To Bare Or Not to Bare

That is the question! We were having a discussion in the office today about whether we :

#1: Should wear sleeveless after a certain age/weight/or for a certain occasion.

#2: Should wear panty hose.

#3 Felt comfortable wearing the graphic prints that are out there or if we should leave that to the younger generation.

The answers varied! Two of us--- one a size 18 and the other a size 4 (we'll forgive her as she is related to me) did not feel comfortable wearing sleeveless at all. I said never, unless to work out or if it was so hot and I had to be outside like last year in August in Vegas.

One, a size 14 felt comfortable as long as she could put a jacket on if needed.

None of us wear hose anymore. All of us hate hose. All of us wear body shapers from time to time. With me being the most resistant. I get hot.

And, all of us wear some form of the graphic prints. A tip for the graphic prints like our Kaktus dress above: Think about layering if you are in a bold mood. Stay within one color scheme and keep hemlines consistent. Pair with a statement jewlery piece such as as a piece from our own Nina Nguyen or Marjorie Epstein that won't break the bank or a chain link set which is always in style such as our Black Cat Plus Chain link necklace.

We are T-10 and counting to our new home at http://www.blackcatplus.com/

our new site! Hope you like our new look! We will be anxious to hear.

One last thought, I cut this one out and put it on my bulletin board. Quote for the Week: Keep reinventing yourself until you become the woman you want to be. Diane von Furstenberg

We're working on it! How about you! More Later. Jodell

Blackcatplusblog: Tailor Made

Blackcatplusblog: Tailor Made

Graphically Speaking

Yes, the power of print is in full swing this season!! And it couln't happen at a better time. When everyone is watching their pennies there is one bright spot in the fashion landscape this year. Graphic prints, bold florals and animal prints will be front and center for quite some time. Especially in dresses for the spring and summer seasons.

Take a look at our Macrame print Colorblock Dress from Mui Loco. This print is a perfect example of a print that has a bit of a retro appeal.

Or Black Cat Plus's Animal Print Dress as they are great examples of what we mean. Prints are everywhere for plus size contemporary fashion this season. Make the most of your dollar and give yourself a welcome spirit boost by wearing something that has "stand out potential." Color and print are the biggest success stories this year and there is not an exception for the plus size fashion conscious.

What's great about these prints?? You won't see yourself coming and going!!

Like paint-inspired floral in a great color. Check out Connected Apparel's two piece dress with a whimsical print set against a great background color.

Take a stroll on a summer's day and skip along the sidewalk once or twice for me!

Happy Shopping. More as it happens! Jodell

What To Wear To A Friend's Summer Wedding?

We have had a few inquiries recently about proper wedding attire.

Just to review:
#1: What does the invitation say? Any clues?
#2: How formal is it? What time of day? Morning, Evening? Kiyonna's Black Scalloped Lace Dress is a Perfect Choice for Evening? For Daytime, there are many patterns and prints out there. From Linda Lundstrom's Pretty Leaves Dress to Connected Apparel's Blue Multi Banded Short Sleeve Dress. If you like sleeveless, daytime is a time for sleeveless. Nightime for strapless.

Overall, keep the look light and festive. Be careful with white and do try to make sure you find out what the attendants are wearing. One wedding I attended, I blended right in with the bridal party!

Jewelry should be minimal as should makeup, hairstyle, and accessories. Need a bag? Check out our Uddini Mini's. So cute. Love is in the air..Reminds me of my August wedding, almost 23 years ago. Remind me to tell you about the time I lost my slip while walking down the aisle. Hey--it was the 80's and we had a ton of dress on the bottom... Only me! A reminder, try things on and wear them a bit before the day. You will be able to tell if shoes are too tight a strap is not right or a neckline is too low.

Happy Wedding! Jodell P.S. We are in the process of building our new site!! We have outgrown the old site! YAY!

Model Search Fall Campaign

Hi again!

A few things!! #1 our Fall Model Search campaign is on the site. Interested in submitting your photo to us? Go to http://stores.blackcatplus.com/Service.bok for details! Coming soon. The Black Cat Plus Model Search 35 Alive for woman ages 35+! My newest favorite show is She's Got The Look with Kim Alexis on the TV Land Channel on Wednesdays at 10pm!

The women are so amazing!

Now, all we need is She's Got the Look PLUS! I am addicted! I have my favorite who I want to win!

Think about it! Wouldn't it be the BEST to have a model search for plus size women who are 35 and older!! So, it got us talking here...AND---stay tuned for details for our 35 ALIVE Model Search Contest! It is time! Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes!
Jodell

Got me to thinking even more...how about a Sex and the City type of show with women who are plus size! HA! We are working on that as well!!

