#affordable plus size clothing online

[bluefuecoco]

the urge to buy every pokemon plush that build-a-bear releases....

[mavshack1205]

The Ultimate Guide to Dressing for Your Body Shape

Fashion trends are ever evolving and meeting all the fashion standards is a vicious cycle. Even if you have the latest collection in your wardrobe, it does not guarantee a flattering look. This is primarily because the products are marketed as universal, however, the appearance of a piece of clothing is highly determined by your body shape. Thus, when shopping from a top online shopping site for women's clothing in India, be mindful of the cuts of the clothing, to make sure you dress to slay. Read along the blog to know more about the various ways to dress according to your body shape.

What to Wear According to Your Body Shape

Apple Body Shape (Oval Shape)

The apple body is characterized by a heavier upper body in comparison to your lower part. The shape features broad shoulders and a bigger bust line, gathering weight around the midriff. Now, as most of the weight gathers above the hips, the mid-riff appears heavier than the remaining body with a minimal waistline. Thus, wearing dresses with V, deep V, plunge V, and sweetheart necklines creates the illusion of an elongated torso. Use accessories to draw attention close to the face or legs.

A-line or empire cuts are ideal for apple body shape. Wear printed dresses or patterned jackets that add a layer to shift the focus. Monochrome looks, dark colors, full or 3/4th sleeve dresses, and flowy tops will also help. For the bottoms choose flared options such as palazzos, to create a balance. Also, go for bottoms with higher waistlines as this will give a more balanced and elongated look. Make sure that the pieces sit well on the right curves, so go for a bit of tailoring if required.  The hourglass shape is good and can rock any look, but wearing a loose and oversized look would not be the right choice, as they will conceal the most desired curves.  

Pear Body Shape (Triangle Shape)

The shape is distinguished by a well-defined lower body, with the butt and thighs visually bigger than the upper body. People with this body shape have comparatively narrower shoulders. The best part of this body type is that the right styling can help you create the illusion of an hourglass figure. You can also try body shaper for women, to get the hourglass figure with much ease.

Wide-legged pants, A-line skirts, or dresses with patterned or ruffled tops are great for creating a balanced look. The wide pants would draw attention away from the wide lower body and the ruffled tops would add up to the width of the upper body.  Skinny jeans with loose tops help create an hourglass illusion. Crop tops, sweetheart, V or deep-V, padded jackets and tops, and scoop, or boat necks will balance the bottom. Avoid skin-fitting tops, halter necklines, and loose bottoms as these would accentuate the pear shape.

Banana Body Shape (Rectangle Shape)

The rectangle-shaped body is usually well-balanced from the shoulders to the hips.  The arms and legs are the assets for the people with rectangle-shaped bodies. The body is like the hourglass figure minus the defined waistline. So, the dressing is all the more similar for both body shapes.

The best pieces of clothing for body shape include A-line skirts and ruffled and layered tops. The ideal cuts include sleeveless, strapless, and sweetheart lines. Blazers, long jackets, and capes can be used to add much-needed drama to the overall look. However, avoid wearing overarching dresses, as they would look very consuming and might not look great.  

Inverted Triangle Body Shape

People with this body shape have an athletic-looking body with shoulders much broader than the hips. Thus, the key to dressing for this style is the enhancement of the arms and shoulders as much as possible. Also, wear clothes that add definition to your hips, giving you a more balanced look.

Straight-cut jeans and dresses naturally have an inverted V-look and thus would be the best for your body type. You can also add volume to your lower body using voluminous fabrics, light colors, details, and prints. You can also try pencil-cut skirts, skinny jeans, and other pieces of the kind to rock the look. Always avoid much layering to the upper body. V-neck lines work well and create an illusion of narrow shoulders, so these can be used to gain a more proportionate look.

Visit Trendy Online Shopping Sites in India Now

So, now that you know how to dress for your body shape, visit an affordable online shopping site in India, and restock your wardrobe. Mavshack liveshopping is one such lowest-price online shopping site in India. It offers women's fashion, men's fashion, and kids' essentials. It is also the best online shopping site in India for accessories. You can also shop for body shapers for women, to look your best in ethnic wear. The platform offers the best shapewear for plus size as well.  It offers durable products at attractive discounts. So, do not wait and visit Mavshack liveshopping now.

[myattractionwear]

My Attraction Wear

Website: https://www.myattractionwear.com

Address: New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles

My Attraction Wear is an online store specializing in fashionable and affordable clothing designed to infuse life with joy, love, and prosperity. Each piece features universal symbols of positive energy, aiming to bring transformation and empowerment to its wearers. The brand is committed to quality, sustainability, and exceptional customer service, making it a trusted name in the industry. Additionally, a portion of each sale is donated to charities, reflecting the brand's dedication to making dreams happen.

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[smartxarticle]

My Attraction Wear

Website: https://www.myattractionwear.com

Address: New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles

My Attraction Wear is an online store specializing in fashionable and affordable clothing designed to infuse life with joy, love, and prosperity. Each piece features universal symbols of positive energy, aiming to bring transformation and empowerment to its wearers. The brand is committed to quality, sustainability, and exceptional customer service, making it a trusted name in the industry. Additionally, a portion of each sale is donated to charities, reflecting the brand's dedication to making dreams happen.

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[bisousfashion]

Find the Perfect Summer Outfit at Our Online Fashion Store: Cute Dresses and Fashionable Tops for Women

At Bisous Bisous Fashion, we offer an enticing array of cute summer dresses and fashionable tops for women, providing you with a one-stop online fashion store experience. Get ready to embrace the season in style as we guide you through our delightful collection.

[thebigcostore]

Men Clothing Online

Welcome to The Big Co., your go-to store for premium plus-size men clothing online. We offer a wide range of products, including shirts, plain t-shirts, round neck t-shirts, polo collar t-shirts, tie-dye t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies. Our clothing is designed to fit and flatter every body type.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA For buying plus sized clothing at a store that doesn’t carry it often.

👗👚

I (17 He/Him) am disabled. I have Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome. I have constant pain in my joints and muscles, as well as Allodynia (Small touches causing un rational amounts of pain), fatigue, and headaches. I also am trans masc.

It should be noted that I am skinny, and if it might matter, white.

Clothes are an issue for me. I have difficulty shopping online before I need to be able to feel the textures to know if I will be able to handle them.

Because of this, I buy my clothes from thrift stores, and only occasionally purchase from large chains.

I frequently buy clothes obviously meant for fat people. They not only help me with my gender dysphoria, but also they do not physically hurt.

I also buy these clothes from stores that do bot often carry them.

Recently I was talking to one of my plus sized friends online and they mentioned how they hate when skinny people buy up all affordable clothes meant for fat people. She carved out an exception for me, but I am not sure if she just didn’t want to hurt my feelings.

I also want noted that I am definitely not fatphobic, or I at least try to be.

What are these acronyms?

[whomstwedointheshadows]

I am howling at the sky for the look tonight that Harvey Guillén staked to death, spat on, and made it beg on the red carpet. Instead of just ranting to my queer fashion/fandom retail friends again, I took our collective slobber and tears to outline my plea to the fashion gods.

Why doesn’t this man have a ‘mens’wear line in every American mall? There is a gap in the market for adventurous, queer friendly suiting available through a retailer like Macys/J C Penney. Yes, retail is dying and wedding industry more so, but that’s particular to what’s available for consumers as well. Suiting is turned from off the rack into iconic by proper tailoring, but let me tell you from working all sides of the bridal salon, even up-scale clothing lines are getting rude as hell about quality and assembly to prevent tailoring and longevity.

This kid’s Disney charm would be perfect for introducing a plus size, inclusive line of fashion-forward pieces which include, say a QR code video about taking your own measurements, how adjustments work, with pieces designed to be sleek, with enough allowance for tailoring, and minding the lines in the garment to make the adjustments for plus size bodies easier. It’s no more adjustments than are made on straight size bodies, it’s just straight size bodies have more options to find a line which works with their natural shape.

But in my experience, it’s gender non-conforming folks and plus sized folks who get pushed out of finding pieces they can actually use for celebrations or work, much less pieces with actual personality that spark joy. This man has been killing it for years, really getting some clutch looks for events and invites in the fashion world. He’s showing proof of concept every time he steps in front of a camera.

Watching Harvey’s fashion evolution, I trust his fashion team and judgement to create a mid/high line for workwear to events suiting embracing a gender nonconforming audience. I can’t think of anyone better situated to become the ambassador of a brand with *the* formal wear for queer events and special occasions. I was tickled to see he sells his own merch and hope this experience convinces him of the joy working with artists and connecting their visions to a wanting public, dipping toes into the new ethical, sustainable trends in fashion. His looks alone shows he’s done his homework over the years about timelessness and early adopting trends.

For the years I worked selling/tailoring wedding dresses, there was the prophetic ‘someday… along will come the man who revives men’s fashion for events again’ to save the David’s bridal/men’s wear house lines who keep dropping plus sizes like mine and dying off. As the pet butch in the bridal salon I pleaded to the sky for better suiting options. Add that to my butch lezzy ways and trans masc circle of friends I legit spent this past Friday night drunk in a bar with a seam ripper adjusting jackets and darting pants in an unplanned sewing circle for a bachelorette until it was my round of karaoke. This isn’t the first time I’ve spontaneously started tailoring for the queers, I can’t keep up with the demand! Y’all we are in our twenties to mid thirties there should be better options than this that don’t require a vacation to LA/NY!!

I have ethical, sustainable fashion preferences about slipping in a retailer versus an online brand. But for the vision of accessible clothing to the masses pushing the envelope of the kind of quality only vintage pieces are affording the general public, this is the only celebrity really posed with the image, high energy, and bona fides to be the face of it. His connections in the fashion game are only growing as WWDITS wraps up.

