Aussie Curves - Pink

Another week of Aussie Curves has rolled around. I did take photos for last week, but did not get a chance to write a post. Nevermind, I might share the photos later in the week. I think the more I can share how I dress while pregnant the better. Not so much because I am vain, but simply because there are so few photos of plus size Mumma's on the net I figure every picture helps :)

At nearly 36 weeks the emphasis is definitely on comfort when I dress. The weather had been going from really hot 30 degree days, to more mild 24 degree days. Added to the mix is the fires that are happening not too far from my home. That is a post for another day.

Shorts - Target

Top - Big W

Kimono Jacket - Tree of Life

Sandals - Kmart

Bangles - Lovisa

Necklace - Boutique stall (Unknown name)

I have never worn these shorts out in public. They are maternity shorts, and I have felt they were too short for me to wear. However I have seen so many fellow curvettes in short shorts recently, and they all look rather fab! I am very self conscious of my knees, which is why I've never worn these out. Except I realised when I look at other peoples I rarely notice their knees. So I decided to pop on my super comfortable shorts and head out to a fair with my daughter. In a case ultimate 'pushing my comfort levels' I also went out sans make up!

The kimono jacket is just beautiful. I love the pastel florals, and the light breezy weight. It was perfect for this week's pink theme. I love how it blends the two different patterns, and has such a soft pink tone. I kept accessories simple with a pretty bunting necklace and pastel toned bangles.

My sandals are super old, and date back to when I was pregnant with my daughter. I swelled up something fierce at the end, and these sandals (I also have them in gold & silver) were all I could wear, with the buckles widened as far as they could go. Thankfully I am much less puffy this time, but my feet are starting to swell in the heat.

I felt great in the outfit, it was comfortable, light and perfect for the school fair. It was lovely to spend some time with my daughter before the arrival of her sibling. We made purchases from the cake store, I picked up some beautiful material from a stall, and we shared a snow cone.

 Just what this Mumma and Sister  to be needed :)

What do you wear on hot days? Are you shorts-phobic like me?

Check what the other 'Pink Ladies' are wearing this week!

Aussie Curves - Work

This week's theme was work. I decided to keep it 'authentic' and take pictures of what I put on just before I headed off to work. I only work 3 days a week, so I have 3 outfits to share with you.

I am a High School Teacher, and so I would describe my attire as smart casual. I don't believe that teachers need to dress in corporate attire. I don't believe the nature of our working environment is suitable for this type of dress. However, I also think that teachers should not dress too casually. We are in a position of authority, and need to dress with that in mind. Even amongst teachers there is a lot of discussion about what you should and shouldn't wear.

There are a few 'rules' that I keep in mind when dressing for work

• Must be comfortable -  Nothing too tight or restrictive. I need to be able to write on the board and move around.
• Wear flat shoes or low heel- My classroom and staffroom is at the top to two flights of stairs. However, all photocopying, toilets and duties are down stairs. This basically means lots of walking up and down stairs through the day. I may also have playground duty or sport depending on the day. Plus, I find the mostly concrete surfaces are not very forgiving for heels.

• No Necklaces or Big earrings - This is mainly due to the fact I carry my keys around my neck on a lanyard. I find they just get tangled with and necklaces and earrings, and I kept finding myself pulling them off through the day, so now I don't bother.

• Layers - I work in an area where it can get very cold during Winter, and very hot through summer. I am INCREDIBLY blessed that my classroom is air conditioned (a rarity in the public high school system). However, due to how much I move around through the day outside my classroom it is best to be layered up.
• Modest - Necklines can't be too low, clothing not too tight and skirts too short. Not that that is my personal style anyway.

This does mean that sometimes I feel my outfits are quite bland. I do love a good scarf though. It is something I have especially picked up from the school I am working in now. Accessorizing with a good scarf really lifts the whole outfit and can add a bit of colour.

