Over the last five years, there are very few celebrities who have undergone such a radical style
transformation as Miss Kelly Osbourne. The rock star offspring and reality tv star has gone from sulky teenager to style icon, and is currently impressing American audiences on Dance with the stars.
Kelly started out wearing punk-rock outfits, spiky hair and a permanent scowl. Now though, she's gracing the red carpet in prom dresses and high heeled pumps. Kelly brings the 60's look into the twenty first century, and on Dance with the stars, she's been embracing glamorous floor length dancing gowns. You'll also rarely see Kelly in a pair of flats, as she's only a petite 5 ft 2 in.
For the red carpet, Plus-size have several outfits that would suit Miss Osbourne perfectly. This Galina dress (£75) has the retro pattern Kelly would love, along with a nipped in
waist and cowl neckline to take advantage of her hourglass figured.
This beautiful Joe Browns dress (£40) is a autumnal day dress that would look adorable with a cream cardigan and tan leather boots. This is one of my favourite pieces on the site, and it's well worth browsing the rest of the Joe Browns range.
Finally, this wiggle dress (£38.50) will set her up for all those Christmas parties. Teaming it up with these animal print peeptoes (£30) will add an extra rock chick detail.
For Dancing with the stars, Kelly needs a collection of gowns that allow her to move in an elegant manner. This Grecian maxi dress (£84) would look amazing with a sparkly waist belt. These patent heels with bow detail might not be easy to dance in, but they certainly look amazing.
The embellished detail on this dress draw attention to the top half of your body, great for any pear shapes who feel a bit shy about their bum.
The size zero debate has reared its ugly head again thanks to Kate Moss. The supermodel has recently been quoted as saying "Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels"
Now, this isn't a new phrase. I've heard it at weight watchers meetings, from friends and family, and on TV. However, this time it's apparently significant because it's coming from inside the modelling industry.
Kate Moss has since been blasted for saying this, and labelled as "shocking and irresponsible". Several plus size models, including size 16 Grace Braxtone, have been interviewed by The Sun paper. Grace has suggested that Miss Moss should be more aware of her position as a mother and as a fashion designer for Topshop.
I've never been a big fan of Kate Moss. She's come away from a cocaine scandal with more work then before news broke, and she's dated dubious guys like Pete Doherty. However, I think in this case, Kate is being used as a scapegoat. She was stupid to say it, but she's only saying
what so many of the models in the industry are thinking.
The problem isn't just with Kate Moss herself. Lets be honest, she may get various advertising deals but, she's not exactly someone you look to as a role model for excellent decision making. The problem is much more complex, involving the media, peer pressure and celebrities in
general.
Kate has been producing a range of clothing for tiny women which, although is available in a variety of sizes, is still created with a supermodel figure in mind. Kate's declaration is simply verbalising a message her actions have been saying for years.
Models like Grace provide us with the role models young girls need. Now if the media could feature them more often in their own right, rather than in reply to yet another size zero story, we may be getting somewhere.
As a natural redhead, I come across the same sort of problems as those of us who are plus-size. There just doesn't seem to be a vast array of role models, compared to my blonde and brunette (of size 6 and 8)counterparts.
Red hair has long been an area of jest, and Nicola Roberts from Girls Aloud can contest to the cruelty the press has placed on those with a different hair colour. For a long time she was considered to be the 'ugly one' and the 'miserable one', when the reality is very different.
Recently Nicola has really come into her own, embracing her ivory skin and red hair, rather than disguising it with fake tan and hair dye. The result is a confident, elegant and beautiful woman with some trailblazing style.
So whilst Nicola may not be plus-size, she's definitely a role model for those of us that don't fit into the blonde cheerleader mould. She's also inspirational in her choice of colours. Rather than sticking to the usual black and whites that are considered 'safe' for redheads, she embraces gold, green and purple to really accentuate her colouring.
Take this black and gold angel sleeve top. The gold foil style fabric and animal print are ultra-fashionable, but the tunic style makes it wearable for any size.
This purple embellished top with just the right amount of sparkle is the perfect top for a night out, or you could wear it over a pair of lace leggings to really be the centre of attention.
Finally, Nicola is all about accessorising. The top trend this winter is the Snood (a scarf and a hood) and this green jersey version will really make your hair colour stand out.
Shopping for the perfect dress for the Christmas party is a path fraught with obstacles and worries. The one chance a year you get to dress up and let your hair down with your colleagues, and you're inundated with various clothing options.
Most of us want to make a real entrance to the party, and there are three colours you can do that in
this year. Red is the colour to go for, not only for its festive tones, but as a bit of a vampish
look. Purple is still a popular colour going into Winter, and it's a more muted colour for those not brave enough to embrace the red. Finally, you can't go wrong with a little black dress.
For those of you leaning towards the red option, this ruch back cocktail dress (£80) is a dress that will suit all body types and skin tones. Fitted with a subtle bodice to give you a tiny waist, it also features a scooped back to give a hint of sexiness. I guarantee this dress will get you plenty of free drinks!
My love affair with the wrap dress is unwavering, and this purple cinch dress only encourages this. Another dress that gives the impression of a small waist, or enhances one for those lucky hourglass figures. Purple is also a really nice colour to accessorise, as it goes with grey, black, white and pink colours.
Finally, this black wiggle dress is an interesting twist on the usual black dresses, and features an asymmetrical neckline that will set off any sparkly jewellery you'll be wearing.
It's now less than 45 days until Christmas! It's crept up quietly, and we now have six weekends left to battle the shops, packed full of dawdling families and ridiculous queues.
Or, you could save yourself the stress and do most of your pressie buying online.
For the last couple of years, I've been doing most of my shopping and price comparing online. Not only do I save a lot of money, but I save hours of sitting in traffic, standing behind a line of grumpy fellow shoppers and grabbing something at the last minute out of desperation.
So, with a list of secret santa gifts and stocking fillers to get, I've turned to Plus-Size.me. Here are my top 5 suggestions to fit every taste, and all of them cost less than a tenner.
This purple and gold scarf is only £6, and will brighten up any winter outfit. Purple is a hot trend this winter, so this will be the perfect gift for any friends or girly family members.
Hourglass shapes will appreciate this black and silver stretch belt, to highlight their teeny tiny waist. The sparkly contrast detail makes this the perfect accessory for the festive period. A bargain for only £10.
What girl doesn't like a bit of bling at Christmas? This stone burst ring is an eye-catching cocktail ring for £8.
Quilted handbags are luxurious and stylish, and this black one comes without the shocking price tag, at £10. You can also grab it in red, purple and blue.
Finally, a piece of funky headwear will go down nicely. This purple cable knit beret is £10, and is a nice stocking filler for any age.
So, now it's down to you! Battle the high street, or shop from the comfort of your own home?Christmas Gifts
Have you browsed the Christmas selection of gifts on Plus.Size me yet?
Just search Christmas and you'll get a lovely little collection of crafty goodness, festive decorations and Christmas cards.
I'm a bit rubbish at the whole Christmas cards thing. After a brief sort out last weekend, I discovered a whole pack of cards I bought last year, all written out but never posted. I don't even have a good excuse for not finishing the job as I live 5 minutes walk from my local post
office.
