One more opinion here from someone with a similar build, in case you want it: I think spray tans look fake, and if you're not used to wearing one, you won't feel right in it, either. You'll be thinking about the tan, or its rubbing off on your clothes, or if it is too orange, rather than just feeling gorgeous yourself.

I think you are right to think that a jacket will be too bulky. If you need another layer, find a lightweight knit in a pretty color. It will drape flatteringly around you instead of chunking up around you, if you know what I mean.

White jeans will look great with a tunic.

Finally, if you're into plus sizes I've had good luck at Lord & Taylor's. Not so much good selection at Nordstrom's, and a whole bunch of polyester at Macy's.

OP, Sylene and Nordstrom are great places to get fitted for bras, and for shapewear.

OP here.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Sooooo many great ideas!!!

I just ordered a few things from Talbots online because it looks like some items in these sizes are only carried online. I better check Nordstrom too to see if I need to order online.

I never would have checked Talbots because my MIL shops there religiously. Guess it's time to realize that we have more in common than I'd like to admit.

And then I'm definitely heading out this weekend to get some new bras/shaper, try on some clothes/shoes, and maybe do a make up refresher. I should also schedule my hair, get mani/pedi, etc. Got to squeeze it all in over the next few weeks.

I've never had a spray tan. Where do you do this to get a good color? How far in advance should I do that?

Will a blow out last 36 hours? I better check that other thread... We are arriving late on the first day so it'd be nice to have it done already.

At first, I was really dreading this trip because I feel so frumpy/fat right now, but I think that all of this pampering will be great for the spirit!

THANK YOU!!!

Anonymous wrote:Get a spray tan! It always takes a few pounds off and makes you look skinnier.

Totally agree - just ensure you get a lovely color and don't go too snookie!

I would DEFINITELY wear shapewear.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/spanx-slimplicity-high-waist-shaper-plus/3097630?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Black&resultback=6543&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_16_A

Make sure that you go to Nordstroms or wherever, and say, I NEED A SHAPER not a SMOOTHER.

I have bought spanx that just smoothed out panty lines, etc. No, you want ones that hide any jiggle!

Also, if you will be hot, I suggest chanel natural loose powder to avoid sweat and shine.

Get your eyebrows threaded and a manicure in a neutral pinkish color - like Essie Mademoiselle or Ballet Slippers. It makes your fingers look longer.

I would also get a blowout or similar - check out the DryBar Bethesda thread for tips on keeping a blowout longer.

As for clothes, you have good suggestions here.

If I could give one more suggestion it would be to get and use fashion tape. I usually tape my bra straps to the dress if they are in danger of falling down. I tape my belts to my pants or dresses, and tape the cups of my bra to the shirt or dress to keep it from slipping and looking messy.

I buy fashion tape at drugstores, or you can find good deals at marshalls on it.

Get a spray tan! It always takes a few pounds off and makes you look skinnier.

Anonymous wrote:Not sure if you need evening wear, but this top does everything right for a curvy figure: lower neck, waist cinched with the tie-belt:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/alex-evenings-lace-surplice-blouse-plus/3465858?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=2757&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_8_C

That is ADORABLE!!! Op go get this!

Not sure if you need evening wear, but this top does everything right for a curvy figure: lower neck, waist cinched with the tie-belt:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/alex-evenings-lace-surplice-blouse-plus/3465858?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=2757&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_8_C

Other ideas:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/adrianna-papell-colorblock-print-faux-wrap-dress-plus-online-exclusive/3437995?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=1052&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_4_B

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/suzi-chin-for-maggy-boutique-print-wrap-dress-plus/3438240?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=173&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_2_D

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/eileen-fisher-pull-on-silk-midi-skirt-online-exclusive/3444950?origin=PredictiveSearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=60140496&fashionColor=&resultback=260&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-undefined_4_B


Look for long, straight cut silk skirts. Buy beautiful shoes, get a pedicure in a hot color. You won't look like you're trying to cover your legs, but they'll still be covered.

Sorry, but this wouldn't look good on ANY figure, much less a curvy one. Terrible length and shape.

Nobody asked you to critique postings or suggestions. I'm sure you're quite the fashion plate--do you hve anything constructive to contribute?

I think if someone is looking for ideas on how to look good for a reunion, preventing them from looking downright terrible is certainly helpful. I have posted several times on this string with other ideas.

Not every idea/link that was posted here was great or particularly tasteful, but shouldn't it be up to OP to decide which ones were?

Also, any fit and flare dress looks great on a 14/16:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/js-collections-ottoman-sleeveless-fit-flare-dress/3457686?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=7869&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_19_D

add a light fitted sweater if you need coverage

As former 5' 3 " 14-16 now 6-8, I thoiught I did a good job of "dressing chubby" when I was still carrying bac\by weight (you'll get there too, OP it takes time)!

Invest in good shapewear and wear it. It smoothes you out and reminds you to stand up straight.

Second the poster on a good bra- works wonders. Get fitted if you haven't already

Always wear a low, scoop, or v neck as mentioned earlier; looks better when you are rounder to show skin IMO

Find things that cinch the smallest part of your waist, a jacket for instance. Nordstrom petites have some cute ones.

A wrap dress works great for this size with proper foundation garments and shapewear- this plus a jacket and a statement necklace was a go-to work outfit.

Baby-doll and empire fitted dresses and tops are a huge no

Mid to higher waisted jeans, esp Not You Daughters Jeans, help hold you in.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/eileen-fisher-pull-on-silk-midi-skirt-online-exclusive/3444950?origin=PredictiveSearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=60140496&fashionColor=&resultback=260&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-undefined_4_B


Look for long, straight cut silk skirts. Buy beautiful shoes, get a pedicure in a hot color. You won't look like you're trying to cover your legs, but they'll still be covered.

Sorry, but this wouldn't look good on ANY figure, much less a curvy one. Terrible length and shape.

Nobody asked you to critique postings or suggestions. I'm sure you're quite the fashion plate--do you hve anything constructive to contribute?

I think if someone is looking for ideas on how to look good for a reunion, preventing them from looking downright terrible is certainly helpful. I have posted several times on this string with other ideas.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/eileen-fisher-pull-on-silk-midi-skirt-online-exclusive/3444950?origin=PredictiveSearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=60140496&fashionColor=&resultback=260&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-undefined_4_B


Look for long, straight cut silk skirts. Buy beautiful shoes, get a pedicure in a hot color. You won't look like you're trying to cover your legs, but they'll still be covered.

Sorry, but this wouldn't look good on ANY figure, much less a curvy one. Terrible length and shape.

Nobody asked you to critique postings or suggestions. I'm sure you're quite the fashion plate--do you hve anything constructive to contribute?

Anonymous wrote:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/eileen-fisher-pull-on-silk-midi-skirt-online-exclusive/3444950?origin=PredictiveSearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=60140496&fashionColor=&resultback=260&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-undefined_4_B


Look for long, straight cut silk skirts. Buy beautiful shoes, get a pedicure in a hot color. You won't look like you're trying to cover your legs, but they'll still be covered.

Sorry, but this wouldn't look good on ANY figure, much less a curvy one. Terrible length and shape.