We’re sizes 10 & 18 and did a New Look winter haul – it’s a burgundy dream & boots pass chunky test
SHOPPING can sometimes feel stressful when you’re looking for the perfect buy to flatter your figure.
You want something to make your boobs look bigger or smaller, you’re self-conscious about your tummy or you simply don’t think the store will cater to your dress size.
Me and my work bestie Lynn are fashionistas with very different figures.
At 33-years-old, I’m a big-boobed and petite size 18. Meanwhile, Lynn, 44, is a gorgeous size 10 momma.
But we both struggle with body issues. We are now trying to step out of our comfort zones to help our fellow shoppers find the best stores for size inclusive fashion.
We’ve been scouring fan-favourite supermarkets and high street stores to find the right outfits for every occasion – and for everybody.
Recently, we put New Look to the test to see how it measured up for sizing and what it had to offer for AW24.
And it was all about the colour of the season.
We spotted a gorgeous burgundy chiffon maxi dress on the website for £35.99, and it inspired our entire haul.
With a subtle leopard print, it ticks the box for the viral print on top of being the colour of autumn.
It’s also super comfortable, flattering and versatile.
I had read reviews that it has a slightly smaller fit than usual though so I sized up to a 20, and it was definitely the right decision as it skimmed over all of my self-conscious areas.
Lynn, meanwhile, went true to size and thought it was perfect.
We continued our burgundy spree with a pair of heeled ankle boots for £39.99.
New Look instantly gains brownie points for offering a wide fit option, which also pass the chunky ankle test.
And despite being heeled, they are still incredibly comfortable and make any outfit look dressier.
We finished the look with a cropped plum jacket in a cosy felt material for £36.99, both sizing up so we can pair it with jumpers and hoodies too.
Next up, for some office twinning vibes, we picked up a monochrome work outfit.
We bagged a midi faux leather pencil skirt for £35 and £18.99 cream jumper.
Lynn confessed that the skirt was a definite wildcard for her as she feared it wouldn’t be age appropriate. But we were both very happy with the overall look, and the quality was amazing for the price.
It was giving stylish leather vibes without veering into sexy secretary territory.
I underestimated New Look with their sizing on this one, however, after sizing up to a 20. I had feared I would look like a stuffed sausage by going true to size but it was so comfortable and generous that there’s no need to opt for the extra room.
For footwear this time, we spied a bargain Ganni dupe.
Priced at just £37.99, the black patent heels with buckle detailing are more than £300 cheaper than the designer version.
Our final buy was a return to form with burgundy.
And we both agreed that the £18.99 wide-legged ribbed trousers were like wearing a cloud.
Christmas Fashion Tips from an Expert
CLEMMIE Fieldsend, Fashion Editor at Fabulous, has shared her top tips for looking fabulous this Christmas.
AVOID: Christmas jumpers
No longer a novelty gag, they’re now gone back to being naff and have no place at a festive party.
By all means, go all in for Christmas Jumper Day for Save The Children, but never wear it before or after that day.
WEAR: Burgundy
You can’t escape burgundy at this time of year and it’s a luxury, deep and rich colour that is a welcome break from Santa-red at Christmas.
Opt for silky textures or velvet for extra style points.
AVOID: PJs
The trend of feather trimmed co-ords has had its day and is so dated.
Don’t pull out your hair plucked pair this year, and don’t get a new set, instead still go for the satin two-piece but just steer clear of the plumes.
WEAR: Sequin Dress
Try to switch up sequins slightly by wearing them with a different texture or colour, eg a sequin skirt with a sleek knit.
But when you’re really stuck on what to wear reach for the sequins, it is Christmas after all.
AVOID: Sequin blazer
Nothing worse than showing up to a festive do looking like the hired entertainment.
Leave the sequin blazer to magicians and Strictly judges, instead always reach for a classic tux style or velvet.
WEAR: Bling trousers
Last party season embellished jeans with diamante bling had a moment, and this year they’re going to be as much of a hit.
If you don’t want gemstones pinging off wherever you go then try metallic, PU trousers
As shorter gals, we did have to turn up the waistband so they weren’t too long but the quality and comfort makes it more than worth it.
They will be perfect for travelling, lounging and coffee dates too. The bargain price point is a bonus.
Overall, the New Look haul gets a well-deserved 10 out of 10.
It’s definitely been our reminder of why it is such a giant on the high street.
And check out our other ‘For Everybody‘ hauls for some more inspiration.
So far we have put Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing autumn collection to the test and walked away with some fantastic wardrobe staples including an £18 leopard print dress that suits any occasion.
Meanwhile, River Island impressed with their fall fashion – and we discovered the coat of the season.
We’ve also found the best alternative to the viral jumper in Primark, as well as some surprise jeans and trousers that are AW24 staples.
Elsewhere, we bagged the dream wedding guest dress that flatters all shapes in Quiz – and it’s under £40.