Anyway, this year I'm hopefully going to get round to actually send out some Christmas cards. My thinking is, if I put the effort into actually creating the cards, I'll feel more motivated to post them. Which brings me to this set of 60 Christmas shaped cards. Priced at just £10, they're the perfect basis for plenty of glitter based crafting.
If I have a little more time, I might consider this bumper kit of of Christmas Crafting. The contents vary, but generally you'll get Christmas Cards, glue,
glitter, stickers and fun stamps. A great kit to get the kids involved.
In terms of gifts, these cheeky ceramic mice are a great present to give to a loved one to add a bit of fun to the festivities. They're £15 for two.
This Santa Merry Christmas wreath will bring a smile to anyone who graces your doorstep. You could also pop it over your fireplace for a toasty and cosy scene. You can buy it for £12.
Talking of fireplaces, how about this decorative fire screen?
I think it's a lovely way of bringing a little Christmas charm to a room, without dominating it with a huge Christmas tree. At £60, it's not cheap but you'll use it for years to come.
I'm very much in support of providing everyone with an equal opportunity in most areas of life. Saying that, I was a little bemused when I heard about the new trend for plus-size nightclubs. The nightclubs have started to spring up across the USA, and they have been created to cater for a population with an increasing waist size. The plus size nightclubs aim to make those that fall into the plus size bracket comfortable in a club environment, without feeling paranoid of their size.
One of the clubs, Bounce in California, hopes to beat the 'fatist' door staff, and attracts an equal measure of men and women. The interesting thing is that most of the women are plus size, whilst only a quarter of the men are.
I have to say, I find this a little odd. When I go clubbing, the shapes and sizes of people vary wildly. Perhaps this is different in the USA, but in the UK I'd seriously doubt anyone would get turned away from the door for being too big. This might be the case in some of the posh celeb clubs, but really...I've been to some of them and they're an overpriced load of nonsense!
There are health worries involved too, with many believing that clubs like these will discourage people from losing weight. There may be some truth in this, but perhaps clubs like this can have a positive influence too. If those who are plus size can go somewhere where they feel more accepted and comfortable, then they may become more content in their everyday life and resort less to comfort eating.
Queen Latifah is one of those celebrities that hasn't fallen victim to the various fad diets floating around. She regularly works out with a trainer, but still maintains her natural curves and I really admire her for that. It hasn't stopped her getting some major roles in Hollywood either, or working her way up in the music and presenting world.
She has some pretty fierce style too. She's got two major styles; gym and formal. Here's a quick guide of how you can imitate her style from the range on Plus.Size.
For gym, Queen doesn't shy away from tight fitting jogging bottoms to making keeping fit easier. These silver grey velour jogging bottoms are £10 and seriously comfy. They come in black too and two different lengths.
On to the formal clothing side, Queen likes fitted long gowns. This Tawney criss cross dress (£69) is charming and can be glitzed up with some sparkly jewellery.
One of my favourite things about these colder months is the increasing number of occasions I get to pull on my comfiest boots. A decent pair of boots will go with any outfit and see you through a few seasons so it's worth investing in a great pair. I have a couple of old leather faithfuls, but took a massive chip out of the toe of my tan ones, so I desperately need a replacement now.
Unsurprisingly, Plus-Size has loads of options for girls like me who don't have the gazelle like slender calves of a supermodel. Evans in particular have a great range of boots to fit lots of different calf widths. I adore their brown tie boots for £50. I have a soft knit jumper dress that will contrast with the ties and buckles perfectly.
These black buckle boots, £40, feature this seasons studs with every seasons functionality. Pull them on for when you want to toughen up an outfit a little bit.
These plus size black stretch boots are made up of a stretch material to hugs your halves without cutting off the circulation to your ankles. Sexy and streamlined, they're the kind of boots that look great for work events or nights out. The little
heel will give you a wiggle without a limp. They're £35 from, unsurprisingly, Evans.
Biker boots and riding boots are pretty hot right now and these riding boots, £40, are ultra practical and tough. Wear them over jeans and a thick knit jumper to keep warm whilst enjoying an Autumn walk.
You can have a good browse of all the 91 styles of boots available on Plus Size here. If you're feeling confident, have a look at their ankle boots. They're easier to wear then you think, especially the slouchy ones.
I read an interesting article this week on the Independent website this week regarding the effect plus size and under sized models have on the self esteem of ladies who veer onto the overweight scale of sizes. The article is based on a study carried out by US, German and Dutch scientists who for the
Journal of Consumer Research.
The main conclusion from the research was that the size of a model doesn't matter, as all models
make overweight women feel bad about themselves. The findings show that larger women all suffer from a decreasing self esteem, regardless of the model they look at. On the flipside, underweight women only seem to get a higher self esteem, again regardless of the size of the model. When not looking at models, both groups had about the same level of self confidence and esteem.
I personally find this a little bizarre. As a size 14, I love seeing models wearing the same size
clothes as me because it then becomes a fashion that I can actually see myself wearing. I love some of the clothes that Nicole Richie wears, but the reality is that I'm more likely to feel more motivated to buy something Colleen Rooney or Charlotte Church wears as I can see that it is wearable on somewhere who doesn't have a size 6 waist.
It goes against Karl Lagerfield's remarks that no one wants to see a curvy model. If we go by this study, no one really cares if you're a curvy model or a skinny model as it's simply about seeing a model! It would be interesting to see if the findings would be different if they had
been conducted in the UK, rather than the image obsessed USA!
Heard of Karl Lagerfield? Supposedly he's a fashion designer, although he seems to spend more time slating anyone over a size zero and tarnishing the reputation of fashion labels everywhere than actually designing clothing.
The last time he caused great offence was when he claimed that Heidi Klum was too big to be on the catwalk. You know, Heidi Klum who's a world renowned supermodel and high in demand model who probably barely scrapes a size 8. Now he's expanding his insult to the whole industry, by wading in on the size zero debate. Lagerfield is quoted as saying about those that oppose the size zero
trend "These are fat mummies sitting with their bags of crisps in front of the television, saying that thin models are ugly,"... "no one wants to see round women" Charming.
He then goes on to claim that eating disorders are not an effect of the abundance of size zero models, and rather that it is purely an illness that comes from issues at home.
Thankfully, not everyone else agrees with him. Model Katie Green, who has previously modelled for Ultimo and Wonderbra, believes that this kind of attitude does encourage eating disorders. Katie says "If he thinks the fashion industry is all about 'dreams and illusions' then he should go to an eating disorder ward at any hospital. That will show him how this fantasy fashion world he has helped build makes women seriously ill and fighting for their lives.
Lagerfield believes no one wants to see 'real' woman, something I'm sure a lot of real men and women would disagree with! Katie believes so strongly in this that she's launched the "Say no to size zero" campaign. Katie is a size 12 and a healthy BMI for her height, surely this is the kind of example we need for real women?
Most men will confess to having a secret crush on Lorraine Kelly, and most women would love to
go shopping with her. She's a giggly, funny, voluptuous woman with bags of charm to boot, and knows how to dress for her curves and her age.
The best thing about Lorraine is, she's a big fan of budget friendly labels that the rest of us can afford too. Just tune in to LK:Today and see her cooing over a pair of Evans shoes or a chic little high street jacket! So, seeing as her style is within the reach of us normal people, how can we replicate it?
