Roaman’s Plus Size Fashion Line for Fall 2006
Career Wear
For those of you who are plus size catalog shoppers, you know Roaman’s traditionally offers a wide variety of plus size suits and career wear. You also know that these suits are typically not very fashion-forward, and are typically oriented for older women. So I’m pleased to report that Roaman’s is offering at least one suit that defies expectations. The Exquisite Lurex Tweed Skirt Suit has lovely teal satin trim, and is smartly tailored for the plus size figure. The dry-clean-only nature of the suit is irritating, and the faux-gold buttons are perhaps not ideal, but the buttons work well given the overall aesthetic of the suit. It’s not for the timid; this suit will get you noticed, and is selling for less than $70.
In the shoe department, special note must be made of the “Penny” studded flats with a pointed toe to elongate the leg, and some lovely embellishments. Unfortunately, Roaman’s is offering many ankle-cuff heels, which are not necessarily flattering on plus size women. The strap interrupts the flow of the leg and can emphasize a wide-ankle, so should be avoided unless you’ve already tried on the shoe and know it’s flattering. A better choice would be the “Phoebe” peep-toe slingbacks. If you can stand a 2.5inch heel, the elegant croco-textured leather will look great on your foot.
The Basics
For basics, plus size catalog shopping with Roaman’s can save you a lot of money. This season, Roaman’s is offering plus size stretch cotton shirts in a variety of modern stripes and colors, starting at $16.99 each. These plus size shirts have a flattering 3/4 length sleeve, and have a great 30″ hem length. When you’re on the go, you’re going to appreciate the stretch. And instead of yet another t-shirt, why not try the split neck mock henley tunic in a poly/cotton blend. It has 3/4 length sleeves, delicate button details, and a hem length of 30″. Plus, this plus size top is offered in a variety of richly saturated colors that are sure to flatter, and it’s on sale for less than $16 each.
Plus size women complain loudly that it’s hard to find bottoms. Especially good fitting plus size jeans. Roaman’s has a lovely wide leg, two front pocket pair of jeans with a great plus size silhouette. Even better, it’s made from a woven ramie/cotton/polyester/spandex blend, to ensure lightness and comfort. These plus size jeans are being sold in a dark sandblast and black – two very versatile colors. Remember, you can easily dress up dark denim for an evening on the town, or more formal looks. Best of all, this plus size jean is offered in average, petite, and tall, for less than $30. Roaman’s also has a pair of plus size slacks worth checking out. The Linda fit pant is offered in three styles: gaucho, bootcut leg, and straight leg. All three plus size options are made of a two-way stretch fabric for a smooth drape. It’s machine-washable, has a button fly front, and sits at the natural waist. This pant was designed with a plus size figure in mind, and sells for less than $30. Unfortunately, it’s only offered in average length – no petites or talls.
Trends
Roaman’s is typically behind the times when it comes to trends, but this Fall seems to be an exception to the rule. Picking up on the new 80s wave, where pinstripes and ruffles rule, Roaman’s is offering The Gatsby Collection. A well-fitted plus size pinstripe jacket, skirt, trousers, and gauchos, with just enough modernity to keep it from being clownish. The plus size trousers especially look promising, especially in the way-cool indigo. Unlike the Avenue’s putrid 80s-style offerings this Fall, Roaman’s plus size ruffled blouses are better tailored and more wearable. The Ruffle Blanca blouse mixes feminine ruffles and lace with some beautifully clean lines at the collar. They even pair it with an updated version of the 80’s pearl craze with their Faux pearl and chain necklace.
Outerwear
For outerwear, the Ã?¾ length leather coat is a steal at $99. Beautiful seaming, a notched collar, and rich colors give this plus size coat a moneyed look that’s difficult to find. The eggplant is particularly stunning, but the brown offers a softer, more classic look. And I am especially tickled by the brown leather gloves with the leopard faux fur trim!
Overall
There’s still plenty of frump at Roaman’s. It’s hard to turn a page without seeing some drapey mu-mu that makes you want to cover your eyes or cry. But every so often there are some plus size gems, and this season, it’s worth flipping through the pages to find them.
