EDITOR Linda Koch
ARTWORK & DESIGN Emily Galvin
CONTRIBUTORS Annaleigh Koch Ellis Guy Tamsyn Wrann Lena Salmon Laura Gentles Chiara Aprea Christopher Wheatley Amanda Attwood Lilly Ashford Jennifer Owens Chloe Richards
0845 872 1473 www.bgpmagazine.co.uk
www.ukplussizeevents.com DISCLAIMER: All text and layout is the copyright of UK Plus Size Events. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher. All copyrights are recognised and used specifically for the purpose of criticism and review. Although the magazine has endeavoured to ensure all information is correct at the time of going to print, prices and availablilty may change. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with any companies mentioned herein.
PAGE 9
in this issue
PAGE 14
PAGE 32
PAGE 70
PAGE 49
PAGE 58
6 What We’ve Been Upto & Latest News 9 Spring Satchels Colourful bags to make your outfits pop this season 14 Cover girl story: Bethany Churcher On her Britain’s Got Talent Audition & future ambitions 26 Get your Gloves Off! 28 Top Buys for Pretty Eyes The top bargain beauty products for stunning eyes 32 How Kate Does Fashion With fashion guru, blogger & plus size beauty Kate London-James 43 Time for Tee A selection of curvy t-shirts perfect for Spring 44 Join the Blues Club The hottest trend of the season: Denim 49 Be Inspired Cover girl Bethany Churcher shows us how to rock the denim look 58 A BGP Travel Guide for Weekends Away With matching style and fashion ideas 70 3 Recipes for Chocolate Lovers Delicious ideas for using up left over Easter Eggs
EDITOR’S LETTER Welcome to issue 10 of BGP Magazine, our fab Spring Edition. We have had an amazing time working on this issue, and met some amazing inspirational. We were fortunate to interview the beautiful and stylish Kate London-James, and we had a great day getting to know her on page 32. We also met up with long-time friend of BGP Magazine, amazing model and singer, Bethany Churcher, who told us about her audition for Britain’s Got Talent... really, what was Simon thinking?! We’re confident that the talented Bethany has a bright future ahead of her and can’t wait to see her perform at the British Plus Size Awards 2015 in November, and you can read her story on page 14. There are many more amazing articles in this issue, but don’t take my word for it - sit back and have a read, and I look forward to seeing you all at the Curvy Convention on 16th May!
Linda Koch x
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BGP NEWS
WHAT WE’VE BEEN UPTO... I
n January we were lucky enough to head behind the scenes at the Curvy Convention model casting, which took place at super swish venue White Space in Central London. We met some absolutely incredible women, who each had their own inspiring story and we left the day feeling truly inspired and impressed with the amount of beautiful plus size women that showed up. Find out more about the Curvy Convention at www.curvyconvention.co.uk.
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BE THE FIRST TO HEAR THE NEWS To find out all the latest news and competitions we have, head over to our social media and give us a follow or like! Facebook users can find us at facebook.com./BGPMagazine, Tweeter’s can find us @BGPMagazine and Instagram lovers can find us at instagram.com/BGPMagazine!
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t the beginning of the year, we attended the photoshoot for this year’s Miss Plus Size International finalists, and got to know the ladies behind the photos. The women looked stunning after having individual make overs to suit their outgoing personalities, and we can’t wait to join them at their boot camp experience in the middle of June! Head over to Facebook to follow the stories of each contestant, or find out more at www.missplussizeinternational.com.
The BGP Magazine team have been here, there and everywhere over the last few months since our last issue, so here is just a little bit of what we’ve been up to!
RED NOSE DAY We were lucky enough to spend this year’s Red Nose Day for Comic Relief with the beautiful plus size blogger Kate London-James! You can read her interview on Page 32!
BRITISH PLUS SIZE AWARDS 2015
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he nominations for British Plus Size Awards 2015 opened in February, which after the great success last year, will get people across the country submitting nominations for their favourite brands, celebrities and bloggers. This year also sees brand new categories in the running, such as Best Fashion Photographer, Best Menwear Brand, Best Burlesque performer and Best Health & Lifestyle Magazine. BGP Magazine
was nominated last year for Best Magazine, and we would love to be nominated again! If you think we deserve another nomination, you can nominate us today at www. britishplussizeawards. co.uk! The British Plus Size Awards have also announced that presenting this year will be loveable Essex charmer
Jeff Brazier, alongside plus size model and actress Chiara Aprea. Tickets for the awards are also available to purchase on the website for this year’s ceremony, so book yours today and we’ll see you there! WWW.BGPMAGAZINE.CO.UK // 7
Cuckooland.com Leather Satchel in Ultra Violet £84.00
BGP
LOVES
Debenhams Lilac Satchel from Red Herring £35.00
SPRIN G SATCHELS Add a splash of colour to your wardrobe with a super cute and stylish on trend satchel!
