I am always so excited to see new plus size labels hit the market, but nothing makes me happier than if a new line is just my aesthetic.  Ever since I saw the first promotional materials for Universal Standard – a brand aiming to fill the gap left by brands like Theory, Rag & Bone, and Vince in plus sizes –  I’ve been excited to try them out.  So when I saw the asymmetrical dress that I had been lusting after show up on the Gwynnie Bee New Arrivals preview, I did a little happy dance.  

One of the usual struggles with trying a new brand is figuring out fit, but trying Universal Standard through Gwynnie Bee made it easy to figure out my correct size.  I ended up sizing up one in this dress (I typically wear a size 16, but I’m wearing a size 18 here).  I recommend going up a size if you want a more relaxed fit.

I added my favorite faux fur vest and my new leopard booties.  I know some fashion “rules” proscribe wearing volume with volume (“not flattering,” they say), but I loved the combination.  It didn’t make me look skinnier, but that is not my goal.  As I wrote on Instagram, I happily break these rules, because fashion is about more than conforming to arbitrary guidelines – it is about self expression, and wearing what feels most authentic to me that day.  This look was perfect for AYCD brunch (aka drunch) with my good friend visiting from LA.  These pictures may or may not have been taken post-mimosas.

Outfit details:

Asymmetric drape tee dress: “Geneva Dress” by Universal Standard (via Gwynnie Bee)

Faux fur vest: Modamix (on sale now!)

Rose quartz necklace: Dara Senders 

Opaque black tights: Hue

Leopard booties: H&M

Top handle satchel: Kate Spade