Summer Maxi Dress Madness

The Summer has finally arrived and with it a noticeable splash of colour on the streets as women all over the Country shake out their Summer dresses & strappy sandals in celebration!

I love this time of year, Summer is in the air and everyone is high spirited  - it's amazing what a bit of sun can do for the general mood. With so much to celebrate this Summer it's definitely time to treat yourself to a new Summer wardrobe essential - and we recommend one of our fabulous new maxi dresses to make sure you are ready for all of the parties and celebrations.

If you want to add a splash of colour to your wardrobe then the Adeola Or Kiyomi are perfect. Both are full length maxi dresses which can be dressed up or down for any occasion and will guarantee you stand out in a crowd at special events. Both available in plus sizes 16 to 36 to rock those curves.

If pattern inst your thing then the new Charlize mazi dress may be more your thing. Available in watermelon or black and available in plus sizes 16 to 32.

Whatever killer outfit you choose for your Summer celebrations, enjoy!

Curvety Stocks New Designer Collection

We are very excited to announce a new designer collection now available at Curvety. Que is a Danish brand offering on trend quality womens fashion in plus sizes 16 to 34. This new collection is available online in the UK exclusively at Curvety.com.

We have a number of new styles in now, such as the stunning Gracie Dress, pictured, which features delicate bead embroidered flower detailing on a chiffon shift dress which falls perfectly on the curvier figure. We will be adding more new styles from the designer very shortly, so watch this space!

What do you think?

Luscious Lace for Spring Summer

OK, so a Spring Summer lace trend is hardly breaking news but I for one am glad lace is back for SS11, and in a big way!

Lace has continued in popularity from Autumn Winter and, like many trends that span multiple seasons, it has evolved.

This season the lace trend has taken on a more classic look, with quality antique-style lace being the key. Think romantic, feminine & chic without being too girly or tacky. Where lace was  once seen as a trim or an embellishment it is now the star of the show!

Keep an eye out for beautiful lace summer dresses, like the zandra dress in cream pictured available at curvety.com in sizes 18 to 36, plus jackets and sensual see-through gowns.

Coloured lace has lifted the tone for the warmer months, with some designers even opting for acid neons colours, but our top tip for Spring Summer 2011 are antique whites and nude lace dresses, like the boudoir lace dress.

So don't be shy and release your feminine side in style this Summer.

Heart Stopping Valentine Day Fashion

I can't quite believe it's less than 3 weeks to that most special of nights, when romance blooms & love is in the air - Valentines!

Whether on a first date, a night out with that special person in your life, or a girly night on the tiles, you are sure to want to look your best. So here are some head turning outfit ideas which are guaranteed to get that special someones pulse racing.


Lady in Red
Sultry, sensual & synonymous with Valentines day, no other colour speaks of love and passion in quite the same way. Red is the color of love, and on Valentine’s Day nothing can beat the magic and charm of a red dress.

Top red dress picks in sizes 16 to 36 -

Luscious in Lace

The perfect look to ooze sophistication on this most special of nights out. Lace speaks of class & elegance & is guaranteed to sweep that special someone off their feet.

Top lace dress picks in sizes 16 to 36 -  

Passionate in Purple

The colour of intrigue, purple is the perfect hue to create an air of mystery & excitement on a first or early date. Universally flattering to the majority of skin tones, you are sure to wow in passionate purple. 

Top purple dress pick in sizes 16 to 36 - 



Whatever you do this Valentines day make it a fabulous fun filled evening. 

Is Fashion Finally Embracing Curves?

Could 2010 be the year that fashion finally accepts curves?

Well early signs indicate a swing in the right direction with US V magazine dedicating an entire issue to the wonders of the curvy figure.

"The Size Issue" which is out on the 14th January, comprises of a high fashion photo shoot using no less than 5 stunning plus size models. Norwegian fashion photographer, Solve Sundsbo, has shot these luscious curvy models in figure hugging Agent Provocateur bodysuits, Cut out Gucci swimsuits, Dolce & Gabbana lingerie, and even a sexy nude shot!


Sundsbo said: "I loved the opportunity to show that you can be beautiful and sexy outside the narrow interpretations that normally define us."

Models used in the shoot include Tara Lynn, Kasia P, Candice Huffine, Marquite Pring & Michelle Olson - some well known faces in the plus size modelling world & used by brands such as Kiyonna, which is available in the UK at Curvety.

It seems the fashion world is slowly making progress and accepting different body shapes. It will be a long time before size zero is not the norm on our catwalks but a step in the right direction none the less. Lets see is any UK magazines follow suit and brave the joy of curves!