Marks & Spencer Limited Edition Satchel £29.50
Cuckooland.com Leather Satchel in Mustard Yellow £84.00
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Accessorize Rosie Single Buckle Top Handle £25.00
The Vestry Louisa Colour Pop Satchel Orange £30.00
House of Fraser Therapy Pink Patent ‘Sophia’ Micro Satchel £39.00
BGP
LOVES
BHS Mint and Grey Lock Satchel £25.00
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Pale Blue Saddle Bag from Dorothy Perkins, £22.00
Brighton Rock Leather Satchel from Next, £125.00
Black Waterfall Blazer, Swing Vest and Mono Stripe Cuffed Trousers, from Topsy Curvy
BGP MAGAZINE EXCLUSIVE
BETHANY CHURCHER THE WOMAN BEHIND THE VOICE Bethany Churcher is an aspiring plus size model and singer, currently living in London and studying performing arts. After performing at the British Plus Size Awards for the last two years running, and having an exceptional feedback from the audience, Bethany was scouted by popular ITV competition Britain’s Got Talent. Excited and overwhelmed at the prospect of actually be scouted for the show, Bethany began rehearsing and preparing herself for the biggest opportunity of her life.
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he show hadn’t given her much time to prepare, and had also pre-chosen her an obscure and challenging song to perform, but nothing deterred Bethany from practicing whenever possible. Feeling hopeful and optimistic, Bethany headed down to the venue ready to take on the judges, however left the day feeling exploited and let down by the production team. What Bethany thought was an opportunity of a lifetime turned out to be somewhat of a staged plan to make good
television. Bethany tells us “I had to be there for 1.30pm, only to wait around for hours. I expected to wait and had no problem doing so, but they clearly knew what time we would be going on stage. Eventually they put me in the holding room that you see on tv, however you just sit there for hours again, with extremely high air con that was making the air dry so my throat was getting sorer by the minute. Finally, they started doing bits and pieces of filming, and that is when they start to bring out all of your emotions asking every
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“
question possible, and questions they know will upset you by digging deeper into your feelings. I was in tears by this point and very emotional, I just wanted to perform and go home. Backstage, they film you ‘preparing’ to go on stage but by the time I finally went on stage I was a mess. It was 11.30pm at night , I was tired, had a sore throat and hadn’t had any time to warm up, and my eyes were sore from them making me cry so much. Needless to say, my audition didn’t go as planned. David was lovely and saw that I had talent, even though I know I messed up my audition from emotion, and Alesha said yes after pressure from the audience, but Amanda and Simon said no much to the audiences dismay. I was very upset, feeling hurt and embarrassed, but am hoping that I can take it in my stride and use it to my advantage.” BGP Magazine were shocked to hear the judges decision and how poorly Bethany was treated. Here, we interview Bethany and find out more about the woman behind the voice, and her hopes and aspirations.
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Black and White Grid Print Swing Dress, £15.00 from Tospy Curvy
“I WAS VERY UPSET AND EMBARRASSED, BUT HOPING THAT I CAN TAKE IT IN MY STRIDE AND USE IT TO MY ADVANTAGE.”
PU Sleeve Swing Dress, ÂŁ12 from Topsy Curvy
IF YOU CONSTANTLY CONFORM TO SOCIETY’S UNREALISTIC STANDARDS, NOTHING WILL CHANGE.” When did you first release you wanted to be a performer? I realised at a very young age that I wanted to perform, I actually sang in front of my school leavers assembly when I was moving up to year 3 from infant school, and changed the words of an Abba song to ‘thank you for the teachers, for teaching it to me.’ Everybody loved it and I knew from that moment on that’s what I wanted to be. What obstacles have you had to overcome? I stopped singing for a couple of years when I got to my highest weight. To start with, that was down to embarrassment because of the mean reactions I would get from people, but in the end my health deteriorated and it wasn’t until I got healthier that I gained the confidence to start singing again. You always have to be aware that there are better than you out there so you have to stay tuned to what makes you different and unique from the others.
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Where did the confidence come from to chase your dream? Losing weight and becoming healthier definitely helped me, but it was more the fact of being grateful for where I was. At one point in my life I was in a hospital bed hooked up to all kinds of machines and it crossed my mind that I could die there and never fulfil my dreams - that realisation spurred me on to push harder. How do you feel about being plus size in an industry renowned for being so image conscious? It is difficult, yes. It’s certainly a very judgmental industry but gladly I think it is slowly starting to change. I feel confident in myself, my body, and my abilities. Who are your biggest supporters? I am lucky to have an extremely tight knit unit of family and friends, who are have always supported and continue to support me no matter what. Also, your very own editor Linda
Aztec Print Swing Dress, ÂŁ15 from Topsy Curvy
“I WANT TO INSPIRE PEOPLE AND ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO ALWAYS CHASE THEIR DREAMS.”
