How to do a French Manicure
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The classic french manicure is simple, elegant and gives off a fabulously brilliant polished look. This manicure normally consists of white tips with nude or pink nails. There are many ways to achieve this polished look and we’re here to show you how easy it is to do it at home without the use of acrylics or fake nails. All you need to get started is some good nail clippers, a nail buffer, cuticle pusher and nail varnish of course.
This 9-piece set includes nail clippers, tweezers and a nail file all in a glamorous sparkling case.
Oscars Red Carpet Round Up
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All day we’ve been admiring the stars on the red carpet, with so many stunning gowns it was hard to pick our favourites. We absolutely adore Adele, she looked gorgeous in her embellished black gown with sequins and three quarter length sleeves. It was also great to see her win the award for best original song for Skyfall!
Our knee length version of the dress is covered with beautiful sequins – it’s definitely a winning dress for us!
Party time with Simply Be!
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It’s late December already and here at Simply Be HQ we’re getting in the mood to party. Not only are we looking forward to Christmas day (well of course, it’s the best day of the year) but we’re also looking forward to dressing up and putting on our killer heels for all those fabulous festive parties and to see into the new year, Simply Be style!
With the help of these fashion bloggers we’re here to showcase a few of our most beautiful gowns, worthy to grace any Christmas do, family get-together, or seasonal soiree. So join us in our quest to find the perfect party dress (with not a black dress in sight) in the hope to inspire you to be the belle of the ball!
This Annie beaded dress is one of our most popular dresses. Modelled here by bloggers Bethany of Arched Eyebrow and Mel of Gladrags and Handbags. The shape and beading of this dress is a real winner, click on their individual pictures below to read their review.
Not only is this dress available in this nude colour, but if you’d like a bit of seasonal colour, we’ve also got it in one of our fave colours, teal!
Here are a couple of must-have accessories, we think goes perfectly with this delightful dress for a glamourous evening out! (Click the item to see more).
Kirsty of Fatty unbound is here rocking our floral bodycon dress. For those of you that can’t get enough of the floral print this dress is simply gorgeous. With long sleeves and dark tones this is the perfect piece for your winter wardrobe.
Read Kirsty’s review here.
This bonded lace dress is also a very popular choice, you’ll have to be quick if you want to buy as it’s selling fast (there’s only a few sizes available). Here Rachel from A dress is for life is wearing hers, complete with cute kitten ears.
We love teaming this dress with black tights and ankle boots to give it an edge. Lace is girly and elegant so pairing it with ankle boots, leather or studs gives it that fresh gothic glam look!
Here are two of our favourite ankle boots from our must-have footwear range.
Inspired from the Christian Dior catwalk collection, this red pleated gown oozes glamour and sophistication. The plunging v-neckline, ruched empire line and pleated full skirt, allows this dress to hang in all the right places (after all, if you’ve got, flaunt it!)
The lovely Mhairi of Lilybobombs teams hers with matching red shoes and a sparkly cardi. So forget the LBD, we’re getting seasonal red in this Marilyn Monroe-esque frock.
And lastly we couldn’t do a party feature without mentioning our party essentials, from the demure evening look, to bold and sexy. Here’s a selection of our five beauty must -haves!
1. A slick of black mascara and eye definer instantly transforms your look from day to night.
2. Avoid waking up with panda eyes with Clinique’s rinse-off eye make-up.
3. For a touch a sparkle try out this Metallic gold nail varnish.
4. Pretty in pink – stand out lips to make the boys wink.
5. Keep your sleek up-do in place with Charles Worthington’s firm hold hair spray.
We hope that’s inspired you to find your perfect outfit, and if you have any snaps in your Simply Be gowns, send them in, as we’d love to see it.
What’s your favourite go-to party piece? xx
Simply Be stars at the Look Show
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The Simply Be team headed down south to attend the amazing Look magazine fashion show in London. As the first ever plus size fashion brand to be featured in this show, we got the chance to showcase our fabulous autumn winter outfit!
The star studded event took place in this stunning venue; The Royal Courts of Justice.
Guests included Lydia Bright of Towie, Whitney Port from Britain & Ireland’s next top model and Alesha Dixon who performed on stage.
Among the online brands, Simply Be wowed the crowds with our gorgeous lilac on-trend duster coat – our key must-have this season! It really was a show stopper and had all the girls lusting over it. Underneath the coat was our gorgeous Rise beaded dress – perfect for a night out with the girls.
