Love is in the Air and Weddings have finally been given the go-ahead again, although with much reduced guest numbers.

Since the Global Pandemic hit, social events have been few and far between and the excuse to get ‘dressed up’ has been almost nil. But as events start to open up, the prospect of putting on my glad-rags, getting the hair done and celebrating with friends and family really does appeal.

However, as a Plus Size Goddess, it can be a little tricky finding that extra special outfit for a magical day.

Whether as a Guest, Mother of the Bride or even an elegant Bride to Be, locating an outfit that is pretty, affordable and makes you feel special, can be a bit of a trial.

Now I am closer to 50 years of age than 40, I want to wear clothing that is beautiful, suitable for an occasion yet still flatters and fits like it is made for me.

Many Plus Size companies currently focus on a completely different demographic; under 30, fun, funky and fresh.

Whilst that kind of styling works for many (including myself given the right event) I want age/event appropriate clothing that isn’t going to need a second mortgage in order to purchase.

That is exactly where Taking Shape completely hits the spot.

Taking Shape is Taking Over

The brand offers classic clothing with a twist; an unusual hem, an ornate lace or a bold print that makes you feel fantastic

In short, beautiful designs in exceptional material that stand the test of time.

Established in 1985 in Melbourne, Australia, Taking Shape offer everything you could possibly need from the jewellery right down to the underwear.

Over the past 35 years plus, the brand has gone from strength to strength, opening over 149 stores in New Zealand and Australia before launching online in the UK in 2013.

Now I know that this post is focusing on event-wear, but that is not all Taking Shape offers. Comfy Casuals, Active Wear, Lingerie, and Bold Separates all feature in their arsenal of fabulous designs.

Bold, Innovative Designs

Another massive bonus with the Company is their mission to increase sustainability in their ranges, from products made of bamboo, to the use of organic and recyclable fabrics.

I love the fact that they care about the planet AND its customer base, after all the consumer is demanding this more and more every day.

There is one other factor that I really love about Taking Shape; the exclusivity of their patterns and prints. Simply put, you won’t find the same article being offered  by any other brand.

When a piece of clothing is designed, the pattern is unique and individual. Using texture, colours and exciting prints, the clothing is manufactured to the Company’s exact specifics.

Simple Philosophy

And this is what I find amazing.

Currently the size range on offer is from 12 – 24 and one of the biggest points that the Company focuses on is the consistency of the fit.

There is nothing worse than trying clothing on from different Brands and being a size 20 in one style, a 24 in another and even needing a size 28 in a third.

Knowing that you need exactly the same size, every time from Taking Shape takes the guesswork out of ordering clothing and repeatedly having to send things back due to a fitting issue.

So, what exactly did I choose to review?

My first choice was a stunning floral design, the Majestic Flora Dress, A stunning multicoloured floral dress, in a floaty chiffon.

A Quiet Moment

The hem is extremely unusual; firstly it has a crossover design at the front and secondly it is trimmed with a beautiful, wide, dusky rose ribbon. This ribbon gives some weight to the material which means that it hangs delightfully yet floats with the lightest of breezes.

Here Goes…

Moving onto the back, it is much longer in length, giving the dress an asymmetric design. In the past I have not been a massive fan of this kind of style as it is as common in Plus Size Fashion as handkerchief hems. However this is so very unusual that I was immediately drawn to it.

Matron of Honour?

The unusual features do not stop there. It has sleeves that I would describe as ‘angel sleeves’; unlined, floaty, full sleeves that drape beautifully over a wobbly underarm.

Blossoming!

The neck is a medium V-neck which flatters the décolletage and to top it all off, the back has some more of the dusky pink ribbon to tie at the nape of the neck.

Fantastic Florals

The design is exceptionally thought out. The fit is perfect and it dress hangs beautifully, yet is fluid and has movement to it.

A Mad Hatter

One of the best things about this dress is the multicolour, unique pattern. Due to the many colours in the flowers, you can accessorise it with numerous shades.

Pink and Purple Perfection

I decided to go with blush pink shoes, hat and floral accessories for one style and then completely changed it up with royal purple, all of which looked amazing.

Light as a Feather

I am wearing a size 24 in this dress and even being at the bigger end of a 24, it fits like a dream yet is not restrictive or tight. The material really moves and certainly would look good on the dancefloor!

A Cheeky Snapshot

Priced at just £99, this really is exceptional , given that the quality speaks of a much higher price point.

Lovely and Ladylike

My second outfit was a complete contrast; the Talia Black and Gold Lace Dress.

Glamorous Goddess

Now, there are some that say black clothing has no place at a Wedding. Whilst I agree in some cases, depending on how you accessorise makes a huge difference.

Black and Golden Wonder

The Talia dress has an old gold coloured layer which is covered by a fine black lace over-dress. The holes within the lace allow the deep gold to shine through and adds depth to the dress.

A Gorgeous Guest

Initially I decided to accessorise the dress with the obvious; gold shoes, bag, hair flowers and jewellery. In the event of an evening reception, I opted for black patent heels and a matching bag.

Bride or Groom?

The dress features a wrap style crossover front and an A-line skirt. The short sleeves are delicate and eyelash lace trims the sleeves, neckline and around the bottom of the dress hem.

Lovely and Lacey

Featuring a lower hem at the rear, this gives a style and elegance to the dress which works perfectly with a high heel. The dress has stretch to it, yet it doesn’t cling.

Catch!

The dress is simple and classic in design, yet it shows off all the curves and gives a sassy yet stylish look. Again I am wearing a size 24 and have to say I felt absolutely stunning in the dress; classy and elegant.

Fascinating Fascinator

The dress is priced at £99 and has multiple uses. Not only is it event worthy, it could be worn for a smart lunch, a business function or even a night at the theatre.

Worn Out…

My final wedding outfit was possibly my favourite. This time it was the  Embroidery Flower Dress; a black mesh dress that is absolutely covered in hot pink embroidered flowers with silver leaves and branches.

Pretty in Black and Pink

This dress really ticked all the boxes for me.

Marvellous Mother of the Bride?

It had a pattern that simply ‘popped’. The dress is heavily embroidered with a very precise and beautifully stitched design.

Surprise!

Featuring a simple black under-dress, the mesh over-dress is also black and the whole dress has a a fit and flare design.

Cute Co-Ordination

The dress has a straight hem, and the under-dress is just a simple tube design, which means the round neckline and elbow length sleeves are of just the embroidered mesh fabric.

Bold and Bright

Wearing a size 24, this absolutely confirms that their inclusive sizing actually works. Again it feels like the dress was made especially for me.

Pensive in Pink

I felt absolutely stunning in this dress and I chose to pair it with black and pink accessories, including a fascinator, shoes and corsage.

Helloooo

Priced at £115, this dress really stands out in the crowd. I personally think this would be the perfect outfit for a classy Mother of the Bride; add a huge picture hat and any Bride would be happy with Mum’s choice.

Perfect Patterns

The three dresses I chose to review were all beautiful, fitted like a dream and were priced exceptionally competitively for a plus size garment.

Taking Shape take great pride in producing quality, uniquely designed clothing that stands out from the crowd.

I certainly think they have achieved that aim here, after all, the three dresses were all completely different to each other, yet made this Plus Size Girl feel like an absolute Queen.

A Queen on a Throne

I might be biased, but I think I looked like one too…

Till next time,

SPSG xxx

****Whilst the items in this review were gifted, all opinions, words and styling is purely my own****