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"My confidence has changed but my options haven't, which is disappointing." ~ Deputy Beauty Editor Lara Capon, Cosmopolitan UK
Last week, I found out that designer Brandon Blackwood launched a clothing collection called Studio, that included plus sizes. To say I was hyped is an understatement.
I'm a Gen X streetwear girl who loves to mix street style with a feminine soft vibe. I have been known to rock a pearl necklace and tulle skirt with a hoodie and sneakers. And Brandon Blackwood gives me that vibe.
Blackwood is an American designer of color whose End Systemic Racism tote bags are still sought after. I own one myself. Black designers such as Blackwood and Telfar Clemens are iconic in Black and Brown culture and deserve ALL the flowers.
I love Clemens' apparel collections but sadly, they only go up to 2XL so there's no way I can fit into his pieces. My fashion soul cries every time I open up an email and see new pieces dropping. So when I heard Blackwood launched apparel, I thought, maybe, just maybe, it would have a size range that expanded beyond a 2X.
And then one of my fave influencers, Sarah Chiwaya aka Curvily, wrote a review of the new collection for Refinery21. That got me really excited. I happen to know Sarah personally as she was a previous guest on my NAAFA-produced fashion web series Ahead of the Curve and is a supporter of size inclusivity in fashion.
However, after reading the article, I was yet again disappointed. The collection ends at a size XXXL (3XL). Sarah is always very candid and upfront in her reviews and while her write-up is an excellent read as always, I am disappointed in Blackwood and the missed opportunity for him to accommodate customers above a size 3XL.
The designer said in the article:
"Our customer range is insane. It’s such a blessing to have our brand celebrated by so many different people, regardless of size. I wanted [Studio] to feel inclusive. I didn’t want anyone turned away because they couldn’t find their size or something they didn’t want to wear. The collection has something for everyone."
*raises hand* I cannot find my size. Am I not included in "everyone"?
As someone who grew up fat and loved fashion, I worked hard to be confident in my skin while navigating a world that made me feel like I wasn't worth taking space, wearing fashionable pieces and just existing. Confidence became my armor and helped me to express myself through fashion. But I still felt limited because I did not have access to clothing like my thinner counterparts.
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| Studio by Brandon Blackwood Draped Jersey Dress, $75 (I would get this in every color if it were in my size!) |
It's gotten slightly better decades later but still, as a size 4X, my options continue to be limited. So the term "inclusive" became a beacon of hope for me at first. I would see a brand say they were size inclusive and I would get excited as that meant to me that they carried my size. And most often, I would be disappointed to learn that they didn't carry my size.
Blackwood says he wanted his collection to feel inclusive. What does that mean exactly if you're stopping at a size 3XL?
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| Studio by Brandon Blackwood Ribbed Zip Hoodie, $45 (I would get this entire look in every color if it were in my size!) |
I realize the term "size inclusive" has become a buzzword and it seems as if it has become this subjective term that brands define to mean whatever suits their purpose. A brand will now use the term if they carry a full size range that includes straight sizes and plus sizes (0 to 3X).
But plus sizes do not stop at a size 3X.
Last time I checked, inclusive means ALL. So size inclusive means ALL sizes. However, I'm a size 26/28. Does this mean I don't exist?
Shoot, there are some brands who only offer up to a size 20!!! And the average American woman is a size 18. SMH. Make it make sense.
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| Studio by Brandon Blackwood Ruched Maxi Skirt, $45 (I think this may actually fit me but it would be a tight fit.) |
It's no secret that the plus size apparel section is profitable. There is money to be made because we need clothes! Yet it's a sector that remains largely untapped. The proof is in the data. Sarah Chiwaya wrote in her recent blog post:
All of the extensive market research done in the industry shows that not only is the plus size market the most populous (over 67% of women are in the plus size range), it is growing at twice the rate as the straight size market. And that growth not starting from scratch, either: The plus size market is already valued at $541.35 billion – yes, that is billion with a b – and it is forecasted to grow to over $727 billion USD in the next five years alone. The potential is massive and largely untapped, with only 20% of clothing made offered in sizes that fit the majority of women.
So what's really interesting is that the average woman in the United States is a size 18. And plus-size women make up more than half the market. And yet, plus size clothes only make up 19% of all apparel on the market. The fashion brands are not actually meeting the needs of their customers.
So that means plus size clothing has only grown 1% since 2022 in the apparel market. **jaw drop**
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| Studio by Brandon Blackwood Convertible Slit Maxi Dress, $60 (I would get this in every color if it were in my size!) |
And even now, I still see brands, the media and content creators/influencers still misusing the term size inclusive.
