Here’s what we found this month!

We feature helpful brands who we think do great stuff for women with ordinary bodies (cos you know that’s our passion). Quite often they are small bespoke or specialist services but sometimes they are big brands too! We just write about them because we want you to know about them.

If you are looking for a specialist retailer, you can also look under your body shape in our shopping mall…why not have a look?

ASOS Curve

Here is a brand that is getting it right for Fuller figures…

Ida Ruby

To basque in some renewed style glory look here…

Penelope Chilvers

For beautifully crafted artisan shoes that make a strong fashion point step here.

Odeur

For modern, seductive unisex designs look no further…

Nelly.com

For stylish, contemporary pieces with an individual twist look no further.

Donna Ida

 

 

Get closer to finding your perfect jeans for your style and shape here.

VOUTIQUE

For special vintage pieces that will add eternal wardrobe joy take a look here.

 

Idaretobe.com

 

Click here for unique and creative designs in sizes 12 to 28.

 

Chelsea Paris

Searching for some unique, stunning and exquisitely crafted shoes? Then step no further…

Soomin

To uncover some object-of-desire-accessories that will form the Centrepiece to your look click here.

IGIGI

 

For designs that celebrate beautifully curvaceous and voluptuous figures click here.

 

www.pretaportobello.com

For great market fashion finds and unique designs without stepping out of your door click here.

A Alicia

For exquisitely crafted accessories to give your wardrobe an individual spin click here.

Rosenberg Shoes

Rosenberg really does know shoes – a family business that extends back to 1903 – they know their craft yet have a modern vision. What Rosenberg does really well is understand what we want from a shoe – stylish design that will make our hearts sing yet with comfort and ease for those of us who may happen to step out in size 9s or above. Rosenberg offers an extensive range of footwear in extra large, wide and small fittings without reneging on style. Stylish fashion-forward styles combined with old-fashion service and value makes for a winning combination.

As well as specialising in footwear, Rosenberg also now offers jeans, trousers and loungewear for tall women, specifically those of you over 5’10” tall. Rosenberg still work from their original building in Australia but they also ship internationally and you can purchase online.

All you have to do is just wait for the shoe desire to strike!

BENGT

 

As you know, here at www.howtolookgood.com we are passionate about celebrating your individuality and the woman that you are. As part of that we like to promoting those who have a different or unique point of view and so it only seems right that we tell you about BENGT. Born out of a similar passion for individuality, BENGT was founded in 2009 to be at the foreground of emerging fashion talent and committed to showcasing a unique collection of handpicked pieces that have been scouted from of the off-schedule shows at London Fashion Week and the Graduate shows.

So not only can you find some unique pieces to spin your own look but you can also support and discover some up and coming talent. The website also has an interesting, informative blog if you are interested in learning more about design news in Fashion.

Little Black Dress

From the many letters we receive, you are often looking for style advice on how to style up a dress into an outfit or are looking for a particular occasion outfit. Of course we always welcome your questions but as part of our ongoing free advice we wanted to give you a heads up to take a look at Little Black Dress.

Little Black Dress is an ‘e-house’ – home to an extensive range of dresses from international brands and designers – from the high street to independent labels through to high end designers.

Uncover the perfect dress for any occasion as well as the accompanying shoes, bag and jewellery. They also have a blog and plenty of information to inspire.

 

Not sure what dress types are best for you and your individual shape? Why not download one of our free ebooks to find out which styles we recommend and then search for them at Little Black Dress to find your own perfect LBD.

The Holding Company

 

 

Firstly it is always worth getting your fashion house in order. Organisation is the key and the way you display and store your clothes is vital. You can find out more about how to approach this in our free ebooks but it is also worth looking at The Holding Company, who have a whole range of simple, functional, stylish products in both contemporary and traditional to transform your wardrobe and bedroom. And why not stop at the bedroom – from bathrooms to kitchens and garages, they have numerous solutions to give structure and organisation.

Miinto

 

Have you ever been recommended of a great boutique but it’s nowhere near you? Or you want to discover some new designers and brands but not sure where to start? Well that is where Miinto steps in. Miinto is a collaborative project combining the fashion expertise of the best boutiques in the UK. They offer an extensive range of menswear, womenswear, childrenswear, sportswear and accessories.