If this man opened a pop-up suiting/fashion shop I’d take my limited time and resources to really dig in to the designers he promoted. I’d be howling in the streets for my celebrants to go get a Gullién. There’s no shortage online pattern makers, but there is a shortage of queer friendly shops to really get pieces that pop and it feels safe to enjoy in a retail environment. For average people wanting to engage with fashion that affirms their identity on their special day, there’s too much fucking compromise. Honestly it’s nice that I have a side hustle sewing to pattern, but I’d give it up in a fucking heartbeat for there to be actually sustainable and approachable options. I wish there was an in between of being ‘affordable’ gnc suiting in an American mall but add plus size availability and it gets sad for your most thrifty, creative friends. Someone needs the step in the gap, and why not someone at the top of the game?

Even if it was just a pop up line every few years, I’d fucking salivate over every image in that catalogue two thousand miles away for what it can teach home sewists just by virtue of curating those artisans with the express goal of queer, fat friendly designs playing together. Just the existence of vintage shops like Proud Mary creates a boom across the inter-webs of new sewists per post. Could anyone really imagine if there were actually accessible stores in key cities/supported by an online catalog with a personable, rising star as the brand face?

Please feed us more fashion, Harvey. Keep those stylists and designer friends close. Please. I cannot stress how many mascs/nb-bebes keep dropping your name every fitting consultation across this nation and it’s for good reason.

[jessicaloons]

Chapter 23.1:

Freedom felt like summer then, on the coast…

Masterlist - Previous - Part 2

I looked over my bed, thinking about the next almost 3 weeks and if I had thought of everything, when there was a little knock on the door.

"Here, put the dresses in this clothing bag, they won’t crinkle in there." Mum walked in, handing me a clothing bag.

"Thanks Mum. I really hope that it’s enough? I know that we’ll be the first week together in Corse? Then a little party in Ibiza? But then? No idea, he’s not telling me anything? Is that enough? Do I need more outfits?" I looked at her and she smiled.

"I think you have enough… I mean, 10 dresses alone? I think that should be fine?" she said and I nodded.

"Yeah probably… umm Mum, can I talk to you and Dad? It’s… umm it’s important?" I asked her.

"Sure? Now? Okay, I’ll tell Dad, see you downstairs?"

"Yeah, I’ll be down in a minute…" I gathered myself, taking a deep breath. This is what I want. It’s normal. It’s okay. Let’s do this!

I sat down at the table and Mum and Dad both looked at me.

"What’s up?" Dad asked casually as he sipped on his water and I swallowed hard.

"I umm… I was thinking that- umm…" I began nervously before I shut my mouth again and grabbed the water carafe and poured something in an empty glass, nervously gulping down half of it.

"Lizzie darling, what’s going on?" Mum asked and looked concerned.

I put the glass down, taking a deep breath and started over again.

"Mum, Dad, I thought about this for a long time… I want to… I want to move out. And I don’t want to move just somewhere… I want to move to, well I want to move to Monaco. Or close to Monaco, because I don’t think that I can afford a flat there, not even the size of a shoebox… but it’s just… Shima has to move to Nice due to her new job. JK could be with his girlfriend instead of travelling back and forth between here and Nice. I would be close to Charles, Arthur, Lorenzo, Pascale! And of course it’s beneficial for my lungs…" I said and looked at them.

"And you were nervous why? Lizzie, you’re 24? You don’t have to ask for our permission!" Mum grabbed my hand over the table and squeezed it gently. "And when you live close to Charles and Pascale I’m not even worried."

"We didn’t expect you to live with us forever, you know?" Dad laughed and I sighed.

"Yeah… it’s just. It’s financially a lot to burden. I don’t know what I could afford? I mean, I don’t even know how much money I have? I never cared for it, you and Rita were discussing all the details of my contracts in the past, taking care of my money… now the inheritance from Hans…" I looked at him and Dad got a hold of his phone, tapping away.

"Okay. So breakdown of your financial situation. I’m talking now only of the savings account, consisting out of your price money for winning the WSeries, your basic salary from Audi and your salary from companies your doing commercials for or you’re partnered with… plus the now available inheritance…" he shoved his phone over the table, showing my bank statement and I gulped "I think Monaco is definitely doable."

"Holy shit? I’m rich? How did I never know that?" I kept staring at the very high amount of money and Dad chuckled.

"Because you never cared for it? Since the moment you earned money with racing you only wanted us to transfer a little amount monthly into your account. You didn’t even spent a lot of money for your car? You bought a used one… yeah you lived really frugal!" Dad said and Mum smiled proudly at me.

"Let’s be honest, since the beginning of the year, where Dad increased the amount of money he transferred into your account, how much of it did you really use?" Mum asked and I shrugged my shoulders.

"I mean, I didn’t even know that you increased it? But… not much? During race weeks I don’t need much. When we’re going out, I’m not allowed to pay… Charles is really old school when it comes to that… I only spent money for basic stuff and every once in a while when I go shopping, rather online shopping and for books? Oh yeah and my flights… but that’s it? I didn’t even had to buy my own cars, with Audi gifting them to me." I said and Dad laughed.

"And you’re wondering why there’s so much money in your accounts?"

"I guess it makes sense… but when we talk about money… the karting track, the business accounts etc that’s yours Dad. You put in the whole work. You take care of everything. So it’s just fair when that is your money. No! Dad! Don’t say anything! I’m serious!"

"But as soon as it opens again, and the track makes profit again, 50 % will go straight into your account. That’s what Hans wanted."

"If you insist…" I sighed a little.

"So your first flat… any special wishes?" Mum asked and I nodded a little.

"I want 2 bedrooms, a full bathroom and a guest bathroom, a nice kitchen preferably open to the living room and a balcony. Nothing too big. And yeah… Monaco would be great." I said and they both nodded.

"Talk with a realtor and then let’s see." Dad said and I smiled.

"I think I know the right guy for that…" I said and got up. Finishing packing up. And then Dad drove me to the airport.

"Alright, I see you guys tomorrow!" I hugged him goodbye.

"Yep! And have fun later on… and always smile!" he kissed my cheek and I sighed a little.

"I hate sponsoring events… but I know it’s part of my job…" I waved him goodbye and left.

I smiled for the cameras, talked to some of the guests, took photos here and there and then the little lunch was over, finally. I got in the car that would take me to Monaco and I honestly couldn’t wait. The summer break officially started.

Charles awaited me downstairs, grabbing my suitcases, leading me inside and as soon as the elevator doors were closed he pulled me into him, kissing me passionately.

"I missed you…" he whispered against my lips and I giggled a little.

"Charlie you’ve seen me two days ago!"

"That’s way too long!" he sighed and we entered his flat "I ordered some food, should be here any minute, you can change and then we’ll have a quiet night? Perfect!"

I kissed his cheek and went to the bed room, changing into some sweatpants and a top and then sitting down on the sofa, when I heard Charles talking to someone on the phone. I grabbed my own phone and called the first person that I had in my mind when thinking about buying a flat in Monaco.

"Alright, thanks Riccardo!" I hung up.

"What was that about?" Charles asked and I flinched "Sorry." he kissed my forehead before he sat down, a bag full of take out in his hands.

"I was talking with him about… well he will look for a flat for me…" I said sheepishly and Charles looked at me.

"What? Where? You wanna move out?" he asked and I nodded.

"Here of course?" I laughed and he looked confused "What?"

"You want to move to Monaco?" he said and I nodded "Why would you buy a flat?"

"Umm? To live in it?" I was confused.

"Cara mia, why would you spend millions of euros for a flat here if you could move in with me for free?" he asked and I swallowed.

"Charles… it’s just that…" the look on his face made me stop.

"It’s just that you don’t want to live with me? That’s it…" he said and I shook my head.

"No! Charles it’s not like that! But… hey! Please look at me! I would love to live with you! But Charles, we’re only together for what? 3 months now?" I began and he rolled his eyes "I never lived alone! Not once! I just want to have my own place first… it’s an experience I don’t want to miss out on…"

"Hmm, okay." Charles mumbled and got up.

"Please, don’t be mad!" I pleaded and he looked at me.

"I’m not mad… it’s just… sometimes I feel like… I feel like you don’t trust this… us… or at least not entirely. But yeah, it’s your decision in the end…" he walked away and I sighed. Great. But before I could get up and follow him, he returned with cutlery that was missing, as I just realised now.

"But if you move here, then we need to look for a building with good security! And an underground parking garage! I don’t want fans and whatever other crazy people are out there swarm you when you park your car in the streets and want to get in your house!" he said and began to eat.

"Okay wait… a minute ago you said you have the feeling that I’m not sure about us and now you’re talking about my safety?" I asked confused.

"And? I can have my doubts from time to time and still love you and care about your safety?" he answered and I rolled my eyes. "What?"

"That sucks!" I breathed out and he put his knife and fork down.

"What? That it makes me insecure when you say things like we’re only dating for, we’re only been together for, it’s only a short time that we’re together, and so on? Yeah… that sucks for me too, because I never not once heard you refer to us as a couple in a serious relationship… and that’s okay… but I can be upset about it." he said and I looked at him. Then I began to eat and Charles picked up his cutlery.

"I’m sorry… that I make you feel this way about us…" I said after a while.

"Don’t be… I know you long enough to know that you need time to adjust to this… it’s okay. But like I said, I don’t have to be happy about it, but that doesn’t mean that I’m mad at you or love you less. Because I never could. Never less." he replied and I felt myself blushing for some reason.

"Why did you never say something? That it’s something that bothers you?"

"I don’t know… a part of me said that I shouldn’t care about it, because I know how you feel and I know that what we have is real and strong and serious and… I don’t know, I guess a little part of me was still scared that you might change your mind, with everything that is going on already, and when you said these things… I kinda felt insecure?" he sighed a little and I took his hands.

"I’m sorry… really! I didn’t knew, I always thought that you had so much confidence… in this. In us." I looked at him and he smiled.

"I have, Lizzie! 100%. But yeah a teeny tiny part of me is still scared to lose you… and I think I made a big deal out of nothing."

"No, don’t say that, please. If something like this bothers you? God! Even hurts you? Then please tell me. You and I. This. It’s real. A real and serious relationship." I kissed his cheek and I could swear his cheeks were turning slightly red.

