Weesha's World

Colours in the Sky

2012-01-28T01:50:00.001+04:00

Peacocks jacket, River Island dress, Aldo shoes.

Yay for updating more often! *pats self on the back*

Also, I don’t know how true it is but I’d like to thank Google for the compliment!

I should’ve ironed this dress but oh well. I like that after these pictures, I threw off my heels and got into comfy flats but the outfit still looked pretty cool (in my opinion). I don’t think we’re ever going to get sick of maxis, they’re so comfortable and easy to dress. P.S I couldn’t have worn this dress without spanx!

We’re trying our hands at kayaking tomorrow so I’m going to get an early night. I hope you have a great Saturday!

Love.

Baby, it’s cold outside

2012-01-23T16:04:00.001+04:00

Everything from New Look except River Island bag

It is so cold in Dubai!! and I know you’ll probably scoff at our 14 degrees but this is Dubai, we’re used to heat! Our winters are usually like 22 degrees and that’s much easier to live with.

I’ve been very lazy about dressing up lately (I blame the cold) and this is what I’ve looked like 80% of the time:

leggings, sweaters or the boy’s jacket and flip flops.

Do I score points for blingy nails at least?

And the sad part is that I have done heaps of shopping because of the Dubai Shopping Festival, but I’ve kind of lost my style mojo. Hopefully, I’ll get to show you all my lovely new outfits soon and hopefully this weather will ease up (did you hear it snowed in Qatar for the first time ever?!)

While you’re here, I would really appreciate some advice on styling these. Quite clueless about what to wear them with, how would you wear these zebra print wedge booties?

Hope everything is good with you :)

Hugs,

Golden Globes 2012- Style Inspiration

2012-01-16T21:01:00.001+04:00

I don’t usually blog about these things but I was gushing over so many of my favourite stars this year, I just had to put it out somewhere. Talking about Golden Globe fashion with the bf just isn’t as satisfying, his eyes always go straight to the boobs anyway.

First of, Helen Mirren. This woman makes me feel things I didn’t know I could feel- a) I want to be her b) I might want to be with her and c) I want to stare at her all day and glow in her perfection.

Not a lot of women can do that to me.

This kind of brought back nightmares of the ‘frocks’ my mom stuffed me into as a kid, but I like that she looks like a perfect combination of cute and beautiful girl instead of ‘I’m a kid who wants to look grown up and sexy’. I might be partial because I love Alex.

Oh ok Haley, I love you too. It’s hard not to with all this beautiful lace and you handled the zipper malfunction like a pro.

Luke is still my favourite Dunphy kid though.

Octavia Spencer is definitely my plus size favourite from last night, I think her dress and make up were soft, elegant and pretty, that dress was definitely made for curves. I’ve added this Tadashi Shoji dress to my Wedding Dress inspiration folder, thanks.

Julie Bowen in vintage Reem Acra: Added this to Number 1/ Omg Perfection/ ‘People might die from the beauty of this dress’ tags in my wedding dress folder. Enough said.

More Reem Acra perfection!

Jessica Alba was gorgeous in Gucci. Just stunning!

Emma Stone in Lanvin: Who knew an eagle belt could be so chic?

I know a lot of experts are slamming Michelle Williams but the more I look at it, the more I like this. It’s not high glamour or super sexy but it’s cute and beautiful. Just like her! Plus. I’ve zoomed in enough to appreciate the Jason Wu dress. I’m still putting this in my win column because it’s nice to be different from everyone else, ( it has nothing to do with me tearing up during her speech).

I know this year was all about nudes and blush tones but I love bright colours. I love it when someone takes risks with colour and yellow is my favourite colour. Easiest win ever! Paula Patton is all kinds of beautiful and sunshine in this Monique Lhuillier gown.

Reese is so effortless in this Zac Posen gown, I almost want to hate her.

Stunning Prada gown with cute tuxedo nails? Marry me Zooey!

More plus size perfection. Amber Riley looks sexy as hell!

Hello Tilda Swinton, I love your hair. You might not be the conventionally hottest belle at the ball but you are always YOU, no matter what. That is pretty awesome, especially in Hollywood. Keep being crazy talented, smart and amazing in hopes of creating a new breed of young Hollywood.

Salma Hayek was smoking hot, thankfully. I saw a couple of outfits from the Puss in Boots premiers last year and was hoping it was just a phase. You know this Gucci Premiere gown is made to flaunt curves, I would love to see this on a plus size fashionista, I really think the result would be just as stunning.

In my opinion, Charlize Theron was the best dressed. Some might say her face is a little too mature for this Dior feminine princess like creation but why not? Half the battle is rocking a gown effortlessly and she nails it to dreamy perfection. Soft, pretty, sexy and beautiful <3

Jessica Biel’s Elie Saab Couture dress was my all time favourite dress. I could write poems dedicated to the perfection and beauty that is this dress. Definitely one for the wedding dress inspiration folder!

I was not so impressed with these ladies. I love them and was looking forward to seeing them in something stunning. Booo.

At this risk of exposing how paranoid/ crazy I really am- this pattern reminded of the The Grudge girl ghost’s hair and suddenly this dress scares the crap out of me. Look closely.

Dear Connie Britton, I make the effort of religiously downloading torrents so I never miss your show, I even tell everyone I know about American Horror Story and share video clips of it on my facebook. I really wish you had put as much effort into your Golden Globes outfit.

Sorry, I’m not feeling Melissa McCarthy’s look. She is a beautiful woman but I think this Badgley Mischka dress ages her and makes her look so blah, lifeless, plain! She is a sexy lady with heaps of personality and this dress just doesn’t do her any justice.

Aaah! It feels so good to get that out of my system. So what do you think? Who was your favourite and your least favourite? We need to dish about the men as well, I mean, Adam Levine all dressed up? Come ON <3

Being the Fat daughter.

2012-01-08T03:38:00.001+04:00

This is going to be a long post. But if you struggle with being the fat daughter, the fat sister or even the fat friend, you might want to read on or at least skim through, lol. I just want to tell you that there’s hope for us :)

I don’t think I have the best relationship with my parents and I mostly blame my inability to talk or confront people with my feelings. I know this now at 25 because I see how it affects my current relationships and how it ended previous relationships, all through out my life. I would always choose to ignore, or so I thought because honestly, I just bottled it up until I couldn’t take it anymore and walk away. Without explanations.

It’s not healthy but I’m working on it, promise.

I grew up with my size and weight always being a constant topic in our circle of family and friends. People were always talking about how ‘big’ I was and it wasn’t just me. My mom is fat and I’ve always heard my dad say things like, “look at your size!” or " you’re like a sumo wrestler”, etc. My dad prides himself on his appearance and his ability to stay thin and is definitely anti- fat.

I’ve heard them and many of their friends (and mine) talk about other people’s weight, calling plus size women at the beach “piglet” or making jokes about the size of a woman’s ass.

I’ve seen my mom try to justify her figure, “I’m not fat, I only have a tummy” and as puberty hit, I’ve seen her pass on this line to me, along with“You’re not fat, you’re just big” or “You’re tall so you don’t look fat”. Haha, it’s almost funny because she’d also say things like “people must think you eat so much”.

In short, I’ve grown up with fat= bad, ugly, to be made fun of and to make excuses for when picked on for it. I’ve always been subjected to fat hate from my parents, friends, etc knowingly or unknowingly.

And I’m grateful for it because it’s made me the self acceptance blogger I am today.

Now, I know my fear of bare arms is rooted to a nine year old me wearing a sleeveless pajama top and my dad saying I have such big arms, it looks so bad. I know I have my mom’s figure, especially our big tummies, and at twelve, she looked at me and said, “don’t you think you have a big stomach for some one your age? You should really do something about it”. She passed on her secret of wearing corsets to me when I was 13. Do you know, I wore a corset everyday to school, from the 8th grade onwards right until college and work.

There’s a long list of things which, as I grew older, I would think “what is wrong with my parents? You don’t do that to your kid” but now, NOW after one of the most epic moments in my life, I know it ultimately comes from a place of love and protection. They might not handle it in the best way but they were taught a different mentality about weight and thankfully, I am teaching myself to know better thanks to our incredible blog community.

As the date of my cousin’s wedding got closer, my parents put more and more pressure on me to lose weight. My dad even bought me a gym membership lol. It’s always been a topic but I inherited both their stubborn genes and they mostly give up on me listening to them. However, with the wedding announcement, it was an even bigger and more urgent deal for me to become thin and “look my best”. We’re part of a culture that is heavily influenced by What Will People Think.

I really wanted to be bridesmaid, it meant a lot to me but I was terrified of being the only fat bridesmaid and having to wear a strapless dress. I kept building myself up for it but having my parents encourage me not to do it because ‘it would look so odd’ and ‘you’re too fat for the dress’ was kind of the final straw. I just couldn’t do it. I wasn’t ready to risk becoming an emotional wreck and have all my insecurities come back just because of comments I expected other people to make on the FAT bridesmaid. I backed out thinking my parents would lay off the pressure and I would be able to look forward to the wedding and enjoy it without being overly stressed out. I backed out probably two weeks before the wedding even though my beautiful cousin was so supportive and encouraging after having explained my feelings to her.

See? Beautiful girls but I would have been so uncomfortable and awkward next to them because I am just not there yet. It’s sad but I let being fat deprive me of doing something so special to me and I missed out on being a part of my cousin’s biggest day.

My self esteem had hit rock bottom. I was consciously skipping meals and obsessing about the wedding, my weight and everything my parents said to me. I’m so sorry to say this, but I even had a relapse. I’m tearing up as I write this here because I am so ashamed to admit this- I started purging my meals. I am sorry, words can’t express the sadness and shame I felt at those moments, I am supposed to be Weesha of Weesha’s World, inspiring other women to love themselves but there I was on my bathroom floor, a hypocrite. I was miserable and back to feeling like my teenage self, crying on a bathroom floor, once again. I hope I don’t get corrected on this next line- I think I hid it well from everyone- the boy, my friends and even you. I don’t like sharing the true extent of my weight issues with the people in my real life because it’s all too easy to be branded as crazy and hear “yuck” in response. Not everyone gets it, maybe you are unlucky enough to.

