Author: Adrian Blatherwick

Comfortable Fashion

There is nothing more important in fashion than being comfortable with what you’re wearing (In our opinion, anyway). There’s nothing worse than putting on your outfit, and it’s tight or itchy or hugging all the wrong places.

If you’re not already familiar with them, you should be. Shirt dresses are not only a comfortable option, it’s also stylish and easy to dress up or down.

Button It!

Obviously, wearing a shirt, you can have it buttoned up; this makes for more of a smart-styled outfit. Shirt dresses like the Fleur have properly cuffed long sleeves and a collar, also a flattering high-low shape so you’ll be fully covered at the back but still showing a little leg, so it’s elegant and dressy for a night out. Add on a little LJ’s Glow just to really show off your legs for a night on the town, and if you want to add a little extra shape, you can easily add a belt to accentuate your waist!

For a more casual look, check out the Afrika with rolled-back sleeves and a fun animal print; add a pair of trainers, and you’ve got a quick and easy day outfit without having to think too much and spend hours styling an outfit (we all know it’s easily done)

Open and Free

We love something with multiple uses! So, you don’t have to stop with just a dress. They’re shirts, and the buttons will undo, and you can layer up with these items. Now as much as we’re all dreaming of summer, this is England, and good ol’ UK weather is unpredictable. One minute it’s glorious sunshine; the next, it’s Gail force winds. So, by layering up, at least you’re a bit more prepared.

Shirt dresses will go beautifully on top of any outfit. Casual shirt and jeans, but you don’t want to lug around a big coat or jumper, add a stylish layer to keep the chill off and add a bit of character to your outfit. Then even add a blazer or coat on top of that; the stretchy shirt-like material isn’t bulky or too thick, so it can even work as an underlayer for those extra chilly days.

Holiday Helpers

Another great example is for those lazy, chilled beach days. Some of us curvier ladies aren’t always 100% comfortable strutting our stuff in just our swimming customers, so by adding this lightweight option; you can cover any insecurities while still looking FABULOUS!

Slip on a pair of wedges and do a couple of buttons, and you’ll be ready to jump from the beach to shops in seconds too.

Make Heads Turn

Now even though it sounds like a simple option and it can so easily be thrown into any outfit scenario, don’t think for a second LJ’s aren’t giving you the wow factor. You, Ladies, know by now we love bold and bright patterns, and even with the shirt dresses, you will make heads turn.

The Handbags & Gladrags shirt dress will give your wardrobe an Oomph with a bold and cherry pattern but that dash of denim to keep it very on-trend. Again, you can button it up to make it a statement item or casual and open it to just add to your outfit.

Wardrobe Must Have

Now these types of garments come around all year, the patterns and colours might differ slightly, but a shirt dress really is a well-rounded winner.

You may think it’s just a great holiday layer, but they really can be brought out on any occasion, even something a bit different for a job interview. Not only that, but simply add a pair of leggings, and they’ll be stylish all through winter too!

Get wedding guest ready

If you have a wedding or special occasion upcoming, then you may be starting to think about that all important outfit.
For plus size ladies and girls with curves it can seem daunting to find something that is both flattering and elegant which is also at an affordable price tag. But fear not, here at LJ’s Ladies boutique we are here to help with our range of plus size wedding guest dresses.

Embrace those curves

The first rule is to accentuate your assets. Don’t be shy about your curves, and remember that some ladies would love to have more shape to show off!
Focus firstly on what part of your body you love the most. Whether that’s your boobs, your bum or your neckline. Not sure which part is the best? Ask a friend or partner which part they love the most about your body! This may just even give you a little confidence boost.
Here’s our guide to showing off your assets. When your best feature is your….

Beautiful Boobs

If you’re blessed with a pair of boobs that you’re proud of, then one of our wrap over style dresses will be a winner for you! With a flattering v neckline, they accentuate your cleavage and give a womanly shape. We have a wide range of wrap dresses just perfect for weddings, holidays and special occasions. With an array of printed designs to choose from including; floral, vintage inspired, boho and contemporary.