Here's an idea... Can we stop using the term 'size inclusive' altogether?
As someone who is a size 4X, when a brand says they are size inclusive and I then see they only offer up to a size 3X, it makes me question where I belong in this narrative and industry.
It creates a false sense of inclusion within our own community! Inclusive means noBODY left behind but the misuse of the term is doing just that by excluding women over a size 3X.
Clothing is a basic need that everyone should have access to. If I need a suit for a job interview or a dress for an event, I should be able to shop for those things just as plus size women under a size 3X do. My money holds the same value as theirs.
I want to implore brands to not make assumptions about the plus size customer. We are shopping in real time because we need clothing now and not 50 pounds from now. Plus size bodies are not temporary. And however you feel about fatness, that should not affect how you run your business, if you want to make money.
Brands, pls take a cue from Universal Standard who offers a size range of 00 to 40. Universal Standard co-founder and CEO, Polina Veksler told Forbes in August 2022:
"Universal Standard has been growing about 60% over the past year, and we hope to be on a similar trend going forward. The fashion industry said a profitable inclusive-sizing brand simply wasn’t possible. We’ve been able to show that Universal Standard has become a profitable business as the world’s most inclusive-sizing brand."
I did fit modeling for US when they first expanded to a size 40 and I can tell you, they focus on fit, quality and design. They always asked for my feedback and always listened to what I had to say. This is why their customer loyalty is high.
Yes, it is an investment to offer a wider size range but let me tell you, if you invest in us by listening to what we want and offering great quality and design that fits, we will be opening our wallets with the quickness.
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| One of my fit sessions at Universal Standard in 2018 SIP Alexandra Waldman, thanks for everything! Miss talking to you. |
While Sarah did say in her review that the fit is generous on many of Blackwood's pieces and their 3XL may fit a size 26, that's still not enough to cater to all the women being left out in fashion, including myself.
We shouldn't have to try to make the clothes fit us by seeking out stretchy fabrics and wearing a smaller size that may be uncomfortable. It's the brand's responsibility to make sure the clothes fit US because at the end of the day, we are paying for you to get it right by buying your pieces.
Listen, this ain't nothing new. I've been talking about this for years and there are others, most notably my sis Saucye West, a trailblazer in this community/industry, who created the #fightforinclusivity movement to push brands to expand sizing.
I'm holding out hope for you, Brandon Blackwood. Because I truly want to support you and give you my money, as I am sure many women out there want to.
Special thanks to Sarah for all she does in our community and industry! Pls go follow her on Instagram here and check out her blog here. And watch her on Ahead of the Curve here.
Are you above a size 3X? What do you think of the term size inclusive and its constant usage? Let me know below in the comments!
"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do." - Brené Brown
In September 2020, after a photo shoot for Latinx Heritage Month for Lane Bryant, as I looked at my images, I noticed that the lump on my right inner thigh looked larger.
I was taken aback. For years, I've always been self conscious of that lump and learned to love her slowly because it's a part of my body. Despite not loving that part of me 100% (it's a lifelong process), I tried daily to not let my insecurities seize my life and stop me from wearing what I wanted, even if it was visible. But it was extremely hard to fully let go of those insecurities.
It would peek out when I wore a bathing suit, modeled above the knee styles and wore shorts. But when that lump grew larger, my life changed.
I spent two years trying to find out why.
I was in constant pain, had limited mobility, always tired and no appetite. Yet I gained weight and that lump grew larger.
I switched doctors frequently because I was told to get weight loss surgery and could not get a proper diagnosis or find a doctor who could see past my weight and actually treat me as other patients.
I was reminded how most of the medical community looks first and makes a diagnosis by judgment before they even truly look further to see what's wrong. They believe that being fat is always the problem and losing weight is always the cure. And that's not always the case. I'm proof of that.
My labs showed that I'm anemic with high levels of inflammation in my blood. That's it. I'm not diabetic, cholesterol is fine and I don't have any of the issues these doctors assumed I had because I'm fat. The third primary care physician I saw, sent me to get a venous Doppler ultrasound on my legs to check for blood clots. They didn't find anything.
It took the vascular specialist a minute to look at my leg and tell me it was lymphedema. And this is when I learned more about this disease that doesn't have a cure and would change my life. I learned more about the lymphatic system and its importance. And realized I had to make some changes in my life.