After another visit where the topic revolved around my mom saying things like “look at what you were and what you’ve become” and “ You’re just too fat” and receiving phone calls from my dad just to talk about my weight because I’ve got so much weight to lose (just in time for the wedding of course), I had had it. I stopped visiting and calling them. When they called, I kept it to monosyllables or sometimes, I didn’t even answer the phone.

Bottled it up and walked away.

Finally, my mom had enough of the silent treatment and called me to let me know she was deeply hurt by my recent behavior. That was my breaking point, I was angry, hurt, at rock bottom and in tears ( I really hate that I cry when I’m angry, it makes it so much harder to not feel weak or get my point across) and I reminded her of every single incident or remark from her that has hurt me with regards to my weight, all their words and the relentless nagging and pressure. Why would I want to visit my parents if it just leaves me fake smiling until I’m driving back to my house in tears?

I told her about Weesha’s World and that while I get messages from strangers across the world on a daily basis, telling me I’m beautiful and that I inspire them, none of that matters when your own parents don’t think you’re good enough, you’re ugly and don’t seem to believe in you.

I let it all out, the things I’ve been through, the issues I face, the things I’ve done to my body and how much I worked and currently work to move past all of it, to try my best to love myself. After initially denying words, to justifying them, and then tears with her bringing up ALL she’s done to raise me (lord, every confrontation with my mother results in a long list of sacrifices and no. of hours in labour) I calmed down and explained that this wasn’t me saying she does not love me. I explained that it is hard enough being fat, I’m reminded of it everyday when I’m in a mall, or look at family pictures, watch TV or even hang out with friends. But I need the two people, who I love the most in the world, to love and support me no matter what, if you’re concerned- don’t attack my looks or tell me what other people are saying about my weight. I explained my blog’s purpose, my purpose and how easily I can be destroyed with her unknowing remarks. I explained how I pride myself on being so much more than just fat or pretty but her words make it almost impossible for me to feel that way.

It was a really long conversation and this post feels too long already, so in short- we were both in tears and my mom apologized to me. All she said was, “I’m sorry LuAnne, I never meant to hurt you and I love you”.

I felt lighter after that conversation because I never ever thought I would have that conversation with my mom. Never. I always thought it would be too hard, too emotional and it would not change a thing.

My mom still talks about my weight, she still wanted to know if I ever heard of something miraculous called Spanx or if my doctor’s visit resulted in him giving me a miracle weight loss drug. But now, she attempts to carefully frame her sentences or hilariously tries to correct herself when she thinks she has said something harsh. But it is a lot less, we can even have a conversation now without ever mentioning my weight (it’s a Christmas miracle!).

I put up my brave face at the wedding even though I was always self conscious, I tried to focus on being who I wanted to be- Weesha. I wore my favourite outfits during the entire trip in India, I forced myself to pose for pictures and act like I wasn’t nervous about being the only fat one, I even stepped out of my comfort zone and wore a saree for one of the events. On the day of the wedding, I wore my amazing Monif C gown, I felt beautiful and I danced, laughed, posed for pictures and sometimes glanced wistfully at the bridesmaids.

Yep, that’s me in a saree!

Yes, I received a lot of compliments in my saree and gown, I suppose it helped my case that a random family friend told my folks they had a beautiful daughter who looked like Kate Winslet lol ( it was an open bar, y’all. I laughed my ass off when I heard the Kate Winslet line, especially when this same friend later told me I look like Cate Blanchett ). But during this time, my mom was on my side and we were cheering each other on (against my dad’s negative comments sometimes) and I felt proud of myself.

An uncle told me I’ve put on a lot of weight and I should go jogging or take walks, and usually I would let it hurt me and not respond. Instead, I said, “ my weight is none of your business, you’re bald but do I point it out and tell you to grow hair?”. He shut up and my mom giggled about the whole thing.

I haven’t been able to talk to my dad, I’m only just beginning to understand why he constantly picks on other people’s weight or why he makes fun of our weight in front of other people, it’s not bitchiness or spite like I thought it was. I really think it’s insecurity, maybe his slim figure and looks are what make him feel better or maybe he thinks it’s all he has from his youth? I love my dad but I don’t think we’re ready for an epic moment similar to what my mom and I shared. I love that I feel closer to my mom, our relationship is a little more open and understanding on both sides. .

I really hope my super long post makes you feel that maybe you too can have that talk with the people in your life. You’re going to have to use your own words, your own breaking point or your own moment of courage. And if you’ve already had this moment, please do tell. You can inspire me and others to have ‘The talk’ more often.

Maybe I shouldn’t care so much about my parents approval or support. Maybe I’ll never reach that point of complete confidence & self acceptance.

At the end of the day, especially since I’m an only child, I think people will be in and out of my life but nobody will love me as much as my parents and they’re an important part of my rollercoaster. I’m only just realizing that I can choose to make them a part of my ups or downs

I know how fragile I can be. And now you know that my confidence isn’t always genuine, but we all know I am never giving up.

Uncountable hugs filled with love and apologies for such a long post,

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T00:40:00.001+04:00

Monif C gown, Next shoes, New Look jewelry

I wish you a year of happiness, peace and love, and more importantly, self love. Stop waiting to lose weight to wear a dress that makes you feel beautiful, stop wasting your time on people who bring nothing but negative energy to your life. Choose to be happy in 2012, it won’t be easy but we have so much other stuff to bring us down, the least we should be able to do is depend on ourselves for happiness and strength

Happy New Year :)

Love,

P.S The gown was big for me so I used a brooch to pin it up in the front so I could still wear it to the wedding, that’s why it looks a little different from the original :) I got a lot of compliments and a lot of non plus size girls wanted to know where I bought my dress from. Love Love Love how glamorous I feel in it!

Where’s this rollercoaster taking us?

2011-12-18T03:13:00.001+04:00

New Look dress and necklace, Splash Cape coat and bag, Forever 21 shoes, H & M flower hair accessory

I have so much to say but the words won’t come. Are you one of those people who bottle up their feelings until they explode and all hell breaks lose? I am and my version of inflicted hell involves lots of vengeance and no forgiveness. I quietly fume, my head screams but my mouth just can’t seem to cooperate.

I need to teach myself to communicate better instead of always choosing to walk away, you can’t keep ending relationships with bitterness, right?

Oh well.

Thankfully, I’m getting a break as I’m heading to Mumbai tomorrow. I can’t wait to show you pictures, I love this city because of it’s fast pace and honestly, it scares me a little so I find it exploring quite exciting.

I will be spending it with lots of family though… at least I get to wear my Monif C dress, right?

The glass is half full Weesha, the glass is half full.

hugs and many thanks for putting up with my ramblings,

Winter Inspiration

2011-12-11T20:56:00.001+04:00

It’s finally winter in Dubai, yay! I have to admit, I struggle dressing up in winter because I have a limited wardrobe for this season- it barely lasts for 3 months so there’s not much of a point in stocking up.

Nevertheless, it always help to look up creative inspiration and these bloggers do winter style beautifully!

All photos link to their source. Enjoy!

Love,

In Lace and Love

2011-12-04T19:15:00.001+04:00

Lace dress from Peacocks, Shoes from Next

Thank you for all your support in the AMD Challenge, it’s all over now (phew!)

I’m counting down the days to our Mumbai trip, I backed out of being bridesmaid ( coward, I know) but at least I’m excited about the wedding now. It will just be nice to take a break from Dubai.

And there’s all the shopping I can do, of course :D

I hope you’re having a good day/ week. If you’re not, try to remind yourself that everything is temporary, even happiness, so just make the most of it.

Love and hugs,

Help Weesha Win!

2011-11-29T02:19:00.001+04:00

New Look pleated dress and leopard print shoes

*photography by Atif Balouch*

Just stopping by to let you know today is the last day to vote for me in the AMD Challenge, so pretty please vote for me! And it’s for a good cause too as AMD donates 1$ to Red Crescent for every vote I get!

Click here to vote for me and donate 1$ to Red Crescent charities.

Thanks in advance for all your support and best wishes :) Fingers crossed!

Being a woman worth her weight

2011-11-25T23:10:00.001+04:00

Top from Matalan, Skirt from New Look, Shoes from Next

In all honesty, we were only heading to mall for lunch and a movie ( Puss in Boots, which is as awesome as expected btw) but after tossing around a bunch of stuff from my wardrobe I ended up in this outfit and I really liked how girly and pretty it felt. This skirt was such a steal, it’s so dreamy and floaty! I hardly wear it because I’m so klutzy, I know ketchup stains are very likely to ruin it.

I received a brilliant comment on yesterday’s post, I HAD to share it with you:

“Be a woman worth her weight ;-): When you’re plus size woman, people like to say "yeah, she's cute in the face", as if being full figured is such a disgrace. Honey, I’m cute in the face, and I’m thick in the waist. I look good whether I’m in cotton, leather, or lace. I’m beautiful, vibrant and above all, smart! And there's more to me than my weight, I also have a heart. Yes my clothes maybe a bigger size, that just means you have access to a bigger prize. We all are not self-conscious about our weight, and we never have a problem getting a date. So don’t think your small frame gives you more pull, I’m a hot, sexy, curvy woman with a figure that's full.”

-Chae Barton

Seriously, it’s hard to stay down when you have amazing women backing you up.

Many, many hugs,

Thankful

2011-11-24T20:55:00.001+04:00

Our lives aren’t perfect, at least in our eyes they’re not. There’s always more to want, changes and improvements needed, a constant destination of climbing up and evolving.

I’m in my 20s and I keep wondering if we ever reach that point where we’re satisfied, or do we give up?

My life isn’t perfect, there’s a lot I wish I could change but I guess today of all days is a good time to be thankful for my life in all it’s imperfections and hurdles. At the end of it all, it is and will always be my life. My finger prints, my footsteps, my exhale, my tears and my laughter.

My crashes. I pick myself up and put up the façade of the confident, happy girl and pretend to move on.

