Next say Hide your Love Handles

Next are a big name in high street fashion, and although willing to sell their clothes to some smaller plus sizes (albeit grudgingly), it seems they don't want any lumps & bumps on show in their stores.

The leaflet pictured has been distributed to staff in some Next shops and advises their female staff of many ways to assure they look as slim as possible when working their tills.

Firstly, they would like their women staff to try 'magic pants to hide lumps & bumps'. They also give a number of tips on how to cover large tummies & bottoms, plus advise to wear pinstripes to slim and avoid tight fitting AND baggy clothes which will make you look bigger.

Susan Ring, Chief Executive of Eating Disorder charity Beat told the Daily Mail: "What Next is saying here is that it wants the people who work in its stores to look as slim as possible so that the customers see the clothes on the staff and want to buy them. Stylists should be trying to show people the best ways to show off their figure and not imply that everyone has to conform to this skinny image."

So Next want their staff to look good when representing them, I can understand that, but this leaflet clearly implies that Next believe that to look good and 'presentable' you have to be slim. Luckily this attitude is slowly changing within the industry and plus sizes have more choice than ever. If you find shopping on the high street intimidating there are many online stores offering fabulous choices for larger women. Try Curvety.com, who stock great eveningwear & daywear in sizes up to a 36.

Hooray for Online Shopping

As a long time convert to the joys of online shopping, I was not surprised to find out that more and more of you are starting to agree.

Fashion is now second only to books when it comes to shopping online, according to the latest Nielsen Global Online Survey published in December. It is the fastest growing area of any e-commerce category, with about 36 percent of Internet users saying they had bought clothing, accessories or shoes online in the three months before the survey. This is a huge increase from the 20 percent who reported doing so only two years before.

Britain, Germany and the United States had an especially high number of online fashion shoppers, with slightly more than 40 percent of the users reporting online purchases.

Ebay is still the most visited website, in general and for fashion shopping. But the growth of the market has meant there is a budding array of interesting boutique style websites which offer each niche as rich a shopping experience as the standard size 10 teen receives on the high street. This is the case for plus sizes, with great stores such as Curvety.com giving more choice in a market where shoppers would traditionally struggle.

Free Style Advice

Have you ever wondered if the look you have perfected over the years is the right one for you? Or maybe you know that you could dress better to suit your shape but you're not quite sure where to start.

The thing with being a plus size is that there is such a huge variety of different body shapes that it makes dressing to suit you so much harder. But I think I have discovered the answer.

iStylista.com is an exciting new and revolutionary virtual personal stylist website that profiles your specific body information and provides you with your very own style guide. In the past, the personal stylist at iStylista.com have worked with my favourite plus size clothing store - Curvety.com who have a fab range in sizes up to a 36. Now with a little help from iStylista.com you can shop there safe in the knowledge that what you ordered is going to look amazing.

Purple for Plus Sizes

Each season has its colour and this Autumn/Winter it is purple that reigns supreme. From lavender to violet, lilac to plum. It doesn't matter if it is vibrant or subtle as long as it suits.

Purple is a brave and bold colour which I love but has the potential to be a fashion nightmare for some. Make sure you select a shade that matches your skin tone. And use as an accent rather than all over colour if you aren't comfortable being so bold.

This fab wrap dress from Curvety.com is perfect for fuller figured ladies who are a size 22 to 36. Not only is it the best colour for the season but the tie waist detail is also very on trend and the material is to die for.

Are Low Rise Jeans for Curvy Women?

I came across an interesting article today about plus size women wearing low rise jeans. The author had tested a pair for a day and decided categorically that they AREN'T for plus size women. It occured to me that this generalisation is what can confuse some fabulous ladies with voluptuous curves as fortunately we are all unique.

The author says - 'The first 20 minutes were okay but when I decided to sit down all hell broke loose. I felt my back all out and my panties were showing. I began to feel sooo uncomfortable. Well after pulling up my jeans all day and I mean all day. I decided that low-rise jeans aren’t for curvy chicks. I don’t even know why they were made for plus size women. It’s the most uncomfortable thing in the world'.

Now I am going to presume that this plus size diva is a pear shape, which means fab hips and curves. Getting jeans to sit just right on this type of curve will always be a bit of a mission, and yes, you would be better finding a pair to sit a bit higher up. However, I am more of a traditional apple shape (and short to boot). This means my hips and waist are pretty much the same size - low rise jeans fit me like a dream and I wouldn't be seen in any other type as due to my height, if I wear mid waist or higher I look like i've purposefully hiked my jeans up to my ears in a Simon Cowell impression.