"Thank you." Charles whispered and I just smiled at him.

"Will you tell me now what you have planned for us?" I asked and he chuckled.

"Nope. You gotta wait and see."

Charles POV:

"Why aren’t Benji and Marcus and Lisa here?" Liam asked and I sighed.

"They are invited to a friend’s wedding, so they stay there for a bit."

"But then I’m the only kid… that’s boring." he pouted and I had to laugh.

"Oh come on! Arthur is here as well!" I said.

"I heard that!" Arthur shouted from behind me "We will keep you entertained, don’t worry!"

"See! Arthur to the rescue!" I laughed and Liam nodded.

"Okay. But we do fun stuff for kids as well? Not just for grown ups?" he asked and I rolled my eyes.

"You know that I like fun stuff for kids way more than grown up stuff!"

"Just the grown up stuff with your auntie he loves to do…" Arthur chuckled under his breath and I hit him, while Liam looked at him confused.

"What does that mean?" he asked immediately and I groaned.

"You take care of that!" I whisper shouted to Arthur and got up.

I walked down the stairs to the pool where Lizzie laid on one of the sun beds, basking in the sun. I sat down next to her and heard a soft little snore coming from her and laid down next to her. As if she could feel my presence, she rolled over and snuggled up to my side. I smiled to myself, thinking that this would be my life for the rest of my days. I closed my eyes and relaxed when after a while someone tapped my shoulder and I looked up.

"Hey Bubba." I smiled at him and he rubbed his eyes a little, looking tired. I patted the sun bed next to me "Come here, it’s nap time." he smiled and laid down next to me, doing the same like his aunt, snuggling into my side. He yawned a little and wiggled around "What’s the matter? Not comfy?"

"The sun is too bright." he mumbled and I chuckled a little.

"I’m sorry, but that’s something I can’t change unfortunately."

He sighed and climbed on me, burying his face in the crook of my neck.

"That’s better." he whispered and I laughed.

"As long as you’re comfy!" I put my arm around him to make sure he won’t fall off and closed my eyes again.

I stretched a little when I opened my eyes and looked to my left, Lizzie was gone but Liam still snuggled onto my chest.

"You look so cute, I don’t want to wake him, but Sissy said that he gets grumpy if he sleeps for too long…" Lizzie whispered as she sat down next to me.

"Did you have a good nap?" I asked her and she nodded "Perfect. Now let’s wake up this little munchkin…" I gently rubbed his back, tickled his sides a little and Liam began to wiggle around "Come on Bubba! Wake up!" I cooed and he yawned a little before he slowly sat up, rubbing his eyes.

"Can we go swimming, Charlie?" he asked, voice still sleepy.

"Let’s fully wake up first, have something to drink and maybe a little snack? And then later on we go swimming?"

"Okay." he snuggled back into my chest and I laughed.

"That doesn’t mean we go back to sleep!" I said and Lizzie gently stroked his back.

"Carry me. Too tired." Liam mumbled and I sighed, getting up.

"Okay, my little Bubba. I’ll carry you." I said and walked up the stairs towards the house.

"He has you wrapped around his little finger." Lizzie laughed and we walked inside.

"Something you Doetterer’s are really good at." Arthur chimed in and Lizzie laughed even more.

"Could you stop with your comments?" I groaned and he just shook his head.

"I’m just saying the truth." he shrugged his shoulders and plopped down on the sofa.

"Carla? Could you please make your boyfriend behave?" I said to her and she laughed.

"He’s your brother, if anyone can do it then it’s… oh wait. Yeah, your mum." she said and Lizzie sat down next to her, laughing. I sat Liam down next to her and walked to the kitchen, opening the fridge to grab something to drink.

"There is a fruit plate in the fridge." Marina said as she and Maman walked in, both carrying bags full of groceries in.

"Do you need help?" I asked but Lorenzo and Juergen walked in next, hands full as well.

"No we have these two, carrying our stuff for us." Maman said and I chuckled a little.

"Here." I handed Liam a water bottle and put some on the coffee table before I grabbed the fruit plate and put it next to the drinks.

"Yummy!" Liam sat up and grabbed a melon slice and then two more, handing one to Carla and one to Lizzie.

"What about me?" Arthur asked and Liam chuckled.

"You have to impress the ladies, not the boys." he said and I laughed out loud, almost slipping off the arm rest of the sofa.

"You heard it, you have to impress me!" Carla said and Arthur rolled his eyes sitting up, grabbing a slice of melon for himself.

"Here." Liam handed her some strawberries and then turned to Arthur wiggling his eyebrows.

"I might want a boyfriend upgrade." Carla chuckled, pinching Liams cheek.

"Yeah, me too!" Lizzie looked at me and I immediately handed her some more fruits "Or maybe not… we’ll see." I kissed her head when I walked back to the kitchen, helping to store away the groceries, listening in on Lorenzo’s and Juergen’s conversation.

"I can take a look at the accounts if you want to. It shouldn’t be too hard to separate the business accounts from the private ones." Lorenzo said and Juergen nodded.

"Hans’ karting track?" I asked and they both nodded "Everything alright?"

"Yeah. It’s just a bit messy with the accounting. I want it to be clearly divided between Lizzie’s inheritance and the business accounts. He left her a huge amount of money." Juergen said.

"Yeah, Lizzie told me that he was really generous?"

"Generous? That’s not even enough to fathom what he left her."

"He loved her a lot." I shrugged my shoulders.

"That he did."

"And the business accounts are also very well stocked. So all the plans you have are fully covered. The remodel and renovation will be amazing." Lorenzo said and I smiled, knowing that Lizzie would be more than happy to see the karting track shine again, under the lead of her dad.

"But when we are talking about the inheritance… did Lizzie tell you that she wants to move to Monaco?" Juergen asked and I nodded.

"Yeah. We talked about it…" I said sitting down at the counter.

"You don’t seem happy about it?" Lorenzo asked and Juergen looked up from the sink.

"I am happy. Really. We just had a little… well it wasn’t a fight or anything, let’s say we had a little disagreement. That’s it."

"And what was it about? Is it settled?" Juergen looked at me.

"I told her that I don’t understand why she would spend millions for a flat if she could just move in with me… I mean, let’s be honest, as soon as she lives in Monaco, I will be at her place all the time or she’ll be at mine… it’s a waste of money…" waiting for their reaction, almost expecting them to have the same one as Lizzie.

"You’re right. It will be a waste of money… but it’s her money…" Juergen said and I looked up "What? You thought I had a different opinion? Maybe like Lizzie? I know my daughter… she wasn’t happy with your suggestion?"

"Not really. No." I sighed.

"I want what’s best for her, and if she decides to move away, I would feel a lot more relieved to know that she lives with you… but I won’t say anything. She has set a budget. She has a little list with things that she wants."

"Yeah. That list was a joke! 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, nice kitchen, open floor plan and a balcony. That was it? No, I told her already that it has to be a building with high security. Underground parking. A good neighbour hood…" I began but Lorenzo and Juergen laughed.

"Oh come on, Charles. It’s Monaco! Every neighbour hood is a good neighbour hood." Juergen said but I rolled my eyes.

"I meant that I want her close… to, you know, check in every now and then…" I said.

"You mean you want her in close range for a booty call." Arthur appeared next to me and Lorenzo laughed, Juergen cocked an eyebrow and I just slapped the back of his head.

"What is wrong with you? Are you serious?" I said furiously.

"I’m just saying what everyone is thinking!" he held up his hands but I shook my head.

"Then be like everyone else and just think it!" I got up and left.

"Oh come on! I’m just messing with you! Charles?" Arthur said but I flipped him off and grabbed Liam.

"Come on, let’s go swimming." I said and he giggled excitedly.

"Yay!"

"I think he has a little crush on Carla." I said to Charles who looked up from his book just in time to see how Liam handed Carla a bottle of water and then blushed when she gave him a little peck on the cheek, giggling like crazy and running away.

"He’s a charming little fella, no one is immune against those puppy eyes… I know what I’m talking about." he kissed my shoulder and I laughed.

"Poor Arthi, at the end of this trip he’ll be single!" I leaned back and Charles chuckled.

"When do we have the dinner reservation?" Sissy asked as she walked out on the terrace, sitting down on a lounger next to us.

"Half past 6. We‘ll meet you guys there. I want to go back to that cute little bookstore. They had so many beautiful special editions, the illustrations are gorgeous." I said and Charles nodded.

"Okay." Sissy said and I checked the time.

"Alright I’ll go upstairs and get ready" I said and got up and went to our bedroom, taking a quick shower and getting ready.

"You look pretty…" Charles said as he walked in, big smile on his face.

"Thanks." I said and looked in the mirror, Charles stepping behind me.

"I always loved your hair like that, in summer. It’s brighter, and the salt water makes it wavy. And you get these cute tiny freckles on your nose, almost invisible, just if you come close enough you can see them." he kissed my nose and I giggled.

"Stop it! If we want to have enough time at the book store, we need to go now! So hurry up! Get ready!" I scolded him a little.

"Almost done!" he chuckled and took a shower, dressed up and was ready to go in under 15 minutes.

"When you can do it this fast? Why do you need almost an hour usually?" I asked as we walked downstairs, out to the car.

"Because I like to take my time." he opened my door and pushed me gently in.

"So when I get ready, you keep on nagging me to hurry up. But when you get ready you just take your damn time instead of hurrying, just like me?" I asked and he nodded.

"Yup, pretty much it."

"You’re an ass."

"Your ass."

"My ass." I sighed dramatically.

"Why did I knew that we would be the first ones here, although we took our damn time in that bookstore?" we walked inside the restaurant, no ones else there.

"Maybe they’re sitting outside?" Charles asked a waiter "Or not. He said we could sit outside as long as they’re preparing our tables. Come on pretty girl, I ordered us something to drink." I followed him outside, on the terrace overlooking the harbour. He pulled out my chair and I sat down.

"Thank you." I smiled at him and he sat down next to me, both facing the busy harbour "It’s so beautiful here… I’m gonna miss this. It was quiet. Peaceful."

