The Curve Fashion Festival is happening soon and Debenhams will be there!

Hello everyone!

I know it's been quiet on here as of late while I make plans for website changes but I wanted to hop back on to let all of my lovely UK readers know, in case you aren't aware already, about The Curve Fashion Festival in partnership with New Look that is happening on Saturday, September 9th, 2017 at Exhibition Centre in Liverpool.

The day will run from 10am - 5pm and will be packed solid with fashion shows, and opportunities to meet plus size bloggers and influencers from all over. On top of that, all the best plus size brands will be on site showing off their newest collections and giving you a chance to shop. 

One of the brands, that I think many people don't realize carry a plus range, is Debenhams, and they will be present this year and are hoping to connect with loads of new customers who will help to grow the plus range. You can check out their plus size range here and of course, on the day at the festival. There will be models kitted out in Debenhams plus range all over the venue so you can see the pieces in real life on the day.

You can still get tickets and there are several different options in terms of price, which is amazing. I wish more than anything that I could be there this year, as I was lucky enough to attend 2 years ago prior to moving back to Canada, but sadly timing just hasn't been on my side this year.

Next year for sure! If you do go, please let me know how it is! I hear it's going to be the best one yet!

My Top 3 Dresses From Quiz Clothing

Hi everyone!

I'm back with a quick little wish list post from a brand that I am only just discovering! I've seen lots of lovely other bloggers wearing Quiz and have been totally in love with all of the looks. I really love their dresses in particular as they are really gorgeous and not crazy expensive. 

It's nice to have another great option to choose from online when looking for ready to wear but also very on trend clothing. I picked out my top 3 dresses right now, mixing it up with a beautiful red maxi dress, a feminine Bardot style tunic dress in baby blue and a trendy but also office friendly shirt dress

Curve Red Chiffon High Neck Floral Maxi Dress

Curve Blue Bardot Bow Detail Tunic Dress

Curve Navy And Pink Flower Embroidered Shirt Dress

Quiz is definitely a brand to watch was I think they are going to grow quickly and into a brand we will all be reaching for when we need an outfit for everything from work to big events.

For those of you not in the UK, they ship to Canada and you can shop in Canadian dollars - how amazing is that?!?!

Have you guys tried Quiz clothing yet? Do you have any favourites?

Dressing for Work with House of Fraser

Hey everyone!

So I survived my first week in my new office and I must say that adjusting to corporate life is not as easy as I thought. I have had to really think about my wardrobe everyday and so now I am on the hunt for office friendly outfits, in particular dresses, because they are my favourite, but that also allow me to still feel young and fresh. The chance of me wearing a pant suit is slim, as I just don't think they suit me so I like to stick to corporate friendly pieces that have fun colours and prints so I still feel like me. I thought I would put together a little wish list post of some of my favourite wants at the moment. I'm working with House of Fraser, as I love how I can find plenty of my favourite brands in one place, but also that there is a wide variety of sizing (and really good sales... shhh... our little secret!).

 

 

Linea Printed Woven Shirt Dress - I love this dress because I think it's fun and has a bit of disco vibe, but would also translate well into Fall with leggings, which is always a bonus!

Linea Flora PU Skirted Dress - This dress is just all around amazing, mainly because I can't resist a bit of pleather. I would wear this with epic statement jewelry and some fun flats or heels.

Elvi Water Colour Print Dress-  I love the flow of this dress, along with the delicate floral pattern. I also think the neckline is cute and different, making the dress a bit more special.

Studio 8 Otto Dress - I love the pattern and cut of this dress. It's both office appropriate but would also be cute for drinks out in the evening - a perfect transition piece! 

 

Do you work somewhere corporate? I would love for you to share ideas of your favourite outfits and your go to pieces that you can always count on. I feel like I'm building an entire new wardrobe!

 

Summer Footwear Wish List - Feat. Jones Bookmaker

Hi everyone!

So with a new job in the pipeline and my love for shoes still strong, I'm thinking I need to up my shoes game for the office. I don't want to lose the fun and freedom of my usual sandals, but still want to feel put together. My go to shop for a great mix of fun and sophisticated has, for the last couple of years been Jones Bookmaker. I like that I can get several brands including their own in one place and I find the sales are always really great as well.

I've put together a little wish list below of my ultimate Summer to office footwear along with Jones Bookmaker, my first paycheque better watch out! It's definitely going to be on my feet!

Gamine Smart Silver Flats via Jones Bootmaker - I love these silver flats because the straps give them a sandal feel while remaining fun and colourful but still office appropriate.