Lovely Legs

Never underestimate the power of a beautiful pair of legs. If they are your best feature, then now is the time to let them shine! A shorter style dress or one with side splits will be the perfect option.
Team up with a cute pair of kitten heels or wedges to make them appear longer and why not add a hint of ‘LJ’s Glow’, the perfect natural looking tan to give you that sunshine glow all year round.

Killer Curves

Your best feature may be your all-over curvaceous body. If that’s the case, then you have a whole host of options to choose from that will make you feel incredible.
Opt for pieces with drawstrings that you can pull in to accentuate your shape. Maximising exactly the areas you love. Our popular plus size ‘Jumpsuits’ are ideal, with their detachable tie bands and elasticated leg cuffs. They offer both comfort and style and when teamed with a blazer can look incredibly smart.
Choose from plain or patterned depending on your preferred style.

Now you’ve got the look…..accessorize

Once you’ve found an outfit that you feel confident and comfortable in, it’s time to add those matching accessories. Either pick out a colour from the pattern of your dress and match that OR use Google’s colour wheel to find colours that compliment each other. When wearing dark colours like navy or black, choose an accessory with bright colours to make it ‘pop’ – something like fuchsia pink, orange or lime will look amazing and give you style and class.

Still not sure?

If you have an upcoming event or special occasion and need some fashion help, remember we offer one-on-one personal shopping experiences both instore and online via videocall.
Together we can try to help you find something that’s absolutely perfect!

How to wear shorts when you’re plus size

Shorts are a staple product in any wardrobe and are a fantastic option for summer and holidays.
Choosing the right pair of plus size shorts is crucial. Once you find the ones you love, you can unleash your creativity by making them work for you for many outfits to come.

Choose your shape

High rise shorts are usually the best for girls with curves, especially if you are blessed with an hourglass figure. Those mid to high rise options will accentuate your shape and give the most flattering result.
The shorter you are, the shorter you can afford to go with your shorts. It will help make your outfit look ‘just right’. For ladies that are a little taller, why not go for a longer pair or alternatively a pair of capri trousers or pedal pushers? Wide leg cropped trousers can also look well on some taller ladies.

Feel comfortable

You don’t just want to look good, you need to feel at your best too. Which is why choosing a pair of shorts that also offers comfort is important. By choosing a pair that has a material composition that includes elastic, you can bet that they’ll offer a better stretch than a traditional pair of shorts.
Loose leg shapes can also be a blessing on a warm day, where as shorts with a legging texture can help prevent thigh chaffing.

So now you’ve found your perfect, most comfortable pair – let’s look at how to style them…

Denim & Lace

For a feminine feel that is ON TREND all summer long, opt to mix the textures of denim and lace together. Choose your favourite pair of LJ’s denim shorts and team them with a floaty top that features broderie design or lace. Add a cute pair of wedge heels or trainer pumps and you’re good to go from beach to bar.

Blazer + Shorts + Heels

Whether it’s a hot date or a work outfit to knock the socks off your colleagues, adding a blazer can really pull an outfit together. We’d recommend choosing your favourite shorts first. If they’re a plain print, then why not add a jazzy print blazer OR T-shirt to compliment the look. If your shorts are patterned, then go classy with a plain coloured blazer. Add a pair of kitten or wedge heels and you’re sure to make heads turn.

Add a blouse or shirt

If you don’t want your shorts to look too ‘casual’ then add a fancy blouse into the equation.
A blouse, especially one with a pussybow collar can give your outfit a fashionable edge without looking like you’ve made ‘too much’ effort.
If you’d rather go for a more ‘relaxed coastal’ look then why not team your shorts with a plain vest and wear a loose shirt over the top in ‘open shacket’ style. By opting for an open shirt with a ‘high low’ shape you can modestly cover your bum whilst letting your legs still peep at the sun.

