So Fabulous Aztec Dipped Hem Vest

Of all our ranges here at Littlewoods, one of our favourites is So Fabulous, our fashionable range of gorgeous women’s clothing for sizes 14 to 32. Unlike some other retailers, we don’t think that if you need a bigger size, you should be paying a bigger price, and all our So Fabulous plus sized women’s clothes are available with the same flexible payment options as the rest of our clothing, so it’s win-win all round.

This season, we’ve created a collection of pretty spring fashions combined with future classics for our So Fabulous label that will give your wardrobe a much needed summer boost, and – of course – all of them are bang on trend!

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe with something that can take you from day to night and work to play easily, then investing in a pretty on-trend blouse or top is a great option. Our So Fabulous Lace Tunic in a delicious cream colour features a lace overlay for a fabulously feminine top that still covers your arms and creates a flattering silhouette, and is great teamed with skinny jeans or formal trousers for work.

So Fabulous Waikiki Ultra Wide Fit Mary Jane Sandals

We also really like the So Fabulous Aztec Dipped Hem Vest, which taps into this season’s trend for anything tribal patterned: tuck into a fitted skirt for a stylish yet professional look. And if you want something glitzy that’s still sophisticated, then the So Fabulous Foil T-shirt in a muted gold colour is the perfect solution. As it’s slightly longer length, team it with printed leggings or pale blue jeans – it’ll skim your curves and look fab on a night out.

Prints were all over the spring summer 2012 catwalks, on everything from shoes to handbags to aquarium-printed dresses! They’re fun, bold, and great for summer, and we’ve got some perfect prints in the So Fabulous range too.

So Fabulous Printed Cigarette Trousers

Animal prints have continued to flourish in popularity for a few seasons now, and they’re not likely to go out of fashion soon: invest in the So Fabulous Animal Print Illusion Dress that flaunts your curves and slims down hips and thighs thanks to the black panels either side of the funky central printed panel. If you’re looking for something a little more subtle, then the So Fabulous Waikiki Ultra Wide Fit Mary Jane Sandals have an on-trend snakeskin print that add a touch of glamour to any outfit – casual or not!

Aztec-inspired and tropical prints, bursting with colour, were also popular on the catwalks: our So Fabulous Aztec Split Sleeve Dress is the ideal way to wear this trend. Ticking all the style boxes, this cut-out sleeve detail dress has a loose fit with flattering vertical stripe pattern: keep accessories bold and monochrome, and let the dress do the talking! If you’re more of a trousers girl, then the So Fabulous Printed Cigarette Trousers with a fashionable tropical flower print are a must-have. Bright prints need little accessorising, so keep the rest of the outfit simple and pick up one or two of the print colours in your accessories.

With such a great range of on-trend, summery clothing available in our So Fabulous range, the only difficult decision you’ll have is deciding what to buy first!

Clarks Scent Bottle Strap Wedge Sandals in White Leather

Although it might not seem like it, we promise that the weather this summer is going to get better – especially if you’re jetting off to somewhere hot and sunny for your holidays in July or August! Getting your summer wardrobe together is always great fun, and this year we’re particularly excited about the gorgeous prints and bold colours that have been covering the catwalks: whether you prefer sorbet shades or tropical flowers, we’ve got everything you need for a pretty summer wardrobe.

Choosing a comfortable, flattering and versatile pair of sandals is very important too; feet can get very hot and uncomfortable in warm weather, so a pair of sandals that will keep them cool and refreshed is essential. We’ve got a beautiful selection of sandals to suit all styles here at Littlewoods, whether that’s glittery flip flops, stylish and sleek platform sandals or the latest fashionista favourite, flatforms.

Dune Gilda Raffia Platform Wedges

Flatforms have been all the rage on the spring and summer catwalks and have been adopted by bloggers everywhere. Comfortable yet still with a good bit of height to them, they’re ideal for fitting in to your work wardrobe as well as a glamorous yet practical alternative to flat sandals. The South Klooga Ankle Tie Espadrilles are a pretty addition to your wardrobe: the classic woven raffia sole and ankle tie detail make them very feminine and perfect for your holiday.

The Clarks Scent Bottle Strap Wedge Sandals in White Leather are another one of our favourites, thanks to the graphic floral detail and chunky straps, and we also like the Dune Gilda Raffia Platform Wedges. These white patent leather and raffia flatform-style shoes would look great paired with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt: we love the sleek gold and white combination!