Ted Baker Loomi Smart Brogues via Jones Bootmaker - These brogues are amazing because they are fun and bright, still feeling like Summer but ultra smart.

Giselle Casual Athleisure via Jones Bookmaker - I love the suede and metallic mix on these and not to mention the platform - The would look so cool with cigarette pants or a midi skirt for fun!

Koi Wedge Heels Wedge Sandals Medium Heels - My favourite part of these sandals are the pastel colours but also that they look like nice and comfortable shoes. I could likely stand all day in these and still feel cute and put together.

So what do you think? What are you go-to shoe styles for Summer when you work somewhere corporate? I'm interested to know what others like as my new job is going to be the most corporate place that I have ever worked... roll on new experiences!

Polka Dots in Paradise

Good morning everyone!

So I finally have some great news! I am starting a new job next week and with this, a new wardrobe is the obvious next step... I think we can all agree! Over the last 7 months or so, working from home has been great, in terms of having my own time and being able to settle in to my new home, however, I found that it had a huge effect on my energy levels, excitement around clothing and getting dressed and just generally about how I was functioning. I am really looking forward to getting up everyday, putting on my makeup and picking out an outfit. I really miss that routine that I had back in London as I do love that entire morning process.

With this news, I am hoping that it will provide amazing opportunities for loads of blog photos and to go back to having a busy Instagram like I used to. I miss being on social media the way that I was before and am hoping to get back there with all of you asap. 

I wanted to start by sharing a little clothes story about a super cute dress that I received from Navabi a while back.

When I was browsing on Navabi's website, this little navy polka dot number from Zizzi, one of my favourite brands, caught my eye. I loved the print, and the fun yet sophisticated cut. I could immediately imagine myself wearing this dress out for fun, or with a blazer and pointed flats for work, and that to me is reason enough to own it- versatility is key!

When I received the dress at first, I put it on, and in all honesty I wasn't that into it. I let it hang in my closet and ignore it for a month until I gave it another try. The reason I am telling you all this story, is because sometimes it's not the clothes, but it's actually how I am feeling. The day that initially tried this on, I wasn't feeling great and so that feeling was projected onto this poor dress.

Today, I wear this dress 1-2 times a week - I can't get enough of it and here is why.

For starters, the obvious cute print and neckline is excellent for those of us who are bustier but would also work nicely on a smaller chest. I love that it has a little sleeve, so it feels office appropriate and also protects my delicate shoulders from the sun. Next, what you can't see, is that it's lined with a soft jersey fabric which means it feels so nice on the body. It's loose and doesn't cling but comfortable and fits right and true to size. I think we can all agree that there is nothing about this dress that isn't great.

I think you should all have it on hand for both work and play - I plan on wearing it to the office lots and also think that it will transition well into winter with a cardigan and tights.

You can find links on where to buy what I am wearing below the post. Unfortunately, my pineapple bag is last year's model from Primark, but I have found a similar one to link you. Also, my little green belt is one that I pinched off another dress so sadly I can't provide you with a link to that.

So how's that for a new outfit post, probably the first in a few months. Stay tuned for my exciting new work wear posts, along with a couple of fun lifestyle things too!

xoxo

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Just Keep Swimming... with Simply Be!

Hi everyone,

I'm making an an effort to write new posts for you as I slide back into blogging. Like I have mentioned, I haven't felt entirely myself lately but I'm feeling a bit more normal, certainly the sun outside is making things easier too.

For those of you who think that Canada is just a big old cold country, you are very wrong, we, especially here in Toronto suffer from some serious heat waves and this Summer is no exception. Today, I am couched with my computer in front of a fan so that I don't melt. All I can think about is going for a swim, which I am planning on doing later at a friend's condo, thankfully! 

What I am really looking forward to though, is heading over to the Toronto Islands which aren't far at all, and swimming in the lake. This is just such a Summer friendly activity and makes me want to have all the swimwear in the world.

Since I have been saving for my wedding though, I can't have all of the swimwear, but a girl can dream right? I have put together this adorable swim day wish list of all of my favourites from Simply Be, because they have such a great selection of plus size swimwear.

Siren Swimsuit - CurvyKate

Sunglasses - WildFox

Kaftan - Simply Yours

Platform Sandals - Vero Moda

At Simply Be, they are running a campaign around body confidence and as part of it they are offering loads of mix and match options. If you, like me, love the bikini tops with lots of support but then a mismatched bottom in a high waist then you can make all this happen now without breaking the bank! 

Long live Summer swims!

French Curves: Faux Fur

Hello everyone!