First things first, I have to wear compression garments for the rest of my life. Second, I have to use a compression pump daily on my legs and feet (60 minutes per leg). Thankfully, these two things will help the size of my leg decrease by moving the lymphatic fluid to up and out of my body + keep my swelling down. Once my leg size decreases, I will go to Decongestive lymphedema therapy (DLT) where I will do exercises, learn how to bandage my legs and other key things I need to learn for self-care.
I don't get hungry often because I am in constant pain + I'm perimenopausal (another thing to deal with at the same time!) so I am now eating 6 small meals versus 3 regular meals. I have to ensure I get some protein and watch my sugar. Processed foods and sugars cause me to have flare-ups where my swelling is so bad and I feel so tired. So I'm exploring a new way of eating (I'm still trying to go gluten-free, ugh) because I have to eat foods that are mostly anti-inflammatory.
I have to keep myself impeccably clean and while I was a clean freak before, I'm talking 2 showers a day plus constant cleanliness to ensure I don't cause any skin infections, most notably cellulitis. My skin is always dry and I bruise easily. Thank goodness for First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream and Eucerin, who both make amazing fragrance-free lotions/creams that are great for severe dry skin.
I'm always tired and don't sleep well sometimes. But on a good night, if I can get my 8 hours of sleep, I have a good day ahead of me because sleep helps.
I also have to be mindful when I travel. No more direct flights over 3 hours. I have to make sure I am not sitting for long periods of time. Elevate my legs. Move. But also be mindful of the type of exercise I do.
No more saunas at the spa. I have to avoid extreme heat and cold temperatures.
BUT. I can't really complain because while there is no cure for lymphedema, I can live. I just need to make some adjustments. However, the mental side of all of this has been hard.
To go from being a person who was free as a bird, traveling the world and being fancy to walking with a rollator and monitoring everything I do with my body, is a mindf**k. I love jeans but my leg has gotten so big that right now I can't wear pants unless it's stretch leggings and yoga pants. Sometimes I don't even know my size because my legs are different sizes while my waist is still the same size it was years ago.
Therapy has been a godsend. My therapist has seen me through the loss of my dad, my brother, niece, my mom and best friend Herman... then my own childhood trauma... and now this.
My body feels like the enemy. My mind and body are definitely not in sync. However, this diagnosis has also made me appreciate my body more. I know that sounds weird after saying my body feels like the enemy so hear me out.
I spent most of my life so self-conscious of the lump on my right thigh to the point where it dictated what I wore and how I moved through life. And honestly, that is no way to live. We should all give life 100% and just dive in. Show up for yourself and show out. If I have learned anything after losing so many people, it's this... we never know when it's our time and once you spend your time, you cannot get that time back. That's why it's so important to be present and not be so focused on the future. How ironic is that? We spend our present moments, which we have control over, worrying about the future, which we don't have control over. We never know what's going to happen next but we know what is happening right now in this present moment.
For me, I am going to spend my present moments taking care of my health while being around the people who bring me joy and make me laugh. I'm starting to reconnect with people and that makes me happy. I will continue to heal and strengthen my self-love in the body I am in now. I know that my body will change but there's nothing wrong with loving it while you're in transition. When you love your body as it is now, you will want to be good to your body in whatever that means to you. A Before is not a bad thing. To me, life is a state of transition where we are constantly evolving and changing. Nothing is ever final.
I personally don't like to say "Before" and "After". I like to say "Back then", "Now", "What I look forward to" while knowing that my body is beautiful at any stage of my life because it is mine and it has done some incredible things. It's not just a vanity thing. Sure, I want to look cute but my body is not just meant to be looked at and admired. It is also meant to take me on my life's adventure and do things that I thought were impossible. And believe me, size or weight has nothing to do with what adventures I can go on. It is all up to me and the stage of the journey that I'm on.
I will never hold back from living because of a body part. Never. Once my leg gets smaller, I will appreciate that lump because it will never hold me back from living or being cute. I'm living for me and not the world. Let the world stare or say what they will. All the validation I need comes from me.
The last thing my mom said to me before she passed was "Marcy, you have to take care of yourself. Please." She always felt I took care of others but did not take care of myself in the same way. So, Mom, no worries... I am taking care of myself. I got the memo. (Gosh, I miss her so much!)
Stay tuned as I will continue to share my lymphedema journey on this blog. It's hard to be transparent but I hope my story will help someone on their journey. I got tired of hiding, to be honest. I never want to feel ashamed or negatively about myself ever again. This is me and I am making it my life's mission to show up for myself always.