Coleen Phuket Embellished Toe Post Sandals

Gold and other metallic shades always look fantastic in summer, especially when paired with a glowing tan, so make sure your sandals are sparkling: the South Acapulco Leather Sandals in a pretty muted gold are sure to bring out the Grecian goddess in you.

For a simpler look, try the Carvela Kaspian Flat Sandals in a blush pink leather, where the classic shape lets the glittering diamante detail do all the talking. The Coleen Phuket Embellished Toe Post Sandals are also a great choice, as they can easily be dressed up or down and are available in black and silver or rich coral and gold.

Whatever your style, and whatever your favourite trend this season, we’ve got the perfect summer sandals to match. Make sure you have a look at the whole of our women’s sandals range, and check out our great new summer trends for women, like Flower Bomb and Shimmering Metallics!

Mens chinos have been a firm favourite in the menswear world for a long time, but have gained in popularity recently thanks to their appearance on the catwalks and across the blogosphere. Here at Littlewoods HQ, we love this versatile garment, especially with this season’s reinvention of the chino in a blaze of gorgeous colours.

Blue and green chinos are a great spring update

Colour-popping clothes are a must-have for Spring Summer 2012, even for the chaps, but there’s ways to wear this trend in a subtle and stylish way. Our collection of blue-hued chinos can be worn with a dark navy blazer or simple white tshirt for a clean yet fashionable look. Depending on how bright you like your look, the Goodsouls Mens Cinch Back Chino Trousers in bold airforce blue are a good choice, or go for something subtler with the Hilfiger Denim Sasha Mens Tapered Chinos in a teal shade or the Ted Baker Mens Classic Fit Chinos in a washed out sea-green.

Red chinos work well with neutrals

An alternative to these is to choose a pair of chinos with a red tone: these are a fantastic wardrobe staple for colour clashing but also work effectively with neutrals like grey, camel and white. Team the Selected Three Paris Mens Chinos with a pale grey shirt and dove grey suede loafers for a cool but professional work look, or wear the French Connection Mens Chinos in rusty orange with a colourful printed tee.

Classic chinos are given a twist with printed tees

However, if you prefer the classic beige chino style, then we recommend the Criminal Damage Roland Mens Chinos in a stone colour. These chinos work well with formal and casual wear, and are a guaranteed fashion staple: but that doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish. Update the classic chino with a t-shirt with an on-trend print. We love the Bench Mens Printed T-shirt with a graphic style print, and the Ted Baker Mens Graphic T-shirt with a vintage-styled French nautical print, both of which are perfect for summer.

Chinos are a summer staple, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring – make sure you check out the rest of our menswear trends here on Littlewoods!

Our winner was Shara, who had been nominated by her eldest daughter Rebekah and who won the brilliant prize of £1000 to spend at Littlewoods.com plus a photoshoot and makeover with Coleen Rooney’s stylist.

The photoshoot took place earlier this month, when Shara was brought over to Littlewoods HQ from home in Great Yarmouth with her younger daughter Olivia to enjoy a day of pampering and photos. Following a stint in the hair and make up chair, Shara went through the rails with Coleen’s stylist, Lorraine, and picked out a fab So Fabulous jumpsuit which Lorraine then dressed up and down with accessories to create two gorgeous outfits for day and night.

Our photographer got to work snapping Shara in her two new outfits, and was joined by Olivia for a few lovely Mum and Daughter shots, some of which you can see here in our little gallery from the day. Keep reading to find out exactly what Shara wore…

Being primped and preened in hair and make up

Getting a re-touch between shots

In outfit number 1

With daughter Olivia

Glammed up in outfit number 2

With Olivia in the dressed up outfit

In outfit 1, Shara chose the embellished shoulder So Fabulous jumpsuit and paired it with the light grey So Fabulous jersey tailored jacket, the super comfy South ballerina pumps and the raffia clutch shoulder bag. The navy polka dot scarf and mixed metallics double strand necklace added a final sophisticated touch to an ideal daytime chic outfit.

The jumpsuit was then updated for a night on the town with the stunning gold trophy jacket from South. This is one statement piece and can be used to glam up even the simplest of outfits, and the gold shade perfectly complimented Shara’s hair and skin tone. The multi tear drop necklace was used as a finishing touch for her evening look.

It was a great day and it was lovely to see our Mum of the Year all glammed up and looking fab. And once the shoot was over Shara and Olivia headed home armed with two fab new outfits and the thought of spending all of that prize money to look forward to!

