Everyone likes to look nice on Christmas Day. Seeing friends and family, hand celebrating the day, you want to look your best.

But then it comes to the favourite part of the day, Christmas dinner.

Suddenly trousers are too tight, belts are in need of loosening and everyone wants to pull on a pair of pyjamas to get comfy.

So why not try a pair of leggings instead of jeans or trousers? They have elastic waistbands, which will expand right along with you. Pair these with a dressier dress or longer top, which is slightly baggy, and no one will know how many helpings you’ve had.

Dress them up with some jewellery or heels, or keep the comfort theme going with a pair of cute flats or ballet pumps. Either way, you’ll be comfy and chic for Christmas.

X-Factor Fashion

For anyone who watched this series of the X-Factor, they will know there has been many a fashion faux-pas this year.

From Cheryl’s elaborate dresses,

to Dannii’s weird and wonderful hair-do’s.

Cheryl Cole couldn’t sit down properly in most of her dresses, dodgy ties were handed out to the likes of Olly Murs and Louis Walsh, and Simon’s chest rug was peeking out of his shirts most nights.

There were also Olly’s too tight trousers, that were always about an inch too short.

And the worst culprit’s of all, were a serious joke, one word sums them up...Jedward.

Neon suits, PVC suits, dodgy trainers, and let’s not forget the matching quiffs reminiscent of Cameron Diaz in ‘There’s Something About Mary’.

By far I think this year’s line up have been an the most oddly dressed bunch in the final run.
What were the stylists thinking this year?

Birthday Blast

Birthdays are fab. Spending time with family and friends, eating cake, celebrating another year passing (or cringing in my case) and if you’re lucky, a few nice presents. And usually, for those interested in fashion, this means clothes.

So for my upcoming 20th (gah), my gran couldn’t find anything nice to get me, so took me shopping. We wandered around the town with my mum, enjoyed dinner in Union Square and eventually ended up in Fat Face. This is a shop I usually like, the clothing is comfortable and looks effortless but trendy at the same time. A lot of their tops are quite flattering for fuller figured ladies like myself, I haven’t had much luck with anything for the bottom half in the past though.

So when I spotted a cute, red denim mini skirt, I initially thought ‘I like it, but will it like me?’. With encouragement from my mum and gran, I decided to try it on. However, when I went to get my size off the rail, there was no size 14 in sight. I reluctantly lifted the size 12 and dragged myself to the changing rooms. As I began to try it on, I expected it to get to my thighs, and J.Lo-esque booty, and go no further.

But as the denim slipped over the curves and the button fastened with no strain (with room to spare I might add) light descended from the heavens and the hallelujah chorus sounded.

I managed to get into a size 12! That sold it for me, the skirt was bought and taken to be wrapped up as birthday gift.

After this pleasing experience, I tried on another skirt in the store that I liked. This also fit in the size 12. Granted it was a wool skirt and stretched, but it was still a 12, and I was still on the high from the denim size 12 fitting.

So with a big smile on my face, I treated myself to the wool skirt and waited patiently until my birthday for my red one.
One positive aspect of reaching the big two-oh, becoming a size 12.

Bah Humbug

Christmas nights out. Sparkly outfits, yummy meals, a few drinks and a lot of laughs. That’s what the Lingerie team from Debenhams, plus myself, were expecting.

Firstly, if you’re wondering why I went on the Lingerie night out, it’s because it was my old department, and all my mates work there. Secondly, it’s was not the best day of my life.

The day started off like any other Friday. I woke up and began trying to fix yet another of the problems arising within my student accommodation hellhole. My door, no longer locking or unlocking, for the hundredth time.

Of course, the office doesn’t open until 3pm and, of course, I can’t get hold of anyone at any of the other locations scattered throughout Aberdeen. So, I make the most of the time I have until the office opens, while not being able to leave the flat for fear of the insurance company, and what they would say, heaven forbid, something went missing.

