tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2598785557999598172024-03-18T11:09:06.610+00:00Curves & CurlsHayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.comBlogger233125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-33416637126848809432019-11-05T19:58:00.001+00:002019-11-05T19:58:30.176+00:00Stepping into cooler weather with Navabi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">I really managed to extend my summer this year, well into October in Turkey, and so I came to Autumnal fashion quite late and didn't get to wear that many transitional pieces, but this beautiful tiered chiffon dress from <a href="https://www.navabi.co.uk/womens-clothing/dresses/" target="_blank">Navabi</a> was by far my favourite and will work as well in Spring as it did for Autumn.</span></div>
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When I am looking for something timeless and a little out of the ordinary, <a href="https://www.navabi.co.uk/womens-clothing/dresses/" target="_blank">Navabi</a> is where I start. Beyond fast fashion, everything about shopping at Navabi feels like a more luxe experience - from the website, to the wide range of high end brands, to the packaging. And there's a wide arrange of price points, as well as some really great sale items. </div>
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<a href="https://rstyle.me/cz-n/duq46ab79m7" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">Annalisa Chiffon Dress - Navabi (Ad)</a></div>
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The Navabi team kindly gifted me <a href="https://rstyle.me/cz-n/duq46ab79m7" target="_blank">this dress</a>, which I am absolutely in love with. I love the subdued moss green colour with its ditsy print, the soft chiffon floatiness and that tiered pleated skirt. It's got a bit of 30s vibe which I love. I got it in a size 24, which was a perfect fit and sits about mid calf on my 5'8 frame. The sleeves are softly fluted and roomy, and the fabric belt gives a little bit of definition and finishes the dress nicely.</div>
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Do you shop at Navabi? What have you been wearing for Autumn? Let me know... </div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-39826948048185963172019-07-18T21:01:00.000+01:002019-07-18T21:18:45.979+01:00Summer Look Book 2019 - Vol 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZybstZlJTpmzLD1ulYVQD08uvRTYmj2FyfcwQ2RPymwSn03b4hzk559dSp5MFrARftYL3LheJl54BJrpKpEKdH8lafHZ5T5KbYyAJNkVmIDjj7Lq7R9x8cWY366Fb0pkaUEN-hGnuYrzx/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Summer+Look+Book+UK+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZybstZlJTpmzLD1ulYVQD08uvRTYmj2FyfcwQ2RPymwSn03b4hzk559dSp5MFrARftYL3LheJl54BJrpKpEKdH8lafHZ5T5KbYyAJNkVmIDjj7Lq7R9x8cWY366Fb0pkaUEN-hGnuYrzx/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Summer+Look+Book+UK+8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Summer is here, and the fashion is bright and fabulous as always! Here's a little round up of what I've been wearing lately - both here in the UK and some of the outfits I wore in Turkey.</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Lcop5G" target="_blank">Twist Detail Pleated Kimono Midi Dress - ASOS</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Ld3wqW" target="_blank">Green Oversized Rectangular Glasses - New Look</a> (gifted) (AL)</div>
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My blogging bestie George of <a href="https://fullerfigurefullerbust.com/" target="_blank">Fuller Figure Fuller Bust</a> wore this dress on her birthday earlier this year, and when I saw it I knew I had to have it! It reminds me of my beloved Lyra dress, and I love the fresh aqua colour. I got this in a size 22 (I am currently a size 22/24) because ths fit is roomy and the skirt is flared, and the skirt falls over my knee (I am 5'8). </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2YHxsi0" target="_blank">Pure Cotton Waisted Maxi Dress - M&S</a> (gifted) (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LbVZIJ" target="_blank">Fabric Circle Tote Bag - M&S</a> (gifted) (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Ld3wqW" target="_blank">Green Oversized Rectangular Glasses - New Look</a> (gifted) (AL)</div>
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Come summer nothing beats a white cotton dress, and I just love ths broderie anglaise maxi from Marks and Spencer. The frill at the bottom is a cute little design quirk, and makes this dress feel extra prairie-like, while the straps are wide enough to easily cover a bra. I am wearing a size 24, which fits bang on for me. I think a 22 would have been a little snug.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3gZAKeh4CPFOsbiUQU3z1RC0rZBBZu6lEQoXj67xlpRwasw1S04E58xPuzopsYhkDOoNwzpy_Uy7aTpgSu5o2FS6GKLe5PAaf_8YlWwhOcf91b3BmhI-uT06TyDdNEObAXudojZiC5vZ/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Fashion+What+I+Wore+Summer+2019+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3gZAKeh4CPFOsbiUQU3z1RC0rZBBZu6lEQoXj67xlpRwasw1S04E58xPuzopsYhkDOoNwzpy_Uy7aTpgSu5o2FS6GKLe5PAaf_8YlWwhOcf91b3BmhI-uT06TyDdNEObAXudojZiC5vZ/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Fashion+What+I+Wore+Summer+2019+%25282%2529.JPG" width="542" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2S6u91b" target="_blank">Button Through Striped Maxi Dress - ASOS</a> (AL)</div>
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Belt - really old, soz</div>
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I am currently absolutely obsessed with any and everything yellow. And I love a good stripe, so this maxi was a no brainer. It's a 22, and while the fit is good, I still find that dresses that button over the bust pretty much alway gape, no matter how they fit, every time you move. My mum is way better with a needle and thread than I am so she stitched from the empire waist seam upward with tiny little stiches, and it did the trick! I paired it with a tan belt for a little more waist definition. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LcpM4k" target="_blank">Black Vest - New Look</a> (gifted) (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/30y6lXl" target="_blank">Mustard Tropical Print Shorts - New Look</a> (gifted) (AL)</div>
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Basket Bag - last season (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2G5bJsS" target="_blank">here</a>) (AL)</div>
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These shorts are my first in YEARS! I used to love shorts, but I struggled to find ones that fitted and didn't accentuate my belly. I went into the New Look flagship store on Oxford Street with George a little while ago, as the kind team there had invited us in to pick some gifted items. And this is where I miss shopping in store - because I just tried them on on a whim. I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like them. But hey! I totally loved them.I sized up to a 26 as that was the size they had and I wanted them really nice and loose and comfy, and I think the fit is perfect. I paired them here with an oversized black vest (also a size 26) and I have to be honest I just love this look! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Ldcwwf" target="_blank">Black Broderie Milk Maid Top - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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Tropical Skirt - <a href="http://bit.ly/2VU5TEW" target="_blank">ASOS Curve</a> (sold out) (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LbVZIJ" target="_blank">Fabric Circle Tote Bag - M&S</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Ld3wqW" target="_blank">Green Oversized Rectangular Glasses - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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Last summer I started wearing crop tops and this summer I am totally hooked! This cute little broderie jersey crop top is a size 22 and fits perfectly. I am going to get A LOT of wear out of it this summer. The skirt is from ASOS (was part of a co-ord set and I am kinda regretting not getting the top too now) and is a tropicl jungle dream in a generous size 24.</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2SdZVcZ" target="_blank">White Linen Look Strappy Sundress - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2S8zzc7" target="_blank">Black Oversized Rectangle Glasses - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LbVZIJ" target="_blank">Fabric Circle Tote Bag - M&S</a> (AL)</div>
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These linen look dresses from New Look are absolutely perfect in hot sticky weather. The buttons are faux, so no worries about gaping, the fabric is super breathable, and the straps are a decent width for covering your bra. New Look have done them in a load of colours and prints in both the straight and plus size sections. I have three and I am pretty sure I am going to be wearing them loads this summer. The size 22 is spot on on me. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2XAvzSP" target="_blank">Pink Check Linen Look Strappy Sundress - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2S8zzc7" target="_blank">Black Oversized Rectangle Glasses - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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Another New Look dream dress, this time in a pink, blue and lime check which is so bright and cheerful it makes me feel like a childrens TV presenter in the best possible way. Once again I am wearing a size 22, which is a great fit. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LdIckU" target="_blank">Pink Broderie Milkmaid Top - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2L8w3hr" target="_blank">Gingham Full Midi Skirt with Pockets - ASOS Curve</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="https://www.gunsnposies.co.uk/product-page/over-the-rainbow-bag" target="_blank">Over the Rainbow Bag - Guns n Posies</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2S8zzc7" target="_blank">Black Oversized Rectangle Glasses - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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One of my fave looks from my trip to Turkey, I love the pairing of this navy gingham skirt with the pale pink of the bardot broderie top. The skirt has pockets (yay!) and is super versatile as it goes with so many different things, and I also love the tie waist detail. I am wearing a size 22 in the pink top. The magnificent bag is from indi brand Guns and Posies, and is a wonderful floral rainbow of joy which also goes with everything, thanks to all the colours! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LUzwQi" target="_blank">Red Pleated Maxi Dress - New Look</a> (AL)</div>
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Basket Bag - <a href="https://www.lindex.com/uk/" target="_blank">Lindex</a> (gifted)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2S8zzc7" target="_blank">Black Oversized Rectangle Glasses - New Look</a></div>
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I adore a maxi and this statement red one is simple but fabulous.I wore it while George and I visited one of our Azure Bopo Babes, Hester, for a lovely weekend in Winchester and felt comfortable, cool and comfy. I accessorised with a basket bag - they're everywhere this summer and I love them - and a big statement elephant necklace (I've had it for years, some big earrings and big sunnies. Never knowingly understated...</div>
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<a href="https://www.ladyvlondon.com/lyra-dress-blush" target="_blank">Lyra Dress in Blush - Lady Voluptuous</a> (gifted)</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CcMillineryCreations" target="_blank">Orchid Flower Head Piece - CC Millinery Creations</a></div>
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Luxe Earrings - Wish</div>
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Gold Clutch - Dune (borrowed from lovely Hess)</div>
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While in Winchester we took a rather impromptu trip to Ladies Day at <a href="https://www.salisburyracecourse.co.uk/saturday-13th-july/" target="_blank">Salisbury Racecourse</a> - our lovely hostess Hess suggested it just the day before, and all things considered I think I scrubbed up pretty well considering the 24 hours notice. Thank goodness George had some absolutely stunning CC Millinery Creations on loan that we could wear. Definitely upped the outfit game infinitely. It matched perfectly with my new (gifted) Lyra dress in Blush The Lyra comes up big so I am wearing a size 20. I added some luxury bitch looking earrings I got on Wish and a pair of pale pink ballerina pumps, and I was good to go.<br />
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We arrived late, which meant the fancy crowd was certainly rather worse for wear (always funny) and the entire event was closed with a set from a Little Mix cover band. And then on the way to the taxi rank after our relatively sober selves got to walk the drunken stagger of very fancily dressed ladies in heels, and gentlemen all suited and booted giving up and sitting on the grass. So much unexpected last minute awesomeness and hilariousness!<br />
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So yeah, that's what I've been wearing lately. Which is your fave? Let me know in the comments...</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-18263886356718634582019-07-05T20:01:00.004+01:002019-07-09T01:00:45.003+01:00Feeling Fab in Figleaves Swim<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKXSs-6xt4qVtDFvRUn5AymqCmuRvhfD3HFnr_izDRqmxnmcrVz5-_XmByTGCYMbtMQpVFwy44fS7Z9RolCDWpXOTToB2D1vYi8RReoAQRpT-DD7XfRlNEEcF3G9Mw1k9m8C7hIK5Ce2B/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+for+Figleaves+Swim+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKXSs-6xt4qVtDFvRUn5AymqCmuRvhfD3HFnr_izDRqmxnmcrVz5-_XmByTGCYMbtMQpVFwy44fS7Z9RolCDWpXOTToB2D1vYi8RReoAQRpT-DD7XfRlNEEcF3G9Mw1k9m8C7hIK5Ce2B/s640/Curves+n+Curls+for+Figleaves+Swim+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am the ultimate water baby. As soon as I get a chance I am living my best mermaid life 24/7. What has been wonderful about my body positive journey is my renewed love of swimwear. Before the great swimsuit revolution of 2015, I mainly wore a black swimsuit I'd had for about 15 years. And the idea of buying another filled me with dread. But now I LOVE having ALL the swimwear... All the patterns, styles, colours! And one of my very fave brands for plus size swimwear is Figleaves plus collection. Check out a round up of some of the pieces I wore while in Turkey for the <a href="https://www.azurewellnessretreat.com/product/body-positive-wellness-retreat/" target="_blank">Azure BoPo Retreat</a>...</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Nw9DIK" target="_blank">Sorento Spot Ruffle Halterneck Costume in Ink</a></div>
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I just love the vintage inspired vibes of this swimsuit. A navy polka dot with a halterneck, and a little cute ruffle. It's also got a plunging neckline which makes it feel a little sexy, and is seriously comfortable to wear. Another swimsuit I think I'll be wearing a lot in the future.</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Jp9wte" target="_blank">Illusion Curve Draped Control Suit in Noble Blue</a></div>
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I love a good swimsuit. I am always pretty active in the water, so a swimsuit is a great option, particularly when jumping off boats and exploring under water. I love the draped front of this swimsuit, and the beautiful bright blue, as an alternative to the endless black swimsuits. I'm wearing a size 24, and I think I could have sized down if it wasn't for my height (5'8)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2L0CRNT" target="_blank">Monaco Buckle Bikini Top in Red</a></div>
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The best thing about bikinis is the ability to do a bit of mix and matching. I loved this red bikini top from the moment I saw it. I'm a sucker for red, and I knew it would go well with some of the plain black and plain navy bikini briefs I have. I feel like this bikini is going to be with me for a long time, as it's fab and comfy. Wearing a 22 as it's a tie bikini so adjustable, and I think my boobs would have been swimming in a 24. As my boobs are not mega big, I can still wear a halterneck without too much trouble - as long as I have my trusty <a href="https://myhalto.com/" target="_blank">Halto</a>. </div>
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So those were some of my top picks from Figleaves - what are your faves? Have you tried them for swimwear before? You aso can check out my ultimate guide to shopping for plus size swim <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2019/04/my-ultimate-guide-to-shopping-for-plus.html">here</a>.</div>
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** While this post is sponsored and the items were gifted by Figleaves, the opinions, as always, remain my own.**</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-2533140055725595242019-06-29T03:07:00.000+01:002019-06-29T03:07:31.157+01:00Real Talk: 12 tips to help you stay cool this summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's officially as hot as Hades in London. And across most of Europe. Despite the scoffs of climate change deniers (dicks), last summer was roasting, and this one looks like it's about to follow suit. So I am here to tell you how to look after yourself in this sweltering heat! Now, what gives me the credentials to dispatch this advice you ask? Well... my home town of Durban, South Africa is ridiculouisly humid hot. Like muggy, steamy heat. Pretty much all year round. And we didn't have air conditioning. So...yeah... I may as well have a doctorate in this shit.</div>
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<i>Swimsuit is Curvy Kate Wrapsody Multiway Swimsuit (gifted). <a href="http://bit.ly/2REH5Lu" target="_blank">Shop here</a>. (AL)</i></div>
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1. Drink water</h4>
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I know, I know. It's pretty obvious. But seriously, your water bottle is your best friend. Take her everywhere with you. Refill her regularly. In the hot weather you should be drinking about 2 and a half litres (10 glasses) per day. But every body is different. So look out for the common signs you're dehydrated - headache, feeling woozy, muscle cramps, not peeing very often, or really dark pee - and drink enough water to counter act them. </div>
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And make sure you get a reusable one. Disposable water bottles are meant to be disposed of by their very nature (clue's in the name) and using them for longer then you're meant to <a href="http://www.plasticfreechallenge.org/what-is-single-use-plastic" target="_blank">exposes you to worrying oestrogen mimic chemicals called PCBs</a>, plus we just don't need any more plastic in the world people.</div>
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2. Buy a fan</h4>
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Seriously, before the summer really gets into full swing buy yourself an electric, plug in fan. They are not crazy expensive (you can get a standard desk fan for under £20, in fact close to £10), they don't take up much room if you get a little one so they can be easily stored, and the last a long time. I have still got the fan I bought the first summer I moved to London - 10 years ago. </div>
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Often places like Argos and the big supermarkets are the first to sell out of fans. Or you can buy online (but Amazon puts the prices up as the temperature rises. Here's a tip - almost every high street in the country has one of those shops that sells all the random stuff - trolley bags, and cake tins, and plastic flowers, and hoola hoops. And they almost always have a stock of fans. (Shh don't tell anyone)</div>
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And while you're at it, if you have a steamy commute (shout out to the London tube crowd) get yourself a little rechargeable hand held fan. It'll change your life. You can get them at stores like Tiger, or <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/EasyAcc-Handheld-Electric-Rechargeable-Travel-Black/dp/B01FJSJ2QK/ref=sr_1_4?crid=368WBVM74ODPI&keywords=rechargeable+fan&qid=1561770194&s=gateway&sprefix=recharge%2Caps%2C191&sr=8-4" target="_blank">online</a>.</div>
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3. Wear suitable clothing</h4>
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It's hot as balls. Really nudity would be preferable, but that's frowned upon... but at least you can ensure you're not further over heating by wearing additional layers because of body hang ups. Honestly, you don't need to cover your arms, or wear full leggings in this heat. I promise you, no one will die because they were exposed to your additional flesh. They are all worrying about how to prevent themselves spontaneously combusting. The only reason you will get any odd looks is if you're in a full cardigan in this heat. </div>
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Make sure you're wearing natural fabrics where possible - cottons, linens etc, because polyester gonna make you sweat double time! And you are just going to be more comfortable if everyting is a little loose and flowing. </div>
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4. But maybe keep your bra on</h4>
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If you are large of breast, you might want to think about investing in a few cotton bralets. Nobody wants to be in a restrictive tight underwire all day, but sometimes in the heat that feeling of flesh lying on flesh can be really uncomfortable and sweaty, so this is where a bralet will come in handy - especially for flopping around at home. </div>
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5. Keep makeup to a minimum</h4>
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You just gonna sweat it off anyway... and that shit's expensive.</div>
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6. Eat ice-cream</h4>
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Obvs.</div>
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7. Sort out the chub rub</h4>
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Sweating makes problems of chub rub infinitely worse. If you're super active I would recomend a chub rub shorts brand like <a href="https://www.chaffree.com/" target="_blank">Chaffree</a> for thin, breathable shorts to be worn under dresses and skirts. Sometimes for me it's too hot for the shorts, so I prefer using <a href="https://ivyverdure.com/" target="_blank">IvyVerdure anti chaffing balm</a> (you can currently get 15% off using the code Hayley15 on their website) as I find it creates a really effective barrier as long as your not doing excessive walking or exercise. And you can always reapply if you need a little more!</div>
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8. Have a cool bath</h4>
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I cannot sleep if I am hot. And if I can't sleep I get cranky and anxious and am no fun at all. I find having a cool bath or shower just before bed is the best way to cool me down enough to sleep. If it's really hot then I won't towel dry and instead sit naked in front of the fan until I'm dry and my whole body feels cool. And if I wake up in the night, roasting again, I will just go an have another cool shower - needs must. </div>
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I also tend to add Lush's Silky Underwear powder into my personal hygeine routine in the summer - I use it under my tummy, and between my thighs because it makes me feel fresh and like it stops me from feeling all sweaty and ick in those places. </div>
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9. Wear sunscreen</h4>
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You know what would make the boiling heat worse? Sunburn! I know in places like the UK we don't get much sun, so it's tempting to lie in it all day. But seriously - wear sunscreen. When you put it on, you should apply (no less than SPF 30, and with a high UVA rating [5 stars being the best]) it 20 minutes before going in the sun, and then I would apply more when you get in the sun - just to be sure you get it everywhere. And sunscreen should really be reapplied every 2 hours. But sunscreen can't protect you completely, and it won't help with the dehydration, so if you're struggling sit in the shade!</div>
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10. Be prepared</h4>
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I've already mentioned your new bestie, a reusable waterbottle, and your hand held rechargable fan. Carrying both helps keep my public transport anxiety in hot weather from getting too overwhelming. There are a couple of other things you might want to chuck in your hand bag too - in most chemists like Boots and Superdrug, you can get spring water spray - I tend to like the one Evian does, and the one Avene does. They can be a little on the pricey side, but they last quite a while, and are so refreshing when you're all hot and sweaty. Particularly if you follow it up with a blast from your fan. And bring tissues. A fun side effect of one of the anti depressants I was on a couple of years ago was excessive facial sweating (sexy) and it still happens from time to time, so a tissue to mop my brow is useful.</div>
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11. Rest</h4>
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Seriously. Rest. The heat takes it out of you. There is a reason for siestas in Spain. Don't expect to be able to go at the same pace as usual, or get as much done. Your body will need rest, and you should let it. A little nap during the hottest part of the day (if possible) or when you get home from work is totally encouraged!</div>
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12. A special note for my fellow anti depressant takers </h4>
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This is totally ridiculous, but a couple of weeks ago I found out just how much of an impact my anti depressants (sertraline) have on my experience of heat. Literally no one, not a single health care professional, had ever brought this to my attention. I had realised that other drugs I had been on before had given me a kind of sun allergy, which meant I got a sort of sunburn rash when I was in the heat too long, but that went away when I changed my medicine. But it turns out that many anti depressants make regulating our body temperature really hard to do, and as a result we are likely to get dehydrated quicker, battle with extreme temperatures, get headaches, have blurred vision, feel disorientated and weak etc. Kinda some important stuff to know, don't ya think? And definitely things I have experienced and just blamed on getting older, being fatter, not drinking enough water etc. You can read more about this here, but remember to take care of yourself extra specially, k? This is gonna be tough - make allowences. </div>
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That ended up being longer than I anticipated, but hopefully it helps! And if you have any tips or tricks, do leave them in the comments below. Stay cool babies <3</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-45245374864877808182019-04-18T12:27:00.002+01:002019-04-26T13:12:26.952+01:00My Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Plus Size Swimwear like a BOSS<div style="text-align: center;">
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Summer is coming, I can feel it (I mean everyone can, this bloody country is finally starting to thaw) and with it comes holiday plans (yay) and swimwear shopping. For a lot of plus size babes this can be a bit of a source of consternation - swimwear has a special power to make us feel bad about our bodies. Mainly because we have to hear all the gross, destructive bullshit about bikini bodies (reminder - to get a bikini body all you have to do is put a bikini on your body ffs) and because for a long time the options for plus size women were really shite. But, horray! No longer! We now have lots of options and much swim fabulousness. So let me help you navigate this lycra labyrith with my ultimate plus size babe swim wear shopping guide!<br />
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Shopping for many plus size women can be a daunting prospect at the best of times. But add in the pressure of swimwear and it can turn into a bit of a nightmare. I loathe changing rooms, so my first tip is to order online. Find sites that have easy return policies (like <a href="http://bit.ly/2V16ljt" target="_blank">ASOS</a>) and order lots of swimwear to try all at the same time. This way you get to try things on in the comfort of your own home. No tiny changing rooms, no hideous lighting, no rush.<br />