First of all, you'll need to pack all those trousers away. Lorraine embraces sexy wiggle skirts and shift dress that show off her slim legs and generous cleavage! Lorraine is quite petite, so skirts that fall just below the knee are the best options, like this black and grey block skirt from Evans. The skirt is £25 and has the contrast detail that was so hot on the catwalks this season. Don't just stick to black either, Lorraine embraces colour to make the most out of her peaches and cream complexion.
Next you need a twinset, which pulls you in and skims over any tummy areas. This Joanna Hope Lace Trim Knitted set will go perfectly with the block skirt, and has a luxurious edge at an affordable price of £65.
Finally, you need a bright pair of heels, preferably vampy red, in this season's most popular style. These red platform heels hit all the targets, and are great value at only £28.
If you really want to channel Lorraine's style, you could always go the whole hog and get this tartan tunic, as a cheeky nod to her Scottish heritage.
Initially I didn't want to look at Kelly Brook's style for this feature as, frankly, she's no where near plus size. I have to admit feeling slightly resentful that Kelly, who has the waist of a size 8, is constantly referred to in the media as a plus size woman just because she's been blessed with a great hourglass figure.
Putting my initial concerns aside, I have to admit that Kelly does dress well for her curvaceous
shape. Blessed with womanly hips and a generous chest, she has adopted a retro style that suit so many different shapes and sizes.
So, how can we create the illusion of a tiny waist, whilst highlighting the other assets? Well, firstly, waist belts are your friend. Get as many wide waist belts as you can in various colours. This large tan belt is a staple piece and a great investments for £20. I've got a few tan coloured belts and they're neutral enough to go with quite a few different outfits. This purple buckle waisted belt from Evans is another great purchase, nailing the trends for purple and patent.
Next, you need a sexy little pencil skirt to wiggle about in. This Black Frill Pencil Skirt adds a contemporary twist to the usual pencil skirt style, and comes in at £25. This curvy pencil skirt from Curvety is designed specifically with larger girls in mind, and will hug your curves. Both skirts will look gorgeous with a tucked in shirt and the wide waist belt pulling everything in.
Voila, tiny waist! Now all you need is these killer heels and you have Kelly's screen siren style down to a tee.
P.S
If you want to imitate Kelly's beach style (and let's be honest, this is usually what we see her in!) you'll need to grab a mismatched bikini set like this one
Glamour have done it again! Remember a few weeks ago when we wrote about the American Glamour featuring a model who was *gasp* over a size 10? The feedback was so positive that they decided that using 'plus sized' models was something they should do more often.
In the November issue of American Glamour, a photo shoot has been organised featuring several curvier girls, stark naked. Lizzie Miller is back and joined by Amy Lemons, Ashley Graham, Kate Dillon,CrystalRenn, Anansa Sims and Jennie Runk. Glamour editor-in-chief Cindi Leive has recently written a piece on her blog, about the magazine's push towards 'a push for body image revolution. They're not the first company to do this, Dove have been running a campaign for a while now to feature more real woman and less airbrushing and severe dieting. It is encouraging however to see such an influential media body make a move towards this improved vision.
The depressing thing is, the definition of 'plus size' seems to be moving in the opposite direction to Glamour's positive steps. Genevieve Field, who wrote the accompanying article to the naked photo shoot, stated that anyone over a size 6 is now considered to be a plus size model as designers only send out samples in sizes 0-4.
Glamour are aiming to use bigger models in more of their pages, including their fashion and beauty features. I'm really impressed with this move, but I hope it's not just a gimmick or their attempt to jump on this season's bandwagon. With the media and beauty industry getting behind a more varied selection of models, could we now be seeing more high end designers creating ranges that go above a size 6? The high street can, so why can't they?
Nigella Lawson is the woman that completely embodies the term Domestic Goddess. For those of you who aren't familiar with who Nigella is (where have you been??), this is a lady who turned cookery shows on their head and makes them, dare I say it, sexy. Cooking meals that look gorgeous and taste delicious, Nigella doesn't shy away from tasting her food. All that tasting means she's no size zero, but this has actually led to her being upheld as a sex symbol in the ranks of other
voluptuous women like Marilyn Monroe.
Nigella's body shape is a classic hourglass shape. Blessed with curvy hips and a sizeable chest, Nigella dresses to maximise her body shape. So how can we steal her style?
Nigella has always been a fan of Westwood designs, and reportidly purchased 12 identical dresses from designer Katya Wildman who has a similar style. For us ladies who don't have the budget for Westwood or Wildman, there are plenty of sexy dresses that flatter curves. The key here is to get a dress that nips in at the waist, and showcases your boobs!
This Alexis Tailored Dress will do exactly that, pulling you in and featuring a just below the knee pencil skirt to give you a great little wiggle. The dress was £89 but is now down to £62.30!
Wrap dresses are a great way to highlight a waist too, allowing you to tighten it as much as required. This Ruffle Wrap dress from Curvety is only £62 and is great for day to day wear.
Finally, if you really want to imitate Nigella's style, you'll want this Giovanna Dress. It will set you back £129, but it's very Jessica Rabbit and will definitely make you the centre of attention at any party!
What are you waiting for? Grab a wrap dress and a mixing bowl and get cooking!
Every girl needs a classic pearl necklace. A delicate silver chair is pretty important too. In fact, a capsule collection of jewellery should reside in every stylish ladies wardrobe. Why? Jewellery, along with shoes, are the only things that fit regardless of how much you weigh. They're great for decorating an otherwise boring black outfit. Plus a really bold piece can be a great ice breaker!
So what do you need? Well lets start with that pearl necklace. This set of pink pearls are a nice twist on the classic, and have the benefit of being guaranteed for 8 years. Great value for £29.99. If you prefer something a bit different, you might like this flower and bead necklace. Costing only £20, it combines floral detail with two sparse strings of pearls.
If you prefer something with a bit of colour, you'll like this purple bead set.The set includes a necklace in this season's hottest colour, and a matching pair of earrings, all for the same price as a top up for your phone.
A sexy pair of dangly earrings will add a spark of glamour to any outfit. These hoop and chain earrings are from Evans for £12 and will definitely catch someone's eye. I love these gold crystal hoop earrings too, priced at only £25. Perfect for a night of clubbing.
Finally you need a giant cocktail ring. The sparkly type you could have someone's eye with. They don't have to be expensive, as this cutout dome stone ring happily demonstrates. Costing just £20, the ring is decorated rhinestones and a big sparkly rock in the middle. This vintage looking flower stone ring from Evans is perfect for day to day wear too.
Next weekend I'm off to the Wedding Show in London with my sister who's looking for ideas for her wedding. It got me thinking about wedding dresses and what's available for women over a size 12. I've been flicking through magazines for ideas, and noticed that the options for plus size women are limited, and the styles seemed to be aimed at those with ultra toned arms and iron board flat tummies.
However, it seems there are some brands willing to cater for curvy ladies in the bridal department. Plus-size.me have a whole section dedicated to this quest. Curvety in particular have some great options, with both dresses and wraps for those conscious of their arms.