Whilst keeping an eye on the catwalk we also spied this gorgeous lady wearing our very own studded slouch jumper – love it! (Sorry for the grainy pic, quick use of our camera phone 
)
We’re so proud to be featured in the show, it was a brilliant day and we even got an amazing goody bag of treats to take away… 
xx
September 2012 Round Up
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How was your September? It all seemed to go very quickly here at the Simply Be office, and dare we say it, we’re almost on the countdown to Christmas
This month we have enjoyed reading all about the latest fashion trends and who’s been FROWing at London Fashion Week, dusting off our winter jackets and scarves and of course welcoming the return of weekend TV; Downton Abbey and X Factor – cosy nights in are back!
We’ve got a rundown of our fave moments from this month and in case you missed any of it – as always we have it right here…
At the start of the month we had a lovely visit from Gabi Fresh who came from across the pond to attend London Fashion Week. She visited us at Simply Be HQ in Manchester. It was great to meet her and we’re glad to hear she had a lovely time too. Read her blog to find out what she got up to on her Euro trip!
Gabi in Simply Be floral trousers at our office
Adele has been speaking out about her weight, declaring she is not ashamed of her curvaceous figure. She has said “I’m not worried, I’m plus size and so much bigger than other artists. No matter what you look like the key is to be happy with yourself.” We just love Adele’s mentality and couldn’t agree more!
Also in the news, Ralph Lauren has taken steps to promote a more healthier body image by hiring its very first plus size model. That’s right, Robyn Lawley is 6ft 2in, a size 16 and one of the world’s leading plus size models. In this interview she explains the importance of showcasing curvy women in the media and praises Lady Gaga for urging fans to ‘triumph over insecurities’.
Here’s Robyn in one of her Ralph Lauren shoots.
Do you agree with Robyn or do you feel as this article suggests that the world is not ready to admire plus size figures? Let us know your thoughts here…
Our new Super Curvy boots are our widest calf fitting boots ever and went under a Big Boot challenge reviewed by bloggers Toni at The Only Way is Toni and Becky at The Ramblings of Mrs BeBe – read their blogs to find out how they got on.
Here they are looking fab in the on-trend riding style super curvy boots:
As we come to the end of September we celebrated our Liverpool store’s 1st birthday. We also helped raised over £1000 for McMillan cancer care at the Liverpool branch when we hosted The World’s Largest Coffee morning.
Here are some fab pics from that day:
More store news to look forward to next month as we launch a Simply Be store in our hometown of Manchester – so watch this space
What’s been your highlight of September? xx
Our final Watch & Win video Competition featuring Wendy
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It’s our last instalment of our video blog competition featuring our Paris autumn/winter shoot. Thanks for taking part in our previous three video competitions and if you didn’t get the chance last time, then now is the time to get involved and your opportunity to win a piece from Simply Be.
It’s simple, to be in with the chance of winning, watch this behind-the-scenes video with our beautiful model Wendy and answer the question below:
In this video, Wendy discloses her age, how old is she?
If you know the answer then send it to us in the comments below. Don’t worry if your comments don’t appear as we’ll be approving them all, once the competition ends.
The prize: The winner will be able to choose their fave piece that has appeared in this video.
Entry deadline is 14/10/2012 and the winner will be picked at random after this closing date.
Good Luck! xx
Terms and Conditions
1.The promoter of this competition is Candid Collections Limited, trading as Simply Be, Griffin House, 40 Lever Street, Manchester M60 6ES. (“Promoter”)
2. Each entrant taking part in this competition shall be referred to as a “Participant”. Participants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and to agree to be bound by them when entering this competition.
3. The competition is only open to UK residents aged 18 years or above. Employees of the Promoters, their associated companies, their agencies associated with this competition and their immediate families are ineligible to enter.
4. To enter, Participants must submit the following: The answer to the question on the Simply Be Blog page. Only one entry per person.
5. Entries must be submitted via Simply Be Blog page.
6. Entries must be submitted between 5th October 2012 and midnight on the 14th October 2012 (the “Competition Period”). Entries are deemed to be received at the time of receipt into the Promoter’s database. Late entries will not be accepted and the Promoters accept no responsibility for entries which are lost or corrupted during transmission.
7. The winners will be drawn randomly from the Participants. The Winners will be notified via email.
8. There will be only 1 winner.
9. The decision of the Panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
10. The overall winners will be decided by a random draw from the Participants.
11. THE PRIZE – one Winner will receive their choice of item from Simply Be that has appeared in the video featuring Wendy above, prize is subject to availability. If not in your size, an alternative will be given subject to stock availability.
