The Em Edit

New Plus Size Brand - Want That Trend

Monday, August 22, 2016

NEW PLUS SIZE BRAND ALERT

Introducing for your delectation and delight: Want That Trend

Adolphe Floral Skater Dress* - We Want That Trend
Shoes - New Look (Similar here)

Want That Trend have recently taken a foray into the plus size world with a HUGE range of dresses in sizes 16 - 24, Seriously, there are more than 100 to choose from, all of which are chic, feminine and if they're anything like this one; incredibly easy to wear. Most importantly, they're all priced at around £23, which is unheard of for the majority of PS brands. I decided to go for the Adolphe skater dress due to the rich Autumnal print. GUYS I AM READY FOR AUTUMN NOW. Frankly, I miss my tights and am sick of having orange ankles THANK YOU.

I’ve said before that I’m not a fan of the skater dress shape but I honestly think I need to re-evaluate because this is the last in long line of dresses in this style that I’ve fallen for; Especially when they have an interesting sleeve like this one. These cap sleeves have some REAL height to them - Proper power shoulders, which is always a winner for me.

TALL LADIES, I was actually sent five dresses from Want That Trend and this was the only one which maintained my modesty, so I would very much suggest you check the length on the description (I didn’t do this – When will I learn?!?) WTT state the length of most items and I’ll definitely know for future that the 93cm+ dresses = Yes and the 90cm- dresses = Not unless I want to be arrested.

Other than length, the fit is fine; this is an 18 and although the fit is snug, (I’d say size up wherever possible) the arm holes, shoulder and back are accommodating, plus the scuba material allows for a bit of give if required - Just remember that patterns can fade when stretched! I also like that this is a dress I can just pull on over my head with a pair of tights and I'll immediately look work ready without messing about.

It’s always nice to be able to add another brand to the plus size list, especially when they're offering something that I've not seen anywhere else. I can't wait to see what's coming next from Want That Trend.

Em x

* Denotes items gifted for review - As always, opinions are my own.

A Warm Weather Jumpsuit with Simply Be

Saturday, July 23, 2016

ISN'T IT HOT?!?!

As such, I've been knocking about in this here Floral Jumpsuit from Simply Be, being an effortlessly cool flower queen, eating ice creams and sweating minimally wherever possible.

Tie Front Playsuit - Simply Be
Tan Ankle Boots - Simply Be
Tan Clutch Bag - Simply Be

Firstly: This print. Isn't it fabulous? I'm a big fan of a floral as you may have noticed in the past like a million times. I'm also very drawn towards all-in-ones in the warmer months because they're just so easy - This one has an elasticated waistband and buttons at the back, meaning that you can get out of bed, step straight into it and off you go (Sometimes I even brush my hair. Sometimes).

I think there's been a tendency for brands to think that a plus size jumpsuit has to be dramatically oversized, have a dropped crotch and basically be as close to a onesie as possible, I'm pleased to report that Simply Be do not prescribe to this. I sized up here - This is a size 18 and is a perfect warm weather fit (no sweaty gussets please) but otherwise the fit and style is .

The boots are also from Simply Be and may be a tad premature weather wise but are going to be ideal with my tights for Autumn (YES, I'm thinking about Autumn, as it is the most wonderful time of the year and frankly I'm bored of always having a hot red face right now) They're ever so terribly comfortable and I do not say this lightly, just like my face, my feet hate Summer; they like to be all folded up where nobody can see them.

How are you keeping cool at the moment? All advice greatly appreciated...

Em x

Plus Size Leopard - The New Look Midi Dress.

Sunday, July 17, 2016

I've been eyeing this New Look dress up for a while but when I saw the ever radiant Bethany from Arched Eyebrow wear an extremely similar frock SO successfully I realised the time had come to part with my dolla.

Leopard Print Midi Dress - New Look
Tan Suedette Ghillie Sandals - New Look
Turquoise Earrings - Gift, Ti Sento (similar)

Yes, I am posing in front of a "Cool" wall here. I needed to get as far away from my back garden as possible due to very nearly killing myself with weed/ivy and nettle removal. I've genuinely never sweated as much in my entire life. And the garden still looks crap. So I took myself off, ate a tenners worth of Taco Bell and leoparded it up in front of some cool things.

