Lola and Luxury Lace Bras from Gossard

Gossard sent me some gorgeous lingerie from the Lola range and Luxury Lace range recently.  Gossard have always been on the cutting edge of lingerie fashion and it was great to try these fantastic products.

I am impressed.  Being a plus-sized person, I have found that over the years, it's been almost impossible to get well-fitting, reasonably priced, pretty, colourful and stylish lingerie and I do feel that these ranges cover all of these bases.  The first range I tried was from the Lola collection.  The Lola neon pink with turquoise ribbon detailing non-padded bra (pictured) comes in sizes 30D to 38G, the plunge bra in sizes 30D to 38E and the shorts and thong in extra small to extra large.  I love the colour combination of this range with the complementary turquoise ribbon and neon pink lace, giving it an amazing colour pop.  The non-padded bra is very supportive, with an inner net and criss-cross, gateback on  the back making me feel comfortable yet attractive.

The second range I tried was from the Luxury Lace collection. The Luxury Lace plunge bra comes in sizes 30D to 38F (pictured below in aqua).  Slightly padded, it allows for one's cleavage to look awesome!  I also tried the thong (again, below) in extra large which fit and looked superb.  There's also a balcony bra from 30D to 38E and the shorts and thongs in extra small to extra large too.  This range comes in three different colours - an aqua/turquoise blue with candy pink ribbon as shown, a darker, almost purplish blue (selling out fast with discounts on this gorgeous colour) and classic black - the latter two with baby pink ribbon detailing.  There's also a fab suspender belt in the dark blue to complete the look.

To conclude, thank you to Gossard for introducing me to these lovely ranges; my husband thanks you too! And as a savvy and canny shopper, I do think the pricing is very good already for quality, gorgeous and unique products, but do watch out for discounts, sales and voucher codes which become available at certain times making their ranges even more desirable!

Silver Bells Blazer from Great Plains

There are some nice offers at Great Plains at present and there are loads of gorgeous dresses, tops, trousers coats and more available, all great quality at great prices.

This 'Silver Bells' cobalt blue blazer is perfect for the transitioning months.  It's a perfect blend of cotton with a hint of elastane, so will fit perfectly. And, of course, the cobalt blue is the colour for Spring!  I'd wear it with a simple t-shirt, skinny jeans and pumps for a casual, daytime look, but it could also be worn to the office over a tailored blouse and skirt.  Best yet, it was originally £75 but is just £24 in the sale - a real quality bargain.

Strapless Pleated Maxi Dress from Marks and Spencer

Today, Marks & Spencer launched a fantastic three day Mega Event offering 20% off clothing, shoes and accessories - it ends on Tuesday 25th March and is online only.

I have had my eye on this cobalt blue maxi dress for a while now. The cobalt blue is one of this season's key colours. The pleats, ruching and belted waist will ensure the fit is flattering to most figures. It's totally glamourous and is perfect for an evening out, teamed with gold heels, jewellery and a sophisticated updo hairstyle. It could also be worn to a wedding - either as a guest or as one of the bridesmaids. Originally £89, with 20% off it's £71.20 during the Mega Event.

Flocked Bird T-Shirt from Warehouse

Cobalt blue is one of the colours for Spring 2014. It's eye-catching, striking and looks amazing with almost all skin tones and hair colours.  It works with clothing, jewellery, nail polish - anything!

The sales right now provide a good opportunity to find some key pieces in this colour at bargain prices.  I've spotted this flocked bird patterned top in the Warehouse sale.  It's a simple top, but the subtle bird pattern prevents it from being boring. It's versatile enough to be worn with anything for a casual, daytime look; I think it would be perfect with shorts and sandals.

It's still available in sizes 6 to 18, reduced from £26 to £15.  Delivery is normally £3.99 but free when you spend £75 or more using code FREE75.

Maryna Kick Dress from Baukjen

Customers can now save up to 60% in the Baukjen sale where the focus is understated, everyday looks women can wear and still look chic and elegant.  The quality of the products is excellent, the styling is classic and each piece is easy to wear for most occasions.

I'm very taken with this Maryna kick dress in a fabulous ink blue, almost purple colour.  Made from a heavyweight jersey fabric with elastane, it will create a gorgeously flattering feminine silhouette with the full skirt balancing out the hips.  It can be worn simply as is or cinch in the waist with a thick leather belt for a lovely hourglass shape.  This colour has been reduced in the sale from £139 to £97; a black version is also available for £111.

Best of the Sales: Atterley Road

Atterley Road stocks some gorgeous, designer fashion so it's worth having a look when there is a sale on.  New lines have just been added plus there are further reductions meaning there's now up to 75% off.

On my new site, I've picked out a few of my favourites from Whistles, Filippa K, Day Birger et Mikkelsen and Lamb to name just a few!  But should I have to choose just the one, it would be this Allium B Alexa bead collar dress reduced from £135.00 to £79.00.  A simple navy with a brown contrasting Peter Pan beaded collar means that it is simple yet elegant.  It can be worn for day or night, work or casual - just team with tights and ankle boots for an up-to-date look that works for any occasion!  Contrasting accessories would also look fab with this outfit.

