Another UK website worth visiting

Butterfly Print Rain Mac from Style 369.com

• Price: £29.50
• Colour: Grey
• Item code: 05J13LNEU

• Showerproof butterfly print rain mac
• With front zip and popper fastening
• Hood with draw cord
• Front pockets
• Length: 91cm (35")
• 100% Polyester
• Machine washable  

In sizes up to 24.  Delivery includes to Australia.

Where is my Australian audience?

It's interesting to study the statistics of viewers and visitors to this blog.   And I find it somewhat amusing (?), and surprising, to find that the majority of my visitors are from the USA.  Hi there to everyone in the US.

But where are my Australian "followers" hiding?   Is it a fact that anything "home-grown" is seen to be less interesting than overseas blogs and websites?   Or could it be that this blog just isn't interesting at all to Australian plus sizers?

If you're a plus sizer and you feel that you're being overlooked as far as focus, attitudes and fashion are concerned, then please become more involved with this blog.   Comment on what you see, and even suggest some of your favourite websites which we can highlight.

If there are issues or subjects which you believe are not being addressed when it comes to widening our knowledge of what a plus sizer needs and wants in this world, then write and participate through the monthly issue of RoseMary's NoteBook© (the newsletter).  

If you would like to have your own column and/or to write on a regular basis about things that you see are important (no diets, please), then contact us direct at rosemarypb@aapt.net.au and have a chat.

RoseMary's NoteBook© (the newsletter) is distributed world wide to a confidential mailing list which is managed by me personally, and not through a "third-party" company that initiates and sends emails from a "foreign desk".  

Come on girls, let's encourage more  involvement and thus more openly discussing those things that impact upon the lives of women, regardless of age, size and shape, in this day and age.

Australian fashion for the plus-sizer

I'm always on the look out for Australian designed and/or made clothing for women.  Especially for the plus-sizer.

I've just had a look again at the Zebart site and found some nice garments which will compliment any women's wardrobe.

See if you agree.

SOMETHING from NEW ZEALAND

There are some quite exciting websites providing fashion clothing for women.   One of my favourites is Zebrano and two of the labels that often take my eye are those of Chocolat and Mela Purdie.   Visit Zebrano's website and take a tour.

The "Wild" One - a girl's version

Lace Biker Jacket

Anna Scholz  has done it again!

White Label - EXCLUSIVE

Get your motor runnin'! Head out on the highway! Anna's fitted jacket takes biker chic to the next level in gorgeous black lace over a satiny cognac-coloured lining. This slimming hip-length silhouette offers an unusual colour combination and lovely texture. But you still get all the classic cool details, such as the brass off-centre front zipper, wrist zips and angled zip front pockets. Create sexy, sophisticated retro suits with a bad-girl edge by pairing this jacket with Anna's matching black lace skirt or dress, or with the matching cognac of the dynasty pleat shift dress. It also looks smokin' over Anna's leopard print silk pieces. Fabric content: 100% Nylon, Lining 100% Polyester

Maybe .....

Maybe Spring isn't really too far off.   Of course the fact that our overnight temperatures are down around the zero mark with top temperatures here in the foothills sometimes near enough to 14 doesn't really effect our thinking, when we see the sun shining.  It's not a hot sun, but it sure makes a person smile.  And in that smile our thoughts definitely DO turn to Spring.

I went out the front door this morning to check the post, and saw with such pleasure the one and only camellia bush on the block, out in bloom, with hundreds of buds to follow the first-blooms.

You only have to look at flowers in a garden to realise just how easily they adapt to colour variations.  I realise this photo shows what we used to call "a sport" (or a variation from the original colour of the blooms which should be on this bush) but when it sits in amongst all sorts of variations then it's a pretty sight.

That got me thinking.  How often do we allow our imagination to take flight when it comes to what we wear.  Most of know how to dress tone-on-tone and also contrast, but I love seeing women who let their fancy fly, and they dress in all sorts of colours and textures, complimenting each other, and most definitely complimenting the wearer.

I really don't understand when plus-sizers tell me that they "wouldn't dare to dress like that!"  My question is, like what?  Because clothing is clothing and should be worn with panache and style.  It doesn't matter what size we are.  It's all got to do with our self-esteem!   

Accessories - Scarfs

For many plus sizers, buying new clothes becomes a bit hard, especially if the budget is tight!   This is where accessories come into their own, and it doesn't take much to extend your wardrobe simply by adding accessories that attract the eye!

