Emily Thompson

Dressing a Plus-Size Figure: Tips for Finding Styles That Work

Thanks to top brands like ASOS and Topshop, you don’t have to be a sample size to find fabulous clothes. But sometimes it can be difficult to find dresses that flaunt and flatter your curves. Below are some plus-size dresses we found and loved, with a few tips on how to work it for your wardrobe.

What are your favorite tips for finding flattering clothes that fit?
Elegant Lace Dress, $99.95, coldwatercreek.com

Elegant Lace Dress, $99.95, coldwatercreek.com

Sheath dresses are universally flattering, and the lace detail provides added interest. The ribbon detail defines the waist, and because it’s slightly raised it will draw the eye upward. This is truly a #CottonShowstopper dress!

 

 

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 ASOS CURVE Skater Dress with Ballet Wrap, $42.43, asos.com

 If you’re feeling self-conscious about your arms, this long-sleeved swingy skater dress might be perfect for you. The fit-and-flare style is easy and flattering, and because it’s cotton, it’s comfortable and will move and breathe with you. Plus, the v-neck wrap front shows off some skin without being revealing, all while drawing the eye up to your gorgeous face. It’s perfect for #CottonAroundTown!

 

 

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Crinkle Cross-Front Dress, $59.99, eddiebauer.com

We can’t say enough good things about an empire waist – especially one with a self-tie, so it can fit you perfectly. This adorable printed dress hits at the knee, so it’s not too short and not too long. Plus it’s got a full cotton lining. We vote taking this little number out for a spin on a #CasualCotton Friday.

 

 

pendleton1 Joan Dress, $188, Pendleton-usa.com

Sheath Dress? Check. Princess seams? Check, check. The knee length look we love? Ok, we’re fans. The thing that puts this dress over the top is its graduated pattern. The floral print is darkest at the hem, getting lighter and brighter towards the top of the dress – and drawing your eye with it, too. #9to5Cotton? Don’t mind if we do.

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Emily Thompson

Cute Cotton Flats

  

G.H. Bass Zoe, $59.99, 6pm.com

G.H. Bass Zoe, $59.99, 6pm.com

Collection Cece Liberty Floral Ballet Flats, $198, JCrew.com

Collection Cece Liberty Floral Ballet Flats, $198, JCrew.com

Etro 10mm Floral Cotton and Swarovski Loafers, $546, Luisaviaroma.com

Etro 10mm Floral Cotton and Swarovski Loafers, $546, Luisaviaroma.com

Polka Dot Loafer, $95, AmericanApparel.com

Polka Dot Loafer, $95, AmericanApparel.com

Splendid Women’s Cannes Flat, $59.97, Amazon.com

Splendid Women’s Cannes Flat, $59.97, Amazon.com

Stella McCartney cotton espadrilles, $278.23, farfetch.com

Stella McCartney cotton espadrilles, $278.23, farfetch.com

TOMS Classic Circle Slip-on, $53.95, Nordstrom.com

TOMS Classic Circle Slip-on, $53.95, Nordstrom.com

Charles Philip Tropez Cotton Flat, $155, modaoperandi.com

Charles Philip Tropez Cotton Flat, $155, modaoperandi.com

G.H. Bass Zoe, $59.99, 6pm.comCollection Cece Liberty Floral Ballet Flats, $198, JCrew.comEtro 10mm Floral Cotton and Swarovski Loafers, $546, Luisaviaroma.comPolka Dot Loafer, $95, AmericanApparel.comSplendid Women’s Cannes Flat, $59.97, Amazon.comStella McCartney cotton espadrilles, $278.23, farfetch.comTOMS Classic Circle Slip-on, $53.95, Nordstrom.comCharles Philip Tropez Cotton Flat, $155, modaoperandi.com

Summer is finally here – finally­! – and with that means embracing light, breathable fabrics like cotton. We’ve already been turning to our embellished tees, but don’t forget your kicks. Cotton flats are super cute and ideal for the warmer months – a great alternative to synthetic fabrics, which can keep the heat in.