Thank you for coming here to my world, even if you don’t comment, just the fact that someone thinks I’m worth some of their time, is good enough to pick me up when the people I love have knocked me down.

I’ll fight it, I promise. I just need to take it slowly and gather my own strength. It’s been an endless cycle of conversations and fights about being too fat and not being good enough or being an embarrassment. My parents words keep ringing in my head and I’m starting to believe them.

I just don’t want to deal with it anymore, I don’t want to write or talk about it, I don’t want to cry about it anymore.

I’m just going to be thankful for the people who do have faith in me and don’t consider my size or weight a measure of my worth.

I really wish taking a vacation of invisibility existed.

Love,

There will always be a sunset

2011-11-13T18:49:00.001+04:00

Dorothy Perkins top, redherring from Debenhams pleated midi skirt, New Look sequin ballet flats and purse.

We caught the sun just in time, I’m loving the golden tint it created :)

Since this is such a smiley, happy post, it’s only appropriate that I share happy news with you: You can spot me in this month’s Aquarius magazine in a very resourceful article about blogging. I was featured with other Dubai bloggers and had to go to a photo shoot to get my pic taken, etc. Super exciting stuff!

I’ve framed this above my work desk for motivation :)

You can read the online version of the article here.

And pretty please, if you haven’t voted for me yet in the AMD Challenge, please do! I would really appreciate it. You can click here to vote, it’ll only take a minute, I promise!

I hope you’re doing well and enjoying your Sunday.

Hugs,

Playing with Saturation

2011-11-09T20:42:00.001+04:00

New Look dress, clutch and shoes (diyed with pink spray paint)

I got a little preview of Next’s AW Collection at the Dubai Mall, I was surprised at how much I loved the shoes! Y’know me- total shoeaholic but they had some lovely pieces in their clothing line as well:

I hope my friends are reading this post, Christmas is just around the corner y’know haha.

P.S Voting is still on for the AMD Challenge, Please help me win!

I hope your week is going well <3

Hugs,

Shoe DIYs + Help Weesha Win!

2011-11-04T21:43:00.001+04:00

Pinterest and Tumblr have reawakened the DIY diva in me, but I am no expert and these were fairly easy to do! The nude coloured ones had scratches and teeth marks on the heel and base thanks to my monster cats. The black pair were on sale at New Look for like 40 Aed. So, I really had nothing to lose with at least trying to revamp them.

I’m now in Phase 2 of the world wide AMD Challenge, I have to get as many votes as possible to win and I am competing with contestants from all over the world.

I would really appreciate your support, plus AMD donates $1 to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies for every vote, so it’s for a good cause :D

You can vote for me here

Thank you so much for your support!

Fingers crossed and many hugs,

In my head, I think I’m a super star

2011-10-28T21:42:00.001+04:00

Wallis lace top, New Look skirt and shoes

I’m always flipping out when I see a non- skinny chick in a magazine, whether it’s a fashion segment or a reality story. It’s just nice to have a dose of realistic in between all those pages of models!

So you can imagine how thrilled I am to be one of those girls, yay for a plus size girl in a magazine!

I was featured in this month’s 1st anniversary issue of POSE magazine, thank you so much to Samantha from POSE and the team behind AMD. You’ve made this fashion blogger super happy, this is my first time in a magazine!

And a big thank you to you for voting for me in the AMD Challenge, I’m a lucky lucky girl!

Hugs and love,

“Realize that anyone who tries to put you down about your appearance is assuming that it is your job to please them visually. Once you realize that it isn’t your job to be visually pleasing to anyone, ever, it becomes very hard for anyone to make you feel bad about yourself.”

— Skeptifem (in this interview:http://teenskepchick.org/2011/07/14/teen-skepchick-interviews-skeptifem/ )

Would you dip dye?

2011-10-19T23:36:00.001+04:00

Or do you think it’s totally crazy?

I have to admit, I’m totally in love with this look! I don’t know if it’s my inner teenager screaming out for less boring hair or I’m just addicted to hair dye, but I’m sure I’m getting some kind of dye job done. I’m a sucker for anything that’s unconventional or curly hair really doesn’t let me experiment much with hair styles.

I’m leaning towards the blonde, purple and dark pink looks.

What do you think? Love it or won’t be caught dead with it?

A Simple White Dress & more!

2011-10-13T01:08:00.001+04:00

Peacocks dress, New Look shoes

There’s nothing to say about this dress really, it’s just a super simple little thing that’s perfect for throwing on in a hurry. The boy did my hair, bless his patience and dexterity haha.

I’ve just moved in to my very own apartment, for most people this is probably something ordinary but for me, I could only ever dream of having my own place. Indian girl, live with your folks until you’re married, blah blah. That’s the usual story but work is paying off well and I decided to make the change. It’s crazy because setting up house is so time consuming (and expensive!) and I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to my style, be it clothes or interiors.

Anyway, I can’t wait to show you pics :D

Until then, I recently got to be a part of a super fun photo shoot with the fabulous Tina from Tinayums. Check out some of the pics ( keep in mind please, I am absolute CRAP at posing!)

Fab bloggers Sarah and Chellibeans

You can read the interview here, you have to check out Tina’s blog- it’s one of the most happening blogs in Dubai :)

Enjoy your week, our weekend is here and I can’t wait to just sleeeeeeeeeeep!

Lots of hugs,

Wear it like a dream

2011-10-02T23:10:00.001+04:00

Wallis blouse, Jane Norman pleated maxi skirt, New Look shoes

I am absolutely in love with these 3 pieces, it was love at first sight with the skirt, I mean just look at that dreamy flow and those pleats, and the colour!

I wish the pictures showed it better, but apart from the gorgeous colour, the heels of these shoes are covered in gold glitter. Border line stripper/ 70s disco I know but I thought they were too fabulous to pass up.

P.S I will be contributing to Skorch Magazine along with some amazing plus size bloggers so make sure you like Skorch on facebook to check out the new issues!

Enjoy your week/ weekend!

hugs,

If your joy is derived from what society thinks of you, you’re always going to be disappointed.

- Madonna

Splash Autumn Winter Rock ‘N Fashion Show 2011

2011-09-24T18:44:00.001+04:00

New Look top, F21+ Skirt, ASOS studded boots, Shoe Mart clutch, Splash bangle

Thanks to my boo for donning a tie to be my adorable plus one <3 the show and after party were awesome, I got a second row seat which has never happened before lol and the after party had everything from queens, models, glitter guitars and pole dancers. Frikkin’ Fabulous!

I had a great weekend and I hope you do too <3

Lots of Love,

Pleats, bows and pockets

2011-09-19T23:07:00.001+04:00

Scarlet for Splash blouse, New Look skirt and shoes, Lifestyle necklace.

Erm, yeah. I can’t be bothered to iron most of the time. Anyway, I love the fact that it has pockets and a bow, so cute! I wish the length was longer though, this is definitely a skirt to avoid on a windy day. The top is what the boy called a grandmother blouse, I prefer the word classic, and I can’t wait to pair it with something deliciously vintage like flares or a pencil skirt.

I don’t know why, but I’m always surprised when skinny girls react to something on this blog. It makes think that my fat girl problems are actually every girl problems, especially with our moms. I’m really blown away by all the responses I got from my last post, while it’s nice to know I’m not alone, the fact that so any of us feel that way is kind of sad. Maybe we will know better than to repeat these mistakes with our kids. The world will have to come up with some new bullshit to bring future women down.

Keep staying strong and don’t let trivial stuff ruin your entire day :) Hugs,

“But there is suffering in life, and there are defeats. No one can avoid them. But it’s better to lose some of the battles in the struggles for your dreams than to be defeated without ever knowing what you’re fighting for.” — Paulo Coelho

If I had to leave you a letter..

2011-09-16T01:04:00.001+04:00

Dear world,

I’m so full of happiness for finally reaching a stage of self acceptance and love, after years of eating disorders, depression and self loathing. Why do you insist on knocking me down with every word, image, tv show and joke? Why do you treat me like I am alien, incapable of ever being loved or considered beautiful, sexy and amazing? Why do you hate and judge me so much when there are far more inexcusable things to hate in this world, like people who judge merely by appearances or people who have more value for money than life, people and ethics.

How does hating so much on fat people make the world a better place?

Dear mom,

You don’t know what it’s like to be me and I’ve accepted that you will never know. Why can’t you accept me as I am? does it really matter what everyone rates your daughter on a scale of prettiness? do you really think no man will love her just the way she is? Do I really have to be successful, smart, independent, happy and thin? “You’re pretty even though you’re fat” “I’m so happy for you, now you only have to lose weight” like my failure to be thin trumps my independence and career.

Dear friends,

I know I’m your friend but listening to you complain about your body or bitch about someone else’s affects me too. It’s contagious because while you’re bitching about how fat your thighs are or beaming with pride about your weight loss, I’m wondering what you think about me since I’m about ten times bigger than you.

If you choose to knock yourself down instead of fighting all these rules that society puts on women, don’t expect a self acceptance/ plus size blogger to support you or offer a shoulder to lean on. I’m sorry, it might be selfish but it’s too destructive for me to be a part of. I can be there for you when you realize you are SO much better than that!

Dear boyfriend,

I love you, you make me forget how shitty the world can be and some how manage to make me feel like a beautiful, sexy woman everyday, every minute. I wish there were more of you to negate all the ass holes a plus size, or a every girl for that matter, has cried over.

Dear Plus size girls,

Own it. You don’t need to explain your body to anyone, it’s YOUR body. I am constantly saying the words “Fuck People” in my head because it’s too hard to live everyday trying to live up to other people’s expectations. It’s too hard living with other people’s judgment. It’s too hard caring about what other people think because honestly, I doubt they think, I think they just act on what everyone else thinks and enjoy judging people (everyone does!) but at the end of the day, it’s your life. You will never be able to please everyone else so you might as well please yourself. Live your life as if it’s always going to be your last day, stand up for yourself and make an effort to love every curve, lump, pimple, etc. Your life will be better, I promise.

