Who am I going to be Today?

Butcher, baker or even candlestick maker? Ok so maybes not but over the past couple of weeks I have been sharing on social media my business ideas etc. My friends that follow my personal Facebook account might think I have just about lost the plot! Each day I wake up and discuss with my Mam my ideas and she simply puts her hands in her head and just bites her tongue.

When I was growing up my favourite place was a craft store or a stationary shop, still to this day I have a pile of notebooks that I refuse to write in incase I mess them up!  The other day I looked through my notebooks and found a brand new filofax with 2013 diary inserts untouched!

Anyhow I am going off track (not like me at all!), as I was saying, my Mam always kept introducing me to different crafts and hobbies and I always thought that when I 'grew up' I would have a job doing something creative.

When I left school I had no idea about what I wanted to do or how I would get there. I studied Art & Design in six form, went on holiday in the summer and came back wanting to be a holiday rep or travel agent!!

After studying travel and tourism for 3 years I realised that (eventually) I wanted to do something more creative as a career. This is when I was introduced to graphic design.

I had an amazing tutor during my first two years, then once I started my degree things started to change for me. I wasn't enjoying the course and hearing about how most Graphic Designers work freelance  made me re-think my future. I had bills to pay and knew that I needed a steady, secure income for my future.

I was already working part time at this point in a local social club and in a office job and decided to take the offer of a permeant office job instead of continuing my studies any further.

I have created many blogs in the past and I simply was not committed and they sort of fizzled away until last September (it has been 8 months already!) I created Little Miss Plus Size.

This allowed me to do so many things, I was able to share with you my experience going through the worst part of my life, share my weight loss struggles, my beauty finds and about living a plus sized life. This gave me a place to be creative again, creating a logo, my website and not to mention developing my photography skills. 

This was one of my very first pictures I took for my blog and looking back my photography skills have improved, hopefully you agree!





 

As you can see my logo has changed over my time blogging and  in my opinion my skills have developed and changed over 8 months, and who knows it might even be completely different 8 months from now.

So blogging has helped channel my creativity and I have always accepted the fact that I would work a 9-5 (if you know me sometimes its more like 8-3!) and thats all I am good enough for, until now!

I have tried a little bit of social media management and really enjoyed it, until it made me want my own business! Now going from wanting to be a ballerina when I was young (yes you heard right, a ballerina!) to dabbling in art and design, travel and tourism & graphic design I in all honesty had no idea what I wanted to do, I think I texted my friend Jen a new business idea and plan every other day.

I have went from web design, bath bombs, jewellery design, fashion, you name it and I have thought about it.

If your a blogger, then you will understand how great it is trying to get the right photography to go with your blog posts, sometimes its even the accidental shots that are the best. I used to use a simple point and shoot for my blog photos but I am so excited to let you know that I am now a proud owner of a DSLR!

I have never had an expensive camera, and to be honest you do not need one to blog. I really wanted to get into photography a bit more and learn some new techniques. I have touched on photography in the past during my time studying but there are so many things I want to learn.

So your now wondering what has my DSLR got to do with my business idea! You know how passionate I am about my dog, Lulu and she is a huge part of my family (even though she is tiny!) so I had a brainwave, yes you guessed it, I am currently in the process of setting up a pet photography business!!

I am so excited and even have a few pictures up already on my Facebook page. Now I am not saying that if you buy a camera and have a pet that you can be a pet photographer (well technically you can!), it takes hard work, taking unique shots and capturing a animals personality. This is going to be a very long process as I plan on making it a hobby until I feel that I am able to take pictures that I would be proud to sell. At the moment I am in the process of setting up a website and arranging free photography sessions with clients.

I am also in the process of setting up a blog/website dedicated to my love of stationary and planners, I wanted to keep this separate from Little Miss Plus Size as I understand that if you are a regular reader interested in beauty and plus size fashion then this might not be for you.

So I am so looking forward to my two new projects and between them, Little Miss Plus Size and my job I should be quite busy!

People might laugh, might say that you can't and even pull you down, but let that be what drives you! We live in a world where we can be whatever we want to be! Nobody said its going to be easy but if you really want to do something then you can do it with hard work and dedication.

I know that this has been a long winded ramble but I just wanted to let you know what is currently happening and re-assure those of you that know me that I am not going mad!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

NUXE Reve de Miel Review!

For a long time I have heard other bloggers and Youtubers rave about Nuxe's Reve de Miel lip balm. So whilst I was shopping in Marks and Spencers a few months ago I noticed that they now sell Nuxe products and thought that it was about time I gave it a try.