While most plus sizers have found a basic colour scheme to build upon, there are times when bright, vivid colour is needed to uplift not only the outfit but also one's confidence.

Like so many women I love scarves - I have quite a collection I've got to admit.   And while I have my favourites, I'm always willing to learn new and exciting ways of wearing them.

I came across this YounTube video from Coldwater Creek, and I'd encourage you to watch it.   It brings out the "creativity" side of me, and I've no doubt it will do the same to you too.

Watch and enjoy.

Pampering ourselves

It's during winter time that I come back to the idea that we should pamper ourselves more often.  Not that any other season doesn't demand we do likewise, but for some reason the cold, wet, wintry days bring with them the feeling that everything is dreary and damp and all we can do is have a hot cup of soup to keep warm and stay indoors for the day.

The past few weeks have certainly not been conducive to looking around the shops or shopping centres for clothes.  If I'm honest I do have enough to suit my lifestyle.  While I love bringing new fashion trends and ideas from local and overseas suppliers, I think it's also most important that we give ourselves our little treats now and then.

I ventured out this morning just to do the normal chores, and stopped and looked at the window display at a small florist in our local shopping centre.  All the presentations were flambouyant in colour, sizes and all with different types of petals and leaves.  Having chosen a couple of cards from the card display I walked to the counter at the back of the shop and was assailed by the most fragrant perfume imaginable.  And with that perfume came countless happy memories from the past.

Was the perfume from a big, bold, flower stem?  No, it was the tiniest little bunch of winter violets, sitting in a small glass vase on the counter.  There was no hesitation - I opened my wallet and bought them - just for myself.  Just to tell myself I am special!

The more I observe, the more I become convinced that plus-sizers particularly lose the inclination to "spoil" themselves occasionally.  Is this because we've been told or had it inferred that we're not worth it?  Because this is one of the unkindest lies told to us  -  we all need to know we're loved, and there's something special about a little bunch of violets that remind me that I am important and special to myself, and even more incredibly to others.

Isn't that worth celebrating?  

In what way do you occasionally "treat" yourself to something out of the ordinary?

Packing for a holiday

If you're anything like me, you start off with a few things to pack into your suitcase and before you know it, you have to change the case to a bigger one.  The reason is that so often we find we just "HAVE" to include this garment or that, and it seems that we leave home with an empty wardrobe, but a suitcase that is impossible to cart around because there's just too much in it.

Liz Davenport created a "Wardrobe in a Suitcase" many years ago, and it's just as pertinent today as it was back then.   The concept is simple - have a few well designed (and made) garments with which you can mix and match, and it's absolutely amazing how many outfits you can create with a little bit of thought.

Visit her website to see some of her latest collections.

To whet your appetite though, here's a sample of her "wardrobe in a suitcase".    I just love the idea - and for my plus size readers, look outside of the square.  If you can build up a practical, workable, and affordable wardrobe by sticking to the basics and in a few chosen colour schemes, then you have the same advantage of any of our slimmer sisters.  It's all in the challenge of allowing your imagination to go wild!

Looks like .......

Everything's coming up roses.  Or to be more to the point, everything's coming up florals.

And beautiful florals at that.  

Here's a couple that should delight the senses (and the pocket).

Firstly one from Yours (UK) in sizes 14-32.

And from Igigi (USA):

Sale! Sale! Sale!

If anyone thinks there's nothing much on offer when it comes to larger size clothing, then think again.  There's plenty, and there are so many sales STILL going on!

Zebrano (New Zealand) have some stunning labels and their Winter sale is gathering momentum.  Don't miss out.

Lady in Blue!

Simple lines, beautiful styling, a flattering look.  What more could you ask for?

If you like blue, then this is the dress for you.  Once again it's from Kiyonna.

Don't you love the neckline and the draping effect of the front?

Pretty Florals

Fashion trends come and go.   Some that we don't even want to think about.  Well, not we plus sizers that is!

But it's nice to see that florals have returned.  I've just visited the Kiyonna site again after a bit of a break and found this lovely outfit.  The skirt has the added bonus of a kick pleat, which makes all the difference to not only being comfortable but able to manage sitting down gracefully!

Big Girl in a Skinny World

There are some great videos around, and I just came across this one on Youtube.

Accessories, in this instance - BELTS.   It astounds me sometimes how many plus-sizers don't take advantage of all the BIG stuff that's around when it comes to accessories.

Just because there is more of us, doesn't mean that we should ignore our femininity.

Watch and enjoy.

