When it comes to clothes, I have experienced every single emotion you can think of. If you’re reading this, I know you’ve been there too. Emotions like:

Grief. When nothing fits and suddenly your body grief is activated full throttle

Frustration. Why do brands refuse to produce clothing in sizes that fit larger bodies?! Why would they rather uphold fatphobia than accept my money . . .

Resignation. I don’t even like this outfit or this brand, but it’s the only item available in my size so I guess I better just buy it . . .

But with enough patience and intentionality, sometimes even . . . JOY.

When you are continually denied the privilege of choice in clothing because of fatphobia, finding joy in getting dressed can be elusive. If that’s your predominant experience, I get it and I’ve been there. And that grief gets to suck, no qualifiers..

But I also know that finding joy in getting dressed does exist. ♥️

That’s why I want to share a wonderful try-on experience I had with Sydney’s Closet.

One that was so affirming I could hardly decide which dress was my favorite. A moment that teenage-me would have never believed was possible.

I was thrilled when Sydney’s Closet recently sent me five (F IV E !!!!) of their incredible formal dresses to try on. Sydney’s Closet specializes in stunning gowns, prom dresses, and occasion wear exclusively in sizes 40 to 14, creating beautiful and on-trend dresses that are actually size inclusive.

I’ve sobbed in dressing rooms, consumed by the grief driven by clothing brands demanding I shrink myself. I’ve written about

..but today I want to share about what happens when we experience we get the privilege of CHOICE after being denied that privilege for so long.

Reclaiming the joy of getting dressed in clothes that fit and make you feel good is so powerful. That’s why I value the opportunity to have a corrective shopping experience like I did with Sydney’s Closet.

I’m often asked where I get my clothing, and so I’m especially excited to share this brand with you. Sydney’s Closet is an example of a company that is truly committed to size diversity — which is rare when it comes to formal dressing.

Without further ado, may I present my Sydney Closest’s Haul where every dress I tried on not only fit, but made me feel like royalty! ✨

DRESS 1: Prom Tease Style TE2437

Onyx Black, size 28

The first dress I tried was the Prom Tease Style TE2437 in onyx black and in size 28. I was blown away by how beautiful it was, and more importantly, how beautiful I felt in it. I absolutely adored the shape and structure this dress had, with its a-line satin skirt and sparkly lace bodice. The way the spaghetti straps criss-crossed in the back was one of my favorite details, along with the high slit in the skirt. AND IT HAD POCKETS. An instant yes from me.

DRESS 2: Good Vibrations Dress

Lemon, Size 28

Next up was a ray of sunshine in the form of a gown: the Good Vibrations Dress in Lemon, which I tried on in a size 28. This was pure princess magic and I felt radiant in it. What especially struck me was the fit itself: from the delicate sweetheart neckline to the way the dress was fitted to my body perfectly. And the satin fabric felt so light it was almost like wearing nothing at all. Plus, POCKETS! This dress made me feel like Belle herself, and I was so ready for it.

While the Good Vibrations Dress is currently sold out, the Picture Perfect Gown captures that whimsical princess energy.

DRESS 3: Prom Tease Style TE2323

Burgundy, Size 28

Let me introduce you to Disney’s newest princess: ME, when I’m wearing the Prom Tease Style TE2323 in Burgundy, which I tried on in a size 28. I absolutely loved the ballgown silhouette and full tulle skirt. I felt utterly regal in it, and was obsessed with the intricacy of the bodice: the lace, the sparkles, the illusion mesh neckline, and the exceptionally gorgeous lace-up back. In this gown, I felt like I was ready to get on stage and perform!

DRESS 4: Here Comes the Sun Blue & White Chiffon Floral Picnic Dress

Blue + White, Size 30

Dress number four was the definition of elegance and grace: Here Comes the Sun Blue & White Chiffon Floral Picnic Dress, which I tried on a size 30. She was giving Grecian goddess. She was giving Princess of Sussex. I felt elegant the moment I slipped the flowy chiffon on my body. This material was so soft, y’all, and felt so high quality. I loved the sweetness of the flutter sleeves, and that floral pattern was everything.

The Here Comes the Sun Picnic Dress is currently sold out, but the Spring Sensation Dress is giving a similarly elegant vibe and color palette.

Dress 5: Prom Tease Style TE2525

Blue Floral, Size 30

Princess? Try QUEEN. Is that not the highest praise you could give a gown? I tried on the Prom Tease Style TE2525 in Blue Floral and size 30, and did it ever make me feel like royalty. I especially was into the tiered a-line skirt – those layers of floral net mesh were perfect for twirling the night away in.

Though nearly impossible — I did choose my dress. But before you sneak a peek 👀- comment below which is your favorite dress or which one you thought you might have selected!

Thank you to the fabulous Sydney’s Closet for partnering with me! You can shop these dresses and so many more stunning styles on their website (and find stores that carry their brand in person).

And thanks to you, friend, for letting me share this moment of clothing joy with you.

Remember, you deserve the joy of getting dressed in the body you are in right now because you are already worthy of beauty.

And I promise you don’t need to shrink yourself to get it. 💕

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