Miinto works in partnership with the UK’s independent boutiques to bring you modern and unique fashion ideas and give you access to the latest fashions. You can now shop from thousands of independent boutiques 24/7 from wherever you are!

Style Sequel

It’s also worth thinking about adding a few vintage or rare finds to your wardrobe.You can read about one of Caryn’s favourite upstyling designers here.

Style Sequel gives you access to some of the most wonderful wardrobes in the world. From Paris to New York, Tokyo to Sydney, Style Sequel sources pieces directly from the closets of top fashion insiders and red carpet regulars. And all at great prices and quality so you can own something with its own story and find pieces that will give you everlasting style.

Style Sequel have an ever changing mix of beautiful pre-owned clothing, shoes and accessories from designer names and niche labels. You can also sign up for their targeted style alerts, depending on your own personal style or if you are looking for something in particular.

Elomi

 

This is the lingerie range that will leave room for plenty of lusting. All the on-trend styles go up to a JJ cup and their sexy knickers go up to a XXXXL.

Part of the Group that also brings you Freya and Fantasie, Elomi is a brand where sheer elegance and striking design go hand-in-hand with unparalleled fit and support. Beautiful lingerie that transforms your figure. Now there really is no excuse to sort it that underwear drawer!

Figleaves

 

Figleaves is a one stop for all your lingerie needs. They carry every style of lingerie and stock over 100 brands with sizes ranging from AA to K cup and 28-56 band.

They design their own line of essentials and sexy separates in lingerie, shapewear and sleepwear. Plus they’re well ahead of the game with regards to shapewear and new developments in that area. They’ve recently added Lyssé control leggings to their repertoire. These special high-waisted leggings are designed to look like normal cotton leggings but they have control qualities for a smoother silhouette and they go up to a 53-inch hip.

While you’re browsing at www.figleaves.com don’t forget to check-out The Body Wrap – whether you want to slim, shape, or boost your waist, it’s got it covered.

Little Women

 

Little Women is the online lingerie store dedicated to small busted women, especially for those measuring AAA, AA, A or B cup and who have had difficulty in the past in finding beautiful bras to fit.

Little Women stocks a wide range of styles specifically designed for women in 30AA to 40B cups as well as an exclusive range of AAA bras sized 32 to 40. Fabrics include embroideries and laces in prints, soft pastels, vibrant colours that are versatile to be worn under sheer tops. Options to fashionably enhance and make the most of your bust.

 

Ingenue London

 

Ingenue London is a label that designs an extensive range of dresses in a variety of styles that drape around a woman’s shape to flatter and camouflage. With a focus on figure flattery their dresses come in a variety of vibrant graphic prints, jewel block colours, subtle ombre prints as well as that now fashion classic – leopard print.

Ingenue London’s dresses are a bit of a ‘Do It All’  - taking you from work to a swanky do, a party to a park picnic and a wedding or Sunday brunch or two in between. They’re casual enough to be easy-peasy wear but also feisty enough to make a strong point and can be easily styled up for more fashion flare.

 

Lisa Curran

 

If you like your beachwear sophisticated, chic and carefully planned then you share the same swimwear sensibilities as Lisa Curran, a designer who has created a swimwear collection that encompasses all body types as well as a variety of style preferences – from the woman who wants to show a little more skin to her who wants to camouflage her tummy and the customer who requires more chest coverage.

Lisa Curran swimwear was born from her frustration from her own swimsuit woes and not being able to find a bikini to fit her curvy, top-heavy frame, despite mixing tops and bottoms.

Not just a selling site – Lisa can advise on what swimsuit is most flattering and will make you look and feel your best and most confident.

The Lisa Curran collection comprised bikinis, tankinis, Onepieces and sarongs using the finest Italian fabrics and hand-designed prints.

Storm in a D cup

Storm in a D cup was created in 2004 to fulfill a gap in the swimwear market for fashion conscious women who are a D cup and above. But more than filling a mere gap, Storm in a D Cup has stylish offering of swim- and resortwear that will have you looking and feeling your most confident best.