There's a little bit of animal in all of us!

Amazing how the "fashion" cycle turns and we find some of our favourites coming back.   Animal prints are loved by many and I certainly add animal print scarves or even camis to my wardrobe whenever I see anything that really takes my eye.

Igigi have again brought animal prints into focus.   And what a wild feast this collection is.

A little bit of glamour!

It's so nice to see "pretty" things for the plus sizer.  Just because there is a little "more of us" doesn't mean that we should be ignored by manufacturers and retailers.

Such is definitely not the case when it comes to Big Time Clothing Co.

Leopard Print Cami

Camisole in printed crepe georgette with black piping around the neck and armholes. Side splits for ease of movement. Team with it's matching panel skirt and one of our jackets for a smart outfit to suit the office as well as take you through a night out. Add a necklace or scarf to change the look. Measurements: Length at side seam from underarm to hem:  In Sizes up to 28/30.

Retailers doing it "hard"?

We're being told that the retail industry is in the doldrums.   Especially the major retailers.

Does this explain why there are "sales" going on constantly?   I'm not sure.  But one thing I am sure of is that it doesn't matter what country you may be talking about, there are certainly clothing "sales" being promoted and advertised.  Some up to 50-60% off, and more.

One small thing that worries me sometimes is whether this clothing is priced too high to start off with?   Or are the retailers over-stocked?  Or is the quality of the garment impeding its popularity with potential customers?  I've got my own thoughts on this question.

However, do take advantage of some of the sales that are on the web at the moment.  Here in Australia - Undercoverwear.  Over the years Undercoverwear have extended their ranges into normal clothing.  Here are two tope , the first at $15 and the second which I can vouch for.  It's one of the most comfortable tops I've come across.   Honestly how could you better the cost of this at $4?   And there are some in the size 26-28 range.

Then there's this top from Evans - UK.  This is nicely styled and different to most you see in the emarketplace.

Autumn with a bit of Spring in the air!

Seasons come and seasons go.  And sometimes they become all mixed up!   So it's not unusual for one day to be down around freezing (and even snowing) and the next a beautiful sunshiny day with a warmth that only requires a light jacket to counter the prospect of a coolness later in the day.

Here are some lovely items from Woman Within  Take time to visit this site - you're sure to find something that will take your eye.  I particularly like the twill jacket (very slimming lines).

Dress up any outfit

Jackets are making a comeback, and there are some truly beautiful ones out there.   With leggings or pants, or even smart jeans, a jacket will take you anywhere - from the office to a cocktail party;  from home to a special function;  and just fun to wear when meeting friends for coffee.
Smart, stylish, formal, casual - what a choice!

The Carpenters Daughter has again come up trumps with their latest selection of jackets.   Visit their site at The Carpenters Daughter and see for yourself.

Thinking of summer!

Now, I'm known to have a quirky sense of humour.  But I just couldn't resist including a couple of lovely swimsuits in today's blog.   What made me think of summer?   Well, I've just been watching the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations which included the Royal Barge sailing down the Thames with a flotilla of thousands of boats.  In the pouring rain - heavy fog and everything in between - and it's supposed to be summer over there, isn't it?

Me? I'm shivering in about 7 degrees, trying to think "warm" thoughts, and inevitably those thoughts turn to the summer time.  So naturally swimsuits are a part of summer.   Hope you get my drift!

Here are a couple of swimsuits to appeal to your summery thoughts - and of course if you're planning to go to the tropics within the next week or so, then why not take advantage of getting something really snazzy to wear.

Visit Uniquely Me in the USA.

Winter Knits

Already the chill is in the air.   We don't need any excuse to snuggle up though.

What do you think of this lovely Poncho?   In polyester cotton knit, it has a front closing of big brass buttons.

This is the sort of garment that is surprisingly versatile.  If you have a figure that is VERY curvaceous then this style of garment enhances every proud inch.  Worn with leggings or slimline pants or jeans, then you are going to feel, and look,  fantastic.

Throw over any outfit and you'll get compliments aplenty.   And you'll also be warm and cosy.  Visit Big Time Clothing.  

Lounging and Leisure Wear

For the plus-sizer, it can sometimes become a problem in finding lovely "lounging" wear.   After full day either at the office, or being a Mum, the first thing you want to do is to change into something more comfortable.

How's this for starters?   Visit UllaPopken and see what I mean.   There's presently a sale on too - which makes it twice as attractive to spend a little time seeing what's on offer.