My advise is to try different styles of jeans until you find a cut that makes you feel 100% comfortable. Once you know what that style is you will be able to purchase jeans easily. One great place to buy plus size jeans in the UK in sizes up to a size 36 is Curvety.com

DEFINITION low rise - worn by both men and women, are jeans intended to sit low on, or below, the hips. They are also called low-cut jeans, hipsters, hip-huggers and low-riders. Usually they sit at least three inches lower than the belly button. Low-rise jeans have existed since the 1960s, but regained popularity in the 1990s and 2000s. Britney Spears is known for regaining the popularity.

Let me know what style of jeans suits you best and any funny stories of jeans that HAVEN'T been quite right!

AUTUMN O7 THE EVENT DRESS

According to Vogue one of this season's hottest trends is the good old evening dress. There's a sultry glamour to these sumptuous floor-length gowns which will make this year's party season all the more fun.

From pistachio silk to lipstick-pink chiffon, colour gives extra dazzle and infuses another top trend - bold colours. Elbow-length gloves add to the drama but short gloves are the bang-up-to-date option. Be sure not to go mad with the jewellery though or you may over do it.

For those who don't like to show too much flesh on the upper arms, a wonderful wrap or shrug will finish the look in style.

There has always been a limited choice for plus size women when it comes to eveningwear but Curvety.com always have a wonderful selection in large sizes as they specialise in evening dresses which are cut well to fit the larger frame.

Plus Size Fashion on the Red Carpet

By now i'm sure you will all have heard of Nikki Blonsky, the talented new star of Hairspray and newest plus size celebrity.

Nikki was spotted in London earlier in the year in one of Igigi's fabulous plus size designs. For the LA premiere of Hairspray she has gone one step further and had an Igigi couture dress made especially for her! Based on the Shimmering dress in Copper which is available in the UK from Curvety.com, she has had the style adapted to suit her shorter frame.

Nikkie says: 'I wanted to wear something beautiful that shows off my curves in a classy and glamorous way'.

I think Nikki looks fab and shows that curvier women can look stunning for that special evening event. Take note and make no excuses next time you have a reason to dress up!

Real Curves Win Again

J-Lo has been voted best butt in Hollywood, yet again proving that stick thin just isn't in!! The sexy Latina topped the poll even though recent photos show that her bottom has succumbed to cellulite, further proof that au natural is the way to go.

Coming in close on JLo’s heels - In second place is the ‘Bootylicious’ Beyonce, reports The Sun. It seems Justin Timberlake has a good eye for the perfect derriere as third and fourth places are taken by current and ex love interest. Third - Jessica Biel and fourth - Cameron Diaz.

The list for the top 10 ‘Best Bottoms In Hollywood’, as per The Sun is:

1. Jennifer Lopez
2. Beyonce
3. Jessica Biel
4. Cameron Diaz
5. Fergie
6. Halle Berry
7. Eva Longoria
8. Kim Kardashian
9. Tyra Banks
10. Mariah Carey

Although none of these gorgeous creatures are plus size, neither are they size zero waifs. It gives me great joy that healthy looking role models make up this list. If you now feel inspired to show off your fab behind try plus size clothing specialist Curvety.com, who always have fab and sexy items in sizes 16 to 36.

Final Reductions in Plus Size Clothing Sale

UK based plus size clothing specialist Curvety.com has further reduced all items in their summer sale. Now really is the time to grab a bargain in sizes 16 to 36. Here are some of my favourite steals...

I love this beautiful chiffon dress which has been reduced from £45 to just £20.This vintage print skirt is really flattering and the quality is great. At £20 it's now half price!

There are too many bargains to mention them all, but with many pieces now priced at £10 or under it is definitely worth checking it out.

The importance of good underwear

In fashion in general there is a distrubing new trend which is fast on the rise - women wearing the wrong underwear.

It is a sure fire way to ruin an outfit and it's not just bras. I am talking about knickers, body shapers, camis, all undies!

Wearing the right size is everything, even more so than getting it right in your regular clothing. To arrive at the right size in underwear you should be measured at least once a year. This isn't as difficult as you'd think - just go to your local department store and ask a sales associate to measure your bust, waist and hips.