I love the neckline here - it's very similar to a slash neck, making it just that bit more glam. Added to the elasticated pleating, perfect length and sash belt, you have an extremely easy to wear and versatile Summer look.

I'm wearing the dress with my Tan Ghillie sandals; also from New Look and my very favourite turquoise teardrop earrings which were a 30th birthday present from my lovely mum and dad. Isn't turquoise wonderful? I feel like it's a neutral shade in the same way that leopard print is - meaning that it goes with EVERYTHING.

I'm on the look out for more Tshirt style midi dresses of this ilk, recommendations greatly accepted!

Em x

A Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe - The Warehouse Stripe Midi Dress

Thursday, June 30, 2016

It's time for Part Three of my Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe, which brings us to the fabulous, dream to wear; Warehouse Stripe Midi Pencil Dress.

Stripe Midi Pencil Dress - Warehouse
Sandals - Primark (Similar here)

What really sold this dress to me was the fit. This is an 18 and other than a little bit of bagging around the bottom (Goodness knows why, my ass is one of my more voluptuous regions!) it fits like an absolute dream. It's like it was made for my proportions - At 6ft it hits just the right place in the calf for a midi, the zip up back means that the bust and waist can fit snugly without pulling at the seams and the straps sit in exactly the same place as my bra straps - HURRAH!!!

This really is such a lovely dress to wear - It is a soft cotton which looks and feels more like a light linen. It's one of those "throw it on and you'll be fine" frocks. Plus: Pockets.

The only issue I did have with the dress is that the straps are attached at the back with buttons, not the strongest buttons may I add. Luckily my Mum is a dab hand with a needle because I very much needed stitching back into the dress on its second wear... beyond this, the quality is utterly excellent and I can see this being a dress that lasts me a really long time. Unless I spill more crap on it. Which I inevitably will.

Sadly, these old reliable Primark lace up sandals died on the last day of the holiday (Whilst I was out. It was great) so I have had to replace them with some very similar ones from New Look which are actually a tad more comfortable. Has anyone else found that they need a small heel as they get older? I do hope so because I have and I'm not even that old (am I?!?!)

I'll definitely be considering Warehouse more in the future if this dress is anything to go by, in fact, I already have my eye on this floral print midi for Autumn; Hurray for surprise shop successes!

Em x

A Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe - The Pleated H&M Dress

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

It's time for part two of my Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe, and today's item is one which ridiculously very nearly didn't make it into the suitcase...

Pleated Dress - H&M (Available up to a 20)
Sandals - Primark (Similar here)
Earrings - H&M (Similar here)

I first saw this Mustard yellow Pleated Dress in the Birmingham Bull Ring H&M and got a little twinkle in my eye...until doubt kicked in... Thin straps?!? It's been a loooong time since I wore thin straps. Even as a gangly teenager, my shoulders felt too broad for such a dainty style. So I left it. Until the day that I returned an epically misjudged bikini purchase the store in Meadowhall and the dress reared its pretty little mustard face once more, begging me to reconsider. Now I'm not one to let a pretty dress down so I bought it without even trying the thing on.

I AM SO GLAD I AM STUPIDLY IMPULSIVE; This dress is a dream - Calf-length, double layered with an elasticated seam under the bust, cut-out at the back and slits in the sides, it just screams HOLIDAAAAAYYYYY! I am over the moon with it.

This is a size 16 and INCREDIBLY it is true to size (H&M and I do not see eye to eye on our sizing in that their sizing is wrong) Available up to a size 20, I feel that this is the Summer dress many of us have been waiting for. Sadly, I spilled garlic oil right down the middle of it but my Mum assures me she can fix it which is bloody lucky because I don't have a flaming clue when it comes to this shizzle.

A word of advice: This skirt is VERY transparent. I just put a pair of my shapewear shorts on underneath and it was all OK but I would hate for someone to buy this for a wedding on my recommendation and be subsequently excommunicated from the family for showing up the bride... Other than this, the pleated dress is yet another incredibly easy to wear holiday item which, even just paired with a simple pair of sandals and gold earrings, made me feel utterly gorgeous.