We found some adorable options for this summer, so roll those pant cuffs up and show these off! Loafers are in, and we found lots of fun options, from floral to studded and the ever-trendy stripes. Which one is your pick?

 

 

Emily Thompson

Explore Hayden’s Closet and Get the Looks for Less

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We can’t be the only ones watching Hayden’s new commercial on repeat so we can ogle the fabulous clothes she wears, right? Some of her outfits are a little beyond our budget, but that hasn’t stopped us from dreaming big – or from scouring the Web to put together a fab closet of gorgeous cotton fashions inspired by Hayden’s own wardrobe. So if you’re also dreaming of getting Hayden’s look, look no further. Check out a couple of our favorites from Hayden’s Closet; click on the images to purchase.

And if you’ve been inspired by The Fabric of Our Lives® Campaign, upload your own cotton style to Instagram and include one of the 10 hash tags – whichever occasion it’s perfect for.  You just might see your photo on TheFabricofOurLives.com!

 

 

#CottonShowstopper Thu Thu Tribal Embroidered Cotton Dress, $770, Brownsfashion.com

#CottonShowstopper Thu Thu Tribal Embroidered Cotton Dress, $770, Brownsfashion.com

#CasualCotton Hand Crochet Knit Jumper, $69, Bodenusa.com

#CasualCotton Hand Crochet Knit Jumper, $69, Bodenusa.com

#DateNightCotton Keepsake the Label 'Day Dream' Print Fit & Flare Dress, $148, Nordstrom.com

#DateNightCotton Keepsake the Label 'Day Dream' Print Fit & Flare Dress, $148, Nordstrom.com

#CozyCotton AE Lightweight Boyfriend Cardigan, $30, AmericanEagle.com

#CozyCotton AE Lightweight Boyfriend Cardigan, $30, AmericanEagle.com

#CottonShowstopper Thu Thu Tribal Embroidered Cotton Dress, $770, Brownsfashion.com#CasualCotton Hand Crochet Knit Jumper, $69, Bodenusa.com#DateNightCotton Keepsake the Label 'Day Dream' Print Fit & Flare Dress, $148, Nordstrom.com#CozyCotton AE Lightweight Boyfriend Cardigan, $30, AmericanEagle.com

Emily Thompson

Fab Finds Under $50

Check out our set over on Polyvore, where we found four great dresses all well under $50. They’re so adorable and so trendy – and all cotton, of course!

We were so inspired by our dressy finds that we decided to put together a whole gallery of fab clothes, all under $50. Sometimes, the perfect way to kick off the weekend is with a little retail therapy! What’s your favorite pick?

Emily Thompson

DIY Cotton: Embellished Tees

DIY Cotton Embellished Tees

We here at Cotton Style Files are huge fans of a well-made embellished tee. They add a nice sparkle and a little bit of oomph to what might be an otherwise hum-drum outfit. And especially as the summer heats up, wearing a cotton tee with a little bedazzling is such an easy way to look sophisticated while still keeping cool.

But embellishments, whether sequins, ribbons, or appliques, can make designer tees quite expensive. So we scoured the web for some DIY techniques that yield equally impressive results, without breaking the bank. Which DIY will you try?

 

An embellished striped tank top: http://www.studs-and-pearls.com/2010/09/diy-embellished-striped-tank-top.html

Iron-on letters are easy and fun:  http://www.garancedore.fr/en/2013/04/10/we-made-this-the-embellished-tee/

Embellishing a Tee with Natalie Chanin: http://jezebel.com/5911540/how-to-embellish-any-t+shirt-with-designer-natalie-chanin

No-sew appliques make for an easy DIY project http://www.ispydiy.com/2012/03/my-diy-embellished-tank.html

A corsage-style t-shirt with handmade flowers: http://thecraftingchicks.com/2010/07/would-you-like-some-flowers-with-your-t-shirt.html

Emily Thompson

What to Wear to a Wedding

Has wedding season already begun for you? The next couple months are usually a whirlwind of weddings, bridal showers, bridal luncheons, and the like, which means it’s high time we figured out what we’re going to wear. From lacy little numbers to figure flattering sheath dresses, we found so many fab cotton options that we’re having trouble choosing! We love that they are each so versatile, regardless of the occasion. Whether it’s a garden wedding, or a barefoot-on-the-beach ceremony, or a dressy bridal shower, they’re all appropriate. Click on the images to purchase. Which ones do you love?