Eventually, I got someone to look at the door, only to make it worse, then give me a temporary fix until the weekend is over. Oi.

Anyhoo, to add to the misery, by the time all of this had occurred, I had exactly 45 minutes to get ready for said night out. So, I primped and preened, donned my uniform for the night, my glitziest heels and bejewelled dress, and headed out.

Now when I say glitziest heels, you probably can’t comprehend how much glitz I mean. I’m talking shoes practically made of glitter. Picture these Nine West beauties, only all purple. Fabulous if I say so myself.

My cotton jersey, Julien MacDonald dress looked nice enough and the sparkly purple heels looked amazing, but they certainly aren’t designed for warmth.

And damn, was it cold!

But I expected the well needed merriment to warm me up.

In the end, we all sat in our glad rags, filling ourselves up with festive fancies, planning where to head for our Christmas cocktails. Kareoke was ruled out, with the majority of the group being tone deaf, and the clubs such as Liquid also bit the dust as a few of our number were over 35. So we headed out of the restaurant, and stood at the crossing deliberating the plan of the evening, when all but four of us, WENT HOME!

Feeling slightly disgruntled and less festive, the four of us remaining headed to a university bar to drown our sorrows, before calling it a night at 1am. Poor show.

Ah well, at least we looked fabulous and my door worked when I got home.

Was it the cold? Was my bad day jinxing the evening? Were my heels just too damn fabulous for everyone to handle? Or has everyone suddenly turned Scrooge on us?
Oh Bah Humbug!

Size Matters

I don’t know whether this can be counted as a proper entry, it’s more of a rant to be perfectly honest.

Why is it that every shop you go to seems to have a different opinion on sizes? A size 12 in Topshop is more like a size 8 in River Island, for example. Trying to find clothes can be a nightmare because of this.

Searching for a pair of grey skinny jeans, I tried the likes of Oasis, New Look, Topshop and Miss Selfridge. Only to find that not even one of the thunder-thighs would fit. In the end I managed to find a pair which fitted perfectly, but I had to spend so much more to get them. Not very fair, I say.

The same can be said of one Personal Shopper customer, since I can’t exactly use real names, let’s call her Jones. Jones came in with the desire to look fashionable and sexy for Christmas. She was looking for a fabulous top and, of course, skinny jeans. But by being of the curvy girl mould, she, like me, was struggling. Everywhere she tried, the jeans all fitted poorly. Especially New Look, according to Jones, even though they used to be rather good for jeans. They were either too tight, too baggy, too short or too long (even when labelled as regular length). Eventually, I managed to find some classic black skinnies which fitted Jones, with minimal bulge or gape, and although they were slightly longer, were better than anything else she had tried.
Debenhams Red Herring collection kicks New Look’s butt!

Really, who can tell which comes from where?

This process could have been made so much simpler if only stores/manufacturers/designers, whoever is to blame for this gross misconduct, would use a UNIVERSAL size guide. One set of measurements that equals each size! How hard would it be? Really?! Rant Over :)

New Trend Rising?

Vampires. Werwolves. And a danger magnet named Bella. What do these three things mean to you? To a normal person, probably nothing. But to me, a self confessed TwiHard, they mean one thing. Twilight.

Or to be more specific, the sequel to Twilight, The Twilight Saga: New Moon. With my ticket booked, and my shift at work finished, my excitement couldn’t be contained. Not only was I finally getting to see the movie I had so desperately been waiting for, but I was going to a midnight viewing, one of the first screenings of New Moon to be watched in the U.K. I could literally have howled with glee. My mind couldn’t have been further from fashion on this particular night. I was intently focused on the glorious Twilight hunks, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner. As an avid member of Team Edward, I was shocked to find I was leaning towards the territory of Team Switzerland when I saw the newly buff and brooding Jacob Black. They really have ruined it for all mortal men.
Bella Swan is a lucky, lucky girl. Two gorgeous, mythical men fighting over her. Swoon.