Being a ‘cup-sized’ brand they used their expertise to give ladies the confidence to make the most of their assets as well as flattering their overall figure. The collection includes an extensive range of bikinis, tankinis and Onepieces. Hidden underwiring, boning and power mesh discreetly give full support without compromising on style.

Curvissa

We believe that fashion should be about choice whatever your size and shape and that’s why we love Curvissa. They offer a selection of over 3,000 items in sizes 14-32 at great value but the quantity doesn’t mean a lack of quality –  they have a true stylish offering from trousers and tops to jackets and jeans.

As well as ecommerce the Curvissa website offers advice and tips via their blog and shape calculator. You can shop by style or occasion and they also have a trends section which gives style inspiration for the real world.

www.simplybeach.com

As we have had our first (hopefully not our last) glimpses of the sun here in the UK our thoughts turn to holidays and balmy summer fashion. www.simplybeach.com is a one-stop shop for all your swimwear and lingerie needs. The team at simplybeach are passionate about bringing you fashion-forward beachwear and accessories and they have options for you whatever your shape and size.

They carry a great range of brands and swimwear for fuller figures as well as kaftans, cover-ups, summer dresses, beach shorts, playsuits, beach hats and beach bags.

They’ve also introduce swimwear and beachwear catwalk videos so you can get a real idea of how the clothes look in action. Large photos are crystal clear and cover all angles to really get a good gauge of fit.

Pachacuti

 

Pachacuti is a contemporary fashion and accessories business built on the foundation of Fair Trade. Founded on a passion for improving the lives of Andean producers and their communities, Pachacuti supports a broad range of traditional skills from Fair Trade producers from knitwear to embroidery.

Pachacuti is internationally known for their panama hats. They have a large range of panamas made from native Ecuadorian toquilla palm as well as an extensive range of other styles. Our favourites are those with bright ribbons for a 2012 update.

 

Box 2

 

With over 30 years in the retail industry and an understanding of fashion for realistically proportioned bodies, Box 2 is the place visit for a unique and varied fashion offering. Originally opened as a store in Brighton in the 1980s the company has grown in to nationwide and worldwide-web business. Their focus is particularly for curvier figures.

Collections are of the highest quality with interesting and stylish pieces combined with a high level of customer service and attention to detail.  Box 2 also has a range of Very Important Pieces – essential items to provide the perfect foundation to your style house.

 

Petite Affair

 

Petite Affair has an exclusive stylish offering for women who are 5”3 and under – garments that are perfectly in proportion to show your figure off to its best. Together with stylish clothing and looks particularly focussed on dresses, tops and everyday wear , Petite Affair also has a depth of advice and tips on how to accentuate your petite frame.

Tall Girls

 

Tall Girls is a fashion emporium founded by Joanne McHarg who at 6”3 and with size 10 fee perfectly understands dressing for a tall body. She gives plenty of advice and practical tips as well as help with those who may lack confidence with their height.

Tall Girls also specialise in clothing specifically sourced for tall bodies with extra long jeans, extra tall dresses and skirts, long tops and larger sized shoes.

Cast Woman

One of the greatest secrets to style is a perfect fit, one that shows your shape off to its confident best.  A great fit is one that gently skims your body without any pulling or gaping. Many women struggle to find blouses and shirts to fit, especially if they are bigger busted. Well know more…At Cast you can buy shirts and blouses with different bust fittings.  They have redesigned, reconfigured and reconsidered every detail to make our shirts a perfect fit.

A beautifully fitting tailored shirt that can be dressed up with a suit or thrown on with a favourite pair of jeans is a staple for every woman’s wardrobe.

 

 

 

Gray & Osbourn

Gray & Osbourn is a mail order company specialising in elegant coordinates and versatile outfits for a more mature stylish woman. They offer a real and varied choice of clothes that are in high quality fabrics at affordable prices and with a focus on fit and flattery for all body shapes and, in particular, maturer figures.

