In an industry where there truly is no “right” or “wrong” way to style or wear clothing, knowing what works for YOU and your body type becomes the bigger question. Sure, there is “I would never” moments when it comes to specific stylings, or “imitation is flattery, right?,” but if one thing is for sure, it is that Spring often brings diverse and distinctive color palettes to the fore. And we are all for it! Blending comfort and familiarity with bold colors and rising hemlines, the season has officially arrived. From sunny Los Angeles, we have brought in plus size model and content creator — Catie Li — to share her two cents on what we are going to see this Spring, and the best ways to dress for your individual body type. 

A passionate, confident and creative industry trailblazer, Li has seen first hand the changing trends over her nine years as a model. “I always wanted to be a part of the fashion industry in my career, but I just didn't realize it would be as a model! I thought I would be behind the scenes as a creative director, but by fate / buying a sofa from Craigslist,” laughs Li, “I became a plus size model.” Turns out the owner of the sofa was a plus model herself. “I have always loved fashion growing up and since I have always been curvy, I had to be creative in my style. My message to my audience is to be confident no matter what size you are and I hope that shows through my content.”

Building her platform on body positivity, fashion and glam, this model knows a thing or two about developing a style. As an industry insider, what is the best approach for styling different body types? “I think it is important to experiment with different styles and cuts to find what looks best on your body type,” shares Li. “Try and not get discouraged because you are going to go through a lot of pieces that are probably not going to look that great. Once you figure out your styling pieces, you can start accessorizing. For me, mid-rise to high rise pants look best on me with open cut tops. Accessories, like belts around my waist give more of an hourglass shape, and classic sunglasses and gold hoops help to elevate my look. I always look on Pinterest and my peers as well for inspiration. Be daring and bold!”

Catie Li’s DO’s and DON’T’s of styling: 

It starts with one.

“DO buy timeless pieces that can forever be in your closet. I like to buy great statement jackets, good jeans and tops in white, black or nude. You can always mix these pieces together for timeless looks and accessories to elevate them.” 

Anything HE can wear, I can wear better.

“DO check out the men's department sometimes, I've gotten great pieces from the Nike’s mens section. I often wear my fiancés vintage t-shirts.” 

If it’s not right, dump it!

“DON’T buy something that doesn't fit you. If the number / size bothers you, cut it off. Overall fit is important.

Trust your gut.

“DON’T wear a trend if you don’t think it matches your personality. For example, it was low rise jeans for me.”

It is time to clue up on all the it-styles set to dominate this season.

Catie Li breaks down her take on ’22 SPRING TRENDS: 

Bright, bold and neon?

Embrace vibrancy and joy on these balmy eves as bold colors and rich prints add new energy and vivacity to your wardrobe. When in doubt, trust that more is more.

Cut to the chase.

From adding a fun edge to midi and long shapely dresses, we are loving the negative space trend this season. Cutouts are coming in all shapes and sizes, meaning there is a style for everyone. Another day, another cutout piece.

Sway this way.

The coming and going of a delicate fringe adds an optimistic appeal to a stagnant garment. The combination of fringe and open space signifies the movement we look forward to with each passing season.

Sorry jeans!

Eye catching color palettes are gracing more than the workplace as wider leg trousers become a Spring staple. From checkerboard to cheeky prints to statement colors, this maximalist trend will become your go-to method for elevating spring. 

Now that we filled in our Spring wardrobe and Catie Li has spilled her styling hacks, the model leaves us with these parting words: “Hopefully you will be seeing more of me! I hope that I can make a statement in the plus size fashion industry, whether that is continuing designing clothes or creating more buzz worthy content. Also, forget the rules, if you like it wear it!”