Anyhoo, enough talking about them or I’ll be back at the cinema drooling in 10 seconds flat.

But all of this got me thinking. Is fantasy the newest trend?

You can see people sitting on the bus, at the bus stop, in cafes or even in lectures, reading the books, but it goes much further than that.

Franchises such as Twilight and Trueblood, which stem from the books, movies and television, based on myths, legends and scary stories, have launched huge fan bases. These fan bases have clothing, home wear, accessories and much more, all dedicated to what they love. I mean, they even have Christmas decorations! (mental note: buy Twilight Christmas decorations).

It’s not hard to walk down the street and see just how big fantasy is becoming. You see the posters and advertisements in bus stops, shop windows, and even on the clothes people wear. Lion and Lamb hoodies, Mrs Edward Cullen t-shirts, or bags which simply say ‘Bite me’ followed by the name of a fictional vampire are widely sported amongst the teens of the world. And not just teens! There is also items for older women, maternity wear, menswear.

Is this a trend for everyone? Will we soon see mothers and daughters wearing matching or opposing Team Edward/Jacob t-shirts?

If fantasy really is the newest must have, then all I want for Christmas is a bronze haired, sparkly vampire and a russet brown werewolf. Oh and Santa? If I’m really good, would you throw in Eric Northman from Trueblood as well?

Mega Winter Warmers

Up to 25% off everything in store. Stores open late, and I mean late, try 2am. For the shopping addict in all of us it sounds perfect, especially in the run up to Christmas. Less queuing, less hassle, less stress.

At least for those doing the shopping.

For the staff at Debenhams, Mega Week represents long hours, huge numbers of customers, running around like a headless chicken and pressure to succeed. But in all honesty, we do love it. The week is busy, but it goes faster and we have fun with each other as the nights go on.
This includes the Personal Shoppers. We have to help out on the tills, and with tidying, on top of the countless appointments made by people in the hopes of finding the perfect outfit (with money off of course), for parties, a winter wedding, or simply to keep them warm and in style this Christmas.

Keeping warm in winter is always easy, but looking good at the same time can be that little bit harder. With all the bulky knits and dark colours, your shape is disguised and distorted, and your mood begins to match the colours you wear. So try finding a classic style of coat, one which wont date and you can continue to wear again and again. Take for example, a black wool trench coat. It is simple and elegant, black is always in fashion, and it is fitted at the waist. This gives a nipped in silhouette, and the illusion of curves, or the enhancement those of curvier girls. With it being wool, it won’t be the most waterproof of coats, this however gives you an excuse to buy a cute and colourful umbrella.

We all know Uggs are some of the warmest and comfiest footwear going around, but they sure won’t keep your feet dry in the winter rain and snow. So why not opt for a pair of riding boots? They’re comfy and stylish, plus keep your toes warm and dry. Perfect for trailing the high street and the Christmas sales, for example the hellish, I mean exhilarating Mega Week!

I know what you’re thinking, this outerwear may show off my figure, but it’s still as dark like the winter sky. Add some of your favourite, bright colours to your outfit, by choosing a colourful bag, or scarves and gloves. They aren’t just a fashion statement people, they keep you cosy too!

This is what I’ve been telling those customers who come in, looking for an outfit to brighten up their winter, while keeping out the chill.
So splash some colour into your outfit, without splashing the cash. Simply add some colourful accessories to warm up your winter.

Head to the shops and the sales, the late night variety, to save yourself the stress and the hassle. Save some money and your winter wardrobe. But do take pity on the poor sales assistants who are happily serving away until the wee hours, we take on the stress to save your sanity.

London Calling

Ah consolidation week. The week in which students are supposed to catch up on coursework and start their preparation for the coming exam season. Yeh...that's what we do.
While most of my fellow students began their weeklong parties or hibernation, I took the perilous journey to the bustling streets and bright lights of London. Yes, that's right folks, London baby!
For a few days every year my mum and myself take a mini break of sorts; take in a show, visit some friends, spend as much money as we can afford. And where better to do it.

