Online shopping is hard. It’s true! You don’t get to try anything on, you don’t get to feel the fabric… If there’s a size chart, you better have your measuring tape ready and be sure you’ll look exactly the same by the time the garment gets to you so the chances that it will fit properly will be higher… Many online retailers don’t even have a mannequin for the garments, so you can’t see if the inseam on those shorts is actually as scandalous as 4″ seems.

But lest we not forget the online retailers with live models wearing the products… A little less than helpful if you’re not a size 2, or a fit model yourself.Seeing something you’re considering purchasing on a model that’s about 8 sizes smaller than you can not only detract you from purchasing, but it may also miscommunicate how the garment will fit! Unless you’ve managed to find your way to a plus-sized- or petite-only store, the models are going to be little.

But that doesn’t stop retailers from using them.

Every so often, however, we come across a site that startles us with their model selection… in a good way. This time, it was Opening Ceremony. If you’re unfamiliar with the shop, be prepared to get excited: Opening Ceremony is a haven for those interested in supporting emerging designers. Not only are they unique because of their garments, but we also came across this curvy, shapely gal modeling some lace tights:

Not only are we impressed by the serious muscle tone on this gal, but she’s got hips! And candy! She’s in a short skirt (not something baggy, as we usually see!) and she’s rocking some serious style.

This is a refreshing sight in a world full of “if you’re over a size 6, you’re plus sized”. They still have their thinner models, but it’s quite a statement for a prominent fashion establishment with a cult following to equate a more curvy model with the typical tiny version.

Props to you, Opening Ceremony! Keep up the good work.