Fabulous at any size

MANILA, Philippines - Looking hip and trendy at any size is not a problem for Danah and Stacy Gutierrez of www.theplumpinay.com. Both fresh out of college and already working for Yahoo! Philippines, the 20-year-old twins have taken a stand on the issue of body image: being a size zero does not automatically make a girl any better than the rest.

The sisters are curvaceous and are not afraid to show it. “We don’t believe there are rules to dressing for a plus-sized girl,” says Stacy. “She can wear whatever she wants.” For zaftig girls, though, it is important that they wear the correct size. While going too small is inappropriate, bigger-sized clothing wouldn’t make one look slimmer or hide flaws, either. Selecting a physical asset as the focus of the look works well, such as a dark solid-colored bottom worn with a light colored top to draw the eyes up and give the illusion of slimmer hips. Tops that are cut lower in the front or have a V-neck instantly give the illusion of a longer and leaner neck.

While there are guidelines for dressing according to one’s body type, the twins believe that confidence can get any girl to pull off an outfit. Comfort and a great fit are what it all boils down to. 

Of course, Danah and Stacy have had their share of pressures: wanting to be thin like many of the girls at school. Stacy even experienced going through eating disorders, which inspired her to start the blog; she has since realized that there is much more to life than obsessing over one’s weight. A healthy lifestyle — a balanced diet and appropriate amount of exercise — and self-acceptance are much more important. Danah and Stacy are on a mission to spread their belief that bigger is also beautiful, and to influence other young women about body acceptance.