 

 

¬¬¬4.collective Print Cap Sleeve Cotton Sheath Dress, $315, Nordstrom.com

¬¬¬4.collective Print Cap Sleeve Cotton Sheath Dress, $315, Nordstrom.com

Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti Tile Print Cotton Poplin Tunic Dress, $343.74, my-wardrobe.com

Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti Tile Print Cotton Poplin Tunic Dress, $343.74, my-wardrobe.com

Black Halo Jackie Cotton Lace Dress, $390, neimanmarcus.com

Black Halo Jackie Cotton Lace Dress, $390, neimanmarcus.com

Collette by Collette Dinnigan Portobello cotton-lace dress, $410, Net-a-porter.com

Collette by Collette Dinnigan Portobello cotton-lace dress, $410, Net-a-porter.com

Jil Sander cotton-blend dress, $544.98, TheOutnet.com

Jil Sander cotton-blend dress, $544.98, TheOutnet.com

Max Mara 'Bingo' Floral Print Stretch Cotton Dress, $750, Nordstrom.com

Max Mara 'Bingo' Floral Print Stretch Cotton Dress, $750, Nordstrom.com

Otto Printed Cotton Dress, $265, Reiss.com

Otto Printed Cotton Dress, $265, Reiss.com

 Thakoon Addition Floral-print cotton-blend dress, $275.03, TheOutnet.com

Thakoon Addition Floral-print cotton-blend dress, $275.03, TheOutnet.com

¬¬¬4.collective Print Cap Sleeve Cotton Sheath Dress, $315, Nordstrom.comPhilosophy di Alberta Ferretti Tile Print Cotton Poplin Tunic Dress, $343.74, my-wardrobe.comBlack Halo Jackie Cotton Lace Dress, $390, neimanmarcus.comCollette by Collette Dinnigan Portobello cotton-lace dress, $410, Net-a-porter.comJil Sander cotton-blend dress, $544.98, TheOutnet.comMax Mara 'Bingo' Floral Print Stretch Cotton Dress, $750, Nordstrom.comOtto Printed Cotton Dress, $265, Reiss.comThakoon Addition Floral-print cotton-blend dress, $275.03, TheOutnet.com

 

Emily Thompson

Tangerine Dream

Tangerine Dream
Tangerine Dream by cottonfashion featuring mata traders
                                         
One of our favorite trending colors right now is tangerine. It’s bold, bright, and beautiful – and best of all, flatters many skin tones. It’s a quick way to add a healthy glow to your wardrobe, whether you’re sporting a gorgeous pleated skirt or just some fun accessories. From dip-dyed cotton shorts to a gorgeous printed dress, we love how brands and designers have incorporated this fab color into their line up. And best of all, it’s a color with staying power: pair that cotton sweater with skinny jeans and ankle booties come fall for a cool weather wardrobe win. How do you dream in tangerine?
Emily Thompson

Designer Spotlight On: Maurices

Maurices Dress

We fell in love with Maurices’ cute, casual, and trendy cotton looks at Cotton’s 24 Hour Runway Show back in March. Easy separates and adorable dresses hit the runway, and we were hard pressed to pick a favorite. Luckily, their website is filled to the brim with some fabulous cotton fashions – and all at prices that are very easy on the wallet. If you’re looking for a few wardrobe updates for summer, but don’t want to spend a pretty penny, take a look at some of our favorite finds from Maurices – all under $50!

What’s your favorite look?

