7 Plus-Size Fashion Month Outfits To Inspire Your Spring Look

For those of us who work in fashion, fashion month is our Super Bowl (even when the actual Super Bowl happens at the same time as New York Fashion Week). A big work conference/industry reunion/party, whether in Copenhagen or Paris, it’s the time to see and be seen. So the looks for fashion week are important, to say the least. For many of my straight-size colleagues, the biggest issue is choice: With ample availability of samples to loan and brand gifting in their size, I’ve had friends tell me they have trouble narrowing down their options. But as a woman who wears a size 18/20, my issue is just the opposite, with few fashion-forward plus-size looks readily available for the biannual event.

A lot of samples are available in, well, sample sizes only. In many cases, there’s also no gifting for me, as many brands that show at NYFW stop at a size 10/12. And given the lack of brick-and-mortar shopping options for extended sizing, I can’t just pop into any store to shop last minute either. It takes a lot of planning (almost everything I wore had to be ordered online in advance) and creativity to wrangle a full week of spring looks that feel true to my style and elevated enough for the occasion.

While the level of organizing it takes for plus-size fashion week attendees to piece together cool, stylish looks cannot be understated, the joy of showing up and showing out as someone in a body type that was traditionally excluded is an incredibly rewarding feeling. Ahead, seven plus-size fashion week looks. Even if you’re not attending fashion shows for a living, let this guide inspire your next spring outfit.

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Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Date Night

As someone who has been going to New York Fashion Week for over a decade, I can confirm that the start date begins earlier every season. Though the first official day of NYFW wasn’t until Friday, I started going to fashion shows on Wednesday, so this was my unofficial kickoff look.

For Adore Me’s lingerie show, I decided to lean into the boudoir vibe with a lacy cutout dress. To keep it from being overly literal, I layered it under a sheer rose-hued mesh top from NYC designer Tamara Malas (one of my few successful clothing loans of the season). I amped up the warmth of the color palette with a rich orange bag, red patent boots with a sculptural heel, and a lush purple faux fur from the depths of my closet. This look was an absolute compliment magnet, with strangers stopping me on the street to tell me how much they loved my outfit.

Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Work Event

For the IMG kick-off event of New York Fashion Week — “Fashioning a More Size Inclusive NYFW” panel, co-created by elle.com beauty director Danielle James and myself — I had to bring a look. I was going to be on stage, after all, and alongside plus-fashion industry changemakers like supermodel Ashley Graham, stylist and editor Gabriella Kareefa-Johnson, and director of IMG Models Mina White. Needless to say, the self-imposed sartorial pressure was on! 

I ended up taking color palette inspiration from this blue tweed slingback. The multi-tonal blue got me thinking about mixing denim, and I combined a sleek dark denim corset top and straight-leg jean set from Warp + Weft with an oversized light wash denim trench coat from up-and-coming plus size designer Jordie McFarquhar’s label, On 24th by Jordie. I loved being able to highlight the design of a young plus-size designer at the panel, and I also just loved the design itself: The thoughtful details — like oversized grommets, the sharp slits to the waist, and a raw-edged pleated hem — set this apart from some of the more simple denim trenches on the market. I completed the look with my small Telfar in metallic cobalt blue.

Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Casual Look

I decided to go for a more low-key look for the official Day 1 of NYFW, which kicked off with the excellent New York Men’s Day shows. I started with a reconstructed ribbed tank from Brooklyn designer Sam Finger (who had one of my favorite size-diverse presentations of Fashion Week last season). I added a pair of wide-leg satin cargo pants. The fit on these is excellent, though a smidge too long for my 5’4” frame. I solved that by adding my beloved platform sneakers, which also added a bit of athleisure flavor to the outfit.

I’d originally planned to wear a full-length pink-to-purple ombre faux fur with this look, but the unseasonably warm February weather had other plans. I ended up going with a deep red faux leather trench from actress Ashley Park’s Rent the Runway collaboration instead, and finished the look with a vibrant purple leather Celine bag from NYC’s Designer Revival.

Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Coquette Fashion 

I love taking inspiration from the shows I’m attending for outfit ideas, and the playful, absurdist aesthetic of designer Olivia Cheng’s Dauphinette was in mind while styling my look for another busy day at Fashion Week. A baby pink patent Mary Jane heel was the catalyst — it instantly evoked the surprisingly durable doll-fashion trend that continues to be a presence. And the moment I saw this puppy print dress from size-inclusive favorite Selkie, it felt like the perfect thing for a delightfully weird doll fashion moment. 

The puff skirt on this dress is quite mini, so I found a pair of lavender opaque tights for a little added coverage. With frilly white socks and a mini baguette bag, the look was complete (and thank goodness this was another uncharacteristically warm day because I could not figure out a single coat to wear with this voluminous dress!).

Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Red All Over

Fashion week is the perfect time to go for it when it comes to looks that might be a little more daring, and nothing fits the bill more than the no-pants trend. This isn’t the first time I’ve worn this controversial fad, but it was certainly the most impactful, thanks to the head-to-toe — and on-trend — red color palette. 

When I saw this boxy red satin blazer from Baacal designer Cynthia Vincent, I knew this had to be my no-pants moment this season. I initially wanted to wear it with an embellished pair of tap pants a la Miu Miu’s wave-making $5600 beaded panties. But while there were plenty of mass-market options for straight sizes, I couldn’t find a single pair that was even remotely similar in plus. So I used a Chromat swimsuit for bottom coverage instead, and kept the blazer buttoned up all day. With a sheer red top underneath and red-framed eyeglasses, the only missing piece was the perfect pair of red tights. It’s hard to find a sheer-to-waist version (aka no control top), but, once I got this pair following a reader recommendation, I did a little happy dance because I was able to make my outfit vision a reality. 

Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Comfortable Neutrals

This look was all about the fringed faux leather jacket featuring two horse heads. This has been on my wishlist for years, so when it finally came back in stock last year, I snapped it up immediately. 

For NYFW, I paired it with a slinky jersey set from from plus-owned label Gia IRL. The lived experience of model founder Gia Sinatra is evident in the impeccable fit of this seamed flowy maxi skirt. Whereas most jersey skirts in this style tend to cling to bellies and flare weirdly below thick thighs, this one just skims and flows beautifully. I also love that it is available in sizes up to 30. I finished the look with white croc-embossed combat boots, white cat-eye shades, and a Tom Ford-era YSL bag to pull out the neutral tones of the skirt set.

Spring Plus-Size Outfit Inspo: Floral Appliqués & Jeans

For my last day of shows, I wanted to go for a romantic look from one of my favorite designers Samantha Pleet. This 3D rose-embellished bodysuit could have made for an excellent no-pants look, but it seemed like NYC finally remembered it was February because the morning started with a blizzard. Tights were not going to cut it in those conditions. In the end, I decided to go for a hard-meets-soft look. I loved the contrast of the delicate silk satin rose bag and rosette hair bow with slouchy low-slung jeans and combat boots. I topped it all off with a chunky vintage leather jacket (one of my prize thrifting finds: I got it for $20 at Philly AIDS Thrift!). 

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The Shoe Trends To Put Your Best Foot Forward In 2024

If you’re adopting a literal approach to the notion of kicking the new year off in style, doing so from the bottom up is a logical place to start. A fresh pair of shoes can go the extra mile for an outfit, be that by adding some extra pep to your ensemble or by grounding it in a more neutral foundation. Whichever camp you (and your closet) are finding yourself in for 2024, there are a number of about-to-be-big footwear trends out there that’ll suit your wardrobe needs. But where to begin? 

We scoured the spring/summer 2024 runways. We perused our favorite retailers. We even collected predictions from industry experts to round up the top nine shoe styles you should expect to see everywhere during the months ahead. Need something sleek for the office? We’ve got you covered on the boot front. Itching for a touch of drama? We’ve outlined the major toe-bearing trends that are about to take over come summer… and they’re not without controversy. If you’re just looking for some shopping inspo, there’s plenty of that, too, in the form of leg-hugging silhouettes, the comeback of kitten heels, and more. Scroll on and make this the year of staying ahead of the sartorial game.