12. The Prize is not transferable and there is no cash alternative.
13. If for any reason this competition is not capable of running as planned, whether caused by infection by computer virus, mobile phone failure, line drop out, bugs, tampering, unauthorised intervention, fraud, technical failures or any other cause beyond the control of the Promoter which corrupts or affects the administration, security, fairness or integrity of the competition, the Promoter reserves the right in its sole discretion (subject to any written direction given by a relevant Regulatory Authority) to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the competition.
14. These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.
WIN tickets to the LOOK show!
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We’ve got a pair of tickets to giveaway for one lucky person to the amazing Look show in London. If you love fashion, don’t miss out on this fantastic event showcasing all the latest looks from the high street including new season outfits from Simply Be! You and a friend could get your style fix while watching guest star Kelly Brook strut her stuff on the catwalk.
To enter, simply head over to our Facebook page and become a fan (if you’re not already). Then answer one simple question and pop your details in.
Entry deadline is 24/09/2012.
Good Luck! xx
Terms and Conditions
1.The promoter of this competition is Candid Collections Limited, trading as Simply Be, Griffin House, 40 Lever Street, Manchester M60 6ES. (“Promoter”)
2. Each entrant taking part in this competition shall be referred to as a “Participant”. Participants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and to agree to be bound by them when entering this competition.
3. The competition is only open to UK residents aged 18 years or above. Employees of the Promoters, their associated companies, their agencies associated with this competition and their immediate families are ineligible to enter.
4. To enter, Participants must submit the following answer to the question and include their name and email address on the Simply Be Facebook Fan Gate. Only one entry per person.
5. Entries must be submitted via Simply Be Facebook Page .
6. Entries may be submitted between 13th September 2012 and midnight on the 24th September 2012 (the “Competition Period”). Entries are deemed to be received at the time of receipt into the Promoter’s database. Late entries will not be accepted and the Promoters accept no responsibility for entries which are lost or corrupted during transmission.
7. The winner will be drawn randomly from the Participants. The successful Participants will be emailed and then announced on the Simply Be Facebook pages. The Winner will be notified via email.
8. There will be only 1 winner.
9. The decision of the Panel is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
10. The overall winners will be decided by a random draw from the Participants giving the correct answer to the question.
11. THE PRIZE – one winner will receive two tickets to the Look show on the 6th October 2012. Entrants must be able to travel to the event and attend it on this date.
12. The Prize is not transferable and there is no cash alternative.
13. If for any reason this competition is not capable of running as planned, whether caused by infection by computer virus, mobile phone failure, line drop out, bugs, tampering, unauthorised intervention, fraud, technical failures or any other cause beyond the control of the Promoter which corrupts or affects the administration, security, fairness or integrity of the competition, the Promoter reserves the right in its sole discretion (subject to any written direction given by a relevant Regulatory Authority) to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the competition.
14. These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.
Seek out your Wild Side with Simply Be
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Animal print is back in our wardrobe and this is one staple look we just can’t get enough of. We’re not only talking about leopard print here, zebra and snake print have also caught our eye and these prints work well in a number of ways.
Although we’re huge fans of Bette Lynch, we don’t want to steal her style so here’s our take on how to make this fashion trend wearable, chic and oh-so stylish darhling!
For an on-trend touch to your work wear blouse, this animal print shirt certainly ticks the boxes. The peter pan collar and sheer fabric is cute and so easy to wear – ideal for jazzing up your plain black trousers. For a more casual take, try this printed t-shirt. We love the stand-out red colour and the contrast trim on the sleeves and hem line. Great teamed with black or grey jeans.
Work this trend through the evening with these gorgeous dresses. This bold party frock from AX Paris is a fab dress to feel great in. The two-tone print and cross over front detail adds glamour and excitement to your wardrobe. Or how about this Gemma Collins dress from her collection at Simply Be. The tassle and chain design is intertwined with spashes of leopard and tiger print to create one wild dress – we love it!
We adore these oversized floaty cardigans. They’re great in bringing effortless style to your outfit. The snakeskin effect is a hot trend this season, it’s different, mesmerising and certainly one to look out for.
Now who says you can’t extend this trend to the bedroom – leopard print lingerie is fun, sexy and so on-trend. Go for glamour in these two beauties -the Gossard on the prowl animal print bra and the Naturally Close bodyshaper - and show off your wild side.
Fancy footwear has never looked so good. Wear your heels with pride in this animal print court shoe - a good size heel and wide fit they’re great to wear from day to night. Love wearing flats? Embrace the trend and stand out in these fierce pumps.
