O's creative director, Adam Glassman, tells you what your best friends won't.
Dear Adam:
As a plus-size woman, what do I absolutely need in my closet?
Response: Lingerie that lifts, smooths, and supports, including shapewear pieces and a properly fitted bra. You've got to get dressed from the inside out. A white wrap shirt to show off your waist (if you have one) or give the illusion of curves (if you don't). Black boot-cut stretch pants to balance broader hips. Jeans with some stretch—I'll even allow elasticized waists as long as you swear to wear your tops untucked. A wrap dress in a solid color (more slimming than prints). A trenchcoat with a waist-shrinking belt. Epaulets build up the shoulders—instant hourglass. A straight skirt for the curvy; an a-line if your body shape is less defined. A stretch tank to layer with—it helps to contain larger breasts. A pair of heels for shapelier calves. …and opaque hose to match—for the longest-looking legs in town.