Psst... Free delivery at Monsoon

I know I've said it a million times, but I just can't help but adore Monsoon's fabrics. Just look at this lovely Lila applique dress for example. If this dress doesn't say spring to you, I don't know what does. You can currently get free delivery on purchases over £100 at monsoon.co.uk.

Diva of the Week - Christina

DIVA of the week is a feature that showcases people with an inspirational personal style. DIVA of the week is someone who's not afraid to have fun with clothes and who dresses to please herself, and in doing so, brightens up everyone else's day.


Christina 23
Washington DC, US

How would you describe your personal style?
I don't think I have a definitive style because my interests in fashion changes weekly. I'm inspired by a lot of different things so I'm always trying to incorporate something new into my wardrobe. However the thing that's constant is the pairing of contrasts. I love to pair hard with soft, structured with whimsical, vintage with a trashy edge etc. I think those combinations make for an interesting visual.

What are you wearing today?
This floral dress is one of the many gems that I found on eBay a while ago. I paired it with a yellow skirt that I bought from Alloy to make the colors of the dress pop a bit more. I love the combination of the floral dress with the tough leather and metal hardware of the Torrid belt and I think it makes the lace of the tights seem less delicate. I wore it with the cardigan I picked up from Target and some oxfords from Nine West..

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If you want to be featured as DIVA of the Week, send a good quality photograph, preferably taken outside, and answers to the questions: 'Name/Age/Location', 'How would you describe your personal style?', and 'What are you wearing today (in the picture)?' to diva [at] divalookbook.com.

P.S. Come and post your wardrobe pictures into the DLB Flickr group!

My Wardrobe Diary

Off to shoot a wedding...

Top: New Look
Trousers: Monsoon
Shoes: Kangaroos
Bangle: Evans
Ring: Market in Rome

Come and post your wardrobe pictures into the DLB Flickr group!

Psst... dp VIP promotion

Today Dorothy Perkins launched an exclusive VIP event, where you can get 20% off everything on their website, starting from today. All you have to do is enter your email address in to this form here. The promotion runs until Sunday 5 April.

The SWAKdesigns styling challenge

Do you enjoy the process of creating different looks and thinking about how to style outfits? Would you fancy winning a gorgeous top from SWAKdesigns? Well here's your chance to combine the two. If you fancy yourself a bit of a style-queen, we want you to show us your skills and create a Look Book!

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to create a look for an early summer picnic party. Your Look Book must include one item of clothing from SWAKdesigns, but you can style it with any other items from other sources as you see fit.

Obviously, ideally we'd want to see beautifully compiled pictures of your Look Books, but understandably not everyone has access to the right software to create an image. So if you really can't create a picture, just provide links to all the items included in your look.

The winner will be drawn randomly (since you can't really 'jugde' style), and they will receive this gorgeous Opal top (one size, check website for measurements) in Fuchsia. It really is a fabulous addition to your spring/summer wardrobe! Also, our favourite Look Books will be showcased on DLB.

To enter, Email entries to diva [at] divalookbook.com and leave a comment to this entry saying you have done so.

This contest closes on Thursday 30th April at 5pm GMT.

Psst... dresses galore at dp

There are currently a load of cute dresses over at Dorothy Perkins, such as this black fringe drop waist dress, now just £20. Also, don't forget to use the offer code SPRING2 for free delivery when you spend over £40, and to get an extra 20% off when you spend over £75.

Guest starring - Shopping tips for the smaller plus size girls

In this article Marie Denee from Curvy.Confident.Chic. gives shopping advice to girls at the smaller end of the plus size spectrum.
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On the Smaller End Of Plus Size

Are you a Plus Size Fashionista with curves who is between a size 10 and 16? Are you sized out of many designers and too small for plus size? Are you frustrated when you go into a store looking for your size, to find it is either out of stock or never in stock?

Finding these sizes can be extremely frustrating when trying to shop either the contemporary or the missy departments. When the average size woman is a size 14 or higher, why can’t we find fashion- forward clothing like our slimmer straight sized friends? So what is a curvy girl to do?

Do your homework! Yes, it is time consuming and it can be frustrating, but patience is our only virtue! However, do not fret, I being a curvy woman (size 16+) in retail have some tips to assist you with your curvy endeavours!

