Full of Fabulous

Always Dotty

2012-03-07T14:43:00.000-04:00

I think most women have a favorite color. Some of us even have favorite colors for each facet of life; walls, shoes, lipstick, cars etc. (for the record mine is warm red, red, soft pink, hot pink & yet strangely I think of teal as my favorite color). So if you have a favorite color, surely you must have a favorite pattern!
On first thought you might think no not really, but think for a moment longer... are you on the chevron craze? Maybe for your sheets or throw pillows? When you open your closet are you bombarded with floral? Are you wild for animal prints or delighted by stripes?
For me it is polka dots. Always polka dots.

Even my favorite, well-passed-their-prime sunglasses are delightfully dotty!

These are some of my favorite spotted, dotted & polka'd items currently out there!

From top left corner, clockwise; eShakti, eShakti, Domino Dollhouse, Torrid, Torrid
Domino Dollhouse, ASOS curve, Evans, ASOS, eShakti

So what is your favorite pattern or color? Send me a tweet @FullofFabulous of you wearing your favorite!

Lil Somethin'

2012-03-01T08:46:00.001-04:00

Just a few lil somethin's that I'm loving this week...

Little blogger present from Pennington's!

Gorgeous new nail colours!

Fuzzy lil fur baby asleep inside my sweatshirt!

What are you loving this week?

Blush Blush

2012-02-29T16:25:00.000-04:00

Finally back to work! Exciting for some many reasons, but the only one really relevant to the blog is that I'm finally out of pj pants or sloppy tees!

I was a little short handed with the camera today but still wanted to share a bit of my outfit today in celebration of it NOT being flannel.

Top, Forever 21+

Sweet bird, Sea of Bees

Ring, Forever 21. OPI Polish 'I Think in Pink'

Jacket, Addition Elle. Brooch, handmade.

Fresh Face, moi!

So glad to be back at work, travelling around my province & enjoying the strong sunshine thru my window...

Lil Somethin'

2012-02-14T11:31:00.000-04:00

Just a few lil' somethings I'm loving.

Appropriate for Valentine's Day!

Our kind of love...

Lovin' my new sunnies!

And something from my current fav's Karmin!

Accessorize!

2012-02-13T13:05:00.000-04:00

One of the biggest reasons you haven't seen many outfit posts from me lately is that I've been working from home. My job has a few serious down periods throughout the year, January/February being one of them. During those slow times I try to focus my energies on my creative endeavors; painting, crafting & jewelry making.
I have mentioned before that I have a line of jewelry called Darling Dilemma & since the only time I have gotten out of comfy clothes for style this last week was to snap some photos of my finished pieces I thought I might share some of those pictures with you instead of an OOTD post.

Blouse from Torrid, Necklace by Darling Dilemma

This necklace is a fun statement piece & could be worn with different styles. When I make jewelry I always go with my instinct & preferences. I love pieces that can be worn everyday or dressed up in my own collection so I try to make them that way as well.

Tunic dress by Old Navy

Yellowing by Darling Dilemma

Jewelry & accessories in general are an aspect of fashion that I can't get enough of. Your size & shape have no relevance to a great pair of sunglasses (of which I always own about a dozen pairs!) or dangling earrings. In fact, bigger is better when it comes to sunglasses & necklaces as far as I'm concerned!

Sweet Purple by Darling Dilemma

The thing about great accessories is that a few new fabulous pieces can change your whole wardrobe, make it all seem fresh again! One of my favorite things is finding a fantastic new statement piece that works with an unworn or underused dress or blouse, making it a sudden new favorite.

Clearly I have an addiction to necklaces, sunglasses.. bags.. accessories!
What is your favorite accessory?

Love Me Tender

2012-02-02T09:03:00.000-04:00

Okay so I've pretty much stuck to G-rated outfit posts on this blog (& no I'm not veering off that path!!) but with Valentine's Day coming & lots of long cold nights ahead of us still I thought I would share some amazing & sexy online finds!
I have heard at least once from every plus sized beautiful friend I have that they can't find anything sexy that fits. It is hard to find something that makes us feel comfortable enough to be confident and a lot of that comes from a proper fit. While buying online can open a lot of new doors it is still daunting because we can't try the items on. My suggestion is read the sizing chart carefully, measure yourself, check the return policy & then MAKE THE LEAP! Each time I try a new online shop I get a bit anxious but when the fantastic items arrive, fit & make me feel fabulous I know it was worth it.

This fall I purchased some amazing pieces from a City Chic sale (that I still haven't managed to photograph on the blog even though they are in heavy rotation?!?!) that I was super impressed with. Since I was so pleased with the quality, shipping & fit I can't help but list a few of their lingerie pieces at the top of my Valentine's Must-Have list.

The Coco Printed set is dreamy to me. I can not get enough of polka dot anything so combine them with a fit that was clearly designed for a plus sized frame & throw in a hint of retro vibe... I'm hooked!

The Coco Dot suspender skirt is so cute, flattering & ultra sexy that it's guaranteed to make your valentine do a double take, any night of the year!!
Also, I just want to take a second & say - how awesome is this model?? Gorgeous, plus sized, curvy & of a relatable age. Kudos to City Chic!!

Ok back to sexy things - two things I love are pink and animal print, these selections from Hot Plus Size Lingerie have got both!

Pink Leopard Print Babydoll

Flirty Bra Set

Embroidered Bustier

The downfall of Hot Plus Size Lingerie is that they currently only ship within the US, plus side is that shipping is only $7.95 & their prices are great!

Torrid has frequently be mentioned in past posts. It is easy to shop, sizing makes sense & they ship to Canada (although full disclosure - they overcharge for CDN shipping!). I'm a fan of Torrid's trendy & affordable pieces but have yet to purchase any of their lingerie. Strange since they have such fun & colourful choices!! The current selection of corsets have caught my eye...

Ruffle Corset

Leopard Print Corset

Teal with Lace corset

And guess what?? As I wrote this I received an email from Torrid announcing their semi annual lingerie sale! All lingerie is now only $24.99!!! I might take a blogging break to snatch up a few things...

Finally I want to share some pieces from a small but wonderful site called Domino Dollhouse. The pieces carried are always unique & possibly not everyone's taste but I love owner Tracey Broxterman's choices & the latest lingerie is no exception!

Classique Underbust
Polka Dot Bra & Panty set

Vintage Style Garter Panty
& Bra

Make sure to check out the Dominio Dollhouse site for new fashions & always fantastic photos!

So that, my friends, brings us to the end of my personal Valentine favorites this year. Don't be a shy violet when there are so many amazing pieces to choose from... instead be Full of Fabulous!!

Wintergram

2012-02-01T10:34:00.000-04:00

Comfort foods (& booze in coffee).

Winter in Canada is a long and drawn out experience. One often finds themselves in long periods of solitude without even consciously choosing to be. We seeks out warmth, comforts & light.

Creature comforts

I love reviewing & then sharing my photos monthly, it is a good way to reflect on passing time.

Stay Fabulous throughout February!

xo

Moody Monday OOTD

2012-01-30T17:18:00.000-04:00

Been so long since I did an outfit post that I barely remember where to start!
Canadian weather is unpredictable & spiteful at best. Combine that with a post Christmas funk & you get a moody blogger.

Sometimes the best cure for the blues is a splash of lipstick, a delicious latte made by your favorite barista in the world & a great date.

Our local coffee house & a Piece O'Cake cupcake!

I found this maxi skirt (fashioned as a dress today) at Winner's in late summer but was iffy about it. When mid fall came & the price was $7 I decided to splurge & see what I could make of it. My favorite solution...

Apparently cold weather makes me scowl?
I hate winter.

Forever 21 accesories

Paired up with my brand new Rieker winter boots, picked up at Boutique Zekara during their winter blow out sale with my saved up gift certificate I am finally prepared for the icy streets/sidewalks/parking lots of Saint John. For too long I've been teetering over ice, used to Ontario winters. The ice & often frigid winds in my new home is something I finally feel ready for (as we close in on February!!).

You might remember these boots made an appearance on the runway with me. I fell for them that night & have been dreaming of them since. So glad these wool lined beauties are now mine!

Guess I'm back on the blogger bandwagon now!

Stay Fabulous!

Festive OOTD

2011-12-18T11:15:00.000-04:00

I'm a social media junkie.

Seriously.
I have a personal facebook account with 3 other pages (including Full of Fabulous & Darling Dilemma if you are so inclined to peek...), 3 twitter accounts, 2 blogs, a Google+, an etsy shop & tumblr.

JUNKIE!

But it pays off.... moving to 2 new cities in the last couple years was tough & without social media I wouldn't have met all the fabulous and fantastic people I have! The bloggers, my crafting circle, the derby girls & The Ladies of Twitter (as we have taken to call ourselves).

These ladies are social junkies too, and they understand why I check my phone during coffee, while shopping or during dinner with my husband. In fact it was probably one of them who tweeted me.
As a group we try to meet 'in real life' on occasions. As many of us gather as are available for coffee dates, potential book club meetings, dinners or lunches. And this weekend was our official 'Ladies of Twitter Christmas Luncheon' at the lovely Bourbon Quarter/Magnolia Cafe uptown.

I decided to get a little festive...

Yes, I am still wearing flats, bare feet... a week before Christmas!

Totally colour blocked & made myself look elf like.

Jeggings; Forever 21+, Tunic; Old Navy, Belt; Torrid

Made the earrings myself.

Hobbes wanted a piece of the action

Thank you ladies for a lovely lunch! I can't wait until our first 2012 outing...

Baby It's Cold Outside

2011-12-17T11:50:00.000-04:00

On the East Coast we have been experiencing some seriously mild winter weather. In fact, less than two weeks until Christmas & we have no snow on the ground!

Getting in the Christmas spirit has been a struggle this year, with long work days, no snow & the decision to not put up a tree (we will be flying home to spend Christmas with my family so it seems unnecessary & frankly a bad idea with two cats in the house...). I decided that a wreath would be an out-of-reach & appropriate amount of Christmasness for our new home & ventured out in the chilly but non snowy day.

It has taken me a long, long, LONG time to find a winter jacket I would even consider buying. So many plus size jackets are unappealing, ill fitted, poorly lined or all three. I've looked every year, settling on WalMart substitutes to get me through but decided it was time to really hunt one down! LL Bean had a few possibilities but my mother swears their return policy is the worst & suggested Eddie Bauer instead. I was very impressed with their selection of winter coats, varying in warmth & length.

Being 6 feet tall most waist length coats don't work for me, especially when we are talking about a winter coat. I can't stand having a coat ride up, even a little, leaving my back exposed to cold winter winds!! I chose the Slope Side down jacket specifically for it's warmth, length & colour.

Now I ordered mine last year in eggplant which seems to have been replaced now with a new olive colour - another favorite colour of mine!! It is also available in a grey & cream.

Eddie Bauer, Slope Side $199

My hat is a fabulous Etsy find that I also own in purple, from TangledArts. Super soft, great fit & awesome colours. My mitts are recycled sweater mittens from Eco Fab Mama a local business/online shop that supports the talents of many New Brunswick crafters.