Once the size is right you need to find a comfortable fit and great support. You want items that will smooth and flatter your curves, helping your clothing to drape over them in a flattering way. For example, body shapers work best when worn with a dress or skirt. They provide a smoothing quality that streamlines your shape and softens your curves. Choose full body shapers for dresses and half-styles for skirts.

The characteristics of a good bra are a great lift, comfortable fit, straps that stay in place, a back strap that doesn't rise and no spillage - anywhere. The only way to overcome these problems is to be properly measured regularly. Every outfit needs a good bra. If your bra is digging into your skin, If you are spilling out everywhere, If there is lots of room inside the cup, If the straps are falling down, even when adjusted, Or if your breasts are sagging when you are wearing a bra, it's the wrong size.

Knickers should also be chosen depending on the outfit. Wear thongs or low-rise styles with any bottoms that sit below your waist. Full-coverage panties are perfect for dresses but make sure you don't have any visible panty lines whicy are a huge no no. What you don't want is to be spilling out over the top of your underwear, creating a roll you don't really have. Choose slightly loose over too-tight when it comes to the fit.

Wearing the right underwear will make the world of difference to the overall effect of your outfit. So now you're prepared you can choose your new killer outfit from someone like Curvety.com, safe in the knowledge that it will hang well and you will look great!

Plus Size Clothing sale

If there is one thing we can be thankful to the weather for it is the number of early summer sales this year. Plus size clothing specialist Curvety.com has further reduced many items in their summer sale. If you are a size 16 to 36 you are sure to pick up some fab bargains like this beautiful chiffon dress.

New issue of Skorch Magazine for plus sizes

Skorch magazine offers fashion, styling & lifestyle advice, but it is just for those of us who are a size 16+ (in UK sizes).

Check it out as it is an excellent read for the plus size woman that doesn't want to be condescended to read about diet advice. In the mean time here is a round up with some UK alternatives as they are based stateside.

Skorch praise the halter neck dress. They say - 'Halter dresses are so in right now. This cut of dress appeals to the classic Marilyn Monroe in every woman'. Try the aptly named Marilyn Halter Dress available from UK based Curvety.com.

Curvy icon Jennifer Hudson featured as their 'get the look' - She was spotted in a stunning ruched black dress.

Skorch think you can look like a million bucks in this seasons hot trend of gold and black. As well as some beautiful accessories, they have featured this black & gold tunic also available in the UK. I agree, this is a trend with real sex appeal!

Curvy Fern Britton turns 50

As tomorrow is the her 50th birthday I wanted to pay homage to Fern Britton, one of my favourite UK plus size celebrities.

Fern is a wonderful role model for women throughout the UK as she truly comes across as someone comfortable in her own skin. She always looks fabulous because she dresses well & looks content with who she is, weight included.

She is a beautiful woman who has a large male fan base, plus a scrummy celebrity chef husband. Fern is well liked and admired by colleagues, friends and the general UK public, both for personality and presenting ability. Isn't that a more healthy role model than the super slim icons who encourage eating disorders in young women?

Fern has typically been criticised in celebrity magazines and newspaper columns about her weight and body image after photographs of her emerged on holiday in a swimming costume. Fern hit back at the abuse she received saying 'I would rather be big and happy than on a diet and miserable'.

Fern also seems to love an opportunity to dress up and has been seen in some of the sexiest plus size eveningwear I have seen. You can get a similar look at Curvety.com.

Keep it up Fern, you look fab at fifty!

Romantic dresses in plus sizes

With the number of beautiful dresses available this season, here is some advice on picking the right one for you. Romanticism rules at the moment with dresses being festooned with embroidery, jewels, and lace, so find one for sensual summer evenings in a juicy jewel color like this one from Igigi, available in the UK at Curvety.com. Know Your Shape: Flatter a larger bust with a wider scoop neckline for summer, or a tummy with a flattering empire waist. Try to find a dress with a sash to cinch the waist slightly and add a trendy touch.

Black is Back

Through every season and trend, there is always the appearance of black as the colour of the moment. It has been a wardrobe staple for many years and has a way of making you feel sexy and womanly, whilst being very flattering.

Well this season is no different and this summer has seen a new rise of our favourite colour mainly due to the bad weather. However, it IS still summer so try to use the colour in some fab summer materials like this lovely black linen skirt.