Try to get buying your swimwear as early before you holiday as possible too. Firstly, there is nothing worse then feeling you <i>have</i> to buy something because you need something, but not actually liking it. So give your time yo find some pieces you love. And secondly, retailers get swimwear in store ridiculously early. So the earlier you get started, the more likely you are to get the best bits and find them in your size!<br />
Once your picks arrive, ideally do your trying on when you have a bit of time. Wrestling yourself in and out of swimwear can be sweaty, exhausting and annoying - so having to rush is really not great. Just feeling relaxed and comfortable may change how you feel about the pieces you are trying on. Don't forget to try them on with pants underneath (hygiene first people), and DON'T forget to return the ones you don't like (guilty!).<br />
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<b>Try things you wouldn't usually</b><br />
The joy of shopping online (particularly from somewhere like <a href="http://bit.ly/2KLKdp7" target="_blank">Figleaves</a> or <a href="http://bit.ly/2KLKg4h" target="_blank">ASOS</a>) is that you have SO much more choice than in store. So my next tip is try things you wouldn't usually! One of the things I love about our <a href="https://www.azurewellnessretreat.com/product/body-positive-wellness-retreat/" target="_blank">Azure Bopo Retreats</a> is that I get to see lots of plus women in swimwear - and it opens me up to all sorts of styles I might not have tried before. Last summer one of lush ladies was wearing a swimsuit with a plunging neckline, which I just would never have considered with boobs over a certain size. But she looked SO damn hot, I had to try one for myself, and I am sold. I am going to be doing ALL the plunging this summer. So if you are ordering swimwear, throw a couple of wild cards in there - you might be surprised what you end up keeping!<br />
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Taking the plunge: <a href="http://bit.ly/2KIIkcO" target="_blank">Tuscany Low Cut Swimsuit (similar</a>) (AL) - gifted</div>
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<b>Invest in a good swim bra</b><br />
If you've got a serious bust on you, you're going to want a serious bikini top. Let's be honest, those little triangles look cute, but they're not doing much to support the gals, and you'll probably spend your all holiday making sure nothing has popped out. What you need is something with the same sort of engineering that goes into a bra. So I tend to stick with lingerie brands I trust for my bikinis as well. My faves are <a href="http://bit.ly/2V9Fb9W" target="_blank">Curvy Kate</a> and <a href="http://bit.ly/2VbLSbB" target="_blank">Elomi</a> (ALs). As I wear their bras I know what size I need which makes online shopping pretty easy. Both brands do a variety of basics and more interesting styles and prints, so there is something for everyone. They can be quite pricey, but it's one of those really worthwhile investments, because looked after well they will last a very long time. The joy of a good swim bra is it can be worn under swimsuits and tankinis for additional support. If you're on a budget then investing in one or two basic styles / colours is all you need.<br />
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Supportive swim bras, both last season, both from <a href="http://bit.ly/2V9Fb9W" target="_blank">Curvy Kate</a> (AL) - gifted</div>
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<b>You don't have to wear a bikini!</b><br />
Adding bikinis to my swimwear repertoir after years of feeling I couldn't wear one felt totally symbolic. However, I still love a full swimsuit mainly for practical purposes. I am really active in the water (living that mermaid life) and when I head to Turkey to host the <a href="https://www.azurewellnessretreat.com/product/body-positive-wellness-retreat/" target="_blank">Azure BoPo retreats</a> this summer I get to spend time diving off boats and exploring sea caves, and a swimsuit is just more comfortable for that. I still want to look chic AF, so I love a black swimsuit that has something a little statement about it. These were my picks last summer -<br />
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Something a little bit sexy: <a href="http://bit.ly/2KIIkcO" target="_blank">Tuscany Low Cut Swimsuit (similar)</a> (AL) - gifted</div>
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Best for those who don't need too much support in the boob area, like me :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5EypCGNt97lELNbuOn-YByy1BW1uQmzMLS4ytSTmSGjEytSMaN57Ise-TVMmr91jnwUa5cf74Z6qFsQXMQOZE3bNBPzuEw6YGSjsF77YwB0AtWb4yj19MixsGj1zWL0iXMKDvgZ75wuw/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Swmwear+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5EypCGNt97lELNbuOn-YByy1BW1uQmzMLS4ytSTmSGjEytSMaN57Ise-TVMmr91jnwUa5cf74Z6qFsQXMQOZE3bNBPzuEw6YGSjsF77YwB0AtWb4yj19MixsGj1zWL0iXMKDvgZ75wuw/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Swmwear+%25281%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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A vintage nod: <a href="https://www.figleaves.com/uk/figleaves-icon-spot-mesh-underwired-shaping-halter-black-swimsuit-d-g-cup/FIG-003532.html?dwvar_FIG-003532_color=738587&cgid=plus-size-swimwear#start=2" target="_blank">Icon Spot Mesh Halterneck Swimsuit</a> (AL) - gifted</div>
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That little polka dot mesh halterneck detail is everything!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1Diwt4FH76ib3Rj9kXkWw7unxz8tdaY_SQSrKdZXlrFfkVADmvMv9QIJj9FLIRS_V-uT-eUA2NOsxLciRn1Rxl_VE8glMWBHauUdCq7J7uMIbSG3Wuhiq17DnXxGCCVck7Z6KigNP-06/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252818%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja1Diwt4FH76ib3Rj9kXkWw7unxz8tdaY_SQSrKdZXlrFfkVADmvMv9QIJj9FLIRS_V-uT-eUA2NOsxLciRn1Rxl_VE8glMWBHauUdCq7J7uMIbSG3Wuhiq17DnXxGCCVck7Z6KigNP-06/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252818%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wear it many ways! Similar - <a href="http://bit.ly/2V2z9YM" target="_blank">Rhapsody Multiway Swimsuit</a> (AL)<br />
This swimsuit was a revelation last season because you can wear it so many ways. If you're on a budget, this is basically perfect because it gives you loads of different looks. So glad Curvy Kate have brought their amazing engineering skills to creating this beauty, that's going to be a great investment piece.<br />
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<b>Do mix and match</b><br />
Once you've invested in your key swim bras you can decide to buy the matching briefs, or you can go wild with all sorts of fun bottoms - here engineering isn't nearly as important so your briefs can really be from anywhere (cheap options from ASOS, Forever 21 etc are great). Some of my mix and match bikini combos are some of my faves. Below I am wearing some high waisted Elomi bottoms (I love these! I have several pairs) with a fringed bikini top I found for cheap cheap on eBay, with a Boohoo coverup. As I have a smaller bust it means I can get away with wearing tops that aren't always the most supportive.<br />
If you're keen on mixing and matching then choosing a specific palatte or theme can be helpful. For example there are almost always nautical themed swim goodies, so you might decide to buy some nautical striped cuteness, then you can add in block colours like navy, red or white - which will be really cute to wear together and will mean that as you add to your collection each season you will have more and more options. Smart shopping!<br />
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<b>If you're on a budget</b><br />
If you're on a budget - I feel ya! Holidays can be expensive at the best of times, and swimwear is kinda crazy expensive for what it is. Already, by mixing and matching (as I suggested above) you can make sure you are mixing some cheaper pieces in so that ou're not paying over the odds for some lycra pants! Look at what places like Forever 21, ASOS, New Look and Primark have on offer. For the cheaper retailers make sure you get in early though - because they sell out quick.<br />
Swimwear is also something that often doesn't get a lot of use, so places like eBay and Facebook selling groups can be great places to pick up bargains of never worn or barely worn pieces. If you are wanting to buy swim bras then knowing your size will help. On eBay you can even set notifications, so you'll be told whenever someone lists the brand and size you are looking for.<br />
Sites like <a href="https://www.brastop.com/" target="_blank">Bra Stop</a> sell old stock at really good prices, so you can visit them to find last year's styles of your favourite brands. I don't think swimwear is particularly trend led anyway, and if it's new to you then it's new!<br />
Remember, the end of summer is great for sales and probably the best time to buy your next season's swimwear. So late summer, get on those sales and pick up some bargains for your late season holiday, or for the next year.<br />
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Hope you find the helpful! If you have any other hints or tips, do let me know below! Happy holidays!<br />
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<i style="background-color: white; font-family: "Maven Pro"; font-size: 13.2px;">**Some items in this post were gifted and have been marked as such. This post contains Affiliate Links (marked as AL) - this means that I will make a small commission on any sales, however this cost is not paid by you. I include affiliate links as it is part of the way I make my living, and can continue to keep my blog running**</i><br />
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-56148004297240603062019-01-30T10:00:00.000+00:002019-01-30T10:00:00.440+00:00My Winter Skincare Faves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70UWht8Cku1FMLTthUmSPfHH5_9yM5oik930GIA2aJHBqJnbN3Rp2QSIPWeNTbxWW56Vsb8WYNbAoHetHhU9ef2jyom5AV5JuRmejYmzwwjM0mLnuEgSXLU9o6MtxaiQdV1DBaP7m2Joa/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Skin+Care+Routine+Winter+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1425" data-original-width="1600" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70UWht8Cku1FMLTthUmSPfHH5_9yM5oik930GIA2aJHBqJnbN3Rp2QSIPWeNTbxWW56Vsb8WYNbAoHetHhU9ef2jyom5AV5JuRmejYmzwwjM0mLnuEgSXLU9o6MtxaiQdV1DBaP7m2Joa/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Skin+Care+Routine+Winter+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't know about you, bu my skin is a completely different beast in winter to what it is in summer! I grew up in a country where the climate varied very little year round, so when I moved to the UK ten years ago I was shocked by the differences in my skin depending on the season. This year my skin went a bit haywire as we entered into Autumn, and so I reached out to people online to see what they used to take care of their winter skin, and I also went back to some of my favourites, and I have come up with a selection of products that have kept my skin pretty happy all winter long! </div>
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First things first - apparently you have to actually use these products for them to work, lol! I know, I know - shocker! Thing is when I am not feeling my best, fully following my skin care regime tends to go by the wayside. I can always be relied on to slather on moisturiser because my skin feels uncomfortable without it, but the rest of the fanciness - not so much! But when I get into a good skincare routine I find the ritual calming and a really good form of self care for me. So yeah - tip number one is use the stuff! And number 2 - hydration! I am a water fiend, but like everyone else my water consumption goes down in the winter and my skin feels it. So stay hydrated. I take a water bottle with my everywhere, which helps with this.</div>
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My skin is combination - with the oiliness centered on my nose and in the crevises on either side. The rest of my skin is dry, and in the winter my forehead and cheeks and lips get partiularly dry and can sometimes flake. My skin and eyes are also sensitive . When I am low my ecsema tends to flare up, and while it is always worst on my upper arms, sometimes my face suffers too - on either side of my nose and strangely behind my ears. For this reason I tend to use pretty pure products where I can. Nothing too harsh, or with artificial perfumes. Gentle is key. </div>
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I divide my skincare products into two categories - Cleansers and Moisturisers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJCHObOh_SIwWJiBtzcar6cvMB8YqTqtqp4y4ghPLzWeNLkXY5TMNpz9DXWgN3zg10e4gjNBtAs-5wJ-_vQluHzFibkIbq3nKb9tGekgrQLJRe9drh3i_aSNXUVc_f7r91lQHOj-HyNjEh/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Skin+Care+Routine+Winter+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1504" data-original-width="1600" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJCHObOh_SIwWJiBtzcar6cvMB8YqTqtqp4y4ghPLzWeNLkXY5TMNpz9DXWgN3zg10e4gjNBtAs-5wJ-_vQluHzFibkIbq3nKb9tGekgrQLJRe9drh3i_aSNXUVc_f7r91lQHOj-HyNjEh/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Skin+Care+Routine+Winter+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cleansers, Clockwise: </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2HCdz84" target="_blank">Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="https://www.boots.com/garnier-skin-active-micellar-cleansing-gel-wash-200ml-10226319-1" target="_blank">Garnier Micellar Gel Wash for Sensitive Skin</a></div>
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<a href="https://uk.lush.com/products/9-5" target="_blank">Lush 9 to 5 Cleanser</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2FY4jsW" target="_blank">Pixi Glow Mud Cleanser</a> (AL)</div>
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Not pictured - <a href="http://bit.ly/2Wsv12c" target="_blank">Nip+Fab Glycolic Scrub Fix</a> (AL)</div>
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Cleansers - </div>
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My cleanser needs are sort of all or nothing. Day to day, as I don't have an office job currently, I don't wear makeup most days. So I just need a quick cleanse most evening - just something gentle that will remove any of the days dirt (which living in a big city is always more than you'd like). For this purpose a lovely follower recommended Lush's 9 to 5 cleanser. I mean anything with a Dolly Parton song for a name is immediately going to pique my interest, obvs. But this gentle cleansing cream is wonderful. It's got moisturising almond milk and calming dove orchids listed in its ingredients and I find it great for when I have a ecsema flare up. On days when I've worn no makeup I just use a little of this (a little goes a long way I find) on a muslin cloth or a cotton pad, and wipe away the day - simples! </div>
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When I have been wearing makeup, I rely on a double cleanse to remove all traces of makeup from my skin. I again use the 9 to 5 cleanser - as a gentle makeup remover. I get off as much as I can, before going in with warm water and <a href="https://www.boots.com/garnier-skin-active-micellar-cleansing-gel-wash-200ml-10226319-1" target="_blank">Garnier Micellar Gel Wash for Sensitive Skin</a>. I find a foaming cleanser just makes me feel super clean, and gets rid of the last traces of makeup. Again, this is a really gentle product, and might not suit for people with really oily skin, but it totally works for me. </div>
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A few times a week, in the shower or bath, I will use <a href="http://bit.ly/2FY4jsW" target="_blank">Pixi Glow Mud Cleanser</a> (AL) - this mud cleanser gives a really deep clean, and almost feels like it does a bit of the job of a mud mask. I have quite large, deep pores, so I find this is really good for keeping them unclogged. </div>
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Once I've done the initial cleanse I follow with wiping my face with one of the <a href="http://bit.ly/2HCdz84" target="_blank">Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads</a> (AL). This is honestly one of the most **miraculous products** I've found for keeping my skin happy - year round. These pads work as mild daily exfoliation, keeping skin smooth and bright. I actually wasn't aware of how much they were doing to keep my skin looking delish, until I saw the same MUA twice in two weeks. The first time I had run out of my pads, and hadn't been using them for a couple of weeks. Then in the time between seeing her I had bought some more and had been using them for a about a week. I didn't tell her this, but she couldn't believe the difference in my skin. The makeup went on better, my skin felt better, and she was amazed, and actually suggested I write this post. So yeah, I find these to be absolutely amazing. I also occasionally use their <a href="http://bit.ly/2Wsv12c" target="_blank">Nip+Fab Glycolic Scrub Fix</a> (AL) as an additional exfoliater, which I have been using for about 18 months now and also swear by. I will say be careful with glycolic products - this is an acid and different skins react differently. While the two products mentioned above work on my sensitive skin with no trouble, I bought the Nip+Fab Glycolic Liquid Fix Glow in 6%, and after using it depsite making my skin soft and smooth, it went <i>really</i> red and hot for at least an hour or two afterwards - which worried me a bit. So skin patch testing first is a good idea.</div>
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Moisturisers, clockwise - </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blistex-Daily-Conditioning-Treatment-Lips/dp/B00392FPJ2" target="_blank">Blistex Daily Conditioning Treatment for Lips</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2FY4jsW" target="_blank">Pixi Rose Ceramide Cream</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="https://www.boots.com/garnier-moisture-bomb-tissue-mask-10216769" target="_blank">Garnier Moisture Bomb Hydrating Face Sheet Mask</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Bag1N4" target="_blank">The Ordinary Moisturizing Factors + HA</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2sXgFsM" target="_blank">Pixi Jasmine Oil Blend</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2sV5ktu" target="_blank">Pixi Rose Oil Blend</a> (AL)</div>
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<a href="https://uk.lush.com/products/celestial" target="_blank">Lush Celestial Moisturiser</a></div>
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Not pictured - <a href="http://bit.ly/2sSuhWn" target="_blank">The Ordinary Hyauluronic Acid 2% + B5</a> (AL)</div>
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Moisturisers - </div>
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I am a moisturiser fiend! My mum got me using moisturiser twice daily since I was about 12, and it is one of the rituals I cannot do without. I have used all sorts of moisturisers and I truly don't believe price has anything to do with efficacy. The older I get the more I see the importance of serums and oils for deeper moisturisation, which I now use in conjunction with my surface moisturisers. These serums and oils are what stop my skin from dehydrating in the winter, particularly with the harsh cold winds outside and the drying central heating inside.</div>
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For day to day moisturisation, I tend to use The Ordinary. You may well have heard of the cult beauty brand, which is incredily reasonably priced and doesn't come with any unbelievable promises, instead it tells you scientifically exactly what each product does. My two must have products are the <a href="http://bit.ly/2sSuhWn" target="_blank">The Ordinary Hyauluronic Acid 2% + B5</a> (AL) and <a href="http://bit.ly/2Bag1N4" target="_blank">The Ordinary Moisturizing Factors + HA</a> (AL). The hyauloronic serum is the cheapest of its kind on the market, and is so popular it is frequently sold out, so I regularly by several bottles. This is a **miracle product** as well in my opinion. I use a dropper full on my face every morning and often in the evenings, and it boosts my skins hydration majorly. I live it on for a few minutes before I put my Ordinary moisturiser on top. The Ordinary are clear that this is a surface moisturiser, and will give you that supple feeling, without actually sorting the root causes of skin dehydration and dryness. I like to wear quite a bit of moisturiser, so this cheap, fragrance free, simple product works well for me. I also keep a little tub of <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blistex-Daily-Conditioning-Treatment-Lips/dp/B00392FPJ2" target="_blank">Blistex Daily Conditioning Treatment for Lips</a> on the side table next to my sofa. I use it regularly because in winter my lips are prone to chapping which drives me crazy. </div>
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A couple time a week, particularly after a day or two of wearing heavy makeup, after cleansing I break out the oils. At the moment I am really enjoying the oils from Pixi - the <a href="http://bit.ly/2sXgFsM" target="_blank">Pixi Jasmine Oil Blend</a> (AL) and the <a href="http://bit.ly/2sV5ktu" target="_blank">Pixi Rose Oil Blend</a> (AL). Both of these were gifted to me in gift bags at events, and I have reordered them both from my own pocket since. I favour the jasmine oil when my skin is a little dull and lacking radiance, and the rose oil when it needs a deep moisture boost. I will only use these at night, and not if I am going out or wearing makeup as they are oils, so they do make you look oily (shocker). And on top, once they have been given some time to soak in, I favour using the <a href="http://bit.ly/2FY4jsW" target="_blank">Pixi Rose Ceramide Cream</a> (AL) which is actually a light gel formula, with a lovely fresh fragrance. And is nice and light over the oil. </div>
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When my ecsema flares up - as outlined earlier, usually behind my ears and on either side of my nose - I use <a href="https://uk.lush.com/products/celestial" target="_blank">Lush Celestial Moisturiser</a>. It is moisturising and soothing at the same time, and takes the discomfort out of those patches really quickly. It also forms a barrier on the skin to prevent further moisture loss. </div>
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When I fancy a bit of pampering, or before a photoshoot, I love a moisturising sheet mask. The first I tried, and still my favourite is the <a href="https://www.boots.com/garnier-moisture-bomb-tissue-mask-10216769" target="_blank">Garnier Moisture Bomb Hydrating Face Sheet Mask</a>. I love the smell of it (reminds me of a particular ice lolly from when I was growing up) and I feel like I can feel my face sucking up all that good stuff. Afterwards my skin always feels beautifully soft. And while it makes me look like Hannibal Lecter, it always feels rather pampering. </div>
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So that's it - my winter skin care faves. I hope you find it helpful. I would love to know if you would like more posts like this, to add to what I already talk about on the blog. And please do leave your winter skin faves below... </div>
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<i>**Some items in this post were gifted and have been marked as such. However, the opinions in this post are all my own, from lengthy use. This post contains Affiliate Links (marked as AL) - this means that I will make a small commission on any sales, however this cost is not paid by you. I include affiliate links as it is part of the way I make my living, and can continue to keep my blog running**</i></div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-21910575381070651882019-01-08T20:15:00.000+00:002019-01-08T20:15:02.361+00:00Getting Meshy: Lovedrobe Embroidered Mesh Dress<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlmstxwgmDId2ZN24vh1tfliLasFNo_VpesaQafiPVEGn9FzvjgrYe8PdmxipCU56JEsQlkhOOLuDuaipSXTfgKjJRhy-giiTIZA1IPJsQqpEoBbKgP4M1p6GaD0K-Qr2877KYDX4Si7p/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+Lovedrobe+Mesh+Dress+Plus+Size+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlmstxwgmDId2ZN24vh1tfliLasFNo_VpesaQafiPVEGn9FzvjgrYe8PdmxipCU56JEsQlkhOOLuDuaipSXTfgKjJRhy-giiTIZA1IPJsQqpEoBbKgP4M1p6GaD0K-Qr2877KYDX4Si7p/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+Lovedrobe+Mesh+Dress+Plus+Size+%25285%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After all the glitz ang colour of the festive season I often find myself returning to black in January. I've always loved some black in my wardrobe, and I find it easy to wear with my colouring. Plus it's the month of lazing and lounging (well for me it is anyway) so comfort in dressing is a must. I recently chose this Black Embroidered Mesh dress from Lovedrobe because I love the dobby mesh overlay combined with the embroidery, and because it's super comfy over a pair of leggings with some ankle boots, but it still looks like you made an effort - my favourite kind of dressing! </div>
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<a href="https://www.lovedrobe.co.uk/clothing/dresses/" target="_blank">Black Mesh Dress with Embroidery - Lovedrobe</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.voodoovixen.co.uk/red-heart-velvet-cross-body-handbag.html" target="_blank">Velvet Heart Bag - Voodoo Vixen</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2SJM9hw" target="_blank">Embroidered Boots - Evans</a></div>
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As always with Lovedrobe, I sized up. I am wearing a size 26 here (I usually wear a 22/24) and I think the fit is just right. I love the sheer sleeves - giving me coverage, but the stretch means theyre not tight or uncomfortable. I also love the sheer fabric because it just gives the whole look a floaty feel, that I adore - you know I love me some netting and tulle! The dress hits me about mid thigh (I'm 5'8) so I would definitely always be wearing this baby with leggings or heavy tights. </div>
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Here I paired it with a sensational red velvet bag, and some embroidered boots that echo the embroidery on the dress itself. I love that it's an easy to wear, super comfy outfit that's versatile - I wore it over to see my little nephew and was comfy playing with him on the floor, and then later went to dinner. Yes! </div>
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What are you wearing this Jaunuary?</div>
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** While this post is sponsored and the items were gifted by Lovedrobe, the opinions, as always, remain my own.**</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-7375667497554521772018-12-20T23:47:00.002+00:002018-12-20T23:47:32.016+00:00Need a Last Minute Christmas Gift? Try Some Nightwear from Camille<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDm113MR-CYVtVBmYPgmPwf4DC2jBeIM36YwFrHcPDMJ1EOeVX_geySQGxXWlGpDe2kasTKuQ5klAG7kwTCWAJ5Jl3kYkYw7piezhrdoCrRJuS3NTdoAHvSzSKWMyeozmNYKUle76L8yqj/s1600/camille-luxurious-ruby-red-full-length-satin-pyjama-set-p2788-16194_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="520" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDm113MR-CYVtVBmYPgmPwf4DC2jBeIM36YwFrHcPDMJ1EOeVX_geySQGxXWlGpDe2kasTKuQ5klAG7kwTCWAJ5Jl3kYkYw7piezhrdoCrRJuS3NTdoAHvSzSKWMyeozmNYKUle76L8yqj/s640/camille-luxurious-ruby-red-full-length-satin-pyjama-set-p2788-16194_medium.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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One of my fave things about Christmas Eve is new pjs! In my family we usually open them on Christmas Eve - so I am always on the look out for cute sets this time of year. And they make wonderful last minute presents - because who doesn't love jammies! And excellent news - if you order from Camille this week and chose next day delivery you can get them before Christmas!So I've saved you the hassle and picked some of my faves below...</div>
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There is something beautfully indulgent and Christmassy about these <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/luxurious-ruby-red-full-length-satin-pyjama-set-p2788" target="_blank">deep red satin pyjamas</a>. Such a luxurious and lovely gift.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPVzE1PxTC54HQi4YDgk2C9BkrITgHYS3ARbuCs5l61afaYt0zwyaxRV7f-WAMDC-2NqDiPh7HPFwKv4f7FnVoDDhrnnZ52K0LHACvQZoMf_GUj2u-cliDi4HvGtHm4rz1xq_T-Mbmm65l/s1600/camille-luxury-pink-lace-satin-chemise-p2834-16885_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="520" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPVzE1PxTC54HQi4YDgk2C9BkrITgHYS3ARbuCs5l61afaYt0zwyaxRV7f-WAMDC-2NqDiPh7HPFwKv4f7FnVoDDhrnnZ52K0LHACvQZoMf_GUj2u-cliDi4HvGtHm4rz1xq_T-Mbmm65l/s640/camille-luxury-pink-lace-satin-chemise-p2834-16885_medium.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Personally I love a nightie, and I am a sucker for satin. I like the longer length as it's a little more demure, and would be a great option for older relatives you might have to buy for. I prefer the longer length myself because when I am not in my usual scruffy PJs, it's fun to be a little more glamorous... Again this <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/luxury-pink-lace-satin-chemise-p2834" target="_blank">satin nightie</a> is available in an array of colours.</div>
