Plus-size Fashion for Larger Ladies
Beth Ditto for Evans Launches a Collection for Hip Young Women
Aug 16, 2009
Plus-sized hip young women have been flocking to buy Beth Ditto's new 22-piece capsule collection, and UK high street chain Evans has never been so cool.
Launched on July 9th 2009 the range consists of some seriously on-trend pieces (in UK sizes 14-32) and is a unique departure for Evans which in the past was hardly the label to attract fashion-conscious young women.
Plus-sized ladies at last have the chance to buy into a chic celebrity-designed collection. Evans understands that shapes and cuts for larger ladies have to be different (rather than simply larger versions of runway-inspired designs, showcased on the catwalks by waif-like models.) Dresses are cleverly cut, tops skim rather than cling, and leggings have higher waistbands that fall just below the chest.
The Beth Ditto for Evans Collection
The American punk goddess (lead singer of the punk band, Gossip) collaborated with Lisa Marie Peacock, Evans' head of design, to create the first capsule collection. The pair examined Ditto’s sketches and her own collection of vintage and charity-shop clothes for inspiration.
It is a vintage-inspired, funky collection for plus-sized fashionistas, which include some very eye-catching prints. Two of the most stunning are the stained glass prom dress, and a monochrome domino print dress (with matching leggings) made of double fabric. A bustier-style black prom dress with detachable straps offers a chicer alternative and a face sweaterdress ticks all the current ‘80s trend boxes.
A slouchy spider’s web batwing-sleeve jumper and cropped leather jacket pay homage to a rock ‘n roll vibe. There is also a nod to the 80s disco-diva with a purple sequined top, to be worn over leggings or as a mini dress. For those old enough to remember, a Debby Harry-inspired (Blondie) blue harem-panted jumpsuit will also rock those curves.
The collection offers some funky accessories too, including a black and white lip bag which pays lip service to the iconic designs of Lulu Guinness, an oversized beaded belt and jazz-inspired two-tone brogues.
All outfits were tried and tested on models of size 16 and 22, in addition to Ditto herself.
Plus-sized Women Can Wear Leggings Too
For those who are familiar with Ms Ditto’s wardrobe, loud lycra leggings are one of her fashion staples. Her enthusiasm for such fashion furniture shines through in her new collection, with high-waisted leggings that have reinforced waist panels to ensure a good fit and to avoid the dreaded “muffin top.”
Beth Ditto Style Icon
On the face of it Beth Ditto, supersized lead singer/songwriter for Gossip, is an unlikely style icon. At a curvy size 28, the pocket dynamo's body shape is more reminiscent of a Beryl Cook painting. Confident in her own skin though, this is a lady who doesn't "do" diets, and has her own inimitable sense of style.
It is rumoured that the singer’s friend Kate Moss initially hooked her up with Phillip Green (owner of both the Evans and Top Shop label.) With friends like Kate Moss and Stella McCartney, the singer has hankered after her own clothing line for years, and often made her own costumes for her performances with punk band Gossip.
The Plus-Size Fashion Market
Evans' collection for hip young women may put them firmly on the fashion map. The high street chain is working hard to change the perception of plus-size fashion and their Beth Ditto for Evans label is the first step in a very neglected plus-size market. There is already speculation of a forthcoming Beth Ditto for Evans underwear collection and swimwear range.
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