Shoe Trend 2024: Micro Heels

In the same way 2017 ushered in the era of the micro purse, 2024 will bring with it the micro heel. Signs that the ubiquitous platform shoe may be past its peak came in the form of mini heels on major runways including those of Gucci, Givenchy, and Brunello Cucinelli. This ultra-low look is sneaking its way onto slingbacks, mules, boots, and more, meaning the barely-there pump will be here to stay until next December. “The kitten heel gives a lift and a great posture, but they’re still comfortable and practical shoes for the woman on the move,” says Marina Larroudé who founded an eponymous luxury shoe label. 

Shoe Trend 2024: Mesh Materials

What began as the go-to material for tops and dresses throughout last year’s Y2K party attire will be migrating south in 2024 and losing a bit of its shine along the way. Mesh is taking on footwear in the form of silkier, lightweight materials, dramatic overlays, and subtle shoe details. Most notable were the mesh socks we spotted everywhere from Chanel to Sacai and statement boots made out of the breathable fabric on runways of GmbH and Mugler. And then there was Givenchy taking the trend to the next level by layering mesh over some of its shoes, rather than underneath them. 

Shoe Trend 2024: Skin-Tight Boots

Whether you’re a below-the-knee kind of boot wearer or you prefer something thigh-high, opt for a fit that hugs the leg. Marni led the charge with skin-tight styles in a range of colorways from blue to orange to white, while Ferragamo kept it simple with its sleek black iteration of the trend. Versace also favored lean silhouettes with the added bonus of the increasingly popular peep-toe (more on that below), and we even spotted a snug style at Alaïa with slits running along the body of the boot. Pro tip: A stretchy, water-resistant knit fabric is an easy and practical way to replicate this look IRL. 

Shoe Trend 2024: Slouchy Silhouettes 

If the skin-tight fit isn’t for you, there are alternative boot styles gaining popularity in equal stride. Paired with mini dresses and pantless looks at Victoria Beckham were slouchy black boots fit for the British countryside the designer famously frequents. Proenza Schouler achieved a similar aesthetic with ankle boots, while Alexander McQueen went for a heeled, above-the-knee version.

Shoe Trend 2024: Thong Sandals

Consider the flip-flop debate settled… at least for the duration of 2024. The Row was ahead of the curve on this trend in 2023, and now, according to Shopbop fashion director Caroline Maguire, thong sandals will be THE shoe of summer — a prediction supported by the high-fashion flip-flops on display at Chanel, Burberry, and Coperni. “Whether you’re opting for something flat and simple or going for a more embellished and strappy silhouette, thong sandals will be an easy go-to for everyone next year,” Maguire shares.

Shoe Trend 2024: Bright Whites

We’ve already identified white as the couleur du jour as told by Valentino in our latest list of 2024 fashion trends, and footwear is no exception. Eye-catching designs by Chloé, Bottega Venetta, and Prada prove that everything from pointy-toed pumps to chunky loafers and mules will be slathered in the shade. And while the stark hue certainly makes a statement when polishing off a fashion-forward ‘fit, commuters might want to sit this one out.

Shoe Trend 2024: Snake Print

Pulling off anything with an animal print requires a certain degree of fashion ferocity, especially when that print borrows from a snake. But designers are making it look easy with understated styles that will function more like a neutral in the new year. At Khaite, sharp heels with python appeal were sent down the runway behind bowler bags featuring the same pattern. At Fendi, there were embossed reptilian boots in shades of brown and dark green while a bolder iteration of the print appeared on loafers, boots, outerwear, and accessories at Jil Sander.

Shoe Trend 2024: Tassels & Ties

Straps may be noticeably absent from dresses across the SS24 collections in favor of strapless silhouettes, but that doesn’t mean they’re gone entirely. Flats, Mary Janes, and clogs were fastened at the ankle with all sorts of ties and tassel details at Collina Strada, Molly Goddard, and Isabel Marant, while Miu Miu added anklets to match its braided leather sandals. Also worth mentioning is the adorable assortment of shoe styles tied up in bows at Chloé and Altuzarra.