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I do rather love a <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/womens-purple-luxury-satin-dressing-gown-p2904" target="_blank">satin dressing gown</a>, because they make me feel like a luxury bitch and they work in summer and winter. I also love that this is all Cadbury's purple so you are sure to feel like the sweetest treat! And it comes in an array of colours if you're not one for purple... (also available in plus sizes). </div>
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And sometimes you need a warm snuggly robe. I love this <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/luxurious-supersoft-ivory-honeycomb-bathrobe-p3305" target="_blank">ivory honeycomb dressing gown</a>, and I think it would make such a lovely gift. It's also available in an on trend <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/luxurious-supersoft-grey-honeycomb-bathrobe-p3306" target="_blank">grey</a> and <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/luxurious-supersoft-burgundy-honeycomb-bathrobe-p3304" target="_blank">burgandy</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/womens-luxury-brown-snow-leopard-print-hooded-all-in-one-onesie-pyjama-p1630" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="520" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkCFnVjOqC4MqARDLml7tlXkcxURiGsfk70mAyEJyUxT6qBu0UBLwuPMGfsK8vEVEMzDJ2esfU8JQWfV6K9u3blPmOaj8Q7cckKqeLYnytEnVXelAMPcxUib-BnDPb3c1EmChF37L9jl4/s640/camille-womens-luxury-brown-snow-leopard-print-hooded-all-in-one-onesie-pyjama-p1630-11446_medium.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Some may think they're a bit passe, but I love a onesie - they're cute and snuggly and this one is in <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/womens-luxury-brown-snow-leopard-print-hooded-all-in-one-onesie-pyjama-p1630" target="_blank">leopard print</a> which is totally my current obsession. And good news - this bad boy comes in sizes up to a 24. </div>
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Dudes are notoriously hard to buy for... But who doesn't want a new <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/mens-blue-supersoft-fleece-grey-navy-check-shawl-collar-bathrobe-p2981" target="_blank">dressing gown</a>? Warm, snuggly, and a lumberjack worthy print! Check out the website for more robes and men's pyjamas.</div>
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Just a little selection of some of my favourite festive PJs from the <a href="https://www.camille.co.uk/" target="_blank">Camille website</a>. They have lots of other lovely bits on the website, and if you order before the end of Friday you will get your parcels before Christmas! Yaaay! See anything you like? Happy shopping! </div>
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** While this post is sponsored and the items were gifted by Lovedrobe, the opinions, as always, remain my own.**</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-42260694609469902982018-12-20T22:45:00.000+00:002018-12-20T22:45:20.798+00:00Last Minute Stocking Stuffers with Attitude Clothing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love creative present buying. I love taking time to buy something unusual or that really speaks to me for a particular person. But in all the din and present mania of Christmas I sometimes find my creativity getting a little frazzled, and I run out of ideas. When I started looking over on the <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/" target="_blank">Attitude clothing website</a> however I found that they do waaaay more than just clothes, and they have loads of kooky and cool gifts if you're looking from something a little different, or if you have some last minute stocking stuffers to get. AND especially for fellow procrastinators - if you order before the end of Friday, and choose guranteed next day delivery you'll get your bits before Christmas! Yaaay! </div>
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<a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/attitude-clothing-pizza-slice-hanging-decoration-p23838-35943_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/attitude-clothing-pizza-slice-hanging-decoration-p23838-35943_image.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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I love collecting unusual and fun decorations for my tree. Every year when I pull them out I remember where they came from or who gave them to me. If you've got a pizza obsessed hard to buy for person (I have a couple) this <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/attitude-clothing-pizza-slice-hanging-decoration-p23838" target="_blank">pizza slice bauble</a> is perfect!</div>
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<a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/attitude-clothing-small-gold-poly-skull-candle-p21830-30570_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="330" height="640" src="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/attitude-clothing-small-gold-poly-skull-candle-p21830-30570_medium.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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I adore this <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/attitude-clothing-small-gold-poly-skull-candle-p21830" target="_blank">gold faceted skull candle</a>. Something small, and perfectly formed. The perfect stocking stuffer.</div>
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I am LIVING for this <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/nemesis-now-spirit-board-jewellery-box-p14886" target="_blank">Ouija board jewelery box</a>. Perfect for anyone with a slightly off beat, witchy style (in fact I might add it to my own Christmas list!)</div>
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<a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/extreme-largeness-we-are-the-weirdos-mister-mug-p23796-35856_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/extreme-largeness-we-are-the-weirdos-mister-mug-p23796-35856_image.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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Perfect for your favourite <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/extreme-largeness-we-are-the-weirdos-mister-mug-p23796" target="_blank">weirdo</a>! </div>
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<a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/attitude-clothing-medium-heart-letter-board-p24374-37174_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/attitude-clothing-medium-heart-letter-board-p24374-37174_image.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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For those who like things a little cutesy... How adorable is this <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/attitude-clothing-medium-heart-letter-board-p24374" target="_blank">heart letter board</a>?</div>
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<a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/extreme-largeness-fuck-off-rainbow-vinyl-sticker-p24606-37694_image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/images/extreme-largeness-fuck-off-rainbow-vinyl-sticker-p24606-37694_image.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
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For the feisty ones... <a href="https://www.attitudeclothing.co.uk/extreme-largeness-fuck-off-rainbow-vinyl-sticker-p24606" target="_blank">Fuck Off Sticker</a>.</div>
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See anything you like? Go have a browse and I'm betting you'll end up with a full basket...</div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">** While this post is sponsored and the items were gifted by Attitude Clothing, the opinions and choices, as always, remain my own.**</span></div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-88660501432099375752018-12-09T21:07:00.000+00:002018-12-09T21:07:14.911+00:00Twinkle Twinkle Little Star: Lovedrobe Star Print Skater Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyEZIwqZK5n_3Ho1RUTOzW72eG8MCBAt-Fje4GLXx1SE0T-5u36Tp9TJLLmAc3JEeR0GWaTNlj3qzcjkJb3-ZASm8zJi__OobegDO0We3RiVk5IgPEoZd3iOxzxJhQkHGZ2AbB7EjReXY/s1600/_MG_2364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyEZIwqZK5n_3Ho1RUTOzW72eG8MCBAt-Fje4GLXx1SE0T-5u36Tp9TJLLmAc3JEeR0GWaTNlj3qzcjkJb3-ZASm8zJi__OobegDO0We3RiVk5IgPEoZd3iOxzxJhQkHGZ2AbB7EjReXY/s640/_MG_2364.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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While the whole season is filled with sequins, sparkles, faux fur and fanciness - some of my favourite things, of course - I always have something special to wear on actual Christmas day. Christmas is a dress up occasion in our house - an excuse for a new dress (like I need one!) so from Autumn I am on the look out for the perfect dress. And this year this prettiness from <a href="https://www.lovedrobe.co.uk/trends/festive-partywear/koko-silver-star-print-skater-dress-pl3-10-03-by-koko-color-black" target="_blank">Lovedrobe</a> caught my eye early on. </div>
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<a href="https://www.lovedrobe.co.uk/trends/festive-partywear/koko-silver-star-print-skater-dress-pl3-10-03-by-koko-color-black" target="_blank">Koko Silver Star Print Skater Dress - Lovedrobe</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.voodoovixen.co.uk/black-faux-fur-shawl.html" target="_blank">Black Faux Fur Shrug</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2RMk7S7" target="_blank">Purple Metallic Heels</a></div>
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While I want to look a little dressed up on Christmas, I also want to be comfortable so that's my first consideration. The stretch underlayer of this dress is totally comfy while the under bust design means nothing it binding or tight. The tulle layers float over the top giving it a slightly romantic look, and also meaning no tightness (let's be honest, Christmas is a lot about the eating!). I adore the little foil silver star pattern - it's what gives the dress a Christmassy feeling, and means it twinkles beautifully in the light. But it's not so obviously Christmassy that you feel it can only be worn for festive vibes - I find Lovedrobe comes up quite small, so here I am wearing a 26 (my usual size is a 22/24), so remember to size up! </div>
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I decided to accessorise with a black faux fur shawl - just adding to that overall luxury look, and because it makes a nice change from a cardigan. Plus I can shrug it off when it gets too toasty. I also added these gorgeous purple metallic shoes, for a little colour pop and my #elfie clutch (from last year) because you know I love some silly! </div>
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What do you wear for Christmas day? Have you had a look at <a href="https://www.lovedrobe.co.uk/trends/festive-partywear/" target="_blank">Lovedrobe's festive offering</a>? Let me know... </div>
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** While this post is sponsored and the items were gifted by Lovedrobe, the opinions, as always, remain my own.**</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-54542592720494560382018-11-21T19:20:00.000+00:002018-11-21T19:20:37.787+00:00Just Jumpers with Joanie Clothing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you've been following any of my social media channels of late, it will come as no surprise that I am totally and utterly besotted with Joanie Jumpers at the moment. So I thought I'd show you some of the total beauties I have been wearing at the moment (and guess what? They are 40% until the end of Black Friday, so if you want one - get on it NOW!) </div>
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I never was much of a sweater person. I run a little hot generally so anything too chunky is no good for me as I just end up a sweaty mess. I also used to bemoan the fact that the only cute sweaters tended to be from somewhere like TopShop and stop at a size 14! And then I found <a href="https://joanieclothing.com/" target="_blank">Joanie Clothing</a>... A couple of years ago I got the most adorable cat sweater from them (still a winter fave!) and since then I have been pretty much obsessed. I am starting to wonder how many is too many?! </div>
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<i>I've always loved the Stones, and my red headed heart chose Ruby Tuesday as one of my very first screen names, haha. </i></div>
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<a href="https://joanieclothing.com/product/mardi-tuesday-slogan-jumper/" target="_blank">Mardi Tuesday Slogan Jumper - Joanie Clothing</a></div>
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<a href="https://joanieclothing.com/product/jessica-metallic-midi-skirt-pink/" target="_blank">Jessica Metallic Midi Skirt in Pink - Joanie Clothing</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbklD9x3lKcd8Ks_8k1fmmGg_z3Ja9WYbnyqpZ8NjDJzM8ZxrltyvraktU47UGRucg5L_mIlIgVEpC5yooUA9xn_BAGUdXwo0HlDQufRCblk5fI11OUBKGWyUorPfGSiY8NIqtqqtA00p/s1600/Joanie+Clothing+Jumpers+curves+n+curls+uk+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbklD9x3lKcd8Ks_8k1fmmGg_z3Ja9WYbnyqpZ8NjDJzM8ZxrltyvraktU47UGRucg5L_mIlIgVEpC5yooUA9xn_BAGUdXwo0HlDQufRCblk5fI11OUBKGWyUorPfGSiY8NIqtqqtA00p/s640/Joanie+Clothing+Jumpers+curves+n+curls+uk+%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i>Tiny Dancer is one of my very favourite songs, and I will always be ridiculously moved by the scene in Almost Famous. So when I saw this perfection I had to have it.</i> </div>
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<a href="https://joanieclothing.com/product/reggie-seamstress-for-the-band-jumper/" target="_blank">Reggie Seamstress for the Band Jumper - Joanie Clothing</a></div>
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Velvet Pleated Midi Skirt - Marks and Spencer (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2Bp6WRq" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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<i>I will forever adore Frenchie, and this jumper. </i></div>
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<a href="https://joanieclothing.com/product/frenchie-beauty-school-drop-out-jumper/" target="_blank">Frenchie Beauty School Drop Out Jumper - Joanie Clothing</a></div>
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Tiered Tulle Midi Skirt - ASOS Curve (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2R2pX1d" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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Joanie Jumpers are fine knit, so not too warm at all. In fact I can wear one all evening in a pub (a very important test in my book!) without melting. Most of the jumpers are kinda cropped (well they cover my belly button), so as you can see I prefer to wear these with flared midi skirts. They're not something I would wear with jeans - just a personal preference really. The knit has a lot of stretch to it, as well as the designs being generously sized, which means I can quite comfortably fit into a size XL (a 20-22 according to their website), and I reckon it would fit up to a size 24/26. When Joanie originally started they did a wider range of sizes, and I really hope as more plus ladies discover them they consider opening up their size range again. </div>
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But really what gets me is the array of designs - so many awesome references to old school tunes, pop culture, and cult films; many of them my absolute faves! So this post really is just an appreciation post of some of my faves! Have you tried any Joanie Jumpers? Got any on your lust list? Let me know...</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com249tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-1019640222675641302018-11-15T23:20:00.000+00:002018-11-16T14:06:00.287+00:00Stepping Out In Separates With Marks and Spencer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Y'all know I am usually very much a dresses kinda girl. But lately I am really enjoying separates. I like the mix and match quality, and I absolutely cannot resist a pleated skirt at the moment. So when I was recently asked to pick some pieces from Marks and Spencer, I decided to add some separates into the mix. I am also obsessing about luxe fabrics, and I love the juxtaposition of the faux leather with the satin. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2RWLFE0" target="_blank">Faux Leather Pleated Skirt - M&S Collection</a></div>
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Graphic Print Blouse - M&S Collection (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2OKBiB4" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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<a href="https://rstyle.me/cz-n/dbn25mb79m7" target="_blank">Leopard Print Kitten Heels - Evans</a></div>
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I went for this beautiful forest green <a href="http://bit.ly/2RWLFE0" target="_blank">faux leather pleated skirt</a>. I already have something really similar in black but I felt the colour gave it a seasonal update and I'm always a sucker for green. I also think that if you're going for a good quality faux leather then it's going to give you loads of wear, so i wouldn't bother investing in leather for something that's trend led. I'd leave the investment for a staple piece like a leather biker jacket or similar. I am wearing a size 24, as I always size up in skirts and it fits perfectly, sitting over the knee on my 5'8/9 frame. </div>
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I chose a long sleeve satin shirt in mustard with a green graphic print (it is sold out online, but you can find similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2OKBiB4" target="_blank">here</a>, and I also recently saw they still had stock in my local M&S Croydon, so it's worth having a look in store if you love it as much as I do). Satin is one of those things that can look a bit cheap if it's too shiny, too thin, or done wrong, but this shirt is done so right. It is such a sophisticated look, and is the perfect piece to take from the office to drinks afterwards. I think all I'd do is add some bigger earrings and undo a button! </div>
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I decided to accessorise with leopard print, because a) I always love it, b) it's so hot right now, an c) as far as I am concerned it's a neutral that goes with everything. I paired the look with a leopard clutch I bought last year, and some gorgeous <a href="https://rstyle.me/cz-n/dbn25mb79m7" target="_blank">leopard heels from Evans</a> that are as stylish as they are comfy! </div>
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What's in your fall wardrobe? What Autumnal trends are you living for? What would you like to see more of on here, now that I am back to blogging a little more regularly? </div>
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**All items in this post were gifted, but the opinions, as always, remain my own. **</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-47579557495871535952018-11-05T01:57:00.000+00:002018-11-05T01:57:20.301+00:00Real Talk: Anxiety, Depression and Getting Help<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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First things first - well done. If you are reading this post, it means you are trying to get help to get well. And that in and of itself is a most tremendous achievement, when the smallest thing can seem insurmountable. I am proud of you, and you should be proud of yourself. Even if you haven't felt that feeling in a while, allow that glow of pride to warm you now.<br />
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I'm not going to lie, getting help and getting better - it's tough. Of course it is. But the only thing tougher is staying ill. The only thing tougher is living with this beast on your back for God knows how long. It's a fight - but then is there anything more worth fighting for than your own mental health? No. There isn't. This is the most important fight. And while only you can possibly know how hard it is, and only you can really ask for help, help is exactly what you are going to need. Doing this alone will be harder.<br />
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This is a post about things I know after years of battling with my own mental health. Things I wish I had done years ago. Things I should be better at remembering to do now. It is a guide built just as much for me (someone with a long history of anxiety and depression) as it is for you. It is advice that has been battle tested - with my own tears and tantrums and desperation and fear. It doesn't always work, and everyone's battles are different. But since I started writing more openly about my mental health I have had a lot of people reach out to me for help. For advice on how to get help. For a promise that things will get better. So this is where I am choosing to start.<br />
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<b>Letting people know...</b><br />
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You have to let people in. You need to share this burden with others. Give people a chance to understand, and a chance to help. The place to start is with the ones who love you. These are hard conversations to have. But you're going to need them. Be it a partner, a parent, a friend, a sibling. Someone you trust, someone who loves you.<br />
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I know that depression and anxiety like to drum into us that we are burdensome creatures not worthy of love and support. But that is absolute crap. Rubbish! Banish those thoughts from your mind this instant! You didn't choose this! This is an illness. An illness that causes much pain and suffering. And if there was anything you could do to alleviate that for someone you loved you would. In a heart beat. The people who love you are just the same - even if it is something hard for them to understand.<br />
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The other day I was panicking about this very thing. Allowing my guilt for needing help to ravage through me, and isolate me yet again. A wise friend pointed out that there were so many times I had helped people without thinking. Never considering them a burden. Even if it wasn't easy or convenient for me. Even if it was a struggle I didn't understand. Even if I was struggling myself. She pointed out that love isn't about balancing the scales, but even if it was I wouldn't have to worry because I had done and continue to do my bit for the people I love. So remember that, if like me you get those guilt pangs. You are worthy of help, love and support. And I bet you have loved and supported your team too.<br />
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When I first started having these conversations many years ago I didn't have half the words I needed to explain my experiences. I didn't have the vocabulary, the metaphors, the means to describe what it was I felt and what it was like to go through it. Some days I still don't. And I realise more and more that for those who don't experience this, comprehension of what these struggles are actually like is a big barrier. If you don't know how to put it into words, or can't manage to right now, there are lots of resources online that do a great job of this. I find the <a href="https://www.blurtitout.org/resource/understanding-depression/" target="_blank">Blurt Foundation</a> is particularly helpful for this. They have a whole section of resources, that will be useful for you and your loved ones.<br />
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One of the hardest things about telling people, is that they then want to help. Letting people in means dealing with a lot of well meant bumbling, that often is the last thing you want and does more harm than good. Awkward. First, I try to remember that this comes from a place of love. And a desire to help. People who don't understand this sort of thing are thinking about when they felt sad or nervous and are trying to do what they think is right. Even though it is very much not the same thing. And some people, even if they have had very similar experiences, are just terrible at this shit. And that's okay. However, their being terrible at this is not something you need to deal with right now.<br />
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We have to accept that they are going to want to help us because they love us. But that their idea of help may not in fact be helpful. And there are times that distance can be the best thing they can give you.<br />
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Before you explain how you are feeling to someone it's a good idea to have a think about how they can help you. What it is you need right now, and if they are the right person to do it. Everyone has different strengths - some people are good listeners, some people are excellent distractions, some people are organisers, some are action focused. I know from experience that as soon as I have to tell someone what I need I immediately can't think of anything. So I have been making a list of things that can be helpful, and I also asked my followers on Facebook and Instagram what they wished their loved ones could or would do to support them when they are unwell. So when you are faced with this dilemma have a look at the below list and see if there is anything on there someone in your life might be able to help you with / need to know. Then take the list with you, and tell them. Some of the below is contradictory, because we need different things from different people, and because not all of this applies to me as I got some great insight from those I asked online (these are in inverted commas)...<br />
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<b>Ways to help - </b><br />
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<li>Acknowledge that everything is not okay. I might not want to talk about it all that much, but it's not a dirty secret. Ask me how I am doing and be okay when I say 'not great'</li>
<li>Help with chores, cook for me, make sure I have basic groceries, do an online shop so I just have to put in my card details. </li>
<li>Put a load of laundry on or empty the dishwasher.</li>
<li>Help me plan / plan something for me to look forward to.</li>
<li>Help me to find services in my local area (more on this below)</li>
<li>I get bad at responding to texts, because so many people will ask how I am. And I don't know what to say to everyone so I hide. But keep texting me letting me know it's okay and you're still there. </li>
<li>Come over and run me a bath - sometimes it's hard to get motivated to do even the simplest things. And it's good to know I will have company after</li>
<li>Just keep trying, don't give up on me when I am like this</li>
<li>Watch something with me that makes us both laugh</li>
<li>Take me to the cinema, or come over and watch a movie - basically anything where we don't have to talk.</li>
<li>Make me go outside in nature, somewhere pretty (public transport gets really hard for me when I am like this so fetching me helps)</li>
<li>Check that I am getting my prescriptions when I need them (anti depressants need to be taken on time, and when they're not it really fucks you)</li>
<li>"Just listen to me verbalise my random inner monologue. Without trying to rationalise or fix things. Sometimes just saying things out loud really helps."</li>
<li>"Lots of cuddles if I am up to it, of if not give me space for a day or two so I can hide and work my way through it"</li>
<li>"My mom helps with my housework as I live alone. She also sends me cute dog videos / pics"</li>
<li>"Pick up the slack without making a fuss"</li>
<li>"Make me a balanced meal"</li>
<li>"Leave me alone, and don't make it about yourself when I feel like this"</li>
<li>"A cuddle always helps"</li>
<li>"Listen when I want to talk, without trying to suggest ways for me to 'feel better'"</li>
<li>"Respect my boundaries without arguing"</li>
<li>"I like to be left alone, but I am not mad at a message or whatsapp, just no phone calls"</li>
<li>"When I am struggling I might be snappy and irritable. Don't take it personally"</li>
<li>"Just a big hug. And let me cry."</li>
<li>"Sometimes I'd like for them not to ask questions and just be with me"</li>
<li>" Sometimes just a cup of tea helps. I don't always find talking helpful, there's always an expectation that things can be fixed. But just being with someone and a nice mug of tea, can make things seem less rough."</li>
<li>"See through my brave face"</li>
<li>"Watch my kids so I can sleep without interruptions. So often just being tired can trigger depression."</li>
<li>"Listen and let you talk, no matter what it is you're talking about, just let you talk."</li>
<li>"I wish I could *talk* to them more, but when I start to talk about anxiety or depression I get "you've got nothing to be sad over," or "you can be anxious later, just get through it!" </li>