1. Be positive and take your time
Shopping for that special outfit can sometimes feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. When embarking on this endeavour, bring with you a positive and optimistic mind and your experience will be a better. Knowing that there are limited designers and retailers who cater to you and your curves will help set the pace and tone when shopping!

2. Never judge an item on the hanger - try it on!
Many treasures are never found when you judge an item on its hanger. If it has piqued your interest, try it on! Do not knock it until you rock it!

3. Always invest in quality over quantity
Investing in quality pieces will enhance your wardrobe, enabling the foundations of your wardrobe to last longer. Because you have curves, certain fabrics and cuts need to drape (hang and fall) in certain places.

It is better to have two basic blouses that do not pucker or pull and look fabulous than ten tops you are constantly pulling or tugging at! And honestly, doesn’t it feel good when you have on an outfit that feels perfect? When you look amazing, you feel amazing too!

4. Always invest in what fits now - not later when you 'lose the weight'
Ladies, I have been working in retail for about ten years, and it never fails that I hear women excuse their purchase because they are going to lose weight. This only sets you up for failure and frustration! Then when we do not lose the weight, we are left with a closet full of clothes that we wish we could wear (with the tags still on) - too embarrassed or proud to return the merchandise. (I have done this a time or two.) Should you be one who loses the weight, take your items to a tailor! This leads me to the next tip!

5. Love thy tailor!
Have you ever seen a woman whose outfit looks impeccable! Pants hit at the perfect length and the waist fits her perfectly. Chances are that she has been to the tailor. Using a tailor allows you to tweak your purchases to feel tailor made for you and your curves.

Do your jeans or pants gap at the waist but the pants fit perfectly elsewhere? Take them to a tailor. Is the inseam too long for your legs, get them shortened! Are the sleeves too long? Does the blouse fit across the chest but baggy in the waist? Take them to a tailor? Get my drift? Nothing feels better when an item is altered to fit YOU and YOUR amazing curves.

6. Not every designer will work for your amazing curves
Each designer creates clothes with a certain muse or inspiration in mind. While some manage to capture the silhouette of a curvy client, not all keep her in mind, and that is okay. As you shop around for clothing, keep in mind those who cater and those who do not. For example, I know I cannot wear Theory (although I love their look), but I do know that I can go to Elie Tahari for a similar look! Elie Tahari designs manage to fit my thick thighs and ample bum and carries up to a 16 and XL!

The only way I was able to know about this designer was by trying them on! Yes, I pay a little bit more for their pieces, but the fit and fashion is so sharp and last forever - when you care for them!

7. Make friends with your sales associate!
Now that you have found a retailer and designer that cater to your curves and tastes, make friends with the sales associate who helped you! Why? As long as it took you to find these items, how amazing would it be to have someone 'on the inside' to notify you about sales, new deliveries, trends, and exclusives? This move will ensure your shopping trips to be fruitful, pleasant, and fun!

Now that we have gotten the basics down, when are we going shopping?

Keep it Curvy.Confident.Chic.

Article written by Marie Denee from Curvy.Confident.Chic.

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If you would like to write an article on a subject that you think would be a good fit for DIVA Look Book, you can submit your ideas it via the contact page.

Hot off the Press - Anna Scholz gets new website

The completely revamped website for Anna Schulz has just launched!

Visit www.annascholz.com to take advantage of the site’s fabulous new features, such as 'Complete the Look' and 'Related Items'. There is also a new fun and personal 'About Anna' page where you can learn more about the designer's life, her design inspirations, and favourite pieces in the new collection, which by the way, is gorgeous!

My Wardrobe Diary

Off to celebrate husband's mother's Mother's Day.

Dress: Monsoon sale
Wet look leggings (dress was looking a bit twee so tried to add some rock): Torrid
Boots & bangles: Evans
Clutch: Xmas present (H&M)
Necklace: Visioluxus

Come and post your wardrobe pictures into the DLB Flickr group!

Psst... 15% off at New Look

The sun is out and it's time to add a bit of colour to your wardrobe. Updating your look doesn't need to break the bank either, as with this New Look voucher you'll get 15% off your shopping!