And the idea that started the day... the wreath! I picked my wreath up at the local Pumpkin Patch, a beautiful double wreath that I decorated myself.

Now my life has a little more Christmas in it & I'm feeling a little more in the spirit!

In that spirit I announce the winner's of my most recent giveaway from eShakti!
Melissa from Sigh Gush Gasp & Anita from Thick Threads
are BOTH winner's of $20 gift certificates from eShakti!!! Check your email's today ladies & I hope to see outfit posts with your winnings in the future...

Stay Fabulous
Em
xo

300 Friends & A Whole Lotta Love... eShakti Giveaway

2011-12-09T19:13:00.002-04:00

Sometime this past week, in the midst of holiday stress & work chaos my 300th twitter friend found me! With over 300 followers now all I can say is WOW!!

Seriously. Wow.

The fully fabulous folks at eShakti thought it was fantastic too & are helping me celebrate by offering
gift certificates to 2 of my lucky followers/readers!

eShakti offers a full size range from 0 to 26 - how many company's can boast that? As a company who understands that standard measurements don't flatter every size & don't work with every shape, eShakti let's you customize your pieces by length, bust, sleeve style.. even down to your specific measurements AND they will customize for FREE on your first order (starting at only $7.50 after that!)!!

For a chance to win a $20 gift certificate please check out the eshakti website. Leave a comment on their facebook page letting them know Full of Fabulous sent you & which item you want most!

For extra ballots (leave a comment for each):

follow Full of Fabulous on twitter & tweet about this giveaway
follow Full of Fabulous blog via bloglovin' or google friend connect (links on right)

Contest closes in 1 week on December 16th at 8pm Atlantic Time & is open to all North American readers. The 2 winners will be drawn & announced December 17th.

Been an awful good girl...

2011-12-06T06:24:00.003-04:00

As promised here is my wish list of accessories, shoes & bags for this holiday/winter!

Available in grey as well!

I wore these beauties for the recent fashion show put on by Boutique Zekara & haven't stopped thinking of them since. They are tall, lined & even though they aren't a wide calf fit, they fit me perfectly.

While searching thru knits on ASOS for a friend I stumbled onto this beauties & since they are currently on sale, I'm thinking they would make a perfect gift to myself.

Of course if someone beats me to it, I wouldn't be horribly disappointed!
Alright so some other fabulous finds that I've got listed as high priority for this winter are...

A new Fossil bag from Manchester Shoe Salon!

OPI Muppet collection available at Salon's like Element5 Spa in Market Square, Uptown Saint John!
Or maybe something gorgeous & sexy from the amazing plus size, online lingerie store, Hips & Curves from my sweetie...

Morgana Long Line Cotton Steel Boned Corset $160

And of course no holiday, or season even, is complete without plenty of fun new accessories!

Fun, bright fabric necklace from LaurenceCollection $35

Bracelet from DarkRide $42

Earrings from talented local jeweler Wild Woman Jewelry! $28

Cherry necklace from itsastitch $27

So now that you've seen what's on MY wish list... how about you share what is on yours??

Santa Baby...

2011-12-04T06:34:00.001-04:00

Let's just ignore the elephant in the room... the one that hasn't written a post in awhile cuz she was moving & being overworked? K, thanks!

So some how fall whizzed by & we are in December already! Once the 1st rolls in I find myself consumed with decorations, to-do lists & shopping. Although frankly, when am I not thinking of shopping??

instagram'd beauty

Since it is that time of year when I save all my pennies for my adorable GingerKid & handsome hubby I thought I would put together a Christmas wish list of my own. There are far too many beautiful winter items I've been dreaming of & if my husband or mother just happen to read this post (which they assure me they do actually read the blog...) & find some gift giving ideas, so be it!

At the top of my list is this amazing wool dress, or tunic from eshakti! I adore everything about it - colour, cut, pockets, and check out that collar!! I envision feeling toasty warm in the wool, with leggings, tights or even some skinny jeans underneath.

Polka Dot pencil skirt $55, Metallic Knit shift dress $61, Chino Pants $41

These lovely winter selections are all from the ASOS Curve line. Maybe I've got a thing for red but their particular shade of red this season, almost a cranberry, is my favorite!!
I want to make all these beautiful pieces mine & the fact that their shipping & returns are free makes shopping with ASOS an awesome choice.

The Peggy Dress, $195

Of course I can't let the chance pass by to mention the Cherry Velvet dress I modelled at a local fashion show recently. Local shoppers can find this Canadian line at Boutique Zekara but the dresses are also available online.
* Honey, I'm sure any one of our friend's would gladly show you the way there.. & I'm sure Karen or Donna would even show you to the dress - just sayin' *

Up next my wish list of accessories!

Novembegram

2011-12-03T11:53:00.000-04:00

road travels, chevron tights, runway debut
runway look, pennington's treats, sparkle
a friday night, glammed up, bridge work

mermaid, raybans, new nail colour
made up, adorbs, port
owly, fair trade, birthday girl

2011-11-14T10:16:00.000-04:00

Recently I wrote a post about bravery & my pursuit of it. When Katie from Boutique Zekara called me recently & asked if I would be a model in their upcoming fashion show I quickly said yes without hesitation, feeling brave.
I felt less brave the night of though. Silly girl I am, as I now look back at the night & the photos taken by local photographer Beaver Smith of bigdayfoto & realize my age & size (& of course hair) made me a fun addition to the runway. I may not have felt brave in the moment... but I feel pride after the fact & that is an accomplishment as well.

You might recognize this dress as the one I almost bought for my brother's wedding in September. It is from Cherry Velvet. Super cute!

In fact all these pieces are from Cherry Velvet! This is one of their new styles & I can't lie... it wanted to come with me!! It is styled up a bit here but I had leggings under it at one point & it would be great for casual too. It might have walked out ON me if it wasn't pretty much sold right off my back! Boutique Zekara has other styles, fabrics & colours though for those of you who just fell in love with it.

Of course this holiday dress from Cherry Velvet was the show stopper! There were actual oooh's and some aaahhh's as I walked down in this gorgeous number! This dress is a brocade & I felt like I was glowing in it when it was combined with my hair. My husband is almost insisting I buy this one...

So I moved outside my comfort zone, walked the red carpet & in the end feel braver for it... Success!

And finally, for those of you who entered my Birthday Giveaway with Manchester Shoe Salon.... the winner is Julia Hurst! Coincidentally Julia also has a blog, Fortunate Fool so I can't wait to see her post what she purchases with her $50 gift certificate!

Thank you again to the wonderful Natalie from Manchester Shoe Salon... I'm heading uptown today to purchase my big new bag that I've had on layaway, as a birthday gift to myself!

Easy Breezy

2011-11-09T08:00:00.001-04:00

Back in St. Andrews I ventured down to the main road, Water Street, feeling a little brave since the tourists are all gone for the season. I had a certain store front in mind for some photos...

One of my favorite local boutiques, PGal's Closet has a summer time location in St.Andrews & it's store front perfectly matched today's outfit!

Addition Elle chevron tights, shoes from Payless

This was my first time wearing my new Forever 21+ skirt & I wasn't entirely prepared for it's light weight meeting up with the fall breezes!

The 'polite' breezy shot... lol

My birthday is just 2 days away, which means there are only 2 days left to enter my Birthday Giveaway - have you entered yet?
Also means I should pick out something to wear!!

Fall Fabulous, Forever 21 OOTD

2011-11-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

Blouse; Reitmans. Vest; Torrid. Jeggings & shoes; Forever 21

This week I've spent more time driving to work than actually working so I needed outfits that would come out still looking good after being seatbelted in. Luckily my Forever 21 order arrived just in time!

These shots are from a favorite New Brunswick town, St. Andrews. In the summer it is bustling with tourists, locals & those of us locals on day trips. Come autumn though the town becomes quiet again, and I might just like it even more...

Love my fabulous leopard flats!!

The streets are quiet & traffic moves by slow & unhurried. The boardwalk & shops uncrowded & I can see everything I want to see...

And of course outfit photos can be taken without strange looks, which is always a bonus.

Hair tip? When in the wind, go for the 'messy' look...

These Forever 21+ jeggings are fabulous! So fabulous (at $13.50!!!!) that I might have bought 4 pairs.... expect plenty of jegging sightings in the blog future.

Since I love my province & this little town, I thought I would leave you this; Rick Mercer's recent visit here to whale watch!

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In case you missed Friday's post, I am having my first giveaway in honor of my Birthday! Make sure to enter before the 11th for your chance to win!

Boutique Talk & Birthday Giveaway

2011-11-04T22:29:00.000-03:00

So many boots they couldn't all fit into one post!

This time Monique takes centre stage in these Rieker Booties & Fossil bag. She can correct me if I'm wrong but I think this was Monique's favorite combination. I heard her exclaim more than once 'I just LOVE the key!!' about this cool Fossil bag & that red zipper detail had us both swooning.

Rieker Kadie bootie $140 & Red Leather Fossil Purse $180

Truth be told, I've eyed the Fossil 'key' bag up more than once in tan, purple & mustard! The fact that there are so many colours to chose from might be the reason I don't have one yet... choices, choices...

This next look is La Canadienne's Red Patent Leather (Waterproof) “Tula” bootie. Take note people... I'm wearing a heel! I seemed to have discovered that I actually can walk in a small heel or wedge, thanks to Natalie's advice. I haven't worn even a small heel in about 15 years since I had an accident, breaking my ankle. The weakness in my ankle has meant no heels (and no derby with Monique... yes another awesome derby girl!!!). These patent red leather boots were too good not to try on just for a photo though...

La Canadienne Red Patent Leather (Waterproof) “Tula” $265
Cabrelli Red Cheetah Clutch $55

Turns out, if the bootie (or boot) comes up high enough it is just the support my ankle needs to let me walk with a bit of heel! Just the sheer glee of walking in these fabulous Victorian inspired booties almost had them walking right out the door with me...

Rieker “Thelma” $155
Fossil Grey Leather Purse $200

So for our final look of the day, Monique tried the Rieker "Thelma" bootie (with another one of those fantastic Fossil bags... seriously Mon, just buy one!!) How awesome does she look, staring out that window (dreaming of a place where it wasn't snowing I'm going to assume)?
Thank you Monique for being such a good sport, trying on all these beautiful boots & trudging out on our first snowfall.

And now for the most exciting part, more exciting than all these fabulous boots to look at.....
Manchester Shoe Salon is giving all of my local readers a chance to win a $50 gift certificate in celebration of my birthday!!

To enter & win you must;

be local (enough to travel to SJ & collect your prize)
'like' Manchester Shoe Salon on facebook & leave a comment on their wall saying that I sent you

For an extra entry you can;

'like' Full of Fabulous on facebook
tweet about the contest (make sure to link to the blog & include @FullOfFabulous so I can find your entry)

The contest closes on my birthday, November 11th, at 11pm AST, 2011 (yep...11-11-11!) & the winner will be announced that weekend!

Good luck & stay fabulous....