<li>"Supply wine, chocolate and a shoulder to cry on and listening ear. I’m lucky as my husband suffers too, so ‘gets’ it."</li>
<li>"Drop everything and come round to just give me a hug and hold my hand."</li>
<li>"Just actually keep in touch..."</li>
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<b>Seeking medical help...</b><br />
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For better or worse, any NHS help is going to start with your GP. Not just that, but if you need to be signed off work, or you need to claim ESA. Many of the messages that I get start with people saying they don't feel comfortable talking to their usual GP, or they have and he/she seems clueless, or doesn't seem to believe them, or isn't offering solutions. This is not good enough! I am going to remind you of two things if you are faced with this shit show of a situation.<br />
1) You are worth it. This is an illness. You deserve treatment and to get better.<br />
2) Sometimes this stuff is waaaaaaay harder than it bloody should be, but it's necessary<span style="text-align: center;">. Other people have trod this path before you - you've got this!</span><br />
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So if your GP is shit / not approachable / unhelpful, then you need a new one. I know, what a ball ache! Not what you feel like at this moment. But this is your right! You need the best chance at getting better and that won't be well served by a crap doctor. You may find there is someone brilliant at your own surgery, so moving won't be too tough, or you may have to look further afield.<br />
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The best place to start is with reception. I know GP front office staff can be a little daunting (can you blame them - not an easy job!) but with a bit of charm and politeness, they will always be willing to help. Ask if there is anyone in the surgery who specialises in mental health, or is particularly sympathetic to this sort of thing. Finding someone who knows what is going on is paramount. You may find you need to look further than your current surgery. Which is not ideal, but again it is imperative in the search for wellness. If taking these actions feels a little overwhelming, it may be a way a friend of family member can help - they can look into doctors / services in your area that might be suitable.<br />
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From having had numerous discussions with GPs over the years there are a couple of things to remember. Firstly, don't understate the problem. That is a terribly British thing to do. But it's not helpful. If you can't get out of bed, if you can't go to work, if you struggle to leave the house, if this is having an impact on your relationships, then say that. Don't say it's not that bad. You wouldn't be there sitting in this person's office if it was just a bad couple of days. Be honest with your doctor about the very worst days you are having. This is something I really struggle with too. In fact, I took my mum with me a few years ago. I was in a crisis and didn't know how to get the help that I needed. A wonderful counsellor I was seeing lit a fire under my arse - she told me I deserved better and emboldened me to go and find a better doctor. I was struggling terribly with anxiety, and knew that time and time again I had not quite managed to explain just how much of an impact my mental health was having on my life. So I took my mum with me - to combat the nerves, and because I knew she wouldn't allow me to understate the situation. She also remembered all the things I needed to tell or ask the doctor - which was really helpful, as when I am struggling my memory just goes to shit. So if there is someone in your life you could take with to your appointments (maybe even just the first couple) then do that.<br />
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I am going to be honest with you. The level of support we can currently get from the NHS for more common mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, is woefully inadequate. Despite growing discussions about the prevalence of mental health problems and how many people this issue effects, the growth in funding just hasn't been seen. Services are chronically overburdened. And mental health provision has truly become a post code lottery, with access to services varying widely depending on where in the country you live. Generally, GPs essentially have two options - to give you medication, and to refer you for psychological therapies (most likely CBT). The first happens pretty much immediately. The second can take a very long time.<br />
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<b>Medication</b><br />
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My experiences with anti depressants have been varied. I have been medicated in some form or another for the last 12 years. At the moment I can't imagine a time when I might not be medicated and that's okay with me. This is what my mind needs. This is one of the ways I treat my illness.<br />
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My medication has needed quite a few tweaks over the years. And has worked with varying degrees of success. But without medication I don't think I would be here today. And that says a lot. That doesn't make it an easy option - the side effects are myriad and especially in the beginning they can be tough to deal with. The early days of going onto any medication can be particularly tough, and you will want to make sure you have your support system around you for the rough few weeks when you start. And sometimes it can take a while to find the right dosage, or indeed the right drug. So prepare to dedicate yourself to a process that can be tricky. Knowing about the drug you are on - such as potential side effects, what you can and can't mix with your medication (alcohol etc), the importance of taking it regularly and promptly (this is key) is really helpful preparation. But be warned - there is a lot of scaremongering online about anti depressants. Be careful what you read - because anecdotal experiences of anti-depressants can be worrying and inaccurate. At the end of the day you have to do what you and your doctor feel is right for your treatment.<br />
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Personally, I definitely think that medication can be a really important part of recovery, and is not something that anyone should be ashamed of. Remember that it's okay to need a pill to help you control or conquer an illness.<br />
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<b>Counselling and Therapy</b><br />
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The other option your doctor will have is to refer you for some kind of psychological therapy. As I stated before, the standard offer is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which is an evidence based therapy that works to change thought patterns and therefore change the behaviours that may be fuelling your illness. Ordinarily you will be referred to something called IAPT (Increased Access to Psychological Therapies - a misnomer if ever I've seen one), or you can refer yourself. You will then undergo a phone assessment which lasts about an hour, and will basically place you in the queue for treatment. <br />
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Unfortunately as funding gets tighter and need gets greater, waiting lists are growing for these kinds of treatments. Depending on where you live you could be waiting a very long time (6 months plus). Within London I know someone who had to wait a mere couple of weeks for her CBT to begin, while I have had to wait a year without any therapy yet, and had to undergo phone assessments and a face to face assessment where it seemed the only criteria was whether on that day I had any plans to take my own life.<br />
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I know people who have worked for the IAPT assessment service, trained counsellors, who felt they had to leave because they were aware that they couldn't really help anyone. And that a lot of what they did was brush people off. And from experience I know that in areas where the waiting lists are long it seems that the only way to get seen is to keep pestering - which is incredibly unhelpful, because seeking help when you have mental health problems feels near impossible. So having to repeatedly plead for it will be a massive barrier to some, if not most, people. But if you are in one of these over subscribed, under funded areas, alas pester you must! Again, this is something that those who are supporting you might be able to help with - to phone up for you. Or to remind you to do so. Keep reminding the services that you are there and you need help. Once you actually get onto the radar it is easier to continue to get support.<br />
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Different areas also have different services available beyond IAPT - some have charities or social enterprises that offer therapy or counselling. Some have support groups and classes. This is all very specific to your area. Some of it may require a doctor's referral, some might not. But it is important to know what is available. Again - when this task feels too huge it might be something really simple and helpful to ask a well friend to help with. Google local services and find out what is on offer.<br />
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The NHS is incredible. I have worked in the health sector for much of my professional life and I am still in awe of this incredible institution that helps so many. But as I mentioned before - mental health provision is just rubbish. The bottom line is there is not enough money. And the outcomes and interventions are not as clear cut as they are for many other illnesses. So funding continues to get squeezed as the whole health service battles to balance to books.<br />
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This is absolute bullshit. Of course it is. It breaks my heart that money wise we are so incredibly far away from mental health being treated the same as physical health. And it's short sighted too - because from a purely fiscal point of view, poor mental health and stress accounts for so much absence, lost productivity, and people being unable to work entirely. I completely and utterly believe that you and I should not be begging for help from the NHS to manage our conditions. And I will continue to fight this battle. Endlessly. However, for the moment, this is the world we live in.<br />
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<b>Finding a (private) counsellor or therapist</b><br />
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Many do not have the luxury of being able to afford any kind of treatment for themselves. But many do, it just doesn't occur to them. We are used to having the NHS for all ailments, so private practice is a bit of an anathema to us. And it seems expensive. But then is there anything worth more than your mental health? That's how I think about it. Again, not everyone is in the position where they can afford private counselling (more below on pricing) or has someone who can help them fund it. But if you do want to go down the private route, where you even start? Do you need a referral? How do you find people? What do you say? How much does it cost?<br />
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Counselling usually costs anywhere between about £30 and £80 per session. However many counsellors do offer special rates for those on lower income or benefits. There is no referral needed. And just like looking for anything else, Google is your friend here. There is <a href="https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/?gclid=CjwKCAjwsfreBRB9EiwAikSUHeKWArQiXqsM-UnA99ZfjXcbzF5HjasCZy9sx0e-T4h2aAwlFcznkRoCT7wQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">counselling directory </a>which lists accredited, professional therapists and counsellors in you area (and there are many other resources like this online). You can usually search via area, and subject like talking therapy or CBT. Each counsellor has a bio and talks about their approach. You can also check if they do appointments via Skype (I prefer this as leaving the house is often a barrier for me). Most will have contact details, or you can contact them via a contact form. [Creating a short list of people for you to look at / contact could again be something that one of your loved ones could do - you could give them your parameters, like say you were looking for a woman, in your local area, who did Skype calls and specialised in CBT, or eating disorders, or trauma.] I usually write a generic email which explains where I am at the moment, what the problem is and what I am hoping for treatment wise, and then ask if they would be open to having a phone call for 10 minutes. This helps you get a sense of one another and might make it easier to decide whether this is someone you can work with. Because that relationship is important. And if you have taken a dislike to someone, or just feel they don't get where you are coming from, this is going to be tough. Hopefully you can have a couple of phone calls and find someone you are comfortable with. [I might write a post at a later date about what to expect from counselling - let me know if that would be useful]<br />
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Phew! I think that's it for now. I know this is a lot of information. And some may not be relevant to your battle. Or you may have been through this process and feel I have left some vital stuff out (please let me know - I want this to be a useful resource!) I just know that when I have been at my most hopeless, I had sometimes wished there was a manual. Or a procedure to follow. Some way to know what to do, or how to even start. This is by no means exhaustive. It's just the little pieces of knowledge I have managed to scrape together over years of war with this beast. Sending you love and light. You got this!HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-83004999574698187562018-09-11T20:05:00.000+01:002018-09-11T20:05:09.460+01:00Hayley and the Hair: My experience at The Chapel Hair Salon <div style="text-align: center;">
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I always say that I spend more time talking about the curves on this blog, and sometimes quite neglect the curls! Well - my curls got all the attention when I recently visited <a href="https://www.thechapel.co.uk/islington-hairdressers" target="_blank">The Chapel </a>salon in Islington, for a cut, colour and hair lesson with the lovely Oliver.<br />
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Some of you who follow me on social media may remember that over December and January I was really ill, and ended up in hospital. The upshot of many months of puzzling about what caused this is that I had very bad gastroentiritis which triggered a severe case of IBS, putting me into the early stages of kidney failure. A stay in hospital, being rehydrated, and the elimination of gluten from my diet helped stabilise me, but alas I am still dealing with the IBS (fun times). </div>
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The reason this tale of woe is relevant is because in April my hair suddenly started falling out in chunks. Everytime I washed it I would be horrified as tresses fell away into my hands. After doing my research I realised that it was very likely linked to my illness, as after a period of serious illness it is quite common that three to four months later your hair may fall out. This is particularly common in women. The good news is that the hair almost alway recovers. The frightening thing was I didn't know how long it would go on for, and what hair would be left to me when it was done. For two months it carried on shedding at the same rate - not helped at all by a barage of stress in my personal and professional life. By the end of June it had stopped, but my hair had lost half of its thickness. I am lucky to be blessed with extraordinarily thick hair. But this change still really messed with my confidence. Not only do I have a lot less hair than before, shedding so much hair meant my curl structure changed - less ringlets, more a collection of fuzzy and wavy. And the hair that was left was quite unhealthy and dry. I have had to look at what products I use, how often I wash it and how I style it. My hair is quite a big part of my confidence in my physical appearance, and so this whole experience was a real blow.<br />
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So when I was contacted by the lovely team at <a href="https://www.thechapel.co.uk/islington-hairdressers" target="_blank">The Chapel in Islington</a> the timing couldn't have been more perfect. They were inviting me to come in for a cut and colour, as well as a styling consultation. I actually cried when I got the email, as for the last month I had been moving house, stressed to the eyeballs, and scraping my hair into a permanent topknot as I just didn't have the energy - physical or emotional - to learn how to work with it again. </div>
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The Chapel also have branches in Tunbridge Wells, Seven Oaks, Horsham, and Marlow - all with the same ethos. Putting their clients at the centre of the salon experience, and making each visit feel like special time for yourself. I was to visiting The Chapel in Islington - and this is a rejuvanative experience in and of itself. I was asked to come in for a colour test and consulation 48 hours before my appointment. I am going to be honest - as a time poor Londoner, while I appreciated the necessity of the colour test to make sure you're not allergic etc, I always begrudge them because it feels like a bit of an annoying journey to make. Especially as I had to travel across London on one of the hottest days of the year. Well, as soon as I arrived my annoyance evaporated. I was ushered into the quiet waiting area, where I was offered ice cold water, and a kit kat. I mean, this is very much the way to my heart. It was impressed upon me there was no need to rush, and Oliver, my hair stylist would be with me shortly. I often find salons quite stressful places - with the hairdryers going, phones ringing, people chatting and stylists running between several clients. At The Chapel each stylist only has one client at a time, so the salon feels quieter, and you get individual attention, which really is what you are paying for.<br />
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The waiting room is beautifully decorated, and slightly seperate from the studio, so it can be dimly lit, which just immediately induces a sense of calm, and there is no hubub from the salon - the idle chit chat, the hum of hair dryers are faint and inoffensive. It sounds silly, but it just made me relax and immediately feel like I had come somewhere for myself. Oliver joined me and we chatted on the sofas as I told him my hairy tale. I explained that my hair was feeling unhealthy, that it needed a cut but that I didn't want to lose much length because I had already lost so much thickness, and that I was at a bit of a loss as to what to do with it styling wise, as usually I just wore it down but it not being the same cloud as before, I felt less confidant with that. We had a really great chat and he told me his thoughts and showed me some colours, but said that he would also consult with some colleagues before we met. He then urged me to relax as long as I liked before starting my journey home. So I chilled out a bit longer, had some more cold water, and braced myself to face the tube inferno.<br />
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<b><i>My moodboard</i></b></div>
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Oliver also asked me to bring a mood board back in with me. It could be of anything that inspired me or spoke to me, as well as styles and colours I adored. It would give him more of an idea of me, and give us some aesthetics to head towards. I came back in two days later, and again got some chill time in the lovely waiting room. Oliver (who is a total love!) came and found me and we chatted again about what we had agreed with my hair. I showed him my mood board, and we discussed what we would be doing with the cut and colour. I noticed other clients receiving similar attentions which made me glad - this wasn't all put on because they were working with an "influencer". </div>
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The Chapel in Islington is set over two floors, the ground floor holds the cut and styling studio, reception and the waiting room, while downstairs in the basement is the colour studio. Oliver recommended I go a bit darker and more red with my colour than I have been in a while - this would make my hair look shinier and healthier which was something I really needed. The downstairs colour studio is away from any hubbub, and we chatted and giggled like old friends while he coloured my hair. Once we were done with the colour and it was all rinsed off, we moved upstairs for my trim. Again he spoke me through what he was going to do, and his colleagues even came over and it seemed they had indeed chatted about what might be best for my curls. He talked me through my usual hair cut anxieties and took a very measured approach - taking little off the length, but cutting in alternating, thin, long layers, to give me some of my body back. I could immediately feel just how much healthier my ends were!<br />
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<i><b>My newly cut and coloured hair, thanks to The Chapel</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Hayley and the happy hair</b></i><br />
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But the best part of my whole experience was definitely the hair lesson I got at the end of my session. Despite my hair being such an integral part of my look, I am just not that good with doing hair. And so on my mood board I had put some simple things I wanted to learn to do - more up dos, some french braiding etc. I think Oliver is a natural teacher, because he really methodically took me through some basics - like sectioning my hair to make it easier to work with - and afterwards I felt a renewed confidence to have a go myself. I have never had anything like that with any hairdresser I have been to so it was a really great experience, and one I would definitely recommend if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by your hair, or a bit useless.<br />
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<b><i>Selfies with the lush and lovely Oliver from The Chapel</i></b><br />
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Afterwards there was time for a few selfies together, and some cuddles, before I made my way home. All in all it was an amazing experience. It really helped me to fall back in love with my hair after a hard few months. My cut and colour where incredibly professional and well done, and the hair lesson really gave me a bunch of new skills which I have been using since! So if you're in a bit of a hair rut, I would very much recommend a trip to the lovely lot at <a href="https://www.thechapel.co.uk/islington-hairdressers">The Chapel Islington</a>!<br />
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To read about my experience with my hair, how I look after it, and how I learned to love it, read <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2017/08/hayley-and-hair-my-curl-story-and-care.html">this post</a>.<br />
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** This hair experience was gifted, but as always, all opinions are my own ** </div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-12059640111507782018-07-25T21:01:00.002+01:002018-07-25T21:01:20.311+01:00Plus Size Swimwear Look Book 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Swimwear shopping can be a bit daunting, but don't worry I've got you covered with a full round up of what I've been wearing on my last two trips to Turkey. So if you're a curvy plus size babe looking for some swim inspo (swinspo?) then keep scrolling water babies! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LGmdzH" target="_blank">Magisculpt Convertible Multiway Suit - JD Williams</a> </div>
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When I decided that I was done with hiding away, and was ready to get my bod out on the beach, I felt it had to be bikinis or nothing. But I am a total water baby, and super active in the water, so while I love to rock a bikini, sometimes a swimsuit is just more more practical. This swimsuit is totally convertible - during my week in Turkey in June I tried multiple ways to wear it, as you can see above and I haven't even scratched the surface. Quite a few babes bought it as a result of seeing me in it on social media, and have been kind enough to send me pics and they all look super lush. It's easy to wear and super glam. Get's a big thumbs up from me! (Wearing a size 22)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2uXwy3m" target="_blank">Curvy Kate Maya Bikini - Evans</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Lgp6uZ" target="_blank">White Crochet Edged Coverup - Evans</a></div>
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I love me some Curvy Kate bikinis - especially because their bra sized tops are wonderfully supportive. The red oriental print on this Maya set is so pretty, while the side cut outs on the high waisted bottoms are a cute, sexy little detail. Bottoms are a 22, top is a 40F. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2JMRlvS" target="_blank">Curvy Kate Ahoy Bikini Top - Next</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2uLit9H" target="_blank">Curvy Kate Jetty High Waisted Bottoms</a></div>
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Another Curvy Kate beauty here. I love some nautical inspired swimwear, and this red, white and blue stripe is seafaring perfection! The matching bottoms for this were a bit scant for me, so I decided to pair it with some old Curvy Kate bottoms (I have tracked some down for you above) which are the same shade of blue and I think they work well together. I think finding swimwear you love is often about mixing and matching. Top is a 40F, bottoms are a 22. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4hG0suM0cHiWFIVjcTOh2E1ypCWOMaoHA2l38PCEc3QU92ybv5o_P51MVtjgv1rPV7l6XgJVTgNCd3_z7LGRd42PHgD4hzdspvH0tT3R_mYDiLYwuPbqjMN83qGMGL8oCJt9fYh6bz_l/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4hG0suM0cHiWFIVjcTOh2E1ypCWOMaoHA2l38PCEc3QU92ybv5o_P51MVtjgv1rPV7l6XgJVTgNCd3_z7LGRd42PHgD4hzdspvH0tT3R_mYDiLYwuPbqjMN83qGMGL8oCJt9fYh6bz_l/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252813%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LlSjok" target="_blank">Navy Bali Print Bikini Top and bottoms - Evans</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2NByfv2" target="_blank">Geometric Print Cover Up - Evans</a></div>
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Evans has really upped their swimwear game this season. The tops are dress sized, which might not work for the bustier or smaller boobed, but the size 22 fits me great. And the high waisted bottoms are lush, plus this cover up is super glam. And the best news - it's currently all <a href="http://bit.ly/2NFEaPA" target="_blank">on sale</a>! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFP0kHeeCfpGgVQsNVb_xOtNapW3NPksuwbusArwd3wIEGJdWtYCbiYAUwB2dr9ir5fknqTX6UVK4Pn7SRnR80Gvct94g3u2KhG7C_PBIR2aoh4-dgaG4nB_tMwHUrfmDlQFtDjVKNNxBd/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFP0kHeeCfpGgVQsNVb_xOtNapW3NPksuwbusArwd3wIEGJdWtYCbiYAUwB2dr9ir5fknqTX6UVK4Pn7SRnR80Gvct94g3u2KhG7C_PBIR2aoh4-dgaG4nB_tMwHUrfmDlQFtDjVKNNxBd/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%25283%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34H5O7XYR2IKuV5a0IYtQU0JaCmWYd0mBFFowZf8q0n7NbE2oRRUS0P5eqUkDZUpPQPGkYNNdHzEIJHKjzGuK3GC1Z1PFtBDMnJFF3-zxu2iHGFLke6P8_xMgWumS5IyalAZgnwJAM0n8/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252816%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34H5O7XYR2IKuV5a0IYtQU0JaCmWYd0mBFFowZf8q0n7NbE2oRRUS0P5eqUkDZUpPQPGkYNNdHzEIJHKjzGuK3GC1Z1PFtBDMnJFF3-zxu2iHGFLke6P8_xMgWumS5IyalAZgnwJAM0n8/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252816%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Purple Fringed Bikini Top - eBay (old)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LJJ2Th" target="_blank">Elomi High Waisted Briefs in Berry</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2NCmBjs" target="_blank">Ombre Kimono - Boohoo</a></div>
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As I said above, sometimes my fave swimwear looks are a proper mix and match, and that's exactly what this one is. The fringed top is a real steal I found on eBay a few years ago that I whip out when I am feeling proper extra. The bottoms are some of my fave style from Elomi, as they are super high waisted, and I am loving this berry colour way, and the kimono was a bargain from Boohoo. Altogether it's an ombre dream and a look no one else will have poolside!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivgnkQqDfXAbsYVyCUMkEbzhonUmZIWr25jNhoMYmjfatNdExwq3VpCTpW7Qik65cS2RHtCFjeANHAK0rVJMnEQHs7TvxymlJ5A8d_vYHYWlxuXIAbn5uAZNtnTKHgNQ1t9Hl6XKdpQpMl/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252820%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivgnkQqDfXAbsYVyCUMkEbzhonUmZIWr25jNhoMYmjfatNdExwq3VpCTpW7Qik65cS2RHtCFjeANHAK0rVJMnEQHs7TvxymlJ5A8d_vYHYWlxuXIAbn5uAZNtnTKHgNQ1t9Hl6XKdpQpMl/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252820%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2OfDiCu" target="_blank">Elomi Indigo Indie Bikini Top</a></div>
