Finding the Perfect Plus-Size Jeans for Black Women
Style, Comfort, and Confidence
Finding the right pair of jeans can be a journey, especially for plus-size Black women who want a fit that combines style, comfort, and confidence. However, the fashion industry is becoming more inclusive, offering a wider variety of options tailored to different body shapes and sizes. Here’s a closer look at the best approaches to finding the perfect plus-size jeans and some popular styles that cater to the unique curves of Black women.
Understanding Body Types and Fit
Before diving into styles, it’s essential to understand your body type and the fit that works best for you. Plus-size bodies come in many shapes, including pear, hourglass, apple, and rectangle. Knowing your body shape can help in choosing styles that enhance your features and provide a flattering fit. Here are some common fits and styles to consider:
- High-Waisted Jeans: These are often a favorite among plus-size women as they provide ample coverage and support for the stomach area while defining the waist. High-waisted jeans can create a smooth silhouette and offer comfort throughout the day.
- Bootcut and Flare Jeans: These styles balance out the proportions of the body, making them ideal for hourglass and pear shapes. The slight flare at the bottom adds room for your calves and creates an elongated look.
- Skinny Jeans: Many plus-size women love skinny jeans as they hug the legs and can be paired with various tops. Look for styles with a stretchy fabric that allows for movement and comfort.
- Wide-Leg and Palazzo Jeans: These styles offer a relaxed fit that provides comfort without compromising on style. They can be paired with fitted tops for a balanced look.
Fabric Matters
When shopping for plus-size jeans, the fabric plays a significant role in comfort and fit. Look for jeans with a blend of cotton and stretchable materials, like spandex or elastane. This combination helps the jeans retain their shape while allowing freedom of movement. Additionally, denim that contains a bit of polyester can enhance durability and maintain a crisp look wash after wash.
Embracing Color and Design
When it comes to color and design, plus-size Black women should feel empowered to experiment. While classic denim shades like dark blue, black, and light wash are versatile, don’t shy away from bold colors and patterns. Colored jeans or printed options can add a stylish touch to your wardrobe. Distressed denim styles are also trendy and can offer a fun, edgy look.
Brands Leading the Way
Several brands cater specifically to the needs of plus-size Black women, providing stylish options that embrace curves and sizes. Here are some brands to consider:
- Torrid: A well-known brand that offers trendy plus-size clothing, Torrid’s denim line features a variety of styles designed to fit and flatter curvy figures.
- ASOS Curve: ASOS offers a range of fashionable plus-size jeans that are on-trend and cater to various body types, ensuring everyone can find something they love.
- Old Navy: Known for its inclusivity, Old Navy offers a wide range of sizes and styles, including stylish plus-size jeans at affordable prices.
- Fashion Nova: This brand is popular for its trendy styles and figure-flattering jeans, specifically catering to curvy body types and offering a variety of fits.
- Levi's: Renowned for their jeans, Levi's has expanded its offerings to include plus-size options that maintain the quality and durability the brand is known for.
Tips for Finding the Right Fit
- Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on jeans before purchasing. Different brands and styles can fit differently, so it’s essential to find what flatters your body.
- Pay Attention to Sizing: Size can vary significantly between brands, so it can be helpful to check fit guides and reviews when shopping online.
- Look for Adjustable Features: Some jeans come with adjustable waistbands or additional stretch options, which can help achieve a better fit.
- Seek Out Tailoring: If you find a pair of jeans that fits well but needs minor adjustments, consider visiting a tailor. Even a small alteration can make a significant difference in the fit and comfort.
Celebrating Your Curves
Plus-size jeans for Black women should celebrate and showcase your curves. Fashion is about expressing individuality, and finding the right pair of jeans should empower you to feel confident and beautiful. Don’t hesitate to explore different styles, colors, and brands to discover what makes you feel the best. Embrace your body and style, and remember that you deserve to wear clothes that make you feel great. With the right pair of jeans, you can step out with confidence and style, ready to take on the world.
UNISA Honors Dr. Esther Mahlangu with Honorary Doctorate
Iconic designer Dr Esther Mahlangu recognised for her 'mathematical prowess'
Esther Mahlangu, a true visionary and cultural icon, stands as a beacon of inspiration in the world of art. Her remarkable contributions to the preservation and promotion of Ndebele art and culture have not only captivated audiences globally but have also left an indelible mark on the art world.
Born into a rich heritage of Ndebele artistic traditions, Esther Mahlangu's journey as an artist began at a young age, learning the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that define Ndebele artistry. With a deep-rooted passion for her culture and a relentless drive to share it with the world, Esther embarked on a mission to break boundaries and challenge stereotypes through her art.
Her groundbreaking work has transcended borders, with exhibitions and installations across the globe, from New York to Paris, showcasing the beauty and complexity of Ndebele aesthetics. Through her bold and dynamic creations, Esther Mahlangu has not only elevated Ndebele art to international acclaim but has also sparked conversations about cultural heritage, identity, and representation in the art world.
