Language of Love

The word love is bandied about often, but frequently only used to describe the more mundane, without any real feeling behind it.  You might say 'I love coffee' every single day but when was the last time you told a person that you loved them? 

La Redoute carried out a survey recently and found out that 22% of the UK has not said I love you in over a year and that only 30% of people say it daily, despite that more than half of us feel special when the words are uttered.  These statistics surprised me until I tried to think of the last time I told someone that I loved them and I could not remember. 

I love many people in my life.  My amazing mum who at 74 only looks 54 and acts much younger than her age.  I can only hope to look as good as she does when I reach 74!  My sister to whom I definitely do not say I love you enough too and my best friend, who is my rock and has been with me through thick and thin, through good times and bad.

La Redoute was founded in France in 1922 and after coming to the UK in 1995, they discovered that the UK needs a little inspiration when it comes to the language of love.  With this in mind they have created the video, complete with 'Mr La Redoute'. 

This video shows messages sent from family and partners to their loved ones, spoken in French by 'Mr La Redoute' and then the author comes out to translate the message.

 I loved seeing the reactions and responses of the people who received their messages.  First, the slight bewilderment at being addressed by an attractive French man and then the delight when their love ones come out and gave the translation.

After watching the video the first thing I did was ring my mum and tell her that I loved her.  It is such a small sentence 'I love you' but it can have a tremendous impact and can really make somebody's day.  

"If you love someone, you say it, right then, out loud.

Otherwise, the moment just passes you by"

(My Best Friend's Wedding)

At the moment you can also fall in love with French style with La Redoute who are currently offering £30.00 off a £75.00 spend when you use code 8401.

*In collaboration with La Redoute

Alexi Accessories

I was recently contacted by Jen of Alexi Accessories who are a new British jewellery brand.  I was asked if I wished to review something from their Signature Collection and of course I jumped at the chance. 

I decided to choose the hollow circle necklace* which is made from sterling silver and features cubic zirconia stones around the halo of the circle.  This necklace retails for £46.50.

The necklace is simple and elegant and will feature well either to add the finishing touches to an evening outfit or alternatively add a little sparkle to a workday outfit.   The chain is a good length, 16 inches with a 2 inch extension which is neither too short (don't you just hate it when that happens) or too long. 

I have worn this necklace for an evening out matched with a simple black dress and have also worn it at work with bright colours.  It is a piece that will work easily with your wardrobe as it will never date and has a contemporary elegant look.

There are some timeless pieces in the Signature Collection that will suit most people's tastes, they also have their Brooke Collection which has been inspired by nature and the world around us.   I particularly like the Ashleigh Pendant, which is very whimsical and ornate.

I would highly recommend that you check out this new jewellery brand which has some amazing pieces, either for yourself, a friend or family member.  A well placed hint to a significant other wouldn't lead them too far astray!

* This item was gifted to me but all views are my own.

Off to Plus North!

This weekend, along with many other plus size bloggers and lovely ladies (plus a husband or two!) I am heading to Leeds for Plus North. 

To say that I am both massively excited and nervous in equal measures in probably an understatement. 

Plus North last year was a real game changer in my life and the highlight of my year.  Being surrounded by people who had had similar life experiences to myself and knew how it felt was something very new to me. 

Plus North immediately felt like a safe environment where nerves were dissipated upon the first hello with people.  There was a wave of automatic acceptance and a friendliness from everyone that made me feel instantly at home.  I met so many amazing people whom I cannot wait to reconnect with this year as well as some faces that I have yet to meet in person and can't wait to do so. 

I have been lucky enough to be chosen to model again this year and will be on the catwalk, praying I do not fall or trip over, for Yours Clothing and So Fabulous. 

Me modelling for Yours Clothing last year!

If you are reading this, I hope to see you there!  If you are attending this year please give me a wave and a hello.  You may get a glazed look at first as I am horrible with putting names and faces together, even if I follow you online so bear with me!