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This bikini top really surprised me. The lovely lot at Elomi sent it to me, and I wasn't convinced that it was going to work but it turns out I really love the unusual lace look over the bandeau halterneck. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4c8qMBhZvXYlnpPkChmA1PfiWoB3Mv-l5yjf_2R9yjWYG7S7DiRJlxjX2llIP0Da4bdko-1qH2gJ9IZfeHMVmg_xe1WrEKz69WY4EkbHjPmfUcfEezLjQXRZfa5S6GFYO-8BD0wp55iyW/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4c8qMBhZvXYlnpPkChmA1PfiWoB3Mv-l5yjf_2R9yjWYG7S7DiRJlxjX2llIP0Da4bdko-1qH2gJ9IZfeHMVmg_xe1WrEKz69WY4EkbHjPmfUcfEezLjQXRZfa5S6GFYO-8BD0wp55iyW/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%25285%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvewUOAhaoZmvf_S2VTS3sbVXAE70Lmz7BR3yANPTyZAyUA2o-C3hIBVq6qVo8JI8Xjv0k4FBZEGadUppjjgvZAzRLSUJTHYOPOQPXF10RuHQEhVkduqqqzWxGwBpL5G0SfgGK0mtMBCo/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1470" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvewUOAhaoZmvf_S2VTS3sbVXAE70Lmz7BR3yANPTyZAyUA2o-C3hIBVq6qVo8JI8Xjv0k4FBZEGadUppjjgvZAzRLSUJTHYOPOQPXF10RuHQEhVkduqqqzWxGwBpL5G0SfgGK0mtMBCo/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252815%2529.JPG" width="588" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvjMG7WqgTv06aWKrZlwSjBNKFUeeEnJcPPN3NXvqh8oh98CXNOTtB4O0bOafb-ZdPTSVxY4XFJHom1TPwKBECBTUXlValQVNZZOYpdU3BBwpRkFvVVePq86PXLOIWRUUw1mM-e8CTdZm/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvjMG7WqgTv06aWKrZlwSjBNKFUeeEnJcPPN3NXvqh8oh98CXNOTtB4O0bOafb-ZdPTSVxY4XFJHom1TPwKBECBTUXlValQVNZZOYpdU3BBwpRkFvVVePq86PXLOIWRUUw1mM-e8CTdZm/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252814%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2AameKT" target="_blank">Tuscany Tummy Control Swimsuit - Figleaves</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.voodoovixen.co.uk/decorative-pink-floral-glasses.html" target="_blank">Decorative Floral Pink Sunglasses - Voodoo Vixen</a></div>
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When I was at uni a friend of mine made a comment when I was wearing something low cut, about how my boobs had a flop over line. She was really quite disparraging about it, and that stayed with me for a long time. Basically until last year, when I was getting dressed in front of two blogger babes and they told me I had pretty perky, cute boobs. It really changed how I felt about my boobies. Mainly because it really brought home to me that they're all different, as are people's perceptions, so it doesn't really matter. And boobs are not gravity defying. It's weird to think that a year ago I would not have liked this swimsuit on me, and now I think I look fit AF. Wearing a size 22. Probably better for someone who's not mega busty as it's not overly supportive, but does have some cups sewn in for a little boost.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8wTOwF-R-x3cUsDd_WC5ZWWoN1u8wdkXCaE9jGMssFJxjUW992EQWvLGI7mion6QYMOid3ccUTdMIdQnE_gNieN7ny8Uso8kT3r9ewFZ1AISNPgD31b9FFsZ19OWsvR25lw_P6M3WMl2/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8wTOwF-R-x3cUsDd_WC5ZWWoN1u8wdkXCaE9jGMssFJxjUW992EQWvLGI7mion6QYMOid3ccUTdMIdQnE_gNieN7ny8Uso8kT3r9ewFZ1AISNPgD31b9FFsZ19OWsvR25lw_P6M3WMl2/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%25289%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzj6B8mNNQwSMC8XP1glI7_NnE-Mx2k9CqRWFCs0f0YB6BFALr4_qOlJiajOK230-XNb6B16OcLLPuK8FzYeqKDHj1dAnD4RMscFN4YlgqEIVj2AIwcMzcBNlTWvKcZSUSXFUG-aoJ6Jim/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzj6B8mNNQwSMC8XP1glI7_NnE-Mx2k9CqRWFCs0f0YB6BFALr4_qOlJiajOK230-XNb6B16OcLLPuK8FzYeqKDHj1dAnD4RMscFN4YlgqEIVj2AIwcMzcBNlTWvKcZSUSXFUG-aoJ6Jim/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252812%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAht878XGhCEm4rc7tP3qbJ5yryLcv37nXZZBbNva4qBKQIAQOW3tXFA2-ytpC-JjYuSHWNpIQ-kqw8hty8mUd8eP577EmcADPv4SlDUGaed3l3X8FEcsaCNAKL9bGIApMYPRBiRGj-1p2/s1600/fantasia+hippo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAht878XGhCEm4rc7tP3qbJ5yryLcv37nXZZBbNva4qBKQIAQOW3tXFA2-ytpC-JjYuSHWNpIQ-kqw8hty8mUd8eP577EmcADPv4SlDUGaed3l3X8FEcsaCNAKL9bGIApMYPRBiRGj-1p2/s640/fantasia+hippo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2uRi3i1" target="_blank">Junarose Ruffle Detail Halterneck Bikini</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2LMgU1H" target="_blank">Sunnylife Rainbow Beach Ball - ASOS</a></div>
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When I originally posted this picture on social media I posted it as the above meme with me and the Fantasia hippo - I think it's cute and funny and I love it. But loads of people were quick to jump all over it saying "I don't see the resemblance" "you're not a hippo". Just a reminder not to project your own insecurities about these things onto other people. I am a hippo, I am cute AF, and I am okay with it! Wearing a size 22 top, and size 24 bottoms. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZpARXCiZhN6FIh0C7mwK0v73oIN6PCRJYPNhQrx05q83Vb0u3ho3UUBvrl-BQ7lJAm-wOZpaTRYa4wbY53b8vA-jwHQ4SupIaNMluh-R7FiQdn4WyuYrGAd-dUvGqVnl8WbS3-skN2Fp/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252821%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZpARXCiZhN6FIh0C7mwK0v73oIN6PCRJYPNhQrx05q83Vb0u3ho3UUBvrl-BQ7lJAm-wOZpaTRYa4wbY53b8vA-jwHQ4SupIaNMluh-R7FiQdn4WyuYrGAd-dUvGqVnl8WbS3-skN2Fp/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252821%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWNC3CWZ56yJTekxVpzIeVsLBkhyxYfbvAqNOO7-jMBu5KWEzX2FV84eebQe07b2HoalhqqShtV8lrKnmgsYpBlFY9eEh6wg5SOxaFdRkHJ5to5bY8hQUcVadwQ8uaP4gg-k0OOGCQVul/s1600/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252822%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWNC3CWZ56yJTekxVpzIeVsLBkhyxYfbvAqNOO7-jMBu5KWEzX2FV84eebQe07b2HoalhqqShtV8lrKnmgsYpBlFY9eEh6wg5SOxaFdRkHJ5to5bY8hQUcVadwQ8uaP4gg-k0OOGCQVul/s640/CurvesnCurlsUK+swimwear+plus+size+look+book+bikini+%252822%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.forluna.co.uk/collections/plus-size-retro-swimwear/products/plus-size-retro-black-white-polka-dot-swimsuit" target="_blank">Retro Black and White Polkadot Swimming Costume - For Luna</a></div>
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I've been wanting to try a piece from For Luna for ages, because I love their vintage inspired pinup cuteness. And this polka dot cutie did not dissapoint. Love a sexy looking full costume, and the ruching on this beauty makes for really gorgeous curves. In love! Wearing a size 22.</div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-13129488424620418532018-06-21T23:02:00.000+01:002018-06-21T23:02:00.728+01:00Summer Holiday Look Book Vol 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rNGH4Rd5KxAfpeVzDZGcgDMCwBY73JGXMX4XRuhs5j08B-NwN-jX6aKITKU3wn_pzxYErOkarQDqIgkD3DnEsJldsuRdtE0cZ6vsOP4wE1N4VFmmYEuH3PJ-0dMhUHaaa-kFzYq5KFto/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Holiday+Look+Book+Summer+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="800" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rNGH4Rd5KxAfpeVzDZGcgDMCwBY73JGXMX4XRuhs5j08B-NwN-jX6aKITKU3wn_pzxYErOkarQDqIgkD3DnEsJldsuRdtE0cZ6vsOP4wE1N4VFmmYEuH3PJ-0dMhUHaaa-kFzYq5KFto/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Holiday+Look+Book+Summer+24.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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Anyone who follows me on my social media will have seen all my annoyingly happy holiday snaps from the Azure Body Positive Wellness Retreat that I host with George from <a href="https://fullerfigurefullerbust.com/" target="_blank">Fuller Figure Fuller Bust</a>. You can read all about the one I hosted last year here, and if you fancy coming along we still have a few spots available in July so go check out the <a href="https://azurewellnessretreat.com/upcoming-retreats/" target="_blank">website</a>. We are also registering interest for 2019, so if you'd like to be one of the first to hear about the 2019 dates and get an advanced chance to book, then pop an email to info@azurewellnessretreat.com and let them know you want to be on the list! </div>
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But I thought y'all might like to see what I wore while we were away for ten days, so below are my outfits, including yoga wear, daywear and what I wore when we went "out out". </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1xZr3RSJJnZcKLyE411VvJggyNWXZYZcHSKlW404PPz41-VV52pdji06pTYFs6PlqcFeSldsitbVm7xwFuMIZeTizIls_FqygjeS1axZpxSbhAVEAbOVQQbXaTcuLmzPZZ28PSyOxZE8/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Holiday+Look+Book+Summer+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1xZr3RSJJnZcKLyE411VvJggyNWXZYZcHSKlW404PPz41-VV52pdji06pTYFs6PlqcFeSldsitbVm7xwFuMIZeTizIls_FqygjeS1axZpxSbhAVEAbOVQQbXaTcuLmzPZZ28PSyOxZE8/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Holiday+Look+Book+Summer+%252816%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Yellow Harem Dress - ASOS Curve (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2yeU00H" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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Rainbow Clutch - picked it up for £2 in the Turkish market!</div>
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<a href="http://nobasicbombshell.com/earrings/xl-rainbow-glitter-rainbow-earrings" target="_blank">Large Rainbow Glitter Earrings - No Basic Bombshell</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Me1GlU" target="_blank">Ava and Orla Printed Maxi Dress - Navabi</a></div>
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Rainbow Sundress - <a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/" target="_blank">Collectif </a>(currently out of stock)</div>
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<a href="https://www.sunjellies.com/bag-shop/atomic-totes/" target="_blank">Atomic Purse - Sun Jellies</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/clothes-c1/dolores-tropical-bird-doll-dress-p7422" target="_blank">Tropical Bird Dolores Doll Dress - Collectif</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfF7GwnIYw3iNuPjXV9KVEmFbXRBiWcHVUFWcXVr6_fwuNZjg9rkZNxhSd-3ph-l49bWpdvivVP4NXU7d2fuQn8k_ahTodM3lCCPfHYwo5ycaQ0zU8Ev9AjWthyfn0P3DEVA0IMMaNrdu1/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Holiday+Look+Book+Summer+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfF7GwnIYw3iNuPjXV9KVEmFbXRBiWcHVUFWcXVr6_fwuNZjg9rkZNxhSd-3ph-l49bWpdvivVP4NXU7d2fuQn8k_ahTodM3lCCPfHYwo5ycaQ0zU8Ev9AjWthyfn0P3DEVA0IMMaNrdu1/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Plus+Size+Holiday+Look+Book+Summer+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Leopard Print Shift Dress - <a href="https://www.annascholz.com/" target="_blank">Anna Scholz</a> (previous collection)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t0fv0m" target="_blank">Citrus Cami Smock Dress - Simply Be</a></div>
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Bandeau Aztec Maxi Dress - Forever 21 (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2JQoFmr" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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City Chic Graphic Print Maxi Dress - Evans (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2LUCJvM" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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Tiered Broderie Anglaise Dress - Monsoon (long sold out, but <a href="http://bit.ly/2JFODx3" target="_blank">similar here</a>)</div>
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Peep Toe Jelly Shoes - Crocs (long sold out alas)</div>
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<a href="https://www.sturdybydesign.com/product/capri-pink-stars/" target="_blank">Capri Pink Stars Leggings - Sturdy by Design</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.sturdybydesign.com/product/capri-mambo/" target="_blank">Capri Mambo Leggings - Sturdy By Design</a></div>
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Harem Jumpsuit - Amazon (similar <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Womens-Hareems-Harems-Jumpsuit-Romper/dp/B01L7NM7IQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1529616382&sr=8-1&keywords=jumpsuit+onesie+women+plus+size" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-20999050420067750592018-05-18T12:02:00.000+01:002018-05-18T12:45:25.553+01:00Love Lobsters: Collectif Lobster Swing Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cute print - check! Good fit - check! Summer vibes - check! These little lobsters from Collectif are going to be one of my summer favourites, I can tell.</div>
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<a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/clothes-c1/sandrine-rock-lobster-swing-dress-p7901" target="_blank">Sandrine Lobster Swing Dress - Collectif</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/clothes-c1/darcy-wrap-around-cardigan-p7546" target="_blank">Vintage Wrap Cardi - Collectif</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.voodoovixen.co.uk/the-monroe-red.html" target="_blank">Monroe Red Bag - Voodoo Vixen</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2KppxOO" target="_blank">Red Flower Detailed T Bar Sandal - Evans</a></div>
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It's no secret that <a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/">Collectif</a> is one of my favourite brands for seriously cute vintage inspired fashion, and every summer they BRING IT with the absolute best summery prints. This year is no different and from the moment I saw these lobsters I wanted them on my body! </div>
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I tend to revisit my favourite Collectif styles season in, season out (hello - I have a million <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2016/01/pin-up-perfection-collectifs-dolores.html">Dolores Doll dresses</a>!). There were a few gorgeous lobster themed dresses, but I was most drawn to the Sandrine. The Sandrine is a swing dress - my go to vintage style because they usually look great on my boobies and flare out over my tummy. The Sandrine has faux button up detail to the front of the dress, which is cute but has the bonus of not gaping. The dress has pockets (yay) with red turnovers, a low neckline, and thick shoulder straps mean you can easily tuck your bra away. </div>
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I am wearing my usual 22, which is a little snug (I always find this the case with Collectif) but that's the biggest size they go up to, so I'm making it work. The fabric also has a little stretch which helps with fit. Interestingly, George (of Fuller Figure Fuller Bust) and I are both wearing size 22s. George and I have completely different body shapes - I carry my weight in my belly and arms and have a broad back and slim legs, George carries hers in her bust, bum and thighs with a slim waist. And yet we are both wearing the same size, which just goes to show how differently clothes can fit depending on your body, and that a dress size doesn't really tell you much. </div>
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The adorable lobster print is obviously the best part. I love how it's a fun take on a nautical theme. This would look really cute with some navy blue to really amp up the seaside vibes. I want to wear it for a day trip to Brighton, or for a super summery barbeque. It's so stand out and fun, which is why I love it. </div>
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Do you have lobster love? Would you indulge in some crustacian print? Have you checked out some of the fab summer prints over on Collectif? Let me know... </div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-23343938681386268272018-05-15T21:09:00.001+01:002018-05-16T13:08:08.877+01:00Boob Revolution 2: Overhauling your bra wardrobe <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2-tV12JMId2OJVZlE25Oc05FEp-uFUHnb_iZ2sSWt9IN3SZDMr4Vmf4FGGq1chXKc1TfmoZib-ADkSg1qO3JPeWXdewk9FuRDTqZE1GeZ-YXuxQg5Nn-OhJgps6pmXjumPHMhx8NJ0VN/s1600/Figleaves+Bra+Fitting+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+Full+Bust+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2-tV12JMId2OJVZlE25Oc05FEp-uFUHnb_iZ2sSWt9IN3SZDMr4Vmf4FGGq1chXKc1TfmoZib-ADkSg1qO3JPeWXdewk9FuRDTqZE1GeZ-YXuxQg5Nn-OhJgps6pmXjumPHMhx8NJ0VN/s640/Figleaves+Bra+Fitting+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+Full+Bust+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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When was the last time you checked out your bra wardrobe, and made sure all your bras still fit, and were still doing their job - keeping those mamaries aloft! In this post I am updating my bra wardrobe - out with the old, in with the new!</div>
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A few years ago I realised (with some horror) that I was wearing the wrong bra size completely. I had always prided myself on knowing about the pitfalls of bra sizing, and that most women are in the incorrect size. So I was mortified when I realised I was just like everyone else, and my boobs were suffering the consequences. I wrote a post about what a <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2015/08/boob-revolution-major-bust-overhauls.html">major bra overhaul did for my boobs</a>, and it's still one of my most popular posts to date. </div>
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I wanted to give you a bit of an update on where I am with my boobs (lol) and the lovely team at <a href="https://www.figleaves.com/uk/plus-size/swimwear/?link=swimwear_tn_plus-size" target="_blank">Figleaves</a> offered me a new bra wardrobe to do just that! It's amazing to think the options now available to those of us with bigger busts, if we just turn to online retailers, instead of the under-served High Street.</div>
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Over the last few years I have started to feel quite differently about my breasts. I thought I would tell you a little bit about that, as well as talk some more about bra fitting and when it's time to part with our bras. </div>
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I have always had a complicated relationship with my boobs. I think a lot of women do. Despite the fact that breasts have a whole other primary purpose beyond titilation, they are certainly the most sexualised of all human body parts. And despite the many shapes and sizes boobies come in, we are constantly shown in the media that there is only really one type of boobs you're meant to have. Perky, bigger than average, even, perfectly formed nipples. And if you're plus size, you better have a big bust, because apparently that's the only okay thing about being a big girl. When my boobs did come in, I felt they weren't perky enough because they didn't give me perfect cleavage in a wonderbra, I worried that they were saggy, and not big enough for the rest of my body. And I always had a long list of things about them I wanted to change. I was ashamed of my breasts, because I just hadn't seen many that didn't look like movie boobs. As I have met more women (particularly plus size women) who I have discussed my body with more openly, I have come to realise just how common my hangups were, and that while I was envious of someone's rack, they were busy envying mine. I was jealous I didn't have the big, heaving, wench cleavage, while some of my bustier friends were jealous that, in fact, my boobs were quite perky (which I had not really realised, which sounds crazy, but because of the way my breasts looked in ill fitting bras I just thought they were sagsville!). Turns out I didn't even know my own body. In the last year I have begun to see my breasts as something good. I have seen some of the positives in them, rather than just deciding they are wrong. And as more and more of my friends have had babies, I guess I have been reminded of their importance beyond how they look in a string bikini top. They are not solely for decoration, and obsessing over the aesthetics of one body part isn't healthy or helpful. </div>
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Changing my bra actually changed my bust. In the last couple of years I have gone up to a dress size 24 and down to a size 20, and now I am a 22 again. While bras have gotten looser or tighter depending on my size, during that time my boobs have gone up a cup size or two (depending on the brand) purely from being properly scooped into a bra that fits me most days (I love a pj day when I can get one, so they're not always encased!). An excerpt from my first bra fitting blog post: </div>
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<i>"You gotta learn the old swoop and scoop. Essentially you want to bend over (swoop) as you're putting your bra on and then scoop everything you got into that cup. The bad news is, if you've been wearing the wrong bra size for a while you probably have some migrated breasts tissue. I know. Terrifying. That tissue is making its way under your arms, towards your back, into your pits and God knows where else. However, the good news - scoop that right up and just pop it back in your bra. It'll go back to where it's meant to be eventually, and hallelujah you may end up going up a cup size. Whoot!"</i></div>
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So some of the bras I was totally devoted to when I did my boob overhaul are now too small. And over time, bras also lose their elasticity and firmness. So they stop doing their jobs as well. I have had a little clear out and added some new beauties to my wardrobe... </div>
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<a href="https://www.figleaves.com/uk/elomi-matilda-underwired-plunge-bra/ELO-007726.html?dwvar_ELO-007726_color=747520&cgid=#q=elomi&lang=en_GB&start=7" target="_blank">Elomi Matilda Underwire Plunge Bra - Figleaves</a></div>
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I think a good nude bra is a must in everyone's collection. The one on top was one of the first properly fitting bras I ever got. However, as my cup size has gone up this bra is now too small. There is overspill on the cups, giving me an unflattering quadra boob. The wire is digging into me, and the bra is squishing my boob down, giving me a flop over line because my boob isn't properly in the cup. Unhappy titties! </div>
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The bottom bra is the Matilda from Elomi, which is a wonderful, comfortable everyday bra. I'm wearing a 40F, and as you can see it fits much better. My boobs are comfortably encased by the cups - my breasts sit at the bottom of the cup, and the gore (that central piece of fabric between the boobs) is sitting flat against my body. No flop over line! </div>
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<a href="https://www.figleaves.com/uk/elomi-tia-underwired-bandless-bra/ELO-008857.html?dwvar_ELO-008857_color=747522&cgid=#q=elomi&lang=en_GB&start=20" target="_blank">Tia Underwired Bandless Bra - Figleaves</a></div>
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The black on top is the same style as the top nude, but in a size bigger. Clearly the fit is better than with the nude, but what's happned from lots of wear is that the top of the cup has stretched out. One boob now sits higher than the other, and the top of the cup is no longer sitting flush against my skin - there is a bit of a gape. Most of the time I opt for a balconette bra (the style of the top bra) as it's the most flattering style on bottom heavy breasts like mine and good for when I am wearing something low cut (which I do a lot), over the last year I have added quite a few full cup bras to my collection. </div>
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A full cup bra, like the Tia pictured here, gives really great support as it incases the whole boob. This is the sort of bra I like to wear when I am travelling, or am going to be running errands or doing house work. The Tia, which I am wearing ina 40F, is even more awesome, as it doesn't have a heavy band below the cups - while it's still supportive it's also super comfortable. I sometimes forget I have this bra on. That's a miracle! </div>
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<a href="https://www.figleaves.com/uk/figleaves-curve-desire-half-cup-balcony-bra/FIG-011340.html?dwvar_FIG-011340_color=750935&cgid=#q=figleaves%2Bcurve&lang=en_GB&start=18" target="_blank">Desire Half Cup Balcony Bra - Figleaves</a></div>
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The top bra was a long time favourite of mine - I love a red bra and I loved the fit of this beauty. One of the major problems with bras is because we wear them all the time I think we just don't realise when they have had their day. They slowly get less and less supportive, firm, elasticy, and we don't realised. So I was putting the top red one on the other day, and I suddenly realise that it's time was done. My boobs look sad and saggy and like it's not doing them any favours at all. The fabric has lost its elasticity, and the straps have stretched out, and the bra is just done. Sometimes we have to say goodbye! </div>
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Lucky for me, I had this FABULOUS racy red number from the Figleaves Curve collection to replace my old friend. I am so impressed with their Curve collection. It is bang on sizing wise (I'm wearing a 40F, my usual size) and the bras are sexy, on trend and supportive. I love the inclusion of the strapping on this beauty. </div>
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<a href="https://www.figleaves.com/uk/figleaves-curve-rose-lace-sculptured-balcony-bra/FIG-010252.html?dwvar_FIG-010252_color=749952&cgid=#q=figleaves%2Bcurve&lang=en_GB&start=51" target="_blank">Rose Lace Sculptured Balcony Bra - Figleaves </a></div>
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So, when was the last time you had a good clear out? Are there some bras past their best? Have you ever tried shopping from Figleaves, who have a load of bigger bust brands in one place? Let me know!</div>
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**This post was sponsored as part of a collaboration with Figleaves, however all opinions are my own**</div>
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Editorial shots by the wonderful <a href="http://www.fashionlovesphotos.com/" target="_blank">Fashion Loves Photos</a>. </div>
<br />HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-6795902334288522942018-05-02T12:30:00.002+01:002018-05-02T18:51:11.395+01:00Real Talk: Why I am glad I was an ugly teenager feat. Studio 8 Embroidered Summer Dress of Dreams <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've got a bit of a combo post for you to today - a review of this beautiful embroidered dress from Studio 8, which is perfect for any summer special occasion or event, and a bit of Real Talk, about why I am glad I was an ugly ass teenager. Yup you heard me right. I'm glad...</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2vAa5N5" target="_blank">Richmond Embroidered Dress by Studio 8 London - Debenhams</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2HJT9tm" target="_blank">Wide Fit Nude Mary Jane Heels - Evans</a></div>
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I don't really feel the need to review this dress, because the pictures in this case very much do it justice - it's pretty much perfect. It fits just right in my usual size (a 22) and is just as high end and beautifully designed as you'd expect from the dream team over at Studio 8 London. It sit’s just over my knee on my 5’8 frame, the cape style sleeves are roomy and won’t get hot, but give me coverage – which is great for those who aren’t loving their arms. The embroidered flowers are a rainbow of colours, meaning you can pick out a number of different hues for your accessories. I opted for a nude shoe and a big pinky red hair flower, but really there are loads of options. I would have liked a slightly fuller skirt to really live me best fairy tale life, however it’s certainly not a deal breaker - if you have a special occasion this summer, you should really consider this dress! That's all! If you want to know how another babe found this dress, then check out my bae George’s review over on<a href="https://fullerfigurefullerbust.com/2018/05/02/in-bloom/" target="_blank"> Fuller Figure Fuller Bust</a> – we are totally different shapes, but we are both IN LOVE.</div>
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<i>Check out my girl George's review <a href="https://fullerfigurefullerbust.com/2018/05/02/in-bloom/" target="_blank">here</a>. </i></div>
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Now that that's out of the way, I wanted to talk about something a little different today. In fact I suppose this could have been part of my Real Talk series. Because that's what it is. It's a bit of real talk. Today I wanted to talk about why I am glad I was an ugly teenager. </div>