For those of you who aren't away, this lip balm is very intense and known to heal the driest, most dehydrated lips! The smell is like terrys chocolate orange and is a little overpowering, however it is not to overpowering that I wouldn't use it.



I always seem to have chapped lips, be it winter or summer and try a range of different products to help keep them hydrated. Nothing has worked for me like this, I apply it in an evening before I go to bed and in the morning they are a lot softer, smoother and hydrated.



This is a really thick balm, that is why I tend to keep it for evenings, however if you want to use it all day everyday then there is nothing stopping you!

The balm itself contains honey and precious oils and lasts forever! Nuxe also do a stick version which I was tempted to pick up as well as I think that it may be better for during the day.

This pot is 15g and costs £9.50 so a little on the pricey side however worth the money if your standard everyday lip balm isn't working for you.

Have you tried this? What do you think?

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

Win a BBW Couture UK Retro Vintage Dress!

Over the weekend I reached 100 likes on my Facebook page. I also managed to reach 1000 twitter followers so I thought what better way to say thank you than to run a Facebook competition!

After being inspired by all the lovely summer dresses out there I thought that a dress would be the perfect prize for my giveaway. I am so pleased to say that the competition is to win a BBW Couture UK Retro Vintage dress!

[gallery link="none" columns="4" ids="1367,1368,1369,1370,1371,1372,1373,1374,1375,1376,1377"]

BBW Couture is a brand that I have recently been introduced to and they offer some great items at even better prices!

If you would like to enter then head on over to my Facebook page to find out all the details!

Once again thank you for your support I am absolutely loving blogging at the moment & Good luck!

Click here to find out more!

Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/littlemissplussize

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

 

My Top 10 Plus Size Floral Dresses in Stores Now!

If you know me, then you will know I very rarely, if ever where plain clothes, I always go for the patterned option when available. My favourite of all patterns has to be floral! It is so pretty and feminine so I thought I would share with you my top 10 plus size floral dresses that are currently available to buy in store now!



This black floral print skater dress is from New Look and costs £14.99, I love the cut of this dress, I actually have the same one in a different pattern and it is so nice to wear! I tend to go for dark backgrounds as usually they can be more flattering and I love the pinky/peach flowers to add a soft feminine touch!. The length is also great to, just on your knees!



I love this Navy Floral print dress from Yours Clothing, I honestly don't think the image does it justice! I saw this dress in store and it looks so pretty and would be great for any occasion! It also has a sheer panel at the top to add a bit of interest and help break up the pattern. I love it and being able to synch in the waist with the tie belt helps to draw the eye to the smallest part of your body! £35.00



Now this is a style I wouldn't normally go for as I do not really suit shirt/blouse style items but this reminds me of dresses I used to wear when I was younger and I think some of you lovely ladies might love this style! The pattern is very bold and I love the colours! This dress has fabric covered buttons and is by the brand Voodoo Vixen which is now available at Simply Be, this dress costs £64.99 which is on the pricey side but could be great for a special occasion or holidays!



I hope we get some nice weather in the UK this summer as this would be a perfect summer Maxi dress! I always think that patterns on a light background are instantly very holiday like. This would be great to pack in your suitcase! I love the vibrant pinks and greens in this pattern and what is even better, is that this is a tiered dress, which means the top half is flowing over the bottom which is a very flattering cut! This dress is available from Simply Be for £29.00!



This navy and coral cross over dress from BBW Couture is great as I think it suits all ages! It is not too bright yet not too faded! I also think that a cross over dress can be very flattering on a plus size woman! This dress also has just the right amount of material on the sleeves to cover the tops of your arms. I was very pleased to see this dress is only £19.99! 



This black floral strap scuba strap skater dress (a bit of a mouthful!) is right up my street! The pattern is bright and could possibly be worn all year round dressed up differently! I love the neckline on this dress and think that it is very flattering. Can anyone remember these dresses in the 90's in plain black? we used to wear them with white t-shirts underneath! This dress costs £24.99 from BBW Couture.



Wow! all I can say is wow! This gorgeous 1950's Vintage party dress will defiantly help you look amazing this summer! It has wider shoulders that take you to a cross over bust which is again very flattering. What I love about this dress is that it synchs you in at the waist and the is so flooaty and feminine, it makes you want to twirl like you used to when you were young! Not to mention the pattern! Floral, feminine and fun! £27.99 from BBW couture!



