Enlightenment comes from Australia!

I've recently been enlightened! And it was completely painless, I assure you!

On Bank Holiday Monday, I went to Cheltenham for a spot of retail therapy. Rather than look at the old faithful Evans or New Look, I decided to take a look at a still relatively new store - 'taking shape' in the Regent Arcade - and I was very pleasantly surprised.

'taking shape' is a company founded in Australia. The stores stock an easy to wear, casual style of clothing, incorporating the brands eplissé and virtuelle, as well as their own taking shape and ts active wear brands.

Botanical Breeze dress from 'taking shape'.
Shoes from Nine West

As I'm always on the lookout for new plus size brands, I tried on two of their virtuelle dresses - Botanical Breeze and Tea Rose.

Botanical Breeze as you can see here is a silk shift dress with sunray pleating throughout. The whole thing is so light and airy, it feels weightless. As you all know, my bug bear is dresses purporting to be knee length that, on my 6'1" frame, end up being thigh skimmers! Not at all a problem in this dress and the bonus is that I feel a million dollars. I'm looking forward to wearing this dress on my hols but I know it will look equally fab with a black jersey blazer in the office too.

Tea Rose dress from 'taking shape'.
Shoes from Nine West

The Tea Rose, shown here, is a similar set up. Crinkly, silky fabric in a mix of red, pink, purple and black. Again, really easy to wear and it feels amazingly light and airy. As it is a crinkle fabric, I think this is a perfect travel dress as any creases won't show. Just like the Botanical Breeze, I can definitely see the Tea Rose becoming part of my work wear wardrobe.


Aside from the gorgeous, perfect-for summer styling at 'taking shape', the thing that I found amazing about the shop was the store assistant's genuine desire to serve and to make you feel both welcome and comfortable. I was looked after by Tabitha, who offered me a cup of my choice of tea or coffee on arrival and was in no rush to push me through the purchasing process. Instead, setting up a changing room and relieving me of my selected items to allow me to continue my search in comfort. I have to say that in terms of a shopping experience, other stores will have to go a long way to beat this!

The store's slogan is 'helping you to celebrate your curves' and that is just what they are all about. I can't wait to revisit!