There is one thing that I’ve felt deep in my bones for quite some time now: I can wear anything I want.
Now, now, this doesn’t mean I want wear every style or trend. It also doesn’t mean that everything I want to wear is available in my budget or size. But even though I’m decidedly short (5’3” on my model card) and decidedly plump, I’ve reached a state where almost no outfit scares me. In my mind, if I want to try it, I know I can.
You may be thinking that I have superhuman confidence. What it actually boils down to is figuring out two things: one, what the essential elements at the root of my sartorial inspiration are (is the texture, color, silhouette, material?); and two, how I can achieve those desired elements on my canvas? I’m not a sample size, but learning about fit and cut has helped me understand how to get a look on my body. It does sometimes involve shopping outside of my assigned sections and having a vision that might need tweaks and adjustments, but it’s been so completely freeing.
I refuse to subscribe to the idea that fat folks aren’t fashion. I want folks to feel empowered to achieve the style they want to wear. I don’t need to be concerned about what’s flattering outfits, and…walk with me… neither do you. Getting dressed is a daily requirement—don’t you want to insert some joy and play into something you are going to do anyways? It makes getting dressed more “Who do I want to be today?,” instead of “How do I want to fix my body today?”
Now that we’re well into the season, I turned to some of the biggest Fall 2025 trends from the runways to demonstrate how they can work on different bodies. Let’s dive in.
Modern Minimalist
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
This trend is probably the furthest outside my typical style. I’d absolutely describe myself as a maximalist. Still, I wanted the challenge of playing with pared-down, beautifully made goods. I looked to The Row and Toteme for style inspiration, as both brands focus on form, fabrication, and timeless designs that feel elevated and not specifically contemporary.
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
For my takes on the look, I chased beautiful silhouettes and soft fabrics—nothing too fitted or restrictive. For footwear, Tabi boots and fancy flats felt appropriate because they’re eye-catching but subtle. (You really have to look to appreciate the detail.) Cashmere is a natural choice (yes, cozy season), and outerwear in easy, classic silhouettes.
Universal Standard
Callaghan Wool Coat
Bohème
The Asymmetric Cashmere Knit
Abercrombie & Fitch
Curve Love High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean
WoodchuckSato
Black Cow Leather Tabi Ankle Boots with 3 cm Heel
Reformation
Cove Cashmere Oversized Crew
Gap
UltraSoft Oversized Balloon-Sleeve Icon Denim Jacket
Oh So Bohemian
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
Chloé has completely revitalized the boho look in fashion. My personal takeaway is that it comes down to easy styling and opulent fabrications—think lace, sheer, flowing, intricate detailing.
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
I looked to my closet to emulate the nods and emotions that the Chloé Fall 2025 runway gave me. Volume and sheer were very important, coming together in styling that says, “I’m a creative.”
ASOS Design
Curve velvet and lace mix high neck long sleeve blouse in black
City Chic
Lacie Ruffle Long Sleeve Lace Top
Old Navy
Long-Sleeve Tie-Neck Chiffon Top
Weekend Max Mara
Black Angora Cap
Penningtons
Black Sheer Lace Midi Dress with Balloon Sleeves
ASOS Design
Curve Celeste flat western knee boots in black with stitching
Eloquii
Sheer Lace Button Up Top
Prep School
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
Looking to the classic American Ivy style, modern interpretations of prep come to us from many places. I love the way Aimé Leon Dore explores prep through streetwear, incorporating bold colors and clever layering. The Polo Ralph Lauren Oak Bluffs collection referenced further back, inspired by the predominately Black community in Martha’s Vineyard. Both lean on collared shirts and sweaters, natural fibers, color blocking, and sports lettering.
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
I wanted to play on the layering and relaxed fun of prep. Denim felt like a natural choice for a foundation to build on.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Curve Love High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean
Jenni Kayne
Boyfriend Shirt
J.Crew
Italian wool tie in paisley
ABLE
Kimberly Trench Coat
Jenni Kayne
Cashmere Half Zip
J.Crew
Teagan scalloped lace-up heels in patent leather
ASOS Design
Curve longline trench coat in khaki
Dark Romance
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
One of my absolute favorite designers is Simone Rocha. Fantastical, nostalgic, dreamy, femme but not docile—there are so many elements to her designs that speak to my style. I love the ways she uses sheer layers and revealing cutouts to add surprise and sensuality to her looks. Leather also often pops up in her work; the hard and soft contrast is a steadfast element of her clothing.
(Image credit: Lydia Okello)
I played with whimsy, textures, and contrast for my Simone Rocha Fall 2025-inspired look. Hard boots with soft knits, volume with plenty of skin on display. She often works off of black, white, and cream, adding an accent color, so I considered that in my palettes.
Seasalt Cornwall
Sea Path Oversize Organic Cotton Poplin Button-Up Shirt
Wildfang
The Empower Long Sleeve Button Up
Selkie
Raven Le Bisou Dress
Vagabond Shoemakers
Karlie Lace-Up Cap Toe Boot
Marina Rinaldi
Preston Water Repellent Quilted Coat
Nordstrom
Allover Sparkle Metallic Quarter Socks
Breaking down specific elements of trends you can translate to your own wardrobe is so helpful for me. Plus, shopping my own closet to emulate looks I’m loving is a fun exercise. I’d love to inspire you to play around in your closet—and I know you’ll definitely look hot, whatever you are wearing!