Shoe Trend 2024: Peep Toes

For the perfect transitional footwear purchase to navigate 2024’s changing seasons, this trend has got you covered (almost). There were various levels of toe teasing across the SS24 collections, with Alaïa, Mugler, and Schiaparelli putting out pumps that offered no more than a peek. Meanwhile, Louis Vuitton exposed just the hallux (beneath sheer tights). Regardless how much toe you decide to show, this look isn’t limited to heels. We’re already spotting it mixed with other major trends including a pair of standout skin-tight boots on the Victoria Beckham runway, as well as platform shoes and ballet flats. 

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Model Iskra Lawrence Talks Body Positivity & Her New Cupshe Collab

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If you somehow don’t already know English swimsuit model Iskra Lawrence (back in college, I learned about her from her unretouched Aerie campaign), you likely know her TikTok-viral body-care line Saltair. She’s made a name for herself in the industry and has become a vocal body positivity advocate. And Lawrence’s latest inclusive-friendly project is her Cupshe swimwear collaboration.

Refinery29 got to speak to the model ahead of her collab launch on February 16 and got the scoop on why a Cupshe X Iskra collection just made sense and talked Lawrence’s words of wisdom on body positivity and her favorite Cupshe pieces. Read on to learn more about the affordable swimwear collection (each piece comes in under $46) and to shop it while supplies last.

The Inspiration Behind Cupshe x Iskra Lawrence

Cupshe is best known for its affordable swimwear, cover-ups, and resort wear that is mostly available in sizes XS through 4XL. And this is why Lawrence jumped on a Cupshe swimwear collab for both her and her followers. “I had a DM from a girl literally two weeks ago who was like, ‘I’m trying to find an affordable swimsuit, and I really just want to find it through you because we’re the same body size,'” Lawrence told us.

Most of the Cupshe x Iskra collection is available in XS through XL (with Iskra modeling all of it in a size XL), but some pieces, like the ruffled one-piece above, are available up to 4XL. It also features a wide array of bikinis, cover-ups, and dresses. Lawrence shared that it was so exciting to pick pieces and prints that she felt catered to many of her followers and that many women worldwide would want to wear.

Cupshe is really high quality and the fit is amazing for the price…and I know that because I’ve worn thousands of swimsuits.

Iskra Lawrence

Body Positivity & Iskra’s Unretouched Campaign Images

Lawrence is a staunch backer of using unretouched images for her campaigns, and it’s no different with this swimwear collaboration. “I don’t want to work with brands that are really afraid of unretouching,” she said. “The most important thing is that we make everyone feel comfortable, and showing real images of real women in suits is just a no-brainer to me.”

All of Lawrence’s stunning Cupshe collab photos feature the raw and real model confidently showing off her figure and her bold swimwear. “Every time that we get to put out images that aren’t retouched, it just cracks away at that perfectionism and that unrealistic beauty image, and that’s so important,” Lawrence told us. And we’re a little bit very obsessed with her body positive stance.

I’m embracing all my lumps and bumps and scars and cellulite and stretch marks and all of these things because they’re just part of your body. 

Iskra Lawrence

Iskra’s Top 3 Cupshe Collab Pieces

During our interview, Lawrence held up her black Cupshe one-shoulder one-piece and said it was her favorite piece from the collection. The high-quality, curve-hugging material makes her feel like she’s wearing a $250 swimsuit. “Again, I’ve tried thousands of one piece swimsuits, and this is the first one that I could literally do a cartwheel in and not have to pull it up or worry about anything falling out,” she said.

Her other top-tier swimsuit (which is also my personal favorite) is the orange underwire and high-rise bikini set (which allows shoppers to mix and match top and bottom sizes to perfectly fit their proportions). Lawrence said she hopes this bikini pushes people out of their style and color comfort zones. “I just love a perfect orange, it’s just so joyful,” she added.

Lastly, Lawrence spoke on her fondness of the many dresses and cover-ups in her collection. She loves the chartreuse maxi dress. “It’s long and flowy, and I just feel like a Grecian goddess in it.” Lawrence also spoke on the affordable price point, which she thinks shoppers will find to be a great value and make them happy to wear it over and over again.