There you go, further evidence that it's worth shopping outside of your comfort zone!

Em x

A Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe - The New Look Bardot Dress

Sunday, June 26, 2016

I HAVE BEEN ON MY HOLIDAYS!

Therefore, over the next fortnight I'm going to post my favourite looks from the week. It made such a lovely change to have the time, lighting AND a willing photographer, in fact, I may book another holiday for these reasons alone. Definitely not because I want another week of unadulterated eating, drinking and general slobiness...

Floral Print Button Front Bardot Dress - New Look
Sandals - Primark (Similar here)
Bag - ASOS (Similar here)

This is my first look for you - The Floral Print Button Front Bardot Dress from New Look. You may have seen this on some other babes and it truly is the dress that keeps on giving - I've genuinely not seen it look anything but gorgeous on everyone, at all shapes, heights, skin tones and ages.

The dress is 100% viscose but it feels more like a cheesecloth cotton to me - Light to the touch and in terms of general sweatiness but heavy in how it hangs and moves. And the oversized floral print? SO romantic and utterly perfect for a day in the sun.

With regards to size, this is an 18 and is extremely roomy - I could have done with a 14/16 but there wasn't one in store and I am extremely impatient... I wore the dress out for a meal along with my simple heeled sandals from Primark last year and my tan ASOS clutch - Also an old favourite. I really enjoy how easy this dress is to wear, the length sits perfectly on my calf and the neckline sits in exactly the right place to avoid movement and rolling up as can often be an issue with bardot necked clothing.

Please excuse the quality of the pictures over the next week - Unfortunately I filled my case with giant shoes; leaving no room for my camera meaning that these are very iPhone based!

Em x

Style | Plus Size Prom Princess with Yours Clothing

Thursday, June 09, 2016

I'm not a fan of Disney. There, I've said it.

I appreciate it hugely but beyond The Aristocats and Robin Hood (which I LOVE) I'm not big on the old Princess meets Prince narrative. This said, the dress* I'm wearing in this post DID make me feel very much like a Disney princess and I did enjoy this, so maybe now's the time to re analyse my whole life...

Style | A Saucy LBD - Lindybop Kelsey Wiggle Dress

Tuesday, May 31, 2016

I told you I had an LBD coming up and WHAT an LBD it is!

I first saw this dress on the babeliest pink haired goddess I have ever seen, on a night out in Manchester. She was wearing it with a pair of chunky sandals: The perfect combination of classy & cool and I was smitten. Once I realised I couldn't have the girl, I set my heart on the dress.

The Further North You Go with Yours Clothing

Sunday, May 29, 2016

Becky and I were recently invited to Sunderland for the launch of the fabulous new Yours Store and BOY DID WE HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!

The store is in The Bridges Shopping Centre, opposite Topshop (which I'm told is an ideal location) and the staff are absolute diamonds, each and every one of them. You can see pictures from the day on my Instagram and if you're up that way you should definitely call in.

Until then, let's talk about what I wore.

This is another "not a maxi" maxi dress - A style which I am coming to love this year. It's a soft, thick jersey and is made up of a short underlayer with a draped dip-hem top layer. The ruching and knot detail are what float my boat with this dress - It sits equally as well over leggings like those I'm wearing here as it does with bare legs. I kind of want to say more but it's one of those items that sells itself in my humble opinion. Plus it's only £29 which I think is incredible value for money indeed.

The dress is also available in marl and green so I'm seriously considering ordering it in all of the colours, it's just such a wardrobe staple for Summer. A word to the wise though; SIZE DOWN, this is a 16 and is ever so roomy because of the draping, I'm going to try a 14 in the khaki but keep this one in a 16 for general knocking about and manouvers.

