Reader Question:
HI Shana and Molly,
I have been thinking ALOT about your quality over quantity post; and I am scared I am not quite sure where to start. I love the idea of spending more money on the basics i.e. great tees, knits, jeans, and boots to wear over and over. The only problem is...the quality stuff (J brand, Splendid, James Perse, J Crew etc) seem to be made for normal bodies. Where do we turn for the crazy big breasted, poochy, petite mommy bodies? I am lost. I was browsing Nordstrom's website and some of Eileen Fisher things look cute with good reviews. Have you tried her brand? I would LOVE more quality suggestions for the odd shapes of this world.
Hugs and Kisses
xoxo
Leslie
Answer:
Leslie, this is a great question. The short answer is YES: Stylish, flattering pieces can be found virtually anywhere. But some brands make it harder to find that hot-young-mom vibe we're all craving.
Now, for Eileen Fisher in particular....after your inquiry came in, I've spent a good amount of time perusing her line and reading reviews. Her clothing is pricey, but what you are essentially paying for is a great cut and fabulous fabric. Eileen Fisher clothing drapes and moves in a flattering, pretty way.
This You Tube video shows four members of the Eileen Fisher staff getting dressed and swapping pieces. You'll get a good idea of how well this clothing drapes:
My only concern with this line is the color palette. The line is truly a classic one, so you are pretty limited to whites, creams, grays and black. Since we're only talking about investment basics...I'm OK with it. However, if you are interested in this season's trends (color and patterns), these pieces probably aren't going to get you through Spring/Summer 2012 all by their lonesome. But augmenting these very gorgeous pieces with cheap & cheerful trends is easy.
So....what would I recommend? Here are three Eileen Fisher pieces that I think would be fabulous, classic investment pieces for moms with a softer figure...but styled in a young, hip-mom kinda way (I hope):
Eileen Fisher U-Neck Shell with Tapered Hem in Viscose Jersey, $88
Don't be underwhelmed by the thought of a simple tank. The right one can make an outfit. In fact, one great tank can make many, many outfits. This one is silky, but can be machine washed in cold. I love the drape and the shape: it's forgiving through the middle, but tapered on the hips so the overall effect is slouchy and sexy...not boxy. Perfect for a curvier mom who still has some softness in the belly. Many of you busty moms have mentioned modest necklines. This one is low enough to flatter 'the girls' but high enough to keep you comfortable. This tank is also available in petite, for tinier moms.
(photo credits: Eileen Fisher, Modcloth scarf, Madewell denim, Nine West sandals)
Eileen Fisher Tangled Linen Cardigan, $218
The oval shape of this cardigan flatters all figures, including hourglass ones. The hem of this cardigan follows the natural shape of the body - it goes in at the waist, and drapes nicely past the hips. You can literally throw this cardigan on over anything - over jeans now, and a little dress come summer. But I liked the super-casual direction that the stylists at Eileen Fisher took...I just made the look a bit more trendy:
(photo credits: Eileen Fisher, Three Dots tee at Shopbop, J.Crew Pepper pant and a bright canvas Sperry)
Eileen Fisher Drape-Neck Top in Polished Linen Rib, $258
You know the over-sized, drapy, dolman silhouette that's been around for the last few seasons? The one that is a fabulous pooch-hider, but totally hides the waist (to the chagrin of hourglass shapes)? I think this sweater is the curvy-girl's answer. The linen is thin and sheer, the low cowl flatters a full bust, but the sweater itself drapes in all of the right places. And for gals who can't go without their basic black (even in summer), this very lightweight sweater might be your answer.
(photo credits: Eileen Fisher, Three Dots tee at Shopbop, Big Star denim shorts at Piperlime, Lands' End tote, Nine West sandals)
Don't forget about the dresses! Personally, I'm crazy about this one:
(photo credit: Eileen Fisher Drape Front Dress)
And you can see more of their dresses in action in this video.
Leslie, I hope this helps!! Obviously, chose the items that you are loving, but I think you'll be happy with how much use you can get out of a truly flattering, high-quality basic.
In addition to Eileen Fisher, a few other brands that cater to a wider range of body types are Talbots (they re-invented themselves recently...and it's pretty good), Shabby Apple (they do amazing dresses, skirts, and awesome swimwear for all body types)...as well as Modcloth. Modcloth is a great place for vintage-inspired items, but they won't have the upscale fabric that you'll find at Eileen Fisher.
Mamas, what say you? Are you liking Eileen Fisher's stuff more than you thought you would...or would you still give it a pass? Any other advice for Leslie?
xo,
S
ps. I've also heard great things (from Lucky Mag, actually!) about Eileen Fisher's basic white tee...but it looks to me like it still wouldn't flatter a curvy mama. Has anyone tried these? Thoughts?