It's a Jungle Out There.....Dress Accordingly

I love that quote. It is one of my favorite quotes of all time and is from Candace Bushnell's Lipstick Jungle.

How do we budget for a tight economy--yet still maintain our signature style while staying competitive in the workplace?

Easy! Plus size women can benefit from the contemporary safari styles!

A survey from Cotton Incporporated's Lifestyle Monitor in the May 29th issue of Women's Wear Daily found that most women describe their work clothes as "business-like with freedom." Freedom to incorporate a bit of her own signature style!

Incporporate safari-inspired pieces and accessories into your daytime wardrobe! Put a jacket over a piece for daytime dressing and take the jacket off for hot summer night on the town.

A perfect example is our Black Cat Plus Animal Print Dress shown above.

It is easy this season to find animal print in clothing pieces and accessories.

Like the look but afraid that it will be too TOO?? Invest in a good safari style jacket and accessorize with animal print like our Uddini Giraffe print handbag! Either way, you will be prepared for whatever happens out there in the "Jungle!"

More later. Jodell

What Will You Do With Your Summer Vacation?

Can't wait--this weekend marks the official start of hot, summer nights, playful days, and memorable moments to treasure for a lifetime.

So, what do you have to do this summer? I have to teach business courses at two of our local colleges, run my web and consulting businesses, clean up around the house--actually I am looking forward to that one :) it was a long winter wasn't it?, buy for black cat plus's fall season and see what is in store for Spring '09, finalize our private label product line, finalize our next model search contest-attorneys take forever to review...reamp our web site...btw--all suggestions and input are welcome on that one..send them to Jodell@blackcatplus.com, go to Chicago and New York City, attend a few summer concerts, visit with friends and family, take one of our show cats to get his champion status, get back to doing yoga and pilates on a regular basis, eat regular meals instead of eating while standing up, talking on the phone, or sitting in front of the computer...and look forward to spending time with my husband every day and especially when we go on our summer Vegas vacation.
Whew! That is a lot! But I cannot wait!! I love summer! What will I WEAR to all of these events?

I have a checklist of things to bring with me to the various events...capris are still a hot item for plus size women. Remember to go to a bit longer length if you are short. Pressed for space in a suitcase? Take a set that you can mix and match with other items. We love the casual yoga inspired sets from Neon Buddha and Kaktus. Want to show off your legs?? Try our Nina Nguyen anklet. Nina made extra long lenth just for us! I love mine and wear it all of the time. The gemstones in the anklet are so pretty. I have to start packing now!!

How about you?? What do you have to do this summer? Let Black Cat Plus help you make memorable moments!!

Oh and here's our memorable moments promotion!! Sign up on our mailing list and receive a coupon for $20 off any regular priced apparel item and give us one suggestion and we will make it TWO $20 coupons!! Come 'on!! Help us to our goal of being the #1 Plus Size Web Boutique for contemporary plus size fashions!! We can do it with your help!!

Oh--and one more thing to add to the list--one more week until I attend the premier of Sex and the City with friends!! More as it happens...
Jodell

What's In Your Closet?

Just a couple of real quick things. A bit of this and that this week. Tells you where my mind is at!

Quick shameless product plug here! But we are excited to have our Kristine Accessories back in stock!

Finally!! We have our new shipment of the infamous flat wallets back on our site! Fun colors in turquoise, hot pink, and lime and the staple colors of beige, black and the metallics! Check them out when you get a sec. Why do we love them? They are flat and do not take up a lot of room at all in your purse and you would not believe all of the stuff that you can get in them. And while you are at it, from Kristine--check out the square bangle bracelets, stackable and a different twist on a favorite accessory.

In other news, we are getting ready to finalize our fall buying plan! Can't wait for you to see what we have in "store" no pun intended here :) for you for Fall!

Want a hint or two? What will you see? It is official that Floral prints, natural shades and black will be strong this Fall and separates, especially jackets and blouses, will be key pieces. We're working on it!

Speaking of separates? Take inventory now to see what what can transition easily from spring to summer to fall. I love reading my surveys and I recently read that tops out-number bottoms in women's closets by a 3 to 1 margin. Does your closet reflect those stats? Mine does. I also have had jackets that I have had around for years that I still wear. How about you?

Our best sellers this week have been Fenini, Kaktus, and once again the awesome Kiyonna line.

For those of you who have inquired about our next modeling contest? We are working on it! Expect to find details on our home page at the end of June 08 for our fall campaign.

