night' 

You know I won't be no stick figure silicone Barbie doll
So if that's what you're into then go ahead and move along"

Check out the video below! 

What did you think, Youvies? Is there a song that helps you conquer your day? Let us know in the comments! Now get out there and bring booty back! 

Hey DeJa You! 

What I Wore

Hello my lovely Youvies! 

Here's a look at what I wore today! 

A blazer and jeans is perhaps one of my personal favorite looks to wear. There's something about rocking a blazer that makes me feel so confident and makes my look a little more special.

Wearing a pocket square is something that is relatively new to me, but I can say that I'm completely obsessed! Recently I tried my hand at making my own pocket square and the one featured in today's look is my own creation. I must say, I'm pretty proud of the results! If anyone at Versace or Gucci is reading, I'm ready to go pro as a full-time designer. ;)

The midi rings I got from Topman and they're another accessory I'm totally in love with! Ever since I saw Rihanna wearing them during her Rated R days up until now I've been searching for some to add a little uniqueness and edge to my look. And now, thankfully for me, they're everywhere.

Everything I'm wearing today I managed to get for a relatively low price. The blazer I received from my father, the t-shirt is from Forever 21 for less than $15, the belt was only $7 at TJ Maxx (I'm totally a Maxxinista), the jeans I got at Ross for less than $20, and my shoes I got from Burlington Coat Factory for only $40. Oh yes, your boy is a bargain hunter! Check out some inspiration below! 

Get the Look

What did you think, Youvies? Show us your outfits by sending us pictures to teamdejayou@gmail.com or with #DeJaYou for a chance to be featured! 

Until next time, 

-Derrick 

Hey DeJa You! 

Fashion of Fandoms

Ello Youvies!

We here at DeJa You thought we'd have a little fun this week and create some looks inspired by our favorite characters. This first one is Derrick's personal favorite character from his favorite television show, Scandal. Oh yes, we're talking about the fast talking, ultra classy, sophisticated, problem fixer extraordinaire herself, Ms. Olivia Pope played by the beautiful Kerry Washington!

There are a dozen reasons why Olivia Pope is a good candidate, but the number one reason is her obvious and always well put together style. Whether she is wearing a beautiful coat or a simple blouse, Ms. Pope delivers. She is the epitome of sophistication, which is an interesting juxtaposition to the dark line of work she's in.

What we've noticed about Olivia Pope's style is that her pieces are timeless and classic in a very bright, but neutral pallet. What makes her style so incredible is its simplicity; she's not overly decked out in intricate patterns or details and this oozes sophistication. It doesn't hurt that she is also extremely confident.

Here are outfits inspired by Olivia Pope:

What did you think, Youvies? Who is your favorite character of all time? Let us know and just maybe we'll feature you! Remember to show us your outfits by email to teamdejayou@gmail.com or with #DeJaYou or @DeJaYou. 

Until we meet again, 

Hey DeJa You! 

Strut Song: Labrinth- "Express Yourself"

Happy Tuesday, Youvies! 

Here we are again for another Strut Song! We hope last week's song helped you to feel confident enough to see yourself through any situation like Ms. Mary J Blige. This week's Strut Song is a bit more lighthearted with "Express Yourself" from one of our favorite artists, Labrinth. We're sure you've heard it, but really soak in his message while you're out there killin' it! 

Here's our favorite lyric from the very beginning of the song: 

 "Say the same thing twice, I'm awkward when I speak
Ain't got the perfect smile, don't turn heads on my street
Trying to be a superstar like everybody else
But being myself is something I do well"

Check out the video below! 

What did you think, Youvies? Is there a song that helps you conquer your day? Let us know in the comments! Now get out there and express yo' self! 

Hey DeJa You! 

The Basics: Accessories

Ello Youvies!

This week is all about accessories!

Accessories are an easy way to add your own flair and personality to an outfit, but choosing the right accessories is the key to taking your look to the next level.

Over the weeks here at DeJa You you may have seen us put a lot of accessories with our outfits and may be asking yourself how you can rock some statement accessories. Well, we're here to help! Let's get started!

Here are some basic tips when choosing accessories:

• If you're just starting out, start small. I know it's tempting to buy every single ring at Charming Charlie (they're just so shiny) or all of the bow ties at Topman (I mean seriously, they have a wooden one), but be sure to start with pieces that you know you'll feel comfortable enough to wear. 

• Don't over do it. Putting on too many accessories ultimately distracts from the outfit. Remember, accessories are meant as an enhancement and not a focal point. 

• If you're wearing a colorful outfit, pick accessories that match those colors. On the contrary, if your wearing a more neutral outfit, use accessories to add a pop of color or add a pattern to add some visual interest. 

