Plus size cottagecore

Those of you who have been following my blog for a while will know that sometimes I like to be a bit whimsical. I often like clothes that remind me of flower fairies or sometimes princesses (but maybe not too Princessy!). I hadn’t heard of the term cottagecore until recently but many of my clothes fit quite nicely into the aesthetic. I had a search for plus size cottagecore and couldn’t really find any much about it. Or at least nothing that would help me shop! I figured I would put something up because I have a bit of a lady boner for it at the moment. 

Plus Knot Bust Puff Sleeve Wrinkled A-line Dress

(It is very dangerous that I've discovered Shein! This is a 5XL / UK 26 but it's generous and has a bit of stretch and elasticated waist / tie bust, so it would easily fit bigger! Comes in mustard yellow and nude pink too! So much cottagecore on Shein!)

There are a number of reasons why I think cottagecore is such a good look for plus size women. For one it’s hyper feminine and I think us fat birds are so often overlooked when it comes to pulling off super girly looks. So many of the cuts are hella fitted and flattering or hella loose fitting, so you can go full smock if you don’t feel comfortable in form sitting clothes, or you can nip everything in at the waist and get your norks out! Although many of the dresses are short, a ton of them are midi and maxi, so no worries about chub rub shorts showing out of the bottom. Oh and the sleeves! Firstly most of the dresses have sleeves which is great for those who are paranoid about their bingo wings. Additionally the sleeves tend to be big and puffy or elasticated or loose, which is heaven for me and my massive upper arms! It’s honestly my favourite trend in years, hence the whole post dedicated to it!

What initially drew my attention to this new fad was Selkie, the spectacular dreamlike, inclusive clothing shop that creates dresses you'd normally only see in movies! Probably a sexy, historical film set in Versailles and full of innocence being lost! There would be frolicking ladies picking flowers, pulling apples from trees and just generally floating around outside spaces looking like a daydream. I decided to buy a Selkie (after seeing the above shot of Tess Holliday!) because I am planning an event and I wanted something unusual and magical. I’m not going to put it on the blog because it’s a secret at the moment but I’ve got a 5XL and it’s a glorious fit…. I’d say it’s a good size 26 in UK sizing. But buying that dress reminded me of how much I love what I always called flower fairy dresses and nowadays people would call fairytale or cottagecore, also sometimes farmcore, all of which basically means floaty, floral - maybe gingham  - and super feminine clothes with a bit of a nod to vintage historical looks.

There are a few pictures on this blog of me wearing dresses where I sort of look like I’m in fancy dress and I’m not scared of people looking at me. It’s funny when I look at my wardrobe how many things I have that fit quite nicely into this particular style of dress. I have quite a few floaty, girly, over the top dresses, many of which I just wear whenever I fancy and not for special occasions. Old dresses aren’t  going to be much help to my readers because you can’t get to them anymore, so I thought I would Investigate the plus size retailers to see what they are offering and then try an absolute shit load of it on! I'll post that up when I've had time to collate everything. I have gone a bit bananas to be honest and I’m not allowed to keep too much of it, but I will certainly keep some! 

Plus Porcelain Print Shirred Skater Dress

In terms of stuff I already have that you can still get (or very similar items anyway!) I have to give Boohoo a real shout out. They have porcelains prints, big puffy sleeves, square necks and so many cottage core dresses at the moment! I loved this pink one so much that I also got the blue version. The pink is 24 and the blue (now sold out!) is a 22. They're both really generous so a size 28 could easily wear a 24 without it looking tight! this is so cute and can be worn with the sleeves off the shoulders too! I LOVE this dress. The pink one is still in stock and is only £14!

ASOS DESIGN Curve shirred waist lace insert maxi dress in black

 I got this delicious dress I got from ASOS a while back (size 26 but 24 would have been fine too!). Lots of people complained about this dress because it’s very low-cut and as you can see it doesn’t really leave much to the imagination in the old boob area! You will need a very good plunge bra or small boobs. I really wouldn’t advise to wear a top underneath this I think it really would ruin the look! So be brave or maybe try one of the other similar dresses I've found! 