I am finally back with an outfit post - imagine that! Today is my favourite blog challenge, French Curves and the theme this month was faux fur. I have so many things in my closet that have little bits of faux fur so it was hard to choose what to wear but since it's so cold here, I thought a lovely snow filled outdoor post would be nice! 

Bonjour à tous!

Je suis enfin de retour avec un poste de tenue! Aujourd'hui c'est mon défi de blog préféré, French Curves et le thème de ce mois était fausse fourrure. J'ai tellement de choses dans mon placard qui ont de la fausse fourrure qu'il était difficile de choisir a quoi porter pour ma tenue, mais comme il fait si froid a Toronto, j'ai decide de faire des photos dans la neige.

My favourite winter coat is this black faux fur one from last season at Evans. It has felted sleeves and is lined with satin, so is warm and looks very chic. I also love the rounded collarless neck.

My bag is not faux fur but instead pink feathers so fun and furry in it's own way and I think it works.

Mon manteau d'hiver préféré c'est celui en fausse fourrure noire de la saison dernière à Evans. Il a des manches en cotton, et est vraiment chaud et l'air très chic. J'aime aussi que c'est sans col.

Mon sac est pas fausse fourrure mais des plumes roses placer de façons un peu comme la fourrure  et je pense que ca vas bien.

I always wear a fun scarf with this coat to jazz it up a bit and since it's pretty chilly this week, I also wore my Manitobah mukluks which are the most comfortable and cute boots that I have ever owned, I could live in them.

So how is everyone finding winter? This past week was -37 with the windchill - I'm lucky I didn't freeze! Thankfully it's warmed up a bit so we can enjoy all this amazing sunshine!

Je porte toujours un foulard avec ce manteau et comme il fait tellement froid cette semaine, j'ai mis mes mukluks (botes) de marque Manitobah qui sont les botes les plus confortables et mignons que j'ai jamais possédé, je pourrais vivre dedans.

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Beth Ditto Collection - It's Here!

When that first Beth Ditto tee shirt with Jean Paul Gaultier emerged online a couple of months ago, I remember thinking that if this is was a precursor of what was to come then we were in store for something pretty epic. Beth Ditto has wowed us many times in fashion and has broken down some pretty major walls for plus size folk everywhere and for that I am eternally in awe of her as a person and even more as an artist.

Beth Ditto is a force, she speaks for so many and really lives by her own advice, something that  I think a lot of people with her platform could do much better at.

Today was the big day, when Beth Ditto's collection was released and I am on the fence. I want to first say that I appreciate so immensely the hard work and passion that has gone into what she has released and the emphasis on ensuring that everything was made in the USA in an ethical way - this is huge for any collection of any kind. It's also an absolute triumph that it goes up to a US size 28 - this is basically unheard of so THANK YOU Beth for doing this for the plus size industry - for showing companies that it can be done!

There are pieces that I think are beautiful which I have included here and that I would love to have in my closet but I still want to address one thing that bothers me. I feel like the collection is very much catered to the typical plus size hourglass figure and I'm a bit sad about this.  I think the 70s vibe and prints are beautiful and lookbooks are really cool and on point. 

I guess what I am trying to get at in this post is that, I wish that I felt like how I did 5 or so years ago when I travelled to London from Paris to try on her second collection at Evans. I remember thinking, that this had never been done, and the cuts were versatile and interesting and the prints were a bit crazy - there was something for everyone. I realize that working with a large brand affords different options so I don't want to sound naive in my critique, I just expected something different in my mind based on a past experience.

I don't want this post to be negative because I want to recognize the achievement and incredible example that this epic collection is going to set for the industry but I also wanted to voice my thoughts on how I felt when it launched this morning. I'm just not sure if this collection sits well with what I feel like we were set up for, between the cuts and the cost, I'm just not sure.

I'm so glad to see that so many people are loving it and I can't wait to see people wearing it, perhaps it will push me to think otherwise! Regardless, thank you Beth for doing this for all of us!

Go check out the collection over on Beth Ditto's website!

Birthday Outfit Wish List

Happy Weekend everyone!

So my 27th birthday is in a couple of weeks and I have seen so many amazing things lately that I love, that it felt time to do a big delightful wish list of birthday wants. I love winter and snow but I am also really looking forward to Spring coming and to renewing my wardrobe and accessories with more fun and whimsical bits and bobs. I decided I would put together a little outfit for my birthday dinner out. 

I am obsessed with this Miss Mix-It Dress from Modcloth, it is so cute and fun! Ever since, Tanesha from Girl With Curves posted herself in it, I have been thinking about it! Since the weather is going to be a bit crap for the next little while, I would wear it with tights and these great Clarks Aldwych Wood Heeled Boots from Brantano. I love my Clarks, I don't care what anyone says, they are comfortable and cool and I will never stray! 