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Before I start - I know that really, aesthetics shouldn't matter. I mean really, if we are going to measure core qualities that count - fuck what you look like! The things that really make a person beautiful are kindness, consideration, generosity, compassion, forgiveness, open mindedness, respect. And yet we all know that we live in a world that, initially, values the physical above all else. Conventional beauty, attractiveness, general good looks - these things come with unearned privilege. They make it easier to navigate the world. They make it easier to get along. And for those who have always had a decent dose of good looks, you won’t know just how much easier that makes things. </div>
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I was a cute kid. I was a pretty little girl - I was all golden curls and a button nose. I was cross between Kirsten Dunst in Interview with a Vampire, Shirley Temple and little orphan Annie. My mum says I was one of those kids that people stopped to comment on. I don't remember this, but apparently I was. What I do remember is starting to feel awkward (thanks to societal pressures) about my body as early as six or seven (I have written about my journey with my body <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2015/12/me-and-my-body-our-journey.html">here</a>) but as I hit my teens it became a real issue. And it wasn't just my weight. </div>
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My immediate family have a joke (that I started about 10 years after the worst was over) - I was the World's Ugliest Teenager. Some sort of perfect hormonal storm happened when I was like 13 and everything went haywire. As my face shape matured and changed I seemed to be all nose and chin for a while. My brows grew in with some severe force, and suddenly I looked like the Gallagher sister no one wanted in the band. My hair reacted really badly to the hormones and the humid weather in my hometown and frizzed to fuck. I spent years fighting it and trying to straighten it, only making it worse. My skin went to shit (it wasn't acne, but it was typical teenage skin) and I had pimples on my face, chest and back. My body shape and size changed rapidly - my boobs took ages to come in, but when they did both by boobs and hips came in suddenly, leaving me streaked with red, angry stretch marks, which it took me a long time to be okay with. There was pretty much no market for plus size fashion in South Africa (even when I was a relatively small size 14/16 back in those days) and I wore everything too tight and was usually uncomfortable, because I would rather have been seen to be wearing a smaller dress size than actually wear something that fit (oh Hayley!). </div>
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So yeah, it wasn't great. And sure, it doesn't matter. Looks are fleeting. They give you no idea who that person really is, or what their value is, or whether you might get on. But if you've ever been on the lower end of the physical attractiveness scale you'll know that looks matter. They really fucking matter. Because they dictate how, or even if, people speak to you. And sure that probably makes those people not worth talking to, but try telling that to a teenager. Teenagers are cruel and deeply self-conscious - they don't want to be associated with fat and ugly. And it shows. </div>
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So why oh why would I say I wanted to talk about why I am glad I was a ugly teenager? Because goddamn when you're ugly as fuck you pretty quick figure out your other strengths, and find other ways to make people like you! For me, I developed a lethal sense of humour. I am constantly told how I come across as super sweet and nice on my blog (I think it's just the pictures - when you have curls and tend to smile, I think you look nicer than you really are) but if you have met me in real life you probably quickly realised that I swear like a sailor, and am sharp as a whip where wit is involved. I developed a sharp, wicked sense of humour as both a defence mechanism and my saving grace. I had to be funny. Being funny meant people wanted to be around me, wanted to be my friend. And it meant I could protect myself (and other unfortunates) against bullies and assholes who always had something to say about my weight, my looks, my skin, whatever. It meant that in a second I could have them wishing they'd never made their (usually pretty fucking lame) remark. At school it meant people would prefer I was their friend, because they didn't want to be at the receiving end of one of my quips. So yeah, I was probably going to be funny anyway, but thanks to being ugly I’m quick and funny as fuck. </div>
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To me two of the most important characteristics someone can have is being interested and interesting. They need to show interest in things - the world, history, other people, me. And they need to be interesting. Because when you show interest in things you learn things, and this in turn makes you interesting. No one was giving me a free pass for being pretty, so I used what I was good at. And that's my brain – I realised early that it was okay to be smart and to want to know things. And I am good at communicating and making people feel like I hear and understand them. And that is always useful. And always valuable. It has stood me in good stead, and is probably the reason that to this day my life is filled with wonderful people.</div>
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I’m glad I was ugly because I was bullied. Bullying is fucking horrible. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. It is the most isolating and horrid thing in the world. And I am aware I certainly didn't get the worst of it. But it means I know what it is - I recognise it. I can sympathise with those experiencing it, because I have been there. And I will not tolerate it. Ever. I find it abhorrent. And if I see it in someone else, that's it. I'm done with them. </div>
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I also see through bullshit. I know what it is to be the person no one wants to get stuck talking to, no one wants to dance with, no one wants to date. And so I can sense insincerity a mile off. I know when people are just making nice because they want something, or they haven't seen anyone else they want to talk to yet, or are purely being polite but scouting the room for a hot girl, or a cooler influencer. And I don't give one shit. I don't do ass kissing where it's not warranted. I don't change myself (EVER) to make people like me. And I won’t give those sorts of people my time and energy. Because the ugly girl that still lives inside me knows they wouldn’t have given me their time 15-20 years ago.</div>
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What I learned about myself in those years is that I don't have to be pretty to be liked. I don't have to wear cool clothes, I don't have to be a size 8, I don't have to have flawless skin or perky boobs for people to love me. That I am enough of a package without good looks. Because I am funny, and smart, and kind and considerate - the things that really matter - if I look objectively attractive for a few years that's just the cherry on top. But I am still one helluva sundae. I think it's why, although I have fought with my body of the years, I can handle being fat. I can love all the extra of me that there is to love. Because I know it doesn't matter. Because I know it doesn't mean I am not amazing and awesome. And I know that the fat isn't going to drive away the people who really matter. Because if I could find people to love me and want to know me and hang out with me when I was the World's ugliest teenager then I will be fine. Because right now I feel pretty damn fine. And since I started my blog, I have realised that, while I am not the prettiest girl out there, I am certainly blessed with a certain amount of objective attractiveness - and that comes with its own privileges. It's an unearned step up. It's a luck. But I know it could go just as quickly. So I know it's not to be relied upon. And it will never be all I have or am...</div>
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** Photos taken at the picturesque <a href="http://sugnall.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sugnall Hal</a>l**</div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-66724732830457520012018-04-29T02:13:00.000+01:002018-04-29T02:13:54.403+01:00What I've been wearing lately: March and April 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cDlpKilMfIig1P-ll3gWYiUCaG2BaJY_VhYSPMmlpM3x4grOGTouOKNG0RMpW8XGt3tWMuoUhwG-sVteskEqSlbPJhc2qSKDRsnfh6yknXGSqDP115tVm6GSGnN8g6Emr6hQgI6z8Pqp/s1600/IMG-2098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cDlpKilMfIig1P-ll3gWYiUCaG2BaJY_VhYSPMmlpM3x4grOGTouOKNG0RMpW8XGt3tWMuoUhwG-sVteskEqSlbPJhc2qSKDRsnfh6yknXGSqDP115tVm6GSGnN8g6Emr6hQgI6z8Pqp/s640/IMG-2098.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In the last two months we have pretty much experienced every season. We even got a mini blast of summer here in London a few weeks ago. So I have had every find of outfit - from fur trimmed coats, to sleeveless dresses with sandals. Madness. I have also started working full time again, and found some lovely new colleagues who don't make me feel massively awkward and weird about asking them to take pictures of what I am wearing every day! So there is a lot more #ootd happening over on instagram now, so make sure you are following me to see all my looks. I think I say this often, but I still love doing these posts because it shows what I am wearing on a daily basis. And while when I pick the pictures to go in it I tend to try and showcase new stuff, you can see what I am wearing most often (lived in my faux leather jacket and my leopard pumps this month), and what gets rotated back into my wardrobe a lot. Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr04OR4MPWEmJScr05VdWqyiIUmYbgD00ZEn0lFNN5CODrcjT6rx9vQfzgmjqVWjN3PydcJiWWIA88i-d7ia_k7jEcRKYp1JMYj5q575jjgEDskOHf4Ry7gWv8JqR6EY67iiy4pZVPhjKV/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr04OR4MPWEmJScr05VdWqyiIUmYbgD00ZEn0lFNN5CODrcjT6rx9vQfzgmjqVWjN3PydcJiWWIA88i-d7ia_k7jEcRKYp1JMYj5q575jjgEDskOHf4Ry7gWv8JqR6EY67iiy4pZVPhjKV/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25287%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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Black Bow Headband - Etsy</div>
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Leopard Print Pumps - ASOS (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2Jg772h" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2HS8hS8" target="_blank">City Chic Black Tulle Skirt - Evans</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span id="goog_1219532971"></span>Black Keyhole Top - Collectif <span id="goog_1219532972"></span></a></div>
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Wore this to an Elomi event (they make my favourite bras for plus size big busted ladies!) and felt cute and sexy - my fave aesthetic combo! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76LMHfdEq_EmY12TUNj2HLbP7taakaHaUR8oN_S4u5QTZ-o7NqUaMtS3RjID2U6eECsRZQx9iKhXmT5GJgzCr6bCBxf9k4oS5KD5PCQ86TpqPpc10Nrn2Qnw3-ScIm5H_c3xN3_VUXy4k/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76LMHfdEq_EmY12TUNj2HLbP7taakaHaUR8oN_S4u5QTZ-o7NqUaMtS3RjID2U6eECsRZQx9iKhXmT5GJgzCr6bCBxf9k4oS5KD5PCQ86TpqPpc10Nrn2Qnw3-ScIm5H_c3xN3_VUXy4k/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25289%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2HlEeRE" target="_blank">Boohoo Floral Midi Dress - ASOS</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Black Faux Leather Jacket - Marks and Spencer</a></div>
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I am living in this leather jacket at the moment (as you'll see). From Marks and Spencer - it's perfectly cut and has a stretch panel built in which means it really contours to your shape perfectly. I sized down because I wanted a snug fit. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVWvBmVbadO781W9T_z58euA4X-_zmg3ONWJlD1964oc1UFaM_cAGKkTgmmeyEJ8GkgqdJf-32E66XO__5Ac5uchyphenhyphenz6t3uTarhYKcmoOKkpQmUZ6r6Qcz046eiWE86DqN7y-ZxErn8xzM/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVWvBmVbadO781W9T_z58euA4X-_zmg3ONWJlD1964oc1UFaM_cAGKkTgmmeyEJ8GkgqdJf-32E66XO__5Ac5uchyphenhyphenz6t3uTarhYKcmoOKkpQmUZ6r6Qcz046eiWE86DqN7y-ZxErn8xzM/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25285%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Black Faux Leather Jacket - Marks and Spencer</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/embroidered-sweatshirt/kr178/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:Black,size:" target="_blank">Embroidered Sweatshirt - Simply Be</a></div>
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Black Tulle Skirt - ASOS (sold out, see similar in above outfit)</div>
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Embroidered Boots - Evans (sold out)</div>
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This was my look for taking my mum out for Mother's Day lunch and a wander around the Science Museum (yes we are geeky!). I loved matching the boots with my embroidered sweatshirt from Simply Be, and leaving the rest black. And I'm wearing another tulle skirt, because girl loves herself a tulle skirt! It's one of those novelty items for me - they never used to make me in plus size, so I still get excited whenever I see one! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2Hnxwuu" target="_blank">City Chic Pink Make Me Blush Coat - Evans</a></div>
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Basically the only reason I am glad the winter went on much longer than usual this year is this coat. It's a luxurious, pink dream! </div>
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Black Lace Prom Dress - River Island (<a href="http://bit.ly/2r7iwL8" target="_blank">similar in red</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2r7WGHv" target="_blank">Green Feather Statement Earrings - Accessorize</a></div>
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Wide Fit Leopard Print Pumps - ASOS (<a href="http://bit.ly/2JBE4GO" target="_blank">similar here</a>)</div>
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This black lace dress was from the very first season of River Island's plus range, and I still think it's one of the best things they've ever done. So I was THRILLED when I saw they have a very <a href="http://bit.ly/2r7iwL8" target="_blank">similar style in red</a> this season. Snap it up before they're gone! I wore this with my new fave feathered earrings for a day when I had to go from work in the day to a burlesque show in the evening, and I think it worked pretty well. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC_NQILCxYqMf8u8JmgdlVbdMIJKVPpPQZTLAlAbXev1bsGm34rvkFtKHueKRXLqw15-aR98KsFHgesHAqCT4kA0znK45VB_RcBy79iF_Kle0DCqng68oXQ6Cyo5EFEp3ICtKiHkmx4FJ/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC_NQILCxYqMf8u8JmgdlVbdMIJKVPpPQZTLAlAbXev1bsGm34rvkFtKHueKRXLqw15-aR98KsFHgesHAqCT4kA0znK45VB_RcBy79iF_Kle0DCqng68oXQ6Cyo5EFEp3ICtKiHkmx4FJ/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%25284%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.navabi.co.uk/product/oversized-polka-dot-top-48985/?colorcode=0200" target="_blank">Zhenzi Oversized Polkadot Top - Navabi</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.studio-eight.com/fcp/product/studio8/trousers-&-skirts/eleanor-leggings/139992351" target="_blank">Navy Blue Leggings - Studio 8 London</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.widecalfbootsstore.co.uk/jj-footwear-alexandria-ocean-calf-size-xl" target="_blank">Alexandria Ocean Boots - Wide Calf Boot Store</a></div>
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This oversized top from Navabi is everything. It looks way pricier than it actually is, it's a total bold statement, and most excitingly - it's comfy AF. Yassss! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2F6CMB1" target="_blank">Lilac Smock Dress - Elvi</a></div>
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Embroidered Boots - Evans (sold out)</div>
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I love me a short dress, but I think maybe its not something that a lot of plus women like, so I don't see them as often as I would like. This one is perfect - cute colour, amazing design, and short length. Love it. Plus they have it in green too, so I might have to invest in another. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Black Faux Leather Jacket - Marks and Spencer</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2JfSw6X" target="_blank">City Chic Floral Maxi Dress - Evans</a></div>
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Here I am again in my fave jacket. This time paired with this floaty floral maxi, to give it a little more edge. I love City Chic maxi dresses, and at the moment they are on sale, so check them out at the link above. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhrAHUZpDWqA3CP35yYSI-yYaXxjey5LOVQ6k57gMtFEuwVhdH5T63LYU2HYPYVdI4UzxcGm7ql_UnQG6nPSNKRTtnZVPTUPMF_dbA_AZ8OAgtA-DQzeoCqZ48-h3dHrCaNCrXv4sbWip/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhrAHUZpDWqA3CP35yYSI-yYaXxjey5LOVQ6k57gMtFEuwVhdH5T63LYU2HYPYVdI4UzxcGm7ql_UnQG6nPSNKRTtnZVPTUPMF_dbA_AZ8OAgtA-DQzeoCqZ48-h3dHrCaNCrXv4sbWip/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%252810%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.lililatigresse.com/" target="_blank">Boho Dress - Lili La Tigresse</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2JeaJlC" target="_blank">Nude Heeled Shoes - Evans</a></div>
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The lovely lot at French plus size site Lili La Tigresse contacted me a little while ago, and offered to send me some pieces. When I saw this dress my heart soared. I was a boho chick for a long time, and this peasant style dress, along with the colour and full skirt really appealed to me. I wanted to save it for something special so wore it for dinner with my family on my birthday, and I felt super pretty. </div>
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<a href="https://www.collectif.co.uk/clothes-c1/dolores-tropical-bird-doll-dress-p7422" target="_blank">Tropical Bird Dolores Doll Dress - Collectif</a></div>
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Jelly Shoes - Crocs (yes, seriously, but they're long sold out)</div>
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Y'all know I love a Dolores Doll, and this beautiful tropical pattern was absolutely perfect for the crazy sudden summer we had mid April. It has toucans and lovebirds on it - enough said! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Black Faux Leather Jacket - Marks and Spencer</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/sequin-lips-t-shirt/wv305/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:Grey%20Marl,size:" target="_blank">Sequin Lips Tee - Simply Be</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/chloe-ripped-knee-skinny-jeans-regular-length/vz375/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:Indigo,size:" target="_blank">Chloe Ripped Knee Skinny Jeans - Simply Be</a></div>
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The seldom spotted dress down Hayley... This is what I wore for my little road trip with George (of Fuller Figure Fuller Bust) to Sugnall Hall for a weekend of photoshoots. The Chloe jeans are so soft and stretchy it's pretty close to wearing leggings, so they're great for a car journey, and the tee is comfy yet faaaaabulous. My fave combo! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2JAthfP" target="_blank">Lost & Ink Chiffon and Satin Dress - Navabi</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Black Faux Leather Jacket - Marks and Spencer</a></div>
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Lace up Boots - Topshop (old AF, sorry)</div>
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I need to take another picture of this dress where I am not covering up the sleeves, because they are epic! But this is another shorter dress I am really happy to have added to my collection. It's really pretty, but really easy to wear and perfect for work. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFuIM2wHuek8HVWOEmFLvggyUbif60gJqTJ8gGlEV5PAAeEqSNjnp9HfIy50m2yhs8cksB3gLDO1KbtTDa5X2QOxzyvTEBHBe3e_2wDGc8AMJXHDoWVjVmYZ7iXepht_5D9g6jOuT5z3a/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFuIM2wHuek8HVWOEmFLvggyUbif60gJqTJ8gGlEV5PAAeEqSNjnp9HfIy50m2yhs8cksB3gLDO1KbtTDa5X2QOxzyvTEBHBe3e_2wDGc8AMJXHDoWVjVmYZ7iXepht_5D9g6jOuT5z3a/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+What+I+Wore+Plus+Size+Fashion++%252815%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/lovedrobe-grecian-midi-dress/ep694/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:Yellow,size:" target="_blank">Lovedrobe Grecian Midi Dress - Simply Be</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2r6aXnU" target="_blank">Block Heel Sandals - Evans</a></div>
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Oh hi summer! This was me just a few short weeks ago, loving the sudden burst of hot weather. Look at that blue sky! Loving this lemon yellow Lovedrobe dress - it's super pretty and summery. A quick tip though, maybe size down, as I found it very roomy. </div>
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Inc Velvet Jacket - Macy's (<a href="http://bit.ly/2EHmAd0" target="_blank">black still available</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2jeVjT5" target="_blank">City Chic Black Pixi Skirt - Evans</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/pippa-pointed-ballerina-extra-wide-eee-fit/fq702/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:,size:" target="_blank">Black Ballerina Pumps - Simply Be</a> </div>
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I love adding a bit of whimsy to my outfits, for all occassions. This pixie skirt does just that, and damn do I love a bit of tulle. I paired it with these darling (and comfy) ballet pumps and a jacket I have been waiting ages to wear - it's from Macy's in the states and my sister in law was kind enough to bring it back from me on a recent visit, but it's absolutely gorgeous and I think well worth the import duty if you fancy it! </div>
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Leopard Print Shirt - ASOS (sold out)</div>
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<a href="https://www.voodoovixen.co.uk/sandy-black-full-circle-plus-size-skirt.html" target="_blank">Black Full Circle Skirt - Voodoo Vixen</a></div>
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Wide Fit Leopard Print Pumps - ASOS (<a href="http://bit.ly/2JBE4GO" target="_blank">similar here</a>)</div>
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Sadly this amazing shirt is sold out - I love its Peg Bundy / Tiki Vegas vibes! But the black circle skirt is not, and it's amazingly full and made with a great fabric of perfect weight. I think it's going to be a very useful item for years to come. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTo_2fqT8qtwV9uBaWUTK9ZxB6xgyFnmYm_EXNnpwP25fONI36hKxqLYCuboyg2CnSrFZlSC8DXcraGf5BfuKsQs8E94HQ91jnrBAfo6AwKgwKgU-K0RWUOSfR8t6UVBPddCqh4NYAREz/s1600/IMG-2073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTo_2fqT8qtwV9uBaWUTK9ZxB6xgyFnmYm_EXNnpwP25fONI36hKxqLYCuboyg2CnSrFZlSC8DXcraGf5BfuKsQs8E94HQ91jnrBAfo6AwKgwKgU-K0RWUOSfR8t6UVBPddCqh4NYAREz/s640/IMG-2073.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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Gorgeously Gothic Lyra Dress - Lady V London (shop other Lyras <a href="http://bit.ly/2HAytUz" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Black Faux Leather Jacket - Marks and Spencer</a></div>
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Wide Fit Leopard Print Pumps - ASOS (<a href="http://bit.ly/2JBE4GO" target="_blank">similar here</a>)</div>
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It's rare I get through one of these posts without a Lyra appearing. Here's me in one of my fave prints. But Lady V always have amazing new stock coming in and they do gorgeous florals for summer so go <a href="http://bit.ly/2HAytUz" target="_blank">check them out</a>... </div>
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That's it darlings! What have you been wearing lately? Let me know... </div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-52238674880362150802018-04-22T22:05:00.002+01:002018-04-22T22:05:22.228+01:00Flapping at Sugnall: Gatsby Lady Vegas Fringe Dress in Black and Gold<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfUPOAnDBycDZbGMinZa3ZJEOa3GpVnif4ZldawermBDbiB_0CTdhMIFHrSTV1hnTcq9Y4ry3uJ4cbz-ai9bu7vqZTtuXNigAYk0LKI7sAgfU8g5yQTUtnzloXr_wh83DsmBex7G44oYi/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+Black+Gold+Gatsby+Lady+Plus+Size+Flapper+Dress+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfUPOAnDBycDZbGMinZa3ZJEOa3GpVnif4ZldawermBDbiB_0CTdhMIFHrSTV1hnTcq9Y4ry3uJ4cbz-ai9bu7vqZTtuXNigAYk0LKI7sAgfU8g5yQTUtnzloXr_wh83DsmBex7G44oYi/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+Black+Gold+Gatsby+Lady+Plus+Size+Flapper+Dress+%25288%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The lovely lot at <a href="https://www.gatsbylady.com/" target="_blank">Gatsby Lady</a> sent me this luscious plus size flapper dress a little while ago, but I saved if for my trip to Sugnall Hall last weekend because I couldn't think of a better location to shoot it in. </div>
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Last weekend I got to hangout with some of my very fave plus size lasses and photographers at the exquisite Sugnall Hall. It was all part of a shooting weekend I organised - basically it's where a bunch of creatives come together (photographers, models, fashion designers / brands, hair and makeup artists) and work together in a collaboration. And we got to do all of this at the most magical house I have ever stayed in. Hopefully in the coming weeks and months I will be able to show you lots of things we shot, but in the mean time I thought I would give you a little sneak peak inside the Chinese Drawing Room (one of my very favourite rooms in the house). However if you are looking for someone to hold a special event, like a wedding or a family reunion, or somewhere to do an amazing photoshoot, you really should check out <a href="http://sugnall.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sugnall Hall</a>. It is ridiculously beautiful! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRjc4kqm7Bx_B-sqIk-Ph_vL9WSHkDBqIObja7kGEbHpg0U2BZUd4AWhUJdErWGBfjF_syKXFA1pw5iUafphExmGYvS1cvh6bfqpPI4n47YsIc3ex_jU8iPPgF6DMf6gcA3j1fHfKZl4a/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+UK+Black+Gold+Gatsby+Lady+Plus+Size+Flapper+Dress+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRjc4kqm7Bx_B-sqIk-Ph_vL9WSHkDBqIObja7kGEbHpg0U2BZUd4AWhUJdErWGBfjF_syKXFA1pw5iUafphExmGYvS1cvh6bfqpPI4n47YsIc3ex_jU8iPPgF6DMf6gcA3j1fHfKZl4a/s640/Curves+n+Curls+UK+Black+Gold+Gatsby+Lady+Plus+Size+Flapper+Dress+%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.gatsbylady.com/vegas-fringe-dress-in-black-gold-plus-size.html" target="_blank">Vegas Fringe Dress in Black and Gold - Gatsby Lady</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.gatsbylady.com/eliza-vintage-inspired-flapper-headband-in-black-silver.html" target="_blank">Eliza Flapper Headband - Gatsby Lady</a></div>
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Black T Bar Shoes - Evans (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2Jet5Tl" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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So here I am in the Drawing Room. These pics were snapped very quickly on the Monday morning (after three full days of shooting - I was totally knackered). So you'll have to excuse the fact I didn't move around a lot. You will also have to excuse the fact that I was so knackered that I didn't realise I hadn't put the black slip on under this dress. Which I am kinda pleased with. It never ocurred to me before that I could wear it without the slip. But here I am in my nude bra and my nude contral pants, and I am kinda liking the nude allusion and how much lighter the dress looks without the black slip underneath - I do love it when a cock up works out! </div>
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I always size up in Lady Gatsby (you can read my first review of them <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2016/10/Gatsby-Lady-Emerald-Flapper-Dress.html">here</a>) and so here I am wearing a size 24 which works really well, and I may well have been able to get into my usual size 22 but I like having a bit of room to play with in this sort of a style. The dress is heavily sequined and patterned with black and gold beads. The fringing to the bottom of the skirt means it has gorgeous movement and looks authentic and incredibly luxurious. It comes with a gorgeous embellished headband which I love. </div>