In the meantime, we have a contest going on. Sign up now on BlackCatPlus.com and we will email you a $20 off coupon good towards any full price item worth $40 or more that we have on our site!! We love our customers!! And want YOU as one of our preferred customers!!

Jodell

Tailor Made

A girl's best friend? A good tailor. Tailoring is a necessary piece to dressing well. Recently, a local customer saw something on my web site that she absolutely loved. However, when she tried it on, the two piece garment looked big and unkept on her frame. She was crushed as she really loved the fabric and the garment. So, I suggested she buy it and take it to the tailor to see what he said he could do with the skirt set. If she did not like the suggestions, she could bring the item back and I would refund her purchase. I gave her the names of two tailors I work with and trust would do a good job.

Don't know a good tailor in your area? Ask around and try them out by starting with a no problem alteration such as taking in a hemline or taking in a skirt at the waist. Watch while they pin the garment and be clear with them about how you want that garment to look.

My customer? The end result was spectacular!! The tailor "trimmed" the side seams and took in about four inches total, added more ornate buttons and took up the hemline. The outfit looked totally different on my customer and she loved the results.

What kinds of things can be taken to the tailor without a lot of cost? The easier pieces are dresses, pants, and suits or separates that are not too difficult to work with.

Really like a piece that is too small? Buy two and have a tailor insert fabric from the extra garment. A good tailor can get that garment to look as it was tailor made! In cost-conscious times, take a look at your wardrobe and see if there is anything that you can have re-worked for a totally new look and new outfit!! More as it happens! Jodell

Spring/Summer Must-Haves!

Ok!! Checking in real quick this week!! So much to do here at BCP!! Thanks to our customers--we have doubled our sales this month!! YAY!! We look forward to bringing you up and coming designers, hot, hot, hot accessories, and flattering plus size contemporary fashions!! Thanks so much for the encouragement and support!! It has been a fun journey!

Ready? Get the pen!

The next installment of spring and summer must-haves!!

#1 on our list and now yours!--A great, basic, white shirt. We KNOW you need one. You know you need one! You have probably worn your other one to death and it is ready for the give-away pile. Crisp, tailored and even sheer for evening. A simple shirt is the answer to your prayers. Well, we found one that fits and is anything but ordinary!! We love our Fenini Asymetrical Shirt pictured above.

You'll also notice what we call a bit of "Flounce" details this spring and summer. Yes, you do too know what we mean!! Ruffles and bows and all things that we thought about when we were young fashionistas in training! A bit of flounce is perfect to add just a hint of femininity. Check out the details in tops and dresses. Sleeves, hemlines, necklines that is where you will see a bit of flounce!

A must have item-- full skirts in wonderful patterns. Flowered, printed in abstracts as shown above, plaids, stripes, they work for work or for a picnic outside! Pair with a basic top and you have QUITE the outfit! Just remember, full on the bottom needs a close-fitting top to strike the right pose--i.e. balance! And as for hemlines, up, down and everything in-between!! Anything goes!!

And for shoes....you may want to check out a pair of wedges especially if you need height, like a pump. Wedges are comfortable just like a flat. They are so right with everything casual from long skirts to short shorts!!

Have a wide foot?? Check out Jodell's favorite store for wide shoes. Leonard's Wide Shoes in Las Vegas!! Wait, you do not have to travel to Vegas. Well, you can if you want. Remember what happens in Vegas... You can order on the web!! Leonard used to live in Rochester and went to the same high school as Jodell!

There's Trivia for you!! Great products and great service at Leonard's!!

P.S. We have more items coming in for Mother's Day!! Wait until you see our Yoga wear and for early summer--more Wraps!!

More as it happens!! Jodell

Jackets Jackets and More Jackets!!

Want a suggestion for a way to be cost-conscious and right in style without breaking the bank?

Add one item this season to your wardrobe! A topper such as a Jacket or a Vest!

Jackets and vests are wardrobe builders that can go high-style or casual.

Jackets can be in such fabrics as denim, linen, silk or cotton twill. Take a look at our Kaktus cotton twill Picasso and Minstral Jackets! They are a colorful, playful and fun pieces that we could not resist!

Don't want anything too heavy?? Try adding a lighweight laying piece which is perfect for summer. Our Belush cutwork detail jacket is a great option at a Me-WOW Price!

Need to attend a special occasion and want to wear a basic color and fabric underneath a jacket? Try a fabric that is elegant and refined such as silk! Our Rising Phoenix Jacket is a real show stopper and qualifies as wearable art! You will not see this jacket on other attendees!