• Be you! Accessories are a definite way to tell people about who are you so pick accessories that say something about you. Whether you're edgy, sexy, strong, quiet, or bubbly your accessories should tell your story. 

• Have fun! Accessories give you the opportunity to be just as unique as you are so take advantage of it and find your niche in the vast, crazy world of accessories. 

Get the Look 

What did you think, Youvies? There are literally thousands of options out there so have fun and be creative! Do you want to show us your favorite accessories? Send us your pictures to teamdejayou.gmail.com or with #DeJaYou for a chance to be featured! 

Until next time, 
Hey DeJa You! 

Grooming

Happy Tuesday Youvies!

Here at DeJa You we believe that confidence is the outfit and fashion is the accessory, and there are some very important things you can do to make that confidence of yours shine bright like a diamond. (I couldn't help it.)

This week we're going to discuss how important grooming is to your style and self confidence. Part of looking good is making sure you're just as spic and span as your outfits. Let's get started!

In General

• Nails are pretty simple; it is important to keep them clean and trimmed. Having long, dirty nails can easily distract from that new shirt you're rockin'. 

• Hair is one of those things that people notice when they first see you so it's important that it stays maintained. Consult your hair care professional about which haircut will look best on you, but just in case you're at a loss, here are some guides on face shape so you can find the right hairstyle that works for you.

• Brush them teeth! There are plenty of over the counter products that can help you keep your teeth pearly white and healthy. Click here for some tips on maintaining them pearly whites and here for a list of the top ten teeth whitening kits. 

Ladies 

Brows: 

• There's a science to getting and maintaining brow shape that should be taught in grade school we think. (No? Too far?) This particularly though can have a big impact on your overall look. Check out the video below for a video on how to shape your brows. 

Gentlemen

Facial hair:

• There are dozens of ways to keep your facial hair well contained and looking good. Check out the chart below. But for however you'd like to style your manly mug make sure that it looks well tended to with the correct products and gadgets like the Gillette Fusion Proglide Styler to help tame it. All in one tools like the Gillette Styler makes this job significantly more manageable. 

Aside from tending to facial hair there is a slew of grooming practices that can keep you looking your best. There are a lot of websites that offer grooming tips, but a couple of our favorites can be found at Ask Men or Fashion Beans the latter being the most comprehensive. Check it out, Youvies and let us know what you think!

What did you think, Youvies? What is your grooming routine? Let us know!

Hey DeJa You! 

Strut Song: Mary J Blige "Just Fine"

Hello Youvies!

We hope you enjoyed your flawless selves last week! This week we're going a little less sassy and a little more soulful with the incomparable Mary J Blige and her song "Just Fine". This song is not only upbeat and positive, but has a really amazing message.

The song's message or Mary's voice though is not the only reason why this is out Strut Song. Mary J Blige also has a story; she herself has struggled with severe depression, self hate and wanting to commit suicide. Throughout her childhood and teenage years she dealt with severe abuse and carried that pain over into her adult life and music career.

So, the song "Just Fine" is not only an upbeat song with a good message, but one that comes from a person genuinely finding the light within themselves. That to us is a beautiful thing. You can see her story here on Half Of Us.

Here's our favorite lyric:

"So I like what I see when I'm looking at me

When I'm walking past the mirror

No stress through the night at a time in my life 

Ain't worried 'bout if you feel it 

Got my head on straight, I got my mind right

I ain't gonna let you kill it 

You see I wouldn't change my life, my life's 

Just Fine"

Check out the video below!

What did you think, Youvies? Do you have a song that helps you conquer your day? Is there a song that has helped you battle your own inner demons? Let us know! Enjoy your life and feel good about yourself! Show us your confidence by emailing your pictures to teamdejayou@gmail.com or with #DeJaYou. 

Until next time, 

Hey Deja You! 

What I Wore

Hello Youvies! 

Here's a look at what I wore yesterday! 

I have my days when my style is very simplistic. Today was definitely one of those days and I 

love the results. I usually don't wear shorts because I am pretty self conscious about my legs so wearing this outfit was definitely a personal victory. Yay self love! Check out where you can get similar items and get this look for yourself below. 

Get the Look

Blazer: Zara $40 

Tank Top: PacSun $23

Shorts: Forever21 $20 

Shoes: River Island $34 

Bags: Forever21 $30 

My favorite part about this outfit is that everything was relatively inexpensive. My motto these days has been "ballin' on a budget" (thanks Kandi from Real Housewives of Atlanta), which is definitely reflected in my wardrobe. I want pieces that look incredible, but also allow me to eat the rest of the month.

