I’m 5'1" and a Size 14 These Are the Pieces That Actually Made Me Feel Good in My Clothes

Disclaimer: This post is in partnership with Express , a brand I love. All opinions here are my own.

I recently flew out to Santa Monica to get some behind-the-scenes work done for AutumLove.com—and let me just say, this trip turned out to be one of the most stylish getaways I’ve had in a long time. As someone who’s usually glued to her laptop, leisure isn’t something that comes easy. And when it comes to packing for that rare vacation? Forget it.

I’m a 5’1” girlie with a size 14 frame and a postpartum belly that refuses to disappear quietly. So finding clothes that fit, feel good, and make me want to take a mirror selfie (without cropping out half my stomach) is a whole situation.

When Express offered to send over a few pieces from their summer collection, I knew I wanted to focus on one thing: the fit.
Because here’s the truth style means nothing if the clothes don’t make you feel good on your actual body.

And at AutumLove.com, we don’t just throw up a few cute pictures and call it a day. Every piece featured here gets the real test:
Does it fit a midsize body (I’m a size 14)?
Does it feel comfortable and look polished?
Will it actually solve the style struggles so many of us face?

If it’s in this post, it’s because it passed all of the above.

BTW, if you’re thinking about grabbing any of these pieces,or doing a little summer closet refresh, Express is running their End of Season Sale from July 12th through July 31st. It’s the perfect time to snag hot-weather styles (including some of the ones I featured) at major discounts. Basically: if you’ve been meaning to do a little haul, now’s your moment

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The Bodysuit That Snatched Me Without Suffocating Me

Compression bodysuits and a visible belly line? A horror story. But this one passed the test. I sized up to a large (normally a medium) because tight compression + a muffin top = a bloaty disaster. This one held me in, didn’t roll up, and layered perfectly under trousers.

Body Contour Compression High Neck Bodysuit

$34.00

I’m wearing a Size L

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The Trousers That Didn’t Gap in the Back

These are so good. Not stiff, not clingy, just a soft, drapey fabric that felt comfortable but looked put-together. And no back-gap. Let me repeat: No. Back. Gap. I got the regular length (I’m 5’1”), and they were a little long, but perfect with a low block heel. If the short version is sold out, you can still make these work or tailor them. They’re worth it.

High-Waisted Relaxed Trousers

$88.00

I’m Wearing a Size 14 Regular

The Dress That Made Me Believe in Mirror Pics Again

This dress is a moment. It’s soft, stretchy, not itchy (I had to triple check that), and hugs in the right places. I sized down to a medium after reading reviews, and it was the right move. I wore shapewear for a smoother look and added a gold belt to elevate it. It’s ageless, flattering, and can easily be layered with a denim jacket or blazer if you’re not into showing arms.

Metallic Crochet Scoop Neck Maxi Sweater Dress

$98.00

I’m wearing a Size M

The Everyday Dress for Girls Who Hate Dresses

I wasn’t expecting to love this, but now I want it in every color. It’s easy, comfy, and doesn’t scream “trying too hard.” I added shaper shorts underneath and threw a sweater over it, but this could easily be styled with sneakers, a cropped jacket, or even layered under a crewneck. Lip gloss, blush, and you're done.

Mixed Media V-Neck Sleeveless Drop Waist Midi Dress

$98.00

I’m wearing a size M