For those of you who like floral prints but are unsure then this dress from Scarlett and Jo would be great! You still have a gorgeous floral within the skirt but it is broken up by a very sophisticated top. The plain black top with mesh yoke looks so sophisticated and again synchs in your waist and leads to lovely flowing skirt! Defiantly a one for a event or special evening out! £65.00



This is another lovely dress from Scarlett & Jo, This prom dress is again great if your not into all over floral as the navy top with sweetheart neck line is so flattering with longer sleeves. It again synchs you in at the waist and has a amazing floral skirt. I love the bright turquoise and corals in this pattern! £65.00



This navy floral midi dress from Evans would be great for the summer! Firstly the patten is so fun and the colours are so warable! This dress is also layered so sits on the body very nicely and is very flattering. I love the crochet straps on this dress as it adds a bit of interest. In my opinion this dress could be dressed up or down! Was £30 now £20!

So thats my top 10 floral dresses which are available to buy now! If you like to find out more about these dresses then simply click on the images and it will take you to the store!

Which one is your favourite? If you enjoyed this post please let me know and I will be sure to do more!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

If you would like to win a BBW Couture UK Retro Vintage dress head to my Facebook page to find out how! 

https://www.facebook.com/littlemissplussize

Bomb Cosmetics Haul & Review!

A few weeks ago now I was shopping in my local shopping centre and came across Fizzylicious, a store which I should be banned from! I had just visited Lush earlier that day but I could not resist picking up a few treats whilst I was there!

Fizzylicious is a store that sells a wide range of products from candles to bath products and I was defiantly attracted to all the amazing bath goodies!

Their bath products are all made by Bomb Cosmetics which is a brand I haven't tried of or even heard about until now. Seeing as I love Lush so much I thought it was about time I gave them ago.

The first thing I was attracted to was the Bath Brûlées, a bath creamer. They contain Cocoa and Shea butter so they are very nourishing to the skin. You pop them in your bath and once you feel like the water is soft enough, you simply remove it and place it back into its case. These can last up to 6 baths!! They are priced from £3.49-£3.99





Whilst I was there I picked up Cherry Aid, it looks like a real cupcake with a huge cherry on the top! This has got to be one of my favourites, it smells so sweet and contains pure Bergamot & Chamomile essential oils so its great for a nice bath time treat!



I also picked up Fairy Ring, for some reason this reminded me of Alice in Wonderland! It is adorable, again it looks like a cupcake but has these adorable little toad stools! Fairy Ring contains Lavender and May Chang essential oils, still smells sweet but not overpowering!

Looking at the Brûlées I noticed these delicious donut looking fizzes and found out that these are actually  Whoopee Blasters! A Whoopee Blaster is a bath bomb with a butter filling! So you can enjoy watching it fizz away but then the butter in the middle helps to nourish your skin whilst in the bath! They cost £2.99 and really are worth the money!





Of course I had to pick up Knickerbocker Glory! It simply looks like a iced donut with hundreds and thousands on it (eating healthy and I can still enjoy treats without the guilt!). The smell is amazing! It contains pure amyris and thyme essential oils and has a scent of ice-cream and soda with Wild fruit and red berry notes!

Of course, being me I couldn't just stop there! I noticed some really small, what I thought were bath fizzers, but they were actually Bath Mallows, a bath melt. You place these into your bath and they slowly melt away leaving your bath full of goodness and essential oils to help soften and moisturise your skin! They cost £2.99 each.



The first one I picked up was Berry Love, again it looks like a cupcake but has a very fresh berry scent and contains pure Clary Sage and Bergamot essential oils. I have not tried this one yet but it is waiting in my bathroom to be used!



Out of all of these products this has to be my favourite scent, I am so sad because I cannot find the name of this one! It looks like an ice cream cornet with a flake and sprinkles! The smell on this one is so clean and delicate. If you know me and know my taste in fragrance then this is a very me scent (I know that this will not help you in the slightest!). Do you know the name of this mallow?



I also picked up Fly Away Home, simply for the cuteness factor! This is so adorable with a little ladybird and green leaf! This one contains pure Geranium & Chamomile essential oils to calm your skin and also has Cocoa and Shea Butter to help nourish. The scent is very mild and has a hint of strawberry to it!



Finally, whilst I was looking around I noticed that they also sold body butters, scrubs salts & lotions in tubs. Now the tubs are a lot  more pricey (£7.99) and a gamble as if you have never used them before you have to invest in a tub of it. The one which caught my eye the most was Ocean of Bliss, a bath powder that you sprinkle in the bath and it dissolves away. This to me smells like the ocean in a tub! One thing I will say is that it has a very masculine smell to it so it could be great for both men and women. I enjoy using this after a exercise class because it feels like it helps soothe my aching muscles!