My words of wisdom in this very moment: Always be your own advocate, ask questions and stand up for yourself. Fight for yourself. You are worth it.
"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Happy New Year, my favorite people! Now that the holidays are over and a new year is upon us, we can exhale and move forward. The holidays are tough for a lot of folks, me included. But we made it. We're still standing.
January is a big month for diet companies and gyms. They come at us hard with this whole 'New Year New Me' message and they make a ton of money, profitting over people buying into this notion that we have to lose weight to have a better year ahead.
I am all for people doing what they want with their bodies and I am also a big believer in movement for ALL bodies. But I also want to stress that your body, regardless of its size and shape, is incredible NOW. Our bodies enable us to live, even when we have limited mobility and disabilities. We are still able to breathe and experience life in the best way we can. I am not here to judge because I believe we are all works of art as we are right now.
I was reading a post on IG where the author was talking about how we focus on losing in the New Year, when we really should be focusing on gains. And that just made a lightbulb in my head turn on. I am a big believer in turning negatives into positives because changing my mindset has changed my life and gotten me thru some of the hardest moments I have ever experienced.
So this year, I am going to focus on what I gain while giving myself grace to know that I shouldn't overload myself with a long list of what I want to do and set myself up for failure. I am training myself to slow down and focus on 1 to 2 things at a time so I can follow through and get things done. I find when I focus on a zillion things (which is how my busy brain works), I tend to not finish everything I started and it gets so frustrating. I feel defeated and then give up entirely.
Yes, I know it's hard to believe as many people think I am someone who has my shit completely together but in all honesty, I have my moments too. I plan to create to-do lists every 3 months that are short and doable but things that I want to do and know I can follow thru on. It may be simple tasks like crocheting a dress for my niece but working on a project like that takes time, patience and consistency, which are things I want to strengthen within myself.
The biggest lesson I learned last year was the importance of showing up for myself and others. Showing up for myself meant:
- Being proactive in my self care, including taking care of my body physically by continuing to find a doctor that gets me and adding more joyful movement in my life to help with my lymphedema, as well as make me feel better and stronger.
- Being my own advocate and not being afraid to speak up for myself
- Being kind to myself and not beating myself over saying no or not doing something that I didn't feel comfortable doing (sometimes it's good to go out of your comfort zone but if you feel it's really not right, it ain't right.)
- Listen to my gut/inner voice. It is never wrong.
- Doing something nice for myself daily, even if it was something as simple as painting my nails, watching one of my favorite movies, giving someone an authentic compliment or holler on social media to let them know they are giving me life (lol) or even giving a hug to my 4-yr old niece Ashley and watching Paw Patrol with her.
- The more things you do for yourself that make you happy will build your self love and make you look forward to being present for more moments to come. It will also make you feel grateful for those moments and your life. It will remind you that you do have positive things in your life that can make you happy. Gratitude is a great way to be reminded that life is not all bad.
- Following through on things I start because it will remind me of the importance of honoring my commitments to myself and others.
Going into 2023, I am still working on this - I am a work in progress. What counts is that I am trying.
I am also someone who believes in helping people, including clothing swaps and donations. I want to manifest that into larger scale things where I am reaching more folks, mainly my plus size sisters/brothers/persons over a size 3X because we are often overlooked in so many sectors that limit us in accessing things we need for everyday life. (If anyone out there wants to partner up, pls message me!)
I also want to be open to new relationships and engaging more with people but I am treading carefully since this is not my norm. Venturing into new territory is scary but I am doing it one step at a time, while giving myself grace. I have met some incredible people in my life and want to reconnect with them.
That's all we can do for ourselves, one day at a time. We only have one life to live and after losing so many loved ones, grief and loss have taught me to appreciate my own life more. This is how I honor them... by honoring myself.
So this year, my goals are not weight loss or being a new me. My goals are what I can gain in my life to be happier, have more peace and live in gratitude as I am right now because I am pretty awesome just as I am.
If you want to lose weight, do you. You do what makes you truly happy. But just know that just because your outer changes, doesn't mean your inner will. You are YOU and that is an amazing thing. You just have to see that for yourself and lean into your beauty and who you are at whatever stage of your journey you're on.
The world is always waiting for me and for you... it is up to us to take that first step and see what's out there meant for us.
Comment or email me if you need inspiration or a quick holler. I got you! 2023, here we come!