]]> http://blog.littlewoods.com/2012/05/mum-of-the-year-2012/feed/ 0 http://blog.littlewoods.com/2012/05/fruity-and-fresh-with-littlewoods-fragrances/ http://blog.littlewoods.com/2012/05/fruity-and-fresh-with-littlewoods-fragrances/#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 12:36:05 +0000 Heather http://blog.littlewoods.com/?p=7149

DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom

As summer fast approaches (if the rain would kindly disappear!) and the excitement of summer holidays kicks in, you may be thinking of updating that signature scent for something more suited to the sun, sea and sand. Littlewoods has the perfect summer perfume range to help you choose the right one.

Whether your preferred fragrance is full or subtle, there is a huge range of summer scents on offer to help you move into the new season; we’ve chosen four new fragrances we think are a great match for your new summer wardrobe, combining floral, fruit and fresh elements for perfect evenings in the sun.

Issey Miyake Summer

If you love something strong and sweet then the DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossomed is sure to be the perfect perfume for you. This floral but fruity scent blends the irresistible smell of sparkling grapefruit with sweet apricots and jasmine to offer a feminine but intense fragrance. It’s great for pairing with a floral outfit, like a cute maxi dress and gladiator sandals.

Issey Miyake Summer, a more subtle and refreshing scent, is great for those of you who like something a little lighter sun-kissed days. With hints of mandarin and yuzu mixed with a base of amber, this summer fragrance offers an invigorating mix of citrus and woody extracts, providing a burst of summer energy! Team with a colour-popping outfit for a gorgeous visual and nasal treat.

Summer isn’t just a time of energy and excitement, but peace and natural beauty too: Elizabeth Arden Green Tea Cherry Blossom, a fresh and calming fragrance, could be the perfect choice for that serene holiday by the sea. With lemon and green tea vapour, this sensual scent is combined with woody extracts and provides a natural and subtly beautiful aroma. It’s a great choice for summer weddings: not too powerful and fits beautifully with neutral and monochrome trends.

Estee Lauder Beyond Paradise

If you’re dreaming of the Hawaiian tropics this coming season, Estee Lauder Beyond Paradise combines a perfect balance of tropical extracts and zest for a zingy, exciting scent. The floral but fruity fragrance combines Eden’s mist, orange flower, jabuticaba fruit and pink honeysuckle as just a few of the invigorating elements to give you a perfume that’ll whisk you away to a tropical island! Add it to a fruity tropical print and you’re onto a sartorial success.

Whatever your choice of summer fragrance, Littlewoods has a vast collection of women’s scents that are ideal for the new season. Fresh and floral scents are the perfect accessory for the hot weather, so if you’re looking to update that signature scent, take a look at what we have on offer.

Sabichi Best of British 5-piece Textile Set

If there’s one place to be this year, it’s got to be Britain! With the Queen’s Jubilee and the Olympics both taking place in 2012, the whole country is going to be in a party mood, celebrating everything that’s great about Britain. With St George’s Day just gone, what better week to look at vamping up your home (and wardrobe) with some fantastic British themed goodies?

Here at Littlewoods, we’ve just launched our Best of British collection: a bundle of beautiful homewares, cool clothes and fantastic accessories all celebrating British icons like the Union Jack, London buses and the Queen herself! We’ve also got a red, white and blue trend if you fancy getting really patriotic.

adidas Originals Mens Team GB Bag

One of the key designers in our Best of British collection is Graham & Brown, the iconic wallpaper and home furnishing design house. Their funky printed canvas wall art will brighten up any room and is sure to give you some patriotic spirit. The tongue-in-cheek Graham & Brown I Rule This House Canvas is ideal for your favourite matriarch – we think even Queenie herself might have one hung up in the Royal living room! The quirky Graham & Brown London Cartoon Canvas would be perfect for a child’s room, or maybe a creative office space. We also really like the Graham & Brown Stamps Canvas, which takes the classic stamp and reimagines it with a series of pretty floral prints.

South Bulldog Print Tee

If you’re looking to decorate other parts of your house, then the Sabichi Best of British 5-piece Textile Set is a beautiful addition to your kitchen. Comprising of an apron, oven gloves and a set of three patriotic tea towels, this red, white and blue set is a cheerful addition to any home. Or how about a patriotic yet practical gift? The cute London 2012 Union Jack Keyring and Pen Set makes a lovely present when combined with the girly Union Jack Journal and Address Book.