Koch who has believed in me from the day we met, and I am unbelievably grateful for the opportunities she has given me. How was it performing at the British Plus Size Awards 2014? It was brilliant! It was my second year of performing there, and I always love performing at the British Plus Size Awards because it has a place so close to my heart. It’s also a very prestigious event, so I can get dressed up and feel glamorous. Who doesn’t love getting all dressed up?! What are your proudest achievements? Being alive to tell the tale! Haha, no really. The fact that I’m even here today makes me feel incredibly proud of myself. I have been through so much in my life, and every day I feel like I’m being given a second chance to be who I am and make the most of living. What are you currently up to with regards to singing? I often sing at open mic nights around London, and do support gigs here and there. but my main goal right now is my studies. I am currently at University studying Drama and Theatre Arts, so that takes up most of my time! I am hoping to do some recording by the end of the year. What are your ambitions and goals? To bring happiness to others through my work and to always be able to do what I love. I would love to be a successful performing artist, but most importantly I want to inspire people and encourage people to always chase their dreams. You can see more of Bethany modelling for BGP Magazine on page 49.
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Elegant touch nail remover pads available for £2.00 from River Island
Pure colour nail polish available from £2.99 from New Look
GET Y GLOV Save the Nail Repair & Rescue Treatment available from £7.50 Superdrug and Boots
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YOUR VES OFF
Mini manicure set available for £5 from Boots
W
inter is firmly behind us, and it’s time to take off those wooly mitts and pay a little attention to our most used assets - our hands! Cold weather can dry out your skin, and it’s easy to get out of the habit of keeping your nails swish and polished. Here are some of our favourite products to keep your hands looking perfectly peachy this Spring!
Shea hand cream available for £3.50 from The Body Shop WWW.BGPMAGAZINE.CO.UK // 27
Top beauty buys for
Pretty Eyes
Get your eyes in check and looking fabulous with these top beauty buys for every budget!
MASCARA Long luscious lashes is something that every girl dreams of, and whilst there are some amazing faux lashes available out there, sometimes it nice to not have to worry about them falling off or applying them evenly! Here are some of the best lash building mascaras available to make the most of your natural assets.
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1. MUA Mascara Extreme Volume, Extreme
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Black - £2.00 // 2. Maybelline New York Volum’ Express Lift-Up Mascara - £6.19 // 3. Seventeen Falsifeye HD Mascara - £6.99 // 4. Estee Lauder Sumptous Extreme Mascara - £23.00 //
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EYEBROW PENCILS The power brow is a must have for every woman in 2015, and with a widely available selection of tools and wonder treatments available on the market, there is no excuse to let your brows run wild! Whether you like the natural look or a sharp edged brow. here are some of the best little helpers to keep your brows looking full, luxurious and perfectly well groomed!
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1. L’Oreal Paris Brow Artiste Eyebrow Pencil - £5.49 // 2. Yves Saint Laurent Eyebrow Pencil - £20.00 // 3. Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil - £2.99 // 4. Soap & Glory Archery brow Tint and Pencil - £10.00 //
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LIQUID
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EYELINER
For a dramatic and glamourous look, always opt for a liquid or gel eye liner. Eye liner defines the outline of your eye, and gives your eyes that extra special wow factor, and depending on what you’re hoping to achieve, you can alter the 1 entire shape of your eye with just one stroke. We adore the winged look, although for a more subtle definition, try adding your eyeliner from the centre of your eye to the edge. 1. Seventeen High Drama Liquid Eyeliner - £3.99 // 2. Rimmel Exaggerate Eye Liner - £5.29 // 3. No7 Stay Precise Liquid Liner - £7.50 // 4.
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Lancome Artliner 24Hr Eyeliner - £21.00 //
Getting it Off BEST FOR
VALUE
For an absolute bargain that will restore your faith in budget brands, this Simply Pure Gentle Eye Make Up Remover - £2.59 is available from Superdrug is a great make up remover that will leave your skin squeaky clean!
BEST FOR
SENSITIVE SKIN
If you suffer with overly sensitive skin like some of us here at BGP, Nivea Visage Eye Make Up Remover - £3.49 is extra gentle, and should avoid any unnessecary reactions!