Dear bloggers,

Continue staying true to yourself because you are awesome. Blog from your heart, blog for the love of it, blog to over power the voices of biased fashion magazines, movies and tv shows, etc. Blog for those who are like you and need to know it’s fine not to be somebody else’s definition of perfect. Always keep blogging because you inspire your readers in a way you can’t imagine.

Dear Lu,

Work hard to focus on the positive, kick the negative out of your life. Live your life like it might end tomorrow, give your future kids something to be proud of. Try to make a difference some how and go beyond a self involved world, your problems suck less when you focus on others. Accept and move on, grow and change. There’s nothing you can do to change the past, work harder on the present and future. It’s ok to be proud of how far you’ve come :)

Love and hugs,

She lives, she breathes.

2011-09-11T02:31:00.001+04:00

New Look dress and shoes, Splash bag

I think I took a little vacation from blogging, mostly because real life was hectic and it still is but there’s only so long a girl can avoid her true love <3

I hope you’ve been well, I’ve got SO much to share with you but in due time. Most importantly, I’d like to thank you for voting for me in the AMD challenge! I WON!! *DANCE DANCE*

Seriously, I never expected that! so now I move on to the next phase of the competition and hopefully this time all of you can vote with out the country restriction thingy,

Thank you so much again :)

Part of my prize if to visit Austin, Texas for the City Limits music festival and hopefully that will happen if my visa gets sorted out.

Also, the amazing and super talented Rachel from VisualBasic featured me in her Blogger Sketch Sunday post- omg! Check them out here, her work is incredible and I am beyond honoured. Nobody’s ever drawn me before :D

It’s been a good 2 weeks for me even though I wasn’t blogging, I have more features to share hehe- Big hugs and thanks to Skorch magazine and Boat People Boutique for featuring me this month, I’m a lucky girl!

I’m not going to be such a slacker, promise. I've got lots of new clothes to show you :)

Have a fabulous weekend and take care of yourself,

How I wear a basic t-shirt

2011-08-25T03:36:00.001+04:00

New Look tshirt & shoes, Splash skirt, Forever 21 necklace

I’ve been stressing out so much lately because of apartment hunting and a bunch of other stuff, but I have faith that everything will work out the way they should. No point stressing about the unknown? Haha, i don’t know, some times I think I just make up stupid advice or quotes to make myself feel better.

I just want to say a big thanks to Kaya Skin Clinic for helping me de- stress recently, they offered me a session of a service called Aqua Radiance and it was perfect timing!

I was just looking to relax. I had no miraculous expectations for my skin, just pamper me and let me chill for a bit and we’re good, I usually get facials done at beauty salons like most Indians so I wasn’t expecting anything mind blowing. But they take skin very seriously so I had a skin consultation with a dermatologist who said I had good skin even with my occasional break outs (Yay!) and recommended ways to improve it

During the Aqua Radiance session, my skin therapist,Janice, explained all the steps of exfoliation, hydration and nourishment. It involves oxygen, water and vitamins, and let me tell you, it was so good I actually fell asleep mid treatment lol.

I woke up to glowing, CLEAN skin and I was so unbelievably relaxed. My skin was super soft like a baby's and of course I kept checking my reflection because I couldn’t get over how different my skin looked.

So, thanks Kaya! You guys have great timing and wonderful staff. It was just what I needed and I would recommend all my Dubai girlfriends to check out the Aqua Radiance service, talk about bliss.

I should treat myself to these things more often, especially since it looks like I’m going to be searching for a while. Phooey.

How is your day going?

A Simple Summer Dress

2011-08-14T12:23:00.001+04:00

Dress from Matalan, wedges from New Look, Bag from Aldo

This isn’t really a spectacular outfit, it’s so simple but I guess that’s why I like it.

I love the pretty crochet details around the neckline and the floaty sleeves, The dress is more of a cream shade in real life so it looks a bit vintage It’s just an effortless dress for summer :)

So, I have some news for you and a favour to ask for too. I’ve been selected to participate in this awesome competition hosted by AMD for a prize involving a trip to the States! They also gave me a brand new AMD APU based Vaio notebook, which my new kitteh Mara Jade had gladly obliged to look after when I’m not using it <3

I’ve been looking to upgrade my rusty old laptop for a while now because of all the photography and graphics designing work I do. So, needless to say, I love my AMD APU based notebook! And I’m not just saying that because of it’s handy compact size and pretty pink colour :)

So, who is AMD?

AMD designs microchips found in desktop and notebook PCs and popular game consoles like Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii. These microchips let you to watch a movie, video chat, etc

What is VISION Technology from AMD?
VISION Technology from AMD features the new A–Series APU for smooth, streaming movies in HD and and you can watch it in crystal-clear 1080p. It also lets you edit images and HD videos like a pro and enjoy gaming in Brilliant HD.

AMD E-Series processors are APUs which stands for Accelerated Processing Unit; the graphics processor and the CPU are on the same chip. A-Series APU-based notebooks feature multi-core CPU performance and up to 400 AMD Radeon™ graphic cores. It’s the perfect combination of beauty and brawn—delivering smooth HD video, powerful multitasking and energy efficiency.

Granted that I’m no geek but the boy, who runs Nerdyface.com is the ultimate geek, and was pretty impressed (and jealous hehe) about my shiny new AMP APU based notebook. The only thing stopping him from stealing it off me is the fact that it’s pink so good call on that AMD, lol.

Here’s where I need your help: The contest requires all contestants to acquire as many votes as possible, so I would be grateful if you could click here to vote for me and answer the 3 super easy option based questions. Pretty Please! If I win, I stand the chance to visit the US and maybe even win a cash prize, how amazing would that be??

Thank you so much in advance and feel free to help me win by spreading the word with your readers, fans, followers, etc. I really hope I get to win! *fingers crossed*

Lots of love and hugs,

Nothing’s ever fair in love and war

2011-08-07T02:18:00.001+04:00

Forever 21+ skirt, Deira souq’s top, ASOS shoes.

I’m guessing you can tell from these pictures that I love this skirt :) The only con is that it sheds, so if you happen to come across a few thin, black strips of fabric, Weesha was there!

My love life is still absolute crap, today he claimed that I’m just obsessed with finding Mr Perfect which makes no sense because if that was true, I wouldn’t have dated him for more than a year. I’m sorry but what next? If a dude cheats on me, I’m supposed to forgive him because I shouldn’t hold on to Mr Perfect?

Mr Perfect isn’t this flawless prince who we dream of. He is a man who makes us happy (for most of the time, anyway), he makes us feel blessed to have him in our lives even with his flaws. He accepts us for who we are and never ever dreams of causing us any unhappiness. You think your relationship will last because he shows just as much commitment, hard work, respect and love as you do. That’s not a fairy tale dream, that’s wanting to be with someone who is good to you, worthy of you and brings joy to your life. Because if it’s not that then why the hell even bother? Life is tough enough without being dragged down by someone else’s negative shit. I don’t need to be with someone, I choose to be with someone out of love, nothing else.

I am a warrior and I’ll bounce back. I have an amazing family and wonderful friends, I don’t need to waste my time on anyone who keeps enforcing negativity on me or doesn’t realise my true worth. Screw that.

Ok, ok back to happy things- This skirt! *cue shimmying*

Lots of love,

Love is a striking example of how little reality means to us.

2011-07-28T18:20:00.001+04:00

Dress from Style369.com, earrings from Aldo, shoes from Steve Madden, Assorted bracelets from India & Syria

This is the first item from Style369.com and if everything else they sell is as comfortable and tailor made for curves as this dress, then I am totally sold. They were nice enough to send me this lovely dress for a review so here goes:

I fell in love with the print, the 70s boho vibe and the non- frumpy sleeves. I don’t wear sleeveless yet so I’ve noticed that the wrong ones can sometimes make a dress look like a night gown, y’know.

Anyway, the stretchy, light fabric means it fits like a dream and has been worn several times for summer comfort. I got loads of compliments too :D The only negatives for me were the length, I’m 5’7 and it doesn’t cover my ankles. I would’ve liked it to be longer. And the neckline can show a little too much cleavage if you’re not ok with that. I’m ok with that at a party or something, not in a mall or visiting my parents so I used a safety pin to fix that. Easy stuff.

Seriously, I love how it fits me. I love the flowy sleeves and the print. It’s a lovely dress <3 Gotta shop more from Style369.com!

I’m a lot better than I was a week ago, I’m staying strong, being patient and giving second chances although all this is covered with low expectations and pessimism. You can’t really blame me though, at this stage it’s important for me to look after myself as nobody else seems to care enough.

A wise person once told me to always look out for myself because nobody else will, and this holds so true. I consider myself a feminist yet I’m surprised by how much I want someone to take care of me, occasionally spoil me and treat me like I’m something special. I like being dependant and taken care of by him.

Do you think that’s a brainwashed idea of love that we’re fed, or do you think it’s normal to want to be somebody’s queen? I’ve been focusing so much on being self reliant and strong even though I know I’ll give it up in an instant to be a princess lol.

Just something I’ve been thinking about lately.

Hoping to have a good weekend, I hope you do too :)

It’s Shoe Orgasm time!

2011-07-25T20:38:00.001+04:00

You know I’m guilty of a shoe addiction. You know you’re just as guilty too! But honestly, look at these babies, who can blame us? Check out some of Kurt Geiger’s AW’11 Collection, I warn you- results include speechlessness, the urge to lick your screen and a compulsive urge to visit your nearest Kurt Geiger store. These shoes are ridiculously hot and I want them all!

What do you think? Are you lusting over these as much as me?

It’s a bad day, not a bad life.

2011-07-20T16:00:00.001+04:00

Peacocks blouse and purse, New Look skirt, necklace and shoes.

It’s been more than two weeks since I last blogged and it’s kind of crazy how much has happened over that period of time. Let’s just say that I’m in a better place now than I was in the past few weeks. Relationships are just so difficult sometimes, I’m often torn between the choice to love myself more and spare myself of sadness, anger, heart break and disappointment, or pick myself up again, take another chance, choose to believe in love and find some hope somewhere, even when it feels non-existent.