Hot off the Press - Goodie Bag Winner

In this week's Goodie Bag, I asked who you think was the biggest fashion icon of the 80's. Unsurprisingly, Madonna was hailed as the queen of 80's style by most of you. But there were also votes for other kick-ass girls who were leading the way where it came to fashion way back when. Personally I think it was specifically the girls in rock that provide inspiration that has hugely affected fashion throughout the years up until today. Just take a look at these examples from Madonna, Pat Benatar, Debbie Harry, Cyndi Lauper and Joan Jett. Everything that's on the high streets today, from wet look leggings, to coloured skinnies, harem pants, baggy tees, bangles, off the shoulder tops and big earrings can be seen here.



As usual, the winner of this week's Goodie Bag was drawn randomly, and this time lady luck smiled on Evita! Congratulations! :) (p.s. Can you please email me your address so I can post your goodies to you.)

Psst... $25 off at Torrid

For 4 days only, you can get $25 off your total when you spend $100 or more on your purchase at Torrid. Why not take advantage of this great offer and indulge in the new spring collections! Use code DENIMLOOK at checkout. Offer ends Sunday 22 March.

Psst... Monsoon mid-season sale

The Monsoon mid-season sale kicks off today with up to 50% off selected items. I might just have to go have a little looksie at a Monsoon store tomorrow...

Goodie Bag - 80's style icons

The Goodie Bag feature is where I host little contests and promotions, which give you a chance to bag yourself something nice and add some cheer to your day.



In this week's Goodie Bag are:

• Starry leg warmers from Torrid
  
• Funky I heart mixtape belt buckle from Punky Pins
  
• Cute rollerskate earrings from Punky Pins

Good morning everyone! I hope your week is starting up nicely. I'm still in a bit of an 80's mood, and this week's goodie bag sure reflects that. :D

If you want to make like a rollergirl in these cute as hell leg warmers and earrings, do the following: name your favourite style icon from the 80's, someone who you think is still influencing the look of fashion today.

Oh and just to give you a head's up, there's another contest coming your way soon, which will challenge you styling skills - and the prize for that one is pretty sweet. The contest will run independently from the goodie bag give-aways and there will be a more generous deadline. But more about that later on...

To be in for a chance to win this week's Goodie Bag, comment on this entry with whom you think is the most influental 80's style icon. As a bonus, if you link back to this entry, you will be entered into the draw twice.

This contest closes on Friday 20th March at 5pm GMT. I'll draw the winner later on Friday night, and will aim to announce it by the end of the weekend.

Addicted to... the 80's

• Purple clutch bag from Dorothy Perkins.
• Pink animal print top from Evans.
• Jade collared bomber jacket from New Look.
• Turquoise Reebok Freestyle Hi Bright trainers from VivaLaDiva.
• Kiss me quick necklace from Punky Pins.
• Hot pink lightning bolt earrings from Punky Pins.
• Freeze frame print leggings from Topshop.
• Black leather 80's point court shoes from ASOS.
• Turquoise Ray Ban Wayfarer sunglasses from ASOS.

Layla Loves - Mineral make-up

What Layla doesn't know about beauty and make-up isn't worth knowing! Layla♥Loves is a feature where you can find information on skincare and make-up, and drool over the latest new products. If you have a skincare related question for Layla, direct your emails to layla [at] divalookbook.com.

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As requested by Juu I thought I would give Mineral Make-up a run down. Large makeup brands have started bringin out mineral makeup, which claims to be much better for your skin. But what is mineral make-up? And is it worth it?

Photo: Bare Faced Beauty

Here is a quick list of the Pro’s & Con’s of Mineral Make-Up

Pro’s

• Mineral Foundations contain ingredients with Natural UV Protection, this is great for those a unexpected sunny days. With climate change being a real problem now, UV protection is SO important.
• Mineral Makeups have less ingrediants than normal cosmetics. This is great for those who really care for thier skin as there is hardley any “science lab” ingrediants. With Mineral Foundation is alot easier to learn about what you are putting on your face.
• For those of you with sensitive skin, Minerals are a great! With a low amount of ingredients its easy to decifer whether or not it will harm your skin.
• Mineral Makeup is Water Resistant, so for those common “rain at the train station” moments you wont look like The Joker!
• At the moment, its pretty easy to get Mineral Makeup! A few years ago you would have a fairly hard job to find them, but with large companies now seeing the huge demand for these cosmetics. Most high street brands have come out with a line of Mineral Makeup, so try it out!