Boutique Talk - Manchester Shoes

2011-11-03T18:01:00.000-03:00

Can you tell it was a pay week? All of my posts are shopping related!
Sunday I went uptown (yes in Saint John we have an 'uptown' but no downtown...deal with it) with my friend Monique to visit my friend Natalie at Manchester Shoe Salon in Market Square.
Natalie is in most women's dream; living amongst the shoes.

Now I know from past posts that not all women have the shoe bug but a majority of my reader's seem to & most of the plus sized women I know do. My theory on it is this - shoes, bags, scarves, jewelry, & accessories in general are a 'size doesn't matter' purchase. It makes us bigger girls feel like the 'rest' of consumers. You can wear a size 22 dress and still be the perfect size 6 or 7 shoe with endless possibilities before you. You can fit into an XL blouse in a handful of shops but you have bags & clutches in every conceivable colour.
I bet I'm describing at least a few of you...

There is a particular issue that can be difficult for larger sizes or larger legs & that is boots. So many women struggle in the store with zipping up that perfect knee high boot. It is heartbreaking to fall for a boot, find it in your size but as you slide your foot in & begin to zip up the back or side, realize that the zipper only makes it halfway up.You will mostly be out of luck in mall shoe stores & big box retailers at that point but shoe shops like Manchester Shoes have so much more to offer!
Monique & I were like giddy girl's as Natalie laid out a huge selection of wide calf boots & adorable booties (fashion & waterproof) & we ooooo'd & aaaahh'd over their bags, scarves & clutches.
The three of us put together several pieces to highlight just a few things you can find at Manchester Shoes. Take a look...

Blondo Tall Black Riding Boot (Waterproof & Wide Shaft) “Viviane” $225

Totally waterproof, wide shaft & made in Canada... not sure a boot gets much better than this Blondo Tall Riding boot! Monique thought they had a cool rocker look to them & I can't say I disagree.
I've honestly never had a boot this high on & although I've known there were wide calf boots, I hadn't come across them til Manchester Shoes.

Really liking the look of my lace tights with the boots. Rocker chic?

Next we got Monique into some Remonte Dorndorf booties!

Zipper Zig Zag purse $70

This is the same designer as my recent bootie purchase paired with a Joanel 'Zipper Zig Zag' purse. Monique is like me, caught up in the details, so she loved the zippers on the bag & folds of the boots. Booties like these are a fabulous alternative to a full sized boot if you are worried about wide calves or want something with the fashion of a boot but without the bulk.

Remonte Dorndorf Tan Slouch Bootie “Federica” $170

Afterwards I tried on this 'brown' pair of Aerosoles boots which really have an almost olive colour to them, which is gorgeous. These boots have a zippered calf extension which you can adjust as needed to expand the boot AND.... these gorgeous boots are only $140!!

Aerosoles Tall Brown/Olive (Wide Shaft Extension Zipper) “Mezzotint” $140

I couldn't pass up the chance to pair this with one of the many Fossil bags in the store. This canvas one looks great with the colouring & texture of the boots.

Fossil Brown/Olive Canvas Purse $105

Stay tuned for my second post featuring MORE fabulous finds from Manchester and a very special birthday giveaway....

(If you want to stay a step ahead of the game.. .make sure you like Manchester Shoe Salon & Full of Fabulous on facebook *hint hint* )

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T18:11:00.000-03:00

Happy Halloween Friends!

I'm not exactly Halloween ready this year as we have decided to move!

(yep, we get the keys tomorrow & only decided on Saturday...)

Instead of a costume post I remembered this great hair day with one of my favorite accessories.

The hair piece was made by the gorgeous Christina of I Do Cake Toppers & seems to be in the spirit of the season...

Fabulous Chic! City Chic Shopping Cart

2011-10-30T09:44:00.000-03:00

On Friday, online plus size fashion store, City Chic had a flash sale of 60% off everything!

Everything.

I'm relatively new to the whole online shopping thing when it comes to clothes, so each time I do order I like to try a new site. 60% off sounded like the perfect excuse to make City Chic my next stop! Oh and, (pay attention here, fellow Canadians) one of the best things about this site is that they actually ship to Canada for free! I seriously cannot figure out why more & bigger clothing websites haven't managed this yet. I can often buy from UK based ASOS for zero shipping fees but somehow Torrid wants to charge me more that $30+ to cross the Canadian border...

So 60% off, plus free shipping AND... a coupon code worth an EXTRA 20% off led to the following delicious purchases...

Frill Hem Jacket with Belt

Love the cut of this piece! Puffy sleeves, funky belt and all on sale for only $39.20, regularly $98!
Can't wait to wear it with skinny jeans for shopping & form fitting skirts on date night.

Chiffon Flocked Spot Top

I think my love of polka dots is obvious by now, so this top should come as no surprise. At the regular $54 I would probably never consider this piece but for $21.60 I found it irresistible!

Velvet Leopard Print Jacket

I saved the best for last... for only $37.60 I couldn't pass up this beautifully tailored, velvet, leopard print jacket. Matching it up with a LBD, pencil skirt, jeans... even my pajamas! I want to wear this all the time, everywhere.
Looking for me? I'll be the one with the scarlet hair in leopard print.

Anyone else score some great deals from City Chic's sale?

Shopping Cart - The Etsy Experience

2011-10-28T08:07:00.001-03:00

About a year & a half ago I opened my etsy shop, Darling Dilemma, selling my one of a kind beaded jewelry. It has fed my bead addiction nicely and been quite successful as well as fun! I have to admit though, one of my favorite things about having the shop is watching my paypal account balance grow & know that on some quiet Sunday evening an Etsy shopping spree will spontaneously occur. I will fill my cart with long ogled treasures, scout out new finds & before I know it dwindle that account back down to zero.
It gives me something to strive for!

So in case you haven't figured it out, this Shopping Cart is featuring some of my current favorite Etsy finds...

Magpie Flower Necklace from NestPrettyThings

One of my favorite shops to browse is Nest Pretty Things. The colour palettes & designs are sweet & lovely. This piece is my current absolute fav!

Handcrafted Wooden Sunglasses by tumbleweedsoddities

These wooden sunglasses from Tumbleweed's Oddities have got to be the coolest thing I've stumbled onto lately & as a woodworker's daughter, I find them irresistible (in other words, I might be blowing my budget on them)!

Calliope Double Wrap bracelet by Twillypop

This is a colour combination that is just screaming to me this fall!! I'm always amazed at how simple design appeals to me, time & time again....Twillypop nails it!

Indigo Star Earrings by missficklemedia

Tiny, handmade stamped brass star earrings for only $12? Yes please! Miss Fickle makes some of the nicest materials, tutorials & a few select pieces. I've been looking for a set of tiny studs & adore these.

Rock the Casbah set by bullfinchbarbury

The textures in these enamel/mixed material bangles blow my mind but the colours are what draw me in every time!

Petticoat by Miss Brache

And lastly, the petticoat...
I think it needs to be a mandatory purchase for my wardrobe. In fact, don't even bother checking this one out because I'm off to fill my shopping cart now!

October vs. Em

2011-10-26T20:20:00.001-03:00

Last night, after a particularly brutal day, I told my husband that I just couldn't wait for October to be over with. He looked at me puzzled and asked, why? I sat there staring at him in disbelief for a moment before shooting out, 'are you serious??'
My grandfather is in the hospital & grandmother is injured but home & the distance between my hometown & current home seems vast right now. I miss all my family & wish I could be home during this tough time. After struggling with the emotions of it all last week I set out of town yesterday for work, get an hour away to receive a phone call that my son is having trouble breathing at school! Crazed mad dash home down the highway, husband leaving work.. ambulance being called!!! Punchline is, he is fine & has a cold. The unfunny part is, of course, the panic & stress these events put on this mama!

So I'm staring with disbelief at my husband & he says...'you went to new Brunswick's first fashion week as a blogger, you got yourself new boots, your hair is awesome, we've had tons of fun with friends, we got a kid free weekend & you won 6 cupcakes! .....so how is October NOT awesome? You had a bad couple days babe.' and with a kiss on my forehead, he left the room.
Man I married a smart one!

So here is a look back at my month in Instagrams...

So what do you think of the new blog design?

Full of... Courage?

2011-10-17T16:41:00.000-03:00

Lately I've been wondering - how much is enough?

How much confidence is enough? Do I just need a little more... or a lot?
There are body acceptance movements, of varying types that I have been exploring mostly as a voyeur thus far.

Blogger & fashionista, Jessica Kane recently had a 'full body shot' campaign, accompanied by a contest to liberate us bigger gals to take a full body photograph of ourselves. A daunting feat for any self conscious woman, so an interesting concept to tackle with plus sized readers. The response was fantastic from both women & retailers with Jessica receiving 1100 entries. She will be drawing the winner's today.
I love Jessica's blog & have been thinking about this idea of empowering someone to love themselves & physically SHOW the world all there is to love. Writing a plus size fashion/lifestyle blog has forced me in front of a camera and instead of just the (as my husband calls them) 'myspace portraits' I used to take & use as profile pictures I have to think of myself in a more 4x6 format... full body, outfit pictures.

A typical Emma portrait from back in the MySpace days...

Moving from close up to 'wide format' (ok that pun was totally intentional) takes guts.. bravery... courage! So I must have some, right??

Bah!! Wide Lens!!

But about 10 seconds after a blog post goes up, the self doubt kicks in. So clearly, not THAT brave.
Sometimes the posts don't even go live because once I see the photos on the screen I think 'now THAT was a bad outfit decision'! So clearly, not that much courage.

Another body acceptance movement I stumbled on was, funnily enough (& not at all a coincidence given my choice of wording) on tumblr*. There are tons of accounts just there to promote beauty of one kind or another... be it very specific, (fuckyeahchubbyfashion or tattooed & chubby ) or just open to positivity (lovethechub or Curvy is the new black ).
I really dig the idea that girls can just go & post a picture of themselves from when they felt fabulous! In fact both my friend Vanessa & I have done it!

Hot Vanessa-ness

Not only is it accessible & easy to have a 'feel good' moment, but your fellow tumblrs are right there, supporting you through it & cheering you on (in the form of reblogs & likes... tumblr lingo but sweet all the same).

This isn't a post with any resolution, or even a glaring insight. It is strictly a post of me rambling about something that has been on my mind a lot lately, something I am trying to examine about myself. When do you know that you have enough courage? How do you test bravery?

I will keep you up to date if there are any further developments or acts of bavery.

Stay fabulous....

Em

*I should warn you right now that not all of tumblr is safe for work, familiy viewing etc. Anyone can post images & thoughts about whatever they would like. Please use your own discreation.

Bloggerfull

2011-10-13T10:23:00.042-03:00

Last night I attended a local blogger meet up at the shoe heaven known as Urban Shoe Myth. It was great to talk about our blogs, recap recent fashion events & enjoy some munchies from one of our favorite restaurants, Saint John Ale House.
Of course the shoes were distracting...

Before we dug our heels into deep discussion & deliciousness bloggers Kate, Chelsea & I took the opportunity to hit the streets for some outfit shots.

Chelsea being photographed by Kate, while Candice instagrams the moment & I catch it all... that's how we bloggers roll!