I actually end up googling advice for interracial relationships haha but I know that any relationship requires effort from both sides. It survives on the ability to trust and depend on each against all odds. Maybe I’m just in a relationship with the wrong person.

I really don’t know where all of this is going to lead us, but I know I have amazingly supportive friends to back me up, wipe away my tears and remind me of how strong I can be. I just want happiness at the end of it, nothing else is as important.

I think in some cases, you lose some to win some. While my love life seems to be falling downhill, my career has come to an unbelievable phase. I got the job :) I am now a fashion blogger and copywriter at Splash. I’m still pinching myself with disbelief because this is something I’ve dreamed of for so long, I honestly never thought it would happen. It feels beyond amazing and it just validates the fact that if you go after your dream and work hard enough, it will come to you. It validates the fact that bloggers, blogging, normal people like you and me, matter. Just the thought that I’m writing about fashion for a living now makes me a little giddy <3

I’m learning to be independent again, so until I find a tripod or a friend who’s free to take pictures, I might not blog as often as I used to. But stay with me, my blog is one of the best things in my life and I’m never giving up on it.

Lots of love and hugs,

Take a Bow

2011-07-03T23:40:00.001+04:00

Forever21+ dress, Forever21 clogs, New Look headband, Also bag

I have been so anti wearing black lately but come on, isn’t this dress cute? And I love how easy it is to wear! All you need are a few accessories and some cute lipstick! I like the material, it’s good for summer and I have a stupid little secret for you- I can wear ruffle sleeves like these but I’m STILL TOO CHICKEN TO GO FULL ON SLEEVELESS. Sigh* I tell myself, “ Luanne, (I don’t call myself Weesha hehe) you wear bikinis to the beach yet you continue to deprive yourself of strappy summer dresses?”

I don’t know what it is but I’m consoling myself with the fact that even wearing a dress like this is progress for me. It helps that I think the dress is so cute I couldn’t not get it just because of a stupid insecurity. While editing these pictures, I only just noticed that I have stretch marks on my arms but whatever, everyone has stretch marks.

I have a second interview tomorrow for this job I’ve been after for a while. Fingers crossed for me please, and if you’re hoping and dreaming of something too, I’m keeping my fingers crossed and praying for you too <3

Lots of love and positive thoughts your way,

Ruby red hearts & lace

2011-06-27T23:10:00.001+04:00

Dress from wholesaledress.net, Belt from Blanco, Aldo Bag, New Look Shoes

I know this isn’t very dressy, it’s a simple look and I thought “nah, I need to accessorize more” but then that wouldn’t be my style. I’m not so into jewellery or accessories anymore, less just feels better to me and this dress- with it’s little hearts and lacy lining is very baby doll. Although they’re cute elements, I like that it looks a bit grown up here, I can’t pull of the cutesy girly looks haha.

The lining on this sucks btw, it makes it very hard to wear in Dubai summers but it’s cool if you’re not going to be out doors (smiling and posing for pictures for example!)

I’m having a great week so far with morning swims and regular work outs. Plus, I came home to see this on my wall over the weekend:

To get any form of praise or support from some one who you admire and look up to so much is just crazy. And yes, I’ve saved a screen shot of it because if someone like Fluvia Lacerda thinks I’m cool, well then screw everyone else haha- I’m cool.

Seriously, I can’t even tell you how awesome her words make me feel. It’s just wow!

I wish you awesomeness for the rest of your week! Although things might take time to happen, there’s a lot to be said for patience, hope and persistence. And at the end of the day, you’re better off counting your blessings and wins, and learning from your losses before you move on.

Hugs and lots of Love,

Fat Dialogue [In Love] by Danielle

2011-06-23T22:40:00.003+04:00

Immediately after taking our shoes off in the doorway, Gerry's hand softly grabbed onto my roll of stomach fat that hangs over my jeans. I guess you can call it a muffin top if you're trying to be cute. Rather than clenching my stomach and turning away, I stepped into it.

I like when you touch my fat parts.

Good, because I like touching them.

I like touching yours, too.

Despite the elementary language and the inherit triviality, it was a moment that stuck with me. Sometimes I question what I want this blog to be--- is it outfit posts, my life, my love? Yes, yes, and yes. But I also want to make my small contribution to the community in normalizing fat bodies in love.

I spent so many years questioning what worth my body would have to anyone else. This insecurity was most strongly present throughout middle and high school (I really identify with the part in The Fat Body (In)visible where Jessica talks about being a class clown because she wasn't allowed to be an object of desire). Because of years of insecurity, I found it hard to accept my body once it did become desirable to some. I remember being terrified to take my shirt off with the lights on in front of a man; not because I didn't want him to see my breasts, but because I did not want him to see my stretch marks. I contribute these feelings both to the newness of the situation, but also to the emotionally-vapid interactions I was having. For awhile I was convinced I would never have an intellectual, emotional and sexual relationship with the same man. But I do now.

I met Gerry at a time when I had been feeling awesome about my body for about 4 months, and I have been feeling awesome about it ever since. I feel like there is this widely held notion that fat people "deal with", "settle" or love each other "in spite of" each other's bodies. On the other side of the coin, there are those who think fat must be associated with fetish. It's bullshit.

I love and appreciate my partner's thick, meaty thighs, his big hands and his hairy, big belly. I won't speak on his behalf other than to say he gives me endless praise about the feel and shape of my body. We never make love with the lights off. We are extremely attracted to each other; clothes on or off. We do not spend time discussing ways to make our bodies smaller, although we do sometimes discuss ways we could make them healthier. Our fat dialogue involves appreciation for the bodies that carry the people we love.

To see more fat bodies in love, visit: The Museum of Fat Love

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This was a Guest Post by Danielle from Mitten Paws. She also does lovely outfit posts, so check her blog out!

I think what I love most about this post is that a) we can relate to it and b) it’s the kind of relationship we can aspire to as opposed to feeling lucky to get a guy who loves us even though we’re fat. I read this and I want her relationship, it made me think about how I used devalue myself because I was fat. We all think about who the hotter one is in the relationship, at least I do and honestly, there are times where I felt I wasn’t worthy of a relationship or even thought “how on earth would he love me with all my scars, stretch marks and fat?”. But reading this just validates the fact that a true relationship, true love is beyond that. Anything less would just not be good enough.

Thank you so much Danielle :)

So what do you guys think? Did you have a light bulb moment reading this (like me) or are you already blessed to have something this beautiful?

Hugs, hugs and more hugs!

Everybody has a beach body.

2011-06-20T00:41:00.001+04:00

Truth: I am at my heaviest weight right now. I’ve even signed up for a gym membership because I’ve started to worry about my health. I need to start being more active because in all honesty, I am not a healthy person. Eight hours a day in the same seat at work has turned me into a very inactive person.

But it’s never too late to improve your life :)

However, this does not mean I will hate my body in anyway. No matter how many people talk to me about how concerned they are, no matter how many magazine head lines shout “ Get that beach body today!” or “Lose 10 kgs now!”, no matter how many plus size actresses magically shrink to half their size and claim a new found happiness, I will not compare my body to anyone else’s. I will not buy into the bullshit that everyone should look a particular way to be allowed a fun day at the beach or a club or anything in life. After many years of struggles, I am finally at a stage where I am comfortable with my body and nothing is going to steal that away from me. I’ve worked too hard for it.

And I’m super excited at the thought of working out (ok no, I hate treadmills!), swimming, trying out zumba, belly dancing and just feeling better about taking care of myself. That being said, I enjoyed a lovely day at the beach in my new BHS swimsuit. I was not the only fat girl and in a place like Dubai, you find women of various nationalities in different beach wear. It is awesome. It just goes to prove that everyone is entitled to a day at the beach no matter what she looks like or what she’s wearing. There are no rules, it’s just a beach and you’re supposed to be relaxing and focusing on your fun. Trust me, most people are too concerned about enjoying their time to care about what you’re wearing.

Have a great day!

The Tree Huggers Special

2011-06-13T23:44:00.001+04:00

ASOS Curve dress, New Look tube top, Accessorize sandals, bracelets from Syria

I had my proper Bollywood moment of posing next to a tree yesterday but you can’t blame me, isn’t it gorgeous? I don’t know what it is about old trees. With Dubai’s love for tearing down everything old, we hardly ever see any here but in India, they’re everywhere and I always wonder how many years, events and memories they have stayed constant through.

I am moving onto a new phase of my life in two days and I’m excited but nervous at the same time. Clueless about what the future has in store for me and in truth, a part of me loves an ambiguous life. This is starting to sound like I’m getting married or something similar but no, no, it’s just my last day of work. I don’t get called a Drama Queen for nothing lol. Anyway, fingers crossed :)

I just want to say that I know I might have offended some people with my last post, and I really did not mean to hurt anyone’s feelings. I was so fed of so much negativity and I’m not saying those people are bad, I think it’s more of them not being completely aware of the big picture their words have on people, myself included. And again, everyone is entitled to their own opinion but I consider it my responsibility as a blogger to try and counteract whatever negativity I come across, especially when it involves self love and body image.

Going back to the good stuff, I have AWESOME news to tell you ( it involves the next giveaway!) but I can’t tell you anything yet. Let’s just say I’m really pleased and it was worth the wait :)

Have a lovely day and remember, you’re beyond awesome. Don’t let some stupid magazine or ad campaign try to tell you other wise.

Lots of Love,

Haters don’t have to hate.

2011-06-08T16:52:00.001+04:00

Forever 21+ dress, Koton belt, Aldo bag, Accessorize sandals

Do you ever feel like you’re the only one battling this particular cause? Like, why doesn’t everyone else get it?

I usually feel like this about animal rights and judgment about people’s appearances. But at least we have PETA and other organizations, there’s still just a handful of people who realize that the constant bitching, not just about size but about things like choice in clothing, hair, even the size of a girls nose is NOT OKAY.

If you would never wear a particular type of clothing, good for you. Don’t wear it but don’t bitch about people who do.