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~ Marcy xo
Shop Small: 10 Plus Size Brands to Shop on Cyber Monday That Offer Above a Size 3X
Monday, November 28, 2022
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| I'm wearing the Francesca Dress in Magenta from Igigi - LINK |
I'm a big supporter of small businesses and indie designers. These folks have kept me looking fly for many years when big brands were not offering my size or styles that I liked. Small businesses always put a personal touch into their brands, including being accessible from a customer service aspect and even including a thank you card in your package.
There are so many lists out there of Cyber Monday sales that include major brands and I wanted to give some shine to small businesses today because Small Business Saturday was not enough. Here's 10 plus size brands that go that extra mile in offering an extended size range so those of us over a size 3X can look cute and feel cute too!
1. Renee Cafaro Atelier | Public Label
What they offer: Luxury clothing that doesn't break the bank. And their fit is on point.
Sizes: 16 to 32 and custom
Promo: 30% Off Entire Order* with code CYBER – this includes pre-order/made to order items.
Fine Print: Does not apply to gift cards or Renee Cafaro Atelier Couture requests. Valid until Nov 29, 11:59pm EST
LINK: https://www.rcapubliclabel.com/
2. Igigi
What they offer: Igigi has been around for YEARS and is the place to go when you are looking for a dress for any occasion. They now offer custom, not just by measurements, but also in length, sleeves and more.
Sizes: 12 to 32 and custom
Promo: 20% off off select styles with code BLACKFRIDAY through Wednesday, December 1, 2022
LINK: https://www.igigi.com/
3. Wray
What they offer: fine art inspired clothing line that are focused on both form and function. Every garment is created ethically at fair-trade operations in India, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Peru.
Sizes: XXS to 6XL
Promo: 25% off your purchase with code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout.
LINK: https://wray.nyc/collections/black-friday
What they offer: Fat-friendly message tees that make a statement, vintage and original clothing and accessories
Sizes: 1X to 5X
Promo: 20% off sitewide with code BFCM22 at checkout.
LINK: https://proudmaryfashion.com/
5. Hey Mavens
What they offer: Intimates and sleepwear in cute colors, luxe fabrics (think lace and velvet) and quirky prints
Sizes: XXS to 10XL
Promo: 25% off orders $75 or more + get free shipping on every flat rate domestic order with code BFSHIP at checkout.
LINK: https://www.heymavens.com/
6. C’EST D
What they offer: Unique, style-forward clothing with the mission of unapologetically designing fashion for all types of bodies and ultimately providing ‘choices’ that are missing right now in fashion industry
Sizes: XXS to 6XL
Promo: 20% off sitewide + free shipping on orders of $180 and more. No code needed. Prices reflect the 20% off.
LINK: https://www.cestd.com/
7. Loud Bodies
What they offer: Stylish and comfortable clothing that’s ethically produced and sustainable
Sizes: XXS to 10XL
Promo: Up to 50% off sitewide. No code needed. Prices reflect discount.
LINK: https://loudbodies.com/sale/
8. Nerecina
What they offer: Made-to-order, sustainably produced formalwear that makes a statement
Sizes: Custom
Promo: Cyber Weekend Sale: 25% OFF everything! Automatic discount at checkout, no code needed.
LINK: https://nerecina.com/
What they offer: premium activewear with a focus on making products with high quality materials, style, fit and functionality
Sizes: L to 7X
Promo: 20% off your purchase with code BF20 + free shipping on orders $100+ and free returns
LINK: https://superfithero.com/
10. Alpine Curves
What they offer: Plus size clothing and gear that fit the everyday woman for her outdoor lifestyle. (INCLUDING THE CUTEST SKI STUFF)
Sizes: 1X to 6X
Promo: $10 off $50, $15 off $75, $25 off $100, $50 off $200. No code necessary. Discount applied at checkout. Free shipping on all orders of $99 or more.
LINK: https://www.alpinecurves.com/default.asp
What are some of your favorite small plus size clothing brands and indie designers that offer above a size 3X? Please let me know in the comments below!
10 Black Friday / Cyber Monday 2022 Sneaker Deals That You Need to Check Out
Sunday, November 27, 2022
It's my favorite time of the year! I live by the rule, "Don't pay regular price" and I mean it. Even if an item is not on sale, I will sign up for emails, texts, ravens... I don't care. I want that welcome 15% - 20% off deal. I live to be ballin' on a budget. This is why my brother always told me I was the richest broke person he knew, lol.