A few fit tips: Make sure that the jacket is long enough to and large enough in the upper arms to fit. There is nothing worse than to have a too-short jacket as it ruins the whole silhouette.

Also, back in style-the vest!! We went high style with our vest choice this season. Vests can actually be found in the same fabrics as the jacket and a wonderful piece that can top off an outfit.
Happy Shopping!! Jodell

Dear Vogue...Can you include the larger sizes in your SHAPE issue?

WOW! I was so excited to see that the latest copy of Vogue featured the SHAPE issue. And then I read it...

Ok, to be fair, I will be positive first. I have written this entry about ten times because every time I re-read it, I came off as sounding haughty and pissed, so I would start again. And I am not a haughty and pissed kind of person as I don't think that accomplishes anything to do with positive change. The tone I am trying for is exasperated and flabbergasted because I don't think this concept is difficult to understand or hard to pull off. So picture me exasperated and flabbergasted here because I need to get this written.

It was so great to see that a fashion "bible" such as Vogue is dedicating an issue to shape and featuring an article entitled, "Dressing For Every Shape From Size 0-16." Great for the 14's and 16's. I am glad to see that those sizes are being included.

Not so great for me because I am an 18! And what about 20, 22, 24 and up? We all wear clothes last I checked?

I was eager to read about dressing for your body type, since at Black Cat Plus we are always on the lookout for silhouette info as we include silhouette info in our plus size contemporary clothing descriptions. And, the 87 Swimsuits to Flatter Every Figure article? Every figure...not so much.

The five different body types mentioned in Vogue? Tall, Pregnant, Thin, Curvy, and Short.

And the rest of us? Some of us do read Vogue?

In Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour's Letter from the Editor she talks about the young models on the runways at the recent New York fall fashion week collections. She said, "Overall, they were pale and thin, and entirely lacking in the joyfulness and charm that once defined the supermodels. This is, of course, not their fault: Designers now near-uniformly favor a non-vivacious, homogenous ideal."

Note to Designers and Vogue: Ever see the plus size models? Not pale and thin. And joyful and charming is an understatment!! They look as though they are glad to be there and are glad to be who they are!

Wintour urged designers to to "consider athleticism and vitality as assets in the wearing of great fashion."

P.S. to Vogue: How about we add, "full figured and vivacious?"

We're here...please see us!

Jodell

The Daytime Dress a Spring Essential

Pressed for time in the morning and want to grab something quick and easy to wear? How about this spring's essential for stylish, contemporary plus size fashions?? Consider semi-tailored, close fitting dresses in either a wrap, belted shirtdress or sheath style are sure to be popular this season and must-have pieces to add to any wardrobe. Note in our blackcatplus descriptions which silhouette is flattering to your shape. As I have mentioned in earlier posts, there are plenty of choices this spring in dresses from prints to solids--bold and muted and everything in between. Why do dresses continue to stay in our boutiques and in our closets??
#1--They are easy to wear!! You do not have to think to coordinate!! Pick a dress and grab a bag and shoes and you are off to work!
#2--They are business-like and give you freedom to work and you can show a glimpse of your personality with details on the dress or adding accessories.
#3--They are longer and have more volume than in past, seasons which can easily be taken from day from work, luncheons, out for dinner, weekend party, and shopping to evening--parties and dinner dates! You can wear a dress over trousers or pair with tights and high heels.
Want a change of pace?? Incorporate two-piece dresses and skirt sets to mix and match your wardrobe.
You are sure to find a dress this season that is vesatile and can be used for work and many other occasions. Want to be on the best dressed list?? Check out our dress category on black cat plus---we are adding more styles each week. Happy Dressing!! Jodell

Top Five Big Trends For Spring

There are actually 15...but we will discuss the trends in blocks of five to make it easier. Get a note pad!

As we have mentioned before, it is florals and bold graphics are still going strong! This season, designers have offered bouquets to color your favorite dress, skirt, or top. It is an explosion of florals. Check out our Garden Party category as we are adding new items each week.

Not to be outdone, bold graphics join the light and dark for a look that cannot go wrong! Take a look at the newest additions to our art deco category. You'll find pieces that you'll want to add to your wardrobe.

Patent Leather makes a big comeback! Remember, when Easter meant a time for shiny Mary Janes? Now is the time to go and get patent leather shoes. Pair your new shoes with our Uddini Black Patent Handbag. And while you are at it, did you know that grey is the new black? Especially in accessories. Take a look at our Uddini Pewter Handbag. Hint: This is a color you will be able to take into fall!

