I should be in bed right now, eyes closing and legs feeling weaker and weaker, dreamy ideas clouding my brain. However, I am awake reflecting on my busy Saturday. I had a great girlie afternoon with a great friend - we did the shops, the ever so healthy girl-talk, tried on some boring cardigans, found some great shoes and ended up sharing a slice of pecan pie, with the obligatory cuppa.
Most of you know I'm based in the heart of Europe, Brussels. Today's shopping trip was in Liege, an hour away. We visited a new shopping centre and although not overtly impressive, it is airy and has a few decent shops. What I didn't enjoy so much was seeing the collections by some popular local brands, boring and shapeless. I particularly desteted Paprika. This brand supposedly "caters" for big women, whether tall or curvy. I have to say, their clothes are as boring as the name of the brand, as bland as a sugarless slice of cake, as unflattering as wearing a sack of potatoes as a prom dress. Bo-ring.
Thank God for stimulating brands like Mango, designing sexy wear for women who know they deserve to feel gorgeous in their own skin and the fabrics that cover them. They have used plus-sized models for their campaigns and now we can only hope their range of sizes will go over a size 16 (EU 44).
Their designs are already pretty interesting for anyone with curves.
This raspberry dress above is perfect for an evening wedding, or a special soirée. The colour is easy to wear and the plunging neckline is simply stunning.
This full-length boho number is simple and perfect for tall girls. The skirt is straight, sleek and should elongate the figure instead of drowning it. The one shoulder strap adds some classic glamour.
If it's a day dress you're after, this colourful dress pictured below will hug your waist leaving the natural shape of your body to do the rest. The print is not overtly busy and very appropriate for spring. The cut is simple but effective.
This fun number below offers an alternative as a retro day look. Feminine and cheeky, great length and made to show off some sun-kissed shoulders.
As we already said, the size range at Mango still needs to improve, but at least these dresses are designed to flaunt, not hide what one has. These cuts are flattering and sexy. This is how women want to dress and this is what big women should find in every shop, easily.
And now, finally, nighty-night my darlings xx
Pictures: Mango