Day 1

Day 1 

Dress - Big W - Maternity

Cardigan - SES

Shoes - Rivers

Scarf - Big W

 Hi Lo Top - Crossroads

Ponte Pants - Target Moda 

Wedge Shoes - Joanne Mercer

Scarf - Stall (not a brand/shop)

Peplum Blazer - City Chic

Striped Tee - Big W

White maternity singlet - Big W

Dark Denim Jeans - Autograph

Flat Shoes - Rivers

Get more work inspiration from the ladies below!

Best & Less - Plus Size fashion

There has been much excitement in the Australian Plus Size community regarding an announcement by a local retailer that they will be offering more items that go up to a size 26. Even better, they will not hike up the price simply because it is in a 'plus' size.

Best & Less have had a plus size range for a while, Lily & Lou. It is a bit hit and miss, but it is still encouraging to see a retailer that is offering affordable items that are (mostly) in fashion.

This latest range looked really encouraging, so I decided to go check it out'

I decided to try on  the sheer/pleather tunic top that is shown above, as well as a chambray shirt and a floral tunic dresss.

First up, the black tunic top. I was not expecting to like this, as it is a cut that I usually find doesn't flatter me. However, I ws pleasantly surprised. I did go up a size to the 22, in order to allow for my expanding baby bump. The top slightly gathered on my hips, but otherwise looked quite nice. The quality is good considering the $20 price tag. I loved how they looked with my DP wet look leggings. I would say try both your normal size, and a size up, to see how it looks on you.

 Next I tried the floral tunic. The print is really beautiful, and it is made from a stretch knit, with a pleather sash. Normally the sash would go around your waist, but obviously it worked better for me above the belly at the moment. The only downside would be that I would need to remove the belt loops if I wanted to wear the sash where I have. Again, I went up a size, but mainly because I felt as I get bigger it will be less tight across my bottom. In the picture I am wearing the 20, but I bought a 22.

I was very close to buying this chambray short. It is on trend, and well cut. The 22 was a little tight in the arms, while the 24 was to big in the bust and back. I hesitated because of the arms, but I suspect they will loosen up with wear. I posted this picture on the AC facebook page and have had so many compliments I suspect I will go back and buy it next pay. Again, it was a steal at $20 and is very on trend.

My one criticism would be a lack of colour. They still offer a greater range of coloured items in the 8 - 16 range. This is frustrating, because there are items that I want, and they only offer it in black in my size, yet offer the same item in a variety of colours in the smaller sized range. I really wish retailers would offer items in a better variety of colours, yet I suspect that perhaps not all of the plus size community is embracing colour as much as the Aussie Curves ladies.

Head out to Best & Less and have a look. Let's support the retailers that are catering more to the plus size community.

Aussie Curves - Celebrate!

As I dressed this morning I realized that the outfit I was wearing was perfect for this weeks AC theme. Not because I was heading out to a party, I was just going shopping. I realised I had different reasons to celebrate.

Let me explain.

I have spoke quite a few times about how wonderful I have found participating in the plus size fashion blog hop. I have seen my style evolve. I try on things that I never would have looked at twice, and I am opening up to a whole heap of different brands I never would have known existed.

So, what is there to celebrate about this outfit? (Yes, I realised later i needed to clean the mirror. Damn toddlers and their grimy fingers)

Tunic - Belle Chemise 

Leggings - Dorothy Perkins

Boots - Target

Cardigan - Millers

Firstly, the leggings. These are 'wet look' leggings. I the past I would NEVER, EVER have looked twice at them. I would assume that my tree trunk legs would look awful in them.

 Truthfully, I definitely need to wear them with a tunic, as they look less than flattering on my bum and upper thighs. However, the fact I bought them in the first place is worth celebrating. They are a symbol of how much I am evolving. They show that I am open to trying new styles. I also tried on a few other tops while shopping today, and was delighted to see they looked great wit the leggings.

Then there's the tunic. I am a little in love with this tunic. I picked it up on the weekend at some local markets. It is handmade, designed in Australia by a business called Belle Chemise . The lady, Jean Hines, had actually only just made the design that week, and had sewed them ready for the market. It is sleeveless, with a cowl neck, and is made from a  sheer fabric.