So many people ask me where to shop and what deals are out there so I decided to put together a list of my must-have sneaker sales during this hot deal weekend so you can clear out your Christmas gift list and treat yourself to something dope. I know I did!!!! (Yeah, I went a little crazy and have 4 pairs of sneakers coming my way... YIKES!) But I got some great deals and still managed to stay under my budget. With that said, get ready to shop!
Pls note, I will update this tomorrow to include any Cyber Monday deals (if they have changed - brands tend to just extend the current deal and tack on a little extra 10% or free gift on Cyber Monday).
#1: FILA
Promo: 50% off sitewide. So this means some styles are like $30. Yes!!!! If you love chunky sneakers and colorful kicks, this is a deal not to be missed. No code needed. It's applied to the price already.
The Fine Print: Valid 11/25/22 12:00am EST through 11/29/22 3:15am EST only on FILA.com. Discount is shown on category & product pages for eligible styles and will be automatically applied at checkout. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotional pricing. All purchases are FINAL SALE and not eligible for return.
My Pick (yes, I bought these in the Coral Blush / Primrose Pink / White colorway, lol):
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| Women's Disruptor 2 Exp, Was $75, NOW $37.50 - LINK |
2: adidas
Pls note: the regular adidas site is offering 40% off sale and full price items with code CYBER at checkout.
Did you know that adidas has a store on eBay? And sometimes you get better deals there, which I found out this weekend. They are offering 50% off select items and the category is pretty vast. I bought a $75 track suit for my cousin for $25!!!! And scored these Stella McCarthy kicks I have been eyeing for a minute. They retailed at $250 and I got them for $75. I almost fainted. Best part? At checkout, eBay offered me an additional 20% thru their own deal on brands!!!! YESSSSS! Being able to stack coupons is rare so Merry Christmas to meeee!
Code: 50OFFADI - it is automatically applied at checkout but just in case you have to enter it.
The fine print: Expires November 28, 2022. Max discount $1,000. Limit one use per transaction (or cart) while supplies last. (So you can use it on more than 1 order, if you decide to go back before the promo is over!!!)
Pls note: the regular adidas site is offering 40% off sale and full price items with code CYBER at checkout.
3: Vans
I found out recently that Vans offers wide width sneakers and you can create custom kicks and clothing. So this deal is extra meaningful for those like me with wide feet who like unique shoes.
Promo: $20 off all shoes + 40% off all apparel and accessories. Not a deep deal on shoes but still meaningful, especially if you want to get some custom sneakers.
The fine print: Promo auto applied at checkout. Not valid on outlet items.
4. Skechers
Another great brand that offers wide widths and has some cute styles. My faves are the Arch Fit and Skech-Air - so comfy and cute. Their BFCB deal is 30% off your order with code BF2022 at checkout.
The fine print: *Offer valid 11/25/22 through 11/27/22 on select regular priced items at www.Skechers.com. Enter code BF2022 at checkout. Not valid at other stores and websites carrying Skechers products. Offer excludes Slip Ins, Massage fit, Hyper Craze Bounce, select accessories, prior purchases, test styles, sale or clearance items, gift cards, applicable taxes, and shipping charges. Cannot be combined with other offers or promotions.
5. New Balance
Been in the game since 1906, as well as one of the few sneaker brands that are US-based and owned, people tend to sleep on New Balance because they are known to be more function and comfort than style. However, they have really stepped up their game style-wise in the last few years + this brand is podiatrist-approved. Gotta be good to your feet and they will be good to you. Because I personally know some folks who are dealing with toe infections, heel issues and yellow, banged up nails right now and I don't know about you but I'm not trying to go that route!!!! They also offer up to XX-wide widths. Yes!
Promo: 25% off shoes, 40% off clothing and accessories all Cyber Weekend.
The fine print: Offer valid on newbalance.com from November 24, 2022 through November 29, 2022. Discount applied in cart. Exclusions apply. Can't be applied to previous purchases or purchase of gift cards and cannot be redeemed for cash or used in combination with any other offer.
My pick:
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| Fresh Foam 680v7, WAS $79.99, NOW $59.99 - 25% off at checkout FINAL PRICE: $44.99 + free ship (available in reg and wide widths, sizes 5 to 12 in 3 colorways) LINK |
6. Nike:
I'll be honest, I'm not much of a Nike fan because I have always found their sneakers to be too narrow for me. But I wanted to include them on this list as I know many folks love the brand. I will admit the custom Nike by You feature has me intrigued but I am not sold on the fit to the point of spending money on a pair. For me, fit is everything because I take care of my feet. Under Men's, they have 19 styles in wide and extra-wide but they are not cute to me AT ALL, lol.