This Curvety dress is a halterneck style which is a ultra flattering style for bigger ladies. Flattering on the arms, boosts the boobs, and the detailing on the bodice draws all the attention to the top of the dress if you're conscious of your bottom when gliding down the aisle. It's £297, great value for a wedding dress, and Curvety have a service where they e-mail you for your measurements, so that the dress is tailor made for you.
Bridal outfits don't need to be restricted to one piece dresses though. Have you considered a skirt and top option? This bridal pencil skirt will go nicely with the suit jacket and a little silk camisole underneath like this silver camisole. There's a really nice longer length bridal skirt here that's worth checking out. Don't be afraid to look at bridal trouser options either, like these satin crepe trousers.
Finally, Evans have got this satin crepe stole, ideal for wrapping up when it gets a bit colder. At £25, it's a wrap you'll get a lot of wear out of, even after the wedding.
Browsing through my favourite fashion blogs, there seems to be one staple piece that everyone is snapping up after London Fashion Week: The Blazer. Crisps and tailored, slouchy boyfriend style or cropped, this is one item that will see you through the next 6 months in style.
I'm personally a big fan of the black tailored version, as it gives me the illusion of a waist (an area
most apple shapes like me have issues with!) and keep me warm without lugging about a heavy coat. I general like to wear it with skinny jeans and a statement t-shirt for a smart but funky look on a night out. This Changes by Together jacket is a similar style, and has the bonus of some sharp shoulder pads, another big trend for Winter. It's £50 and has a matching pair of trousers if you want the tailored look for work. This tailored smart jacket is a jacket that's a bit more budget friendly coming in at £21, and has a fabulous pink lining.
Prefer a looser style? Try this plus size charcoal boyfriend blazer. The light, casual fabric make it great for day wear, and the jacket features a contrast turn up detail on the sleeves to make it stand out from other similar styles. It's £45 from the Evans range.
Cropped styles are harder to come by, but this Jeffrey & Paula is a an amalgamation between the blazer and a warmer coat. I really like the way it ties tighter near the top of the mac, and then floats out below the bust. Layer it over some bootleg jeans and a longer length jumper, and then pop on a knitted scarf and hat to nail the layered look that revisits us every Winter. Cosy chic!
London Fashion week has come and gone and left us to ponder the trends we've been presented with for the rest of the season. Some of the trends were beyond bizarre (Preggings anyone?), and you get the usual winter trends cropping up that are best avoided (Tartan, I'm looking at you!)
One trend I can jump on board with is the Dogstooth pattern. Favoured by Alexander McQueen, the pattern is both classic and edgy, and will add a bit of 60's glamour to any outfit.
So how can you take the Dogstooth pattern from catwalk to canteen? Well you can start with this stunning Pencil Skirt from Evans. The detailed, small pattern is great for curvy shapes, and the snug fit and flattering length hugs all the curves and streamlines any bits you're not keen on. Add this ruffle shirt, another big trend for this season, for a chic secretary look, and these black Viva La Diva patent shoes, and you've got a smart but feminine look for work.
This gorgeous Pink Dogstooth Coat is glamorous and looks like the kind of coat Coleen Rooney might be wearing this winter. I have a similar shaped coat and it's really flattering as it flares out over the tummy, making the legs look slimmer too. This may not be suitable for ladies who are blessed with a big bust, as the high button neck is less forgiving. You can strut into work with this statement coat for £65 from Evans.
Remember with Dogstooth to keep all the other details of your outfit as simple as possible, in order to avoid a pattern clash. You can try a few bright accessories though, like a pair of bright red patent shoes, which will add to the classy feel of the outfit.
Denim jeans seem to be the wardrobe staple of every woman, and rightly so. Jeans can be dressed up or dressed down and the right cut can really flatter your figure. Saying that there are some occasions, such as work or a smart event, where you just need something a little softer and more streamlined. This is where tailored trousers come in.
Banish thoughts of stuffy suit trousers from your mind and embrace a chic pair of wide legged trousers. These Wide leg trousers from Marisota are the perfect example of a tailored pair of trousers. The wide length of the legs is flattering, whilst the structured
waistband holds in the tummy area. Pair with a pair of patent courts and a feminine blouse for a professional yet ladylike. They're a great investment for £25.
If you fancy a pair that will pull you in at all the right places, try these Magi Trim Bootcut Trousers. They're £20 and have a strengthened waistband which will streamline
your silhouette without making you feel uncomfortable. They also come in a contemporary striped design, which would look fabulous with a tucked in black shirt and patent waist belt. This style is £30.
These bootcut trousers are the ones you'll need for corporate events, but I can them them going nicely with quite a few evening tops too, perhaps for a night on the cocktails. They're £25 from the Marisota range, who do seem to have the best selection of smart tailored trousers on the site.
Finally if you can't quite bare to part with your denim basics, consider this pair of Farrah Wide leg jeans. Wide enough and made of a dark enough fabric to look smart, whilst the high waistline brings an on trend edge.
For far too long in the UK size 12+ women have effectively been outcast from the mainstream fashion industry as a result of "thin is best" culture. It's good therefore to see a glimmer of this changing with the advent of plus size models at London Fashion Week.
Unfortunately though it seems that one step forward is quickly followed by one step back as a "stylist" employed by Designer Mark Fast argued with her boss that his decision to include plus size models wasn't a good idea. Later she said the row was regarding the way the size 12 to 14 models "walked" along the catwalk, though to observers this seems somewhat of a backtrack to save face.
As regular readers will know, at Plus Size Me we have always been passionate about plus size fashion, whatever your definition of it is. We believe that models of all shapes and sizes should be included in London Fashion Week (and other fashion extravaganzas!!!) though obviously Designers in the UK also need a culture change in order to encourage them to produce good quality fashion for everyone, not just stick thin women.
A quick glance at the London Fashion Week website suggests there's a long way to go in terms of representing "normal" sized women. All of the women showcased on the website are very (too?) slim. Not one normal sized/shaped woman. It's fair to say that London Fashion Week is not representative of average women in the UK and simply pandering to the needs of stick thin culture which has developed within the UK's fashion industry.
What the UK needs is a few more radical and common sense designers such as Mark Fast who is clearly happy to be radical and buck the "skinny is best" trend.
Unless you live under a rock, you'll have noticed all the adverts, magazine features, and ratings speculation that has been going on about the start of Strictly Come Dancing and the ensuing battle against X Factor.
X Factor draws in the viewers for the crazy contestants, and rumoured feud between teeny tiny judges Danni and Cheryl. For Strictly, it's all about the sparkles and the slip ups.
Sequins are a great way of adding a bit of occasion and drama to an outfit. Whilst the sparkles of Strictly can be pretty full on, there are more subtle options to wear on a day to day basis. This Black Glitter Sequin T-Shirt is £29.50 and comes in a flattering cut to skim over your curves. Team it with skinny jeans and killer heels for a clubbing look.
This sequin dress is perfect for a nice meal out, with black tights and some platform shoes. A shift dress is a great dress for most body shapes as you can belt it in if you're a pear shape, or use it to showcase your legs if you're an apple shape.
Beth Ditto loves a bit of sparkle too, and has designed this Geo Sequin Prom Dress for her Evans range. It's priced at £60 and it's my favourite piece from her range as it's so wearable.