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What I adore about Gatsby Lady is that their dresses really are vintage resproduction done well. There is nothing that looks like fancy dress here. These are certainly dresses for special occassions, and I think the quality is incredibly high end. And really impressive considering the price. </div>
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I paired the dress simply with the headband, and some plain back T-bar heels - it really doesn't need anything else. Now someone PLEASE throw a Gatsby themed party so I have a reason to wear it... Oh okay, I will then! </div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-36215630932094959512018-03-26T23:04:00.000+01:002018-03-26T23:04:14.851+01:00Real Talk: Being a woman on the internet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I promise regular programming will soon return, so if you're here for fashion check out my latest posts <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2018/03/what-ive-been-wearing-lately-january.html" target="">here</a> and <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2018/03/walking-in-snow-studio-8-gingham-wrap.html">here</a>. </div>
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For those of you still with me... today I need to have a bit of a rant. Because the last few weeks have seen a serious ramp up in the number of cocks finding their way into my inbox and the number of filthy, disrespctful messages I received, and the amount of assholes I've had to deal with who thought they could call me 'boo' or 'honey' or 'baby'. And I've had <u>ENOUGH</u>! </div>
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Being a woman on the internet is tough. In fact being a woman on the internet can be downright horrid. Since I began blogging I have received a constant stream of online sexual harrassment. It trickles into my emails, my Facebook messages, my Twitter feed, my Instagram comments, and worst of all my Instagram direct messages. They are insidious. Ever present. Revolting. They come rain or shine, from across the world. And they come from men.</div>
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Male readers are never something I have looked for, and in fact I frequently block the ones whose accounts look in any way dodgy. Often, when I have had a particularly rough time of it, I just block any new men who follow me. But some of them do slip through. I also don't want to ban by gender. Some of the men who read my blog are my most thoughtful and engaged readers, and have never done anything inappropriate. But, my content is intended for a female audience. My more provocative or sensual content is also meant for women - it is not meant to titilate but to add to the growing canon of this sort of imagery of plus size women. It is a reaction to years spent feeling like I wasn't allowed to be or feel sexy or sensual. And I know I'm not alone in these feelings, and I know there aren't enough of these images - particularly of certain body types / shapes. I am creating the sort of content I long wanted to see to sort through my relationship with my own body. I am clear on what I am doing and why I am doing it. And I try to be clear about this in my posts, and in how I pitch my content. And yet a small part of me can't help but feel like I might be courting sexual attention from men. That it's to be expected. That "men will be men". And that this is just something I have to learn to live with and put up with if I am going to continue to share those sorts of images (or indeed any images it seems). </div>
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But no! I’m not going to accept it. I am secure in the reason I make / share the content I do. And no matter what content I am making or sharing, I know that the way I am treated online would never be okay. </div>
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And saying this behaviour is to be expected of men... <u>Horseshit!</u> Giving some deviant creeps a free pass, and saying men are like this. No! There are many, many men (the vast majority in fact) who would never behave in an inappropriate way. And who are totally confounded by men who do. When we say "that's just how men are" we are pulling all these decent guys into that category. And we are taking away responsibility for their actions from the assholes who are behaving like this by forgiving them on the basis of their gender. No! We will not lessen the shame around violating women on the internet. Because it is that shame and horror and disgust that signifies that this behaviour is not okay. And may well be preventing others in engaging in it. If we sweep it away as something unavoidable and inherently male, then we are almost forgiving it as an accident of biology. One more time... No! </div>
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So what behaviour are we talking about here? Well, I am not so naive to believe that there might not be people out there who, shall we say, get a certain amount of satisfaction or pleasure from *ahem* viewing my images. And I am not the <i>thought police</i>. We are all turned on by a multitude of things and the media we might use to *ahem* stimulate is collected from all over the place. Loads of unwitting celebrities, strangers, hell even friends have been safely tucked away in my wank bank for a rainy day. Not that I tend to need actual images - mental pictures and imagined scenarios do just fine. So really - no shade here people. We all do it. So if some of my images are used for this - whatever. This is not me bigging myself up. This is me just knowing that all sorts of things float all sorts of boats, and I’m sure I float someone’s. So - on an intellectual level, I am aware that this probably happens. </div>
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What I object to is being violated. That violation occurs when someone brings me into their sex act. Makes me a part of it. A picture of me that’s inspires someone’s lust is not me. It’s just pixels. A string of ones and zeroes. That has nothing to do with me. I am simply the subject. And I willingly put that image into the world, knowing it would travel far and wide. So if that image is what you need to get you off - I don't give a shit. Go for it. What I <b>DO NOT</b> want, and <b>SHOULD NOT</b> have to experience is being part of someone's fantasy, someone's sex act, someone's wank. </div>
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This violation I speak of can occur in numerous ways, but it usually means finding a way to include me in a fanstasy or sex act, usually in one of the following ways - </div>
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1. Someone tells me what they are planning to do / what they have done as a result of my image. They are telling me this because it gets them off to do so. A small part of them is perhaps hoping I react favourably, but the telling is what has already delivered the thrill. As soon as that message is opened I have been violated. And I know that there is no way I can react that will give me the upper hand in this situation. As soon as I’ve read it, they’ve won. If I block them (which I do) they still know it got through to me and I saw it. If I lambaste them and give them hell, I run the risk that that’s exactly what they want too. A lot of people get off on being shamed (no judgement - if this is a consensual arrangement then you get yours), and some people who enjoy being humiliated lurk on the internet where they can shock people with anonymous impunity, because let’s face it - there are very few consequences to this sort of behaviour. </div>
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The other day a young guy popped into my DMs. Apparently he’d messaged me before with an innocuous message that I’d replied to, but I didn’t remember the conversation. This time he was responding to a picture I’d posted on my insta stories. First he told me he hated me (?!) so I replied saying excuse me you don’t even know me. Then he replied saying he hated me because he had just "jizzed in his pants over my picture". Yes he said that. Then when I took him to task and said “That’s revolting! How do you think that’s an appropriate way to speak to another human being - unsolicited!” he told me he was just joking and it was his “under cover way of saying you’re beautiful” and that he doesn’t usually talk like that. What? I don’t give a shit. You talked to me like that. You thought you could. Why??? What would give you the impression that I would be open or receptive to that. In fact I don’t care what signals you thought I was giving off - I wasn’t. And until I say “talk dirty to me” don’t say that shit to me. Ever. Sure he's just a little idiot on the internet. But he's one of hundreds I have dealt with since starting my blog.</div>
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2. Someone sends me a graphic image - usually depicting a sex act. I’m not a prude. Really. But just like anyone else I have boundaries of what I do and don’t want to see. I also have very strict boundaries of who I want to share it with me. Some of the things I have been sent I never would have wanted to see. Would never have sought out. But I was given no choice. Sending someone a pornographic image without their consent is assault. Do not send someone a pornographic image unsolicited. </div>
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3. Someone sends me a picture of their genitalia. I don’t think there’s a woman I know who is unfamiliar with the ubiquitous dick pic. First and foremost - no one should ever send an unsolicited picture of their genitals to someone else. If you think someone wants one (and be fucking sure here buddy!) ask before you click send. For god’s sake - just check. </div>
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When I first started to receive these sorts of images I admit to being grossed out, but partially amused. The penis, in my opinion, is a particularly ridiculous looking organ at the best of times. And unless it is a penis that belongs to someone that I want to be intimate with it’s never going to inspire lust or awe! Quite the opposite. It usually prompts scorn. So tee hee to these ugly naked mole rats that kept appearing in my inbox. However, those early days of mild amusement at the desperation of some men have since turned to revulsion and hatred. Every unwanted penis that pops into my DMs feels aggressive. Feels filthy. Feels like an attack. Again, it's just the sheer volume. The knowing that there will be more tomorrow. The knowing that someone thought it was okay to send you that. Disregarded your feelings, didn't imagine you as a fully fledged human being with rights and agency. Instead just sent you something they know is not okay - because they wanted to. For them. </div>
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4. Someone sends me graphic or demeaning messages. These usually revolve around what this person would like to do to me. Or me to do to him (it’s always a him). Or what he’d like to see me do. They are graphic. They frequently make zero sense. And they are sometimes accompanied by pornographic pictures illustrations. You know, just to drive the point home. They usually involve a lot of talk of body parts and semen. If I don't reply they sometimes turn ugly - nasty violent things. Demeaning comments. In fact that's the case with all of the above. Some of them assume I am an escort. Many ask me for a fee. Because obviously any woman just existing on the internet (these are not necessarily response to lingerie pictures which in the grand scheme of things I post very seldom) is there to serve men, even if it is for a price.</div>
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So, this is what is lurking in my direct messages on Instagram. On a daily basis. This is what I come across when screening my DMs for messages from actual people who follow me to talk about fashion and body confidence and mental health. I won’t stop checking my messages - because I want to engage with the people who are there for legitimate reasons. And I shouldn’t have to stop checking my messages. </div>
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I am so sick of being subjected to the sexual whims of men. I am tired of flinching when I open another disgusting message. I am tired of trying to think of ways I can limit the number of these messages I get. I am tired of men thinking I owe them a response to a comment or a message. I am tired of feeling raw and exposed. Like the slightest thing will set me off because I am cup that is so fucking full, one more drop and I will spill over with rage and exhaustion and sorrow. Because I sometimes can't believe there are that many men who think this behaviour is okay. Because I feel violated. Over and over and over again. Because I know this is not who men are - I know loads of lovely, wonderful, compassionate, brilliant, beautiful, respectful men. And yet, I can feel myself hardening. Developing an over sensitivity from prolonged exposure to perverts (and fucking penises). Losing my sense of humour, and on constant guard for creeps. And I don't like being like this. It doesn't sit well with me. And it makes me sad that experience and the constant cock onslaught is doing this to me.</div>
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It's not the worst thing. I know this. There are truly terrible things happening to women all over the world. And an inbox chock full of cocks is hardly up there with them. But it is an indicator to me of how far there is still to go, even in our comparitively priviledged Western bubble. And those sad little phalluses are a constant reminder that life on the internet is different and indeed harder (see what I did there) for a woman. </div>
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Images by Diana of <a href="http://www.fashionlovesphotos.com/" target="_blank">Fashion Loves Photos</a>. </div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-67053667844043436202018-03-12T22:17:00.001+00:002018-03-13T13:53:16.237+00:00Real Talk: Hayley the Impostor<div style="text-align: center;">
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**TW / CW - mental health, anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome**<br />
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This will always be a style blog where you can come for a bit of fatshion inspo and some body positive pep talks, but I have been wanting to grow my blog for a while now - to focus a bit more on 'real talk'. This year I want to talk a little more about my experiences. Particularly with mental health. Since the birth of Curves n Curls (some three years ago) and way before that, I have battled some serious mental health demons. I have posted about this once or twice, but I haven't written much of significance. Mainly because the last three years have been about survival. I didn't know how to write about a lot of this stuff when I was in the middle of it.<br />
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There are also a lot of posts out there that discuss what it's like to struggle with certain issues - and I think they are incredible, because they allow people to really relate and feel like they aren't alone. But when I was really ill I found that most of the mental health content I found was really based either around sharing experiences or learning to cope, rather than overcome. And I wanted solutions. I wanted to hear from people who had fought these battles and won. Because I wanted so badly to get better, but I just didn't know how or if it was even possible.<br />
<a name='more'></a>I know I will never be completely, 100% free. The spectre of the black dog will always be with me, and keeping well will be a life long struggle. Of this I have no doubt. But I have learned some things that have really changed the odds. Some things that mean it is a fairer fight. And I want to use my blog to share that with other people who are suffering, and looking for ways to fight back.<br />
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**Please note - I don't have any qualifications. I have no proof that things that work for me will work for anyone else. Some of the things that pulled me out of that long, dark winter might not be the right fit for you. But even if they aren't its important to read the stories of those who have fought and won. Those who continue to resist. And if you are really struggling or are thinking of harming yourself or others, you need to contact a mental health professional urgently or call the <a href="https://www.samaritans.org/" target="_blank">Samaritans</a>.**<br />
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So, yesterday I let my guard down on my instagram stories. Social media tends to be a very one sided account of life as a human. My social media profiles do tend to be a positive place - even in real life I am very very adept at hiding my mental illness. But in an attempt to live my life on social media with more authenticity, where helpful I am going to try and share my experiences of the ups and downs of my mental health (and believe me, all people have peaks and troughs in their mental health). So, I discussed my anxiety and my battle with impostor syndrome. Impostor syndrome is a <i>'concept describing individuals who are marked by an inability to internalize their accomplishments and a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud".'</i> Welcome to my inner world.<br />
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Now, at this point I think it should be mentioned that social media has only made impostor syndrome worse. This parade of people's achievements and amazing dinners, incredible holidays, promotions and wonderful relationships, gym selfies and fucking granola flat lays is just another part of the capitalist machine - which exists purely to make us feel shit about ourselves so we buy crap we don't need. You know it. It also makes it seem like everyone else has their shit together.<br />
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And so, while you steady your panic attack ridden hands long enough to take an artful photo of your morning flat white beside a novel you've only managed to read four pages of, you feeling like a total fucking sham. Never mind the bitch next to you is doing the exact same thing, and half of the influencers you follow have one instagrammable wall in their shitty flat and a piece of faux marble they use to shoot all their beauty products on, and everywhere else is a pigsty of unwashed pants and used coffee cups. Never mind all that - because there is a total prick of a voice in your head that is convincing you that you are the only one that doesn't have their shit together. And worse still either everyone knows, or everyone is about to find out.<br />
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When things in my life (usually sub consciously) start to cause me anxiety a lot of things happen as a result. My sleep gets worse, my concentration levels deteriorate, my temper gets shorter, my depression begins to loom. And that snarky little voice in the back of my head that says 'you're not good enough' suddenly gets a PA system. They almost always come together - my anxiety and the self doubt. That voice has lots of shit to say, but it’s all variations on the same theme. It’s all cruel and undermining. It can all be adapted to fit just about any situation. And it all revolves around the idea that I am useless and worthless and unlovable and a fraud. Fun.<br />
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We all have one of those voices I think – it tends to turn up when we’re feeling particularly vulnerable or insecure. Mine was strong for a very long time. It is fuelled by anxiety, depression, insomnia – and in the last 10 years it has had a fuck-load of fuel. The lower I get, the louder it shouts. Until no amount of positive reinforcement or reality can drown out it’s twisted narrative of me as a total and utter failure. A loathsome creature who does not deserve friends of family, love or kindness.<br />
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Those thoughts tend to sound something like this – <i>You are a loser. No one likes you. Everyone knows you’re an idiot. You’re not fooling anyone. You’re not talented / intelligent / good at what you do, you’re just lucky. You’re ugly. No one could ever love you. People are just friends with you out of pity. You will always be unhappy because you deserve it. They’re all going to find out you’re a fake. They’re all talking about you. You don't deserve more than this. You will never be happy. You will always have this half life. You can’t do this. It’s all your fault.</i><br />
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On a loop.<br />
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When I am feeling down, mountains of evidence to the contrary make absolutely no impact on my belief in the validity of that fucked up little voice. My mind sifts through memories looking for proof that I am a failure. That I am the exact person that voice describes. And god do I find it – because I, like the vast majority of human beings, have catalogued and neatly filed every flaw and every mistake. Every failure, every silly statement, every drunken indiscretion. All of it. To be used as ammo by that cunty little voice whenever I am down and need another good kicking.<br />
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Another sure fire way to make sure that voice is proved right - I set myself up for failure. I tend to set super unrealistic goals. So high that I actually can't get started because I am already sure that I won't be able to do the task I have set myself. I get stuck in a quagmire of indecision and pessimism. I focus on things being absolutely perfect. I am particularly bad at this in my career. I hold myself to intimidatingly high standards, which see me working well into the night to finish something to the highest standard. Because nothing is ever good enough. Sometimes I do the same thing with my blog. (FFS, even this post is taking me way longer and has had more edits and rewrites than it should.) Some of my most popular posts – I look back on them the day after they’re published and think “that was crap, why does everyone like it, I should have done this, I should have said that, I write like an amateur.”<br />
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I almost always doubt praise. I think the person giving it to me is misled. That I have hoodwinked them in some way to see me as better than I really am. That I have somehow woven a false impression, and really I am not good at my job, am not a nice person, do not really know what I am talking about. It gets so bad that I think anyone who gives me praise is either a) condescending or b) an idiot. [Please don’t let this stop you all from saying lovely things – I am both desperately in need of and made incredibly uncomfortable by compliments].<br />
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And that complicated relationship with compliments – that comes from a very shaky sense of my own self worth. Somewhere along the line the things that needed to happen for me to believe in my own abilities, to trust the things that people tell me or just the things that are patently obvious, didn’t happen. While I grew a pretty tough exoskeleton, inside I remained soft and raw. Unable to withstand the blows that life gives to us all. Every blow eroded my already fragile sense of self until it was just ashes and smoke.<br />
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Last year I realised that my confidence was obliterated. Not my ‘I have a bikini body’ confidence. Not my ‘of course people want to fuck me, have you seen me’ confidence, not my 'I can talk to anyone' confidence – although all of those were pretty much sprayed on at this point too. All the outward trappings of confidence were still there. I was missing the intrinsic confidence you need to survive. To live. To take risks. To keep going. The thing that makes you get up in the morning. The bit that at the deepest levels allows you to believes that you are a capable, good person, worthy of good things. It was gone.<br />
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Christ – how do you even begin to repair that? Where do you start? I felt like I had spent months, maybe years, trying to figure out why it was so depleted in the first place. Figuring out where it had all gone. But it turned out that that didn’t really matter. Finding a reason, placing blame – it wasn’t going to help. I needed to get it back. I had to rebuild. An embryonic, burgeoning sense of confidence was the basis on which all other work on my mental health could be done. It was the very foundation.<br />
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I had found a course that offered a more proactive approach to overcoming mental illness, and as part of it they asked me to do an exercise in building self-confidence. I am positively allergic to most forms of self-help. It feels American (soz), and phoney and self-congratulatory and hollow. In my heart of hearts, I am both an optimist and a cynic. Strange bed fellows, I admit. I had high expectations of this course that promised to heal me, and yet I was wary that it would not and it would be one more failed experiment in my quest for wellness.<br />
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What they were asking me to do was simple. I started off by making a list of ten things that I was grateful for (gratitude is the most incredible thing people – I really must write another post about this some time, and it’s connection to good mental health). Ideally they would be things that would have happened recently, however if that was not possible you could rummage through the archives I guess. They could be tiny (thankful the bus was on time), or huge (thankful for my family). It didn’t matter. To give you a better example let me tell you about one of my first ten. I said “I am grateful that, despite being a bad friend for the last year because of my mental health, so many friends showed up for my birthday party and made me feel so special.” (Yup even in my gratitude posts I managed to self flagellate) Then you needed to say why you were thankful – what about that made you grateful. I was so grateful because my friends are so kind, have put up with so much from me and made me feel so loved and cherished.<br />
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And lastly (and this is the hard, but key bit) why the thing you were grateful for was down to you, was something you deserved. Urg! For a person with no confidence you may as well ask them the square root of a daffodil. So, another more helpful way you can approach it is to answer in the way your best friend might answer that question – why did Hayley deserve all those people turning up for her and celebrating with her? And the answer a best friend might give is “because she is awesome. Because she is a great friend. Because she is well liked and loved. Because she would do that for other people, because she is fucking fab”.<br />
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Sounds like an ego trip, but realising that people wouldn’t have shown up for me if they didn’t like / love me and want to spend time with me (despite all my impostor voice’s protestations) really helped. Believe it or not you can do this for every single one of them, if you think about it hard enough. Bus was prompt - well done for leaving on time to get to your appointment. Grateful someone said you’re makeup looked nice - good job on applying it this morning. And so on, all the way through those ten examples. Once you have your ten (I kept a short note on my phone of each one, with key words that reminded me what they were), whenever you get a moment go through that list and really connect with why you are grateful, and most importantly how you made something like that happen in your life. Everyday add a few more to the list, and delete the older ones. Keep a running list of gratitude.<br />
I bet this sounds like utter narcissistic madness – trying to relate every good thing that has happened to you. To something you did. And yeah, it totally is. It’s not a necessary task for someone with a normal sense of self, and a core of confidence. This is an extreme reboot. It is basically building yourself a bank of evidence that reminds you why you are worthwhile, why you are deserving, why you are good. A bank that most people have. But if your confidence is gone, then you don’t.<br />
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It’s also about learning to re-frame things. Instead of focusing energy on why everything is your fault, you’re training your brain and that awesome cheer-leading voice to keep making connections about why you’re responsible for the good things. Because in most cases you are. And that self deprecating “oh no it was nothing, I was lucky, someone else did most of the work” voice (and I know that fucker has a British accent! There is nothing so British [or female] as not taking credit for one’s own successes) can fuck off. For the woefully unconfident, there is no space for being modest. Because you have to own your wins!<br />