 There was a white version of this as well but it’s sold out otherwise I would’ve had it too, hundred percent! I feel like absolute sex bomb and princess in this at the same time. It's so comfy, it’s so pretty, it’s so flattering, I absolutely love it with a passion. It’s only available in a couple of sizes now but interestingly both Asos and River Island have dresses that are very similar here and here that are both and are both totally awesome! It’s hard because I keep seeing them And wanting them but genuinely they are pretty much the same dress in a slightly different style so I don’t need them now. They do look like they’re not quite as low-cut though so for those of you who find this one a little bit too booby they might be perfect! If you are more pear shaped then the Shein version here would be good as reviews say the bust is a bit small.... it comes in lots of colours too!

I'll be back with some new frocks and some sent back frocks in the cottagecore family very soon! I know winter is coming but I'm going to be frolicking indoors, in floaty dresses, for as long as my boiler is working!

A Belle and some crappy jumpsuits

 I tried some bits from asos. Mostly disappointing but one keeper!

ASOS DESIGN curve shirred elastic back jumpsuit in tomato red

There are a few things that drive me absolutely mad. All shoes being mules at the moment, so many backless dresses and fake pockets. Somebody PLEASE explain to me why any designer looks at a piece of clothing and goes "pockets would look cool there, but don't actually make usable pockets". What is wrong with these fools?! Anyway. I might have been more into this very lightweight and slightly cheap feeling jumpsuit if the pockets were real, because it would be great in hot weather. Nice bright colour, stretchy bodice and super wide legs. Lots of reviews complained about the straps being too long but I didn't have that problem at all. If anything I'd have liked to have them a bit longer! Very much depends on your height I suspect! This is a size 22. I sized down after reading the reviews, which was definitely the right decision! Oh and this isn't red, it's orange..... never seen a tomato this colour!

ASOS DESIGN curve 90s knot shoulder jumpsuit in dark floral

Size 26. This one was hella disappointing! If it's too long on the body for me then it will drown most people! The bust darts are on my waist and there is no shape. It's like a long tube of fabric. And it's a nice fabric so a real shame!

Designed by a giant perhaps?! I liked the fabric and loved the pattern and colour, but the jumpsuit itself is a bit of a disaster sadly. Unless you're a very large busted 6ft woman, in which case this might fall in a good way!

ASOS DESIGN curve button front linen minimal chuck on jumpsuit in black

Size 26. Similar problems with this one. I rolled the legs up but it's very long in the body, very low cut and therefore it doesn't fall well as the hips and pockets don't hit at the right place.

I did consider folding over the shoulders and sewing them to get the hips in the right place and make the neckline higher (because this could be kinda cute!) But what stopped me was the fabric. It's itchy. I was hoping it would be like my massive sun yellow asos jumpsuit but it's like fake scratchy linen. I sent it back, even though I kinda wanted to keep it! Hopefully I'll find this sort of style another time and in a better fit and fabric. Or I'll get this one again in the sale, modify it and hope a wash with make it lass itchy!

Influence Plus cami strap button front midi dress in blue stripe

Size 26. This was one of those lovely moments on Asos where I looked in the sale and found tons of stuff that was never listed in the curve range. Sometimes they drop a bunch of clothes from other brands straight into the sale section so I always go to the sale or outlet and order it by "new in". I have found some genuine gems this way! I knew I had to try this little cutie! The size 26 fit perfectly!

My boyfriend told me I looked a bit Disney, so this has been christened my Belle dress! It's so pretty! Very good on the bust! Nips in under the waist. It doesn't give you much of a curvy hip hourglass look (unless you already have that glorious shape!) But I think it's still innocently sexy. It certainly had an effect on my partner anyway!

Nice framing Parsnips! Now one of the best things about the design of this dress is that the straps are adjustable and it's designed to be quite high on the back. Thank god! I hate strappy dresses with super low backs.... what about my massive plus size lady bra?! This one managed to cover a longline bra with 6 hook and eyes!

The fabric is thin but firm and has a bit of stretch to it. The creases are my fault.... I'd been wearing it all day (with it rucked up around my waist while I sat on my bed with my laptop between my legs!) before I took the photos!

I recommend this one.... perfect for bieng the buxom wench you always wanted to be!

Sneaky ASOS Curve haul

 I caved and tried some stuff from Asos Curve again. 

It's been raining all day, so it seems sensible to start with a vinyl rain coat!