Accessories are a great way to add a bit of sparkle too without going the whole hog. This black sequin beret is £12 and would be especially cute around Christmas. These little pewter stud pumps are great for day, and then these T Bars are perfect for the night.
Now you've got the outfit, all you need to do is watch the show to pick up the dance steps!
In the last year I've finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a freelance writer and, more importantly, finding a job where I can spend my working day in my pyjamas. I love my pyjamas. They're comfortable, cosy, and I don't feel any need to conform to the usual standards of fashion in them. It's also one of the only pieces of clothing that I don't mind going up a size or two for, to make them really comfy!
This pack of 2 pyjamas is £20, and comes in one plain set and one star patterned shape. They're cotton and have an elastic waist for those days when you want
to pig out on a takeaway. These are the pyjamas that Bridget Jones would be stocking up on, though I can see her loving this "Still Waiting" set too, which is priced at £14.
Fancy a set that's more sexy than slouchy? Or just fancy the cute postman? Try these satin knickers for £15, and this satin camisole for £13. As the colder nights draw in, you might want to invest in this nightie and robe set to keep a bit warmer. I have images of swanning about the house in these with a cup of coffee and some classic literature. I don't even drink coffee, and the nearest I've ever come to classic literature is a bit of Shakespeare at school. The satin robe and nightie set is £39.99.
Nightshirts are a great alternative to pyjamas and many women feel a bit more comfortable sleeping in them. This £7 v-neck nightshirt is lightweight and loose, and the cute logo gives it a fun edge.
Lastly, you'll need the two slobbing out basics: slippers and a dressing gown. This towelling dressing gown is £19 and these ballerina slippers are adorable and only £10.50.
Being a Reality TV addict, I've been tuning in each weekend to watch thousands of hopeful and hopeless singers belt out amazing/horrendous versions of Mariah Carey/Girls Aloud songs to the panel of "musical experts". I tend to tune into the ITV2 Xtra Factor more than the ITV show as the cliche comments and sob stories start to grate on me after a while!
The ITV2 show is presented by Holly Willoughby, whose style I have been admiring for a few years now, as she buzzes around the audition rooms interviewing the weird and wacky people who turn up. Although she's not exactly "plus size", she is curvy and really embraces those curves in flirty tea dresses, a style us plus size ladies can definitely adopt.
This floral prom dress http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=619345707 is very similar to a dress I saw Holly wearing on the show a couple of weeks ago with black tights and some cute patent heels. The print is tame enough to wear into Winter with a little cream cardigan, and is especially flattering for pear shapes as it pulls in on the top half and then flows out over the bum and thighs. It's only £25 too which is a bit of a bargain for such a classic item.
This purple printed longline top http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=656918673 is £35 and could be made really funky with a tan waist belt, a pair of leggings, and either some gladiator sandals if the weather is nice or some killer heels if we have our usual British weather.
Finally, we've got this rose print dress http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=MK456NO at £24.50 which is casual enough for day to day wear but tame enough in print to be adapted with accessories.
Marilyn Monroe once famously sang "Diamonds are a girls best friend". Which was wrong. Shoes are. Shoes always fit, even on a fat day. High heeled shoes make you feel taller and sexier, whilst a funky pair of flat sandals can make a
normal outfit look at the height of fashion.
I think every girl needs 5 essential pairs of shoes in their wardrobe (I have well over 70 but it's my little addiction!)
Black High Heels
I probably have 10-15 pairs of black high heels in patent, suede, peeptoe, and sling back. I'm considering adding these to my collection though http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=643527503 as they're
classic yet have a little quirky detail with the bow detail (which is going to be big in the coming months) the heel height is comfortable, perfect for work and after work drinks, and the price is purse friendly too at £30.
Sandals
With the popularity of wedges and gladiator shoes in recent years, the trusty going out sandal has been somewhat confined to the back of the wardrobe. I would encourage everyone to have a pair though as they're much more delicate and therefore more suitable for posh evenings out and family events like weddings. These ones http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=643527087 are not only classic, but also really flattering as the strap cuts across the foot rather than the ankle. This makes legs looks much longer and more slender.
Knee High Boots
So, knee high boots tend to be a bit of a bug bear for us plus size ladies. Ever drooled over a gorgeous pair in a shop window, gone in to try them on, and then suffered the embarrassment of the zip not doing up over your calves? Me too. Thankfully Plus-Size.me stock boots from Evans, like these gorgeous black ones http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=503543581. The boot is made of a stretch material and is aimed at ladies with a wider calf. They're £70, which is great for a pair of real leather boots that you can wear over and over again.
Flat Shoes
These are kind of self explanatory, but flat shoes don't need to be overtly casual or dull. These ballerina pumps http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=647098439 are not only comfortable, but they're pretty enough to wear with skirts or wide legged trousers. They are £18 from the Evans range.
Fold up Shoes
Fold up shoes are relative newcomers to the shoe world, but I can't believe it's taken so long for someone to invent them! The shoes, from Redfoot, are creased along the middle so you can fold them up and pop them in the little bag in your handbag. I've use them after nights out, commuting to work and as gifts for friends. These black ones are adorable and only £29.99 http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&AY335LM .
The name Lizzie Miller may not be a household name here in the UK, but in America she's fast becoming a role model for 'plus size' women after appearing naked in the September issue of Glamour magazine. Lizzie, who is a USA size 12 (UK size 14) is one of the most popular plus size models in America, but the appearance of a plus size model in a fashion magazine is a new development for plus size women in the media.
Most fashion magazines favour models with jutting hip bones and washboard stomachs over those with curvy bottoms and womanly hips. Lizzie is a nice example of an obviously stunning woman who has a bit of a tummy and some great curves.
The problem I have is that the media consider Lizzie to be a ’plus size’ model. The average dress size in the UK is a size 14-16, which means she’s actually ’average’. Personally, I think she looks more like a size 10, so is it advisable to be holding her up as a role model to plus size women when, strictly speaking, she’s not?
I’d love to see some more models in the media who are actually a plus size, which tends to be a size 16 plus, to give both young and older ladies a great role model to look up to. There are plenty of ladies around, like Mia Tyler, who are plus sized, gorgeous, and able to strut the catwalk with confidence. Unfortunately, they only seem to be in the media as a special feature, rather than commonplace in fashion pieces.
I applaud Glamour magazine for featuring a model larger than a size 8. However I still think there are steps to be taken in featuring actual plus size models. Plus size women need role models to look at and think “I could wear that”, not “if she’s plus size, what am I?”
One of the UK’s most popular role models for plus sized ladies, despite the last year being a little rocky, is Fern Britton. She’s probably a controversial choice, but I think she’s got great style whether she’s a size 12 or a size 22. The ex-This Morning presenter has always had the fun and classy sense of style that suits her bubbly personality so well.
Fern has certain key wardrobe items that she wears, regardless of what dress size she is. These items form a great basis for a ‘capsule wardrobe’, allowing you to mix and match each pick to get as much our of your wardrobe as possible on a budget.
Fern has always been a fan of the shift dress and jacket or cardigan outfit. This outfit is ideal for streamlining and flattering curves. This classic black dress (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=587451) is £63.20, and is the kind of basic black shift dress that Fern could wear for day and night TV presenting.