Con’s

• Although it is a good point, the face that Mineral Makeup is water resistant, this makes it difficult to remove, which is time consuming when you want to go to bed!
• Most Mineral foundations are in powder form. This can be so messy when you are applying in a rush, or wearing dark clothes. The loose powder form is also difficult to travel with, no-one wants to open thier makeup bag after a long flight to find a £20 foundation everywhere!
• A huge issue with Mineral makeup is the price. If you mention Minerals to most people they will not use it as its expensive. Hopefully with larger brands making these make-up styles they will become a bit more affordable.
• Mineral Make-up, although is made with less ingredients – therefore slightly better, it can leave the skin very itchy when mixed with sweat. So try to wear it when its not so warm!
• In my use of Mineral Foundations, I’ve noticed that they really show off fine lines and wrinkles! This could be due to the loose powder format, but this is still a thought to consider.

Photo: MAC Mineralize

Top 3 Mineral Makeup Brands

1. Bare Faced Beauty
One of the first exclusive mineral only makeup brands. With lipsticks, foundations, eyeshadows and blushers. Check out their brush sets too.

2. MAC Mineralize
With a full range of shadows, foundations (both liquid AND powder) and blush these are not to be missed. MAC, as usual, have the best range of colours I’ve seen in mineral makeup.

3. Lily Lolo Mineral Cosmetics
These are another online site made specifically for mineral makeup. These are gorgeous subtle colours for everyday wear. These are gorgeous and affordable.

From catwalk to closet - Get Ruffled Up

From catwalk to closet takes a look at the hottest trends on the runway and shows you where to find the key items for your own wardrobe.



Ruffles and pleats bring a cheerfully feminine, even girly, flair to outfits, while maintaining a sophisticated look at the same time. You can either go outrageous with all out ruffles as seen on S/S runways, or perk up a plain outfit with a ruffled top or some cute frill gloves.

• Black Lavonne pleated pencil skirt from Monsoon.
• Black leather frill gloves from Dorothy Perkins.
• Black triple bar court shoes from Evans.
• Fuschia frill chiffon top, as seen here.
• Black Catherine leather bow clutch from Accessorize.
• Black flower and crystal ring from Oasis.

Runway image: www.elleuk.com

Hot off the Press - Hello Kitty for Mac

MAC have collaborated with the Queen of Cute Hello Kitty! These limited edition pieces of makeup include blushes, lipstick, glosses, hi-lighters. They have the cutest designs and are definately collectors items! So Hurry up before they sell out!

Hot off the Press - Goodie Bag Winner

In this week's Goodie Bag, I asked what's your favourite thing about spring. The warm weather of the previous week had gotten me quite excited about the prospect of spring having arrived, but the temperature plummeting again this week sent me back to earth! But yes, it's quite clear after this setback that what I'm looking forward to the most is the warmth. And of course the light and the longer days. *Sigh* Soon, please can we have it soon.

Thanks so much to all of you who took part! It's always so nice to hear from you. :) I urge you to join the DLB flickr group, so we can share daily outfit pics and use the forum for everything from discussions on trends to clothes swap shops. Hopefully it will evolve into a fun place!

As usual, the winner of this week's Goodie Bag was drawn randomly, and this time lady luck smiled on Salla! Congratulations! :) (p.s. Can you please email me your address so I can post your goodies to you.)

Pss... Anna Scholz sale

Be sure not to miss the Anna Scholz sale, with up to 50% off loads of items! Her dresses especially are to die for...

Look Book - Paint it Black

Look Book feature is the backbone of DIVA Look Book. It's where I pull together workable looks for different occasions from clothes that can be found in most plus sizes. There's no excuse for every girl not to look, and feel, fabulous!