It’s their choice, their comfort and their body. You’re not a style god and just because you’re a blogger or have been told you have good style, you are still not a Style God. You’re not that special, sorry.

If you think a girl wears too much make up, instead of the usual negative thought, how about thinking of a reason? What if she feels ugly and piles on the make up to feel better? or maybe she has a really bad scar on her face?

The only difference you make with your negative words is that you made her feel ugly with the make up on too.

If you think fat rolls, stretch marks, back acne, whatever, should be hidden, good for you. Hide yourself.

Not everyone agrees with you. Some people choose to embrace their bodies and wave the finger at everyone or everything that tells them not to.

Some people don’t think it’s such a big deal or just want to wear what they want or even have different levels of comfort. Some people realize that we are all human, even celebrities, and Photoshop and marketing campaigns are fuelled to make you feel ugly to spend money. Who are you to judge someone else against your level of comfort and insecurities?

Even when you talk about celebrities, yes they have a team to make them look good but when you’re commenting about that celeb’s weight gain or loss, funny nose, frizzy hair, etc you are commenting about women everywhere who share those attributes.

You, along with every other person in the world who chooses to bitch about that celebrity, are collectively bringing down women who are insecure and little girls who will grow up to be insecure.

I know that we’re not perfect and that some times it’s considered human nature but before you tweet or say that thought, think about the consequence it could have on some one who might not even be connected to you.

I’m no saint, I’ve made these mistakes too. Who hasn’t? I would look at a girl or celeb and say she’s too skinny, but who the hell am I to decide what is the appropriate size for her body? I would even think “at least I’m not as fat as her” or ask “Am I as chubby as her?” And I’m still training myself to just mind my own business and worry more about me being so judgmental instead of the ‘right’ size.

At some point, we really have to choose to evolve. It doesn’t become ok if everyone is doing it. Yes, we’re all entitled to our opinion but that entitlement also means respect for other’s entitled opinions and feelings too.

It’s easy to think you’re pretty or smart or popular or successful so why not join in the constant cycle of hate? Hell, you’re entitled to it. You work hard to look good or be successful. You’re better than that girl.

But have you ever thought about those standards you set for yourself and others? Especially as women, why is it ok to judge the next girl and why is it always a competition?

And if you’re a blogger, isn’t self expression the main aim here? So, if someone does an outfit post with flip flops, because you are entitled to an opinion and have 913947 followers on your fashion blog, you can criticize her choice of self expression/ outfit or style?

Sorry but your perfect hair, numerous followers or BMW doesn’t make you anything spectacular. You’re just human like the rest of us, there will always be someone prettier or more popular and there will always be constant ways to bring people down.

Would you rather help implement change in all the hate or help feed it? Choose to appreciate instead of depreciate. What might be trivial to you, could be a boulder to some one else.

End of Rant.

Plus size denim shorts FTW!

2011-06-02T18:27:00.001+04:00

New Look blouse, Forever 21+ denim shorts, Steve Madden shoes, Aldo bag, H & M necklace.

What’s summer without a pair of worn out denim shorts, right? I ordered these from Forever 21 and they’re perfect. I oversized a lot though so I needed a belt but other than that they’re super comfortable and have the perfect length.

The boy did the my hair :) hehe he’s going to hate me for telling you that!

It’s my weekend now so I’m off to redecorate, clean and relax. I might even catch the latest Kung Fu Panda!

I hope your weekend will be perfect too :)

Lots of love,

Some times we’re simple.

2011-05-29T15:54:00.001+04:00

Matalan dress, Aldo bag, Koton belt, Sandals from Deira Souq

I’ve stocked up on quite a few summer dresses, comfort is key of course so they have to go well with flats and heels. I’m leaning more toward sandals now because it’s hot and looking good while trying not to melt is hard enough without having the comfort of flats. Plus, they’re a good way to show off pretty pedicures :)

I love the bird print on this dress and would prefer it unbelted actually but that would be a little too plain for a blog post.

I’m also wearing MAC’s Russian Red which ended up being messy unlike my Sephora lipsticks. I mean, there was lipstick everywhere so I don’t think I’m going to wear it often. So confused and disappointed MAC!

I usually share a quote or picture towards the end but today I’m going to share what always makes me smile no matter how crappy my day has been:

Kittehs!

This gives you a good idea of how big they are now!

Yep, Ryder is one of those “draw me you like you draw those French girls” cats.

Seriously, these booboos (their pet name) are my babies.

I hope your weekend went/ is going well :)

Lots of hugs,

Colour me with Summer

2011-05-25T11:11:00.001+04:00

Matalan cardigan, Forever 21+ dress, Aldo bag, Dorothy Perkins shoes

I’m wearing this to work today and I think the colours are emotionally infectious? My mood or spirit is on a natural prozac and I’m sure it has to do with feeling so good in a rainbow of colours! I might get rid of every black clothing item I own haha.

Speaking of colours, I went make up shopping recently because I needed to switch to Dubai’s omg-I’m-melting-to-death Summer mode.

I’ve switched from MAC’s Studio fix to their Pro Longwear foundation and concealer, just a little bit of course because there’s nothing worse than that mask feeling during sticky summer. They’re amazing of course, they last the entire day and looks so good! I think the concealer on it’s own is just perfect, you can skip the foundation, it’s that good!

I also bought two fabulous lipsticks from Sephora and I love them so much that I’m going back to buy them in a coral and orange shade.

They’re very creamy, long lasting and some how make my lips look fuller. I’m loving matte lips right now, there’s something really soft and pretty about it.

I’m showing signs of turning into a full on make up junkie, no? Let’s hide all the credit cards and hope for the best :)

I hope your week is going well, mine is going super! They’ve found a replacement for me at work and lady luck has been very nice to me lately. I even got to go on the radio and talk about my blog thanks to the lovely Paulita (who is lovely on twitter btw, she always tweets random facts, tips and cute pics of her dog Doodles)

Being 25 is looking good so far :)

Stay fabulous,

Plus size fashion done right!

2011-05-22T13:30:00.001+04:00

ASOS Curve dress, New Look headband and shoes

When I say Plus size fashion done right, I don’t mean my styling capabilities, I’m talking about this lovely dress!

It makes me want to yell YES ASOS! because in my opinion, this has to be one of the best dresses made for curves.

I think every plus size fashionistas should have it in her wardrobe- it’s worth every penny.

The drape detail in the front is great if you’re a little self conscious about your tummy (which I am sometimes, sometimes I can’t be bothered). It hugs your body in all the right places and I love the colours and print. The material is comfortable even in Dubai’s icky summer, I never had to tug or pull anything and I just felt so glam and confidant.

I can’t rave enough about this dress and I’m sure you’ve read similar reviews by other bloggers :)

I sized up by the way because my size wasn’t available, so that might have something to do with the non- existent clinging issues.

In short, LOVE this dress!

Also, the City Chic give away is over and our lucky winner is the beautiful Tamara Rodgers:

“Why do I love this pic? It was taken a while after I shaved my head, so my hair was just starting to grow back. My hair was LOOOONG before this - I shaved it to support my sister-in-law, who was having chemo, and ended up losing her fight with cancer. That was tough ... but the unexpected benefit for me was that I discovered that underneath all that hair was someone who I quite liked, and who could smile at herself in the mirror! That rocks.” - Tamara Rodgers

Thank you for participating and I have another give away coming up soon :)

Bras for a Cause.

2011-05-19T15:29:00.001+04:00

Sheryl Crow

After her diagnosis in 2006, Sheryl Crow surrounded herself with positive, uplifting people.

“I think encouragement always goes a long way. It is so scary but having the positive support of loved ones is invaluable.”

Kylie Minogue

Doctors diagnosed Kylie Minogue in 2005. She had surgery to remove the lump, followed by chemotherapy.

“It’s amazing how many people are affected by cancer and it’s definitely something that stays with you and you have a lot to think about and your life changes.”

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon understands the reason many women avoid mammograms: The results could be terrifying.

“The only thing to really be afraid of is if you don’t go get your mammograms, because there’s some part of you that doesn’t want to know, and that’s the thing that’s going to trip you up. That’s the thing that could have a really bad endgame.”

Betsey Johnson

After her diagnosis in 2002, designer Betsey Johnson tried to deal with the realities of the disease matter-of-factly, instead of obsessively.

“I’m not the type of person who dwells too much on bad things. I guess the only thing I’ve done differently is loosened up the reigns on my company and now I’m enjoying life more.”

Christina Applegate

For actress Christina Applegate, there was only one effective way to deal with her fear over her cancer treatment:

Let it all out.

“Sometimes, you know, I cry and sometimes I scream. And I get really angry. And I get really upset, you, into wallowing in self-pity sometimes. And I think that’s all part of the healing.”

These women as well as every cancer victim in the world can’t be celebrated enough. They just add to the title of everyday warrior women and are proof that as warrior women, we need to take care of ourselves and we need to help other fellow warriors look out for themselves too.

It can be little things like liking a facebook page or sharing a youtube video or it can be major, like leading by example and getting a mammogram for yourself!

So, if you would like to help spread awareness about breast cancer, you can start right here and right now- Bras for a Cause Middle East is launching their Bra and T-shirt design contest today. It combines fashion, design and creativity with awareness, and I think it is a spectacular cause.

The contest is open to all fashion designers, illustrators, graphic designers, artists, students and anyone with amazing design talent and this Breast Cancer Campaign aims to get everyone involved while raising awareness and helping Breast Cancer survivors feel good about themselves.

You can learn more about the cause from their website www.fustany.com/brasforacause and don’t forget to like their facebook page too www.facebook.com/brasforacauseme

(They’re also still looking for a few more bloggers from Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Syria and Jordan to be online ambassadors so drop them an email if you’re interested.)

And if you also want to lead by example, here’s a little information for you:

Doctors advise that women aged 35 and above or who have a history of breast cancer in their family should have a mammogram every year. Normally this check-up can cost between Dh400 and Dh750, depending on whether an ultrasound is also needed. With an ultrasound, the tests cost can rise to almost Dh1,000.

You can find a list of places that offer mammograms here.

