In my early twenties, I worked part-time at Penningtons, one of the few Canadian retail clothing stores that carried 14+. If I wanted to find trendy, age appropriate pieces for my wardrobe, I would look to the company’s MXM brand (who remembers MXM?!); it was limited, but I always tried to make it work. Fast forward ten years – I’m now in my early thirties, MXM is no more, and the options for trendy, plus size fashion are seemingly endless (this deserves a happy dance).

On the journey to a more stylish wardrobe, I’ve come across some wonderful local shops. Topping my list of favourites is Your Big Sister’s Closet. If you live in Toronto and have yet to stop by this boutique, you must get your fashion-loving butt over there asap! Shop owner, Karen, will make you feel like a million bucks, at a price that won’t break the bank! During my recent visit, I fell in love with a beautiful black and white knit poncho. I saw it in the window display as I drove by en-route to finding my parking space, and knew I had to try it on as soon as I stepped inside. So I did. And it was every bit as wonderful as I had imagined it would be! There was no doubt that this piece would make its blog debut along with me in my first ever fashion photo shoot. I’ve styled the poncho in three different ways to showcase its versatility for the fall; from casual to night on the town. Which look is your favourite?

Shop Look 1:  Jacket: Reitman’s Plus Size Faux Leather Jacket (similar) / Skirt: Reitman’s Denim Skirt / Boots: Addition Elle High Heel Boot (similar) / Addition Elle Opaque Stretchy Tight / Earrings: Ardene

Shop Look 2: Leggings: Addition Elle Cotton Spandex Legging / Shoes: Ardene White Leather Pointy Flats / Ring: Ardene  / Bracelets: Addition Elle / Sunglasses: Avon

Shop Look 3: Pants: Torrid (similar) / Jacket: Old Navy Peacoat (similar) / Shoes: Attitude