V magazine on sale 14th january - www.vmagazine.com

Must Have Style for Curvy Women

As the evenings draw in and the temperature starts to drop there is always one thing that cheers me up - shopping!

It's that time of year when the fab new Autmn/ Winter styles are hitting the shops and a bit of retail therapy is sure to brighten the most gloomy of days.

As always, Curvety have some luscious examples of this seasons hottest styles, all in plus sizes to ensure curvy women everywhere stay one step ahead of the game on the fashion front.

Basic season essentials -

Jeggings

The jean style legging is a wardrobe essential this A/W. Designed to replicate skinny jeans without the bulk, jeggings were definitely designed with the curvier lady in mind. Perfect for dressing up or down with this seasons hot layered look, this is one piece you can't be without.

Teal & Purple

The two hot colours to inject into your winter wardrobe will be sure to add a bit of glamour to your day. The penny purple knit dress is the perfect example of how to find wearable style which will make you look like you have just stepped off the catwalk.

Chunky knits

As the UK is not famed for its winter weather it's fortunate that one of the key looks this season is knitwear, however 09/10 style sees the look taken to the next level. perfect for layering (and keeping warm!!), we love the pippy jade knit cardi.

More styles not to be missed this season....

Animal print - Back with avengance and more imagiation than ever. Check out the vray animal print top.

Houndstooth - Inject some glamour into your winter wardrobe. We love this houndstooth jacket.

Checks - For casual chic, check print is an essential look this season. Check out the caley check top.

A few flexible key pieces will ensure an Autumn/ Winter wardrobe to be proud of without spending a fortune so pick wisely and you will look fab all season.

HUGE SUMMER SALE CONTINUES

It's the perfect time to grab a bargain with many summer sales in full swing. Curvety's huge summer sale means you can update your wardrobe at a fraction of the cost without the stress and hassle of fighting for bargains on the high street!

Just visit their website at Curvety.com, where you will find steals like these....

Top was £28, now £21
Capri jeans were £36, now £18

Top was £28, now £21
Shorts were £36, now £18

Many more bargains to be had so don't miss out!

Wanna be a TV Star?

BBC Three have been in touch with Curvety as they are looking for participants in a new show. This could be your chance to get on the small screen and enjoy some travelling to boot!


"BBC Three is looking for plus size people between the ages of 18-28 to travel around the world for a new series that looks at eating culture, lifestyle and health issues in different countries.

Have you struggled to lose weight and adopt a healthier lifestyle?

Or do you believe that big is beautiful and there’s too much pressure to conform?

Perhaps you’ve been discriminated against because of your size?

If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, or just want to find out more for yourself or a friend, please call Lucy in confidence on 020 800 83863 or email lucy.malins@bbc.co.uk"


Good luck to anyone who decides to give it a go!

Do you want to be a Plus Size Model?

Have you ever considered turning your talents to plus size modelling?

Do you need some professional shots for your portfolio?

Curvety are looking for a budding plus size model to take part in our first ever photo shoot.

It will be great experience for someone who is looking to break into plus size modelling and will give you some lovely pictures for your portfolio. You will need to be able to travel to Camberley, Surrey for the shoot and we will pay your travel expenses. We will also supply images on a disc for you to use to promote yourself.

We are looking for someone who is a size 16/18 and is well proportioned. You will need to be 5ft 7" or taller, however for the right look this is flexible so feel free to send over your shots if you don't quite match this criteria!

If you are interested and want to be considered please email a head shot and a full length shot by the 3rd July to - info@chantalstorrsbarbor.com

Curvety on Goks Fashion Fix

Anyone who has been following the new series of Goks Fashion Fix on Channel 4, will know that they are road testing various outfits on a range of plus size women, the Rotheram Roadtesters.

This week jeans were put to the test and had to face the challenge of riding a rodeo bull! The size 28 jeans worn by Lucy were the reverie jeans from Curvety.com. Lucy scored the jeans a solid 7 for their comfort and stretch - a good result for larger women's denim.

Check out Curvety on Goks fashion fix on 4OD - http://www.channel4.com/programmes/goks-fashion-fix/catch-up#2917140

The programme will also be repeated on E4 on Friday at 20.55.

Are you size 16 and Body Confident?

I have received a plea from the press department of Women & Home magazine, one of the leading womens titles in the UK published by IPC Media. Would you like to be featured?

Here is their request...