"Yeah. It was great just being us. Hugging and kissing you, carefree. No cameras. No fans. No pressure." he sighed a little and put his hand on my thigh underneath the table, gently stroking my naked skin that was peaking out from my dress. The waiter put down our drinks and told us that our table was ready for us but we could enjoy the drinks first.

"Cheers, to the first part of our journey." Charles said and we toasted our glasses when someone behind us called out Charles name.

"Charles? Is that you?" a male voice asked in French and we turned around.

"Fred? Hi! What are you doing here?" Charles wanted to get up from his chair, but Fred patted his arm and leaned down and they hugged.

"Lizzie! It’s so good to see you again!" he leaned down to me and we kissed cheeks "I hope they all treat you right in the paddock?"

"Umm… sure…" I said and he chuckled.

"I hope they try to at least…" he said and I nodded "Good! That’s really good!" he smiled and then looked at our table and the two drinks "So, am I interrupting a date? Are you two finally a couple?"

I chocked on my drink and Charles handed me a napkin.

"We’re not- umm… no. We’re here with our family!" Charles stammered and Fred laughed, patting his back.

"I know how love looks, boy. And you loved this girl here even back in F2 when she was testing for us and you were testing for Haas." he said and I felt my cheeks turning red "But I understand… it’s a secret! I won’t tell anyone!" he zipped his mouth shut and Charles smiled appreciatively "Just make sure to name your first son after me!" he laughed and now Charles blushed as well a little.

Before one of us could say anything more, Liam run up to us.

"I’m heeeeereeee!" he screeched and then stopped abruptly when he saw Fred "Oh."

"Liam, this is Fred. He was my team principal when I started in F1." Charles introduced him and Liam smiled shyly up at Fred.

"Hi." Liam held his hand out and Fred took it in his, shaking it.

"Hello Liam, we already met once! You were a baby back then." he said and Liam made big eyes.

"I was at a race as a baby?" he asked excitedly.

"Yup you were, Bubba!" Charles said and Liam clapped excitedly, as the rest of our family finally caught up to Liam. They all said their hellos with Fred before he had to leave.

"It was nice to see you all! Enjoy the rest of your break, you two! See you around!" he waved goodbye and was gone, right as a waiter came to bring us to our table.

When the conversations died down a little and we were ready to leave, we drove back to our rental house, sitting around the fire pit.

"I don’t want you two to leave!" Liam pouted a little while climbing into Charles’ lap.

"I know Bubba. But we see you in Spa? That’s in 2 weeks already! And tomorrow Benji will come and you have another week here! That’s not too bad now?" he said gently and Liam nodded slowly.

"Hmm okay. You’re right." he whispered, playing with one of Charles’ bracelets "But I’ll miss you."

"You know that I miss you every day when I don’t see you?" Charles whispered back and Liam looked up at him.

"Really?" he asked and Charles hugged him close.

"Of course, Bubba!" Charles kissed his head and Liam cuddled up into his embrace "Here, take that and whenever you miss me, look at the bracelet!" Charles slipped the bracelet Liam played before off of his wrist and put it around Liams wrist, making it tighter.

"I can really keep it?" Liams eyes sparkled and Charles nodded.

"Thank you." he threw his arms around Charles’ neck and giggled a little. After a while he got up and started to read in one of his books.

We all sat together, talking, when Liam brought Carla a little blanket and put it around her shoulders, when he saw her shivering a bit.

"Oh Liam! You’re a real little gentleman! Thank you!" she kissed his cheek and he blushed a little, returning to his seat giggling.

"He’s a real charmer!" I whispered to Charles.

"He learned from the best!" he said proudly and I laughed "Why are you laughing? I’m serious?"

"Yeah! Of course you are!" I said and he pinched my side.

"What? I’m not charming?" he asked me and cocked an eyebrow.

"Very, very charming!" I smiled at and kissed him "The most charming person I know."

"Thank you." he kissed my cheek as Arthur plopped down next to Liam, holding his heart like he was in pain.

"You okay, Arthi?" Liam looked up at him.

"No! You little munchkin! You have to stop or my girlfriend will leave me!" Arthur sighed dramatically.

"For me?" he asked and I had to suppress my laughter.

"You’re a little too young, Bubba. But you are just too charming and cute! I can’t keep up with you! So, can you pleeeeaaase tone it down a bit?" Arthur pleaded a little and Liam chuckled.

"Okay. But when I’m older and she still wants a boyfriend upgrade, I‘ll be there!"

"Deal!" Arthur pulled Liam to his side and ruffled his hair and I laughed out loud.

"Liam’s crush on Carla and Arthur sweating because Bubba might or might not steal away his girlfriend really was my highlight of this trip!" I whispered and Charles nodded.

"Definitely!"

"5 days just straight party?" I sighed and leaned back on the sun bed and Charles next to me laughed.

"What? Too old to keep up?" he cocked an eyebrow and I slapped his thigh.

"No but a week full of running around with Liam was exhausting after a very tiring first half of the season!" I said, closing my eyes, ignoring the tension I felt for a couple of weeks now in my back.

"You’re the youngest of us and you’re the one complaining?" Shima laughed and I flinched.

"You’re here!" I screeched and jumped up, hugging first her and then Daniel.

"We’re here. We’re ready. Let’s party!" Daniel said and hugged first Charles then Joris "Where’s the other happy couple?"

"Still in their room. Marta doesn’t feel too well." Charles said.

"Oh okay." Daniel said and sat down on one of the loungers "Is it too early for a drink?"

"I already had a breakfast margarita." I chuckled and he cocked an eyebrow.

"What is a breakfast margarita?"

"A margarita she drank during breakfast…" Charles laughed and I shrugged my shoulders.

"We’re in Ibiza to have fun I thought?"

"You are absolutely right, cara mia. We are!" Charles pinched my side and we ordered another round of drinks, toasting to the next days.

"So, the first half of your first season in Formula 1 is done. Top 3 of your favourite races and Top 3 of your worst..." Joris said and Charles rolled his eyes.

"Guys! No talking about work!" he groaned and I chuckled.

"Don’t be so grumpy! Okay. Worst. Top 3. Let’s see. In third place Miami, I mean… I DNFd. In second place… umm Imola and Barcelona? They were both not my best performances. But the top spot is fucking Montreal. That whole weekend was cursed!" I took a big sip of my cocktail, while Joris contemplated my answers.

"I would’ve thought Miami would be your number 1… because you know…" he said and I laughed.

"Because so DNFd? I mean, wasn’t the best weekend, but it was a new track with almost zero data to compare. No, it wasn’t the worst."

"Okay. Now you Charles." Daniel said and Charles sat up, sighing.

"Okay, if I have too. Third Miami. Second Imola. First France."

"But you won Miami?" Shima asked and Joris looked at him confused.

"Yeah but I also almost lost Lizzie, again." his voice was void of any emotion. It’s sounded more like a straight fact.

"The crash wasn’t that bad! Come on!" I took his hand in mine.

"But I didn’t know that. You didn’t respond. And the marshals had to get you out of the car… I didn’t know how bad or not it was." Charles voice was quiet, and he looked down.

"But I was- I am okay." I squeezed his hand and made him look at me "It’s all good."

"I know…"

"Okay… it’s getting a little too sad here. Top 3 of your best now go!" Joris clapped his hands and pointed to me.

"Third was Australia. What a race! And a freaking P2! Second… oh yeah! Bahrain! First race first podium! And first obviously Silverstone!" I lifted my glass to the sky and drank on Hans.

"Good picks. Charles?"

"Third Austria. Second Australia and first Miami." he said and now we all looked at him confused "As bad as it was… I didn’t just win the race that day. I also-" Charles began but I had to interrupt him.

"If you say no something cheesy like but you also won the race to my heart… I’ll push you in the pool!" I cocked an eyebrows and Joris and Shima nodded agreeing.

"I help you, Lizzie."

"Me too!"

"Oh come on! It’s cute!" Daniel chimed in he and Charles high fived, before Charles stood up.

"In first place Miami because I won the race on track and the race to mon amours heart!" he cannon balled into the pool and I had to laugh "Come on in! Let’s start the party!" Charles waved for us to join him and I followed his lead, Joris, Daniel and Shima right on my heels.

"IBIZA HERE WE GO!"

Shima, Marta and I sat cramped together on the bathroom floor of Charles’ and mine bathroom, doing our make up and our hairs.

"I think I just do a little glitter here and there and a little eyeliner and that’s it!" I said and Shima laughed, straightening her hair.

"You mean I do your eyeliner."

"Exactly." I laughed and Marta handed me the hair straightener and I smiled at her "And I’m so glad that you’re feeling better again!"

"Me too! The first 3 days of Ibiza and I had a stomach bug." she said looking a little flustered.

"Are you sure you’re okay?" I asked her and she nodded.

"Of course! Sure my stomach is still a little sensitive but it’s fine. Water and coke for me tonight. I don’t need alcohol to party with my friends!"

"I don’t need it… but I want it!" Shima laughed and Marta and I joined in "Will you show us now your dress?"

"Ooouuuhhh yeah! I’m dying to see it!" Marta agreed and I rolled my eyes.

"It’s nothing that special! It’s just a little… well you’ll see!" I said and we got up, leaving the bathroom and the 2 girls sat down on our bed "Okay, I’ll put it on!" I grabbed the black dress and left hurriedly. I took off my shirt and shorts and looked at the dress. Now that I had it in my hand I was a little worried. But I put it on and turned around, looking into the mirror "Wow…" I mumbled, that was short and tight.

"Come on! Let us see!" Shima screeched and I stepped out of the bathroom, both of them staring at me "Oh my god…"

"Lizzie…" Marta began and I was nervously looking down.

"Bad?" I asked and Shima snapped her head up.

"What?"

"Does it look bad?" I asked.

"Lizzie, babe, you look smoking hot. Charles will jump you as soon as he sees you!" Shima said and got up.