BEST FOR
RESULTS
Here in the BGP office, we absolutely love this L’Oreal Skin Perfection Micellar Eye Make Up Remover - £3.99, and we’ve found that not only does it remove every single piece of make up, it leaves you skin feeling amazing!
BEST FOR
HIGH END
If your budget stretches to some of the higher end make up brands, we love this Lancome Effacil Eye Make Up Remover £21.50, and recommend it for those looking for a quality product.
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BIKER JACKET - £79.00, BLACK SHIRT £35.00, PRINTED PLEATED MAXI SKIRT £49.00 FROM ELVI
B G P MA G A Z INE INT E RVIEW
HOW KATE DOES FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY GALVIN MAKE UP ANNALEIGH KOCH MODEL KATE LONDON-JAMES FASHION ELVI.CO.UK
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crolling through Instagram one day, we stumbled across a gorgeous image of a gorgeous woman who oozed style and confidence, and rocked her plus size curves with passion and dedication. We instantly knew that we wanted to find out more about this woman, and thus came about this interview with the beautiful fashion blogger, Kate London-James from How Kate Does Fashion. From the minute she stepped off the train, Kate was a pleasure to be around. Eloquent, polite, friendly and humorous, Kate fitted in to our team perfectly and we loved every minute of our fashion shoot with her. It soon became evident that Kate was also absolutely fearless, and took to modelling like a fish to water. We went on to find out about what inspired Kate to begin blogging, her hopes and ambitions, and her top fashion must-haves! Firstly, thank you so much for coming! Tell us a bit about yourself! Well, my name is Kate LondonJames and I’m 25 – I live in South Wales with my partner, and I work as a Recruitment Coordinator. I have been running my blog for just over a year now, and I am ridiculously obsessed with dogs haha. Haha, we’re also quite fond of
dogs! How did your blog originally come about? What inspired you to start? As a teenager my style was very... experimental, shall we say?! I went through the ‘Goth’ stage, then the ‘Emo’ stage, and finally, after that, I started developing my own sense of style. After I left college my selfconfidence really started to grow, I joined Tumblr and begun coming across incredibly stylish
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plus size women, which I had never seen before and it blew my mind! I had heard about personal blogs here and there and seeing those stunningly fabulous plus size women made me want to inspire others to feel the same way, and to hopefully promote the fact that the words ‘fat’ and ‘stylish’ are by no means mutually exclusive! So tentatively I took my first steps into the world of blogging, and I have had the most incredible, world wind time and met the most incredible people since! That sounds amazing, and incredibly inspiring! How do your friends and family feel about your blogging success? I have the most amazing, supportive family and friends. I honestly could not ask for a better network! My Mum especially has always been a huge inspiration to me; she raised my Brother and I by herself but always managed to look incredible whilst doing so! She never looked like a ‘normal’ Mum. I think she was the reason I was so interested in fashion from such a young age, because she showed me you don’t have to look like they tell you, you should and you should embrace your individuality! My partner is super supportive too, and I would like to thank him for being so patient and always taking my blog photographs for me, even when I make him stand there whilst I check through them to make sure they’re ok haha! That’s great that you have such a great support network. The plus size industry can often have negative connotations, do you feel there is a stigma attached to the word plus-size? I think it is becoming less so now than it was when I was younger. As a bigger teenager, I did suffer a lot of negativity due to my size but as I got older and my confidence
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SEEING STUNNINGLY FABULOUS PLUS SIZE WOMEN MADE ME WANT TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO FEEL THE SAME WAY, AND TO HOPEFULLY PROMOTE THAT THE WORDS ‘FAT’ AND ‘STYLISH’ ARE BY NO MEANS MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE!”