"I’m looking for women in their late 30s to take part in a feature on body confidence. Perhaps you’ve had issues with your self confidence in the past or maybe yo-yo dieted to try and slim down, but now have come to accept you size and shape and love it. If this sounds like you, or someone you know, and you’d be interested in taking part in this inspirational piece for our readers, please get in touch by 18th May, with full details and attach a colour photo to your response."

If you would like to be involved...

Contact: Emma Pritchard
emma_pritchard@ipcmedia.com
020 3148 7839

Valentine Favourites for the Curvy Figure

What are your valentine favourites? Here are the top pick from Curvety - by Emily Robertson.


Polka Princess

This beautiful Polka Dot Dress is perfect for that valentine’s lunch. The deep v neckline compliments your bust line as well as creating a amore sexy look. The show stopping red combined with white spots and accessories creates a cute and fun look for any time, any day.


Lady in red


For £80.00 you can get yourself this stunning buy! This amazing dress flatters any figure with the front ruffles along the stomach you create a pattern that distracts the eye and the length shows off your sexy legs. Teamed with a pair of heels this look works on every level, dress it down with a large bag and trench coat, or glam it up for a more night look by adding some large heels and classic jewellery.






Sophisticated woman

The colour purple is used for mystery and sexiness and this dress takes full advantage of it. The capped sleeves are great for flattering your arms and the rounded neck gives a gentler image to the dress. Again the length is perfect for showing off your legs and the cinched in waist gives you your womanly figure. For £100.00 you cant afford to miss out.


Retro chic

This dress is the height of classic, glam, fashion. The lace sleeves give a sexed up effect on the dress and the belted waist is amazing for giving you curves and showing off your best assets. The neckline screams retro glam and the detailing to the fabric will make you feel fabulous. Perfect for an evening meal out.

Fashions First Lady

America's new first lady has also acquired another new title courtesy of the Washington Post: the leader of the fashionable world.

So why so much interest in Mrs Obama's wardrobe?

Michelle is young, tall and attractive which stands her apart from previous first ladies, but there is more to it than that. She represents hope & change as much as the new president himself. For the ceremony she dressed herself and her daughters in glorious & vibrant colour. Her daring green gold ensemble was striking, a complete contrast to the expected.

But more telling than the outfits themselves is the names behind them. Michelle's coat and dress for the ceremony were by Isabel Toledo, a 47-year-old Cuban-American designer who is well known to fashion insiders but has almost no profile among the public. Her evening gown, a one-shoulder ivory gown, was by Jason Wu, a 26-year-old Taipei-born, American-based designer. Another who is known only to those who keep a close eye on 'the ones to watch' in fashion magazines.

Choosing to shun the big name designers who will have been fighting to dress the most important woman in America is significant in showing her credentials as a deserved leader in fashion.

Top 3 Curvy Celebs of 2008

The year is drawing to a close and what a year it's been!

2008 has seen the size acceptance movement fall into full swing and real women everywhere are learning to accept and be proud of their curves. They are demanding a voice in both the public domain and in the retail sector & the choice of plus size clothes has never been so great.

The rise of size acceptance has seen an increase of curvy women in the world of celebrity, those rare role models who refuse to bow to the pressure of life in the limelight as a curvy women.

As 2008 wraps up I wanted to celebrate my top 3 curvy role models of the year...

Chloe Marshall has to be my number 1 curvy celebrity in 2008. Her stirling work in raising awareness of the sexiness of curves earlier in the year when coming second in the Miss England final was monumental. Chloe is a beautiful young woman and the UK really got behind her.

In second place has to be Beth Ditto, who has won the admiration of women across the world for her attitude and daring dress sense. Beth knows how to steal the show, and proves to the world that you dont need to be a size 0 to do it. BTW - love the new orange hair Beth!

In third place it has to be Adele, just because I love her. She is my favourite by far of the new singing talents of 2008. when I first heard her voice it gave me goose bumps, so I was doubly pleased when I found out she was proud to be a curvy woman.

There have been many sad stories of celebritites who have suffered at the hands of the size stigma in the UK - such as Fern Britton and Natalie Cassidy.

Here's to a 2009 which celebrates the beauty of the female form in all its wonderful variations, and where celebrities and normal women alike can feel confident of who they are without being judged.

20% Off Entire Range at Curvety

If you still need to find the perfect party outfit then now is the time to do it. Curvety have announced a 20% off sale across the entire plus size clothing range on their website.

The discounted lines include fab evening and day dresses, separates, accessories and outerwear - all in sizes 16 to 36.

Whether you need a fab christmas outfit for yourself, or the perfect pressie for a friend or loved one then make the most of the discounts - they will only be in place for one week and many items will not be available again once they have sold out.