 I am celebrating the fact that even market stalls are embracing the plus size figure. I am proud that I saw the tunic, decided to try it on, and when I saw it looked exactly as I wanted, I bought it. In the past I would have assumed it would not fit, would not look good, and also would not spend the money on myself, because it was $50.  Instead, I have learnt that you must try things on. I also knew that this was worth the money. It is an unusual item, but offers versatility. Plus the colours were amazing. The tunics are not loaded on her website yet, but if you like it I urge you to send her an email. There were a heap of different fabrics and colours ( I am wearing 'Free size - plus').

So, I am celebrating Aussie Curves. I am celebrating the Plus Size community, and I am celebrating another wonderful year where I am inspired and challenged each week :)

What have you go to celebrate this week?

Aussie Curves - Pink

It's pink week!. I really quite like the colour pink, but find I lean more towards magenta pink rather than hot or light pink. The hard part about wearing pink as an adult is making sure it looks grown up, rather than 'stuck in your childhood'. I also think yo need to find the right shade to work for you. Baby pink goes nothing for my colouring, often making me look more yellow toned, and double the size. I prefer richer toned pinks, especially as my hair is a darker colour.

Singlet (not seen) - Big W Maternity

White tunic top - Katies

Skinny Leg maternity Jeans - Target

Suede Wedge boots - Target

Scarf - Big W

Belt - ASOS

The weather has been miserable the last week or so. I decided to layer up n this week's outfit. We were heading out for a high tea to celebrate my Sister's birthday. I wanted something pretty but warm. I pulled it in with the belt, as is gave me a better shiluette. I find I perfer to do up my belt under the cardigan, but either way will work.

The photo quality isn't the best. I am experimenting with taking photos using my iphone, but need to have a look for more apps that will help me get a better picture quality. I took advantage of the fact we have an empty room at the moment, as the room I am using is the soon to be 'Big Girl' room for my daughter. You can see signs of the panting being done in the background.


I felt so comfortable in this outfit. It is modeled on an outfit I put together on my maternity style boards in this post.

Cardigan. Tick. Scarf. Tick. Skinny Jeans. Tick. Singlet. Tick. Tunic top. Tick.

I warn you that you may see the skinny leg black maternity jeans feature in quite a few posts. As well as my black suede wedge boots. That's the thing with a maternity wardrobe, you have to make a few pieces work in multiple ways.

I'd love to know of any great photo taking apps. Many of my photos seem a little grainy. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to improve this?

Check out all the other shades of pink the other ladies are rocking this week!

Aussie Curves - Boho

I decided to try something a little different this week for the Boho theme. There are times when my wardrobe definitely leans towards Boho. I just love exotic patterns, bright colours, chunky necklaces, earrings and multiple bangles.

I attribute part of my love for Boho to my youth. Being a plus sized teen was difficult, as when i was growing up there was very little above  size 14 - 16 for my age group. I leaned on the items I could find from Tree of Life, with it's flowing silhouettes and one size fits all.

I have a few pieces I could have chosen to wear, but i decided to do something a little eclectic, which to be is exactly in the spirit of the bohemian.

There was a time when I wore a vast array of those layered skirts that are made from Indian fabric. These skirts are often sold in little booths in shopping centers and come with a dvd that show you the many different ways you can wear them. I never had much luck with turning my skirts into a dress or any of the other designs. I wore one of these skirts during the AC Celebrity Copycat week ( I was channeling my inner Asher Keddie aka Nina Proudman)

However, i had a sudden thought that I could possibly wear the skirt like a kaftan!

 Jeans - Autograph

'Kaftan/skirt'- Unnamed brand

Shoes - Kmart

Accessorises - Unknown (Most of them are really old!)

While this look certainly isn't the most 'flattering', it is colourful and comfortable.

I played around with the skirt a bit and found I could wear it a few different ways. One way was to simply drape over my shoulders and tie the skirt string around my back. Another way was to bring forward the purple layer and crisscross it across my front, securing it with a belt. This made it look like a full kaftan. The last look I gathered the second layer to the front and let it drape a bit like a scarf, but i conched it in with a belt again to give a bit more shape.