Have a great weekend,

Yep, it’s summer alright.

2011-05-14T20:04:00.001+04:00

Dubai is back to it’s usual self- scorching sun, humidity and hot winds combined with freezing offices, malls and living rooms.

So how do we cope? We dress for comfort of course.

These pictures remind me of a about a year ago, I’d take a lot of pictures on the balcony or in my room because posing in public was just so awkward for me (it still is!)

Y’know I still have moments where I hesitate about showing my chubby arms. I think it’s more of yourself worrying about other people bitching about them but there will always be someone bitching about something because they’re those kind of people. Thankfully, I have more moments where I think “Forget it, be your own fabulous”.

I’ve never been into pants, especially during summer because of one specific reason- ventilation! See? skirt swishes and flies. Jeans/ pants cling. I have always found skirts more comfortable :)

I love these babies, just so bright and cheerful!

top (dress) from Wholesaledress.net, Skirt from Jeanswest, Shoes from New Look

I’ve had to extend my notice at work for 2 more weeks because they’re having trouble finding a replacement. It sucks because I’m just so tired- I’m dying for a break. But the positive side is I’ll earn a little more cash I suppose. Fingers crossed.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend, take some time out for you

P.S City Chic giveaway is still on! Just post a fave pic of yourself on Weesha’s World’s facebook page to go into the draw to win one item of your choice from citychiconine.com!

You will be missed Mia

2011-05-11T14:40:00.001+04:00

Just a glance at your facebook is enough proof that you were an inspiration to women of all ages and sizes. I wish there was a better way to pay tribute to you. But I guess the best way to do that is to continue carrying out your message.

Thank you for being such an amazing role model. Words really can’t express how much you will be missed.

If dresses had wings

2011-05-09T22:13:00.001+04:00

ASOS dress and shoes, Splash bangles

God bless ASOS for making me feel awesome! I wore this dress to the Snoop Dogg concert (which was awesome as expected) and it’s actually really good for Dubai summers. I like it’s abstract form and shape versus the typical dress, yknow?

The shoes are only worn for blog pictures because a) I can barely walk in them and b) My soul dies a little if they get a smudge of dirt on them. I will preserve them for life because I’m part psycho like that!

The City Chic giveaway is still going on so you can still post a favourite picture of yourself on my facebook page. Check out the entries so far, they’re so lovely!

Only 9 more days until I’m 25 years old and 23 more days until my last day at work! I could live without the whole turning 25 thing, pfft!

I hope you’re having a great day :)

Lots of Love,

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City Chic Giveaway!

2011-05-07T22:27:00.001+04:00

So, if you’re not into watching videos or just got bored :P Here’s the deal:

Who doesn’t love City Chic, right?

Well, upload a favourite picture of yourself on the Weesha’s World facebook page and tag yourself in it .

Tell me what’s your one favourite item from City Chic and your email address in the comments section below or on facebook.

And you could win one item of your choice from City Chic!

You score an additional bonus entry if you tweet about this giveaway (don’t forget to tag me in the tweet @weeshas_world so that I know!)

Simple, no?

This giveaway ends on the 18th of May and one random lucky winner will be selected. You have to be a follower of Weesha’s World on either Google Friend Connect, Twitter or Facebook.

I’m so excited to see your pictures! It could be any picture where you think you look fabulous, it’s not a fashion or beauty competition it’s about happy, smiley ladies :)

Best of luck!

Colour Blocking!

2011-05-01T23:39:00.001+04:00

I’ve quit my job! I’m so happy about it because it means I get a break, I get to refocus and think about what I really want to do because clearly I’m not meant for the corporate world. I miss not being able to blog as much, spend enough time with my family and friends, pursue my other dreams…such a long list!

I’ve always believed in the saying “ it’s my job, not my life” and I think it’s important to remember you only have one life and if you spend a majority of your day doing something that doesn’t make you happy..well what a waste of your life.

I have so many ideas and lists I don’t know where to start but fingers crossed for a new beginning. I’m excited, happy and starting to feel like the old me again :)

Do you work part time? or how do you manage your passions along with a full time job? Do you get to live out your passion everyday or do you feel like you’re stuck in an unhappy rut?

I could really use some advice here because I’ve got too much that I want to do but it’s mixed with uncertainty and fear of being selfish.

Fingers crossed for the best,

Repost: What I now know.

2011-04-24T18:49:00.002+04:00

I’m reposting this just because I remember writing this almost a year ago and it feels like I need to remind myself with my very own words.

In retrospect, I might have been too negative but nevertheless, you can think what you want to think to deal, to get by.

Thankfully, majority of the negative people who this post was about are no longer a part of my life :)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What I now know.

People suck.

I’m not 100% sure about evil existing, but I know that people choose to bitch to feel better about themselves.
People get jealous. People can be stupid and not always think. People make mistakes.

They can be so insecure, it makes them spiteful just to hide their vulnerability. They might not own themselves yet and choose to imitate everyone else in order to fit in, like sheep. Putting you down and seeing it take its effects on you makes them feel superior or better about themselves. They won’t always understand your braveness, your gift for being yourself, being different and happy.

People fear what is different and don’t always take the time to learn and understand this difference.

Sometimes, people are so messed up themselves, they’re clueless to the damage they’re inflicting on you.
A happy person would never want to inflict unhappiness in anyone's life.

So ignore people. This is your life and nobody has the right to take away your need to feel beautiful.

It doesn’t matter what you look like because people define beauty according to years of cultural brainwashing. There is no such thing as a “standard of beauty”. Maya Angelou, Beth Ditto, Tina Fey, Oprah Winfrey, Mother Theresa, Gabby Sidibe, Margaret Cho. Beautiful isn’t a good enough word to describe these women.

Being pretty is nowhere close to being beautiful. Why not aim higher?
Beauty is something that is pleasing to look at? Happy, smiley, good people are pleasing to look at.
You+ feeling beautiful= You being a beautiful person.

So dress up, dance, sing your heart out, dream, eat cookies, wear red lipstick, inspire, try sky diving or yellow shoes, achieve, jump around your room. get a puppy.

Do whatever it takes for you to be beautiful ♥

Blue Ruffles from ASOS

2011-04-17T17:46:00.001+04:00

Yay! I finally took a picture of this dress! I’ve worn it countless times because who can resist such cute ruffles?

I love the blue, the fit could be smaller/ tighter but I sized up so that’s my fault. This is probably my favourite buy from ASOS (as of now)! Did I mention that I love the blue??

Why is this dress suddenly reminding me of the bird Rio?

Ok, enough babbling. I have to tell you- I feel good today. It’s been ages since I dressed up and felt pretty and I should really do this more often- plus size fashion blogger win and high self esteem win!

Seriously, why was I giving up and focusing on feeling ugly so much? I can be such a loser sometimes.

It’s your weekend, no? I’m so jealous! my weekend flew by with drunken beach madness and a whole day for recovery. I hope yours is absolute perfection, you know you deserve that day of indulgence and relaxation :)

Love,

A little bargain shopping

2011-04-13T18:40:00.001+04:00

I know I suck, I am such a horrible blogger! My guilty conscience has coerced me into doing some kind of quick post because quite frankly, I have been my most unstylish yet this past week. Thankfully, I have not reached the point of sweatpants and crocs, but still, I really need to get my style mojo back *sigh.

I thought shopping would help but I couldn't find anything appealing or within my budget so I thought of giving whole-saledress.net a try.

I spent about 200 AED (55 USD) with shipping, I would’ve paid that amount for one dress from New Look or wherever. Bargain, right?

And no, I’m not beneath shopping here because I know Weesha has to pay rent and food bills so anyone who goes all “she shops here?” can either sponsor my wardrobe or suck it. Besides, their quality is surprisingly good.

You really have to search for the plus size stuff and it’s hard to picture them on you when their size 0 models are wearing them but at their prices, I can afford to take a few chances.

Here’s what I ended up with finally (after many hours of thought and zooming into the pictures)

I hope this bag is just as cute in person, it would look perfect against all the florals and colour blocking I plan to do.

I almost didn’t buy this because of her creepy smile. I preferred the navy version of this but I have too much navy and not enough red.

I love this top! So pretty and vintage looking and perfect for Dubai summers. Definitely my favourite!

I spent a lot of time oohing and aahing over this one. It’s sort of a midi tutu skirt and I’m more curious and challenged to style this skirt than in love with it. It should be an interesting experiment, no? I’m open to suggestions!

There you have it :) It’s not much but I’m excited enough about receiving my package, fingers crossed that everything fits!

Love and groveling for forgiveness for being so absent lately,

What makes me feel beautiful- Frances Joy

2011-04-06T12:53:00.001+04:00

My family.

The color green.

Time in the sun.

Dresses.

Dancing in my room, on the street, or on the dance floor.

Climbing fences in skirts and running in heels.

Playing with my sweet niece.

Recognizing the ways I look like my family - my grandmother's hair, my father's legs, my mother's nails...

When my puppy, Kiku, acts like I'm the greatest person in the world.

That look in my husband's eyes when he looks at me.

A day on the beach.

When I wake up with giant, curly hair.

Pencil skirts.

Washing my face at the end of the day.

Going back home to Puerto Rico.

Long, meaningful conversations with my favorite people.

Rocking my tattoo - and surprising people when they see it.

Learning.

Recognizing beauty in others.

Nights out with my husband.

Spending time with friends.

Traveling.

My cowboy boots.

Revealing my nerdiness.

Pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and making it through to the other side.

Teaching.

Rocking leopard print.

Eating a healthy meal and following it up with dessert.

Standing up for myself and others.

Heels.

Challenging stereotypes.

Loving and embracing my body.

Thank you Frances for this awesome list! I absolutely LOVE it!

Make sure you visit Frances at Mad Dress Game.

Love and Hugs,

Window Shopping at Style369.com

2011-03-31T12:25:00.001+04:00

I might be the last plus size girl to have heard of Style369 (where have I been? under a rock?!)

They have adorable collections from sizes 14 to 26 and I think they’re relatively wallet friendly.