 #CollegeLife 

What did you think, Youvies? Have you tried anything out of your comfort zone lately? Let us know by emailing your pictures to teamdejayou@gmail.com or with #DeJaYou. Also, follow us on all our social media @hey_deja_you. Thank you kindly. 

Until next time, 

Derrick

Bags

Hello Youvies!

There are a lot of bags out there right? We know the possibilities are overwhelming. Bags, though, are an excellent way to add some personality, color, and interest to your outfit. Today we're going to take a look at a few of the many bag options out there. Let's get started! 

Basically, when choosing a bag think of the situation for which you're preparing. The main difference between the different types of bags is size. Let's talk about some of the most prevalent bags options out there. 

Handbags: These are bags with a lot of personality. They come in a variety of styles, colors, materials, and sizes to make just about any outfit stand out. 

Totes: These are typically medium sized, open bags which are good for weekend day trips, a day at the beach, or for hanging out with friends. In a word, tote bags are casual. Take a look at some of the examples below. 

Satchels and Messenger Bags: These are typically large bags with many pockets for keeping things organized. They usually come with pockets for your all of your gadgets and are practical and productive. This doesn't mean they lack in style though! 

Clutches: These are typically smaller bags only meant to hold a few essential items for a night out, a formal event, or a quick get together with friends. 

Duffel Bags: These are large open bags which are typically associated with the gym. Duffel bags, though, are far more versatile than just holding your funky gym socks. These can be used for weekend trips and times when you just need to carry a lot of stuff. Now, these come in a wide variety of styles and sizes to make this bag an essential in your everyday life. 

What did you think, Youvies? What other types of bags do you rock? Let us know! Send us your pictures to teamdejayou@gmail.com or hashtag them with #DeJaYou for a chance to be featured! 

Hey DeJa You! 

Body Image

Hello Youvies!

On a more serious note, we want to take the time to talk to you about an issue that’s been plaguing our society for a very long time: Body Acceptance.

It appears everywhere you turn, protruding ribcages, thigh gaps, hip bones, collar bones, etc. etc. seems to have become the definition of beauty (to those of your who are science students, this is probably the definition of a skeleton in page 62 of your anatomy book, right? Right?)

Jokes, aside. We at DeJa You believe that is the most utterly ridiculous definition of beauty there is. Think of it this way: Heidi Klum,  Beyonce, Megan Fox, Christina Hendricks, Queen Latifah, Jill Scott, Adele; What do these women have in common?

These are some of the most gorgeous women in the Industry. What is different about them? That’s right, their body types.

                                                  

V-cut, hard pectorals, washboard abs, solid jawline, Hercules arms. You see advertisements all over the place with these features defining ‘ideal man’. Well, unless Michelangelo cut you out of marble (or you spend every waking minute in the gym, which we won’t hate on) truth is, these features probably don’t belong to you. Childish Gambino, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zachary Levi, Andrew Garfield. Again, what do these fellas have in common? That’s right, they’re some of the best at what they do, are loved for it, and are still admired for their looks and charm.

                                              

The bottom line is this: Body Type Does Not Define Beauty Or Worth.

And ladies, PLEASE, stop judging yourself on your cellulite or your stretch marks. Take Karruche Tran who is, by no stretch of the imagination, ‘overweight’. She has stretch marks which she has displayed on social media (can you say guts!) That is HER; take her or leave her. They do not ‘deduct’ any beauty points from the gal.

                                                             

  

Fellas, take Leonardo DiCaprio one of the most beloved (and snubbed!) celebrities of our time. You’ve seen him shed away pounds for roles to be slim and trim, but more often than not, you’ve seen him with a bit of a belly. Does this stop women from clamoring over him? No. Does this stop him from being cast in highly-praised films and giving stellar performances? No!

                                                                     

Realistically, however, there is such a thing as ‘too fat’ and ‘too skinny’. If you find yourself with unsafe eating habits or are concerning your doctor, friends or family with your habits, then you should seek help. PLEASE. We endorse body acceptance, but we also endorse you being honest with yourself! You do not need to be a certain dress size or suit size to be attractive AS LONG AS YOU ARE HEALTHY.

Our question to the fashion industry is this: Who decided this was a “plus size”?? To us, she appears healthy, happy and glowing. That’s the only PLUS she has. Her body is fabulous and so is your’s!

                                                                       

So let’s crush these blasted Industry-pushed ideas of what a ‘beautiful body is’. Don’t look at a magazine and say, “I wish I had that body”. Get up, look in the mirror and say, “Damn, I look good!”

Be healthy, be happy, be YOU

Until next time! Love yourself, Youvies!