Finally, don’t forget to proudly display your patriotism this year with some gorgeous on-trend pieces that really are the best of British. The cute South Bulldog Print Tee, with Union Jack glitter print, can be dressed up or down: pair with skinny jeans and platforms for a great evening look. We also really like the adidas Originals Mens Team GB Bag in red, white and blue: roomy and comfortable, this makes a cool everyday bag for carting round your stuff. If you fancy showing your patriotism a little more subtly, then the Cath Kidston London Charm Bracelet is ideal. Featuring gorgeous enamelled charms, including a London bus, crown and Union Jack heart, this is a pretty way to be part of the best of British season!

Make sure you have a look at the rest of our Best of British collection, which includes great toys for the kids, men’s shorts, women’s t-shirts and even more homewares.

The Miami Short Day Dress, as worn here by Alexa, is one of the key looks from this collection and the flamingo print makes an appearance again as a top and as a more abstract printed t-shirt. The nude/pink colour palette makes it’s way through half of the collection, with a pretty on-trend ethnic print Etti maxi dress that would be perfect for holidays and a chic, go-with-everything shirt that would be perfect for pretty much any time of the year! We’ll be wearing ours for work with some blush pink jeans and embellished sandals.

The other half of the range is centred around a bold green palm leaf print, which is a subtle nod to the tropical print trend. The palm print mini dress is a simple, structured style with a nice bit of cut out and colour block detail at the back. It’s a real playful look that can be dressed up or down and the print is also used for a cute blouse. Paired with the canvas mini shorts and tan accessories, it’s a little bit retro but oh-so-stylish and spot on for summer. If only we were somewhere sunny and tropical like Alexa to show off our new look!

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In celebration of the launch of the new Vero Moda range we’re giving away two of our favourite pieces from the collection over the next couple of weeks on Twitter!

So follow us @littlewoods and retweet the Vero Moda competition message between 3pm today (1^st May) and 3pm on the 2^nd May for your chance to win the Miami print top in a Medium size.

Keep your eye out on Twitter for the chance to win one of these tops!

Then keep your eye out because we’ll be back with another Twitter giveaway next week for the chance to win the gorgeous Gina long sleeve blouse, again in a Medium size. The giveaways are open to UK residents only, and once the competitions have ended we’ll draw the winners at random and will get in touch on Twitter – good luck!

Ladybird Stripe and Shiffly Dress

The hotter weather than we’re sure is just around the corner – well, we hope at least – means that we all want a wardrobe revamp, including some cool new togs for the little ones. But summer means they’ll want to play outside, and even at parties, family get-togethers and formal events, their clothes have got to withstand rough and tumble, and still look great.

At Littlewoods, we pride ourselves on providing you with fantastic childrenswear that looks good, is easy to care for, and at an excellent price too. Summer clothes for the kids are no exception, and we’ve got a wonderful range of occasionwear for them that will keep them looking trendy while still giving them plenty of freedom.

Ladybird Boys Stripe Polo

For the girls, simple summer dresses offer lots of freedom while still look pretty and girly. The Ladybird Stripe and Shiffly Dress, that comes with matching knickers, features a cute broderie anglais bodice and mismatched prints for a practical but adorable outfit. We also really like the Ladybird Floral Dress, also with matching knickers, in a bold, slightly retro-inspired floral print of coral pink on yellow.

Older girls will like the Ladybird Candy Stripe Dress, a pinafore-style dress with bright, beautiful stripes in lilac, pink, mustard yellow and white: pair with tights and a t-shirt underneath and it’ll be good in autumn too. For a more casual look, the Ladybird Floral Maxi Dress has a similar bold design – this time a pretty floral – but the elasticated bodice and frilled skirt mean it’s suitable for more casual occasions.

Converse All Star Ox Toddler Trainers

For the boys, we’ve got a huge range of t-shirts, shirts and shorts for summer wear: pair a smart polo shirt or short-sleeved shirt with light blue jeans or chinos for a simple but trendy summer look. The Voi Jeans Short Sleeved Colour Block Polo Shirt is a fun take on the classic polo shirt, or try the Ladybird Boys Stripe Polo in a classic nautical theme of red, white and blue.

If your little lad is more into quirky and individual style, then we recommend the Ladybird Hawaiian Shirt, with a cool palm tree and retro surf print! Whether you team this with shorts or smart jeans he’s sure to be the coolest kid at the party. For smart but practical style and to finish any boy’s outfit perfectly, we love the Converse All Star Ox Toddler Trainers in classic navy blue.