Heels & shiny tights... nothing slows a blogger down

The great thing about when bloggers meet is we don't pass up the opportunity to have someone else take our photos & make us look less like a dork in a public place with a tripod. Thank you Kate for playing photographer for me!

I came pretty much straight from work so wasn't overly glam in my Reitman's denim & leggings but I love my new polka dot top from Old Navy. I kept warm with my black George cardigan & necklace from Laura.

I jumped at the chance to take my new Remonte Dorndorf booties from Manchester Shoes out for a spin! Oh how happy they make me!! If you saw my previous post about my sad lack of footwear, you might understand why.

Hello pouf! Hair experiments gone right!

This vintage bracelet was a gift from my aunt when I was in high school. I adore it.
OPI nails in Malaysian Mist

Strike a pose...

Boutique Talk - PGal's Closet

2011-10-10T21:32:00.004-03:00

Last week I took a short drive to the nearby town of Rothesay to visit the lovely ladies of PGal'sCloset, Baye & Patricia.

There was a better picture of me with them but they are too smiley & gorgeous here, so they win!

This mother/daughter duo are known for their kind, sweet nature, beautiful looks & fabulous shop, PGal's (which is accompanied by Country Treasures the home decor side). You might remember Baye as a guest blogger while I was on vacation in September. She told us all a bit about the Sympli line they carry at PGal's and after the blog post I figured I should check the line out for myself...

I wasn't 100% sold on Sympli before heading out to visit the ladies. Currently the line is sizes 2 to18 & I wear a 20, sometimes even a 22 so I was concerned nothing would fit me properly. Patricia tells me that Simpli will be coming out with a plus sized line late this fall & though I am excited to see it, I needn't have worried... just as Baye told me.

Firstly, whether you are interested in the Sympli line or not it is always worth a visit to PGal's. The accessories, beauty products & home decor are always fully fabulous & the attention you get from all the staff is top notch. It is another beautiful example of why I am SOLD on Boutique shopping.

Some of the lovely & cute items at PGal's! I adore this lip gloss!

Baye & Patricia played dress up with me for about an hour, trying different combinations of pieces from the collection & jewelry.

Chakra Tunic with Oliva leggings, Infinity jewelry scarf

The pieces are definitely forgiving, even to my size 20 body- feeling as comfortable as pajamas or yoga pants! A few selections didn't quite fit my chest & not everything suited my personal style but most of the pieces were flattering.

Timeless tunic & the infinity frill scarf (LOVED this scarf.. I may have to come back for it ladies!!)

It is awesome how the collection is styled to layer, mix & match or even be worn with your own favorite pieces in your wardrobe.

Aria tunic with Culture cover, with my favorite Forever 21+ jeans & jewelry from PGal's
This outfit is probably my favorite look that I tried on, although the colour is maybe not the right one for me.

PGal's keep a selection of pieces that work together in stock in a variety of sizes but you can also custom order your pieces, mix & match! The Sympli line comes in a HUGE assortment of colours & takes about 6-8 weeks as each piece is made to order (all by women, Canadian women!!!).

The lovely Baye, showing of the huge assortment (36) of colours to choose from!

You can be sure that when the plus size line is out I will be back out for another visit with the PGal's to let you all know about it...although truth be told, I probably won't be able to stay away that long.

New Brunswick Fashion Week - Overview

2011-10-08T18:38:00.000-03:00

Media Party, Fashion Forward, & NBFW runway show

What a week! I'm not going to lie, I'm exhausted. Between trying to adjust to my new schedule & flying out the door each evening to events, I'm so glad my Saturday consists of a latte from my favorite barista & a red velvet cupcake from our new local bakery! It is also Canadian Thanksgiving weekend so I have 4 delicious days off with nothing much to do!!

As I enjoyed my coffee & cupcake this morning I pondered today's post.
After attending the Fashion Event last night I wondered what approach i should take in covering the event. There was some fabulous fashion, some baffling decisions & some obvious hard work, but as a Plus Size blogger I wanted to offer my perspective. My intention was to focus specifically on the plus size pieces, accessories & overall general tone of the affair, since it was my first fashion week. I asked about plus size long before the event & was told specifically there would be plus size representation, in models, clothing & with at least one local designer - exciting!!!
Unfortunately the 'plus size' component seemed to have disappeared by the time the event came to fruition. There were no plus size fashions, designers or models*. Although I was glad to be included in the event & have my opinion valued, I'm left wondering, as a blogger, what do I say?

What I can say is this, we have some amazing local talent & contributions to the fashion world!

Our stylists work hard & come up with stunning looks.

Our local designers have vision & talent.

Chainmaille Obsession by Andrea Cyr

Our shops have amazing product & staff.

Runway look from Walsh Luggage

And our local bloggers support their community & fashion! Check out my fellow bloggers & their different takes on the events of the week;

Barb of barbbarbbarb
Leigh-Ellen from LittleWaterlily, Big Pond
Melissa of Sigh..gush..gasp
Chelsea, our Maritime Shopaholic

With blogger, Chelsea

I was really enjoying all the opportunities I had to dress up this week! This outfit was put together of simple affordable components but I was so happy with how it all came together. The dress is several years old from Reitman's, top from Old Navy, shoes came from Payless & I layered several necklaces. Oh, the clutch was a score at Winner's, from XOXO.

Overall I had a fun night out, with lots of great company & saw so many beautiful, fashionable things. Do I wish that my plus size community had of had representation? Absolutely - but there is always the spring collections, right?

*there was a plus size model in the hair competition, but not in the runway show

Fashion Forward

2011-10-07T09:22:00.001-03:00

I resisted the temptation to go with some further alliteration in the title there, what with being Full of Fabulous...

Last evening, Uptown Saint John played host to scores of locally fashionable ladies, all ages, all sizes & all styles. I joined in the festivities fashionably late, missing the kick off but my date Pam & I were happy shoppers non the less...

Underground parking photo shoot anyone??

Fashion Forward was a shop hop of the grandest kind featuring sales, discounts, giveaways, finger foods, wine, demonstrations... wine. Oh, did I mention wine??

All the fashionable were out & uptown! We stumbled across two of my favorite bloggers & one fab-u-lous hairdresser all out front of local shop Je Suis Prest.

Chelsea of Maritime Shopaholic

Melissa of Sigh Gush Gasp

Adam from Hairacy, working his magic!

So besides the beautiful people there was some serious shopping to be done! I found myself 'head over heels' in love with this particular pair of booties at Manchester Shoes in Market Square. The boutique was offering 20% during the event... take one guess if these are mine now?

Remonte Dorndorf

I also scored some new accessories from Silver Daisy Designs & the chance to win a Marc Jacobs bag (which unfortunately/fortunately was won by my lovely friend Melissa, pictured above! Congrats!!). I'll save showing those off until I wear them with the perfect outfit!

Speaking of outfit here are a couple last pictures of mine from the night...! (Thanks Pam for being my photographer!)

Top& Jeans/Forever 21+

I am loving this top from Forever 21! I have been saving it for this particular night out & wish I could have snapped a picture of the back with the mesh & zipper but sadly it slipped my mind. *bad blogger*

Hair by Moi!

I was extremely proud of my hair.. having actually done it myself. I'm mostly posting this picture for the benefit of my BFF stylist Vanessa... just to prove how far I've come (seriously hair incompetent most of my life, relying heavily on her dear sweet patient ways!!)!

pathetic iPhone self portrait to end the night

Tonight I will be attending the New Brunswick Fashion Week Gala event, yet another excuse to look fabulous. Hopefully that post will go up this weekend! Also stay tuned next week for a new 'Boutique Talk' piece & a long postponed 'Shopping Cart' feature! Plenty going on in this life that is so Full of Fabulous...

Media Darling

2011-10-05T21:48:00.000-03:00

October 5th, 2011.
I'm making note so I remember the exact day I offically became part of 'the media'.

Here in New Brunswick we are about to launch our first ever Fashion Week. Those of you reading from big cities are probably scratching your head but all of us Port City girl's are shaking in our Steve Madden's with excitement (well all except this girl, since Leigh Ellen nabbed the last in my size... *le sigh*). Don't be mistaken, we are a fashionable bunch!

So how does that lead to me becoming an offical part of the media? Organizers invited myself & some of the other local bloggers to the New Brunswick Fashion Week Media Party at the Market Square Atrium this week where we were presented with media passes.

While collecting passes I saw a few of my local lovlies... (gee I wish I could insert a photo here but someone was camera shy, another someone had to rush off to her furries...)
And barely managed to snap a few outfit photos with Chelsea from Maritime Shopaholic, before having to fall back into 'mom duty' & become chauffeur to my boy scout again....

Sweater/Reitmans, Scarf/Gifted, Skirt/Laura Plus, Earrings/Darling Dilemma

Thanks Chelsea for snapping a few photos for me!

Tomorrow is Fashion Forward, an Uptown Saint John shopping event. Swag bags, late night shopping & plenty of girly fun with some of my favorite ladies...

A September full of pictures...

2011-10-02T16:06:00.000-03:00

On a fall drive with my sweetie yesterday we were shocked to recognize that September was over. Fall is truly here and our whole September flew by with our vacation to Ontario, two weddings, back to school for our boy & back to work for me.

Over, in the blink of an eye...

Red Letter Year - OOTD

2011-10-01T08:00:00.004-03:00

As brave as I would like to be, public photo taking still brings out the worst in me. I see fantastic walls & fabulous backdrops but can't quite bring myself to set up the tripod for onlookers. Imagine my delight at finding a random red dumpster in the middle of nowhere...

Blouse/Torrid, Cardi/George, Jeans/Forever21, Sunglasses/Vogue, Boots/Shoe Company

I've wanted to get these boots in their premier debut on the blog for awhile. Not only are they fabulous, they are magical. Putting these boots on makes my entire day/lookout/outfit better.

Feel Good Boots!

This super cute blouse is from Torrid, purchased in the spring. I love the flirtiness of it, with ruched sleeves, tied waist & a slight flair at the bottom. I've worn it with everything from mini skirts, shorts, capris & now skinny jeans.

It was so windy out there today that my side bob was looking a little sorry by the end of this shoot (glad I did this AFTER work!) & my sweater & blouse were blowing in all sorts of directions but I'm glad I braved at least the elements to take these pictures today...

Wondering what inspired the title of today's post? Only my most favorite of favorite's, the fabulous Ani Difranco. I have seen her perform many times including tickets for my birthday TWICE from my adorable husband! Last year she played in Fredericton the night before my birthday, supporting the album Red Letter Year. Enjoy.

A lil wild...

2011-09-29T09:00:00.000-03:00

What can I say? Another gorgeous fall afternoon, another opportunity not to pass up...

I've been dying to wear this new top I discovered on my Toronto visit to Forever 21. I bought it the day I went red & was totally feelin' the fierce combo of the deep green & my firey hair.

The top is sheer & so to make it work appropriate I threw on a black cardigan I scored at WalMart. I know I know... but the one at Addition Elle was $69.99 & this one, with better fitting arms was only $18! I did score these black capris at AE though, last year at the end of summer sale.

