If you are looking for some fashion forward clothing directly from the designer then you have to familiarize yourself with a New York based boutique co-owned by Monif and Elaine Clarke (daughter/mother team). Monif C actually started out on the web a few years back and just opened their first walk-in boutique.

Selection: Monif C's designs are divided into collections like Holiday, Rebel Colours, Brown Sugar Classics and the Convertible Dress. They have a few signature pieces that they bring back every season in stunning new colors.

Sizing: Monif C's designs accentuate the curves in sizes 14 - 24. Their convertible dress size 8 - 24.

Styling: Bold colors and cuts that accentuate the positive side of curves. Styles look best on top heavy and hour glass figures than for pear shaped ones. This line is made mostly of dresses with some tops and a few skirts.

Pricing: You will find boutique fabrics at a higher end price but not a starlet price. Lowest price item $32 (sale) and highest $450.

Availability: Monif C ships theirs designs internationally for a reasonable rate (a bit expensive for Canada). U.S. rates begin at $6.95 and go from there depending on the order total.

Overall Impression: In my opinion the best thing to ever come out of this website/designer is the convertible dress which comes out in new colors every season. It is definitely their signature product and is totally fabulous. Who doesn't want 10+ dress styles from one dress? They are getting an amazing amount of deserving publicity from fashion magazines like Glamour and television shows like Tyra Banks. I just saw their latest fashions on Rip the Runway and they were fabulous. The online boutique is full of great images of their clothing on super curvy women. It is easy to surf and order from. I always like a website that allows you to easily find shipping/return information (some sites seem to hide it). I found theirs within a click in the customer service tab.

Visit Monif C for plus size dresses, tops and skirts.