Why aren’t more designers embracing the curvaceous lines of the plus size woman? Well, Rachel Pally has rocked it. She offers pieces that are fashion forward, youthful, and fresh. The colors are vibrant, the designs are on trend, and the fabrics are supple. So, designers take notice. It’s no longer about covering her body, it’s about dressing her beautiful curves. We wonder, why aren’t more top designers creating lines for the plus size woman? Plus size clothing, when it looks good, flies off the shelves. What does that tell you? That women of all sizes want to be stylish and fashion forward. How pleased are the plus sized women of America with the fashion choices they are given? We would love to have some feedback on this issue, so if you have any thoughts - don’t hesitate.

Isn’t it the best feeling when you come across a new designer that you love? Sometimes you want to keep it all to yourself, and other times you want to shout it from the rooftops. Well, we want to shout it out. Wild2Watch bags are an extraordinary find. You will immediately fall in love the very second you look into the animal’s eye. The artist, Kevin Gebhard, has managed to capture the spirit and essence of these beautiful animals. The best part about his collection is that he donates a percentage of the proceeds to help the animals. His foundation works with conservation groups to protect these creatures whose habitat is growing more and more threatened. So, not only do you get to look good when you carry this exquisite clutch, but you get to feel good too. For an everyday piece, the totes can’t be beat.

Wouldn’t we all love to don this airy little cover-up and bikini. Can’t you just see yourself walking down to a lounge chair somewhere in the fabulous Caribbean wearing this perfect cover-up from Melissa Odabash? So, why can’t I get past the fact that its $240? For some absurd reason I have a threshold for cover-ups that’s in the under $200 range.

I can even come up with several reasons why it is a good purchase:

1. I will wear it all vacation and a lot in the summer.
2. It will be in style for years.
3. It’s a special piece that will boost my poolside confidence.

Foolishly, I will spend hours trying to find a cover-up that is similar but less expensive, and probably will not be nearly as good. So, my advice to you - if you don’t have a price issue here, buy this ultra fabulous cover-up. You will be the envy on the beach and by the pool. If it is too much to spend, there are other options. Several stores are having major sales right now and you can usually find a cute eyelet dress or cotton tunic that will look great for the summer.

Beau Soleil eco-friendly tote

Is it bad if a cute bag is encouraging us to do the right thing when it comes to the environment? In our defense, maybe seeing this bag was our “ah ha” moment. (In the New Year we promise to try to be more environmentally friendly, especially if we get to carry this cute bag!) On a more fashion forward note, this bag is a fresh looking tote. It has a nautical feel to it, so it looks great with reds, whites, and blues. Think Jackie O meets eco-friendly.

Next week, we will be reporting directly from the runways of fashion week. The Style Observer will be focusing on: how to maintain an updated look without being devoured by the too trendy. We will report to you the pieces that you should add, and how to work them in with what you already have. We’ll be getting a look into the fashion crystal ball, so you can plan appropriately for seasons to come. Learn more at MB Fashion Week

This is the perfect time of year to grab some really well priced items for summer. Some people shy away from the sale racks, because they fear the items are passé. Rest assured, that’s not always the case. If you stay away from the ultra-trendy stuff, you can usually get quality merchandise at a very reasonable price. It’s a lot easier to do this search from your computer. So, you don’t have to endure the messy picked-over look that the sale pieces have in the stores. Happy hunting and gathering, ladies.

Tory Burch’s new collection has such a refreshing quality to it. We can practically taste the salt water in the air just by looking at the line. Filled with brilliant blues, cool greens, and crisp whites, the collection will keep us cool on even the steamiest of days. Her pieces tend to be easy to work with; basically fuss-free. Isn’t that what women want? Pieces that don’t require a ton of closet time trying to pull it all together.

The BOLD colors of spring are a welcome change from the usual palette of springs past. It’s all about bright blues, eye popping pinks, lush grass greens, and lemony yellows. All you need to determine is how bold you want to be. You can go all over bold, or add a simple splash of color. For a subtle look, pair a brightly colored top with a pair of white jeans. For the daring, go for a dress in a lively hue. Pull it all together with a fun clutch.

A trend that stands the test of time, patent leather is still hot for spring. Designers continue to love the shiny shoe, and this season they’ve even added a pop of color to the stem. A black patent pump with a green heel creates a fresh feel. Patent isn’t only reserved for black; all colors are not only acceptable, but also encouraged. If you’re more of a neutral lady, then a flashy nude is perfect. So, whether you’re embracing the bold colors or the flesh tones - pair it with a patent.

Versace’s Spring 2008 line is a departure from the usual over-the-top designs of the past. The spring line is softer, embracing the movement of the female form. The fabrics move with the body as opposed to fighting it. Women will welcome the idea of clothing that isn’t overly binding. The line is wearable, and it maintains a sensual allure. It would be hard for women not to feel sexy, feminine, and polished in what Versace has to offer this spring.