Big Girls Don't Cry
More than half the women in America wear at least a size 12 dress. Guess how many want to look like a street urchin? Enough with the waif. Too many grown-ups with full breasts, ample hips, large shoulders and baggage-free self-images are tired of the implication that the only way they could be in fashion is wrapped in the shroud of Turin. Less is not necessarily more, though in truth, more should usually wear less. Beaded epaulets, dropped waists and garish prints are not the way to a lovelier silhouette in any size. Large women are flattered by the unemcumbered lines, monochromatic layers, easy fit and minimal jewelry currently in style. In fact, no matter what the arbiters say there are clothes out there for you. In these lean times, fashion could profit from a little largess.  FASHION