I'm hoping I might find a black pencil skirt in my near future to really do this top justice but for today it was a fun way to make work wear a lil more wild.

Earrings by Darling Dilemma

Nail, OPI Red

P.s. the bracelet was a gift that my cousin brought me back from her Australian tour - amazionite & jade! I truly *heart* it & her!
xo

Wedding Blog Series - Part 3, The Wedding

2011-09-28T07:00:00.006-03:00

So I have managed to get 3 posts out of just one beautiful event, & trust me if I had of been on the honeymoon this might have been endless (which I am sure is just 1 of many reasons I wasn't invited along on that trip...). But today I end it all with the Wedding...

I'm not going to bore you with all the moments of a family & couple most of you don't even know, but let me give you MY top five...

Top 5 Moments

Seeing my brother's face as his bride came down the aisle (ok seriously, I'm getting misty-eyed even remembering it!).
My other brother, the best man, singing Whitney Houston's 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' at the top of his lungs on the dance floor, while jumping up & down & fist pumping. True story.
My father moving his chair over to the pie buffet for a 'better seat'.
Huge fireworks display set off by my cousin during which most of the guests spontaneously started a sing-a-long to Journey.

Having the husband drunk enough that he allowed pictures, public kissing & even danced!

Yes I do realize that 3 of the 5 are song & dance related & honestly there were 2 other contenders for the top 5 that were music related. I've always wanted my life to have a musical episode &this wedding might have been it.

I was torn between the Whitney Houston video & this....

I think I made the right choice, as did these two...

OOTD: Indian Summer

2011-09-27T14:07:00.001-03:00

Living in Saint John, New Brunswick seems to mean summer's filled with unpredictable weather. We have had hurricane's, tropical storms, blistering heat waves, overcast for weeks, rain & of course, lots of fog. But all that is behind us now, since fall has arrived.
Hasn't it?

We have had some of the best weather all summer, now that fall has arrived! That's right, Saint John is officially in the midst of a glorious Indian Summer!
Regretfully I missed taking outfit pictures til now since I am finally back to work but today I got up & out there in the sun...

I'm enjoying wearing 'real' clothes after a summer off & today I slide on my brand new skinny jeans from Forever 21+. I scored these for only $16 while visiting Toronto a few weeks ago. Plus sized clothing for under $20?? Unheard of! The earrings are also Forever 21, purchased back in May - rainbow & animal print, yes please!

Cardigan & shoes; George, Tee; Old Navy, Belt; Torrid, Purse; gifted

Tomorrow morning - Part 3 on the Wedding Series!

Wedding Blog Series - Part 2, What I Wore

2011-09-26T07:00:00.001-03:00

I promised I'd share my outfit today in part 2 of the Wedding Series!
Last month I visited Boutique Zekara in Rothesay, NB & stumbled upon the perfect dress for my brother's wedding. The thing is though, I didn't tell you which one I chose! Check back to the post to see what my options from Cherry Velvet were.

While I seemed to deliberate... I truly didn't. The moment I tried this dress on, I knew it was the perfect one. So without any further delay, the dress!

Daddy-O & Me!

As much as I wish I had a picture of me twirling in my pretty dress, I was trying desperately to avoid being the 'embarassing inlaw' this day.

$3.00 shoes from Winners

As you can see I chose the damask version of Cherry Velvet's Charlotte dress & after much shopping, endless pondering & searching for accessories (so many choices, should I go with purple, pink, red, teal..??!) I went with my already owned black & white oxford style mary jane shoes with a cardigan from George & a cute leather flower brooch from H&M, both in black.

Brother/Groom & Me!

In perfect symmetry, the Cherry Velvet site is now up & features an online store! You can bet I'm drooling over the latest dresses.

I wish I had a picture of my super cute & glittery nails in purple that matched my husband's outfit & my handmade bag from Parker Buttons! Stacy of Parker Buttons created this (currently) one-of-a-kind reversible bag for me in an enchino fabric that I have been coveting for almost a year!
Here is a closer look;

You can expect to see this bag with me often, & in it's reverse, slate grey form! Thank you again Stacy!

Great thing about this dress is the potential. The black & white lends itself to endless combinations & events. Pink bolero, or purple leggings? Heck ya!

Bride aka Sister In Law & Me

How gorgeous is my new sister in law in her dress? Check out my next post to see more detailed pictures of it, the ceremony & the partying that ensued!
(Plus as an exciting bonus... I finally talked my husband into letting me post a picture of him!! Proof he exists!)

*Oh, side note; I totally based my decision to dye my hair red almost solely on this dress.

Wedding Blog Series - Part 1, The Preperations

2011-09-24T07:00:00.001-03:00

Beauty is in the details...
The day before my brother's wedding we gathered together, two families & plenty of friends, to make all those details perfect, together.

centrepieces

It was said many times, during the day of the wedding, that a marriage is more than just the couple, it is the blending of two families but I think that blending happens the day before the event. The day that my mother spent with the mother of the bride, making the bouquets, the table arrangements, while I created 8 large arrangements for their aisle.

I think the union happens while setting tables, unfolding chairs, stocking the bar & sharing a meal together.

reception barn

Sharing a few last instagram pics from our day of preparations & rehearsing;

Is there anything more beautiful than a wedding?

Stay tuned for Part 2 - my outfit!

I Whip My Hair

2011-09-22T07:01:00.002-03:00

Ya, I did it. I once again went for a dramatic change in my hair. Being blonde was excellent but my winter white skin is already encroaching on my look & so I felt it was time for a change.

I put it off a little longer than wanted in order to wait & get back to Ontario & my Vanessa. I can't imagine making a dramatic hair choice without her. The day after Phil & Tiff's wedding I headed to Toronto so we could brunch then dye. Oh & shop... we totally shopped (that could/will be a whole other post!).

These are some different 'outfit' photos I took, showing more of my 'look' than my clothes.

shirt from Torrid

capris from addition elle, shoes birkenstock

I wanted to to a bit of a shoot on my parent's property without dragging out a tripod etc. the results were different, but I think fun!

Just a little look at my previous Ontario life...

So, what do you think of the new & latest, fabulous look? Vanessa also turned my husband's shaggy locks into some seriously smokin' hair... but he won't let me show you. *giggle*

If you are in Toronto, or will be & want some fabulous hair, Vanessa at House of Lords is the only girl worth seeing.

Sorry folks, but I just can't resist ending this post with this;

Nice Day for a White Wedding...

2011-09-20T22:19:00.000-03:00

Just got back home today after a whirlwind trip to Ontario & back! If you have been reading the blog lately you already know & have enjoyed the guest posts by lovelies, Heather, Melissa, Baye & Natalie. Didn't they do a fabulous job?!!

While most people road trip in the summer or vacation to warmer weather in the winter, this year we chose to do neither & side with love.

We spent about 2 days in out car (aka Boris the Yaris) travelling from Saint John, New Brunswick to Barrie, Ontario to get home in time for friend's Phil & Tiff's wedding. As I mentioned before we are thrilled for this couple & so happy to have made it there to support them & this big life decision. Tiff told me just shortly before the wedding day that while she was excited for the wedding, what she was really thrilled about was being Phil's wife.

Making her entrance... looking fabulous!

And it is Official!

It doesn't get much sweeter than that folks!

Well, other than this little munchkin, their daughter!

Several months ago I placed an order with Torrid, getting my first strapless dress EVER. I've saved it all summer for this wedding, matching it perfectly with a George cardigan & a necklace I made myself.

I can't tell you how excited I've been to finally wear this! My favorite thing about it is definitely the bit of crinoline underneath. It adds a bit of special to the dress.

Floppy look pre haircut, leather rose from H&M, necklace handmade

My husband made me promise he would get photo credit for these outfit shots, so thanks babe for putting up with me!

Once again we want to send a big congrats & so much love to our friend's. Thanks for including us in your special day!

xo,

Guest Blogger: Natalie, Derby Girl

2011-09-18T09:07:00.028-03:00

About now, I'm nursing a hangover (boozy & emotional) from my baby brother's wedding in a quaint cottage by the water. So let's skip the prelude & let me tell you how happy I am to introduce you to Natalie! I know Natalie from twitter through a derby connection. I've decided to not hold it against her that she plays for our Fog City Roller's rival team Capital City Roller's since she seems pretty great. Natalie also has her own blog so make sure you check that out as well! Without further ado, here's Natalie (Thanks lady!) xo Em

It’s a girl thing…..

My name is Natalie and I am plus-sized. Recently, I‘ve been able to add “proudly” to that sentence. Proudly plus-sized. Sounds so simple, only it isn’t.

I come from a long line of people who’ve struggled with weight and size. I’m sure some of you can relate to coming from “big families”. I am one of those people. I have one of those families. We are those people. Are you? I’ve spent a lifetime, plus a day, reconciling how my jean size could somehow dictate my sense of self and my sense of worth. I am smarter than that. I’ve read everything from the Beauty Myth to Cosmo and I’ve spent far too much time coming up with far too few answers. I’ve said “I’m happy as long as I’m healthy” and wanted desperately to mean it. But truth be told, deep down, I never did.

So many times, I’ve said “I’m done, and I am happy if I stay this size forever”….so many times I have only felt it for a matter of weeks, and sometimes even days. It never stuck. A new dress usually made me feel better for a brief period and a new bra could even squeeze out a few months at times, but it never lasted…until recently.

What has changed? Nothing really…I’m still the same person…I still weigh about the same, give or take, on any given day…. And try as I might, I’ve not won any fabulous sums of money which would allow me to buy a new bra every day of week. What IS new in my life are the people surrounding me. I have joined roller derby…. and suddenly my world has expanded and so has my appreciation of my body.

We joke about it being a cult, or at best, a sisterhood, naysayers have called it a trend….but for so many of us, especially myself, it is simply more.

It is a new way of seeing myself and seeing all women. It is feeling truly appreciated, loved and attractive for the first time in many, many, years. It is realizing that the tiniest woman can pack a huge punch and that the girl with the big wide hips can roll like a freight train. It is getting compliments from people who are not trying to sleep with me or trick me into buying anything. It is getting support from people who want to see me succeed as a blocker and also as a person. It is understanding that a good pack is often made up of many sizes and shapes. It is being praised for knowing how to use my big ass strategically to defend a fellow teammate when she is trying to score points. It is wearing tighter clothes, brighter colors and more daring cuts. It is not being afraid of revealing that version of me that been hidden under oversized clothes for far too many years.

It is pride…in not only what my body looks like…but what it can do. It is proudly answering “Torrid” when someone asks me where I bought my dress….instead of “I forget”. It is learning that my body can be an incredible thing of beauty, even at a size 16-18.

Guest Blog; Simpli Baye

2011-09-15T05:00:00.054-03:00

Right about now I'm gearing up for the big event - my brother's wedding! There will be preparations, rehearsal dinner & I heard rumors of a bonfire the night before! Gee... I guess I need to pack a cute bonfire outfit!
I'm super excited about today's guest blogger, the most adorable Baye! Baye isn't a blogger but a fabulous tweeter, a cupcake queen & like a said... ADORABLE! I'll let you see for yourself, but trust me when I tell you this won't be the last you see of her...... *something up our sleeves*

Sympli is Simply the Best

For all the women that have squeezed yourselves into slimming undergarments in order for you new dress to look perfect, been afraid to eat another bite at Christmas dinner in fear of the button on your pants popping off, or been totally stuck while packing for you dream vacation due to the hassle of ironing adorable dresses. Well ladies, be "outfit conscious" no more!