Don’t ever let your shape or size put you off wearing an item you love, however knowing these top tricks can help you get the most flattering look from your plus size maxi dress purchase.

What’s your height?

For ladies that are tall, a maxi dress can be a winning companion and often the best option to go for.
It will compliment your long legs and height. A maxi dress can be instantly elegant and is a great style of dress to choose to get the best from your height, regardless of your dress size.
For ladies who are on the shorter side, a maxi dress is best worn with a pair of heels. That way, you will get the full advantage of the long length style of the skirt. If you find heels a little too difficult to walk in, then perhaps go for a pair of wedges which will add length to your silhouette without the discomfort of walking in stilettoes.

Shape of the dress

There are so many options to choose from when it comes to fits of a maxi dress, and we’d recommend choosing a cut that works best for your figure.

Side split maxi dresses

– For example, if your legs are your best asset, why not go for a dress with a side split? Not only will it make movement in the dress so much easier, it will add a touch of elegance and help focus on your gorgeous pins!

Off the shoulder maxi dresses

If you love the shape of your neck and shoulders than a bardot style maxi dress is the answer! Not only do they give a sexy, casual vibe but they will take the focus off other areas of your body you may not love so much about yourself. A bardot will give focus to your head and neck. When choosing an off the shoulder look, you may want to avoid a big chunky necklace and prefer instead to opt for a chunky pair of earrings or even a delicate choker necklace for maximum chic.

Wrap over style maxi dresses

Our best selling shape, the ‘wrap over’ style maxi dresses are a great option for ultimate flattery. A cross over style top and elasticated middle will help accentuate the curves of your bust. The wrap over dresses usually also come with a waistband which you can utilise to shape your figure how you want. This is a great way of covering up a tummy in the most figure-friendly way.

Holidays and special occasions

A maxi dress can be the perfect choice for weddings, christenings, parties and vacations. By slipping into the right maxi dress you can automatically feel like a million dollars. It’s accentuating enough to give you a polished look whilst the length of a maxi can make you look more ‘dressed up’ – ideal for events and special occasions.

Top tip

Because of the length of a maxi dress, you may wish to add a long necklace to help elongate your body – it will not only add an edge of uniqueness to your outfit but also appears slimming.

Finding the best plus size jeans for women

All ladies deserve to find at least one pair of jeans they absolutely LOVE. A great pair can really boost your wardrobe and provide endless options for daytime, night-time and even special occasion looks.

Finding the best jeans for a curvy figure

Having curves needn’t impact your desire to get a great pair of jeans that fit just right. Here at LJ’s we have tried and tested each pair on our website to make sure there’s something for ladies sized 12-26. Our G-Smack collection offers the same stylish design you can expect from a pair of jeans but with the added bonus of STRETCH not found in regular denims. With a range of options to choose from, plus jackets to match – you can find our full G-Smack range over on our website.
Now you know we stock stylish plus size jeans, it’s time to choose the best jeans for a curvy figure that works best for you.

Plus size high waisted jeans

High waisted jeans are ON TREND right now, not only do they give you extra support around the tummy area, but they look great too. Unlike low rise jeans, a high waist pair means you’ll not need to keep pulling them up. You also don’t risk showing the world your ‘rear’ each time you bend over to pick something off the floor!
Personally, the high waist style is a no-brainer – it’s both practical and stylish and is one of our best selling styles.

Plus size mom jeans

Never has a mum looked so cool! All over social media right now, we’re seeing celebrities and influencers showing off their baggy mom jeans. A staple wardrobe piece that makes a casual look appear super trendy. Made to look like any mom’s favourite pair of jeans, they often come with a distressed look. The beauty of a decent pair of mom jeans is that during the day they can be teamed with anything. A simple hoodie and pair of trainers gives that perfect ‘school run’ look whereas you can also wear them with cute kitten heels, a band tee and blazer for a ‘hot date’ vibe.