ASOS DESIGN Curve vinyl check trench coat in pink

I always wanted this coat! I tried this last year in a 26 and it was too big for me. I ended up keeping the fabulous mint green vinyl coat with faux fur collar because it's lined and good for the cold wet weather, but I never forgot this one. 

This is much better suited tothe mad weather we currently have - pissing it down but very warm and balmy. It's thin vinyl, generously sized (this is the size 24 fyi) and has popper and a belt to fasten it.

Okay so I can see why people said this is like a vinyl tablecloth because that's what the fabric feels like, but I don't really care about such things. I just want something thin that will stop me getting soaked when it's raining and fits over clothing easily, which is precisely what this is!

It's lack of a hood is a bit annoying but I normally use an umbrella anyway as hoods so often blow down. 

Daisy Street Plus 90's cardigan with star buttons in rib knit

I just didn't like the fabric on this cardi. Also the buttons gape like mad even though it's not particularly tight. 

The other thing to mention is that the buttons are stars, which is cute, but they're pretty spiky - I knew they'd scratch me and snag everything they came into contact with. Shame because it's definitely cute!

Daisy Street Plus longline coat in lilac yin yang heart faux fur

It's awesome. I loved it.

Okay so it looks a bit like a dressing gown but who cares?! It's ace. Size 22 because daisy street faux furs are very oversized so I size down lots. Big poppers, big pockets.

Great fit, super snuggley, good length and a total bargain. Very similar cut to my elvie blue faux fur but with less structured shoulders. 

I REALLY wanted to keep this one but.....

Dammit! Moon and stars! It seems to be sold out now (sorry for the delay in posting!) but it's so oversized that it's sure to come back in stock soon.... maybe

Poppers again, and I'm planning to add an extra one so it does up higher and keeps my neck warm.

Still soft, still oversized in a 22 still awesome! It was so hard to send the purple one back (and honestly if it's still available after payday and still on sale I might have to get it again!) But this one just gave me the feels even more. The colours are just so fun!

I got the 26 and it was huge! Alas currently sold out, but I feel the same as I did about the faux fur. Will surely have returns due to sizing.

Ended up with a 22. It's generous cut and soft crinkle fabric - a favorite of mine during the summer months.

It's super light and comfy and has lovely wide legs. It's going to be perfect for the inevitable heatwave we get sometimes before summer!

ASOS DESIGN curve wrap crinkle jumpsuit in check

Size 26. Not a great shape on me. Slightly crinkley thin fabric that doesn't stretch but feels flexible.

I like the top but not the bottom. And to be honest the print doesn't feel very 'me'!

New Look Curve frill edge cut out mini dress in black

Size 26. This is a pretty cute dress but I just don't need another black dress..... in fact I'm soon to list a bunch of black dresses on ebay because I have too many and I often put them on and think "meh, plain black just doesn't make me pop now my hair isn't red"

But if you want a bargain LBD then this is a good one. Its thin shell like fabric with a bit of give. The arms aren't very generous (very typical of new look curve). It didn't feel particularly static but its the sort of fabric that can be, so bare that in mind!

ASOS DESIGN Curve plisse balloon sleeve midi dress in navy

Another one of those moments when I know I don't need something but I still want to try it on! Me and plisse don't get on too well because its so static and clingy, but that doesn't really matter when it's bodycon!

Size 24 and very comfy, gorgeous colour, perfect length and sexy deep v neck. Love the sleeves too.

But I don't need it. I sent it back but only because I have a lovely tight dark blue midi dress so I don't feel like I need another. Lush though!

Asos curve review 2021 #1

 New year, same me.

ASOS DESIGN curve lounge jersey tie waist jumpsuit in white animal print

I've had many versions of this jumpsuit in my wish list for aaaggggeeeesss. My favorite was the greenone with black squiggles, but as this one was in the sale and I knew I'd just be wearing it round the house, I just accepted this print. It's super comfy and lovely. Stretch jersey. I got the size 24 because 26 in jersey is nearly always too big for me, but this jumpsuit requires you to pull it over your arse through the neck, so I'd say that it's wisest to get the right size for your bottom half rather than your top. It's got the drawstring waist and batwing sleeves so it won't look accidentally oversized ;)

ASOS DESIGN Curve longline belted skater coat in camel

I have been looking for an autumnal beige coat for quite some time. I wanted to replace an old asos favourite of mine which was falling to bits, but everything seemed to be either very thick or very thin. This one was exactly right and has now officially replaced the old one!

