When I worked at Woman magazine I used to do a lot – and I mean a lot – of reader makeovers. This meant getting readers to come to a studio for a professional makeover – hair, make-up and a new look. And, I often turned to Simply Be to do this.
Now, you may have dismissed Simply Be as simply being for plus size figures as in 16+ – which it was when it first launched in 1999. But, today it offers so much more fashion starting at size 12 – tapping into the ‘real women with curves’ market.
Some stylists I have worked with found dressing ‘normal/curvy/plus-size’ (as in non-model sized) bodies a challenge. I on the other hand found it rewarding. Seeing someone who may not have any confidence, someone stuck in a fashion rut or even someone who has lost a significant amount of weight see themselves in a different light was an amazing feeling.
Having found myself of the more curvy side of a size 12 in recent years means I’ve had to find new ways to dress my shape – and I truly believe no matter your size you shouldn’t let it restrict you. As is the Simply Be mantra ‘Be confident, Be You’
Amen to that.
And, on that note I have worked with Simply Be to show you a few Christmas looks to suit your shape.
LOOK 1: Have a slimmer waist area? Then try this full midi with a cute festive knit tucked in to enhance those curves. Earrings || Jumper || Skirt || Heels
LOOK 2: Want to hide less than perfect hips and thighs? These crepe palazzo trousers will hide the lower half. Balance the look with closer fitting knit. Earrings || Sweater || Trousers || Shoes
LOOK 3: Think you can’t wear lighter colours? Then this cream tunic and zipped skirt shows otherwise. Team together with tights and heels or wear over skinny leather leggings – just pull the skirt up above the waist and it gives the effect of a double layer top (see here for what I mean). Earrings || Tunic || Skirt || Shoes
V. I. BE HONEST: This is a contributed post but all thoughts, options and styling advice is my own.