Plus size jeggings

All the look of jeans with the comfort of leggings.
If you love to live in leggings but sometimes want the look of a jean, then a pair of ‘jeggings’ is ideal. Usually with an elasticated waistband, they feature a stretchy material – making them more comfortable than regular jeans. Once you find a stylish pair of plus size jeggings you won’t ever want to take them off! Soon you’ll be wearing them for everything; around the house, supermarket shopping, nights out and even work (they look great with a shirt).

Stylish plus size jeans

Although we stock a wide range of regular looking jeans, we also have some super stylish ones too.
If you’re looking for a bootcut, a 60’s flare or an ultimate ripped distressed look, here at LJ’s we can find a stylish pair of plus size jeans just for you!
Our full collection can be found here. Remember it gets updated on a regular basis, so it’s worth signing up to our newsletter to find out when new lines come in.

6 Months anniversary:

We’re very proud to say back in September LJ’s opened its second plus-size boutique, this time in the always expanding Yorkshire wildlife park – The Hive. Amongst a range of other beautiful shops and local artisan products is our stunning little boutique filled to the brim with plus size clothing, accessories and much more, currently up to size 28.

Our team takes pride in what they do and will always be there with a welcome smile and helpful hand to do everything they can to make you feel comfortable and confident.

We feel we’ve achieved so much in these quick 6 months, becoming a part of the wonderful community built here.

We’ve also experienced our first Christmas at The Hive, and their first Christmas market! Buzzing with excitement it definitely kept us busy with stalls, rides and food just one of many events that happen in Doncaster. Along side the market they also hosted the Winter Illuminations, a must see affair, enjoyed by all as you travel around the Wildlife park seeing magic after dark with their enchanting displays.

Make a day of it:

The Hive boutique is located only a quick 15minutes drive from our Armthorpe boutique. With only a short distance between us, don’t worry it’s definitely still worth visiting us at both and you’ll have a different experience at each. Armthorpe has now changed to our sales outlet, so you can pick up a bargain, have a coffee at the always popular Joanne’s cafe then make a trip over to the Hive for all things new and unique and have a delicious lunch at one of the Hive’s bistro’s and cafes.

Take a walk on the wild side:

The Hive is a fantastic up and coming destination for not for only shopping, but dining and entertainment too. With free parking available you can take your time perusing all the shops. A fun day for the whole family with UPROAR, kids play barn, to The Badger for local beers, wines and local snacks all the way through too treating yourself to a new outfit at LJ’s.

You can even make a full weekend of it! The Hive is free to enter but is obviously attached to the UK’s number 1 walkthrough wildlife conservation and rehabilitation attraction – The Yorkshire wildlife park, with onsite hotel The Hex, so there’s time for everything and something for everyone.

Are you not entertained?:

If you’re coming to visit us here in Doncaster look out for the many exciting events that will be popping up at The Hive. We’re so lucky to be able to say we’re located in such a fantastic and exciting place. The Yorkshire Wildlife park hosts events all year round including one very soon in April “The Wildest Wizard of Oz” which involves meet & greets, live shows and stalls. August sees the appearance of the one and only Olly Murs! So make sure you check out all the upcoming happenings at the park and make sure to pop in and see us during your visit.

Leesa makes it on to the entrepreneur ialso2023 list

In January of 2023, the whole LJ’s team were buzzed to hear that their boss, the LJ’s founder – Leesa Sharpe had made it on to a prestigious list of entrepreneurs in the UK.
The F.Entrepreneur is focused on the success of women in business and looks at hundreds of applications from women-led companies from around the UK.

#ialso1002023

Leesa was incredibly humbled to receive this award and is now looking forward to meeting up with the other winners at a tea party to be held at the House of Lords in just a few weeks time.
To win an award doing something you absolutely love is incredible, and Leesa is looking forward to meeting some other like-minded women whom may also share her passion to create growing businesses that focus on the benefit of women around the nation.