I think this adorable little beaded heart purse from Accessorize is a perfect match for the outfit - my birthday falls 4 days after Valentine's day, so it's the perfect excuse to carry heart print/shaped everything. Accessorize has the cutest little purses at the moment, I want one of everything!

To tie things together, I chose these gorgeous surprise zest earrings from Modcloth and this heart print (Kiev Cafe Cardigan from Modcloth) cardigan to keep warm.

I haven't made any concrete plans yet for my birthday but I'm hoping to go out for a nice meal and drinks, so this outfit should be perfect!

What do you all think? Is there anything you have been hoping for with Spring coming?

Dressing the Seventies with Simply Be

Hey friends,

So I've been "window" shopping online a lot lately, mostly due to the fact that I am trying to save money, so shopping isn't on the cards as much as I would like it to be. One of my most favourite trends that is making the rounds, is the seventies revival looks. I love all the fringes, faux suede, jewel and khaki tones along with the laid back but super chic feel that it all has. I decided to do a little roundup of some favourite bits and Simply Be have hit the nail on the head when it comes to getting the seventies look - no matter your style.

My favourite thing to come back is the flare denim and these cropped flares are so cute! I think they would look amazing with pointed flats or if you are feeling fancy, some heels.

Seventies lingerie is fun and flirty and has great deep v necks with lovely lace detailing. Simply Be actually have a blog post all about "How to dress like a pin-up" in seventies style, inspired by the Minx!'s (Jen Oaks') illustrations.

This simple and casual dress is completely turned into a fun and jazzy outfit by the bottom detailing. It's boho chic meets relaxed-sophisticated.

Simply Be has also got a great selection of wide fit heels with cute braiding details and fun colours too - to complete any seventies look that you are creating.

I'm trying to decide what I want most but I'm thinking those denim flares are calling my name - what do you all think? I think as Spring comes - when it finally does, we will be seeing so much more of this chic and fun seventies gear - I can't wait!

If you like any of these cute things that I have featured, see my shop this post below for links!

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Looking Cool When It's Cold Out

Hey friends!

So since arriving in Canada, I have been trying to settle in to a routine of some sort and it's actually a lot harder than I thought! One of my major distractions has been the freedom of going out to walk with my family's dog Toby. He is part hound and part mutt and loves nothing more than to run free in the woods and so that's where we take him. Whilst out galavanting, I thought I would take the opportunity to check out whether I had made a wise weather appropriate coat for Canada.

As the weather has started to get colder, my favourite cute winter coats were no longer cutting it, and I needed something that was warm, friendly for running about in and easy to clean, but of course, that still looked awesome. I went on a search and it was harder than I thought, because finding good quality and very warm coats in plus size is still difficult, even here in Canada.

I was really glad to find this Concept K two tone faux fur hood parka* from one of my favourite online shops, Navabi. This coat is an absolute must for anyone that spends time outdoors, lives somewhere that gets real cold but that also still wants to feel stylish and cool.

I have worn my new coat loads since the temperature dropped, including to an epic Christmas market with a giant tree,  and here are a few of my favourite things about it. It has a sort of faux-vest layer on the inside, which means that if you drive, you can unzip the actual coat for ease of movement, but still feel warm and cozy.

The two toned arms and body make it feel upscale and cool which is a nice touch. It has great deep pockets, a huge hood and good cuffs and neck coverage to shield you from the rain, wind and snow. You feel warm and safe in this coat - no amount of bad weather is going to leave you cold and wet - it's an absolute winner. I would recommend that you buy your true size, as I sized up and find it a bit big. I am wearing a UK 22 and have lots of room for layers and anything else I want to wear underneath.
Thank you again Navabi, for providing us with beautiful, practical, plus size garments - I know this coat will be in my wardrobe for several seasons, keeping me toasty.

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French Curves - The Statement Necklace

Hello!

So I haven't participated in a French Curves post in so long because life has been so busy! I am so  happy to be back, even if I am late with my post. The theme for January was "Statement Necklace" and I wore one of my absolute favourite ones.

Salut!

Donc, ca fait un moment que je n'ai pas participer dans les challenges French Curves parce que la vie a été tellement occupé! Je suis tellement heureuse d'être de retour, même si je suis en retard avec mon poste. Le thème de Janvier a été "Statement Necklace" et j'ai portait une de mes préférés.

This necklace is made of wood and is black on one side and silver on the other so I can wear it whichever way looks best with the outfit that I have on. It is adjustable in length too, so I can have it long and causal or high and tight with a blouse like here.