Canadian made "Sympli" is an amazing line of clothing suited to everyone. Sympli is a heavy jersey material available from sizes 2-18 (the plus size collection is debuting this fall!) in 36 different colors! Talk about versatile!

The jersey is amazing, especially for travel as it is wrinkle resistant and no fuss - its easy care fabrics can go in your washer and hang to dry - ball it up in your suitcase and go! With most pieces fitting generously you feel beyond confident and beautiful in it. Another benefit of the heavy jersey? It truly does NOT cling! With Sympli I can wear the same outfit as my friend in a size 2 and look just as good ... maybe better! Meanwhile, you feel like you're wearing your pajamas - perfect!

Me at the Pgal's Closet Sympli Trunk show in April '11. I am wearing the Pallazzo Pant and Kimono in Black with my own denim jacket and infinity jewellery scarf from Pgal's Closet.

Sympli is all hand made in Vancouver by women for women. Working mom's are their number one resource and are dedicated to promote positive self-image encouraging women of all ages, shapes and sizes to wear clothes with confidence and as a compliment to their personality, mood and to forget the myth that they would be happier with a "perfect body" The White House Design Company proudly supports the Looking Glass Foundation, a non-profit organization based in BC run by a group of passionate mothers who are making a difference by trying to bring happiness and positive futures to troubled youth struggling with eating disorders. (For more information check out the Looking Glass Foundation at www.lookingglassbc.com)

Sandra Miller of Sandra Miller Floral Design at the Trunk show wearing the Sympli Chakra Tunic, Urban Cardigan and Diva legging all in black - jewellery is from Pgal's Closet.

Me at the trunk show wearing Sympli's Deep Pocket Tunic in black.

Sandra Miller again looking stunning in the Rhythm tunic, Rhythm coat and cigarette pant in Currant.

Pgal's Closet is owned by - my fabulous, if I do say so myself, mother - Patricia Gallagher and is located in Rothesay, New Brunswick; attached to it's sister home decor store, Country Treasures. All Sympli pieces can be ordered from there and takes about 8 weeks to arrive by special order; the in-store collection, however, is always great!

Sympli is available at:

Pgal's Closet/Country Treasures
116 Hampton Road
Rothesay, NB

506-849-PGAL

As well as at the beautiful & seasonal;;
Pgal's Closet featuring Boutique Zekara
172 Water Street
St. Andrews by the Sea, NB

506-529-PGAL

You can check out more Sympli looks at: www.symplithebest.com & www.pgalscloset.com

Guest Blog: An Inexpensive Update by Melissa

2011-09-12T05:00:00.004-03:00

Hi again folks... still on vacation but have another fantastic & fabulous blogger to share with you! Today my friend, dancer, blogger & teacher is Melissa from Sigh...Gush...Gasp (one day I totally have to ask how she chose the blog name cuz I love it!). Check out her post & then swing over to her blog to see her fabulous fashion posts & OOTD's!
Thanks for filling in for me Melissa! Oh.. & if you order the teal bracelet - can I borrow it??

Hi everyone, I’m Melissa from Sigh…Gush…Gasp. I am so honoured to be guest posting for Emma while she is away on vacation. Hope you have a great trip Emma!

Each season there are always so many things that I want to add to my closet. Fall is no exception. However, sometimes we can’t always afford all the things we want. The great thing is a lot of the time summer clothes can be extended into fall by adding a cardigan, tights and booties to an outfit. However, for me, one of the most inexpensive ways to update my wardrobe and to add something new, is with accessories.

Inexpensive update by melissacurler featuring metal jewelry

Chain jewelry
$35 - modcloth.com

Metal jewelry
$15 - modcloth.com

Metal jewelry
$12 - modcloth.com

Earrings and necklaces are great updates for a wardrobe anytime of the year. However, if you can tailor it to the season it is even better. The earrings and necklace pictured above are a couple of my favorites, but could be worn in any season. The ring could be worn in any season as well, however the burgundy colour of the flowers is perfect for this fall, as it is one of the in colours. Also for fall, you could add some animal print accessories like these bracelets available at Nordstroms

Click here for link

I am in love with the teal and animal print bracelet. This may be the next addition to my wardrobe for this season. What is your must have accessory for the fall?

Guest Post: Hello Heather!

2011-09-09T05:00:00.066-03:00

So glad to have Heather of Gully Beads & a great friend, be my first guest blogger while I am off in Ontario (hopefully soaking up sun & drinking mojitos..). Heather makes fabulous jewelry & is also a graphic designer - you can find her on twitter, facebook & her very own website with blog included!

First let me tell you it's great to be guest blogging today on Full of Fabulous, and what's more fabulous this season than nails?!

I have a huge nail polish collection it may even rival my shoe collection and this year nails are HOT and it seems anything goes. Everyone seems to have a different take on what the hottest colors this season will be. Neutrals are high on the list but judging by some of the color pallets from OPI I think it's safe to say anything goes.
My favorites of the season is Nice Stems by OPI.

OPI Colours Left to Right: Black Shatter, Come to Poppy, Play the peonies, I lily love you, Be a dahlia won't you and Silver shatter

Pictured here is 'Play the peonies', with a top coat of 'I Lily love you'!

Today I want to share with you two growing trends that have been out all summer but show no sign of slowing down in popularity.

1. Sally Hansen nail pens, used to draw on your own designs on top off your favorite colour.

2. Shatter by OPI, it creates a crackel effect on top of your favorite colour polish.

Both trends are available in multiply colors. I'm going to test the black Sally Hansen nail pen and the Shatter by OPI in Black and Silver.

I'm sure like me, many of you like the idea of drawing on your nails but your saying can it really be that easy. The answer I'm afraid is, NO! I liked to think I could accomplish this adventure into the art of a nail pen but alas I don't have the patience for it. Overall I didn't like the finished product (as I'm sure you'll agree by the photo below).
It is really hard to draw on your nail and the pen is not as fluid as polish on a brush.

Nail Colours from top to botton: Mauving to Manitoba, Yodel Me On My Cell, Didgeridoo Your Nails and Come to Poppy

(I just can't get enough of the 2 cute names)

The second trend is was Shatter by OPI, I first purchased the black and I fell in love, which led to the purchase of the silver. *note from Em ~ it was Heather that got me hooked on Shatter too!
It's as easy as 1, 2, 3 and you'll love the results - no special skill required! You use your favorite polish for a base coat let dry completely (10min) then apply a top coat of shatter, application is easy with OPI's new wide brush. Apply in one swipeas it doesn't allow for multiply coats then watch it shatter.

Simple and beautiful. Another added bonus is when your polish has started to chip but you don't have time to do a polish swap, hit it with shatter and it will look revived.

Overall I think the Nail pen at $8.99 is for people who have a lot of time on their hands (insert corny pun here) and want to perfect the art of the nail pen but if you want more bang for your
buck, I totally recommend the Shatter by OPI $9-$11 per bottle for a no muss no fuss awesome finished look.

Stay Fabulous,

Heather

Homeward Bound

2011-09-08T05:00:00.008-03:00

Yes I'm in my car, but no I'm not driving so please don't hassle me about dangerous driving

Well by the time you read this I will be en route to Ontario!
I am heading back to my hometown for 10 days & 2 weddings & I have to admit I am beyond excited about the whole thing.

Our first stop will be Edmunston to spend a night with my husband's Aunt & Uncle before we make our way to Montreal for an evening with my gorgeous cousin, Noelle & her adorable family. From there we will make the drive home & arrive mid day Friday. Saturday is the first wedding, so needless to say it is a jam packed trip!

Our friend's Phil & Tiffany are an adorable couple, with an even more adorable daughter Claire (sorry guys, but she IS way cuter than both of you combined, just sayin'). We couldn't be happier that these two found each other & are finally joining us in the 'husband & wife' category!
I can't wait to show you the dress I picked out from Torrid for their wedding & how I style it.

The second big event for us on this trip, is actually HUGE... one of my younger twin brothers, Noah, is getting married to the gorgeous Mary Claire. I mean this is huge for me. So big I don't even have words. Let's just say I get teary thinking about it.
It is going to be an outdoor/barn wedding & I'm sure the photos I have to share from that day will be magnificent! As will the Cherry Velvet dress & a few surprises I have up my sleeve!

While I am away I have some awesome guest bloggers lined up for you so make sure you are following via google friend connect of bloglovin' to keep up to date (& this may help with an upcoming blog giveaway... hint hint). Check back tomorrow for my first guest blog post ~ Heather from Gully Beads!

An August Full of Pictures

2011-09-01T13:03:00.000-03:00

September 1st!??
Only a few dates a year feel quite this dramatic as they arrive (my birthday, December 1st... and ya that's all I got). I was almost sure I had some how been tricked of my August/summer until I started to look at some of August's instagram photos.

Obviously my life is jam packed full of awesome!

And fun!

And so much love & cuteness!!

(Obviously we got a new baby kitten but I won't bore you with ALL the photos)

And finally, a bit of calm & beauty after Tropical Storm Irene...

OOTD Goodnight Irene

2011-08-30T17:10:00.000-03:00

By now everyone has heard of Hurricane Irene hitting the east coast. Luckily by the time it hit my part of the world it had been down graded & our city had very little damage. Yesterday was high winds & tides.... today all was beautiful again.

In fact, it might be some of the best weather we've had all summer!
I took advantage of the amazing skies, misty blowing of the sea & hit the shore with my tripod.

Second hand skirt from Torrid. Top from Addition Elle (years ago!). Bracelet, Forever 21.

I've had this skirt for months now but keep forgetting that my wonderful friend Vanessa sent it to me from Toronto. Today was finally the day to wear it. The top is a favorite but shows plenty of cleavage so isn't always appropriate - hanging at the beach with coffee & a friend seems cleavage appropriate to me!

A little fun in the sun (and a mad dash from the waves!)...

Saint's Rest Beach, Saint John, New Brunswick

Just an all around great summer moment, when there are so few left to be had...

Shopping Cart Sunday v.6 - Big Girl Gone Wild!

2011-08-28T09:30:00.000-03:00

Okay so I know all the bloggers are posting it, they are all talking about it & some are even already wearing it but I just have to say, I gotta have some cheetah print!

Cheetah in Plus Size! by fulloffabulous featuring plus size tops

Plus size dress, $68Plus size top, $42Plus size military jacket, $78Shoes
Handbag
Belt, $24

These are some of my favorite fall 'must have' items with an obvious focus on cheetah/leopard print. Most items are from City Chic, an online shop I'm dying to try out, with a few additions from Torrid.
So how are you feeling about animal prints for fall? Have you added any to your wardrobe yet?