Best of the Sales: Modcloth

There's 50% off sale items on the US site Modcloth right now, so a perfect time to take advantage of stocking up on some fab retro and vintage clothing, footwear and accessories from America!  I've picked out six of my faves on the new site - as ever, it's so hard to choose just one when the sales are so amazing!  However, I find you can't really go wrong with a Bernie Dexter dress, so how about this 'France and Frolic' one?  A beautiful pastel blue dress with a French flavour, classic and fitted to cinch and flatter the wait and bust.  It's reduced from $155.99 to $77.99 (so about £47) - trés jolie et chic.

Keep enjoying the sales and I'll keep looking out for the best quality, gorgeous bargains!

Somerset by Alice Temperley Tipped Shirt Dress from John Lewis

Despite the fact that Christmas is not all that far away, there are still plenty of offers to be found.  John Lewis currently has quite a few gorgeous women's fashion items on sale and I love this Somerset by Alice Temperley shirt dress, which is half its original price.  It's 100% silk, so will feel luscious and luxurious.  I love the delicate, contrasting Peter Pan collar flowing into the same coloured lace placket, giving it a vintage feel.  It's perfect for work or a daytime formal lunch, but at the sale price it's worth wearing as much as possible!  It's still available in sizes 6 to 18 (except 10) and is £80.

And for an extra special treat, I give you the John Lewis Christmas advert!  So sweet and touching, as ever.

Louche Hender Fluffy Jumper from Joy the Store

As ever, there are loads of incredibly gorgeous items for Autumn and Winter from Joy the Store.  Knitwear is always a good bet for this time of year, and they have several pretty and warm fluffy jumpers to choose from.

I've picked this Hender pastel pink, cable-knit jumper as my favourite at the moment.  I think the colour is lovely and will brighten up a dull Autumn's day.  A cable-knit pattern will never go out of style and the relaxed yet slim-fit means that it will look great when layered over pretty much any top.  It can be worn with jeans, a scarf and boots for classic Autumn style or dressed up a bit with a skirt and some flat shoes.

This jumper's £42 in sizes 8 to 16, but Joy have an offer at the moment where customers get a free cardigan with spends over £75 or new customers can get 10% off first orders when they sign up to the newsletter.

Jaeger Metallic Stripe Breton Jumper from John Lewis

A cute Breton striped shirt or jumper is a classic.  However, I do find that the standard black and white stripe is a bit clichéd and looks a bit like it ought to be paired with a beret and a necklace of onions.  So it's often good to go for something a little different, in varying colours, like this Jaeger jumper available through John Lewis's clearance offers.  I love the sparkly, metallic stripes which are quirky and attractive - but not too obtrusive.  I'd wear it with skinny jeans, a scarf and flat pumps for a chic, Parisian look (without any onions or berets!) but it could be smartened up with a blouse underneath and skirt.  Still available in all sizes (small to extra large), it's been reduced from £120 to £75.

Delightful Dress: Baroque Print Midi Dress from Lipsy

I know I just blogged about a fantastic body con dress the other day, but I have found another fabulous one from Lipsy.

This Lipsy Baroque print midi dress is simply stunning.  It's from their Petroleum range, designed to be slick, strong and super fierce!  The teal and purpley-brown and colour combination is really interesting and unique and really flatters the body con silhouette.  I think this brocade pattern - feminine and luxurious - is going to be on-trend for AW13.  I'd wear this dress for an evening out, with fabulous heels and minimal - but edgy - accessories.  It's £48, but until 15th September, customers can benefit from £20 off £100 spends at Lipsy using a discount voucher code, so add this and a couple more items, save and look amazing!

Delightful Dress: Plaid Pinafore Dresses from Urban Outfitters

Pinafore dresses have been making a bit of a comeback lately.  However, I've steered a bit clear of them as I do worry they look a bit schoolgirl if they are the wrong colour, pattern or styled too young.  The key to looking like a grown up when wearing this, I think, is to layer it with some mature pieces, such as a crisp blouse or some funky accessories and avoid school uniform grey!  Another trend emerging for AW13 is a tartan or plaid pattern and so I have found a couple of lovely pinafores in such a print from Urban Outfitters - I couldn't choose between them so I'm highlighting both!

The first is this red Vintage Renewal plaid pinafore dress, which is £38 and comes in sizes medium and large.  It's got a real Sixties retro look and feel to it, and is fun and playful, without being juvenile.  I like the way they have styled it, with the long-sleeved cotton blouse and I'd team it with some dark tights and Doc Martens for autumn and winter.

The second dress is this Cooperative pinafore dress in Black Watch tartan print.  It's £52 and comes in sizes extra small to large.  Again, it could be styled as the dress above and look great!

Until the end of the month, customers can get 10% off at Urban Outfitters with the code AUGUST10 and for a limited time, delivery is just £1.