 After reading the reviews about how oversized this is, I sized down to a 22. It's perfect. The sleeves are a bit long but I will fold them up so it's no big deal.

I like how long it is but obviously if you are average height or shorter, this will be a maxi length coat on you. It's worth a punt thought as it's soft, comfy, warm but not hot and has a lovely collar that can be folded up.

ASOS DESIGN headband with bow in grey satin

I'm a bit obsessed with hairbands at the moment. I tried loads and just kept this one. I know it's cutsie but I care not! Plus it's grey and matches my salt and peppery roots!

Fashion Union Plus trench coat with shearling details

This coat is brilliant. If I'd have been looking for a thicker winter coat then this would have been a keeper! It's size 24 and is comfy and original. I really liked the shape and detailing. It is a bit oversized as I'd normally need a 26 in this sort of coat.

It's a more mushroomy colour IRL than it looks on the website, but otherwise it's as you would expect.

Vero Moda Curve tailored wrap coat in camel

This is another coat that was reviewed as being oversized, so I tried the 24. It's actually not that big by Asos standards, but the body is a bit generous. The arms are certainly not oversized though! They were very tight.

If you don't have huge arms like me then this might be a good option, as it's made a of lovely soft thick fabric that has a bit of stretch. Lovely colour and shape too.

TFNC Plus wrap front pleated midi dress in gold

Well.... I was warned! I went for the 26 and it's too small on top! Flexible on the waist as it does up with ties on the inside and out, but yeah, small and not stretchy. Also, it's a super muted washed out gold. nowt wrong with that of course, but the photo's on the website are very misleading in that respect! It's lined and if you can find the right size it's actually a lovely dress with a flattering silhouette.

ASOS DESIGN Curve seam detail sweat dress in blue

Size 24. I'm super bored of sloping shoulders with seams that are halfway down my arms and dresses that are much bigger on top than on the bottom. That's all I'm gonna say about this one!

ASOS DESIGN Curve broderie midi dress with hook and eye in orange

I assumed that this would be non-stretch so I ordered the 26. it was way too loose. I'd actually get this in a 22 if I was to re-order it. I wasn't sure if I liked it enough to actually do that though. Maybe I'd love it if it were fitted? It can live in my wishlist for a while!

Vesper Plus tailored tux dress with tie front in red

I liked this a lot, but let's face it - it's a work dress and after almost a year of pandemic furlough and working from home, I just don't need more smart attire! I do look at it and think.... maybe you do need this though? It's soooooo pretty!

I got the 26 and it was a bit generous on top, but not so generous on the hips, so probably best to put up with a looser top if you're big on the bottom like me! It's firm but silky and stretchy. Feels like stretch suit fabric if that makes sense?! Looking at myself in the pics makes me want to re-order it, but I'm resisting because I've gone a bit made in the sales already (you'll see!)

ASOS DESIGN Curve drape fallen shoulder midi pencil dress in mono grid print

This is the size 24 and it's very generous. I often find this to be the case with this style of stretch dress. I'd probably try the 22 for comfort but the 20 might actually be the best fit. I'm honestly not sure how the model managed to get it off both shoulders as it's certainly designed to just fall off one shoulder!

It's a thin scuba style fabric. Very soft and comfy, super stretchy (as you can see!). I like this though. Nothing better than a dress that is both sexy AND comfy. Of course I don't have anywhere to go at the moment so.... maybe I'll get it in a smaller size in the future?!

ASOS DESIGN curve button front square neck peg leg jumpsuit in red spot

Square necks are my jam at the moment, so I was OBVIOUSLY gonna get this jumpsuit wasn't I?!

I couldn't work out what the fabric would be like, so went for the 26 (pictured). Too big! it's sort of rough, textured and stretchy fabric. I could easily have fit the 22 as the 24 I got instead can be pulled on and off without unbuttoning it, but as I'm spending so much time at home I wanted a relaxed fit, so the 24 is ideal.

I love this though. I can literally jump around in it! I can sit crossed legged and bed over and it moves with me. also a good length in the body, so no camel toes to worry about!