I hope it encourages people to wear the bold, bright color. Don’t be afraid. Wear the two-piece!

Iskra Lawrence

Shop the full Cupshe x Iskra collaboration

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7 Trends From London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 To Try Now

Picking up where New York Fashion Week left off, the London Fashion Week fall/winter 2024 shows came and conquered Britain’s capital this past weekend. As expected, attendees showed us how street style fashion is done, giving us plenty of outfit inspiration for transitional dressing. As for what went down on the runways, we noticed several style trends that are sure to take us through to spring, and last long into this coming fall, too. 

Patchwork denim, sheer skirts and hooded garments marked a cross-seasonal theme, while designers’ attention to detail — in the form of embroidery and ribbon accents — added lots of intentionality and a 2024 take on quiet luxury. While NYFW’s fall/winter shows prioritized boldness, London’s runways were all about staple looks with modern twists. Below, find seven of the biggest trends from London Fashion Week fall/winter 2024. 

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: Patchwork Denim

If Beyoncé’s and Lana Del Rey’s recent forays into country music (and its accompanying aesthetics) are anything to go by, we can expect Western fashion to continue thriving come fall. With denim trends also still surging, the fall/winter 2024 shows have introduced a new addition: patchwork denim. Ahluwalia displayed multiple pieces made from reworked Levi’s denim, including a head-to-toe look with a patchwork top, maxi skirt, and even denim boots. Elsewhere, KGL debuted clever patchwork co-ords and SRVC showed dark-wash patchwork jeans. 

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: Hoods

New York Fashion Week brought us capes for fall/winter 2024, so it’s only fitting that London Fashion Week extended this superhero theme with hoods galore. Ever since Saint Laurent further popularized the hooded dress trend a couple seasons back, the trend once reserved for activewear has been spotted on various red carpets — and now, on this season’s runways. We spotted knitted hoods by the likes of Chet Lo and Burberry, athletic styles from Johanna Parv, and sheer hoods from Frolov.

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: Wide Headbands

Blair Waldorf-esque headbands have recently been making a comeback thanks to a combination of Y2K and athleisure trends. For fall/winter 2024, the wide elastic style was a particularly popular accessory choice. A perfect option for days when you can’t be fussed to do your hair, the humble headband has officially gotten high fashion approval. Brands like Conner Ives accessorized with the simple black style, while Erdem opted for more delicate netted headbands. 

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: Ribbon and Strap Detailing

A cousin, perhaps, to the current bow trend, straps of all kinds showed up on several fall 2024 runways. From SRVC’s skirts and jackets embellished with long belt straps to Di Petsa’s trailing corset and accessory ribbons, several designers let their strings hang loose this season. Other brands to use ribbon details included Mark Fast, while straps spruced up dresses at KNWLS and puffers at Holzweiler.

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: Sheer Embroidered Skirts

This year has already ushered in the appliqué trend and the no-pants look, both of which lent themselves to the sheer embroidered skirts and dresses that were all over London Fashion Week’s fall/winter 2024 shows. Notable mentions include Eudon Choi’s intricately spotted skirts, Simone Rocha’s floral embroidery and Marques’Almeida’s foil appliqués. 

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: The Wrinkled Look

When Quinta Brunson wore a crushed satin Dior dress to the 2024 Emmy Awards, the internet was aghast at the actor’s wrinkled appearance — but according to London Fashion Week fall/winter 2024, the unironed look is one we’re going to see a lot more of this year. From Erdem’s textured gowns to brands like Di Petsa, Ahluwalia and Colville debuting similarly wrinkled looks, this might be the year to embrace the (tastefully) rumpled effect.

London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024 Trend: Drop Waists

The drop waist was another prominent y2k trend for fall/winter 2024, from Marques’Almeida’s regal gowns that featured low puffball skirts to Susan Fang’s brightly-colored drop-waist dresses and midi skirts. Much like the (often controversial) low-rise trend, drop waists can provide that same retro look without having to reveal any skin.

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