They produce 5 new seasonal catalogues each year and you can find all the latest collections on their websites. Their collections are selected from European designers as well as from their own in house collection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elizabeth Rose

Elizabeth Rose is an independent boutique in Kent whose dedicated, hand-picked and edited offering really stands out and is a great place to find some unique and individual pieces.

Elizabeth Rose has a strong buying philosophy to choose clothes that offer their customers key high quality fashion looks in strong colours and individual styles. Customer service and training is second to none and many customers establish a strong relationship with the store, receiving advice on new fashions to fit their shape and style.

Tallulah Tu

 

A fall-back stash of great costume jewellery is every top stylist’s secret. It’s a great source to finish off, add an extra touch to or give a different edge to any look. Accessories are the extras that will give your look polish.

Tallulah Tu is the one stop shop for high fashion costume jewellery. With an extensive range of on-trend bracelets, statement necklaces, sparkling cocktail rings and luxe earrings, Tullah Tu is the perfect destination for a jewellery fix and all without spending a fortune.

Remember it is always better to go for one or two statement pieces that will draw the eye to where they are placed to give off a confident and considered finish. When you get dressed stand back and read the look you have created then consider whether any accessories will give you better balance.

 

 

 

Tara Starlet

As you can see from our spring/summer high street trends report, the 1950s is a key era inspiration this season. If you want to channel an authentic take on this trend then head to Tara Starlet.

Tara Starlet is a vintage inspired fashion line with responsible ethics and a timeless charm. Created, and run by a mother and daughter team, Tara Starlet is a family business, born out of a shared passion for the glory days of the 1940s and ‘50s, and a mutual concern for the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants. They take their inspiration from the original Pin-up paintings and silver screen starlets like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe as well as a collection of original patterns.

The collection is full of in-and-out waist dresses for hourglass va va voom and circle skirts for swing dancing and flattering curvy hips and thighs!

Tara Starlet are advocates of recycling and have a collection of original buttons and trimmings that they incorporate into their designs, giving their collection true authenticity. They also use end of roll fabrics, putting to good use what would otherwise be waste. This means that their designs are often made in a selection of different fabrics with a limited amount of garments in each, so you won’t find hundreds of other women wearing the same thing!

 

Derhy

If you’re looking for chic, elegant French-inspired fashion, then look no further than Derhy. The brand was founded in the 1970s and has some beautifully crafted pieces with a twist to give you elegant and individual style.

What makes the brand stand out is its focus on creativity and each year it works with 10 to 30 stylists. Some of these stylists have gone on to create their own lines and stand out fashion identities such as Martine Sitbon and Claudie Pierlot. The Derhy catalogue is more of an idea on style and trends rather than a simple product list.

For their spring/summer 2012 collection, Derhy looks back to their original inspiration: the folk spirit and teams this with a graceful, ladylike stance for a wardrobe inspired by the 1950s. Bold prints are graced by birds and feathers, and white lace, fearless colours and geometrical forms pop up on refined fabrics.

Peter Hahn

 

The Peter Hahn Spring/Summer collection blends on-trend style with timeless classics, while displaying the seamless tailoring, beautifully detailed stichwork and delicate fabrics for which the brand is renowned for. With a focus on figure-flattery, the high quality garments can be found in natural fabrics such as fine Supima cotton, luxurious cashmere and shimmering silks.

This cardigan perfectly taps into this season’s Paisley trend and gives a classic shape an on-trend twist. The classic v-neck shape will compliment curves and a bigger bust. Team with a classic white shirt and jeans for a classic yet contemporary feel or mix with a printed or coloured skirt for a further on-trend spin.

Cardigan, £109.00, Sizes 14-30, www.peterhahn.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Anna Scholz

 

Anna Scholz is a woman who understands curves and we’re big fans of her work. You’ll see in our Spring/Summer trends report how her beautiful designs flatter curvy bodies while giving you a trend fix! Just like this gorgeous dress that sumptuously caresses curves while and the hot pink is straight out of this season’s bright colour palette.

Anna began designing because she found it difficult to find clothes she liked that fitted. Her beautiful designs embrace women from size 8-26 and imbue a strong sense of glamour featuring decorative details and strong colour palettes.