I have to say this trip was amazing. Firstly, our flight arrived EARLY, how often does that happen? However half an hour into the flight I did burst into hysterics, confusing and slightly worrying my mother, until I explained I had in fact forgotten to pack pyjamas. Oh well, an excuse to buy new ones…but where from considering we didn’t arrive at our hotel until after 5pm, and shops would be closed by the time we got there. Fear not! For our lovely little hotel in South Kensington, was a 5-minute walk away from Harrods! (Plus a GAP where I managed to find a cute pair of jammies for about a 5th of the price of ones in Harrods).

Now Harrods seems to be very imaginative. They seem to believe that the newest trends this season are green makeup, gingham check, and ruby slippers. Well personally I don’t give a flying monkey’s about gingham, but the shoes I’ll take in a size 5! As my mum and I followed the yellow brick road leading into Harrods, we realised that it was in fact the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz, and it was this years Christmas theme within the store. Makes more sense I suppose.

Now as we all know, Harrods is a tad bit expensive. But after months and months of hard work, shopping for other people, I felt that it was about time I shopped and treated myself to something nice. So, as we meandered around Harrods, I was slightly disheartened when nothing immediately jumped out at me. And then I saw it. Soft, cream, gorgeous, and Juicy Couture. With its delicate ruffles, and warm feel, it was the perfect outfit for Christmas time. I tried it on, and it flattered all the right places, it gently clung to curves. It was perfect for my curvy figure.
I had to have it!
So I proudly took the dress to the till point, and handed over my money. It was only after we walked away, with me swinging my bag happily, that I realised.
‘Mum, wasn’t I supposed to get a pound back?’
Harrods had done me out of my change!!

This is the dress, only mine is cream.After the theft from Harrods and the securing of sleepwear, the next order of business was food. So, to Leicester Square we went. In the end we managed to get some cheap tickets for Chicago, so had dinner on the go, pizza slices all the way. Even better, was when we arrived at the show, we were asked to go to the box office with our reduced price, upper circle tickets. Our tickets were then changed to the dress circle! No longer were we stuck in the Gods, but sitting centre stage with one of the best views in the house. All for £20 each. Not bad I say.

The following day was our proper shopping day. Now take heed, for walking around the shopping streets of London, Uggs are required. Not heeled boots from Clarks it seems, no matter how chunky or low the heel. Both my mum and I realised this after we had walked up and down Oxford street for the 3rd time.
After a very succesful day, we sat smiling on the underground, surrounded by our bags from Tiffany, Abercrombie and Fitch, Sketchers (Mum gave up and bought comfier shoes), and good old Debenhams. You'd think that I'd stay away from it on my days off, but hey I get a discount.
After relieving ourselves of the bags and readying ourselves to be seen in public once more, and discovered that the aftershave smell that had been following us all day, was actually from our purchases, we headed out for dinner with a friend of the family. Then after we were sufficently nourished, we were once again 'Off to see the Wizard', as we had tickets for that nights showing of Wicked. Front row of the dress circle, at full price this time unfortunately.

After the show, we had drinks in a small, unknown pub in South Kensington. And I was shocked to realise I recognised someone at the bar. After sitting for a good while wondering where I knew this man for, I finally asked my companions. Turns out I'd been staring at Johnny Rotten from the Sex Pistols, for a good 20 minutes.

Alas the nxt day, we had to come home. So as the the plane ascended from Terminal 5, I waved goodbye for yet another year. Once again, the flight was early, and we were one of the first groups off the plane. Such a succesful trip.

So what I've learned from my consolidation week this November, is that green is definatley a Wicked colour this season, Uggs are definatley the must have shoe for shoppers, Abercrombie's aftershave clings to clothes and smells amazing, and Harrods are thieves!

Party Time

First and foremost, I apologise for not updating this thing sooner, I have had so many things going on lately. And secondly I have a small announcement.