Esther Mahlangu's impact goes beyond the canvas; her dedication to community engagement and mentorship has inspired a new generation of artists to embrace their heritage and celebrate their roots. As a cultural ambassador and advocate for cultural preservation, Esther Mahlangu's influence extends far beyond the art world, resonating with audiences who are captivated by the depth and richness of Ndebele culture.
Esther Mahlangu deserves an honorary doctorate at UNISA for her outstanding contributions to the art world, specifically for her groundbreaking work in promoting Ndebele art and culture internationally.The Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics (Honoris Causa) was granted during a graduation ceremony hosted at University of South Africa (UNISA). Self-taught and without formal academic credentials, Mahlangu is renowned for her striking, oversized contemporary paintings that pay homage to her Ndebele roots. Beyond crafting original and avant-garde pieces inspired by her heritage, she generously imparts her wisdom and techniques to younger generations and the broader community. In her native village, Mahlangu has founded an art school where she instructs both children and adults in the traditional Ndebele painting style and beadwork.
Her prolific career as a South African artist, particularly within the realm of contemporary African art, has not only garnered international acclaim but also served as a powerful vehicle for cultural preservation and representation. By bestowing an honorary doctorate upon Esther Mahlangu, UNISA would be acknowledging her cultural impact, artistic excellence, and her role as a cultural ambassador for the Ndebele people.
Thebe Magugu Unveils 'Heritage III: Lobola Negotiations'
The 'Lobola' collection by Thebe Magu featuring South African Icons
Thebe Magugu's third installment of the iconic Heritage Capsule, "Lobola," is now available for pre-order exclusively on British Vogue, with shipping starting May 6, 2024. This collection delves into the centuries-old negotiation process of Lobola, symbolizing marriage arrangements where the groom's family offers cattle or money to the bride's family. It signifies symbolic value rather than ownership, varying across cultures.
Featuring 18 South African leaders from diverse fields like law, film, literature, business, sports, culinary arts, and art, this campaign showcases a modern interpretation of traditional customs. The Lobola Heritage Dress for women incorporates angel cuffs, a waist-defining belt, and pockets, while the Lobola Heritage Shirt for men boasts a boxy silhouette in lightweight satin with a unique keyhole neckline adorned with a Thebe Magugu coin button.
For those interested in delving deeper into these customs, an essay by Olwethu Leshabane on Lobola Negotiation and Wedding Customs of Southern Africa is available on www.thebemagugu.com alongside the collection
Africa has been home to many key mineral commodities such as gold and diamonds. Although our continent is overshadowed by a plethora of socioeconomic problems and exploitation by the west spanning over centuries, there is no denying that we have a world of wealth buried beneath our surface.
South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the DRC to name a few are major contributors to the mining industry. Over $1.1 billion is set aside annually for mining exploration in Africa, however, these exploration companies are seldom owned by our African people.
When we dig deeper into the world of the use of these luxury stones, we discover another uncanny truth about the billion-dollar jewelry industry, to which very few Africans have access. Africa contributes $230 billion to the global jewelry market yet we do not own even a third of jewelry manufacturing companies.
Amplifying the voices of African Jewelry designers
An open letter by Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) in 2020, called out the jewelry industry for appropriating and capitalizing on Black and African culture, whilst the voices of upcoming luxury jewelry designers remain underrepresented, and equally gatekeepers for opportunities and education for Black women.
Amid these challenges concerning the underrepresentation of Africans in the Jewelry making space, we have seen the emergence of more Black African female jewelers, whose voices have been amplified by pop culture and music industry leaders such as Beyoncé and Rihanna, who showcased their work in music videos and the Met gala in the year 2020.
The resurgent interest in African culture by pop and mainstream media has become an opportunity for designers like Adele Dejak and Thelma West to showcase their work to a wider audience. Here are the 6 African jewelry makers and designers to look out for in the year 2022.
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1. Hamethop- South Africa
Founded by Tsakani Mashaba, Hamethop is a fashion and accessories brand that explores ideas of contemporary art, time, architecture, and place with stylish adornments. Click here to visit their website.
2. AAKS- Ghana
Founded Akosua Afriyie-Kumi with the goal of introducing the world to her favourite weaving techniques by the women of Ghana. Click here and go shopping.
3. Khokho- Swaziland
social entrepreneur Philippa Thorne, handbag designer and consultant Sapna Shah, formerly of Rag & Bone and Calvin Klein, and skilled artisan professional and master weaver, Zinhle Vilakati.
Visit their website here
4. Bush Princess- Kenya
Founded by Charlotte LeFebvre
All bags are handmade in Kenya and 100% ethically sourced high-quality material. Purchase your bag here
5. Zashadu- Nigeria
Founded by Zainab Ashadu,
Zashadu is a leading Nigerian sustainable luxury brand, that specializes in hand-crafted leather pieces. Get shopping here