STONE MAC, £99.00 FROM ELVI
BIKER JACKET, £79.00, BLACK FIT AND FLARE EMBELLISHED DRESS ,£45.00 FROM ELVI
grew, that started to diminish. I’m not sure if that’s because it really did start to happen less or because I started to care less haha! I know a lot of people do still feel that promoting plus size style etc is promoting obesity but we all know how ridiculous that is! Plus size fashion magazines are really paving the way for plus size high fashion, which is a huge step! As far as the word itself is concerned, I think it’s irrelevant – plus size, fat, bigger, rounded, curvy, it’s all the same thing and none of those terms should be viewed as negative in my opinion! We couldn’t agree more! Have you personally had any negative experiences within the plus size industry, and how have you overcome them? So far, my experience of the plus size industry has been wonderful! I have met the most incredible human beings through events and communities and it really has changed my life. I have met women, that I know I will be friends
with for life, who have become my fat soul sisters! I have also been lucky enough to work with amazing brands! So thankfully, I have not had to overcome any negative experiences so far. Glad to hear it! What is the most interesting experience you have had as a blogger so far? This is such a hard question! I have had so many interesting experiences so far in my short blogging career! I think the one that stands out to me is attending Plus North 2014 because it was my first real experience of the plus size blogging community as a whole. I travelled to Leeds by myself and was, honestly, terrified to meet everyone for the first time because I had no idea what to expect! But I had no need to be nervous. Everyone was more welcoming than I could have ever dreamed! We laughed, joked and all had so much in common which is something I have never had before. I have never been in a room of women and felt so supported and at home. It was also great to meet
brands, something I had never had the chance to do before – so putting a face to a name (as I had had email contact with several brands) was awesome. It honestly was a life changing experience! It sounds it! We were there too, and it definitely was a liberating experience! Let’s talk fashion. How would you describe your personal style? This question always totally stumps me haha! Ummm, I think my style is a generous helping of glamour, a dollop of 90’s goth, a sprinkle of small town country girl, a touch of mod, finished off with a huge spoonful of confidence for good measure! We think you summed that up quite perfectly! Which celebrities inspire your style? This probably sounds odd but I find fellow plus size bloggers a lot more inspiring than I find celebrities! This is why I love Instagram so much! There is nothing I love more than stumbling across an impeccably dressed woman, plus size or not,
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NAVY MIDI DRESS, £39.00, STONE MAC, £99.00, FROM ELVI
on Instagram and taking inspiration from her outfits! But a few celebrities that do spring to mind are Beth Ditto – she will always remain my fatshion inspiration, I remember being so happy at the release of her first collection with Evans that I actually cried haha! I also really love Tilda Swinton, her style is so eccentric and her take on masculine tailoring is to die for, as well as Felicity Hayward – the British curve queen and Priscilla Ono – who absolutely slays the must have in plus size look! She’s amazing, isn’t she?! What are your 3 fashion must haves? Big hair, faux fur and a good pair of black boots! With those, you can three things, you can take on anything haha! What style advice do you have for plus-size ladies? Do not be afraid, do not be ashamed – you are glorious and beautiful and should celebrate every inch of your plus size body! Wear the clothes YOU love,
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because YOU love them. Don’t let people tell you what ‘does’ and ‘doesn’t’ suit you because if you have to confidence, you can rock whatever you want. Embrace patterns and stripes, skinnies and minis, thigh high boots and sleeveless tops! If you try something on and feel magical in it, don’t worry whether or not you will wear it or whether or not it hides your ‘problem area’s – buy it and feel magical every day! Ultimately, ENJOY style, enjoy YOUR style and continue to break the rules! A-m-a-z-i-n-g. You nailed it with every word. What are your three favourite brands to wear or shops to buy clothes in? This is such a hard question because there are so many amazing plus size brands out there now and that number is growing by the day! As far as my staple brands are concerned I think I will have to go with ASOS Curve, Simply Be and Yours Clothing – they are all so great, for very different reasons.
BLACK SHIRT, £35.00, PRINTED PLEATED MAXI SKIRT, £49.00, FROM ELVI
STONE MAC , £99.00, GREEN ASYMMETRIC TOP, £35.00, BLACK SLIM FIT TROUSERS, £35.00, TAUPE FRINGE BAG, £45.00, GREY ROUND NECK JUMPER, £39.00FROM ELVI
ASOS Curve was the first plus size fashion brand I ever found that really inspired me and showed me I could be fat and totally fabulous! But like I said, there are so many new plus size brands cropping up, it’s so great to see. I think a few of my favourite new brands would probably be Monroe Knows and That Day – definitely two up and comers that are a must! We’ll be sure to check those out. Finally, what are your hopes and ambitions for the future? In the future I would love to continue to develop my blog, work with more brands and publications and a real dream of mine is to go into styling. I would love to style for
campaigns, lookbooks and fashion shoots generally. I know that is a big dream but I think it’s good to have big dreams and ambitions, it proves that you’re passionate about what you’re doing haha. But to be honest, if this year brings even a portion of the success and incredible times I had last year, I will be more than grateful. We wish you the best of luck with it, and have no doubt we’ll be seeing more of you in the future!
You can find out more about Kate and her fashion endeavours at www.instagram.com/katelondonjames and www.instagram.com/ howkatedoesfashion!
elvi.co.uk
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TIME FOR TEE No wardrobe should ever be without a staple T-shirt. Whether you’re after something simple for layering or a patterned show stopper, nail the basics with these tees.