"You look amazing! That dress looks like fire on you!" Marta followed Shima and I turned around to look into the floor to ceiling tall mirror.

"Isn’t it a little… too tight and too short?" I asked and Shima shook her head.

"Absolutely not!" she said and Marta next to her nodded.

I looked back into the mirror, smoothing the dress down. Turning to the side a little, trying to look at myself from all angles, the dress was short ending way above my knees, I would have to tuck it down the whole night, too feel fully covered. It was tight, hugging my body almost like a second skin.

"I really like the cut out at the cleavage and that it’s a one shoulder dress but still showing off your amazing boobs that you usually hide." Shima said and I laughed.

"Thanks, I guess?"

"No seriously, Lizzie. You look amazing! Charles will have a hard time tonight to keep his hands to himself." Marta smiled and Shima looked at my feet.

"What shoes are we wearing?" she asked and I turned around.

"Don’t freak out now!" I said sheepishly and Shimas eyes widened. I walked to my closet and grabbed the black satin bag.

"I’m not dreaming… Jimmy Choo’s?" she almost whispered and I nodded handing her the bag and she opened it, taking the shoes out carefully "Look at them… they’re gorgeous. If I could I would make love to them…" I chuckled and walked back to the closet, taking another pair of high heels out.

"But Lizzie? That’s the wrong size?" she looked up right as I slipped in my second shoe.

"Happy Birthday!" I said and Shima screeched loud, pulling me into a tight hug.

"My dress! My hair! Watch out!" I laughed.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" she kissed my cheek and slipped the shoes immediately on "Oh god they feel so good!"

"They look fabulous!" Marta smiled and put her own high heels on "Are we ready to dance the night away?"

"Hell yeah!" Shima and I said simultaneously and we all laughed.

I took a long look in the mirror, smoothing the fabric of the dress down.

"You look amazing, girl! Stop fidgeting!" Shima rolled her eyes a little and I swallowed hard.

"She’s right, Lizzie. You look awesome!" Marta said softly and I sighed a little, nodding slowly. The dress was amazing. The shoes were amazing. And I didn’t look too bad wearing it. After seeing a Twitter thread 2 weeks ago, a very viral one, criticising again the way I dressed, saying it was too boring, not fashionable enough, not feminine enough, I thought a lot about it. I knew that I shouldn’t care about it, that I should ignore it. But for some reason I couldn’t get the comments out of my head. I never cared much for the newest fashion trends, I mostly wore outfits that I liked, if they weren’t modern or fancy or fashionable? I didn’t care. But the comments got worse and worse. And I decided to do something against it and bought some clothes that were way out of my comfort zone. Just like tonight’s dress.

"Hey? Lizzie? Everything alright?" Shima said, interrupting my train of thoughts, and I nodded.

"Yeah, sure. Let’s go!" I grabbed my bag and took one last look in the mirror before we left the room. I can do this. Shima and Marta said I looked great and if I decided to not believe them, then Charles reaction was everything reassurance that I needed.

"No. We’re staying in tonight." were his first words and I cocked an eyebrow "Cara mia, I might end up in jail tonight. For kicking every guys ass who dares to just take a little glimpse of you! I won’t spare you just because you’re my friend, Joris, I’ve seen your look!"

"Okay now stop!" I laughed and hit his shoulder playfully, but he pulled me into him, his mouth close to my ear. His lips ghosting over my earlobe.

"Cara mia, I’m dead serious. You look incredible tonight. The most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen. And the hottest one for sure…" nothing more than a breath on my skin and I shuddered a little.

"Okay, save that for later. Now we go partying!" Shima pushed Charles and me to make us walk and we followed the rest of the group, Charles walking behind me "Stop staring at her ass, Leclerc!"

"I can’t. It’s captivating."

"Gross."

"Shut up, Birthday girl."

Marta and Riccardo were dancing in their own little bubble, Joris and Daniel were talking and Charles was standing next to them, watching me dance with Shima.

"He can’t take his eyes off of you!" Shima shouted in my ear and I smiled a little, the alcohol making me blush harder than usually.

"Oh come on!" I laughed but she just shook her head.

"You’re so annoying, babe! You look gorgeous! You’re smoking hot and your equally hot boyfriend is practically undressing you with his eyes right now! Can you please acknowledge that?" she rolled her eyes.

"I can acknowledge that he is smoking hot, because look around, basically every girl is staring at him!" I waved my hand around and Shima followed it.

"Yeah of course they all keep staring at him! But look at him? He only has eyes for you! You can see that, right?"

"I guess so…" I let out.

"Hey? It’s Charles? He loves you? Why are you doubting that all of a sudden?" she looked at me intently and I sighed.

"Because lately… I don’t know, Shima. He’s so… and I’m just…" I was at a loss of words and she cocked an eyebrow "I need to go to the toilet, I’ll be right back, okay?" I said and she nodded, hesitantly, but let me go.

I locked the door of the bathroom stall behind me and took a deep breath. The door opened and the music from the stage got louder before the door closed again and the music was only a faint background noise.

"That was 100% Charles Leclerc!" a girl said and I tensed up.

"He looked hot, as always! We should definitely try and talk with him, shoot our shot…" another girl laughed.

"He must feel miserable! There are his friends making out with each other, and then he’s there alone with no one!" a third voice.

"But isn’t the German driver here as well? His rumoured girlfriend?"

"Oh come on! All those little fan girlies who want them to be together? There’s a reason why they’re just friends for what? 10 years?"

"He looks like a Greek god and she just like any normal girl?"

"Totally! She’s nothing special. He needs someone with class, someone elegant, hot! And not that driver."

"Isn’t she also an alcoholic? Wasn’t there a video where she was totally hammered early in the day already?" I felt my mouth becoming dry.

"Yes! I remember! You also saw her disgusting scars. Ewww." A lump formed inside my throat.

"Yeah. I get it. He’s just a nice guy who hangs out with her out of pity… he deserves better! He deserves a girl by his side tonight!"

"He can be lucky and get one of us!"

They all started laughing, leaving the bathroom. I leaned against the door. Trying to breathe steadily. I felt tears stinging in my eyes and grabbed some toilet paper, dabbing my eyes. I saw the looks of every girl around us the whole night. Ogling Charles up and down. He looked ravishing. Like always. Of course I couldn’t compare to him. But hiding in a bathroom stall wouldn’t help me either, so I braced myself and took one last deep breath unlocking the door. I washed my hands and walked out. Right to the VIP area next to the stage, where we were partying the last hours. I grabbed a water from the bar and made my way up the few steps as I stopped abruptly. 3 girls dancing around Charles, Joris and Daniel. One whispering something in Charles ear. I turned around and walked back to the bar. Exchanging my water against a tequila shot and then another one, ordering a third one not daring to look into the VIP area. Someone bumped into me and I turned around, one of the girls who just danced with Joris and Daniel standing now behind me, looking from me to the bar, 3 empty shot glasses in front of me. She snickered and pinched her other friend, pointing at the glasses. They both looked at me and then walked off. I could hear the words alcoholic and slutty dress. I ordered a cocktail and sat down.

"Lizzie? Hey? You got lost on your way to the bathroom?" Shima squeezed my arm and I looked at her "Why are you sitting here? Drinking all alone?"

"Because there are much prettier girls here in the club, they want a chance with him… and they’re right… he deserves a pretty one… elegant, classy, gorgeous! Not me, bulky and muscular, not lady like…" I slurred, the alcohol clearly showing.

"What are you even talking about? Where is this all coming from all of a sudden?" Shima was confused but I just chuckled and turned her around to look at the VIP area.

"See? That girl talking with Charles? She’s gorgeous! Look at her, Shima! She is the kind of girl people expect by his side. Not someone like me!" I sighed, sipping at my cocktail.

"Okay, you had enough to drink, come on. I don’t know why you say things like that? Did someone say something to you?" she grabbed my hand, dragging me with her away from the crowd and the stage to the side, where it was way more quiet and we didn’t had to yell at each other. We sat down on a sofa.

"What’s happening, Lizzie? Something is bothering you. I’ve seen it for the past couple of days. But tonight especially? You’re not really doubting him?" Shima asked me quietly and I shook my head, getting dizzy and sitting down.

"I don’t doubt him! Not one second! You have no idea how amazing he is! I mean… you all can see how he treats me? But that’s not all… it’s those quiet moments, when it’s just him and I. Alone. Doesn’t matter if it’s just in bed or the sofa, doing some work-outs together. He’s perfect. Seriously. I don’t even know how he’s putting up with me? I’m not like him! He lays his heart and soul out before me. He’s so attentive and affectionate. Outspoken! God he knows how to use words that melt you like hot butter. He’s so sure of us. And then there’s me? I’m insecure and in my head. I never know how to be affectionate like him, without being to clingy? How to be attentive without being annoying? I’m just scared that I’ll do too much of everything… and I’m not good with words or with explaining my emotions. I’m just not like him. I wish I could! I swear! Since we’re together I wish I could be more like him. Show him how much I love him? That he means the world to me… but I just don’t know how… and then there’s… umm-" I let it all out, the alcohol making me lose any filter, although I stopped abruptly, not knowing how to explain what was bothering me really.

"That disgusting Twitter feed you keep reading over and over?" Shima asked and I looked at her with big eyes "I’ve seen it on your iPad… Lizzie you do know that these are just some insecure, jealous bitches? They know that they never will have a chance with Charles and so they lash out? And because you and Charles are this close you’re their target!" she took my hand in hers and squeezed it.

"But they’re not wrong about everything! You can say about Camille what you want, but they looked amazing together! She looked like a model! Straight out of a magazine and me? I don’t even want to start…"

"Honestly? Don’t you have mirrors? I don’t know how you can look like this and honestly think you’re what? Not pretty enough for Charles? You know that I’m always honest with you? So please believe me when I say that you’re beautiful! Everyone would be happy to be seen with you! Just like Charles! Lizzie he doesn’t want anyone else! He wants you! Just you! And you are beautiful and gorgeous! I mean we could do something with your hair… I always said that I think long and wavy hair with maybe some warm highlights would look awesome! And we could get rid of these team shirts for race weekends and put you into something cute and fancy! But that’s just little things…" Shima looked at me and I laughed a little.