And bangles...pile 'em on!! The more the better!! Like potato chips--ok, the low fat kind, :) you cannot stop at one!
More to come! Jodell

Black Cat Plus Selects Authentic Woman Model Search Winner

What a week!! Whew! Trying to select the winner of our model search contest was trying to say the least.

Black Cat Plus is pleased to announce that Erica Larsen is the winner of its Search for the Authentic Woman Model Search Contest. Larsen will be featured as the web boutique’s model for its Spring 2008 Collections. As a thank you, she also receives a two-night stay at the Del Monte Lodge in Rochester, NY and a $500 wardrobe credit from Black Cat Plus.

I have to thank all of our model search applicants for taking the time to enter and to tell their personal story. We had over 100 submissions!! I was just astonished by the response and overwhelmed when reading the essays of the contest applicants. I really wanted to show the world that confidence comes in all shapes and sizes and from that confidence comes the power to change perceptions and reading the submissions of our applicants--we are on the right track!!

We are in the process of changing perceptions about what it means to be plus size in America! We must live who we are RIGHT NOW! Although this season, we could only select one model, we are adding more models for our Fall Collection. Stay tuned for details.
And from the bottom of a grateful heart--thanks to all of you who entered. If I have not been in touch personally, I will be as I am in the process of thanking each and every one of you! Jodell

Stretching Your Clothing Budget This Season

There are plenty of ways to make your clothing budget go farther this season. Living within a budget does not mean having to settle for poor quality clothing.

There are four things that we look at when purchasing clothing for our customers at Black Cat Plus: Quality, Price, Trend, and Brand.

Quality refers to two things: fabric and garment workmanship. I have talked about how important it is to invest in garments that can be worn year round. We have added our Four Seasons Boutique with pieces that we have found to have excellent quality, great style, and can be worn year round. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and spandex are also more moderately priced and high quality. Lightweight wools and cashmeres are always a good investment as they can also be worn year-round.

Next, really inspect the fabric and workmanship of the garment from the collar to the hem. When examing the workmanship look at buttons, collar, seams, and lining. The buttons should be secured through the layers of fabric. The collar should fold and not gather or pucker. Inside seams and patterns should match and there should not be any hanging threads. Look at the stitching to make sure that it is straight. The lining should have extra material and not be hanging.

Pay attention to how close the clothing piece reflects the season's trends. A good way to still keep in line with trends without taking a chance that your trendy piece will lose its luster after the season is to invest in a trendy color that can be worn into the following season. Good bets this spring---anything green! Investing in one good piece and mixing it with a more trendy/less expensive piece is another good way to compromise without breaking the bank.

Base the price on a cost per wear formula. How many times do you anticipate wearing a particular piece of clothing relative to its cost as it can make the difference as to whether to invest.

Brand name is also a consideration. With our Black Cat Plus Label products--(one of these days I will write about my experience with designing and the process of manufacturing--it's been quite a learning experience) our goal is to offer stylish, contemporary, plus size clothing of good quality and at moderate prices.

Of course, shop the sales!! Keep in contact with your favorite stores. You can even send us a note if you want us to let you know if an item goes on sale. In addition to our Back Alley Clearance Items, we have added our Daily Value Category for a daily special--either dollars or percentage off on a surprise item. Check back daily to see if one of your favorite regular priced items has made its way to our Daily Value Category.

More as it happens! Jodell

Read Jodell's Guest Post at Big Beautiful U!

Read my guest Post when you get a minute and check out this site from "A plus-size mom with a plus-size personality writing about fashion, beauty and advice for all of us big, beautiful women of the world!"

I was excited to do a guest post for Sandy of Big Beatiful U as to what is coming up this spring for the plus size woman!

I am also excited to see another plus size resource such as BBU! Categories range from beauty to health and fitness to plus size news. There is a lots and lots of information right at your finger tips!
I love the sense of community that BBU and other plus size referral sites offer. We must support and take advantage of sites such as BBU--they save us time, give us another perspective, and offer us the opportunity to exchange ideas and information. Check it out---and while you are there---read my post for the spring preview! More as it happens Jodell

Accessories that Accomodate and Flatter

Accessories don't have to cost an arm and a leg this season. We can have fun, flirty and eco-conscious necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

The focus is on the wrist this spring: adorn your wrist with fun, playful bangles and materials that remind us of our connection to the earth, sky and sea. At Black Cat Plus, we have recently begun working on our accessory line to find pieces just like our clothing lines, that coordinate with our stylish, contemporary plus size groupings and fit and flatter.