I’ve got a few spring inspired pieces on my radar, hopefully I won’t buy them all though hehe.

Have you shopped from Style369 before? Are they good with shipping, quality, fit, customer service, etc?

Let me know, my wallet’s going to get some serious damage in the coming week!

Have a great weekend :)

Something New, Something Blue

2011-03-27T14:59:00.001+04:00

ASOS Jumpsuit (size18), New Look shoes and bag

If we’ve been together for a while, you might remember that I was a bridesmaid for my friend Romilla’s wedding a little over a year ago. Well, Romilla gave birth to Myron Leander Fernandes on the 23rd of March and I just had to share his pictures with you.

He is such a beautiful baby boy (and so tiny!!) and we’re all so happy he’s finally here.

We’ve been waiting for him for a while and I can’t wait to see what he grows up to be. He has awesome parents so I’m sure he’s going to be nothing short of a spectacular human being.

First time I’ve held a new born baby haha, it’s a little terrifying because they’re so tiny and fragile!

I hope you’re having a wonderful weekend or week, mine has had ups and downs but by far, my friends finally seeing their new baby in this world is the biggest ‘up’ ever. Screw everything else :)

Love and hugs,

What makes me feel beautiful- Maria

2011-03-20T12:29:00.001+04:00

While trying to figure out what makes me beautiful I started thinking that it has less to do with the way we look or dress and more with what we mean to others and what makes us happy. After going through major changes in my life last year, it was easy to get down on myself not feel beautiful, but I kept thinking I had a responsibility beyond myself. For me, what makes me feel beautiful is being able to make a difference, even if it is a small one.

As an animal lover, I have to say that I feel most beautiful when I'm running around with my dogs having a good time because no matter how tough my day may have been, their needs always come before mine.

I'm always as happy to see them as they are to see me because being around them makes me realize they love me unconditionally regardless of what I wear or the way I look like. They're able to see past all of that and simply love me for me, and that probably one of the best lessons I've ever learned from them.

I feel beautiful around them because I know I'm making a difference in their lives and because I get to be silly and completely uninhibited around them and I get to let my inner child play. And, really, what could be better than that?

Honestly, I have to 100% agree with Maria. People who don’t love animals just baffle me. They love you regardless of your clothes, looks, money, etc. Hugs and love seem to be more than enough to keep them happy, no complications, no judgement.

Thanks for being a part of this Maria :) You can get to know her better at Texas Love, Life and Fashion!

Weesha does a lohan.

2011-03-15T11:16:00.001+04:00

New Look top & leggings, Blanco boots, Koton bag, gorgeous ring from Anika!

This is an old outfit, before I got my tattoo done and yes I’m totally aware that I did a Lohan but hey I just like showing off the fact that I’m a fat girl in leggings ha. The audacity, I know.

A million hugs wouldn’t be enough thanks for your wonderful comments on my last post, seriously you are my prozac. Who cares about haters when I have such amazing support here, I’m so blessed.

I’ve been trying to catch up with everyone’s blogs lately which is hard since I have no internet at home :( So if I haven’t commented I’m not being rude I swear, just deprived of internet!

Here are a few of my fave links so far though:

Papu wrote a cool post on plus size plaid fashion

Charlie’s 5th edition of her Feminine Bravery feature is up and trust me, it is beyond moving and and inspiring. I got goose bumps reading her story.

It’s Jessica Kane’s birthday today! Yay!

Bekah’s blog is filled with beautiful pictures, I can’t help but smile every time I visit!

Cool stuff, no? Bloggers just keep getting better and better ;)

Hope you’re having a wonderful day!

Fat girl in a Tutu.

2011-03-09T09:44:00.001+04:00

Everything from New Look, Shoes are from ASOS.

Hello! I know it’s been a while but I’m hoping the fact that I wore a tutu in public just for this blog will make up for it haha. Do you like my new tattoo? It took 3 incredibly painful hours to do and I have to go through it again for retouching. I’m getting goose bumps just thinking about it :/

Now let me tell you about these shoes, oh honey these shoes!

They’re definitely the hottest thing I own right now and they’re not too uncomfortable just very high for someone as uncoordinated as me. But I LOVE them! Seriously, I could right paragraphs about my love for them but I’ll spare you :)

I hope you’ve been well? I really missed blogging but I just wasn’t up to it, I’m still struggling with a bunch of personal crap- relationships, career and body image stuff. My mom sent me some weight loss email story the other day and signed it off with “your concerned mother”. I really had no clue I was that morbidly obese, all this while I thought I was a happy, fat chick.

Anyway, I’m not going to bore you with details and be negative here. It’s ok to be who you are- fat, skinny, big nosed or flat- chested or whatever. Set your own rules of beauty instead of following the rules that everyone else has. Question everything, grow and fight. I’m not about to let someone else dictate my happiness for my life.

Love,

What makes me feel beautiful- Meg

2011-02-28T00:48:00.001+04:00

“Apart from wearing a nice dress that I feel comfortable in, there are some let’s say less traditional situations in my life that make me feel beautiful as well. These are the situations that aren’t usually considered situations that someone could feel beautiful in, but after thinking of it a bit they come to our minds as well. When I’m with my boyfriend, obviously. When I’m being creative or when I come up with a new idea. And also, when I’m planning something. Yeah, right, however boring planning might seem, I actually enjoy it. I see planning as an interlink between dreaming and realizing these dreams. I think planning could be considered a kind of an art.

Last year we (the boyfriend and I) spent two weeks in London, which is my favourite city of all. It was the first trip we ever did on our own and without a travel agency because we wanted to spend a longer time there than any agency offered – that means we had to plan it by ourselves. I was the planner in chief and although some people claim that planning their vacation is the most stressful activity of the year, I enjoyed every single second of it. I loved making the lists of places we would like to visit, finding information about them and then matching them in a way that would work; I loved searching for places to stay and sorting them according to the cost and location etc.. As I didn’t want it to be the traditional ‘sightseeing only’ trip I bought a couple of books with great tips on places that the usual tourist wouldn’t probably know (now I have a life-long collection of tips on where to go to in London :D). I even designed a little travel organizer. Yeah, basically I became a planning freak, but in the end we both enjoyed the trip to the fullest. And it felt damn good!"

Thank you so much Meg for your contribution. I think you have a natural talent for planning and also, the feeling of accomplishment is one of the best feelings in the world :)

Check out more of Meg’s charming looks or get advice on travelling in London (hehe!) at her blog Bargainista on a Hunt.

I hope you’re having a lovely, deliciously chilled out weekend

Better Late than Never

2011-02-23T23:42:00.001+04:00

New Look jacket and bag, Dorothy Perkins skirt, Blanco boots

I haven’t been my best lately, style and personality wise. Life just gets me down sometimes but the universe or God, whichever you choose to believe, picks you up sometimes too.

And honestly, relationship problems or self image issues are problems to be grateful for in comparison to the problems of people all over the world- freedom, natural disasters, violence, sickness, bills…it’s a long list.

So, I’m grateful. This blog is a cool thing I’ve got here, something I’m super proud of and I’m not going to just give up because my life isn’t perfect.

I’m also glad I have you for amazing support and inspiration

P.S this jacket was actually a vday gift for the boyf, sneaky I know.

Dressing to look thin

2011-02-15T23:17:00.001+04:00

Why? Why is it wrong for us to wear high collars and only stick to v-necks. So, because we have chubby legs, we’re supposed to hide them or wear flares to make them look balanced?What’s so wrong with looking like what your body actually is? It’s your body!

To hell with it all. Wear whatever makes you happy.

I’m not the biggest fan of pants let alone ones that seem to emphasize my wide hips but they’re comfy and I felt awesome wearing them just for the feeling of trying something different and new.

I’ve been off lately, just feeling unpretty yknow? So I got some highlights and a blow dry to pressure myself into trying harder every time I dress up in the morning. I’m feeling heaps better already :)

New Look pants and bag, Spring shoes

How was your Vday? I don’t really believe in it but it’s very hard for me to not support a holiday that involves me getting a gift haha!

My vday gift was awesome rollerblades!!!! I never got to rollerblade as a kid but all I got all inspired after Whip It. I wanna be all badass on blades too (of course after all the kids in the park laugh at me trying to learn rollerblading) They look amazing, no? So shiny!

Btw, I has tumblr now! and I’m looking for people to follow so let me know what’s yours, my dashboard is way too empty.

Have a beautiful day

Beauty isn't worth thinking about; what's important is your mind. You don't want a fifty-dollar haircut on a fifty-cent head. ~Garrison Keillor

What makes me feel beautiful- Amanda Valdez

2011-02-08T23:34:00.001+04:00

“This is difficult to answer because for so long I focused on the traits that made me feel ugly: My acne-prone skin, my larger than average stomach, and my double-chin. It was so easy to find faults in my body that I almost lost sight of the beauty standing in the mirror before me. Luckily there was someone else patiently waiting for me to take notice. She knew as I conquered my battles, including binging and emotional eating, I would remove my blinders one day at time. She was right all along; she was the girl in the mirror.

I cried the first time I accepted my body as a whole. There were no Spanx, no eyeliner, or compliments from my boyfriend. It was just me, embracing who I was, so-called flaws and all. No longer was I just a “pretty face.” (How many times have fat girls heard that one?) I was a woman, a beautiful woman - inside and out.

You see, a fabulous outfit, well applied makeup and the admiring looks from my boyfriend make me feel gorgeous. But the challenges, both internal and external, I once fought make me feel the most beautiful. It’s those challenges that lead me to love myself and see the beauty that was there all along.

At the end of the day, it’s just me and the girl in the mirror. A woman with the occasional breakout, fat stomach, double chin, and yes, even a pretty - no - a beautiful face, if I do say so myself.

While I may not like some of my features or regret past actions from time to time, I still love myself unconditionally because they are a part of me. And they make me feel beautiful.”

Amanda Valdez Plus Size OOTD

Thank you so much Amanda, you were one of the first plus size bloggers I started to follow and you still continue to inspire me with every video and OOTD post

Make sure you catch Amanda on youtube and on Fashion, Love and Martinis!