I accessorised with bangles a big pair of dangly earrings, although I wish I had some big gold ones. I  really need to update my makeup supplies. I am a bit dissapointed with how my makeup looks here, as it looks like i'm not wearing any!!! This would be fine, except I had hoped to do a heavier make up look, but was limited by my supplies. Note to self: Get some darker lipstick!

I think this is a look i'd really like to play around with. I might try it again with one of the shorter skirts I have. Seeing as i'm pregnant I think this look plays up the bump rather nicely, and can see it looking even better once my bump gets bigger and firmer.

Tell me, what do you think? Does this look work? Should I wear it out in public? I'dd love to know other people's opinions.

Meanwhile, check out how the other ladies are channeling their inner bohemian!

Aussie Curves - Feminine

Lately I have felt anything but feminine.

My problem has been that I felt I had let a lot of my beauty care slip. My hair had grown too long, and the ends were very dry, while the roots were oily. I was not using any skin cleanser or moisturizer as I had run out, so my skin was dry and flaky. I had also run out of foundation, and tried to supplement with a cheaper brand, which was simply awful. So, all in all, I have felt pretty miserable about how I am looking.

It has made me realise how important having a beauty regime is. I think taking care of yourself, your appearance, and your mental health is what makes you feel feminine. If my hair looks healthy, and my skin is glowing, I often feel happier. This makes me feel more confident, and I am more likely to wear an outfit that makes me feel good too.

In order to get myself out of this slump I decided to take action. Firstly, found some facial scrub and moisturiser that I had tucked away and started using it. I still want to buy some new skin products, but these were a start. My skin is now looking much healthier. I have arranged to have a facial during the school holidays too.

I also went and tried some new foundation. I took home a sample of a foundation to try (this way I did not make the mistake of buying one that I did not like). I am so far very happy, so will mostly likely buy it while the sales are on.

I also booked a hair appointment. Off went the length and dry ends. I also completely changed my colour to a richer auburn, and added a fringe.

For the photos I dug out a vintage dress, added some bling and pearls, and snapped away.

I feel fantastic. I feel confident. I feel feminine.

Plus Size Maternity Wardrobe Series - #3 Where to shop

The difficult part in plus size maternity wear is finding what shops make maternity wear in plus sizes.For the basics you really can't go past your usual department stores. The prices are cheap, and they stock up to a size 20, sometimes 22.

Big W - They have some good skinny leg jeans, Plain straight stretch dresses and great cheap plain ruched tops. They go up to a size 20, but they are generous sizes. Their plus size Avella range is also worth a look, as some of their items will work well through pregnancy.

Kmart - They have some good ruched tops and maternity jeans. Their range seems smaller, and I find Kmart sizing to be very narrow. If you are a 14 - 18 you will most likely find some basic pieces here.

Target - They go up to a size 20 in the maternity range. They have fashionable maternity pants in lots of varieties, some lovely maternity tunics/dresses and have a good variety in maternity tops. Look at their online store, as they stock some extra items on there that they don't offer instore!
Again, their Moda range is also worth a look, to see if some of their plus size items will also work through a pregnancy.

Top Tip : Don't just look at maternity sections. You can often find clothing that will work well in normal stores. I found many great maternity friendly pieces in Millers and Big W in their normal range. Just look for longer length (to allow for your belly) and stretch fabric. Many maxi dresses are flowy from the bust down and these are great for maternity wear.


However, some of us do not fit in the maternity range offered by retailers. If this is the case, there is hope for you yet! Plus Maternity - is an online store that specialises in offering maternity wear for sizes 18 - 28. They are a fabulous Australian owned company that actually design and make their plus size range with the plus size woman in mind. There are lovely basic pieces that can easily help you build a maternity wardrobe that will see you through the pregnancy.

Plus Maternity

There are other online stores that are worth a look at, that also stock plus size ranges.

Old Navy - they stock up to a XXL in some of their range, fitting a 20 - 22. They are worth a look because the clothing is usually on trend, and because their seasons are opposite to ours you can often find some great bargains on sale.