We had questions from customers in the store and on the web about which pieces we would recommend with our featured designers. so....we got to thinking, what if we did our homework and pushed the designers to make pieces that WE CAN WEAR! It took some time, but we found two designers who accomodated our wishes and you will be seeing their work featured on our site--Nina Nguyen and Margery Epstein. We are excited to introduce them and their work to you and hope you will be excited to add their pieces to your wardrobe.

We are currently working with three designers and manufacturers to make sure that the pieces we select are flattering to the plus size silhouette and are long enough to accomodate without distorting the look of the piece. Ever tried to pry on a bracelet that was made for a size 2 wrist? How about a necklace that you loved but was too short? Not good.

Have a fashion emergency that involves your accessories? Now, we can help! Remember: Focus is on the wrist!! Check out our Black Cat Plus Bracelets! More to come!! Jodell

Seasonless Dressing

Svoboda's Valerie Jacket and Charlotte Pant at The Black Cat Plus Four Seasons Boutique

Back from the Trade Shows! We saw some great new items to help you fill your closet with great essential pieces this coming spring!

Yes, pics are coming soon and you will be able to pre-order your favorites! Don't be left out!

Small boutiques such as ours have limited quantities and we want you to have the pieces you cannot live without.

Of particular Fashion Interest---You will find this coming season a trend towards fashionable clothes that are considered seasonless. What is seasonless dressing? Seasonless dressing offers clothes that can be worn year-round, taken from spring to summer to fall and depending upon where you live--even part of the winter. With our climate getting warmer as a whole and our desire to wear lighterweight clothing, designers and clothing manufacturers have responded with fabrics such as Modal and combed cotton that can be worn throughout the year. Over the next few days we will be adding our Four Seasons Category to our site. A perfect example above: Svoboda's Valerie Jacket and Charlotte Pant. This jacket and matching pant can be worn year round.

For now, check out http://stores.blackcatplus.com/Categories.bok?category=Kiyonna our Kiyonna clothing boutique leads the way in seasonless dressing.

We have chosen over 20 items to begin this category. It is just another way to offer another alternative in lifestyle dressing for our customers.
Jodell

Eco-friendly Fashion: The new Black is GREEN

Hi From Las Vegas!! The CFO---Chief Fashion Officer and our buyers from Black Cat Plus are at our second Magic trade show. It has been a crazy week! And fun to see what is ahead!

By the way, I found out what Magic stands for. Men's Apparel Guild Association of California. However, there are not just men's fashions at Magic. Picture a trade show with miiiiiiles of clothing, accessories, shoes. It is impressive... and for retailers an efficient way to do business and to get an overview of trends in fashion.

It is the place where we conduct the business of fashion--where Wall Street and the fashion industry come together and it takes place twice a year, once in August and once now in February. Above is a picture from one of the many fall fashion shows. I could not get anywhere NEAR the stage, so we took it from a staircase...not the greatest, but you can get an idea as to how many people attend and how extensive the show is.

There are 120,000 attendees from every country and representatives from 5000 brands and 4000 companies and 20,000 product lines --That is Magic in itself! There's your history lesson. :)

The message is loud and clear and what you will see this coming season and in the seasons ahead are Eco-friendly fashions in the form of organic fabrics, textures that are remniscent of nature, and colors that reflect our commitment to our environment.

We are not just talking about clothing from socially responsible companies who care for our environment, but clothing that is woven from natural fibers and where the processing does not hurt our environment.
We have begun to build our eco-friendly fashion category at Black Cat Plus. We are seeking out the best in eco friendly plus size fashions and have found several new vendors who are environmentally responsbile AND fashion forward. In the coming weeks, we are excited for you to see what we have found. This is a movement that when combined with the casual lifestyle and seasonless dressing concept is here to stay!
More as it happens! Jodell

Spring Preview '08

Ash and Sara's Floral Mod Print Tee Buy at Black Cat Plus

Linda Lundstrom's Pretty Leaves Dress at Black Cat Plus

On my way to Magic in Las Vegas: No, I am not going to a show for Magicians! Although sometimes, I think our job in retail is to create Magic for our customers!

Magic is the trade show where retailers do their buying for the next season ahead. It is exciting and fun to go to trade shows. Picture miles and miles and miles of clothing. Fun, but tiring.

In this case, the next season we are shopping for is Fall '08. Yes, Fall '08..

Most importantly, we are also putting the final touches on our Spring '08 Collections.

For now, we are focused on Spring '08. In the next month, at http://www.blackcatplus.com/, you will see our edited collections of the best of the best of we believe are show stoppers for Spring '08. We are almost done searching for THE LOOKS that you cannot live without!

So stay tuned, we will post pictures of our collections as our shipments arrive.