Fashion for "busty" women

It's nice to see that suppliers are recognising even plus size women have "shapes".   I notice on Evans UK website this morning that they have a line with compliments and enhances "busty" women.  

A nice black and white/neutral tunic top will show you what I mean.  

Then there are more colourful tops as under:

Even though we're entering Winter, there's no reason why we don't take advantage of summer sales from overseas, in readiness for the warmer weather that will follow the cold.

Approaching Winter

There's some nice weather gear around, and I've been especially looking for some nice coats.  Not just ordinary ones, but something a bit snazzier - we all need a bit of snazz during the colder weather.

So here's one from Ezibuy   It's called the Capture Texture Coat (Item No 84297) and is priced at $99.99 (I often wonder why they don't go to the rounded figure rather than ...99 - you can't get the 1 cent change! but there I go off on a tangent again).  Back to the subject of coats.

The Capture Texture Coat goes up to a size 20, so if you're fortunate enough to be a size 20 and under, then have a look at this coat to keep you looking smart during the cooler days and evenings.

Thick/thin Models

Plus sizers are constantly told that their figures are hard to design for.   Well, I have a similar thought when it comes to really thin women.  

This photo shows a model wearing pants that appear to be so tight that she can't stand with her legs together.  Don't tell me that models and women per se don't prefer to stand with their legs together.   So many models and so-called celebrities stand like little children caught out doing something naughty - where did that stance come from?

Why isn't it OK for a woman to have flesh on her arms and legs?   This photo to my way of thinking looks ungainly.  But then I might be old-fashioned!

Mother's Day 2012

RoseMary's NoteBook©

Mother's Day 2012

Mother's Day is here and we would like to wish all Mothers a very happy day as we celebrate the specialness of womanhood and motherhood.

Even if you are not a Mother yourself, it is still a day when we can all say a great big "thank you" to our Mums for being the amazing woman she is and will always be!

Let's not also forget our daughters who are mothers themselves.  Let us share their joy, and reflect on both our pride in them and their achievements.

At this time too, we would like to acknowledge those readers whose Mothers are no longer with us and to let you know we are thinking of you at this time, too.

I know how close I was to my own Mother; Mother's Day can be both a day touched with sadness yet a very sweet occasion as I recall all she did for me, based on unconditional love.   She was a most beautiful person who gave me the inspiration to see myself as a very special person - not based on looks or size and shape, but on natural and genuine characteristics of the feminine essence.

And to Mums who may have lost children - our loving thoughts go out to you as well.  Celebrate this day in your own special way for you need to be reassured that you are loved - even by your friends at RoseMary's NoteBook. 

So to Mums, Grand-Mums, Great-Grandmums; Step Mums; foster Mums; special Aunties and women who are regarded as "sort-of-Mums"; and Mum's to be; we say - Happy Mother's Day.   May you be surrounded with and by love, physically, emotionally and spiritually, on this special day.

Fondest wishes

Rosemary

Are we supposed to accept; to ignore; or to ask why? During this past week, the title of yet another article that  appeared in the Melbourne Sun-Herald, loudly proclaimed: Bigger keeps getting better and better.   My eyes were drawn to the article, because the very first words following the title were these:  BUMPER-size Victorians are ruling the retail roost, with some outlets reporting a 70 per cent increase in their plus size fashion business since 2010.   Now the content of the article sounds rather good to me - it means to my way of thinking that retailers are increasing not only their choices but also their sizes for the plus-size woman.   Read a little further and there appears to be still along way to go, because Target plans to expand its core range from size 18 to size 20.  Hurrah for the size 20s of this world.   It does mean however that the size 22 upwards woman is STILL ignored, to a large extent, by these retailers.    Thank goodness for those independent providers of plus-size fashion who understand our needs, and have responded with size ranges that meet those needs.  But I've digressed somewhat.  I'm beginning to believe that maybe I AM somewhat "thin-skinned" when it comes to being expected to accept certain inappropriate words to describe me and countless thousands of plus-size women.  I do not like the words "BUMPER-size".   And please note that the word BUMPER is highlighted in the article in BOLD as well as in capital letters.  I refuse to accept such words.    Look, I'm thrilled that the retailers such as K Mart, Target, and Big W are at long last recognising the marketplace potential of sizes in the 18 -20 range.  Of course I'd love to see their ranges going far beyond that size.   It's what is "inferred" in articles such as this that I object to.   Why should the reporter Andy Burns, start off by using the words "BUMPER-size"?  I ask respectfully, because if this article had commenced with the words, "Skeletal sized Victorians" or "Anorexic Victorians" I would imagine there to be a huge hue and cry (with every good reason) - about the words being judgemental; intolerant; unaccepting; discriminatory (there's that word again); lacking decent good manners, and totally inappropriate in a society where such inferences are politically incorrect.  But it seems, time and time again, that the plus-size is "fair game"!   Why does the media permit such unbalance in their reporting?  I guess it comes down to selling their papers and/or magazines.   Would love to hear your views.