OOTD Out of Africa

2011-08-25T18:33:00.000-03:00

When I stumbled upon this linen skirt in a Winner's up in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia (one always stumbles onto things in Winner's, never finds) I knew it was making the trip back home with me.

I've had a fashion crush on long linen skirts most of my fashion life & I can only guess it steams from the impression one movie made on my youth romantic heart.

Out of Africa

Truth is I can never look at a long linen skirt or natural flowy blouse without calling to mind a safari visual! I won't dissect this long standing love affair to figure out if it was Meryl Streep & her fashion or Robert Redford's ruggedness that made the impression.

I'm just going to enjoy my new skirt.

skirt; winner's, tee; old navy

necklace; Darling Dilemma

*also take note that this OOTD finally incorporates 2 things I said I was going to try out... the maxi & a high waisted skirt. I'm not lying when I tell you this was the first time I tucked a top into a bottom since high school.....

Michael Kors for me...

2011-08-17T15:29:00.000-03:00

Maybe I've lived under a Canadian fashion rock for too long... but I had no clue that Michael Kors made a plus sized line (carried by bloomingdale's & macy's)! To be fair I haven't travelled to the US since I was 20, a size 12/14, wore bicycle shorts under mini dresses & a brown satin smoking jacket...

Belted Cargo Jacket $203

Actually have my tastes changed much?

Faux Fur Vest, $185

Cargo Dress, sale $77

Shopping Cart Saturday v.5

2011-08-13T18:40:00.000-03:00

Okay - enough about shoes!!
Let's dig those heels into fall...

I know, you want to hate me just for saying it but with the September issue of all the magazines hitting the stands it is hard not to get excited about switching over my wardrobe & finding brand new pieces to incorporate into it.

So what am I most excited about this fall? Coloured denim & fabulous tights!

We Love Color, plus sized colorful tights $1

Purpe skinny jean from ASOS

Maybe I just want flashy legs!
Cuz something about these leggings with bows from Domino Dollhouse make me giddy!!

I'm also dying for these red skinny jeans from ASOS Curve line to mix & match with some of my favorite black pieces & a perfectly matching red belt I nabbed from Torrid. I'm also envisioning them paired with a bold b&w blouse I love...

ASOS CURVE, Skinny Red Jean $60.34

So those are my Shopping Cart picks for this week - what is on your list of fall 'must haves'?

Julyfull

2011-08-12T13:04:00.000-03:00

I love my life, my family & my country. The way I capture fragments of love to hold on forever is all the photos I take. I've decided to share monthly instagram photo collections with you.

This was my July.

Too Full of Shoes?

2011-08-10T10:52:00.000-03:00

So, my husband thinks I have too many shoes.

Now before you start envisioning a closet filled with a drool-worthy collection you need to know that my husband thinks that anyone "who owns more than 5 pairs of shoes needs their head examined," and that is a direct facebook quote my friends!

So before I go any further, I am sure you are all curious as too what my shoe 'collection' consists of. What is going on with my shoe rack that has my husband telling me, he thinks I have enough??
Here it is, in it's entirety (minus my 1 pair of pink & black winter boots that I'm not digging out yet, not even for a picture BUT can be seen in my background blog image);

This is clearly not an outrageous or out of control collection. A few pairs of flats (all under $20), standard work shoes (under $100), sexy red boots scored on sale ($40)... nothing extravagant.

So how many is too many?
And what shoes are required/standards to be fully fabulous?

As seen in my latest Shopping Cart feature, pink shoes are feeling rather mandatory right now & truth be told, (& seen from my above photo) I don't really have a pair of 'fancy' shoes!
I'm also swooning over a purple pair of Reikers from Boutique Zekara that I posted here.

Of course new work shoes, winter boots & a great pair of rubber ones too, now that I'm thinking of it....

It is easy to get carried away!

In an attempt to justify, defend & prove my righteousness, I took to facebook & twitter and pulled out the question - How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Melissa, of the blog Sigh, Gush, Gasp with some of her favorite shoes in her 34 pair collection

A few followers admitted to over 100, some around the 5 pair mark, but most of us own somewhere between 12 & 30 pairs.

Obviously I'm falling behind.

If you are starting to think this post is just an excuse to prove a point & end a marital argument... you are totally half wrong.
I'm fascinated by the complicated relationship us women have with our shoes.

There are those of us who see them strictly as serving a purpose; sand, rain, snow, work.

Those of us with admitted addictions who haven't a real clue how many we have, or even what exactly is in our closet.

The connoisseur who saves money, knows the brands & buys the perfect pair, each & every time.

A lot of us are somewhere in between 2 of these.

I heard more than a few curvy chicks say that they buy too many shoes & think it is because it is easier to find a shoe that fits than an outfit. Shoe size is irrelevant to body shape & size.
Now if only marketing firms & shoe companies would only pay attention to that idea & put some amazing curvy legs in their print ads.....

My prized red boots

Friend Misty in her Doc Martin's

Vanessa in sexy black pumps & tattoos!

Blogger Curvy Canadian who always looks fabulous with an extra side of wonderful

Someone obviously needs to hire me to tell them this stuff.

Guest Post on Lips Hips & FATshion Tips

2011-08-08T09:26:00.000-03:00

Hello friends!
Instead of telling you about my weekend or lack of shopping lately I would love for you to cruise on over to the Lips Hips & FATshion Tips blog by Stiletto Siren. I am guest blogging today while she is on vacation in California!

You can check out the whole post here & all of her other inspirational posts & fantastic outfits.

Enjoy the vacation Stiletto & stay fabulous!

Shopping Cart Sunday v.4

2011-08-07T15:16:00.000-03:00

The only actual thing in my shopping cart this weekend is the Cherry Velvet dress seen here, (have you made your vote yet?) but dress shopping has made me start to think of shoes & accessories to match!
I started to scour the Internet this morning hunting for the perfect hot pink flat. Why hot pink? It will match my chosen outfits for two different weddings & is a shoe colour sorely missing from my wardrobe!

If I could find it, I think this would be the one for me;

I've seen this shoe in various other colours & always in a high heel. I've fall in love with it every single time. Problem is, due to severe ankle problems I cannot wear a heel... ever.
Imagine my delight when I saw the above shoe online today.
Now imagine my sorrow when I couldn't find it for sale anywhere.

My friend Melissa, from the blog Sigh, Gush, Gasp suggested I try Zappo's for my shoe hunt & here is what I turned up;

Me Too Ladon

Me Too Stellina

I did enjoy the idea of these $325 Kate Spade beauties... for a brief moment until my reality kicked back in.

Kate Spade, New York Frankie

It suddenly occurs to me that I could try a great black flat & invest in 1 or 2 colours of shoe clips. Would further my investment & wear... These ones from etsy are rather adorable;

Ruffle Flower shoe clips by sunshineandcarousels on etsy

So what would be your choice? Or maybe you have a great suggestion for me?

Also can no one mention this post to my husband... he already thinks I have too many pairs of shoes!

A Picnic Full of Fabulous!

2011-08-06T18:43:00.000-03:00

August 6th is our wedding anniversary & this year was our 6th celebration. My totally sweet & occasionally romantic husband suggested that a picnic might be the perfect was to enjoy the moment.

I couldn't agree more.

A not so great picture of my wedding & engagement ring but a reminder all the same.
Bracelet is a necklace I made.

We travelled out of town to Fredericton as per my suggestion so that we could hit up the local farmer's market there for the perfect picnic treats. I also thought O'Dell park would make for the perfect backdrop to any romantic lounging on a blanket that might happen.

He doesn't like photos so let's pretend this is a picture of the tree.

Of course a picnic also means appropriate picnic wear. I was dreaming of a long flowery maxi skirt but since I don't own one I went with these cute shorts from Winner's and this summer top from Old Navy.

I made goofy faces in most of today's pictures as a result of my husband's antics

I wish I had slightly better photos & fewer wrinkles (in my clothes! be kind!), but romantic picnics are not really meant for such concerns I suppose.

Favorite snap of the day. Ring gifted from Vanessa.

Thanks for sharing the best part of my week with me!

Stay fabulous!

Shop Talk - Boutique Zekara

2011-08-05T18:18:00.000-03:00

After my last post/rant I knew I had to further explore my clothing options. As a six foot tall, size 20 woman I'm used to not finding anything that fits in a store. So much so that I guess I gave up on boutiques. Eventually it becomes a heartbreaking experience to see beautiful things that were never meant to be yours.

I'm sure many of you know what I'm talking about. In fact, I know you do because I've talked to some of you, commiserated with you.

Then Donna from Boutique Zekara sent me an email...

Donna has started to carry two plus sized lines in her Rothesay shop; Cherry Velvet & Diane Kennedy! I'm not going to lie... my excitement level was high!

If you are not familiar with Boutique Zekara or are not in New Brunswick, it is an amazing shop. Shoes & make up in the front, clothing & salon services in the back!

Make up counter above, shoe selection right

Clothing with items from the Diane Kennedy line in front

I tried on all kinds of the Diane Kennedy line to discover some of the comfiest clothes I've had on in ages! It is an organic bamboo line with some amazing cuts. But I'm going to have to tell you all about them some other time, and this is why;

ignore the bruise on my leg

I'm in love.

This dress in a simply perfect cut from Cherry Velvet, a Vancouver based dress company focusing on retro inspired plus size dresses. Boutique Zekara is carrying this style in X to 3X in several different patterns.

Hanging on the rack does this dress no justice. Trying it on made me want to twirl!

The length is great for my 6ft tall frame. The sizing is appropriate (I normally wear a 2X or 3X depending on the designer... i wear a 1X in this dress - gotta love that feeling!). It is fitted in all the right places & it shows of just the right amount of cleavage.

Cleavage I won't be disowned for

I thought for sure I was sold on ordering from eShakti for my brother's September wedding, but the idea of supporting a local business AND buying Canadian feels so much better!

My dilemma now is.... which one?

The polka dot one draws me in with the tiny detail of lace on the neckline, and because who can EVER resist polka dots??

But once I tried on the damask it just 'felt' right for the occasion. A simple but gorgeous dress for the outdoor wedding of one of my favorite people in the whole world...

Also I'm picturing finding the perfect hot pink shoes & clutch for it.

So I'm turning to you readers for some help. Which one do you like better? Which one would you choose for me?

Leave me your vote & if you are out in Rothesay make sure to stop in and say hello to Donna & check out everything this one shop has to offer!

The shoes that must be mine

Shopping in the Great White

2011-08-02T21:04:00.000-03:00

This weekend's Shopping Cart feature has lead me to thinking about one of my most often thought of fashion dilemma... Canadian Plus Size retailers.

I discovered this site; http://www.plussizefashion.ca/ which lists what is available to Canadian women wearing plus size but frankly, more than half of them are still just American sites who just happen to ship to Canada. If these retailers want Canadian customers, why have none of them set up shop here?

That is my real question.

Why do we have only a handful of retailers carrying plus sized clothing (and 3 of the 5 that come to mind are all owned by the same company.. but more on that later!)?
In recent years we have seen some of the US favorites like American Eagle, H&M or Forever 21 (which does have a plus size line but doesn't have a store on the east coast OR carry it in most of their shops???) but not one of the major plus stores have opened up in the Great White North.

