Autumn Trend - Tunics & Trousers

I hate to say it, but the Autumn/Winter styles are hitting the shops - so before summer has even really begun it's time to start looking at your winter warmers, more importantly, what will look fab on the curvier figure.

Definitely this season's most wearable trend - pairing a tunic with trousers is guaranteed to lengthen your silhouette and create a long and lean look.

Cinching at the waist can give definition to the tunic's soft line. Keep the shape and palette simple so you can add drama with luxurious materials, from lavish fur and soft leather to bold mixed plaid. For the most flattering look make sure the tunic doesn't creep below mid-thigh.

As for the trousers - cropped or floor-skimming, flared or skinny, just make sure you pick trousers to suit your shape to really make this look your own.Pick of the crop in plus sizes is this pleated black tunic with cute ruffle finish sleeves.

Flowers for Spring

With Spring definitely in the air it's time to take a closer look at some of the trends of the season, particularly the ones that translate well into plus sizes.

One of my favourite continued trends is the use of pattern, specifically florals, although most patterns go at the moment. From simple sketched sprigs to delicate tea roses, girlish daises, vibrant azaleas and lush, exotic hibiscus - any floral pattern is a definite winner - Although for plus sizes it would be best to avoid all over large prints which can highlight larger areas.

Angular cuts and exaggerated silhouettes lend a modern edge to retro florals. I favour the strong bold prints out like the skirt pictured from Curvety, rather than more cutesy florals.

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.

Autumn 07 Cinched Waist

The new Autumn/Winter lines are starting to hit the shops and there is much talk of the new season trends. I will be looking at these over the coming weeks but thought I would start the ball rolling with THE hot look - the cinched waist.

The stores will be filled with midi length dresses with waist belts plus tie waisted tops, jackets and coats. You can create this look yourself with the right belt. Belts are not always the easiest plus size accessory to find but there is a great selection at Curvety.com in sizes up to a 36.

This can be a great look for the more voluptuous amoung us, as maximising & accentuating your curves is the aim - time to celebrate those hips and bum! Choose a good quality material which is forgiving over lumps and bumps and use a fairly sturdy (not too thin as this will widen your waist) belt to cinch tight and you will have the perfect Forties hour glass figure. Size zero's will not stand a chance at matching your style with this look.