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1. Marl couture tee // GBP 14.99 // New Look 2. Acid wash tee // GBP 12.00 // Simply Be 3. Black mesh tee // GBP 35.00 // Evans 4. Texture tee // GBP 18.00 5. Floral lace tee // Price TBA // F&F at Tesco 6. Monochrome tee // 40.00 // Elvi 7. Tie front t-shirt // GBP 14.00 // Tu at Sainsburys 8. Marl t-shirt // GBP 14.00 // Yours Clothing
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Blu
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JEANS
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good pair of jeans are somewhat of wardrobe must-have in our eyes. Depending on where you shop, size can vary from store to store, making a good fitting pair of jeans incredibly hard to find!
OUR TOP TIP
We recommend finding the style you feel suits you best, and then shopping around to get the perfect fit. GBP 35.00 // SIMPLY BE
B G P MA G A Z INE FAS HION
Denim is one of the hottest trends in the Spring/Summer 2015 fashion world. BGP Magazine have put together a collection of some of the best buys in the
ues Club plus size industry, so everyone can rock the look this Spring.
Join the
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GBP 30.00 // EVANS
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GBP 26.00 // SIMPLY BE
GBP 45.00 // FASHION WORLD
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Shirt Dress // GBP 45.00 // EVANS Babydoll Dress // 35.00 // SIMPLY BE Pocket Shift Dress // GBP 30.00 // JD WILLIAMS
THE DENIM
DRESS
Spring in the UK often means bright and fresh days with a cool, crisp breeze, making denim the perfect fabric to keep you warm enough to enjoy the sun. Dresses are always great, and we love the fact that you don’t have to worry about finding a top to match your bottoms, or vice versa.
OUR TOP TIP
Denim is so versatile when it comes to accessories, and adding a brightly coloured bag or pair of shoes can really finish off your look for that fresh spring vibe. Mustard leather satchel // 84.00 // CUCKOOLAND.COM White leather cut out heels // GBP 34.00 // SIMPLY BE
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THE COWBOY
SHIRT Looking for an ultra casual but stylish look? Embrace the denim shirt. We particularly love this two tone denim shirt by Tu at Sainsburys.
OUR TOP TIP
Just add black skinny jeans, winged eyeliner, and a fab red lipstick for a timelessly cool, retro chic look.
THE DENIM
JACKET
Channel your inner James Dean with an effortlessly cool denim jacket, a great alternative to your winter coat. We love a cropped denim jacket on top of a floaty maxi dress.
OUR TOP TIP
Be brave and double denim! It’s literally everywhere this season, so go crazy. If you’re not quite feeling the denim jacket, opt for a denim waist coat. Denim blouse // GBP 20.00 // SIMPLY BE Two tone denim shirt // GBP 18.00 // YOURS CLOTHING Denim Waistcoat // GBP 27.00 // YOURS CLOTHING Baby blue scarf // GBP 10.00 // F&F AT TESCO Denim Jacket // GBP 35.00 // SIMPLY BE
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Crop and vest - Models own Blue Acid Wash Denim Jeggings at £20.00 from Yours Clothing
Be
Inspired MODEL BETHANY CHURCHER PHOTOGRAPHER EMILY GALVIN MAKE UP ANNALEIGH KOCH
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Button up denim shirt dress from ASOS Curve Black Leggings from Tospy Curvy
White Shirt with ¾ sleeve, £20.00, Ridley Ankle Grazer Jeans in Trent Wash with Ripped Knees, £30.00, Both from ASOS Curve
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Crop shirt and vest, Models own, Denim Blue Paisley Print Jeggings at ÂŁ25.00 from Yours Clothing
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White Shirt with ¾ sleeve, £20.00, from ASOS, Jeggings £10, was £15, from Topsy Curvy
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BGP M AGA Z I N E T RAV E L
WEEKENDS
AWAY
AND THE PERFECT STYLE TO MATCH Looking for a quick getaway to escape from every day life, but don’t fancy jumping on a plane? There are some amazing places in our very own country, so BGP Magazine has put together some ideas to please every kind of traveller, from adventure seekers to history buffs, and some top tips and fashion ideas to go with them!
TOP TIPS • Look out for discounts and deals on comparrison sites for combination packages, such as hotels, dinner and theatre tickets. • Plan your weekend in advance! London is a busy and fast moving city, but knowing your itinerary before you go will save you time trying to decide where to go next • Explore the local galleries and museums, and check out the latest exhibitions on during your stay.
Best for...
CHIC & SOPHISTICATED Nothing quite compares to that big city vibe you get when visiting our vibrant metropolitan capital, London.
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ith it’s iconic skyline, patriotic feel and urban coolness, London is the perfect location for a quick weekend getaway for those looking for somewhere chic to get dressed up and enjoy the finer things in life. London is a hive of activity, and features some of the best bars, restaurants and entertainment in the country.