Make the most of prom season with this fab black ruched dress. This dress is in chiffon which is lovely and lightweight for this time of year but has the added benefit of being lined. Take this seasons top trend - the tunic top, and make it black. This is the perfect top as, whatever the weather you will be able to pair it with something to suit your mood.

Gossip about plus sizes in Topshop

You may remember that I recently wrote about Beth Ditto refusing a gig at Topshop's flagship store as they didn't cater for her size. It seems she struck a nerve as, although a link-up has yet to be confirmed, the singer declared she is currently talking to the clothes shop about a range.

'I'm in talks to do something with them at the moment,' she told London's The Sun. 'I love their stuff.'

New Look are currently refusing to comment so time will tell if anything will come of this. However, it's refreshing that the high street is finally taking the possiblity of plus size seriously and following the already rapidly growing online market with brands such as Curvety.com. Even if a massive icon is needed to push them in the right direction.

Building the perfect plus size wardrobe

When shopping most women buy single items that catch their eye rather than an antire outfit, which can be expensive to buy all at once. But have you ever got home to find that the special item you bought doesn't quite match anything in your wardrobe?

This is why building a selection of good basics is essential. One special item will be enough to make it look like you've spent a fortune on each and every shopping trip.

Firstly, stock up on good quality underwear in black and white. Make sure a couple have pretty straps which you wouldnt mind showing off with certain outfits.

Invest in a selection of different coloured basic cami tops which can be worn under cardigans and jackets, they will also be useful for layering.

Select a couple of pairs of jeans in varying shades in a shape that suits you but isn't high trend. jeans can be dressed up or down easily which makes them very versatile.

It is essential to have a pair of black trousers, and a skirt. Both can be used for every occasion from interview to party.

I love shoes and buy many pairs each season but find it is always best to have 3 basic pairs throughout the year. One pair of flats, a pair of heels and some boots.

Once you have these basics you will be able to buy that perfect high fashion top that you fall in love with feeling safe in the knowledge that you will be able to wear it again and again and always look like you've splashed out on a whole new outfit.

Nikki Blonsky looks like a star at Hairspray Premiere

Over the weekend it was the London premiere for the new movie release of our old favourite - Hairspray.

Originally a John Waters film made in 1988 before becoming a leading musical. The 2007 re make stars John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Queen Latifah, and new face - Nikki Blonsky.

Nikki Blonsky is new to the big screen and chose the fabulous Igigi Maya Chiffon Dress for her first premiere. Igigi are a US based plus size designer, but this dress can be found in the UK at Curvety.com.

Nikki shows promise of following in the footsteps of other great plus size role models such as Jennifer Hudson.

Fashion in the rain

This year summer is looking to be a complete wash out. Across the country you can hear the same conversation - When is the rain going to stop!

The constant rain seems to be a natural depressant - instead of planning sunny picnics in the park and days at the coast, most of us find ourselves saying - what do we do now? It also causes its fair share of problems when choosing an outfit for the day. The occasional appearance of the sun makes it too hot for our winter warmers, but the constant threat of a downpour pretty much wipes out any possibility of sandals!

We are fortunate that this seasons style can be adapted to keep us warm but with the summer look we all crave at this time of year. Try adding some bold on trend summer colours like this green chiffon dress. To keep you warmer and dryer pair with ballet shoes & leggings rather than tights which are too warm even with the rain!

Maybe the sunny colours of this long length halter tunic/ short dress will help with the summer vibe. Just pair it with your fave jeans to keep warm.

There are a number of pretty but lightweight jackets about plus some very funky brollies to match any outfit. Whatever your wearing be sure to keep your spirits up.

Shopping may be more fun in the sun but now we have the internet we can still indulge in retail therapy without getting wet!

Satin Dreams Gown back by popular demand

The Satin Dreams Gown is such a wonderful evening dress for the fuller figure that it has been featured on numerous fashion advice websites and leading magazines. It has also featured on TV, worn by popular plus size icons such as Lakisha Jones.

Igigi, the designer responsible for this dress are based in the US, however this dress is now back in stock from UK plus size retailer Curvety.com in UK sizes 22 to 32. They have also confirmed that more will be available soon in their full size range - 18 to 36. If you have been waiting for this dress to be re-cut then make sure you don't miss out as this style is never in stock for long!