Splendid Skirt: Orla Kiely Alpine Grove Skirt from People Tree

I love People Tree, with its ethical, fair trade ethos and superb, quality products.  For over 20 years, it has partnered with Fair Trade artisans and farmers in the developing world to produce a collection of ethical and eco fashion.  It has always been a pioneer in that field so customers can feel good about purchasing from them!

There are loads of great items in their sale right now, including designers such as Orla Kiely.  I'm really impressed with the sale price of these Alpine Grove cotton midi skirts - they have been reduced from £70 to £28 - a real bargain!  Pair with a simple white t-shirt, cardi and flat sandals for a perfect, chic summer look.  I can't decide whether I prefer the blue or coral - but at that price, I'm tempted by both!

Splendid Skirt: Denim Skirt from M&Co

I've been searching for a decent denim skirt for a while now - one that's a classic, stylish shape, an indigo colour, a modest length and a good price.  A super skirt like this will work for most daytime occasions, paired with a blouse for a smart/casual look or a simple vest top for a laid-back, easy style. It can be worn with any shoes also - pumps, heels, wedges - but I'm planning on wearing it with a simple t-shirt and my Converse!

I found a lovely one at Boden, but it's pretty much out of stock and is fairly expensive for what you get, even with a 10% discount code.  So I was really pleased to find a similar one at M&Co.  It's a pencil skirt but there is enough give in the fabric and a slight flare to ensure a good, not too tight, stylish fit.  The colour is a perfect indigo blue and the high waist keeps everything in nicely!  It's £24 and comes in sizes 8 to 22.

Until 14th August, new customers can get 20% off at M&Co with the code FIRST20 (making it just £19.20); alternatively, after that, there's 10% off (making it £21.60) for a while for new customers with the code FIRST10.  Delivery is just £1.  So all in all, this makes this skirt a real quality, good-looking bargain!

Great Jeans: Pastel Skinny Jeans from A|Wear

I do believe skinny jeans are here to stay and I love the variety of colours that is currently available.  However, pastel is the hue of the season, and I've found a great selection from A|Wear in their sale.  Originally £35, they are now half price at just £17.50.  Colours available are blue (pictured below), pink, white, orange and coral (also pictured below) and they come in sizes 6 to 18, depending on colour.  The blend of cotton with elastane on these skinny jeans means they should fit perfectly and the price means one can get a few to team with a fab top and pumps!

The Look for Less: House of Fraser Sale

The House of Fraser sale is still on, with lots of lovely bargains on gorgeous designer fashion and accessories. I have put together an outfit inspired by a number of things and, just for fun, can you guess how I've been influenced to create this look?  I've based it on my favourite following factors:

• A city
• An era
• A television show
• A person

I love this look as it is classic, feminine and elegant.  The dress is voluptuous and will flatter the figure and highlight a woman's best bits, with the draped fabric concealing any bumps.  The person who I've based the look on is bold and sassy, and I think this look epitomises that.  This look would certainly work in the office for a brave woman, and then take her nicely into the evening for cocktail hour!

All items are on sale as shown below.

Pied a Terre asymmetrical cocktail dress
£89 

Juno Tote
£48.30

Jones Bootmaker Bindy Court Shoes
£45

Hobbs NW3 Clover Earrings
£8

Martine Wester Fable Pearl & Black Diamond Flower Ring
£7.50

Karen Millen Swarovski Teardrop Pendant
£30

Terrific Top: Butterfly Shell Top from Evans

Starting today until midnight tomorrow (Friday) Evans has up to 50% off everything with the discount applied at the checkout.  There are loads of fantastic items on the site, but I have chosen this pretty navy blue butterfly shell top.  It's so versatile, perfect for any occasion and will work well with jeans or a fitted skirt.  The jersey fabric will be light and airy to keep one cool, and the scooped neck and pleated front should flatter nicely.

Available in size 14 to 32 it's £24.30 with the discount.

Over the Top: Marcy Military Jacket from Phase Eight

The summer sales may be a great opportunity to stock up on items that will last the rest of the season, as well as next spring and summer, but it seems that one is still able to find some great items that will work as the weather gets colder.  I was pursuing the Phase Eight sale and came across this fabulous wool blend, navy peacoat.  The peacoat is a classic wardrobe staple and will work for most any occasion.  I like the textured fabric of this one which makes it interesting and it looks really warm!

It's half price at £49.50 and is still available in a large size.

Splendid Skirt: Rothko Striped Skirt from Great Plains

Great Plains provides modern and stylish fashion for women focusing on comfort, quality and wearability - so a brand that ticks all the boxes in my opinion!  There's clothing, jewellery and handbags and they are currently holding a end of season sale.

A pleated midi skirt is always stylish and versatile, and I love this striped one that's been reduced from £69 to just £24 in the sale.  It comes in the orange, grey and beige shown (or husky/rooster combo on the site) or royal blue, navy and grey (or veronica/aleutian combo).  It could be worn easily for work, paired with a white blouse and heeled courts or dressed down with a dark top, tights and boots.  Being pleated and a modest knee-length, it will skim the hips, and by tucking in one's top and adding a wide belt, it should be really flattering.