The story behind the F:Entrepreneur

Michelle Ovens CBE is a small business enterprise expert who runs Small Business Britain, an organisation with a world class track record in the conception, management and execution of high profile, national campaigns particularly in the small business and enterprise sectors.
She set up the f:entrepreneur Campaign, which launched on International Womens Day 2017, because of the growing sense that there should be more recognition for the power women who run so many businesses in the UK.

The Campaign

The goal of the campaign is to celebrate the dynamic and inspirational businesses led by women in the UK.
The campaign is aimed at both men and women, because everyone has something to learn from these stories of challenge and success. Through events, content and story-telling , f:entrepreneur showcases role models to help and inspire all small businesses.

It pays to shop at LJs ladies curve and plus size fashion boutique

In January 2023, LJ’s boutique launched their very first online rewards points scheme.
A brand new way to appreciate and reward the loyalty of returning customers.
The offer now means that you can rack up points on your website fashion purchases.
Once saved up, these points can then be spent on future orders through the LJ’s ladies boutique website.
Every 10 points gained is currently equivalent to a £1 saving.

Rewards scheme now live

LJ’s customers are already starting to benefit from the rewards scheme.
With every 10 points saved, resulting in £1 off a future order
??? – get points for items you buy on our website – it will tell you under each item how many points you’ll get
???? – Every time you get to 10 points, that is £1 you can spend on a future order – keep racking them up to watch your points grow
????? – Spend your points when you’re ready on a future order. Simply allocate them to your purchase on checkout

Available for account holders only

In order to register for the rewards scheme and take full advantage of the benefits it offers, customers must first register an account on the LJ’s ladies boutique website.

Registration is free and easy and your account can be created in minutes.
Once an account is activated you can then use this to track orders, add funds to the savings club and of course manage your reward points.

(Remember – you MUST be logged into your LJ’s account to get points, we cannot add them on at a later stage)

Get shopping

All you have to do to accrue your points, is to shop online as usual and watch your points grow with each purchase you make.
It’s worth noting that there are some restrictions to the deal – points will not be gained from sale items or anything already discounted. Customers also using coupon codes to save money on their order will notice that points will not be added to these orders either.

If you’re not sure, simply head over to the terms and conditions page on the website to read about it in more detail.

Full terms and conditions can be found here on the website.

Spend your rewards

You’ll be able to login to your account and see how many points you’ve saved.
Once you’ve got enough to spend, it will give you the option on checkout to allocate the savings to your purchase.
Not sure how many points each item is worth? Under each product description on the website it will show you how many potential points you can gain from that particular item
So what are you waiting for? If you’ve seen something you like – it’s a fantastic excuse to treat yourself!

Our Armthorpe store becomes a savings outlet.

From January 2023 the LJ’s Ladies boutique Armthorpe store has become an official outlet for the company. From now on, customers will be able to visit this shop in Doncaster and expect to see constant savings of up to 50% off the recommended retail price.

Find the LJ’s Outlet in Armthorpe

Located just off the roundabout on Mill street in Armthorpe, Doncaster the store is easy to find and offers free parking outside on a first come, first served basis.
The Armthorpe outlet is approximately 15 minutes by car from Doncaster train station and around 4 minutes from junction 4 of the M18 motorway.
The boutique is open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm and alongside being a fabulous place to shop for ladies’ curve and plus size fashion, it’s also the click and collect point for any orders made on the LJ’s website www.ljsladiesboutique.co.uk

What’s in the LJ’s outlet store?

Inside the outlet you will find an array of choice in ladies clothing and accessories. With a focus on colour and comfort it stocks UK sizes 12-26 providing a wonderful selection for curvy and plus size women. With savings of up to 50% off the recommended retail price. LJ’s boutique is a fast-fashion business that is constantly keeping in trend with the latest fashion styles – something its customers love. The items on the website are in line with the current season. The good news is, that some of the pieces you can find in the outlet are just a couple of weeks out of that season – meaning you can get some very funky pieces at a fraction of the cost.
Because all items in the outlet are sale items, it’s important to remind you that there are absolutely no returns. But no need to worry because the outlet shop offers comfortable changing rooms so you can try on before you buy.