"Yeah not gonna happen! It’s hard enough to get this amount of hair tucked into my suit and under my helmet without restraining me! And nope! Team merch it is! Maybe we could go more casual with how we combine it here and there but that’s it!"

"Okay! But can you do me a favour? Can you please accept that you’re smoking hot and beautiful and amazing and perfect and that Charles loves you! Just you!"

"We don’t want to exaggerate! The way I am is perfectly fine!" I laughed and she groaned.

"You’re frustrating! So frustrating! I need a drink now! Hop hop! Let’s go!" Shima jumped up and pulled me with her.

"Not so fast please. I think I need a water… I had too much to drink." I mumbled and she laughed.

"3 shots and a cocktail in what? 15 minutes? Yeah I would feel like shit as well…" Shima held my hand and we walked to the bar, where I got a water and almost emptied the bottle in one go. I looked back into the VIP area, where a new girl was at Charles’ site, another beautiful, sweet girl. Shima followed my look and sighed.

"Come on. Let’s go up there and dance." she said and I nodded, grabbing another water bottle.

As soon as we walked up the stairs Charles was next to me, gently pulling me to the side, leaning down to say something.

"Hey pretty girl, where were you? I thought one of your many admirers whisked you away from me!" he chuckled a little, his breath tickling my ear.

"My many admirers? Have you looked around? Every single girl in here keeps staring at you!" I answered and although I tried to sound amused, I failed and my voice cracked a little.

"Really? I didn’t notice that, because the only thing I saw was you… in that dress… and my imagination of that same dress on the floor of our room later tonight…" he whispered and my cheeks began to burn with heat.

"Oh come on…" I giggled and Charles eyes grew dark.

"Mhhh I can’t wait to get rid of that dress…" he gently stroked my sides with his hand, smoothing down the fabric of my dress "I will rip is straight off of your body…"

"The hell you do! Do you know how expensive that dress was! We’ll take it off nice and carefully!"

"I’ll buy you a new one. Or ten new ones, I don’t care! But you… you look just so incredibly gorgeous and so freaking sexy in it… my second favourite outfit on you!"

"And what’s your favourite?"

He leaned in even closer, his lips brushing now my ear.

"Wouldn’t you like to know…" he chuckled.

I was about to say something when the brunette, who talked with Charles when Shima and I came back, lightly tapped his arm. He turned around and he smiled at her, a big, genuine and hearty smile. And my stomach dropped.

"I just wanted to say goodbye! It was good to see you!" the girl said and Charles nodded.

"Yeah it was good to see you too, Charlotte." he said and Charlotte looked at me.

"I always said to Marta that you two would make a beautiful couple." she smiled at me and I looked at her with big eyes.

"Lizzie, this is Charlotte. We went to school together. She and Marta are close friends." Charles introduced us and I smiled shyly at her "Don’t worry, she won’t tell anyone…"

"I mean if they pay me a million… who knows…" she laughed and I had to laugh with her.

"I don’t think that we’re this important, but honestly, if anyone offers you that much? You have my blessings."

"I will keep that in mind! Have a good night you two! And a good rest of your summer break!" she pulled me in a hug and looked at me apologetic "I’m sorry! I’m a hugger!" she laughed and I smiled.

I just smiled as she hugged Charles and then left with a last wave. I watched her walk away and Charles squeezed my waist.

"I think we got interrupted…" he smiled at me, pulling me even closer to him.

"Yeah you wanted to tell me what your favourite outfit one me is!"

"Was I now?" Charles breathed it in my ear and I began to shiver. He planted a little kiss right underneath my jawline and pulled back, smiling at me. I let out a long, shaking breath and he leaned back in, his lips now touching my ear and I felt goosebumps erupt all over my body, my heart almost jumping out of my breast.

"That red lace lingerie set…"

Charles POV:

"Morning." Joris mumbled and plopped down in the chair next to me when I watched Lizzie and Daniel talking while loading up their plates "Earth to Charles? You there?"

"What?" I looked at him and he sighed.

"Can we today just hang out and do nothing? I’m done…" he mumbled and I just nodded.

"Yeah yeah, sure." I said as Lizzie’s phone vibrated next to mine. I glanced down and scoffed. A message from Paul. They were texting? I felt the urge to grab the phone and read the message. I hated this guy.

"Okay, you’re not listening to me…" Joris huffed and got up, right as Daniel and Lizzie sat down.

"Who’s not listening?" Daniel asked and Joris waved to me "Why aren’t you listening?"

"Doesn’t matter." I got up and followed Joris, grabbing myself some food, although I lost my appetite. I saw how Lizzie tapped away on her phone, laughing and shaking her head. Oh? What did Paul say that’s so funny?

"Mate! What is wrong with you?" Joris slapped my arm and I looked at him, then the mess I made with the orange juice in front of me "You and Lizzie? All good? Don’t look at me like that! Spill the beans!"

"This mechanic? The guy I told you about? He comments on every post, always flirting, Lizzie doesn’t see it… I mean she sees the comments but she doesn’t think that he’s flirting! Last night? He commented that she’s a hot mess! And one of her mechanics replied that he’s shooting his shot! And then…"

"You didn’t reply? Right? You didn’t say something stupid, staking your claim on her? Right?" Joris groaned.

"What? No? First off, staking my claim on her? In what century do you live? And second… I just said that I know her for a while and that he needs to find another target. And that little fucker replied with we‘ll see! He’s so fucking flirting with her!"

I felt my blood boiling when Lizzie threw her head back laughing after reading a new text. Fucking Paul. I walked back and sat down, Lizzie squeezing my thigh, smiling up at me.

"Can we just lay at the pool and do nothing? I’m done… last night was a lot." she said and I nodded.

"Sure." I said through gritted teeth when her phone was vibrating again "You’re in great demand today."

"What do you mean?" she asked, looking confused.

"Your phone…"

"Oh yeah. Sorry." she smiled, gently stroking my thigh and I melted away under her touch, right as another text came through, I saw the screen lit up, Paul.

"I’m going to lay down for a little. My head is pounding." I got up and Lizzie looked at me with wide eyes.

"Are you okay? Do you want me to come with you?" she asked, concern in her voice.

"Nope. You have fun texting with Paul." I said coldly and walked away. Ughhh. Jealousy has a really bitter taste. Back in our room I sat down on the bed, feeling bad. I didn’t even know why I was jealous. Lizzie was here with me. In 2 days we would go to Sardinia, just us. A romantic getaway. She was my girlfriend. I already won. And still. The way he looked at her. Always made sure to be close to her. Now even texted her. I groaned in frustrating, falling back down onto the bed. He did this. Not Lizzie. Yet it was her who I let out my frustration on. Again. I rubbed my temples when I heard the door opening. Let her be mad. You deserve it.

"Did you read my messages?" was the first thing she asked and I sat up.

"No."

"Are you sure? Why did you think I was texting with Paul, then?"

"I saw his name on the screen."

"Why did you look at my screen."

"Your phone was right next to mine, it vibrated, I looked down to see whose phone it was. It was yours. With a text from Paul."

"Well it wasn’t…"

"Lizzie. I saw it. He texted you."

"No, he didn’t."

"Why are you lying? I saw his name!" I groaned.

"Did you look closely?"

"What?"

"Did you look closely? Did you actually took my phone and checked the notification or did you just saw the name Paul and that was it."

"The second option but why does that matter?"

"It matters because I, in fact, don’t text with Paul. He sent some stuff into our Audi WhatsApp group."

"Audi WhatsApp group?"

"Audi WhatsApp group. Team group. We send memes and gifs and stuff. Not more. Just some fun stuff. For everyone to read."

"Oh."

"Oh indeed."

"I’m sorry. I just…"

"Save it. I’m here with you! I bought a ton of new outfits for you! I’m sharing a bed with you! I had to watch the last two nights in the club how practically every girl there was trying to flirt with you. YOU! And not once was I jealous! Or mad!"

"I know! Okay! Please Lizzie, I’m sorry! But this guy… I know you don’t want to see it. But he is flirting with you! Like crazy! Yes I know there were some girls, but I not once looked at them! I only had eyes for you! And it’s not like these girls work with me and constantly lure around me! Unlike Paul! That’s the only reason why I’m so fucking jealous. No it’s not even jealousy! It’s more… he’s infuriating me! And you won’t acknowledge what everyone else is seeing!"

"Because it doesn’t matter if he flirts with me or not! I don’t fucking care!"

"I know that! God! I’m not stupid! But it still agitates me! It makes my blood boil. He wants to shoot his shot with you! And you can’t even say that you have a boyfriend because no one can know about us!"

"Is that the real problem here? Are you mad that I want to… I want to keep us a secret? Is that what this is all about?"

"Fucking hell. No! I don’t care about that! I just don’t like that this guy is flirting with you. Period." I breathed out frustrated.

"Okay." Lizzie looked at me.

"Okay?" I asked cautiously.

"Okay." she walked away.

"And now?"

"Now I’m putting on a bathing suit and meet our friends downstairs. You can decide for yourself if you want to stay here and sulk or come with me and hang out with us."

"Are you still mad at me?"

"No. I wasn’t mad at all. I was annoyed because it felt like I was talking with a wall."

"I’m sorry, cara mia." I mumbled and got up, hugging her "I really have no problem with us keeping our relationship a secret! I really just don’t like this guy…"

"I know…" she sighed and kissed my cheek "But why would I care for him if I have you? My Monegasque Prince Charming, who’s an idiot and oh so stupid every now and then?"

"I let that last part slide, but just because you said that I’m your Prince Charming…"

"To our last night in Ibiza!" Joris said and we toasted our glasses.

"To our last night!"

"I have to say that I’m a little glad that we’re leaving tomorrow, even tho I don’t know where to. But partying this much? Exhausting!" I whispered into Charles ear and he nodded.

"I’m just happy to spent some alone time with you!" he whispered back and I smiled.