Crepe Double Layer Cowl Dress, £229.00, Sizes 8-26,

www.annascholz.com

 

 

 

 

Old Ladies’ Rebellion

 

Old Ladies’ Rebellion is a fashion label run by 25-year-old Fanny Karst, who launched her line after becoming anxious to convert her beloved grandmother, who doesn’t like clothes. She set out to revolutionize the stylish options available to women her grandmother’s age but we think her designs will give anyone an individual twist to their style no matter what their age or shape.

Dresses are made to order and designed specifically to give more mature fashion-forward shapes in a style that suits them. The hand-finished garments are of high quality and not cheap at £500-£600 a time but worth the investment for a beautifully crafted piece that is unique to you and your unique style. Contact Fanny at www.oldladiesrebellion.com

 

 

 

 

www.ilovejeans.com

In January there’s always a hankering for comfort clothes and what can give you more comfort and ease than your favourite pair or blues. But finding the right pair of jeans with a perfect fit is not actually the easiest of tasks! That’s where www.ilovejeans.com comes in…

If you’ve not visited before then this dedicated jeans site has a wealth of denim expertise and advice and provides consumers with independent advice on the brands and styles available and how to find those perfect fitting jeans.

They cover high-end as well as high-street denim but what we love most is that you can shop and get advice by your body shape. So whether you’re pear, hourglass, tall, apple, fuller or petite they’ll show you the right jeans for your shape. They do have, in particular, some great options for petites so no more having to get the length’s altered and losing the shape of the jean leg.

If you love jeans then www.ilovejeans.com is well worth a visit.

Toast

 

Speaking of comfort clothes, Toast is a brand we love for its effortless take on design, comfort and relaxed style with a hint of fashion flair. Perfect for channeling this season’s heritage trend, the autumn/winter collection is bursting with classic capes, coats and jackets as well as plenty of knitwear and tailored trousers. But this is classic with a twist – Toast does its own thing and you can find some great pieces for your own individual look.

www.toast.co.uk is well worth a visit, if only for their beautiful catalogue images which are shot in location in Lapland, Argentina and Sri Lanka. You’ll be inspired!

Marisota

 

We’ve recently re-stumbled across Marisota and were in for a pleasant surprise. As well as being able to shop by trend, their website contains a wealth of advice on how to flatter your shape, focussing on particular areas such as your bust, tummy and arms.

Marisota also has a number of ranges, specifically designed to enhance your shape. From their Magi-sculpt range to give you a smoother waistline and hips while pulling in your tummy and bum for a sleeker, more shapely figure; their WOW jeans range designed to flatten your tum and lift your bum and fit your waist with no gaping at the back to their Simply Voluptuous range that comes in 3 fitting sizes to flatter bigger busts. Visit www.marisota.co.uk to find out more…

Karen Gillam

As a petite woman herself, Karen Gillam started designing her own range of clothes four years ago after struggling to find the right styles and fit to suit her shape and size. Karen designs clothes to flatter ‘real women’, 5’3 and under and offers a range of clothes that all hit the right fashion, styling and fit factors to give you sophisticated and glamorous ageless style.

Karen understands that a woman doesn’t necessarily get taller, broader in the shoulders and longer in the arms as they increases in dress size. Having always strived to create the perfect pair of trousers Karen Gillam has recently launched her ‘Sarah Trouser’ which has a waistband on the waist to give the impression of a longer leg and a sleek leg fit.

Lanky Bird

 

On the other hand if you’re a taller lady then we’re recommending Lanky Bird to you this month. Founded by Ali Allinson in 2006, Lanky Bird offers long classic essentials with a focus on fit and yet all garments are designed with unique features to give your look an individual twist.

Lanky Bird understand that as a taller woman your legs and/or bodies are longer but also that your arm span is greater and  that shoulders are often broader.  Lanky Bird work with some of the best European Mills to ensure they source the best in both quality and design. Ali has a background in Mens tailoring which instilled in her the discipline of paying meticulous attention to detail and the garments are very well constructed and manufactured to show your shape off to its best.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beige Plus

 

Beige Plus provides the ultimate retail therapy fix for women who are size sixteen and above. Leanda Walters started Beige with a small shop in 2002 after experiencing a limited offering and disappointing and uncomfortable shopping experiences as a size 20 woman herself.

