How to Dress for New York Fashion Week Over a Size 10

It’s no secret that most designers don’t design with larger bodies. Although small advances have been made, such as the representation of all body types on the runways and a slow increase in the sizes sold, many brands are still firm in their decision not to increase their size. Designers like Hanifa’s Anifa Mvuemba (which goes up to size 3X) have said that it’s not difficult to offer a wide range of sizes, but that designers just don’t want to do it – despite knowing that the average woman in the United States States is size 16.

Personally, as a size 10 woman who deals a lot with the weight, figuring out how to build a wardrobe is an interesting thing for me. Yet some brands just know how to accommodate curves, whether it’s in their cuts or their impeccable tailoring. I spoke to Simi Muhumuza, a curvy content creator and stylist who wears a size 18 and is serious about looks. Here are some brands she buys and why.

Founded by Felisha Noel, New York-based brand Fe Noel pays homage to Grenada, the designer’s birthplace, with breezy vacation looks, but they’ve recently expanded into tailored, everyday pieces with the same craftsmanship found in their luxury resort staples is wide-leg pants and signature robes. Fe Noel is also available at shopbop.com

“Having seen a Fe Noel fashion show, I am impressed by her work and craft,” said Muhumuza. “She really puts so much care into the designs. Every piece is a favorite, but this one is special [chef’s kiss].” Size goes up to 14.

In 2018, Shaquille Ro and Nola McEachin launched the brand label, a range that includes crop tops lined with ostrich feathers and structured trousers. Muhumuza loves the brand label because of its rich colors and the line goes up to 4XL. Muhumuza says, “They offer beautiful silhouettes and a comfortable fit.”

your favorite? This feathered top pairs well with high-waisted pants.

Mriga Kapadiya and Amrit Kumar grew up in Toronto and moved to Bombay in 2010 to explore their roots. In India they were exposed to the different crafts of their culture and were inspired to create their own brand: NorBlack NorWhite.

“I’m really drawn to the playfulness of the designs, and I love that they’re not afraid to mix and match patterns and offer big and bold statement pieces,” says Muhumuza.

She suggests this dress for its roomy fit.

The Nigerian brand Andrea Iyamah of the same name includes swimsuits and even furniture. The line has developed a cult following, going up to a size 2X.

Muhumuza’s choice? This pleated jumpsuit.

Mara Hoffman needs no introduction. Beloved by Beyoncé, the CFDA designer brand uses curved sleeves and distinctive prints and patterns in its signature pieces. The brand has a section dedicated to extended sizing, going up to 3XL.

Muhumuza suggests this stretchy dress. “The designs are beautiful, yet very wearable and comfortable. My favorite piece changes every day, but this dress sits in my closet waiting to be worn,” she says.

Founded in 2019 by Michelle Adepoju, Kíléntár is a sustainable womenswear brand that captures the essence of a woman and is rooted in African history. Muhumuza recently met the designer and adds, “The dedication to beading and corset silhouettes is truly wonderful to see.”

your favorite piece? This hand-threaded and hand-dyed tiered skirt has a corset-like bodice that offers support for larger bodies.

Fumi the Label was founded by Fumi Egbon last year. The Canada-based brand has dresses with asymmetric details and pleated wide-leg pants that are loved by women of all sizes. Egbon knows a thing or two about designing for curves because she has a curvaceous figure herself.

“My relationship with this brand is personal now,” says Muhumuza. Her favorite piece is this ribbed knit dress, which has buttons throughout that allow the wearer to choose how much skin she wants to show.

Brooke H started Shop Thoughtless so women didn’t have to think too much about whether something would work for their body if they had curves or not.

“Everyone needs basics in their closets,” says Muhumuza. Her favorite piece is a silky set with an elastic waistband that makes the wearer feel comfortable and goes up to XXL.

Former WILDFOX co-founder and creative director Kimberley Gordon founded Selkie in 2007. You may know the brand from hers viral puff dresses that go up to a size 5X.

“The clothes they have are perfect when I’m trying to have a babydoll look,” says Muhumuza. Her favorite piece is a sheer bandeau puff dress.

Anifa Mvuemba may only be getting her flowers now, but she launched Hanifa in 2011 and always had inclusive sizes in mind. Your mark rises to a 3X.

“The brand exceeds all expectations every time,” says Muhumuza. Her favorite piece is this mesh corset dress covered in feathers and beads.

Muhumuza and I share many of the same favorite brands, like Hanifa, Fumi the Label and Fe Noel, all of which have signature pieces in my wardrobe. There are some other brands that I love that may not extend their sizes past a 14 or 16, but they fit my size 10 body really well and fit my curves.

Founded in 2016 by Alexia Elkaim, Miaou recently increased his size to 4XL and worked with model Paloma Elsesser to ensure the fit was just right. This brand makes sexy, affordable clothing for curves, from their signature corsets to mini skirts. Although I don’t like miniskirts, I would wear one of Miaou’s any day.

Founded in 2008 by Adrian Norris and Edwina Forest, this Aussie brand plays with lots of cut-out silhouettes. The collection includes pieces like blazers and corsets that fit great and suit my small waist and larger hips.

Inspired by her travels, Andrea Lieberman created ALC in 2009. I recently wore this top with cargo pants to New York Fashion Week and got so many compliments. The brand’s pieces hug curves and are flattering. ALC is also notorious for its pleated pieces.

Even after years, ASOS remains a go-to place for on-trend pieces that I want to add my own flair to. I especially love the wide leg pants and outerwear at an affordable price.

Rouhi is a UK-based brand that prides itself on being a “unique blend of experiences, moods, colors and creations”. I fell in love with her after seeing her on Muhumuza. I got the oversized blazer of my dreams from Rouhi and the brand recently expanded with a plus size collection.