Angel Maternity - They stock some larger sizes, with a plus size category, but seems to go up to about a 20 -22. There is a nice variety of clothing in a range of prices. Great if you need something nice for a special event

Plus Size Maternity Wardrobe series - #2 The basics

Now you have checked your own wardrobe and sorted out any clothing you think you can keep wearing, it might be time to buy a few maternity pieces.

There are a few staple items that I think you should have

T shirt / Materinty Floral Maxi Dress White Tropical / Maternity / Bold Stripe Maternity Tube Skirt / Shelf Bra Nursing Singlet / Maternity / Maternity / Double Layer Bump Band

- Maternity Jeans - Wide leg and skinny leg
- Long stretchy singlet tops in black and white
- Belly band in Black and white
- Plain tops with ruched sides ( Short sleeve if during summer, long for winter)
- Stretchy straight skirt
- Black Tunic dress
- Maxi Dress

If you have these basics then you can pretty much put together a number of lovely outfits by mixing and matching pieces from you existing wardrobe.

For Example

Maternity Jeans
Plain Top
Chunky colourful Necklace
Ballet Flats
A Cardigan

Black Tunic Dress
Collared Shirt worn under the dress (You don't have to do it up from the bust down)
Stockings
Low Heel
A necklace

Maxi Dress
Low heels
Chunky necklace

Skinny leg jeans
Long singlet top
Tunic top
Boots
Long Cardigan
Skinny Scarf

Straight Skirt
Plain Ruched top
Sandals
Long necklace or big earrings


Much of the items shown are the types of things you would already have in your wardrobe. With a few basic maternity pieces, and some items you already own, you are well on your way to having a fashionable maternity wardrobe.


Are there any particular must have maternity basic item you think is needed? Share your tips!

Plus Size Maternity Fashion Series - #1 - Work your wardrobe

I am currently expecting my second child, due mid November. Maternity fashion can be challenging, with your body expanding and your old wardrobe rarely working well with your changing body shape.

Being Plus Size and Pregnant  Even more difficult. It can be hard for a plus size lady to find nice maternity clothing that fits. Many Maternity brands only go to a 16 - 18, so if you are a size 18 + before falling pregnant it can be difficult to find maternity clothing that fits.

However it isn't impossible. Over the coming weeks I am going to share with you my own maternity wardrobe and share some tips and tricks that I am learning along the way :D

he very first thing you should do is have a good look at your wardrobe and make a list of what clothing you have that you think will be able to be worn through the pregnancy, or at least until the third trimester.

Things to look for are:

Dresses
- Maxi dresses in a stretchy fabric
- Empire line dresses that are stretchy or have a full skirt

Bottoms
- Maxi skirts that have stretch
- Pencil skirts that have stretch
- Pants that have a fold down band or elastic waist
- Jeans that are elastic, stretch or are able to have a belly belt attached
- Leggings - Especially full styles that may go up to your belly or higher.

Tops
- Look for tops that are flowing from under the bust
- Tops that are stretchy and long
- Tops that may have ruching on the side or under the bust
- Any tunic tops

Can we see a pattern here? Check if it has stretch!! If it is stretchy, you will get a bit of extra wear out of it. If you have some (or all?) of these items then you are well on your way to building a maternity wardrobe. You can extend the wear of some items by doing some of the following

Turn shorter dresses into a tunic/top. Sometimes your dresses appear to be shorter on you because more fabric is being taken up by your expanding belly. Sometimes you can then wear that dress as a tunic instead. Try seeing what it looks like with some leggings or skinny leg jeans.

Use a belly band. You can undo the buttons/zip on a pant or skirt, but then add a stretchy belly band on over the top. I will keep the item from falling off, while giving you room for your expanding belly.

Undo the first few buttons of a button down top and wear a singlet underneath, or open the top up completely and wear it like a jacket.

Shopping your wardrobe will definitely help you keep costs down when you are trying to put together a maternity wardrobe. After all, you only really wear it for about 6 months (given that the first 3 you can usually squeeze into your normal clothing) so you don,t want to spend a fortune on it.  However, you DO want to feel and look good. It is an exciting time, but your body goes through so many changes, feeling like you LOOK good definitely helps.

Do you have any cost saving tips for maternity fashion?