"Do you have any ideas where you’re going?" Shima asked me and I sighed.

"Nope. Nothing. I only know that we’re flying tomorrow morning at 10. And because we’re taking the jet, I couldn’t even check what flights are leaving…"

"You looked that up?" Charles asked and I nodded "Just relax and enjoy your surprise!"

"Okay, okay!" I said and looked around "You all know where we’re going, right?"

"No clue!"

"No!"

"Nope!"

"No idea."

"Hell yeah!"

We all looked at Joris who looked up from his plate.

"I mean no. Of course not." he said hastily and Shima patted his hand.

"Good cover up!" she laughed.

"It’s okay you guys. Keep your secrets to yourself." I rolled my eyes dramatically.

"Well there is one secret we want to share!" Riccardo said and I looked up. He gently took Martas hand in his and they both smiled at us "We’re having a baby!"

We all jumped up and congratulated and hugged them.

"OH MY GOD!" Joris shouted out pulling Riccardo to his side.

"How amazing!" Shima hugged Marta.

"I can’t believe it!" Charles pulled both of them in his arms with tears in his eyes.

"I’m so happy for you guys!" I said and hugged first Marta and then Riccardo "Now we know what that stomach bug was!"

"Yeah… it began right before we left Monaco. And according to some books I’ve read it might get worse… but it all will be worth it!" Marta smiled, absently rubbing her stomach.

"It will be more than worth it!" I smiled at her "We need to drink on it! Champagne! We need champagne! Oh god no! Wait! You can’t drink!"

"It’s fine. You drink champagne and I have a soda water." Marta said while Charles already ordered 2 bottles of champagne. As soon as the bottles arrived and we all had a full glass in our hand we toasted to Marta and Riccardo.

"To Marta and Riccardo and the little bean, we all can’t wait to meet!" Charles said and looked lovingly at his two friends. When he sat down he put his hand on my thigh gently caressing it "Can you believe it? A baby? A tiny Riccardo or Marta… wow. It’s just… wow!"

"Oh Charlie bear." I whispered and wiped a stray tear off of his "You’re adorable." I kissed his cheek.

"I’m just really happy for them. But also… I mean Andrea and Simon, Julia and Kev and now Marta and Riccardo? Am I getting crazy or are we all growing up slowly?"

"Pretty boy, you turn 25 in October? You do realise that we all are already grown ups?" I chuckled.

"I guess so." he sighed and downed his champagne.

"With Marta and Riccardo now expecting… I’d say you two are next?" Joris said and Charles and I both looked at him with wide eyes.

"What?" we said in unison and they all laughed.

"I was just kidding! But the look on your faces? Priceless!" Joris laughed and Charles shook his hand, putting his hand on my thigh, gently squeezing it.

"Let us both win a championship first, then we can talk again…" he said and I nodded.

"I hold you to that!" Joris said and we laughed.

"I’m sure you do."

Part 2 ➡️

Little Note:

Chapter 23.1 - SUMMER BREAK 🩵🌴☀️ very fluffy, my favourite duo Liam and Charles has some cute moments. Part 2 will be Lizzie and Charles on their romantic getaway ♥️

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

If you want to be added to the taglist, drop a comment!

Last but not least, English is not my first language and although I tried my best: please excuse any mistakes I made!

Taglist:

@silkenthusiasts @eugene-emt-roe @sunny44 @itsjustkhaos @glitterquadricorn @aundercover @kakorrhaphiphobia @alittlebitofbooksandmagic @ru-kru @glitterf1 @janeholt3 @maeve-wileyy @18754389 @chiliwhore @hellowgoodbye @queensassybitchsworld @skynel09 @harrysdimple05

All the images I’m using are from Google, Pinterest and Instagram (or self made).

[stevishabitat]

wodneswynn Hey, listen: We're not gonna get anywhere with this "socialism" stuff unless we can establish solidarity networks that provide. real, tangible aid. And I do mean "tangible" in the sense of "you can fill up a box with it."

Back in the old-timey days, when we didn't have things like a minimum wage or gov- ernment assistance, folks didn't think twice about paying union dues every month out of their meager paychecks. And in those days, when it was a regular, everyday occurrence for union people to get beat up or outright murdered for their union-ing, the unions still managed to win a lot of their fights. Reason for all that? The bigger part of them union dues I mentioned "went into a strike fund",

Time on a picket line means time off the clock. And as for me, in this economy, if I go a week without a check, my family don't eat. I go two weeks without a check, and we're homeless. And them's the brakes.

Rjenroses: In my community we started a co-op in order to, in part, purchase things with mass buying power (i.e, we can get things at wholesale if we order enough of them, so we can, for example, eat organic food for about what conventional costs a lot of the time.)

But we also set aside a little money each time we order, and that money helps pay for donation boxes... and the social network we created when we created the co-op means that if someone has a crisis, someone else probably has the answer. "This family just lost their job and can't afford to buy presents for their kids" may get a response of "Here are presents for every single family member" or it might end up with finding a job for the people looking for work, or both, because the co-op membership is diverse and represents a lot of people who are otherwise. very connected in the community.

When a part of town is out of power, it's usually possible to find a co-op member who can run for ice or bring a meal, or offer use of a washer/dryer for the evening.

We had one year where we were making donation meal boxes for a holiday, found out on the last delivery about a family in severe need, talked about it in the co-op group and ended up showing up at their house with not only a meal, but enough dry goods, paper towels, toilet paper, etc. for a month, plus a credit with the co-op for fresh fruits andveggies.

I cannot overstate the power of networking. in your community. This one started out. in a natural parenting group, but quickly spread beyond that, from college students to retirees. It's like a small town, only more open-minded. We started with about 20-30 families. There are now hundreds of people involved.

I had a trans kid land with me at one point and asked if anyone had size whatever clothes and within a few hours we had a box on my porch, within a couple days we had a bunch of things he needed.

The co-op keeps a lending library of tools and weirdly specific kitchen devices like an Æbleskiver pan, a food dehydrator, a capsule maker and a carpet cleaner. The kinds of things people need once or twice a year, but might not have the room to store.

We periodically do a buy of sensory toys and sensory bin supplies, for example, because we have a lot of autistic members and parents of autistic kids,I have bought socks from the co-op that were purple with unicorns farting rainbows on them. We recently got in Black History: flashcards and we've done a lot of Black Lives Matter and Hate Has No Home lawn signs. Pretty much if people want it and we can find it at wholesale, the co-op will order it.

It even spawned a side-business (more than one, actually, but this is the relevant one) of an online app for co-op managing, called http://managemy.coop so that other communities could take advantage of our experience and start out with an easier tool than the google spreadsheets we started out with.

Anyway... if you want to network within your community, this is a really, really good way of connecting with a broad cross-section of people.

nyshadidntbreakit: All that stuff about unions still applies, too. Unions have hardship funds. If you're a union member and you're broke, or you've been fired, or whatever, you can apply to the union for a grant to help you out. The binmen in Birmingham pulled off a months-long strike. recently thanks to the union paying their living costs. Unions force employers to pay decent pension contributions and have safe sick leave policies,

If you're employed, join your damn union!

solarpunk gnomes: You might check out http://www.transitionus .org/transition-towns too. They're trying to build resilient communities by getting neighbors to talk with each other about stuff.

[cur-vy]

[pocketbaazar]

Modern Plus Size Women’s Fashion-Shop The Latest Collections With Stylish&Comfortable Fits

In a world where fashion often feels like it's designed for a single body type, plus-size women have long been sidelined. But times are changing. The fashion industry is increasingly embracing body positivity, with more brands recognizing the beauty and diversity of all shapes and sizes. If you're on the hunt for stylish, affordable plus-size clothing, this article is your ultimate guide to navigating the world of fashion that celebrates every curve.

The Evolution of Plus Size Fashion

Gone are the days when plus-size clothing meant shapeless, oversized garments that did little to highlight a woman’s beauty. Today’s plus-size fashion is bold, stylish, and, most importantly, designed with the same level of care and attention as straight-size clothing. Designers are now creating collections that are not just an afterthought but a core part of their offerings.Embracing Your Shape

The key to looking and feeling great in your clothes is to embrace your unique shape. Understanding your body type and finding cuts that accentuate your best features can make a world of difference. Whether you're an hourglass, apple, pear, or rectangle, there’s a style out there that’s perfect for you.

For hourglass figures, wrap dresses and fitted tops can highlight your curves beautifully. If you have an apple shape, try empire waistlines or A-line dresses that draw attention away from the midsection. Pear shapes can balance their silhouette with wide-leg pants or dresses that add volume to the upper body. Rectangular shapes can create the illusion of curves with belts and fitted blazers.

Affordable Fashion without Compromise

Affordability doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or quality. Many brands now offer chic, budget-friendly plus-size options that look and feel luxurious. From trendy online retailers to well-known high street brands, there are plenty of places to find stylish pieces that won’t break the bank.

Shopping sales and using discount codes can also help you stay fashionable on a budget. Don’t be afraid to mix high and low fashion – pair a statement piece with more affordable basics to create a balanced look.

Must-Have Pieces for Every Wardrobe

When building your wardrobe, focus on versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for different occasions. Here are some must-have items that every plus-size woman should consider:

Classic Jeans: A well-fitting pair of jeans is a wardrobe staple. Look for styles with a bit of stretch for comfort and a flattering fit.

Blazer: A tailored blazer adds polish to any outfit. Opt for one that nips in at the waist to create a flattering silhouette.

Little Black Dress (LBD): The LBD is timeless and versatile, perfect for everything from casual outings to formal events.

Comfortable T-Shirts: Invest in a few high-quality tees that can be dressed up with accessories or worn casually.

Statement Outerwear: A bold coat or jacket can elevate even the simplest outfit.

Comfortable Shoes: Don’t forget footwear. Comfortable yet stylish shoes can make or break an outfit.