Whatever the occasion this summer, make sure you check out Littlewoods for a huge range of girls and boys summer clothes!

South Crochet Linen Dress

Summer is only round the corner and we can’t wait to jet off on holiday, soak up the sun and relax by the sea. So to get you and the family ready for your well-deserved summer break, we’ve launched our Holiday Shop to give you some inspiration!

Printed Beach Cover Up by Coleen

With our stylish and affordable range of holiday wear for women, men and children, we’ve got the whole family covered. Whether you’re looking for the perfect beach look, practical tees for the kids, or a pair of summer shorts for your man, we’ve got all your holiday essentials in one place.

For the ladies, we’ve got a gorgeous range of swimsuits, bikinis and tankinis in our women’s swimwear collection to suit all shapes and sizes, and we’re currently offering 3 for 2 on all these essential summer items, so you can get your perfect holiday style for less! If you’re looking for that chic beach style, why not try our Printed Beach Cover-up by Coleen? To complete the look, pair it with these cute Phuket Embellished Toe Post Sandals and the beach is your cat walk.

Ladybird Tees

For a bright and summery look, we love this floaty and elegant South Contrast Belt Dress, perfect for an evening meal or a day out with the family. Stay stylish with our bold yet feminine South Crochet Linen Dress in yellow, teamed with this Straw Basket Bag, essential for the beach and great with a pair of strappy sandals for a cool chic day time look.

With a great range of kidswear, we’ve got plenty for your little ones too. For the girls, try our cute Ladybird Tees, which come in a handy 5 pack; adorable paired with our Ladybird Jersey Shorts. These practical shorts come in a 3 pack too so you can mix and match throughout your holiday. For the boys we’ve got a wide selection of cool and colourful tees, full of character to match their own attitudes and styles, and a range of casual shorts, so they’re always ready for the beach. Look out for the multi-buy sign on many boys’ t-shirts to save even more on your purchases.

Of course, we haven’t forgotten about the guys. We’ve got a great selection of menswear, ranging from men’s shirts and tops to shorts and swimwear, so we really have got the full family covered. Now all you have to remember is your passport!

adidas Verve T-Shirt

With the Olympics coming up this summer, getting fit and active is on the top of everyone’s list. It also means that designers are paying more and more attention to creating exciting, flattering, totally cool sportswear, so you can look great whatever exercise regime you choose! Here at Littlewoods we’ve got a great range of women’s sportswear, whether that’s t-shirts, running shorts or sports swimwear.

Whatever sport you’re into, there are two key items that will make your training easier and more comfortable – a good sports bra and a good pair of trainers. At Littlewoods, we’ve got a number of excellent underwear brands that produce supportive sports bras, like the Triumph Tri-Action Workout Sports Bra, and sports bra tops that offer a little more coverage – like the Shock Absorber Max Sports Bra Top. This specially-designed underwear will keep you supported and comfortable whether your workout is low or very high impact, and prevent you damaging your chest muscles during exercise.

adidas Cropped Workout Pants

Looking good during your workout this summer couldn’t be easier with some of the fantastic new products from your favourite sports brands. One of our all-time favourite sportswear brands, adidas, has created some gorgeous graffiti-inspired t-shirts featuring bold colours and oversized logos. The adidas Verve T-shirt features a pretty pink, blue, purple and gold graffiti logo that looks just as good during a workout as a casual day at home. The adidas Verve Vest comes in a grey marl and neon orange colourway and is perfect for those high intensity workouts as it will keep you nicely cool. Make sure you have the adidas 3S Essentials Hoody on hand for your warm-down session; this black and multi-coloured hoody is comfortable, cosy and still looks stylish.

adidas Stella McCartney 2012 Knit Shorts

For your bottom half, opt for a shorter pair of cropped jogging bottoms or shorts for exercising in hot weather to make sure you keep cool. The adidas Cropped Workout Pants with an elasticated waistband and drawstring cord ensure that they fit perfectly, whatever the workout, or try the adidas 3S Essentials Three Quarter Pants that have a slightly looser fit and are perfect for low-intensity training. If you’re into running or high impact sports, then a pair of comfortable shorts is an essential part of your sports wardrobe: the adidas Stella McCartney 2012 Knit Shorts in lemon yellow will brighten up any exercise regime! For a great pair of everyday shorts, then the Under Armour Shorts in black and pink are a must-have – at such a great price, who can resist?

Whatever your summer of sport is going to bring, make sure your wardrobe is up to date with the fabulous range of women’s sportswear right here at Littlewoods.