This gorgeous floral print jacket, £99 (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=13130794) is the jacket you will need to take the black dress from day to night, and is a really great individual statement piece.
For a more casual look with a flash of colour, you could use this berry coloured cardigan (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=23511214). The waterfall detail at the front of the cardigan skims over tummies, and it’s ideal for anyone who’s not completely confident of their arms.
Finally, for an evening do, this glamorous evening dress: (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=585717) is the kind of outfit Fern could wear for showbiz events, and us normal ladies can wear for a swanky night out. It’s especially flattering to those who have an hourglass or pear shaped figures. This wrap goes nicely with the dress style ( http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=39920263)
Katie Holmes is obviously not your average style icon for a plus size girl. She's tall and slender, although this is completely natural. Just check out an old VHD of Dawson Creek! However, she does have amazing style, both glamorous and classy. She's been seen recently in lots of one shoulder dresses, which is a popular trend for the summer. It's great as well for ladies with bigger chests, who shy away from strapless tops.
Plus-Size.me has the perfect selection of outfits for anyone wanting to adopt a slice of Katie's sophisticated style.
This black and pink dress, http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=41461025, not only adopts
the one shoulder style, but also adds a funky twist with the pink details. It's in the sale now for £10 too!
Don't fancy going the whole hog with a dress? How about this classic black one shoulder jersey top http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=AV116ML, costing £18. The gathered detail on the bust is flattering and the rest of the fabric floats nicely over the tummy area. Perfect for hitting the dancefloor with a pair of high heels and bootcut jeans. If you're more than confident enough to fully embrace the one shoulder
trend, then why not try this all in one catsuit, http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=AV065MJ, prices at £27.50. Slip on a pair of sparkly sandals and a little bit of bling and you're ready to party!
A more casual look can be achieved with this t-shirt, http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=619754919, £15. I love
this t-shirt and would wear it slouchy over a pair of skinny jeans or leggings.
Chesca is one of newest partner websites and as you can see from this amazingly stylish and chic dress, they offer some fantastic plus size fashion.
Effortlessly chic, this 100% silk/satin bead embellished dress needs no introduction. Forever timeless, it's a sure winner whatever the occasion. Add emphasis with matching silk/satin shawl or matching silk waterfall jacket with satin trim. This flattering black dress is perfect for gala nights and will remain a favourite in your wardrobe.
Fashion trends can range from those that come and go in the blink of an eye, like the recent resurfacing of the double denim look, to trends like Ugg Boots which last for several years. One trend everyone seems to be talking about, and all the fashion houses are stocking, is Purple.
The funkier cousin of pink and blue, Purple is a trend that was forecast to be popular last year, and is a flattering colour for most skin tones and body shapes.
Here are a few of my favourite picks from Plus Size me that perfectly capture the Purple theme.
This dress (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=48184901) is an easy way
to achieve the trend for an event or a night out with the girls. The V-neck and ruched waist detail are really flattering, especially for pear shapes. You can grab it for £25.
This Purple Heart Bag (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=48212803) is not only spot on with the colour, but also has beautiful detail in the heart shaped texture. Considering this detail, it's a bargain at £15.
Accessories are a great way of updating an outfit on a budget, and these Purple Multi Bangle Set, £15, are eye catching and alsoincorporates the multi-bangle style that is due to be big in Autumn/Winter (http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=643527955)
Finally, every girl needs a great pair of purple shoes. These purple Viva La Diva bar shoes are the perfect mix of on trend fashion and comfort, and they're a bargain at £20.
We are pleased to announce that we have now extended our range of lingerie and nightwear products by including garments from Feminine Plus. To celebrate this exciting addition to our site we are offering you a saving of 10% off!
Simply enter our exclusive code PLUSSIZEME09 when you reach the checkout section on the Feminine Plus website and you will automatically receive the 10% discount. The code will be valid until the end of September.
What is Feminine Plus?
Feminine Plus was founded in 2004 by Jennifer Willis and is an independent online boutique, specialising in beautifully-made, stylish and classic lingerie, for any occasion (sizes 14-34).
Since 2004 the business growth has been phenomenal and demand for our exclusive ranges has grown rapidly.
Jennifer Willis, the founding member of Feminine Plus says, “We are sending our lingerie all over the world and we have thousands of satisfied and returning customers.”
Feminine Plus has always been committed to offering great quality lingerie, that not only looks fabulous and feels wonderful, but provides an exceptional fit, whatever the size.
They hand-pick all their garments, ensuring that the fabrics used are always soft and sensual, and the cut is always stylish and flattering. Many of their pieces are exclusive to Feminine Plus and they’re constantly extending and updating their range, both in response to new design, fabric and manufacturing techniques, and what they know their customers love to wear.
What makes Feminine Plus different?
Unlike many large retailers, Feminine Plus is in a unique position to be able to establish relationships with their customers and respond to what they want. Whether it’s a wider range of well-cut long slips or more nude bras in a 40 DD, they can react quickly to all feedback and try their best to find exactly what their customers are looking for.
The brands they offer are all well-established and chosen because of their exceptional design and quality. Feminine Plus’s philosophy is not about quick, cheap, throwaway fashion, but about stylish designs, which stand the test of time, but don’t cost a fortune. For Feminine Plus, quality is all about great use of fabric and not cutting corners when it comes to the perfect fit.
SAVE 10% OFF your orders with Feminine Plus by entering our exclusive discount code PLUSSIZEME09.
Presenter of Location, Location, location and thinking man's crumpet Kirstie Allsopp is a lady who knows how to dress her curves impeccably. Embracing sexy pencil skirts, skyscraper heels, and fitted v-neck jumpers, Kirsty exudes professionalism when showing picky buyers around potential homes, and yet maintains a sense of fun, thanks to her banter with co-presenter Phil Spencer.
Kirstie’s fabulous style can easily be replicated, and luckily Plus Size.me is there to help us find the ideal wardrobe additions.
The first thing you need is a great statement dress. Kirstie’s style harks back to the 1950’s glamour movie stars, playing up her hourglass figure. This dress: http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?id=585709 is perfect, with the eye catching red colour, curve flattering ruching, and great long sleeves. You can dress it up with a sparkly clutch and sandles, or make it suitable for work with a black suit jacket and black knee high boots.
The next thing you need is a classic pair of black patent heels like these http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?id=41273586 for only £30, which are comfortable enough for work without looking clumpy. They comes in red too, which goes nicely with the statement dress mentioned before.
Finally, you need a handbag that screams power whilst maintaining femininity, just like the lady herself! This bag http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?id=46007362 is a gorgeous black patent bag from Fiorelli, great value at only £49.
It’s also the perfect size for the essentials every girl needs, a red lipstick, Blackberry, diary and a deep thinking novel /trashy chick lit.
Be warned though, you may find yourself with a fair number of admirers after trying out this style!
Every great plus size girl needs a wardrobe based on several undergarments to flatter their curvy silhouette. A great vest top, uplifting bra and slimming pants will really showcase your figure.
Plus Size Me has a great selection of vest tops, and this two pack are my favourite for only £35. http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=HJ746XD Featuring support and control panels, they suck in the tummy and boost the bust! They’re also great for wearing under v-neck tops and dresses if you don’t want to flash too much cleavage. This pack comes in two colours, black and oyster, and ranges from a size 12 to a size 34.