I recently ordered some similar sandals to these from elsewhere and they were epically uncomfortable, so I wasn't sure how these would be but they're FABULOUS; I was on my feet all day and I can honestly say that my feet only hurt as much as any lazy office worker who is generally sat on their arse's would. I didn't realise when I ordered these that the block heel is gold but it is and these really adds to the luxe look of them. Size-wise, these are a 9 and are spot on for me. This said, they are smaller than your average Yours Sizing so maybe size up if you're a larger 9.

The earrings I'm wearing were hugely coveted by me after being influenced by Lovely Danielle Vanier - They're by Suzy Wan Deluxe and are currently the prettiest things I have in my jewellery box by a Country mile.

To counteract my extremely Northern journey, I have three days very much down South next week - Somebody put the kettle on...

Em x

* Denotes items gifted for review - All opinions are all very much my own.

Floral Obsession with Navabi

Saturday, May 21, 2016

Plus Size fashion is rarely this luxurious so when it is you need to scream about it. Therefore, I am here today to scream about LITERALLY the most luxurious item of clothing I now own care of the wonderful team at Navabi.

Embroidered Tunic* - Johnny Was at Navabi

WOULD YOU LOOK AT THIS TUNIC* PLEZ?!? I mean, the embroidery alone makes it so special - It is just IMMACULATE. In an Art Deco style, it features flowers and peacocks galore. It reminds me very much of a 1920s gown of the style that I've only ever seen on House of Elliott or in a museum. Every element has the most flawless detail: embroidered edging, detailed sleeves, buttons, ribbons. Seriously, I audibly sighed when I opened the box.

Embroidered Tunic - Johnny Was at Navabi
High Waisted Jeans - Primark
Sandals - Primark

The tunic is a viscose material. Now I don't confess to know a lot about materials other than "Makes me sweat/Doesn't make me sweat" but this feels very similar to silk in that it is light, soft and drapes beautifully. Also - Doesn't make me sweat.

I'm wearing a 14-16 and it fits like a dream, the very nature of a tunic is that it should be loose and flowing and the relief of wearing something which I can barely even feel on my skin in this thundery hot heat is just fabulous. I love how it looks with jeans and that I can dress it down equally as successfully as I can dress it up. You really, really cannot underestimate the power of a luxe item.

These jeans are a cheapy cheap cheap pair (£12) from Primark which I've cut the hems off because I decided I wanted some raw edged jeans like the ones that all the cool kids are wearing without having to pay a billion pounds - I think they've ended up looking pretty good but am 99% sure they're going to get tangled in the washing machine and costing me £500 so are a bit of a false economy really. The sandals are also Primark from last year but are lasting extremely well to say that I've worn them more than twice...

I hope you're all ready for the imminent heat wave. By ready I mean; Have a freezer full of Ice cream.

Em x

* Denotes gifted items - As always, all views are my own.

Perfect Plus Size Jeans with Yours Clothing

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Just a very quick post today to let you know that I've only gone and found the best casual jeans EVER.

Roll Neck - Vintage Dove House 87
Indigo Rip Detail Skinny Jeans - Yours Clothing
Block Heel Sandals - Yours Clothing

These jeans were chosen on an impulse, mainly because I don't have any trousers that aren't so tight you can see my dinner through them and I wanted a trouser option as the weather picked up. What a great impulse it was!

These are a 16 and they are spot on size wise, I know they state online that they're skinny but I would say they're more of a slim fit straight leg and worn rolled up they give a fabulous fitted boyfriend look. The high waist means that I'm not always tugging at myself (That sounds rude. Don't know why) and as I've said in the past, I always feel more put together with a high-waisted trouser, everything just looks so much better with them.

Weird fact: I get annoyed by how often plus size distressed denim is so obviously false; the thighs are a giant big bleached white patch and the rips don't have that "oops I just did this whilst being an international rock star" look to them. I've realised that Yours Clothing denim doesn't have this weird creepy look to it and have been pleasantly surprised on many an occasion - These jeans are no exception.

I've mentioned these sandals before but they've pretty much not been off my feet so TA DAAAA.

The top was yet another vintage find c/o Dove House No 87 in Hull - Whoever it is that keeps taking in Size 16 and 18 items in to the shop is basically me but from the 60s because this fits like a glove and brings me much pleasure. I bought it thinking it would go in the drawer until Autumn but there Summer was and there it went and I'm back in the old velour rollnecks...