Promo: 25% off select styles that are up to 60% off here. Enter code CYBER at checkout.
7. Puma
I'm a fan but sometimes I get frustrated as a shopper because Puma will drop a new collection right on a sale day but then say it's excluded from the sale while promoting it alongside the sale. Not cool. Case in point, they just dropped their Paw Patrol collection and I was ready to buy some stuff for my niece Ashley for Christmas. But everything is not only regular price but excluded from the promo. No, thank you. I will wait.
On the upside, they have many styles under $50 that are cute. If you have wide feet, I suggest avoiding the leather styles and going for the suede ones. Puma tends to have a narrow fit but I have been able to wear the suede styles comfortably with a wide foot.
Promo: Up to 50% off + extra 30% off with code CHEER at checkout here.
8. Converse
Another brand I find narrow so I don't really wear them often. But my niece Angel is a fan. I just recently learned they offer a wide width custom option, which has me intrigued. I'm not completed convinced enough to buy a pair but will report back if I do.
Promo: Extra 40% off sale on selected styles with code CYBERWEEK at checkout. Ends 11/28/22 at 2:59AM EST.
9. Asics
Asics are so comfy and they are my top pick for sneakers to wear while I am exercising or doing anything active-related, including long walks.
Promo: 30% off almost everything with code CYBER at checkout.
Added bonus: Make a purchase anytime between 10/1 and 12/21 in-store or online, and receive a discount code on 12/22 to save $20 on any purchase of $75 or more, in-store or online.
10. Reebok
I have been meaning to try the Cardi B styles because they are CUTE. While they are excluded from promotions, they are marked down 40% AND the clothing goes up to a size 4X. Color me shocked.
Promo: 45% off full price styles + an extra 50% off sale styles. Use code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout.
BUT WAIT....
For Cyber Monday, they will be offering up 50% off reg priced items and 60% off sale items with code CYBERMONDAY and you can shop now if you sign up for their Reebok Unlocked program here.
So if I were you, I'd wait until tomorrow to shop or sign up for their Unlocked program!
My pick (my old school fave):
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| Freestyle Hi Women's Shoes (8 colorways avail), WAS $85, NOW $42.50 (after 50% off) LINK |
Notable mentions:
ASOS sells many sneaker brands and when they have a deal, it can be used on the sneakers too!
Promo: Up to 80% off markdowns + up to extra 30% off – surprise discount will be revealed at checkout. Enter code ALLIN at checkout to receive discount. Ends 2am EST on November 28, 2022.
My pick:
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| adidas Originals Forum Bonega sneakers (white with marble print colorway), WAS $120, NOW $60 + your surprise discount at checkout. LINK |
I discovered Solestop on a sneaker blog in 2020 and have been a loyal customer ever since. The Canadian-based company offers a vast selection of brands such as ASICS, New Balance, Hoka, Vans and adidas. Their prices are great and they ship fast. They also have hard-to-find styles, which is great for sneakerheads looking for certain styles that may be sold out in US.
Promo: Extra 40% off select regular priced items here and extra 20% off sale items here. Code BF2022.
So that's my roundup! Did I forget to mention your fave brand? Pls let me know in the comments and I will find out what deals are out there. I got you! Happy shopping!
“If you make friends with yourself, you will never be alone.” – Maxwell Maltz
Recently, I checked something off my bucket list. I booked myself a room on the Queen Mary 2 transatlantic cruise liner, going Westbound from Southampton, UK to NYC for next May. It'll be my first time on a cruise and of course, I had to go BIG.
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| My attitude now - tee from Fashion to Figure (old) |
As someone who has spent most of her life more single than boo-ed up, I could never get on a cruise because single supplements were out of my budget. All my friends have significant others and I am always the odd one out. Thankfully Cunard, who owns the QM2, recently added single rooms to the ship and the price is comparable to a double occupancy room. They're also very accommodating to solo travelers and will give you tailored itineraries daily, offering you the choice to go at it alone or mingle with other guests at meals and activities. Go Cunard! Read more here.
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| The Britannia Single Oceanview Room, which I booked - Photo: Cunard |
Traveling solo is actually something that I love doing. It's just something empowering about going somewhere by yourself and having that freedom to do things on your time. You get to do what you want, when you want at where you want. There's places I want to go to that my friends have no interest in visiting such as the Antarctic Peninsula and Easter Island.