Add character to your outfit with these smart dalmation pumps. The monochrome colours mean they are versatile enough to wear with casual jeans and a tee or your office outfit. On rainy days, rock up in animal print wellies – this giraffe design is sure to get heads turning.
If you’re not tempted by these outfits and want to work this trend the subtle way (or not so subtle depending on how you wear it) then check out these make-up looks. We’re loving the eyeshadow and can’t wait to try it out – time to get practicing!
Ok maybe the lips are a step too far. Have you tried out this trend yet? How do you wear yours? xx
Simply Be Brides
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We love a good wedding, it’s a wonderful occasion from start to finish and one of the best things is seeing how beautiful the bride looks in her gown!
We know how difficult it can sometimes be to find stunning wedding gowns to suit and flatter your curvalicious figure, let alone get a suitable price tag to match. As you know, we love to embrace curves so here at Simply Be we’ve created our very own Bridal Boutique. This bridal collection includes four dresses (all £100 or less) each with their own unique look, after all bridal shopping shouldn’t be stressful, so here’s our quick guide.
Grace – Feminine Fairytale: For the more traditional girl, this wedding dress named Grace is oh-so feminine! The pretty petal detail adds a fairytale touch, if you’re one for being swept off her feet, this is for you. The beautiful full-length gown and empire line is figure flattering with a twist to the classical bridal style.
Marilyn – Elegant and chic: We absolutely love this Marilyn look dress. It’s so chic and will definitely get heads turning as you walk down the aisle. This effortless style is simple yet elegant.
Pair the divine dress with this fur stole to give it that extra charm.
Evelyn – Girly & Glamorous: In soft blush pink this wedding dress is both girly and glamorous. The stunning beads and diamante detail to the front adds a touch of class, while the wrap front detail cinches in your waist and shows off those curves. If you don’t want the classical white or ivory dress then blush pink is a glam alternative – a great match for the blushing bride!
Isabella – Modern & Sophisticated: Finally we have the Isabella dress in an off-white oyster colour. We think it’s gorgeous and love the grecian style and soft delicate floaty fabric. With a flattering empire line cut, it’s perfect for brides with bigger chests. This dress just sweeps the ankles, so get those gorgeous wedding heels on show and team with delicate silver and pearl accessories.
Now all you have to do is pick your favourite, which one do you like the best? xx
Simply Be’s Staycation Summer
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Going to a festival, fair or fiesta this summer? Or planning a nice relaxing staycation? Then here’s our guide to stepping out to the British outdoors in gorgeous fashion, while being stylishly practical!
We love a British holiday, you can’t beat picnics in the countryside and walks along the coast. What we like even more is fabulous footwear to accompany us. So we’ve got some fancy footwear that’s perfect for a romantic walk or running around a family picnic.
Check out these chic white sandals! Bring some bling to your outfit and get extra heel support with the back. Available in wide fit too.
Add some height to your walk with these purple wedge flip flops. Easy to slip on and off, they are perfect for beach walks. Not a fan of purple, we have them in white too
Next up we have the tunic. They’re great to wear over jeans or leggings and so the perfect outfit for when it’s mild and breezy. Wear bright colours such as this Ruby Rocks print top. Or if you like more of a bold colour, go for this crinkle asymmetric hem tunic which you can wear from day to night and it’s currently on sale for only £15 (but be quick)!
For festival fans, the first thing on the list is wellies! And even though it may be a scorcher of a day – you never know when you’re going to need them, after all the weather could change. So these are a must-have for every British girl, perfect for any kind of festival and always handy to keep in the boot of your car. Don’t let the mud and rain spoil your day and get out there in some fab boots – finally no more soggy socks!
Here’s our favourite four:
Why not brighten up your holiday with a splash of colour from these gorgeous jeans. Mix and match these coloured jeans to suit your mood and stand out from the crowd. From bright yellow and red to pastels pink and purple to bold blue and green, these skinny jeans are the perfect match to tunics, vests and casual tops – but keep it simple, by teaming it with a black or white plain top. Keep your eyes peeled for more on-trend coloured jeans in the new season.
Here’s our daring red jeans to dance the night away or shine like the sun in bright yellow!
Lastly to pack your travelling essentials (i.e: wet wipes, tissues, handgel, phone, torch) you’ll need a good and fashion forward handbag. We think this one will do the trick, easy to carry and soft, plus we are still loving the fringe trend and think it looks fab on this wine coloured suede bag. Not forgetting the trusty parka for a light cover up – take a look at this one from our new Time Out collection.
Which festivals or UK town are you visiting this summer? xx