...I hope it's not because people like me use phrases like 'Great White North'?!!

So if we want great items from places like Torrid we have to order online. I've done this & the shipping was quick but... expensive. Torrid offers free shipping deals all the time to their US customers but doesn't extend the same courtesy to us Canadians. They also don't offer us a flat fee for shipping (like say the UK's ASOS does - $14!). I paid almost $40 in shipping for my last order.
It really does not cost them much more to ship to us in Canada, so why not offer free shipping? I mean, we will probably have to pay giant duty fees on our purchases anyways, so make it easy on a girl, Torrid!
Forever 21 stores have reached Canada but not the east coast AND to make matters worse a) only a couple locations carry the plus line & b) they don't even carry the full plus line on the Canadian version of the website! (Check out a previous post all about that!)

Okay okay, enough about what we can't get (for now...*sigh). What CAN we get? Where can we big Canadian girls, walk in & buy something? Here are the big hitters;

Pennington's - plenty of locations & an online shop (flat shipping, free returns). These tend to be large stores in plazas carrying wide selections of items... problem is they tend to be almost all for the older demographic of plus size's. You can occasionally find something fun & current there though.

Addition Elle - Guess what? This store is owned by the same company as Pennington's! It tends to sell higher end (higher priced) items that are more for the 20-40 demographic. They also carrying a younger line called MXM. Probably my favorite thing to purchase there, besides camisoles are dresses & bras. They have an extensive assortment of bras & panties.

Reitmans - Canadian chain that carries petite, regular & plus size clothing. Specializing in casuals, denim & cotton basics. Oh & guess what? This company owns Pennington's & Addition Elle! Strangely I find their jeans are better fit & at half the cost.

Old Navy - we are all familiar with this large chain, owned by Gap. Their sizes in Canada only go up to 20 though (...while their US counterpart goes to 30!).
Walmart - I don't really think I need to describe this hallow hell, do I? hahaha

I think our only salvations at the moment are Etsy & the speciality boutique. Beautiful shops & people who have the sense to know & care that there are women beyond the size 12/14. But I'll have more* to say about that in another post.

So what are your shopping experiences like, plus sized, east coast, west coast, online - I want to hear it all! Share in my misery (or rant)!

In Montreal, wearing Torrid, Addition Elle & Winners

*If you are an east coast shop owner or Canadian website who would like to talk to me about what you have to offer plus size shoppers please feel free to to contact me - I'd love to hear from you!

Shopping Cart Saturday v.3

2011-07-30T09:54:00.000-03:00

Lola & Gigi's is one of Canada's best & only online plus size shopping sites. It is also one of my favorite places to browse! I love having Canadian options for my clothing purchases & wish more retailers would set up shop in the Great White North.

This week's dream shoping cart includes these two fabulous pieces

Jibri High Waist Full Skirt $99

Both these pieces just look like they are amazing quality but the cuts of them are

what drew me to them!

I've decided I have avoided the high waisted skirt for far too long & this is the one I want to break that streak with. Add the shrug below & I can take this skirt right into my late fall wardrobe!

SWAK Amber Shrug $38

What's on your wishlist this week?

Esthetically Fabulous!

2011-07-28T22:39:00.001-03:00

Excuse the egotistical sounding post title but I swear it will make poetic sense momentarily.

Since moving to New Brunswick I've been on the hunt for a local stylist/salon that has got what it takes. I'm not THAT picky... I just want a shade of blonde that isn't yellow or brassy (or as I learned today - a cool blonde). I've had one turn it yellow & pretend there wasn't anything wrong with it & one who tried to dye my hair blonde instead of bleaching - leaving a huge line

where my old & new colours met.

I had heard of Essential Esthetics from my friend & fellow blogger Barb but hadn't made it in there until today.

Today I met Marissa.

Totally adorable, totally fabulous Marissa.

OK it is a phone picture but I thought I'd throw it in for fun!!

Anyways, I have been having a few days of feeling unattractive & over a week of bad hair days but Marissa fixed me right up!

She did up my colour, giving me a fabulous shade of blonde that I adore & a richer dark underneath. She also gave me some spot on bangs!

If you haven't checked out Essential Esthetics on Union Street yet - you need to.

The ladies are super friendly & know their stuff!

Make up, nails, hair, waxing, relaxation massage, teeth whitening; they've got you covered!

I felt awesome after my appointment (photographic evidence)!

Dress; George

Oh, & by the way - how cute is this dress? I bought it 2 years ago wore it once but pulled it out again this summer & am loving it!

Sun Kissed!

2011-07-26T14:15:00.000-03:00

While they aren't the most professional fashion blog photos, in fact they are pretty much a throw back to the myspace days of self portraits but I was feeling so perfectly sun kissed & happy in the sun that I couldn't help but share!

Mispec Beach, New Brunswick

It was my first real beach visit of the summer & it was a spectacular one! Perfect weather & company, & as you can tell... the perfect view.

This swimsuit is last year's & a rare perfect find from Old Navy. Although it doesn't have the support I would like, it has garnered a few wolf whistles from the husband (& after 11 years together, who can't help but enjoy that!).
I'm still dreaming of my perfect suit from Get Go Retro though (seen here)!!
Until the swimsuit fairies deliver (as my friend Susan says lol), this one will have to do.

I leave you with one last look at my playground....

Road Trip Round Up!

2011-07-25T12:19:00.000-03:00

Irving Nature Park, Saint John, NB

My GingerKid with Cape Breton, NS behind him

I have just returned from a wonderful mini summer vacation! Well vacation might be too strong of a word.... we'll go with road trip! It truly was a classic road trip.

Cape Enrage, N

Chrissy's Look Off, Cape Breton, NB

The part of this trip that made it a once-of-a-lifetime kind of thing was my Dad. He rode his motorbike out to NB with one of my cousins & an uncle but left the motorcade & bike behind for an more bonding type experience with me & the GingerKid!

Obviously New Glasgow, NB. What a great sign!

Since my love of fashion is obviously lost on a 12 year old boy, I'm trying to instill some of my other loves in him... the ocean, family & adventures in the form of road trips!

We journeyed from Saint John along the Fundy coast to Cape Enrage, Hopewell Rocks then into Dieppe. Our first night was spent in New Glasgow, NS. From their we explored Cape Breton island travelling by car, ferry & bridge. I often felt like I was living a Vinyl Cafe story, with my father by my side (if you are not familiar with Vinyl Cafe & Stuart MacLean, check the link - you will thank me).

The second night we stayed with one of my favorite couples in the world, Jen & Steve in Glace Bay, NS. They treated us to great food & the best conversation (not to mention we got to rub the baby bump!). The next morning we travelled to Cape George on St. Georges Bay & then down to Truro for the night (& a tire change... *sad face*).

The next day found me saying my goodbyes to Dad & making my way back to Saint John & the husband - bittersweet.

All & all a memorable trip that I won't ever forget.
Of course road trips aren't the best occasions for outfit photos & the road hair wasn't even close to presentable! I'm throwing in just one picture, from a distance just so I can pretend this is slightly fashion related.

The clothes are comfortable & layered, the hair is curly & windproof & the company was top notch!

Shopping Cart Sunday v.2

2011-07-17T10:01:00.000-03:00

This weekend I'm all about dresses! I have two fabulous weddings approaching in early September (one is my brother's!!) back in my home province of Ontario. I imagine it will still be quite warm so have been scouring & searching for the perfect dresses.
One dress was purchased a few months ago from Torrid. An adorable strapless floral dress that I will pair with a cute bolero. I'm going to make you all wait for that one though!

In the mean time I've been trying to decide (& save money for) on the perfect to wear to my brother's outdoor/barn wedding. We are all considering this 'event' to be the party of the year, so I obviously need a dress to match the occasion! Knowing how fun & wonderful this wedding will be I know that it is the perfect excuse to make my first eShakti order, especially since they have now opened their shipping up to Canadian orders!

eShakti - Shop Women’s designer fashion dresses, tops
Size 0-26W...

If you aren't familiar with eShakti here are a few things you should know;

almost all their design are customizable (sleeves, length, bust, height, neckline...)
sizes run from xs to 3x!
they charge Canadians the same for shipping as US residents, which includes free shipping on orders over $100 right now!!

Just reading their 'mission' makes me happy to have found this great site!
So shown in this blog are a few of the dresses I've (currently) narrowed down my selection to for the wedding.

eShakti - Shop Women’s designer fashion dresses, tops
Size 0-26W...

Here you can see one style in two different colours that I like.
I'm particularly fond of this one;

eshakti dress by fulloffabulous on Polyvore.com

eShakti - Shop Women’s designer fashion dresses, tops

Size 0-26W...
Size 0-26W...

I think this style could be flattering & I would probably get several wearings out of it;

eShakti - Shop Women’s designer fashion dresses, tops
Size 0-26W...

I adore this one & all of it's pretty detail but wonder if it will flatter my shape or be a bit too fancy;

eShakti - Shop Women’s designer fashion dresses, tops
Size 0-26W...

And finally there is this style in two different shades of blue;

Untitled by fulloffabulous on Polyvore.com

eShakti - Shop Women’s designer fashion dresses, tops
Size 0-26W...
Size 0-26W...

So that is it for this week's Shopping Cart - now all that is left to do is choose the perfect one for the wedding of the year!! Would love to hear your opinions!

Shopping Cart Saturday v.1

2011-07-09T14:45:00.000-03:00

I've been debating for a couple weeks about introducing a weekly feature to the blog. I adore blogger's songs of the week, photo diaries & recipe shares but also wanted to feature something that appealed to my specific corner of fabulous. So I introduce Shopping Cart Saturday/Sunda - a weekly feature of some of the things in my online shopping carts. Think of it as window shopping (or WindowsXP shopping... ohhhh sorry for the bad joke!)

So without anymore preamble, here are this weeks choices! I've gone with ASOS since they are still having their massive Summer Sale!

Belted Sixties Skater Dress

This dress might be too short for my 6ft tall frame but with a $68.96 reg.price on sale for $37.93...how could I not want to risk it!?!!
(the website says the model is 5'11")

Textured Waffle Shift Dress

This dress is the same price as the above but higher on my want list. I've been craving more red in my wardrobe & am picture this with nylons, tights or maybe even a dark skinny jean?
Check out the detail!

And my final gotta have in the cart are these shorts!

Belted City Short

I really don't like shorts often so the fact that I am in love with these, says a lot (like 'buy me buy me').
Reg.$52 on sale for $25... I hope to see them in my future - supplies are running low on these beauties though.

Anyways, those are some of the items haunting my shopping cart this week (wouldn't it be lovely to strike it rich?!!) but before I sign off I also want to share some of my favorite blogs who have some great weekly features. If you have a weekly feature you want me to check out - leave a link in comments & I will!

Brilliant Sugar has her Snapshots
Doll Parade has her Love Chronicles (I don't like to pick favorites but....)
Oh My heart has her Song of the Week
Maritime Shopaholic has her 3 Things

Those are a few to sink your teeth into - enjoy & see you next week!