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So, I did this for two weeks, dedicatedly. It was like taking a course of confidence antibiotics. In the beginning I rolled my eyes at myself, ever the cynical bitch, sniggering at my own ridiculous belief that this might have an effect. But it did. And so quickly. It was like a little fire catching in my soul. It warmed me. Suddenly things were easier, and my mind was lighter. That horrid voice was muffled by all these thoughts of the good things, of the things I could be proud of. And recording those opened the gates to the memory banks and suddenly I could remember other times when I had been awesome, when I had been worth it, when I had received and given love. It was like being frozen for the longest time, and feeling the sensation return to your fingers and toes. It was weird, and almost painful. Realise just how low I had been. Just how much self loathing was being slowly thawed out of me.<br />
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It was the start of my journey to wellness. Of a return to self belief, and of a purpose. It was the start of an inner compassion that had been missing, and that we all need if we hope to find any peace. Last night I could feel that anxiety flaring (as it does on a semi regular basis), for numerous reasons, and the accompanying shrieks of 'I told you so. You're not good enough. You're going to fail. No one likes you.' It is a conscious effort, but now I can rouse a voice to drown it out. A confident steady voice, that knows my worth, that brings with it all the good stuff. If it is a particularly rough day I make sure I write myself a list and keep it close to me all day. I go to the people who boost me, I distance myself from external dissenting voices. I protect that little flame, because I never want to live without it again. </div>
HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-40113848968751265392018-03-07T10:00:00.000+00:002018-03-11T03:12:36.358+00:00What I've Been Wearing Lately: January and February 2018 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After like six weeks in pyjamas, I am really enjoying dressing up. Whoop whoop! It's fun getting back into fashion again, and exploring and being creative. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2CVZz16" target="_blank">Monki Ruffle Tulle Dress - ASOS</a></div>
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Black Jersey Tube Dress - ASOS (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2CUSoGq" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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Black Suede Ankle Boots - Evans (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2F7Oy2F" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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Clemens Ribeiro Swan Belt - Evans (previous seasons)</div>
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This dress fulfills all of my baby girl fantasy. I adore it! It's from Monki, a fan favourite among plus size bloggers. They are a straight sized brand but their items are frequently oversized which means they work for plus size - yay! Herre I am wearing a size L and I am a 22, but could definitely have fitted into a size M. Lucky for you there are still Mediums <a href="http://bit.ly/2CVZz16" target="_blank">available on ASOS</a>, so quick! Go get them before they're sold out. I wore it over a pair of black leggings (winter killing my bare leg vibes) and a black tube dress, and felt super cute at an Urban Decay event I went to, and later the launch of Bethany Rutter's book, <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Plus-Bethany-Rutter/dp/1785038575" target="_blank">Plus+</a>. I got loads of compliments and I love how my style is evolving to the point where this feels like a very Hayley outfit. </div>
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Pink Teddy Fur Coat - Simply Be (sold out)</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2CTOUnQ" target="_blank">Black Casual Tea Dress with Buttons - ASOS Curve</a></div>
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Embroidered Ankle Boots - Evans (sold out)</div>
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This little combo was what I wore for my first trip out of the house after 6 weeks of feeling like absolute shit. And it filled me with fierce fashion vibes, while still being super comfy. This coat is the cutest, but alas is sold out. But anything that gives me candyfloss sheep realness is a YES! </div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/western-style-denim-jacket/tk744/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:,size:" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cropped Denim Jacket - Simply Be</a></div>
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<a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cvkp8tb79m7" target="_blank">Tiered Tulle Prom Skirt - ASOS Curve</a></div>
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<a href="https://punkypins.co.uk/collections/patches/products/good-vibes-only-embroidered-iron-on-patch" target="_blank">Good Vibes Patch - Punky Pins</a></div>
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<a href="https://rstyle.me/n/cs64w4b79m7" target="_blank">Pink Ballet Flats - ASOS</a></div>
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Sparkle courtesy of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/FromNicLove?ref=shop_sugg" target="_blank">From Nic Love</a></div>
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I went for a cute baby girl look for London Edge. It was all floofy and girly and I felt like a little treat! </div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/violeta-by-mango-jersey-sweatshirt/yq789/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:Lilac,size:" target="_blank">Violeta by Mango Sweatshirt - Simply Be</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2CUIftt" target="_blank">Colour Pop Tassel Earrings - ASOS</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/FrillyIndustries?ref=search_shop_redirect" target="_blank">Turquoise Chain Link Necklace - Frilly Industries</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2FMnp2z" target="_blank">Kristen Leanne Kaleidoscope Palette - Urban Decay</a></div>
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I am living for the colour combination of this teal sparkle necklace with the lilac statement sleeve jumper. I loathe casual dressing - I always feel shlumpy. But I wore this with jeans - it's mega comfy and casual, and still looks good. This jumper has the BEST sleeves. And I am obsessed with this necklace from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/FrillyIndustries?ref=search_shop_redirect" target="_blank">Frilly Industries</a>. It's unusal, and the best colour, and I also have it in Pink! And the lovely ladies of Frilly Industries, who make them, are totally worth supporting. (If they don't have it on their Etsy shop currently, then just drop them a DM and I am sure they can sort you out!)</div>
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A few weeks ago the lovely lot at Urban Decay sent me the <a href="http://bit.ly/2FMnp2z" target="_blank">Kaleidoscope Palette</a> from their collaboration with Kristen Leanne, and I am LIVING the colours in this beauty. I am having so much fun experimenting with colourful shadow, for the first time in forever, and I am going to bring you a little review and a few of the looks I have created with this palette soon. </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2CS3tIh" target="_blank">Unique 21 Garden Floral Tea Dress - ASOS</a></div>
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This dress is just the cutest. Covered in little deers, flowers, bunnies and fauna, it is a skater tea dress that's true to size (I'm wearing a 22) and has wonderful statement sleeves. So cute! </div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2ozQ0Ro" target="_blank">Studio 8 Alice Gingham Dress - John Lewis</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2t7J9mL" target="_blank">Collection Curve Faux Leather Biker Jacket - M&S</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.thebigtightscompany.co.uk/shop/all-woman-90-denier-tights/" target="_blank">All Woman 90 Denier Tights - Big Tights Company</a></div>
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Black Wedge Ankle Strap Shoes - Clarks (previous season)</div>
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This whole look is so 'Leader of the Pack Vroooom Vroooom Vrooom'. Check out my full post <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2018/03/walking-in-snow-studio-8-gingham-wrap.html">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/black-london-slogan-sweatshirt/wv573/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=7205#colour:Black,size:" target="_blank">London Slogan Sweatshirt - Simply Be</a></div>
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Red Velvet Midi Skirt - <a href="https://rstyle.me/cz-n/b7t9s5b79m7" target="_blank">M&S</a> (no longer available)</div>
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Union Jack Sequined Clutch (no longer available)</div>
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I am living in this London sweatshirt from Simple Be at the moment, and I loved dressing it up with this velvet skirt, and adding my embellished Union Jack purse (an oldie from Accessorize) - I love a casual / fancy combo. And sequins and velvet with a jumper is such a fun juxtaposition. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVryLB0jKL6cJltziMEkH3v8kxawiZ-8DvkRiWixmadce12z1MJR6AqHV6e5fie7huGYi55AGlmxA4AvhcmvE1KTZX6p6VB0qGDmX654irdBlH07ACr4ZXwvectpuYZH5PgMK57vwsLML/s1600/What+I+Wore+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVryLB0jKL6cJltziMEkH3v8kxawiZ-8DvkRiWixmadce12z1MJR6AqHV6e5fie7huGYi55AGlmxA4AvhcmvE1KTZX6p6VB0qGDmX654irdBlH07ACr4ZXwvectpuYZH5PgMK57vwsLML/s640/What+I+Wore+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+%252810%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2HYqCwz" target="_blank">Melanie Parka Coat - Studio 8 London</a> (available in navy)</div>
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When it's cold I live in my parka from Studio 8 - it's waterproof, has a wonderfully fur trimmed hood, is padded and thanks to the drawstring, gives great shape. Honestly, this is a great investment buy. Mine is dark forest green with a gorgeous blonde fur trim. Alas it's sold out, but they do still have this beauty in n<a href="http://bit.ly/2HYqCwz" target="_blank">avy blue with a black fur trim</a>, and it's just as lovely.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneOW3Z6LMmZkjXJGvOYhuV_R6WUG81GSdDYvxyIqruwyHL-Wdwz0yPnXeAN3MJGVWHK0eWsxxg0IJIrPPskmtvf-S9VAs_u6fuKN8aBveoVz7Bw4xMo5olVwRCL6KYA9ODkhn79fs9PsR/s1600/What+I+Wore+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneOW3Z6LMmZkjXJGvOYhuV_R6WUG81GSdDYvxyIqruwyHL-Wdwz0yPnXeAN3MJGVWHK0eWsxxg0IJIrPPskmtvf-S9VAs_u6fuKN8aBveoVz7Bw4xMo5olVwRCL6KYA9ODkhn79fs9PsR/s640/What+I+Wore+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+%252812%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2t2s5cnNlcRWcSJ7fPYGt4ogbMPEGZTMZvUJUrgBoVMzzeIhIzvdo4cn9XXU8-E6ciLEMAd5ANz05fjl2v0I0ysLPmIv43cvvwSlFYLdq_rN5V3G9BdixY0DpF6_yWH2M0zaNAcVZdzk0/s1600/What+I+Wore+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2t2s5cnNlcRWcSJ7fPYGt4ogbMPEGZTMZvUJUrgBoVMzzeIhIzvdo4cn9XXU8-E6ciLEMAd5ANz05fjl2v0I0ysLPmIv43cvvwSlFYLdq_rN5V3G9BdixY0DpF6_yWH2M0zaNAcVZdzk0/s640/What+I+Wore+Curves+n+Curls+UK+Plus+Size+%252813%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2E3TTUo" target="_blank">Wool Mix Shawl Collar Coat - Arched Eyebrow X Navabi</a></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2E3TTUo" target="_blank">Gathered Sleeves Shift Dress - Arched Eyebrow X Navabi</a></div>
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Black Suedette Boots - Evans (similar <a href="http://bit.ly/2E0XL8C" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
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I am living for colour blocking at the moment. But I've already said a whole bunch of stuff about this look puddings, which you can read <a href="http://www.curvesandcurl.co.uk/2018/02/plus-win-with-navabi-and-bethany-rutter.html">here</a>. </div>
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So that's what I've been wearing lately. I love the layering of winter, but I am kinda ready to start playing with Spring fashion. What's your favourite look? What have you been wearing lately? Let me know... </div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259878555799959817.post-81828386633738875962018-03-05T23:16:00.000+00:002018-03-06T00:07:10.696+00:00Real Talk: Ménage à moi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYcAc_oQTvJdxpZRWo01tVVuE6ah1Zb6OOiwDnLYAw-5hQQ4BjXwERrdp7B6r0sT_wy6AUdCIXYnXtoZCvV0GCC_OIvZlo8Mto2YTDah2ZfxPFFInC6A307A5Q_YljCQhfUMDQkpyeoQ3/s1600/Curves+n+Curls+Lovehoney+Masturbation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1256" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYcAc_oQTvJdxpZRWo01tVVuE6ah1Zb6OOiwDnLYAw-5hQQ4BjXwERrdp7B6r0sT_wy6AUdCIXYnXtoZCvV0GCC_OIvZlo8Mto2YTDah2ZfxPFFInC6A307A5Q_YljCQhfUMDQkpyeoQ3/s640/Curves+n+Curls+Lovehoney+Masturbation.jpg" width="502" /></a></div>
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I love a good wank. There. I said it. I know I am not alone. In the last few years I have spoken more openly about this topic, and it’s great to know that there are lots of lasses out there doing it daily, nightly and ever so rightly. These conversations have helped open me up more and more to the joys of giving yourself a very necessary gift – sexual pleasure. They’ve also made me increasingly aware of the complex narratives and feelings around female sexuality. Especially when that sexuality doesn’t involve an active male participant, or a partner of any kind. In mainstream movies female masturbation is often portrayed as a steamy self-seduction. In porn it is usually (often unwittingly) seen through the male gaze, as though done for an audience, rather than oneself. It’s usually in a similar setting, and almost always in the same post (one that is accessible for the voyeur) and most of the time it really doesn’t in any way represent the reality of female masturbation. So today I’m departing from my usual content, and I am just going to have a little chat about masturbation. Expect a bit of my masturbatory history, a few musings (hopefully some humorous ones), and some toy recommendations. </div>
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*I found a list of 21 euphemisms online, that I am going to attempt to pepper throughout this post, because I am so bored of writing 'female masturbation'*</div>
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I’m not sure that my experience with <i>paddling the pink canoe</i> mirrors that of many of my peers. I grew up in a conservative country, where female sexuality was very much repressed and represented in extremely narrow terms. However, even with the freedom of living in the UK and the comparatively liberal sexual culture here, I still think that female masturbation just isn’t something we talk about very often. </div>
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South Africans (white ones in particular – I can only speak from my own experience here) have a complex moral relationship with sex and sexuality. When I was growing up sex before marriage was frowned upon and rarely spoken about in 'polite' company, and casual sex for women was seen as morally repugnant. In fact I was more than a little startled when I moved to the UK to see just how freely women spoke about their sexual conquests. And it took me a while to get used to people discussing sex, especially one night stands and the like, in such a cavalier manner.</div>
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In high school I had two really close girlfriends, and we shared everything. And I mean everything! Despite the fact that no one else I knew seemed to be talking about it, we sometimes discussed <i>finger painting</i> in whispered tones late at night during sleep overs. I tended to be pretty ill informed in these discussions – I had tried a couple of times, but really couldn’t understand what all the fuss was about. I couldn’t seem to make myself have the same strange, flushed feelings I had when making out with a boy I liked (even if he was clumsily fiddling with my bra, and making my boobs feel like they were being milked rather than fondled). While one of my friends was frantically rubbing one out every night, the other two of us had experimented a bit, but that <b>need</b> just wasn't there yet. Cosmo (urg, insert eyeroll) occasionally mentioned the art of <i>visiting the safety deposit box</i> in rather wishy washy, girl power terms (nothing so helpful as a diagram or a how to, just saying that this new Sex and the City generation should be double clicking their own mouse) but at 14 I was more interested in reading, gossiping and watching Dawson's Creek than I was in furtively <i>auditioning the finger puppets</i>. Despite the certain amount of shame associated with <i>fanning the fur</i> in my culture (it was always discussed in awed terms, in the same breath as nymphomania) this early exposure left me feeling like I had a low libido and an unadventurous nature. Even the (comparatively waaaay more progressive) magazines I ordered from the UK, Bliss and J17, that were talking about all sorts of issues we weren't discussing in SA, were not talking about <i>dialling the rotary phone</i>. I just had no yard stick for what was "normal". </div>
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At uni, despite having a really tight knit group of girlfriends, the big M just wasn't something we talked about. For a lot of girls the shadow of conservative families and religious upbringings meant <i>diddling Miss Daisy</i> was something they saw as shameful and wrong. One friend of mine, by far one of the most open minded people I knew at that time, told me point blank that she wasn't judging anyone else but the thought of doing it might her feel really gross and uncomfortable. She felt like it was wrong and she would never try it. I struggle to believe she kept that promise long term, but how can anyone have such strong negative feelings about something so right? A lot of the women I knew were having a lot of casual sex (more power to them!) but late night heart to hearts revealed it was pretty unsatisfying. Probably because they had no idea what they needed to get them off! </div>
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And so in my third year of university I discovered the absolute joy of self-pleasure! Jesus, I was insatiable. It's an absolute miracle I didn't end up with carpel tunnel. I rubbed that poor thing raw! Late at night, a pillow over my face lest anyone hear my stifled moans, I figured out a hundred ways to give myself an orgasm. But despite my comparatively liberal upbringing and generally open minded outlook, I felt so guilty. I felt a real sense of shame. A burning shame that took me a long time to shake off. And I think it’s just because at this point I thought I was the only one who had these urges and gave in to them this often. Whether I was sexually active with a partner or not, I was still going for it regularly. </div>
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It truly confounds me that this part of life and sexuality is still so profoundly caught up with this ridiculous sense of scandal. <i>Buttering your muffin</i> is such a healthy expression of sexuality, and all jokes aside - self-love. And having been single for the majority of my adult life, by shaming masturbation we are essentially saying that anyone without a regular partner or partners shouldn't have sexual impulses, and if they do they certainly shouldn't satisfy them. To this day, I have friends who say when they are in a relationship they have no need for <i>visiting the bat cave</i> because all their sexual needs are being met. I mean, that’s great. But for me sex and making myself come can be seen as two quite separate things. Sure there are times when you just need to scratch that itch, but really masturbation is about being connected to my own body and fulfilling my own needs and looking after myself. </div>
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In my early twenties there seemed to be this aura of romance and seduction around <i>DIY time</i> (which I think still exists today) - the idea that a woman couldn't get herself off unless she had run herself a bath full of bubbles and had enough candles burning that her pussy being on fire should really have been the least of her worries. Now I am no stranger to a good old fap in the bath, but really? I am sure there are women who need a bit of ritual to get themselves into the right headspace for pleasure - and, no shade hunty, you do you! But is this honestly how every woman gets herself off, every time? Popular cultural largely neglected to represent any other kind of wank - where are the 'just to help get myself off to sleep' wanks? The 'bored on a Sunday afternoon' fiddles? Or the 'anxiety busting' fondles? (Nothing dispatches my anxiety faster than a big orgasm - little tip there for my fellow over thinkers. Rub one out and have a nice little nap - you'll feel better after I promise.) Why are we so set on selling <i>getting lost in the deep end</i> as being high maintenance? (I'm guessing it's because men mostly wrote those scenes, and they're imagining that if we expect a bit of romance from them before we let them into our panties, we're the same with our own hands - not so sir!)</div>
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Moving on! My early forays were shame fuelled, but exciting. Do you remember that early realisation of just how thrilling a self-inflicted orgasm could be? Knowing that you had the power to make your brain go blank, and your body hot and cold, and little stars pop behind your eyelids, all by rubbing one spot over and over. I quickly became incredibly dexterous, and other than a few self-inflicted injuries (cramp, god damn you!) I would have been happy to spend the rest of my life just using my fingers. I've heard many tales of cucumbers, hair brushes, deodorant cans (teenagers are so fabulously deviant and resourceful) and even school shoes used to get off, but I was generally pretty unadventurous in that arena. All I needed was a finger or two and I was good to go. </div>
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And so I came to the world of sex toys late. In some ways because I didn’t need them – I was doing just fine by myself – but also because buying sex toys in South Africa is harder and scarier than buying hard drugs. Not even kidding. I'd bought and done coke before owning a vibrator - for real. Now I haven’t lived there for the last 9 years so maybe (hopefully) this has changed. But when I lived there vibrators were sold in sex shops. Sex shops were always in the sketchiest part of town, always had blacked out windows, with giant red sign writing that said things like “Adult World” and “Luvland”. There also always seemed to be a massive open expanse between the parking and the shop. Meaning that it was quite clear to anyone driving past exactly where you were headed. And they certainly weren’t geared towards their female clientele. No soft lighting and pink fluff here. I never made it inside one. Rumour has it they were usually lit with fluorescent strip lighting, sticky and seedy as fuck, with everyone attempting to not make eye contact and most of the interesting stuff kept in glass cabinets, so you had to ask an awkward spotty virgin if you wanted to have a proper look at anything. Needless to say I was absolutely equal parts thrilled and scandalised when I learnt of Anne Summers. Do you English girls have any idea how incredibly lucky you were to have had a safe, female friendly environment to shop for all your toys? You can pop in there, pretend to look at the marabou trimmed teddies for a minute and be up to your eyeballs in dildos and butt plugs in no time! </div>
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And so, at the not so tender age of 27 I bought my first vibrating dildo. God did I feel racy. What a sexual pioneer! I figured a dildo was the way to go, because in movies that always seems like the toy de jour and what did I know! I have to be honest I wasn’t overly impressed. My little see-through pink vibe looked hella cute, but somehow wasn’t what I needed. I started researching, and discovered there was a whole world of toys and treats available, and halleloo! most of them were just a click away. Man do I love the internet. </div>
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And so, from the fabulous freedom of the internet, Lovehoney brought me my next solo sexual surprise. In the rather cumbersome form of the <a href="https://www.lovehoney.co.uk/product.cfm?p=20464" target="_blank">Magic Wand Vibrator</a>. This hefty beauty changed my life. It’s not small, and it’s not discreet. But oh my god. It works. Every. Single. Time. And with barely any effort too. It’s earth shattering. Initially designed as a body massager (yeah, whatever) the Magic Wand has a large domed head and flexible neck that emits vibrations that vary from delicate flutters to a seriously powerful, almost too much to take buzz. The vibrations are stronger than anything I have ever experienced with any other toy, and the easy to use dial means you can very easily turn that power up or down to suit you.</div>
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The first time I tried it, after about 6 orgasms, I actually felt like I was operating on a higher level of consciousness. And I am in no way exaggerating. It was incredible. It almost felt like a first time it was so intense and unexpected. I burnt my first one out late last year (that really says more about me than the poor magic wand) and hadn’t yet got round to replacing it, so was absolutely thrilled when I won a new one in Curvy Girl Thin’s competition last year. It’s not the cheapest toy out there, it plugs into the mains (which is a little cumbersome, but on the plus side you don’t have to worry about batteries or charging) and it’s a little on the noisy side (the wand and pretty much any woman using it I reckon) but for all those little drawbacks, it just works so well. Honestly, the Magic Wand really is the gift that keeps on giving. And I would recommend to any one – I’ve not heard anyone not love it.</div>
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While all my friends aren’t massively open to talking about this sort of thing, some are, and I love sharing product recommendations. It was based on a recommendation last year that I decided to purchase a <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Diamond-Sweets-Satisfyer-Pro-2/dp/B07734DD8D/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1520288099&sr=8-1&keywords=satisfyer+pro+2" target="_blank">Satisfyer</a> from Amazon last year. Another truly earth shattering toy, the Satisfyer has a suction head that fits over the clitoris and sucks and releases, at varying levels of intensity, depending on the setting. Again, this is another toy pretty much guaranteed to get me off every time. And it also needs to be used with care – some of the higher settings are so intense they’re almost unbearable. In a very delicious way. Yet another product I would whole heartedly recommend for personal use, or for playing with a partner. </div>
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I promised you recommendations, and there they are. I am not sure what else to say really. Except that I think we should talk about these things. Not in ways that make us uncomfortable, but in ways that remind us that this is healthy and normal, and that there is no right or wrong way to do it. But that if you feel the need to, the do! Because there is nothing wrong with spending some good old quality time with yourself! I hope sharing my thoughts and tales might encourage some of you to share yours. With me, or with others. You don’t have to beam it out into the internet, but maybe next time you’re with your friends and on that second glass of vino. Or hell, at you baby and me coffee morning. Or around the water cooler with your work bestie. Wherever women gather! </div>
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For those just wanting to learn a bit more about masturbation, there is an incredible website, called <a href="https://www.omgyes.com/" target="_blank">OMG Yes</a> that actually has instructional videos about different ways to pleasure yourself, different techniques, how to practice edging (which is essentially orgasm control, that allows you to stay at a high peak of sexual arousal for a long period of time without climaxing), and things to do with your partner. It is subscription based, but well worth a look if you are wanting to learn a few more things, or if you've never quite figured it out. </div>
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If you have any questions (I am no expert) please feel free to drop me a line. And do let me know if you try the Magic Wand or the Satisfyer – I wanna know it blew your mind! Mwah!</div>
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HayleyShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12701849741025656180noreply@blogger.com15