Shopping Tips for Plus Size Women

Shopping for plus-size clothing can sometimes be challenging, but with a few tips, you can make the experience more enjoyable:

Know Your Measurements: Sizing can vary between brands, so knowing your exact measurements is crucial. Always check the size guide before purchasing.

Focus on Fit: Don’t be swayed by trends that don’t work for your body type. Focus on finding pieces that fit well and make you feel confident.

Try New Styles: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Experimenting with new styles can lead to discovering pieces you love.

Invest in Quality Basics: Basics like jeans, tees, and blazers are the foundation of your wardrobe. Invest in high-quality versions that will last.

Accessorize: Accessories can transform an outfit. Don’t underestimate the power of a statement necklace or a bold pair of earrings.

Celebrating Body Positivity

Fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a form of self-expression. Plus-size women deserve to feel confident and beautiful in what they wear. By embracing your shape and choosing pieces that make you feel good, you’re celebrating not just fashion, but yourself.

Remember, style has no size. The most important thing is how you feel in your clothes. Confidence is the best accessory you can wear, and with the right wardrobe, you’ll be unstoppable.

So, go ahead and explore the world of plus-size fashion – there’s a whole world of affordable, stylish clothing waiting for you!

[schmergo]

With the news that David’s Bridal has filed for bankruptcy, I just wanted to say that I hope they can find a buyer and don't shut down for good. I personally love my David's Bridal wedding dress (heck, it's my favorite thing I've ever worn!) and loved the experience I had at the Springfield location. I know it's not the fanciest, classiest joint and it's not very hip to have a mass-produced wedding dress from a chain store, but it felt welcoming and accessible to me in a way that not many wedding industry businesses do.

I feel like the gulf is diverging rapidly between 'high-end wedding' and 'budget wedding.' The average wedding dress from a bridal boutique costs almost $2,000, while online stores offer much cheaper dresses. But while there are a lot of convenient and affordable options online, it doesn't give that experience of trying on different dresses and styles in front of your family and friends with the help of a knowledgeable consultant-- and you might not realize how different the dress looks in person than online until it's too late. 

And while secondhand or consignment bridal stores are an amazing option and I highly recommend them (I planned to visit one if my trip to David's Bridal didn't pan out), you won't have as many options for styles in your size if you have a specific vision or style preference like I did. David's Bridal makes the full experience of trying on wedding dresses in-store accessible to people who can't afford a designer gown. I don't like the idea of the 'bridal store' experience only being for the wealthy. But budget isn't the only reason it felt more inclusive to me.

My favorite thing about David's Bridal is their size-inclusiveness. Unlike many higher-end retailers, they have sample sizes in store in a wide variety of sizes. Many brides who visit fancy bridal stores can only hold a dress up to them and imagine what it looks like, or try it on with the whole back open and clipped into place. Typical sample gowns are often in designer bridal sizes 8-12, but that translates to something closer to street sizes 4 to 8. That leaves out a LOT of customers. Though things are changing, they haven't changed fast enough. 

Not only are David's Bridal dresses fairly true to size, they have samples in a wide variety of sizes. I wear a street size 10-12 and those are the dress sizes I tried on at David's-- and I was able to try on every dress in my own size except for one brand new dress that we pulled off the mannequin. Unlike many other bridal stores, David's Bridal doesn't charge more for plus sizes, offers all their dresses in sizes 0-30, and uses models of all sizes in their advertising and catalogs.  Although I didn't purchase a plus size dress from David's Bridal, a street size 10-12 is often considered plus at other higher-end bridal stores and would have much more limited options, especially within my small budget.  And it made me feel way better to know that I was shopping in a place that wouldn't turn away other people I love and care about if they were to shop there, too.

Like many chain stores, David's Bridal experiences and stores can vary between locations. I've heard some horror stories about the stores, and I also was warned not to use their alterations department (I didn't). But when I had my appointment at David's Bridal, I never felt excluded from making certain choices or uncomfortable with my body, never felt like a less valuable customer, and the consultants were only positive and enthusiastic. I can sometimes feel very self-conscious when shopping for clothes, but it was a great day with some of my favorite people and had good vibes only.

I do hope that they find a buyer and keep at least some stores open, because I'd really like other people to have a nice welcoming experience like I did!

[transbodydreams]

Things transwomen should think about before they start transitioning - clothes edition!

Okay, I'm a month into committing to transitioning, and one of the first things I've had to deal with is building a brand new wardrobe. I had a handful of feminine items, but nothing that was practical and nowhere NEAR enough to actually have something to wear every day! It's been really hit or miss so far - I do now have enough cute, wearable clothes that I could wear something different every day for a week, but that included buying at least as much stuff that didn't fit, was poorly made, or turned out to look terrible on me. I've had to entirely relearn how to shop for clothes and wade through a ton of confusing, contradictory information about sizes, fabrics, styles, and all of the things that make women's clothing so much more fun (and infuriating) than men's. These are a few of the key lessons I've learned that I wanted to share - hopefully someone will see this and not make at least some of the mistakes I made? 😏

Trying to build an entirely new woman's wardrobe all at once is f*cking expensive! Women's clothes cost more than men's in general, and bigger sizes cost more than smaller sizes - sometimes a LOT more, since often the sale prices you see online only apply to the smallest sizes. As a man I could walk into Old Navy or someplace like it and pick up a couple pairs of pants, 2-3 shirts, and some underwear for less than $75, but the equivalent women's basics at a will cost you anywhere from $100 to $200, even if you're shopping at a discount chain like Marshall's. You'll find better deals online, but still expect everyday clothes to cost you at least 25% more for even the most simple items, and don't even get me started on the cost of a really nice dress!

Set a budget and plan your purchases based on what you need, not just what you want. You need to start with basic FUNCTIONAL items like practical, wearable underwear (hose, panties, bras. etc.), season appropriate tops, leggings, skirts, dresses, and if winter's coming, don't forget sweaters and outerwear!

You really do need to know ALL of your measurements before trying to buy clothes - don't guess, you'll get it wrong! There are lots of online resources that tell you what and how to measure. Get yourself a measuring tape and write it all down! Oh, and good luck trying to figure out what a listed "bust" measurement means for a top or dress - does it mean underbust or chest or overbust or bust, because those are all different names for two different measurements 😒

You're going to want to throw out all of your boy clothes, but remember that some female things are just not going to fit you yet, no matter how badly you want them too. Pants are a good example, especially fitted jeans. Unless you're really lucky or you plan on wearing a padded girdle all the time, you probably don't have the butt or hips yet to make most women's jeans work. If you already have some men's slim-fit stretch jeans, for example, very few people will notice the difference from women's low waisted jeans (other than the fly going the wrong way) and they'll look better on you. Plus, some men's items can be repurposed to be worn in a more feminine way, so resist the urge to burn them all!

If you're only wearing your fem clothes at home you can afford to be a little impractical, but if you intend to start wearing them in public remember that you'll need practical stuff that you can wear to do mundane things like grocery shopping or going to work. Don't be that girl in the bodycon mini-dress and 6" platform heels in the produce section!

If there's someplace you feel comfortable going in person, you really should start by trying some things on in a store to get a sense of how things fit and what will work on your body vs what you WISH would work on your body. Online ordering is private and safe and awesome, but there's no telling if what you buy will fit or work for you. If you take the time to try on a bunch of things on for real first, at least you'll have a basic idea of what might work and what definitely won't.

Think about what you want your personal style to be, and try to be realistic about it. Much more than men's clothes, women's clothes are really designed for very specific body types, and no matter how much you wish you could pull off a look, you need to figure out what actually works for your body now. Are you thin enough or young enough to carry off that super cute ultra-stylish street and clubwear, or is it just going to make you look old and fat? Do you really have the hips and butt to pull off those booty shorts? Think about all the times you saw someone dressing inappropriately for their age or body type and cringed, and don't be that person. If your goal is to look good in those styles then figure out what you need to do for it to work for you, but don't waste all of your money buying things that don't look good now and won't fit when you achieve the body you're working toward. Patience, woman! You'll get there!

All that said, if you really feel great wearing things that aren't necessarily "right" for your body, then f*ck anyone who tries to judge you for it. You be you, girl!

Just because it says it's a size 12 doesn't mean it actually IS a size 12. Women's sizes vary a LOT depending on what brand you're buying or where you're buying it from, especially if they only use small/medium/large etc instead of numerical sizes. Find a store or brand that fits you consistently and use that as your gold standard. that way if you buy something from a different brand or store you can get a sense of whether their items are going to trend bigger or smaller.

Finally, a word about wish.com. Someone suggested this site, which is basically the Chinese version of Amazon, as a place to get some stuff really inexpensively, but it is definitely a buyer beware situation. The prices are jaw droppingly low, it's true (seriously, you can find just about anything for under $5!), but it's REALLY hit or miss, like you should expect at least a third of what you buy to be unusable. The sizes are all over the map - some items don't list a size chart at all, and in general everything is a size or two smaller than you would expect it to be, except when it's not. Plus, a lot of the less expensive stuff they have is really poor quality, and their shipping times and costs are RIDICULOUS! I ordered a bunch of cute summery things and not only did the shipping cost more than the items, it's taken so long for them to get here that it's now too cold for me to wear them anywhere except around the apartment with the heat on full blast! I love the site and will probably keep using it (who could resist getting 3 dresses, two tops, two pairs of heels, 2 pairs of leggings, and a couple of cute bras and panties for under $100, even including the exorbitant shipping and the likelihood that at least 4 of those items will be unwearable?) but do your homework and at least read the product info and reviews before purchasing! And remember, it's really easy to get a refund on wish, and given that they only ask you to return items that cost more than $25, all that cheap stuff is basically free to try if you're willing to wait 4-8 weeks for it!

[farmerlesbian]

On finding masc clothes while being fat, old navy often has pretty good pants in the women's section that are more androgynous but come in larger sizes and actually fit curvier bodies, and their men's button ups are pretty fun and fruity as well. King size is also a great plus size men's online store and they have a lot of really affordable options!

oh yes i was gonna add old navy but forgot to go check what sizes they carry. good to know you recommend it thank you! and king size as well!