There is a connection running through the pieces that Beige select to store – you’ll find easy, but functional tailoring (to give your curves definition), clothes for special occasions, weekend wear and cruise wear.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

www.6footfashion.com

6 Foot Fashion is an exciting new website that is a dedicated source of designer clothing and shoes for tall women (over 6 feet), with the aim of providing a one-stop-shop for your every fashion need. 6 Foot Fashion is dedicate to offering good fitting clothing and shoes by way of longer leg, arm and body lengths and larger shoe sizes.

From denim and daywear to hosiery and evening gowns, 6 Foot Fashion work with an array of renowned international designers and up and coming new talent. They work closely with suppliers creates to bring exclusive styles to the site which have been specifically altered in production in order to get a better fit.

From Somewhere

From somewhere is a creative sustainable fashion label whose collections are made with luxury designer pre-consumer waste such as proofs, swatches, production off-cuts and end of rolls. From Somewhere up-cycle this high-end fashion and textile surplus into beautiful clothes.

From somewhere have a shop on Portobello Road in London and you can also shop their garments online where you can really find something of high quality with a unique and individual twist. Something like this beautiful dress which would work well on pear shapes and also compliment curves or give you them if you’re slender.

 

Izzy Lane

Izzy lane is a cutting edge and unique ethical wool brand. Isobel Davies who is behind the brand is credited for her leading voice on animal welfare and the use of British Wool and the British Textile Industry. Not only does she create beautiful garments but she’s a sheep loving rescuer too!

Using the wool from Wensleydale and Shetland sheep her jumpers and cardigan cone in rich autumnal tones of purple, grape, emerald and ruby. She also has designed a range of checked nipped in jackets and matching maxi skirts which cleverly give the waist instant definition as well as looking elegant and sophisticated.

 

www.button-boutique.eu

We’re talking coats this month – see our new fashion trends page. The right coat makes everything look better and if you buy the best you can afford and the payback will be well worth it. Of course not everyone has the budget to do so think about replacing lesser quality trimmings, especially plastic buttons with more sophisticated ones such as decorative metal buttons which will give a more luxurious feel to coats and jacket.

And if it’s buttons that you’re after then look no further than Button Boutique. They’re based in Germany but ship all over the world and have the largest assortment of sewing buttons on the web with almost 7,000 different buttons to choose from! Whatever your style or preference you’ll find what you’re looking for in this button heaven!

www.mytights.com

If don’t know what to wear under your coat then start with a statement pair of tights and heels and you’ve got a great stand-out look all on its own! Voila!

For a great selection of tights, leggings and hold-ups then give www.mytights.com a click. They have hosiery suitable for every size, shape and occasion at a very good quality and great value. They have so many styles and colours to choose from you can have a new ‘coat look’ every day!

When it comes to tights, dark colours will slim and lengthen. If you want to go for colour then opt for berry tones, burgundy, mossy greens or charcoals. Heavily patterned or textured tights can also add bulk so opt for a pair like these Wolford Cheryl tights that are sheer and light and the pattern will actually cleverly draw a long lengthening line down your legs.

 Wolford Cheryl Tights, £33.00, Sizes S – L, www.mytights.com

www.daintyfeet.co.uk

You have the coat and now the tights and so just need some great shoes or boots to finish off a great coat-look! Take a look at September’s new fashion trends page for some shoes and boots inspiration. We gave some pointers if you have large or wide feet but if you’ve got small feet then take a look at Dainty Feet. They exclusively sell shoes in sizes 1-3 and have a whole range of fashionable styles to choose from.

These gorgeous brown leather and suede shoes will perfectly compliment a coat statement and add an individual twist to any look. Simply slip them on for a bit of ‘Cinderella Envy’ as others will be hoping they fit into them too!

Brown High Fronted Shoe
£50.00, Sizes 32-36, www.daintyfeet.co.uk