Ce collier est fait de bois et est noir d'un côté et argent sur l'autre, que je puisse porter le côté qui va la meilleure avec la tenue que je porte. Il est réglable en longueur aussi, donc je peut le porter long et relaxer ou serré avec une blouse comme ici.

I went out to celebrate my dad's birthday not long ago and wore this outfit - it feels comfortable on but looks chic and put together - the best of both worlds in my mind!

I absolutely love this long blouse from the new Dorothy Perkins plus size collection. For those who haven't tried it yet, this top is true to size and is a lovely soft and sturdy fabric.

Je suis sorti pour fêter l'anniversaire de mon père il ya pas longtemps et j'ai portais cette tenue - Je me sentait  à l'aise mais aussi très chic - le meilleur des deux mondes dans mon esprit!

J'adore cette blouse longue de la nouvelle collection grande tailles de Dorothy Perkins. Pour ceux qui ne l'ont pas encore essayé, ce top est bien taille et est une belle tissu doux et robuste.

Sweater/Chandaille - Evans | Blouse - Dorothy Perkins (Similar) | Leggings - New Look | Boots/Bottes - Jilsen | Necklace/ Collier - Taking Shape

So I am happy to be back with the French Curvettes after a long break. I am hoping my blog will be exciting and new with all of my new experiences in Canada. I am still missing London but I know there are so many exciting things to come this year!

Happy 2016 everyone!

Donc, je suis heureux d'être de retour avec les French Curvettes après une longue pause. J'espère que mon blog sera toujours interessante avec tous mes nouvelles expériences au Canada. Je manque encore de Londres, mais je sais qu'il ya tellement de belle choses à venir cette année!

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Livin' Lavitta Dolce!

Hello everyone!

I am back at last! It has been a crazy three weeks and we are finally done moving from London to Toronto. We are settling in and trying to get our lives sorted and back on track. Both Steven and I are on the job hunt and also trying to get to know Toronto again amidst the Christmas  and New Year excitement. I must admit, I am a little sad that there isn't much snow, but I know it will come.

Today I am sharing a lovely holiday outfit featuring a new plus size brand called Lavitta. The brand sells clothing from size 12-24 so a good size range but definitely room to grow. They have lovely pieces for the Christmas season and plenty of nice day wear as well.

I have been after a furry coat for ages now and when I saw this lovely silver faux fur coat, I couldn't resist. It is so soft and lovely but I would suggest that if you have larger upper arms to size up, as I am wearing a size 24 here when I would usually take a 22.
As soon as I put this jacket on, and paired it with my grey beret, I felt like I had stepped out of the 90s in the best possible way. At first, I had styled this jacket with a fancy skirt and top, ready for a proper evening out, but I decided that this jacket could do more than just the fancy night out that was expected of it. Why not take this epic silver faux fur number out on a more casual night and get lots more wear out of it?

I wore my favourite wellies (boots of the moment, due to all the rain and small amounts of snow) and black denim along with a sparkly, purple top  and my Skinny Dip mermaid bag to add some pizzaz.

Find what I'm wearing here:
Lavitta Faux Fur Jacket / Sparkly Purple Top / Black High Waisted Denim / Grey Pointed Wellies (Similar)
Grey Hat (Similar) / Mermaid Bag

Have you ordered anything from Lavitta? I know I have seen posts from other bloggers as well, so they are certainly coming on to the scene, so they are worth checking out.

See you shortly, as I will be posting lots in the next couple of weeks - what with all this time I have!

Up To Your Neck in New Look

Hello everyone!
So I don't have many posts left from my time in London but I am excited to share this one with you because I love layering for winter. I have never really been a turtleneck person but with these high necked wonders making a come back, I decided to give them another try.

I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised to find myself falling in love with my new and very cozy slouchy turtleneck jumper which turned out to be perfect for wearing in this somewhat balmy weather that we are having - both in London and now in Toronto too!

New Look has an epic selection in both standard and plus sizes for knitwear this season that is definitely worth checking out. This big slouchy collared black knit pull over feels chic and relaxed but also warm and cozy.

I paired my new jumper with a soft grey long sleeve shirt from Navabi, my favourite ripped black jeans from New Look and my Melissa wellies. I am also carrying my favourite bag of the moment from Joules - it's an adorable navy leather satchel.

A big sorry for the crazy hair in these photos, my last few days in London were mega windy!

Stay tuned for another couple of posts this week - I really miss being on here more and now that things have settled in, I am ready to get back to blogging more!

Happy Holidays!