The secret of getting an all-black outfit looking interesting, instead of boring or alternatively overly 'goth', is to mix and match different fabrics, textures and shades of black. Used inventively, black is a great colour for creating a sharp outline and giving some rock'n'roll edge to your outfit.

• Black shirt dress with belt from Carmakoma.
• Black Kate wet look jeggings from ASOS (these go up to size 20 and are very stretchy + comfy)
  
• Black square heeled boots from New Look.
• Black Magen agate ring frm The Carrotbox.
• Black suede stud bag from Topshop.
• Black plastic wide bangle from Evans.
• Black block art silk scarf from Topshop.

Psst... Dorothy Perkins March offers

To celebrate March, you can currently get up to 50% off on selected items at Dorothy Perkins.

My Wardrobe Diary

Top: Yours
Trousers: H&M
Boots: Evans
Bangle: Topshop
Watch: Muji

Well, I finally got around to it. I've been thinking about doing it for some time, but couldn't quite get my head around to what would be the easiest way to do it. I've been a member of the wardrobe_remix group on Flickr for quite some time, and I've been posting my wardrobe pictures on my personal blog as a result, but lately I've been feeling that they'd be more at home here. So now I've added some pictures from the past, and will be posting my future wardrobe pictures to both blogs (I think).

Also, do come and join my new Flickr group for the fans of DIVA Look Book!

Hot off the Press - Get the Look at Simply Be

On Friday 6 March, Simply Be will launch their latest ‘Get the look’ catwalk-inspired collections on-line. There are three new trends to choose from: the pretty prairie chic of Homespun, the sexy señorita style of Mexican Sunset and the eclectic edginess of Bohemian Boutique. You will also be able to see each outfit from all three collections in action on catwalk videos.

Homespun

Prairie chic meets English rose in this folksy fashion trend. Pretty prints, lace and crochet pick up a delicate colour palette of soft blue and oatmeal sweetened with a splash of cherry red. Shapes are feminine with frills, smocking and beautifully billowy sleeves.

Mexican Sunset

Inca and Aztec ethnic accents influence maxi-dress and tunic shapes in scorched earth shades of orange, terracotta and black. Prints are big and bold, from butterflies to florals. Don’t forget the bronzer for a sexy sun-kissed glow.

Bohemian Boutique

Get to the forefront of fashion with this riot of free spirited romanticism and edgy eclecticism. Cobalt and magenta go into the melting pot with pleats, tiers and frills. Mix feminine with fierce in a celebration of the offbeat and original.

The Simply Be ‘Get the Look’ fashion collections will be available on-line next Friday!

Psst... Office Clearance

If you're looking for a sure-fire way of sprucing up your existing look without breaking the bank, why not invest in a new pair of shoes! Become sale-savvy and bag yourself an online bargain at the Office Clearance, with selected items up to 85% off! Just look at these gorgeous cross-eye sandals for example, now only £10!

Goodie Bag - Best thing about spring

The Goodie Bag feature is where I host little contests and promotions, which give you a chance to bag yourself something nice and add some cheer to your day.



In this week's Goodie Bag are:

• A gorgeous charm belt for jeans or a bag
• Funky skulls bracelet from Torrid
  
• Cute Cadillac necklace and guitar earrings from Punky Pins

Hello ya'll! I know, I know... it's been shamefully quiet around here. I just have so much on my plate right now that I can't seem to stretch everywhere at the same time. Bear with me! I promise to try as hard as I can to keep DLB going, even if it will be a bit slower going for the moment, I really don't want to give up on it just yet.

I hope you're all good. I certainly have noticed the days getting longer and warmer, which is super nice. It makes my step lighter and gives me renewed confidence in following my heart. I wonder if people who live in places with all-year sunshine accomplish a lot more in life? I definitely feel like I can get a lot more done now already, than in the dark short winter days.

For this week's goodie bag contest, there's no difficult questions. Just tell me what's your favourite thing about spring?

To be in for a chance to win this Goodie Bag, comment on this entry with what is the thing you look forward to most in spring. As a bonus, if you link back to this entry, you will be entered into the draw twice.

This contest closes on Friday 6th March at 5pm GMT. I'll draw the winner later on Friday night, and will aim to announce it by the end of the weekend.