I've got an LBD and a little blue two piece coming up on here so the sun wants to get its act together or we're going to have a pneaumonia incident on our hands...

Em x

A Winning Roll Neck with Yours Clothing

Sunday, May 08, 2016

The sun has arrived!!!! IT IS HERE. I celebrated by nearly breaking my neck cleaning out the shed which is beyond structurally unsound and trying to revive a very unloved lawn with some pound shop grass feed purely so that it would look nicer under my new sun lounger which I don't intend to move from for the next month. So that's what I've been doing, hope your life has been moderately more exciting.

Cowl Neck Maxi Dress* - Yours Clothing
Suedette Biker Jacket* - Yours Clothing
Tan Black Heel Sandals* - Yours Clothing
Earrings - VERY old (Similar HERE)

I have to tell you about this jacket - This is so outside of my usual style but just fabulous. I chose it because I needed a light coloured jacket for when I don't want to be too goth of an evening. Also I wanted to look like Dolly Parton BECAUSE WHO DOESN'T?!? I'm not going to lie, the tassels are moderately flamboyant for me but I love the look on my husband's face whenever I wear it - Part horror and part extreme jealousy. A must for all relationships.

This dress is going to be the saviour of my Summer. The ribbed material hangs beautifully - I've worn it today with my flipflops and sunglasses and it's incredible in the heat; Really light and genuinely easy to wear. This is a 16 and it is extremely roomy which works well for me with regards to my hips that do not lie and butt that will not quit. I know the website says maxi but maxi rarely IS maxi for me - This said, I love the length on me and the side splits make it that extra bit slinky, perfect for day into evening.

You may recall seeing some very similar shoes on my feet last year but these ones are in fact brand new, size 9 and at £23.20 an absolute steal. Friends, these sandals are SO comfortable, I just can't get over how active I can be in them whilst still looking all 70s and chic. I know I say this often but Yours really are so on the money right now - I'm going to get so much wear out of this outfit it's RIDICULOUS, plus I have another Yours look coming up very soon, involving GOLD SHOES (I shit you not) so stay tuned

Em x

* Denotes item gifted for review - Opinions are always my own.

Five Minutes on Lost Time

Sunday, April 17, 2016

I am who I am due to both the good things and bad things that have happened in my life. I don’t say this flippantly and nor could I ever assume that everyone should look at their lives this way; Many people have experienced traumas which should never ever have been part of their story - My bad experiences, though unpleasant, are not on a par with those of many women (I’m not trying to minimise anything here, rather, acknowledge my privilege).

Plus Size Prints with Dorothy Perkins

Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Hi, this look is basically me through and through and I love it so please do enjoy this quick post which I have created in its honour.

Floral Dress - Dorothy Perkins
Tights - Evans
Ankle Boots - New Look (Similar Here)

I picked this dress up at Dorothy Perkins to wear for my birthday but was in such a stroppy mood that I got not a single picture (I don't do birthdays well to be quite honest and my face is basically like Ludo's from Labyrinth when he is upside down) So I decided to re-wear it on a much less grumpy occasion.

The things I love about this dress in no particular order:

> The retro floral print

> The length (Mini but no knickers)

> The frills

> The longer sleeves

> The fact that it makes my boobs look ace.

This is an 18 and I'll be honest, there's not much room across the back and in the arms if you're a lady of the broad persuasion, as I am. Saying this, the fit everywhere else is utterly spot on and the cut means that there is minimal body hugging which is occasionally nice in a world of bodycon.

The dress is in the sale at £24.50 right now (Albeit only in a 6,10 and 14 BOOOOO!) so if it tickles your pickle get yourself down there and do a buy at it!

Em x

A Plus Size Night Out - The Sheer Shirt

Sunday, March 20, 2016

I've always struggled with a casual night out look - I'm an all or nothing kinda gal (and by "nothing" I mean pyjamas). Saying this, I somehow accidentally aced it this week with the following look which I have entitled; "I have nothing to wear why do I have nothing to wear oh god the taxi is here quick put something on".