For now, think about what you want to add or incorporate into your wardrobe for Spring. Hard to tell from just a few paragraphs here, I know.

But, there is a new wave of fashion developing, a bit of romance this Spring that has a spirit of kinder, gentler times. Florals, solids, art deco patterns, and pastels. And just when you think that the tone is subdued, you will find colors that POP mixed in.

It is my favorite time of year--the promise of things to come.

And while you are at it. Don't forget to check out our Winter Clearance Sale with lines from Linda Lundstrom, Pure & Co., Kiyonna, and More.

Now is the time to try some of the items that you have been waiting for to go on sale and fill your closet with great items.

More as it happens from Las Vegas! I can't wait! Jodell

Special Cat Walk Valentines Day Offer @ Blackcatplus.com

News From the Back Alley:
We have quite a deal we are meowing about at BlackCatPlus.com!

Our Special Valentines Day Cat Walk Offer: Spend $150 from now until 2/14 and SAVE $50 later!

Our on-line boutique features stylish plus size contemporary fashions from Linda Lundstrom, Pure & Co., Kiyonna, Svoboda, Kaktus, Y.A.S.B., Black Cat Plus Label, and many more!

Your coupon will be e-mailed to you immediately following purchase. Offer is good on any full price and/or sale item combinations. And you will receive Free shipping on any $100 purchase.

Come check us out! Coupon is good from 2/15/08 until 3/3/08. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Denim is the New Answer to Casual Pants

Back to Denim: I was reading Women's Wear Daily Lifestyle Monitor Column yesterday and this week's column talked about how women, nearly 70% of them, prefer to wear denim jeans rather than casual slacks. That's me!! How about you???

The average number of jeans a women owns is now 9 pairs. I counted in a previous post how many jeans I had, I think since then I have added another style and color.

Please, Don't tell my husband! I just LOVE jeans!

In our quest to find the best of the best each season, I still cannot talk enough about the Svoboda Cate Jeans.

As I sit and type I am wearing the Svoboda Cate in Black. I just went out to dinner in them, paired it with a jacket and casual tee underneath and instant cool outfit. I have to twist my customers arms to try the jeans on in our store-front store. I think it is because they are not the typical style of jean, but they are oh so flattering on. The wide band minimizes and flattens the stomach and the butt, the butt looks great! Gives it curve appeal!! :)

And I also love it when important people who know a lot more than I do--agree with me!

Alison Sokolove, fashion editor for The Tobe Eports, says, "Creating the right fit for the plus-size ia a tough undertaking. Svoboda denim does it best since they already specialize in plus sizes."

So... Try the jeans!! Just try them. You have probably several other pairs of the classic style, but think a bit more dressy, a bit more tailored and you have the Cate Jean. Mention that you saw this blog and we'll include a free gift in with your purchase. It's a gift for finding the smartest pair of jeans!!

What do women really want in their jeans? Think about what you look for when buying a pair of jeans. Most of us, according to the survey that Cotton Incorporated's Lifestyle Monitor conducted recently, look at the fit, cut and length as the number one priority. Quality and durability is second and comfort is third. Is that how you would rank your priorities for jean purchases?

The Cate is a classic exanple of great fit, great quality and great comfort. I remember lying on the BED to put a pair of jeans on back in the...never mind. A number of years ago-when I was a mere child!

Designers are getting the fact that plus size women wants to look as fashionable as their smaller size counterparts. Remember, the Svoboda Cate is the first place to go for a jean that is not your average jean! Stay tuned we are on the prowl for the spring's hottest jean. We'll keep you posted! Jodell

How To Look Good Naked

How To Look Good Naked. Yup, that is the name of the show. You know the one with Carson Kressly? I love that show. I love its spirit, I love the message, I love the transformation of the women on that show both inside and out and I love that the message is loud and clear if you choose to look beyond your nose and hear what it is trying to say!

YOU ARE ENOUGH.
Period.
I will say it again. YOU ARE ENOUGH!

I just read a review and I cannot even remember by whom to be honest or where, only that it was on the internet. When I went back to try and find it again, I cannot and that is making me even madder right now as I am furiously typing away. So when I calm down I will try to find it again. The review talked about how the women on the show should be encouraged to lose weight. OH FOR GOODNESS SAKE! That is NOT the point! For once, that is not the point or the message of this show.

I do not want to have one more woman come in here and apologize for her size. And by the way, I am not ONLY talking about plus size women who come into our boutique and do that. I had a size eight in here today who stopped trying on jeans because the eights did not fit in the two styles I grabbed. It was my fault and I grabbed the wrong size....."I will come back later, I will lose ten pounds, I will feel better, " she says.