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Megaro Hotel
Adria Boutique Hotel
Printed Oversized Top and Suedette Studded Waistcoatboth, both from Elvi // Navy silk shirt from JD Williams, £80.00
London Style
Leather bag from Dune £69.00
It’s only natural to want to look your best when wondering around the cosmopolitan city, but make sure your wear comfortable footwear to avoid any aches or pains!
Satin Trim Tuxedo Trousers from Simply Be, £39.00 // Watch from Karen Millen, £95 // Peach bracelet pack from Daisy & Eve, £10 // The Shoe Tailor Ankle Boot from JD Williams, £50.00
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Pink knit top from Evans // Pink Waterfall jacket from JD Williams, £70.00
SPA STYLE
Spa breaks are all about one thing - comfort, but that’s no reason to not look amazing at the same time!
Lace Tunic Dress £49 from Simply Be // Patent block colour sandals from Evans
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Cut Work Tote Bag White by Very.co.uk, £30.00
TOP TIPS • Check websites such as Group On or Wowcher for spa break deals across the country, you can also get some amazing last minute deals! • More than two of you? Look for a private holiday home or log cabin hire, which can work out inexpensive when divived between more people. • Explore the local area. Even if walking isn’t your thing, try a luxurious picnic or local afternoon tea surrounded by the scenery.
Best for...
RELAXATION Want to escape the hustle & bustle of every day life? Look no futher than one of the most beautiful landscapes in Britain, the Lake District.
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ndoubtedly home to some of the most stunning scenery nature has to offer, the tranquil Lake District is an excellent choice for those looking for a relaxing break to recharge your batteries. There are plenty of luxurious spas to choose from, or if you’re looking for something more private then there are many private log cabins and holiday homes available to hire. For activities, try a calming boat trip around the lakes or a country stroll on one of the many hiking trails that the district has to offer.
The Lakeside Hotel
The Daffodil Hotel & Spa
The Cranleigh Suites
TOP TIPS • Explore the local restaurants for some award winning grub and celebrity chef kitchens, such as Jamie Oliver’s 15 and Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant! • Research smaller coves and tiny beaches to escape the crowds and find a spot perfect for you. • Being in Britain, you can never guarantee that the weather will always be shining, so plan for a few rainy day activities or hit a local spa to avoid disappointment
Best for...
SUNSHINE & BEACHES If you’re desperate for a bit of British sun and a gorgeous beach to laze on, we recommend ultra hip and fun Cornwall!
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hink sandy beaches, blue skies and turquoise seas... sounds perfect, right? Cornwall is a great place to visit for beautiful beaches and that super cool surfer feel. There are plenty of trendy restaurants, seaside activities and water activities to keep you entertained, or simply spend your time basking in the sun at a luxury hotel!
Poularrian Hotel
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The Nare Hotel
Boskerris Hotel
BEACH STYLE Hit the local beach in style this Spring with stylish accessories. Hats are always in, and a great way to protect yourself from the sun!
Braid fedora from Accessorize, £19.00 // Bernadette brown leather satchel bag from White Stuff, £59.95
Stripe bardot top from Simply Be, £18.00 // Bird print swimsuit from Fashion World, £32.00 // Square sunglasses from Accessorize, £15.00
Knee length denim shorts from George, £12.00 // Triple ox tongue coral Converse from Get The Label, £34.99
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White linen shirt and Floral box top, both from Elvi // Tan trousers from JD Williams, £28.00 // Pleated Lace Overlay Dress from Simply Be, £60.00
Strappy heels from Simply Be
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bath style
TOP TIPS • If your budget can stretch to some of the Michelin starred restaurants that Bath has to offer, we recommend French restaurant Cassini’s for food that you’ll be talking about for years to come! • Hit the shops! Bath has plenty of swish boutiques with luxury items and fancy goods for sale, but Bath is also full of sneaky hills that will you leave you exhausted. Plan your route to coincide with some stop rests at the luxurious coffee shops and cafes Bath has to offer.
Best for...
HISTORY & CULTURE
The Bailbrook Hotel
For a level of sophistication, history & culture that can’t be replicated, visit the beautiful city of Bath for a culture rich weekend away.
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ne of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in the country, Bath has a lot to offer those looking to emerge yourself in the history of Britain. There are some fabulous independant museums available, including the Jane Austen museum and Fashion Museum Bath to name a few, and of course the Roman Baths are available for those looking to explore the Roman history of Bath and unwind in the spa at the same time!
Macdonald Hotel
The Bath Priory
TOP TIPS • Private boats can be hired from various places around most Loch’s and Lakes. Small independant companies can give you some deals, and the trip will leave you breathless! • There are many activies in Scotland that you can plan and book in advance, scour the internet for activities that take place close to where you are staying - Scotland is huge and whilst driving down any one road can be stunning, make sure you plan your time accordingly.