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| First time showing off my upper arms in Los Angeles - California Dreaming Mural |
But as someone who suffers from generalized anxiety disorder, traveling solo has pushed me beyond my self-imposed limits. Sometimes I win and sometimes I don't. But it has not stopped me from traveling. I have learned to not let my anxiety limit me in seeing the world. I also learned that traveling my way may look different but it is still okay.
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| My first solo trip in 1998 - Martinique |
What I mean by that is I travel at my own pace and don't feel like I have to adhere to a certain schedule or see certain places because everyone else has. As the saying goes, comparison is the thief of joy. It's so easy to get caught up in the word of social media and feel that FOMO. But you have to ask yourself, is it what you truly want? Because in all honesty, you don't see the behind the scenes happenings on social media. The true things happening behind the pic or video - are they truly enjoying that moment or just trying to get the perfect pic to pretend they are? We'll never know but that's okay because what matters is what makes YOU happy. And that may look different than what your favorite influencer is doing.
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| Cancun |
Your life is your life. And you should live every single minute the way you want. This is what traveling has taught me. For me, that also means, not feeling a way about asking for a selt belt extender or having to use a wheelchair at times at the airport if my legs hurt from my lymphedema. I tell myself, I will probably never see these people again so if they want to stare, have at it. If I see someone recording me on their phone, I start recording them and let them know that. I grew tired of feeling like it was my fault and being upset, which affected my trip. It's their problem, not mine. So I refuse to carry their burdens and let it weigh me down and affect my traveling experience.
I remember being in the emergency room last summer for an extreme nose bleed from getting whacked in the face by accident by a flying suitcase falling from my closet (another story, for another day, lol). And as I was getting checked in, the person at the desk yelled out to me, "How much do you weigh?" as I sat in a room full of people. I yelled back to her "That's not appropriate to ask someone that loudly in front of other people because it's my business. If you want to know, you can ask me when I am in a private room, waiting to be seen by a doctor and you can ask me, not yell at me." She actually came out and apologized, saying she didn't realize as she was rushing to check multiple people in.
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| Before I climbed 268 steps to touch Big Buddha - Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Island, China |
Sometimes you have to let people know that it's not right to treat people a certain way. Periodt. This is something I think about when I travel and have to deal with rude flight attendants (which I am happy to say has been rare) and people acting funny if they have to sit next to me. Their problem, not mine. And I have learned to not be afraid to speak up and advocate for myself. But it does take time to build up the courage to do, I won't front. One day at a time.
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| Venice |
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| Champ Élysées in Paris |
No, not anymore. I learned how to turn on my mental blinders and just be unbothered. It took a long time to make that a habit but being fearless doesn't happen in a day. However, if you commit to it and try one day at a time, it becomes the norm for you. You take your power back and trust me when I say, it feels so good. You feel free. You don't hear the comments or see the stares. You just live in the moment where it's just you enjoying your life. Because at the end of the day, you can't force someone not to stare or change others. But you can change how you react to the situation and how you let it affect you. This is a reminder I tell myself on the daily.
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| Going out to dinner in Anaheim, California |
With this way of thought, I feel like I can do anything and go anywhere. I admit, I may have days where I am anxious about leaving my hotel room by myself but I work on taking that first step out. If I don't, that's okay. I give myself grace and don't beat myself up over it. And sometimes, I may end up leaving the room later in the day or maybe just venturing out into the hotel. Any step out of the room is a win.
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| At the Su-Style Expo in San Juan, Puerto Rico |
I'm not perfect. No one is perfect. But you are you. And you are worthy of living your best life and that includes traveling and seeing different places. And how that adventure looks to you is for YOU, no one else. If you never want to leave the country, that's okay. Explore your country. Explore your city, your state, your province. You do YOU.
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| Grand Canyon SkyWalk |
That's what traveling solo has shown me. It has helped me to become a better person, ultimately living a better life where I continue to grow and heal.
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| Roaming the streets of Paris |
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| Drinking at a tequila farm outside of the pyramids at Teotihuacan |
My QM2 adventure is still 9 months away but I cannot tell you how excited I am. Am I terrified about getting on a cruise liner by myself and being at sea for 8 days straight, crossing the Atlantic. HELL YES. But will I let that stop me from going? HELL NO. Shoot, I'm already planning my outfits. And I plan to live my best life during that trip, one day at a time.
Do you love to travel or want to travel more? Where do you want to go? Let me know in the comments below or on social media. I'd love to chat about it! xo, Marcy
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