I can hardly stifle the giggle as I type the word “fashionista.” It is a word that is so far from who I am that it seems ridiculous to even mutter it, but lately I’ve been really enjoying the world of fashion, at least the little bit of it that I’ve chosen to bite off.

It started with my curiosity about capsule wardrobes. I did some research on them and I liked the idea, but in my world not everything is mix and match. Hemlines from shirts have to be of a particular length to be worn with certain pants or skirts, or else the entire effect is quite horrifying. Maybe not to the casual observer, but unless the bulges are covered just so I feel exposed and uncomfortable. I find myself with the same go-to outfits over and over, as so many other women do.

I wanted to expand my horizons a bit, so I looked into the clothing subscription services. It didn’t take me long to find Dia & Co online, and their reviews were terrific. I read through their website, watched a few unboxing videos, and decided to give it a try.

For a $20 styling fee (mine was waived with my first box) items are chosen specifically for you and sent to your door. How do they know what to choose? You provide guidance by answering a series of specific questions and uploading some pictures of yourself. Just like online dating, the more you’re willing to share and be vulnerable, the better matches you’re likely to secure.

kimono and skinny jeans

My first box arrived, and my initial thought was how can they fit five items to fit me in that little box? They did, though, and they were thoughtfully wrapped in tissue paper with a gold seal and a personalized note from my stylist, Melly. As I took out each item I got more and more excited. That first box contained a wrap dress in a funky geometric print, a brilliant blue blouse perfect for work, a cute striped top for weekend wear, a gorgeous flowing kimono type garment, and a pair of skinny jeans. Honestly, I don’t think I would have tried on any of those pieces in the store, but then again that’s why I wanted a stylist

I loved being able to try everything on in my own home, and I felt like a little kid putting on a fashion show. The only item I didn’t instantly love was the striped top because it felt a little snug to me. I decided to keep the rest of the items but try to exchange the top for the next size. The only glitch was that the next size wasn’t available, so I simply didn’t buy that piece. You only pay for what you keep, and if you buy anything from the box your $20 styling fee is refunded.

By the time I got my second box I was nearly giddy with anticipation. I figured the first one must have been something of a fluke, but there was bound to be something in there that I liked, so I opened it up with great fanfare and again felt like it was Christmas and my birthday all rolled into one. Melly sent me another beautiful dress,this one in vibrant tones that I just adore. She also sent a pair of “boyfriend” jeans that I was a little afraid of, because of the distressing. Her note assured me that they were on trend and age appropriate. I decided to reserve judgment until I tried them on. There was also a flowing, flowery tunic, perfect for topping leggings, and a black top with flowered sleeves.  Finally, there was a maxi-skirt with a Southwest type print in coral, turquoise, and black on a white background. Again, nothing I would have chosen, but off to the fashion show I went.

I have to say it, I loved it all. Even the boyfriend jeans. I feel adorable in them, and I’ve received several compliments on how cute they are. The black top with the floral sleeves? I would have NEVER picked that, but 1) it’s SO comfy and looks great dressy or with jeans, and 2) I’ve received more compliments on that top than any item of clothing I’ve ever owned (except maybe my wedding dress, but people HAVE to compliment those, right?). Needless to say, I kept the entire box. The nice part about that is when you do, Dia & Co gives you a 20% discount.

When you consider that you’re purchasing five items that are hand-picked for you, based on your size, body type, coloring, and preferences, and you don’t have to set foot outside of your home to do it, I think it’s a deal. My items have averaged about $40 each, but to have them chosen for me, fit me, look good on me, and not have the disappointment of rummaging through rack after rack to find items is totally worth it. Plus, with this company, I’ve found ways to expand my style to include new looks that make me feel confident, and, dare I say it, fashionable.

Listen, I’ve been blogging for a few years, and if you read BulgingButtons regularly you know that I don’t generally do product endorsements. I didn’t receive anything in exchange for this blog post, I’m just really happy with the company. And yes, if you’d like to give them a try you can use this code: https://www.dia.co/r/7gg5 . I think it gives me some sort of discount or something, but that’s not why I’m sharing. I’m sharing because as a fat girl who has literally shed tears in store dressing rooms it’s nice to have a positive shopping experience, and it’s nice to feel valued by a fashion company. Shopping has become fun again, and I want other plus sized women to know this service is out there and it might be the boost your wardrobe and image needs.