Kimono/Duster from The Carpenter's Daughter

The Carpenters Daughter (don't you just love the name?) has garments in the size range of NZ 12-24.  All their garments are made in New Zealand.

I particularly like this purple floral Kimono/Duster.  What a statement piece.  An oversized flowing design, great covering, which gives a fluid appearance and movement. Featuring a tie for under the bust that can be wrapped around to the back and create a more fitting look.

Visit their site and see some other stunning garments.   http://www.tcd.co.nz/

A rose by any other name!

Cardigans come and go.  They're one of the staple basics of any woman's wardrobe, and by whatever name they go by, whether a cardigan, a cardi, a cape (with sleeves) or whatever, they are invaluable when an early evening chill hits the air; or when just an extra layer will give the comfort and warmth the body needs.

There's a lot of talk about the elderly woman wearing the outdated twinset (always with pearls of course!), but seriously I think it's about time that the true twinset had a comeback.  They're so sensible, so practical, so attractive, and ageless (whatever the so-called fashion pundits say).  

I like cardigans, especially those that are different in design.  Such as this one with a ruffle waterfall look about it.

What I do not like about some cardigans (not the one above) is this: 

 Cardigans or any garment that should be wrist length hanging down halfway over the fingers.  Honestly they might be "modern" but they seriously look as though they've been made for much taller women and somehow make the wearer look dowdy.  That's MHO anyway.  When they're handmade, they look as though the knitter lost the pattern and couldn't decide how long to make the sleeves!

Wedding Belles!

When it comes to wedding gowns, there's not really a lot to choose from for a woman who is "curvaceous".   But those gowns that are out there, are quite fabulous.

Here's a selection from Igigi.  Short or full length; fitted or flowing - whatever your heart desires.

A few pieces can go a long way!

Choosing an outfit ought to be easy.  And given some thought, it can be.

Maggie T has some luscious looking winter wear.  A few pieces and voila, an outfit that will invite compliments and even whistles of appreciation.  (And for a lot of women those "bloke" whistles still give a smile.  Being politically correct and not letting a bloke be a bloke who appreciates a woman and shows it, is a bit too much over the edge when you come to think of it.)

Local "Casual/Leisure" Wear

One of the companies that has been around for a while now is Black Apple.

Their range is quite smart, and many stores around Australia stock this line.   Here's an example of the Autumn/Winter range.  It seems that black and white, contrasted with bright red might be the rage this year.

For the woman who sews at home!

The lack of basic lingerie patterns for the plus-sizer has always been a matter which has frustrated women from sewing these garments at home.

Back in the 1980s though we had Kwik Sew and then Knitwit patterns which provided patterns for all sorts of garments, including lingerie.  

With the advent of the return of the "dress", many women would like to make their own petticoats (sometimes called "slips") and more particularly their panties.  This where the Knitwit Pattern Number 5100 in sizes 6-22 comes into its own.

This pattern provides two options in both garments - for the petticoat a thin strap with boat shaped neckline and a round neckline with firmer straps (all in one with the garment).   For those women who have taken to wearing maxi dresses again, lengthening the petticoat will provide added comfort, especially for fabrics that might become static or be made from a fabric that is see-through.  As far as the panties are concerned, there is a pattern for a waist high pantie as well as a more modern hip sitting garment.

As a one-off offer, here is Knitwit Pattern Number 5100.  The pattern is as new and has never been used or even unfolded.  The envelope however has a few wear tears.  It is complete with sewing instructions.

If any home dressmaker would like to purchase this pattern, then please email direct.   The price is Aud $10 and Australia Post Express Post Satchel of $9.55 making a total of Aud$19.55.     If anyone overseas is interested in purchasing this pattern, please email direct and we'll send you information on appropriate postage costs.  Be quick to take advantage of this.

We'd encourage you to also visit our new"sister-blog" - The Serendipity Studio! at http://theserendipitystudio.blogspot.com.au/ for all sorts of other offers of pre-loved "treasures" to enhance your life.