Sheer blouse - Yours Clothing (Similar here)
Leigh Jeans - Topshop
Leopard Print Ankle Boots - Topshop (Similar here)

How mega are these Leopard print boots? My Wonderful little Sister (Her of shiny hair and Sandra Bullock beauty) bought me these for my Birthday at the beginning of the month. They're incredibly comfortable due to a concealed platform and a size 9 HURRAY.

I'm still plucking up the courage to wear them further afield because they are HIGH. Like "I have to slouch to get through door frames" high. I don't give a crap what other people think but I do care about not starfishing and breaking my face...

The sheer shirt was a sale purchase from Yours Clothing - I modeled it on the NYE shoot and fell in love (despite the bizarre sizing - This is a size 20 in order to get my arms in). It's one of those hugely versatile items that you can wear as successfully to work as you can on a night out simply by adding a cami. Or not. Entirely up to you. This is no longer available in store but they do have a maxi length number which would look AMAZING over skinny jeans or a leather legging.

I've become a big fan of these Leigh jeans - They're not as high waisted as I'm used to and that means a great deal of hoiking throughout the day. However, they're the perfect blue jean colour and look worn without having stupid pretend white bits that make it look like you've been rubbing yourself rapidly A la Reeves and Mortimer. Topshop have always been ridiculously hit and miss size wise for me and I, like many others, wish that they'd consider extending their sizing. Not begging though, until then I'm more than happy to give my cold hard cash to the brands who do.

I love it when an accidental outfit comes together - I should do this more often...

Em x

The Plus Size Pinafore with Yours Clothing

Sunday, February 21, 2016

I've got that Sunday feeling and it ain't good, it's been a lovely weekend but they're never quite long enough are they?

Luckily I get to start the week with a new and rather wonderful acquisition in the form of this perfect Yours Clothing Pinafore Dress*.

Black Ponte Skater Pinafore* - Yours Clothing
Shirt - Vintage
Ankle Boots - New Look (Similar here)
Suede Look Fringed Handbag* - Yours Clothing

I was recommended the dress by the lovely Jacqs at Yours and all I can say is: Yours have utterly nailed it. I've mentioned in the past that I generally avoid the skater shape but for some reason, this really works for me. The length is spot on and there are pockets. Ten out of ten. This dress is just so easy to wear - Whether it be with a Tee, vintage shirt or roll neck; It's effortless.

I wore the pinafore with one of my vintage shirts. This one was from the same place as the blue dress I bought last week. It's really unique in that it's longline with split sides - The only issue I have with it is that it's roughly two sizes too small for me, meaning I can only wear it under things. Otherwise you can see my tummy button.

Suede Look Fringed Handbag* - Yours Clothing

I'm a fan of fringed bags but have never been able to use one without feeling extremely conspicuous. Like I'm going to get it caught in a lift door or dip it in my dinner. This Suede look fringed number from Yours Clothing is ideal, practical (yeah I said that) yet still very "On trend" as people in the know say.

After saying how few clothes I've bought of late, I substantially extended my vintage wardrobe this weekend thanks to a kilo sale, so there will be some extremely gaudy prints and hues gracing the pages of this blog very soon...

Em x

* Denotes iterms gifted for review. As always, opinions are my own.

New Plus Size Brand - Want That Trend

A Warm Weather Jumpsuit with Simply Be

Plus Size Leopard - The New Look Midi Dress.

A Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe - The Warehouse Stripe Midi Dress

A Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe - The Pleated H&M Dress

A Plus Size Holiday Wardrobe - The New Look Bardot Dress

Style | Plus Size Prom Princess with Yours Clothing

Style | A Saucy LBD - Lindybop Kelsey Wiggle Dress

The Further North You Go with Yours Clothing

Floral Obsession with Navabi

Perfect Plus Size Jeans with Yours Clothing

A Winning Roll Neck with Yours Clothing

Five Minutes on Lost Time

Plus Size Prints with Dorothy Perkins

A Plus Size Night Out - The Sheer Shirt

The Plus Size Pinafore with Yours Clothing

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