 

Elbow Sleeve Stripes Blazer, $39, Maurices.com

Elbow Sleeve Stripes Blazer, $39, Maurices.com

Heathered Peplum Knit Top, $24, Maurices.com

Heathered Peplum Knit Top, $24, Maurices.com

Vigoss® Floral Colored Jegging, $48.98, Maurices.com

Vigoss® Floral Colored Jegging, $48.98, Maurices.com

Ombre Belted Ruffle Tube Dress, $34, Maurices.com

Ombre Belted Ruffle Tube Dress, $34, Maurices.com

Elbow Sleeve Stripes Blazer, $39, Maurices.comHeathered Peplum Knit Top, $24, Maurices.comVigoss® Floral Colored Jegging, $48.98, Maurices.comOmbre Belted Ruffle Tube Dress, $34, Maurices.com

 

Emily Thompson

Spring Accessories for the Cottonista

  

Cotton Two-Tone Web Belt, $27.20, BrooksBrothers.com

Cotton Two-Tone Web Belt, $27.20, BrooksBrothers.com

 Cotton Gabardine Tote Bag, $850, Burberry.com

Cotton Gabardine Tote Bag, $850, Burberry.com

Minnie Rose Cotton Fringe Ruana, $145, Saksfifthavenue.com

Minnie Rose Cotton Fringe Ruana, $145, Saksfifthavenue.com

Helen Kaminski Raffia & Cotton Hat, $98, Nordstrom.com

Helen Kaminski Raffia & Cotton Hat, $98, Nordstrom.com

Lem Lem Dehina Beehive cotton-blend voile scarf, $140, Net-a-porter.com

Lem Lem Dehina Beehive cotton-blend voile scarf, $140, Net-a-porter.com

 Mara Hoffman Printed Beach Bag, $330, Zappos.com

Mara Hoffman Printed Beach Bag, $330, Zappos.com

Pierre Hardy Cotton Cube Pouch, $210, Forwardforward.com

Pierre Hardy Cotton Cube Pouch, $210, Forwardforward.com

Day Trip Backpack, $69.50, Quiksilver.com

Day Trip Backpack, $69.50, Quiksilver.com

Cotton Two-Tone Web Belt, $27.20, BrooksBrothers.comCotton Gabardine Tote Bag, $850, Burberry.comMinnie Rose Cotton Fringe Ruana, $145, Saksfifthavenue.comHelen Kaminski Raffia & Cotton Hat, $98, Nordstrom.comLem Lem Dehina Beehive cotton-blend voile scarf, $140, Net-a-porter.comMara Hoffman Printed Beach Bag, $330, Zappos.comPierre Hardy Cotton Cube Pouch, $210, Forwardforward.comDay Trip Backpack, $69.50, Quiksilver.com

Bright colors may be all the rage this spring, but so are more neutral colors, too. Easy accessories like lightweight cotton scarves and printed beach bags are a great way to add some color to your look, but if you’re on the hunt for more neutral accessories that can work all year long, well, we’ve got you covered. Consider a wide, woven cotton belt to add shape and definition to a simple dress. Or a utilitarian tote in a handsome cotton gabardine, which is large and sturdy enough to hold all your beach accessories – and will be perfect for a quick weekend getaway come fall, too.

Click on the images to purchase. What’s your favorite warm weather accessory?

Emily Thompson

Hayden Panettiere Stars in The Fabric of Our Lives® Campaign!

It’s official: Hayden Panettiere is the new star of The Fabric of Our Lives® Campaign!

Watch the commercial, which will air on FOX and CW tonight, and  follows Hayden through a day in her life in Nashville – all while wearing cotton, of course. From a showstopping Stella McCartney dress, which Hayden models in the lobby of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, to a casually chic cotton outfit worn at the Station Inn, featuring a jacket by Helmet Lang, a Free People cotton shirt, and fuchsia and white striped jeans from Isabel Marant, and a gorgeous canary yellow M Missoni dress, which Hayden wears while shopping for the perfect pair of cowboy boots at Nashville Cowboy, her looks all capture the style and versatility we love about cotton.

And while fashion may be first in our hearts, music is undoubtedly second, and we love Hayden’s take on The Fabric of My Life.” It’s country cross-over chic!  What’s your favorite part about Hayden’s new commercial?