Best for...
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE If you’re looking for a weekend of outdoor adventure, look no further than the heart of Scotland.
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ountains, Loch’s, scenerary to die for, Scotland just oozes adventure and homes unlimited valleys and national parks to explore if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure. Hire a private boat and cruise down the Loch Lomond, or head off into the wilderness and view the wild variety of wildlife, including majestic stags and deer!
Inversnaid Hotel
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Lochgoilhead Lodge
Loch Array Hotel
outdoor style
Yellow pointelle jumper from So Fabulous, £34.00 // Navy joggers from Elvi // Reversible Festival Jacket from Simply Be, £45.00 // Faded jeans from Evans
Duo colour backpack from Primmark, £9.00 // Dylan trainers from White Stuff, £35.00
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RECIPES FOR
CHOCOLATE LOVERS Y
ou have probably noticed that for the last couple of months, most supermarkets, shops and convenience stores have been stocking up and cramming as much chocolate on to their shelves as physically possible, all in the run up to the chocolatiest day of the year, Easter! Whether you have little ones who get countless chocolate eggs from family members
or friends, or you yourself have a few easter eggs left over, there’s only so much chocolate it’s possible to eat in one day, so we’ve put together a small collection of recipes for those with plenty of chocolate to use up who want to get a little creative. From chocolate truffles to chocolate fondue, these recipes are great for gifts, an afternoon treat or a dinner party showstopper. Enjoy!
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CHOCOLATE FONDUE A chocolate fondue is a quick and easy fun way to use up left over chocolate with minimal effort but maximum results. This is also a great way to end a dinner party and get your guests involved!
INGREDIENTS
400g dark chocolate 85g unsalted butter 284ml carton double cream 300ml milk
FOR DIPPING
CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES
Marshmallows Strawberries Shortbread Chunks of Brioche Mini Donuts Mini Meringues Banana Grapes
300ml double cream 300g dark chocolate, chopped Cocoa powder
METHOD
METHOD
Put the chocolate, butter, cream and milk into a saucepan, then heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is melted and the sauce is smooth. Skewer various fruits and other treats and dip into the chocolate fondue. Yum!
INGREDIENTS
Place the cream in a pan over a medium heat and bring up to a simmer. Melt the chocolate in a large bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. When the cream is simmering, remove the pan from the heat, and add to the melted chocolate a third
at a time, making sure that the cream is thoroughly incorporated after each addition. Allow to cool slightly. Pour the chocolate mixture on to the lined tray and leave to stand at room temperature for 4 hours, then place in the fridge for 5-6 hours or until set. Scoop small balls of the chocolate ganache using a teaspoon then roll in cocoa powder before serving. You could also try rolling in chopped nuts or coconut for something a little different! WWW.BGPMAGAZINE.CO.UK // 73
MILLIONAIRE’S
SHORTBREAD INGREDIENTS
250g shortbread biscuits, crushed 55g melted butter 150g butter 150g dark brown soft sugar 397g can Condensed Milk 250g dark chocolate
METHOD
Combine the crushed biscuits and the melted butter, press into the tin. Chill for 20 mins. Heat the sugar and remaining butter in a non-stick pan gently, stirring, until melted. Add the condensed milk and bring to a rapid boil, stirring continuously. Cook for a minute or so or until thickened. Pour the caramel over the base. Cool, then chill until set. Melt the chocolate and then pour over the set caramel. Leave to cool again and then chill until set. Remove from the tin and cut into squares – dip your knife in hot water (then dry on kitchen towel) to make it easier to cut through the chocolate. Serve straight away or store in an airtight tin!
What’s coming up... from UK Plus Size Events BIG GIRLS PARADISE - www.biggirlsparadise.com BGP LONDON GREEK TOGA PARTY SPECIAL Saturday 11th April 2015 At The Slug & Lettuce, 5 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8AA Doors open 8.30pm – 2.30am | Tickets £12.50 before 10pm & £15 after BGP BIRMINGHAM Saturday 25th April 2015 At VIP Penthouse Suite, The Loft Lounge 143 Bromsgrove Street, Birmingham, B5 6RG Doors open 9pm – 3am | Tickets £10 on the door *FREE £2.50 DRINKS VOUCHER BEFORE 10PM* CURVY CONVENTION 2015 - www.curvyconvention.co.uk Saturday 16th May 2015 At St Mary’s Bryanston Square, Wyndham Place, York Street, London, W1H 1PQ Opening times: 11am – 9pm | Tickets £5
For more information on upcoming events, please visit www.ukplussizeevents.co.uk.
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