Ugh.

To me, the point of this show is self acceptance. Self acceptance is the key to understanding who we are. Once we understand who we are-we can be who we are--we can then choose to truly live who we are--it is the greatest gift we can give to ourselves and those we love--to be who we are. No matter what size we are. YOU ARE ENOUGH! You are smart enough, pretty enough, thin enough, capable enough. Just live it. Don't wait to lose ten pounds, gain ten pounds, get hair colored or not colored. You are enough right now. Celebrate it. Jodell

Search for the Authentic Woman Model Search

I have received several emails asking for more information about Black Cat Plus's Authentic Woman Model Search Contest. There is no catch!! We are just looking for women to grace the pages of our new site.

As a trainer and speaker on women's leadership issues, I have discussed the concept of self-esteem many times and how self-esteem is central to our success in life. With that concept in mind, we have decided to portray women who are dedicated to being their own unique, authentic selves.

And, we want to show the world that confidence comes in all shapes and sizes, beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes and that true beauty comes from within.

We are excited to announce the Black Cat Plus Search for the Authentic Woman Model Search Contest!

Yes, we are on the prowl for models to grace our cat walk for our Spring '08 Collection! http://www.blackcatplus.com/

The requirements: Models must be 21 years of age, at least a size 12, must be willing to come to our showroom boutique in Rochester, NY and must provide a full length photograph in jpeg format. In addition models must answer two questions in short answer 500 word essay format: What is the best lesson I ever learned and how do I live an authentic life? Accomodations, ground transportation, and meals will be provided for the two day photo session. Contest deadline is March 15, 2008. Models will receive a $500 wardrobe credit for their services!

It could be you!! For details go to our customer service page on our website to find out more information. http://stores.blackcatplus.com/Service.bok Black Cat Plus offers stylish, contemporary fashions for plus size women. If you want to wear the latest and greatest styles in contemporary fashions, contact us! We would love to hear your story of how you keep it real and see you walk our cat walk!! Jodell

What Makes An Article of Clothing So Expensive?

One word. Quality. Sonya, owner of SoLia Boutique and I were having a conversation this afternoon about quality of clothing and what makes an article of clothing so expensive? In the age of disposable fashion, we are so used to cheaper quality that sometimes when we see a higher quality and higher priced garment we are in shock!

As our tastes mature, we get used to quality over quantity. I remember when I first started working right out of college, I was in the discount stores every weekend buying clothes. Now I would much rather have three to five key signature pieces to work into my wardrobe than several pieces that I will have to throw out because they have worn out.

To train your eye, start looking at fabric, workmanship and overall style. Close your eyes and feel the fabric. Look at the fabric and see how it drapes across your body. Compare fabrics--is it shiny-sometimes, not all of the time, sheen can be an indication of a cheaper fabric. How does the fabric feel against your skin? Is the fabric soft such as the Modal cotton tees from Kiyonna that our customers love and we sell so much of in our store. http://stores.blackcatplus.com/Categories.bok?category=Kiyonna.

Take a look at workmanship-how are the seams finished, and evaluate the quality of the overall garment? Do you have to dry clean the fabric or is it machine or hand washable--sometimes that makes a difference in price? How about the zippers and buttons?---do you have a hard time pulling up the zipper or buttoning the buttons? Canadian Designer, Linda Lundstrom, has some of the best quality workmanship I have ever seen. Take a look at her pieces on our site. http://stores.blackcatplus.com/Categories.bok?category=Linda+Lundstrom. There is not a single item that is unfinished and each item of hers can be a staple in this season's wardrobe. Her pieces are show stopper pieces for sure!

Also, take a look at where the garment is made. A garment made in the U.S., Canada, or Europe is simply going to cost more.

For plus size women, clothing quality is so essential to looking our very best. We cannot get away with cheap, unflattering pieces of clothing. This year make a promise to yourself to pay attention to what you are wearing and how you are dressing. Does your outfit make you look and feel your best. If not, take it off and donate it! Yes, you can still lose those ten or twenty pounds by all means, but dress for right now. It is the truth that people judge us by how we look. It is about confidence and how confident we are when we are wearing clothes that are made well and that we wear well.

Here's a practical suggestion for the New Year! Evaluate your closet and take a look at where you can add a few "keeper" pieces of your own that can be mixed or matched with anything in your wardrobe. Looking to donate old suits and career separates? Dress For Success, our favorite charity is the place. Go to our site for info or http://www.dressforsuccess.org/ for additional info. For those customers who donate in January, take 10% off of your order on www.blackcatplus.com! Use Code DFS when checking out! Jodell