Plus Size Party Fever

Have you planned your Christmas party outfit yet?

Gone are the days when choosing your festive party dress meant a disheartening trip to the high street for a choice of frumpy tent like outfits more suited to a night in front of the telly.

Now the choice in plus size evening wear can make you the envy of all fashionistas in attendance.

For example, the new satin jewels dress from Curvety is sure to wow at your festive events. Created with the curvy figure in mind, in sizes 16 to 36, this satin dress has a small element of stretch to guarantee a perfect fit, plus it's fully lined to give a flattering silhouette. It is available in black or dusky pink to suit your mood and finished with three oversize jewels to the ruched bust to dazzle perfectly.

Bigger Women Have Better Sex Lives

A recent study has shown that plus size women have better sex lives than their slimmer counterparts and the Mirror are keen to shout it from the roof tops by way of an article on sexy BBW's who rule in the bedroom.

A freelance journalist has been commissioned to write a feature for the women's section of the Mirror and has asked me to help find some sexy case studies. A new study has revealed that bigger women get more sex than their slimmer sisters which rubbishes previous studies which concluded that larger girls had a low libido, while skinny ones were more likely to be sexually active.

Gail is writing a feature on larger women who say that although they get may get sneering looks from other women about their size, they literally have to fight men off. She is looking for women who are a size 18 or above and perfectly happy with their bodies and their sex lives.

Case studies will attend a professional photo shoot in London where they'll have their hair and make up done by professionals. All stories will be read back before submission. For more information, please email Gail Titchener at gailtitchener@googlemail.com or call 07795 167902.

Natalie's YO YO Dieting

Written by Emily Robinson.

Slated in the papers for her fast weight regain, is Natalie really to blame?

Recently slated across magazines and countless internet sites, Natalie Cassidy has been seen back up to her original weight. Is she really to blame or is this ridiculous obsession to be stick thin the reason for her plummet and quick regain. Realistically no-one could have believed someone who is clearly naturally curvy to stay a size 8. She is being quoted as being depressed and in tears about her weight gain and im sure all of the bad press coverage isn’t helping her. It’s a waste of time to spend every second calorie counting and watching what you eat she should enjoy her life and enjoy her success but instead she is being made to feel fat and ugly. Headline have said how she has ballooned back to her weight and, ‘she’s the fat girl off TV’, but really she is just being compared to her previous.

Yo Yo dieting its self is very harmful for your body, your body is going from one extreme of eating large amounts to eating nothing back to eating more again so the strain on your body is extremely unhealthy. Natalie sadly will have regained everything in fat as her weight decreased so rapidly leaving a small muscular frame and her weight has been regained so quickly it will be stored as fat.

I think the pressure of the good press she had because of the weight loss inspired her but once she realised it was near impossible to keep the weight off she relaxed and settled down, it seems she is naturally a curvy girl so she should learn to love her curves like we all do!

The Colour Purple

If you wear one colour this season it has to be purple. Vibrant, sexy & powerful, The Autumn/Winter violet trend is anything but shrinking.

A huge hit on the runways, being utilised in the collections of many designers including Versace and Alberta Ferretti (pictured). It has also been adopted by the high street in both fashion and homeware and is sure to brighten up the colder months.

According to the rules of feng shui it also symbolises prosperity - which certainly can't hurt at the moment! Although bold, purple is very versatile. Mix it with greys & blacks for less of a statement look - or go all out purple to stand out from the crowd.

If, like me, you have fallen in love with the Alberta Ferretti dress pictured, there is a similar style plus size evening dress in purple chiffon (pictured) available at Curvety.com.

America's First Lady has Style

Being across the pond in the UK has done little to remove me from the buzz surrounding the US election, and the historic win of the first black president.

Stealing as many column inches as her husband, if only in the fashion world, is America's new first lady - Michelle Obama.

The general consensus is that the woman has style. Mrs Obama has gorgeous curves which she acccentuates perfectly, with no help from a personal stylist, so we are told.

Mrs Obama has been applauded for her fashion choices during the campaign, with women across the world seeking out copies of her smart, colourful dresses and well-cut skirt suits. She recently told Jay Leno that she shopped for most of her clothes online.

On election night I have to say that I think Mrs Obama suffered a rare lapse of taste. Wearing a red and black scoop-neck dress by Narciso Rodriguez for the historic moment, was a decision that has sparked instant debate among the fashion-focused.

Nobody gets it right every time so i'm sure it wont be long before Mrs Obama is back on her fashion pedestal and leading the world in power dressing with style for the modern woman.