Sadly the time of astronaut chic is over, before it even began. All because one silly supervisor forgot to order the damn bike.
So I have packed away my jumpsuit and helmet, awaiting the next crazy idea to come out of the Debenhams collective. Which turns out to be making me stand in the middle of the Womenswear floor giving a demonstration on this year’s party wear.

Yes, the time is upon us once again when the twinkling lights and sparkling outfits of the festive season are returning to our high street.
This year is all about the silhouette - body con fits, one shoulder dresses, and cut out detailing - all to show off those fabulous figures, of all shapes and sizes. Add to this the season’s hottest colours, and you have one killer outfit.

Purple is this season's must have colour, it oozes red carpet glamour. Whereas red is dramatic and sexy, a fab alternative to black. Whether they are worn as a statement dress or as fun accessories to brighten up a darker outfit, these are the colours everyone needs to be seen in this season.
Trust me, I pick clothes for other people for a living!

Another great trend for the party season is prints, floral and optical. Accessorise these with gold and killer heels, and you have a look that it chic and feminine. Just watch out with the kind of print you go for, some prints can make a slim girl look tinier and curvier girl look chunky, trust me I know from experience.
Sumptuous fabrics are also a key trend for this year’s party season. Satin, velvet, silk and sequins, just not all at the same time. Team a simple velvet dress with some striking accessories in a trend colour, and you’ll be ready to party.

Whatever you choose to wear this party season, make sure it makes you feel great and give you a sparkle in your eye to rival the twinkling lights.

Pretty in Pink

Cobwebs, ghouls and overindulging on our favourite sweets, three things that co-exist within the month of October. After all, it’s time for Halloween. One thing that most people don’t realise however is that October is also the month to be pink. Tickled Pink.
Stores up and down high streets are adorned with the colour, from pastel to fuchsia, all in the name of Breast Cancer Awareness. And now all the fashionistas out there can be too!

Fashion retailers such as Debenhams, Marks and Spencer, Peacocks, along with brands like Adidas and Ultimo are collaborating with a number of cancer charity’s to raise money for the cause. Debenhams are this year’s exclusive retailer of the ‘Wear it Pink’ t-shirts, with designs from Red Herring, Betty Jackson, Jasper Conran, Julien MacDonald, and John Rocha, (30% of the profit going to the charity). Luckily for me, the t-shirts range in size from a 6 to a 20, so even we curvy girls can get in on the act.

Here I am, modelling the Red Herring version, which is right on (student) budget at £10. Looking good after a day at uni and work, I know, so glamorous. Got to love the Eeyore poster in the background too!

Now for any girl, not just my fellow curvy girls, finding a proper fitting bra can often be more hassle than it’s worth. Because we all know the proper underwear can be the making or breaking of a great outfit. But the gorgeous sets provided by Ultimo, in a generous range from A through to G cup, make things a little easier. And when a donation is made by Ultimo for every one of the special Breast Cancer Campaign sets sold, you can look and feel good by wearing it.

And if that wasn’t the best part of this year’s campaign, I also get to cycle to the moon. Yes, you did in fact read that correctly, I get to ‘cycle to the moon’. I am indeed being sent into space on a specially designed, hi-tech, super-bike, all in the name of charity!

What on earth will I wear? Violà, astronaut chic!

It does strangely look a bit like our '09 jumpsuit or padded shoulder revival, perhaps with some over-the-knee boots...

Haha, not likely. In reality, to raise money for the charity, Debenhams Aberdeen staff from the Lingerie, Cosmetics and Personal Shopper departments, myself included, will be taking turns on a stationary bike either in our store window or in the Mall, in hopes of cycling the distance to the moon.

Don't worry, I'll keep up to date on when this fab event will be taking place, feel free to come along and support us, it is for a good cause after all!

Now don’t forget the official day for ‘Wear it Pink’ is the 30th of October, so have a girly day and deck yourself out. It raises awareness and, come on, we all know you’ll look great!