Next on the list is a great bra. Obviously a girl cannot live on one bra alone, so along with the sexy bras, sports bras and strapless bras, you will need a decent all round t-shirt bra. This set of 2 bras http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=CA189XD is only £21. The seamless cups and three-position back fastening makes it a versatile bra for wearing with vest tops, racer backs and evening outfits when you don’t want any tell tale outlines.
Finally, and there is no delicate way of saying this, you need big pants. Big pants are perfect for sucking everything in so you don‘t have to worry about sucking your tummy in all the way through a posh meal. This two pack http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=17275102 is only £14 from Evans range. Alternatively, if you prefer something slimming yet sexy, this Basque is for you. http://www.plus-size.me/detail.php?kw=&id=40565676. Offering slimming panels at the front, along with great cup support, it’s definitely a great way to slip into that dress and impress!
Dressing for work can be a bit of a nightmare, on the same scale as shopping for school uniforms for kids or finding the perfect little black dress. Many businesses have fairly vague work wear guidelines, making it difficult to know whether you should be turning up in a full suit and heels everyday, or whether a smart pair of jeans and blouse will do. Finding a different outfit for each day can also be difficult, particularly when you work 5 days a week.
Generally speaking, one item you should always invest in for work is a decent fitting shirt. A properly fitted shirt can look fantastic with jeans, tucked into a 50's skirt for after work drinks or worn under a suit jacket for important meetings. Finding a perfect shirt can be
difficult though. Ladies with larger chests usually find it a bit of a mission finding one that doesn't result in a shirt button flying off during a presentation, or putting up with the embarrassing gap between buttons. I for one have fallen victim to both of these wardrobe malfunctions!
Plus-Size.me has this fantastic shirt in stock, made specifically for women with curves. The shirt features well-places front and back darts to not only create a slimming, tailored silhouette, but also avoid inadvertently flashing your colleagues. The shirt nips in the at the waist, giving a classic hourglass shape. It's available in sizes 16-32 and is a great investment at £54.
The benefit of this shirt is its variability and its classic style. The shirt could be worn with this Curvy Pencil Skirt for a sexy Secretary look for £53. Layer it with this smart waistcoat for a funky but modern look for only £25. For general practical work wear, grab these trousers for only £9.
The beauty and fashion industry upholds a variety of celebrities as ‘role models’ for young women. Kate Moss, Heidi Klum, Jordan and Twiggy are all hailed as inspirational. What about a role model for those of us over a size 12? Luckily we do have some plus size ladies who set examples to aspire to.
Charlotte Coyle
Charlotte is a plus-sized model from Northern Ireland, who does more than strut the catwalk. Charlotte recently came up with the concept for “Fat Beauty Contest” a channel 4 documentary for Britain’s first beauty contest for plus-sized women.
Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is not only an Acadamy Award nominated actor, but also an accomplished musician, model and presenter. She has been the celebrity spokesperson for Covergirl Cosmetics, and Curvation ladies underwear. Her popularity is proof that fitting into a sample size is not the only requirement to continues success.
Oprah
The lady who requires no second name is not only a role model for plus size ladies, but also for women in general. Oprah has been open about her struggle with maintaining a steady weight, and has recently graced the cover of her own magazine ‘O’ admitting a weight gain from 160 lbs to 200 lbs. However, weight issues have not held her back, and she has a huge empire including a TV show, radio show, magazine, Broadway musical and has helped launch the careers of Dr. Phil McGraw and Rachael Ray.
Mia Tyler
Recognise the surname? Mia comes from a family filled with celebrity royalty, including her half sister Liv Tyler and her Dad, Steven Tyler from Aerosmith. Mia is primarily a plus size fashion model and designer, but has also appeared in several TV programs and films. Mia has come from a difficult background including eating disorders and drug issues, but now concentrates on promoting a healthy body acceptance.
As usual, we’re enjoying a typical British Summer. By which I mean 5 days of rain and then a random blisteringly hot couple of days. Getting out of bed each day involves a complicated decision of what to wear; Sandals and a summer dress, or waterproofs and an umbrella? I’ve spent the last 2 months carrying everything but the kitchen sink in my bag, 'just in case'
One thing I always take with me is a black wrap. Perfect for popping on over a summer dress or jeans and top, it looks stylish and sophisticated. More importantly, it’s lovely and cosy. This essential item will keep you warm during the colder evenings. It’s also perfect for glamming up a day outfit if you’re off out for dinner.
The wrap is really flattering, floating over the arms and creating a waterfall effect on the front. For anyone conscious of their tummy area, or have enjoyed a decadent meal out, this is perfect. The length of the wrap is suitable for most outfits, and black goes with pretty much everything.
It’s also light, and easy to just roll it up and pop it in your bag. Much better than dragging a coat around all day!
This black wrap is from Evans, and is a bargain for only £25.
Finally, the best reason of all to buy this wrap? It’ll cover up those embarrassing strap marks from those blistering hot summer days when you’ve forgotten your sun cream!
As the weather hots up so does the range of fantastic plus size fashion from Yours! In this particular lush garment, the hottest geometric print of the season meets the flattering 'tulip' shape perfectly in this gorgeous dress. With lots of draped jersey material ensuring a flattering fit and a FREE elasticated belt to clinch in your waist, this dress was made for curves!
Sizes 16-32
It's that time of year again, when weekends are filled with trips to churches, hotels and registry offices with a bag full of confetti to witness the union of two people in love. Wedding Season! These two little words tend to strike fear into most wedding guests. What do I wear? Do I need to buy a different dress for each wedding? What if it's a day wedding and an evening reception?
The solution is a versatile dress which can be adapted for all occasions dressed up for the evening and doesn‘t cost a ridiculous amount. Luckily, the lovely people at Plus-Size.me have bought this gorgeous dress from Mairsota to my attention. At a bargain price of £19.50, down from £45.50, this stunning ruched dress is made to flatter curves and give the impression of an hourglass figure.
The sleeves are well placed to skim the top of the arms, a flattering cut, and the band underneath the bust pulls in the fabric and allows it to float over the tummy area. The length of the dress is great as it cuts off just below the knee, giving the illusion of long slim legs. The neckline is fab for those ladies with fuller busts, showing a hint of cleavage without flashing too much!
This dress can be adapted by adding a waist belt, a statement necklace, a blazer or a sparkly bolero. I’d wear it with gladiator sandals during the day, and either patent black high heels or some gold strappy sandals in the evening.
In fact, I’d say this is a staple dress every girl needs, a flattering twist on the famous little black dress. It also comes in a funky mocha colour, and is available in sizes 14-32.
The month of July tends to indicate the start of the British Summertime, bringing with it festivals, BBQ’s and evenings in the pub, rejoicing at the introduction of the beer garden. Currently my wardrobe is replicating that of the one depicted in Narnia, e.g. all thick coats and cosy boots. Obviously, this is not suitable for a day walking along the beach or enjoying Pimms on a Sunday afternoon.
I need to update my wardrobe with something on trend, suitable for day-to-night wear, and girly. Also, bearing in mind the average British summer lasts….oooh 2 weeks on average, I need something that I can layer for the colder months.