Save up to 50%

The LJ’s customers are delighted to travel here to pick up some exclusive bargains that aren’t available online. We’ve had some incredible feedback, with many ladies saying it’s been worth the travel due to the savings they’ve made on the clothes.
If you aren’t local to the South Yorkshire area then we’d still highly recommend a visit to the outlet. It is also around 10 minutes drive to the other boutique at The Yorkshire Hive (located near the Yorkshire wildlife park) so anybody wishing to see the latest stock may wish to combine the two together and visit both boutiques in one day.

Take a virtual walk-around

If you’d like to see exactly what you can expect when you get to the Armthorpe boutique, please see the youtube channel with virtual walkaround.

Trying to make a difference

LJ’s founder, Leesa Sharpe has always had a large place in her heart for charitable causes. Having previously ran a local charity ‘Pride of the Isle’ she understands the tireless work involved.
Since covid and the recent ‘cost of living’ crisis, charities are struggling more and more to generate funds to keep providing the services they do.
Leesa believes deeply that it is important to give back as much as you can. For this reason, each year she chooses a new charity to support.

Choosing Eves Trust

In May 2022, Leesa approached the ‘Eves Trust’ a Doncaster based charity whose main goal is to create memories and dreams for terminally or seriously ill cancer patients in the area.
The LJ’s team got together and put together a plan as to how they were going to raise the funds. The first being a sponsored sky dive.
Leesa and John bravely dropped from a plane at the Hibaldstow Sky Dive centre, on what was one of the hottest days of the year. Certainly, a brave thing to do, but the focus was on raising funds and generating awareness for the charity. It was worth facing those fears.
The dive was completed in the summer and was the beginning of a number of fundraising events planned to raise funds for the charity.

Extending the support

Leesa never anticipated that at the end of the summer she would need to call on the charity. One of the LJ’s boutique regular customers was diagnosed with terminal cancer and the whole team were saddened by the news. Clynton from Eve’s Trust spoke with Leesa and together they discussed creating some memories for the lady and her family.
Shortly after, Leesa pledged that the LJ’s team would continue to support Eves Trust for a further year and a target of £5000 was set.

Sending stars

Facebook stars is a feature that allows a channel to monetize their video and audio content.
Because LJ’s Boutique hosts many live streams on the Facebook platform, this became another way that funds could be raised effortlessly.
Viewers can buy stars and send them when watching a live or past live video that has stars enabled. For every star received, Facebook pays around $0.01 US.
LJ’s, therefore, decided to donate any ‘stars’ sent by watchers to the charity. Thus, adding to the ‘Eves Trust Kitty’.

The Santa Dash

In December 2022, LJ’s team members Natalie and Claire decided to take part in the Santa Dash organised by the Eves Trust charity at the Doncaster Toll Bar Rugby Club.
As non-runners, the 5K was a challenge for the pair, however, they decided to not only race but to also compete in fancy dress.
With a ‘Christmas theme’ in mind, the girls made their own costumes out of cardboard boxes they’d found in the back of the warehouse. When mixed with an array of wrapping paper, bows and tinsel they soon became complete ‘Christmas presents’.
The plan was, that anyone who donated £5 could have a Christmas Tag with a message for a loved one (past or present) glued to their costumes.
Running the course was treacherous on the day, with ice and winter temperatures in the minuses.
However, with the goal of raising vital funds on the horizon, Claire and Natalie completed the course in around 45 minutes – raising a grand total of £300 for the charity pot.
The morning was ‘topped off’ by them also winning a medal for the best fancy dress.
They’re already planning their costumes for next years’ event….

Future charity plans

With such a large goal pledged, the LJ’s team will be thinking and working through various charitable events throughout the year. Please follow the socials to be kept updated.
If you’d like to learn more about the Eve’s Trust you can visit their website here.

To donate to the kitty, here’s the direct link to the LJ’s pot.