Thankfully www.Plus-size.me have come to the rescue with this gorgeous vintage looking tea dress. This dress combines the trends of 40’s chic and floral, a massive trend that is going to continue through to Autumn/Spring 2010. Glastonbury this year was packed full of floral dresses, on celebrities including Nicole from Girls Aloud.
The angel sleeves are perfect, as I often find summer dresses tend to just have thin straps, which is only really suitable if you have the arms of Jennifer Aniston. The dress falls just below the knee, at the most flattering point. I love the ribbon sash, which is perfect for faking a waist, if you’re an apple shape like me.
I think it will look really cute with gladiator sandals during the summer, than with a cream or brown cardigan and pearls when the Winter months creep back in.
The best thing about this dress? It’s available in lots of sizes, all the way up to a size 32. At only £60, it’s fantastic value for money, and a great way to upgrade your wardrobe
This loveley dress, in cool chiffon which skims curves and ensures ultimum comfort. This beautiful maxi dress is as practical as it is stunning. The palm print in greens and blues is right on trend. The perfect dress for any wedding, party or event this summer.
For the past few years, a debate has been raging regarding size zero, and in particular the use of size zero models on catwalks and advertising campaigns. The debate has recently reignited with the editor of Vogue, Alexandra Shulman, accusing some of the world's leading catwalk designers of pushing ever thinner models into fashion magazines. Alexandra's main gripe centred on the supplying of "minuscule" clothes for their photoshoots, therefore giving the cast agents the only option of employing a size zero model to fit into them.
Over the last few years the size zero obsession has led to the eating disorders of countless models looking for work, and the death of three models through malnutrition. Recent steps, such as the decision by some leading fashion shows to ban size zero models, has moved towards a healthier approach to what a model should look like. However the big fashion houses are still churning out the tiny sizes for clothing.
Where did this idea that jutting cheekbones and visible ribs are fashionable and sexy? Back in the 40's and 50's it was sexy to have curves. Marilyn Monroe, was famously a size 16, and had no end of admirers. Even in the 70's and 80's, curvy women were popular. The 90's bought forward the fashion for 'Heroin Chic', sunken cheeks and slicked back hair. But it has only been in the last 10 years that the fashion has really turned towards skinniness, with celebs taking extreme risks to become as skinny as possible. This in particular is scary, when these young women are role models. Wouldn't we rather have role models like Catherine Zeta Jones and Oprah, over Lindsey Lohan and Katie Price?
The reality? Women look younger, sexier, and happier when they eat more than a cracker a day.
Our new plus size fashion website (www.Plus-Size.me) has recently launched promoting plus size fashion to the masses. We have taken all the latest fashion from the UK’s leading plus size fashion retailers and placed it on website, making the job of finding that next killer wardrobe addition, so much easier!
To compliment our fantastic store front we have a blog and news section which we would like to fill with plus size fashion related news, stories, reviews and pretty much anything that is related to plus size fashion.
If you would like to see your work published and credited on a high profile fashion website, please get in touch by emailing
info@plus-size.me
Get a hot fashion piece with this gorgeous tunic. Featuring crochet trim, which gives it a folklore look and in flattering black, this is a really pretty piece. Featuring short sleeves and gathering under the bust, the fabric skims the body and creates a slimming, streamlined effect. The top is an attractive, longer length and is made from a comfortable, stretch jersey fabric.
How about this for fantastic value....two trends in 1, with this gorgeous plus size coral tunic. This amazing top has crochet trim, which gives it a bit of a folklore look and one of the hot colours of the moment coral. Featuring short sleeves and gathering look under the bust, the fabric skims the body and creates a slimming, streamlined effect. This top is an attractive longer legth and is made from a comfy stretch jersey fabric.
As you fashion guru's will no doubt already be aware, colour blocking is a major trend right now and this stunning one shoulder dress shows how flattering this style can be. With a clever knot in the centre of this jersey dress, curves look sculpted and smoothed and the body elongated. The black and hot pink contrast is vibrant and full of fun. Team with leggings for the perfect saturday night outfit!
Cobalt is this seasons hottest colour and with the most flattering neckline this top is perfect for the fantastic hot summer we are going to have this year. It's fantastic value for money at only 12 quid and is available from Yours website right now, simply click the image opposite to be taken directly to the Yours website to see more images of this amazing garment.
For those walks to the beach bar and for keeping you cool in the sun this 100% cotton blue flower print cover-up is easy to slip on over any beach outfit. The vibrant blue border pattern adds some extra colour to your look.
This product was originally 28 quid, so is now a complete bargain at only a fiver!
We are pleased to announce that we have just added a new retailer into our range of products, the online giant Curvety.com. Curvety specialise in fashion designed to accentuate the curves of women in sizes 16 to 36.
We are pleased to announce that we have included a Bridal section within our website. Within this newly created category you will find beautiful plus size wedding dresses and bridal accessories from retailers such as Curvety.com and Evans.
The perfect minimalist dress with chic and sophisticated sheer sleeves and keyhole detail for the fashionista who believes less is more. The ballerina neckline with keyhole detail & 3/4 sheer sleeves paired with the sheer back detail which exposes keyhole, but covers bra and is perfect for the fuller figure. A flared, floor-length skirt and full lining finish the dress perfectly.
Betty Boop is hugely popular right now and here at Plus-Size.me we have the hottest designs at the lowest prices! We have now created a new category for the ever popular Betty Boop collections, currently available from Yours and Evans. Why not click the link and take a look?
Welcome to the first ever blog from Plus-Size.me. Having created what we feel is a unique website, by bringing you the latest plus-size fashion from a variety of quality retailers, we thought the next natural step was to create a blog to keep you up-to-date with the latest fashion trends. If you have comments about our site or indeed what you would like to see included on the site or the blog, please do not hesitate to contact us via email at info@plus-size.me.
In the last year I've finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a freelance writer and, more importantly, finding a job where I can spend my working day in my pyjamas. I love my pyjamas. They're comfortable, cosy, and I don't feel any need to conform to the usual standards of fashion in them. It's also one of the only pieces of clothing that I don't mind going up a size or two for, to make them really comfy!
This pack of 2 pyjamas is £20, and comes in one plain set and one star patterned shape. They're cotton and have an elastic waist for those days when you want
to pig out on a takeaway. These are the pyjamas that Bridget Jones would be stocking up on, though I can see her loving this "Still Waiting" set too, which is priced at £14.
Fancy a set that's more sexy than slouchy? Or just fancy the cute postman? Try these satin knickers for £15, and this satin camisole for £13. As the colder nights draw in, you might want to invest in this nightie and robe set to keep a bit warmer. I have images of swanning about the house in these with a cup of coffee and some classic literature. I don't even drink coffee, and the nearest I've ever come to classic literature is a bit of Shakespeare at school. The satin robe and nightie set is £39.99.
Nightshirts are a great alternative to pyjamas and many women feel a bit more comfortable sleeping in them. This £7 v-neck nightshirt is lightweight and loose, and the cute logo gives it a fun edge.
Lastly, you'll need the two slobbing out basics: slippers and a dressing gown. This towelling dressing gown is £19 and these ballerina slippers are adorable and only £10.50.