I will always be a true Lush fan but now I am so pleased to have found Bomb Cosmetics, I only wish they'd do bubble bars!

Have you tried anything from Bomb Cosmetics? Which is your favourite? I am always around on Facebook if you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, views etc with other readers!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy

 

 

 

 

 

A Plus Sized Inspiration: A exclusive Interview with Georgina Grogan!!

I am still relatively new to the blogging industry and when I first created Little Miss Plus Size it took a while to get my blog/brand out there. I first found Georgina Grogan on twitter and fell in love with her blog She Might Be Loved!

The thing that stood out and shocked me the most was how a blogger with such a huge following was interacting and chatting to 'normal' people as you may find bloggers who are well established tend to not have the time to respond to everyone!

So right from the start of my blogging journey I have been a huge fan and very inspired by Georgina and the work that she does so I thought who better to ask for advice and find out a little more about this down to earth blogger, and guess what? she actually said yes!!!

I hope you enjoy reading this post as much as I enjoyed creating it and I will now hand you over to the lovely Georgina Grogan, creator of She Might Be Loved!

What inspired you to create 'She Might Be Loved' and begin blogging? (i know this is explained in your 'About me' page but thought that it would be a good introduction.

I couldn't decide if University was for me or not, so whilst working in Retail, I decided to defer my application and just save money/find myself. It was actually a combination of a customer encouraging me to start, being compared to a blogger in looks and being at an all time low, where I decided I needed to do something for a release. So I started blogger. I called it 'She Might Be Loved' after the Maroon 5 song 'She Will Be Loved', back then I was really down about my life with a sick sense of humour, so I thought it would be funny to have a pessimistic name. It means a lot now as I love my life and I feel very loved, so it's a reminder to me that things will always get better.

Being nominated for blog awards is such an achievement, what was it like when you won 'Best Fashion Blog' at the Plus Size Awards 2014?

The Plus Size Awards are something I had no idea existed, until I found out that enough people had nominated me to be short listed! I didn't think I had won at first as they said 'Georgina Grogan' rather than 'She Might Be Loved', so I kind of just sat there, then jumped up almost crying. It was rather overwhelming and I forgot to thank my mum in my speech which I really wanted to do, but as I didn't think I would win, I didn't really prepare.... I couldn't even take a selfie afterwards as I was shaking that much!

What would you say to somebody sitting at home reading this post who is thinking about blogging but unsure of where to start?

Pick any old name and just start writing. I really wish I would have started sooner as it has made me so happy and now it's my actual job. I can't recommend writing enough, it's so therapeutic and rewarding to yourself to publish your work and be able to have that outlet.

I understand that you created 'She Might Be Loved' in June 2013, how has your life changed since then?

Well I was unhappy, borderline depressed (as I could never pick myself up to go get actually diagnosed) and I hated my life and 99.9% of people in it. Now I'm a Social Media Manager working for myself, a Full-Time Blogger and I have never had so many loving, caring people around me. I'm finally happy.

Personally I am very new to the blogging world and will and still do make mistakes, did you make any mistakes and how did you overcome them?

It's hard to determine what mistakes are with bloggers as it's your own website and you can do as you please. I mean, I make spelling mistakes, I'm human. I've had a couple dodgy brand collaborations and worked for a lot less than I am worth. But mistakes with blogging only make you learn faster and you don't make them twice. Blogging is still very new and although most of us have tutorials on just about everything, it's whatever works for you and not what people tell you will work.

Can you remember your very first blogger event? If so what was it like?

It was the House of Fraser Fashion event in Leeds and my Mum and Dad drove me down. I ended up standing 20 minutes on my own as I didn't realise the bloggers were already sat down and as soon as I walked over, I have never felt more comfortable. The Leeds bloggers are now some of my dearest and nearest friends who I am so grateful for. They took me right under their wing and it was one of the best events ever, because they didn't care how knew I was or that they hadn't met me before, it was amazing. I even had another blogger come over and tell me how much she loves me blog, which was obviously surreal at your first event as you don't think anyone would recognise you at all! The Leeds bloggers even all started talking to my parent's and since then, my Mum and Dad have come to a lot of events if they have been there, simply to catch up and hang out! Bloggers are amazing.

I have really been enjoying your posts about getting into the gym and living a healthy lifestyle, what has been the best and worst thing about being a plus size lady attending a gym? I know for me it was feeling comfortable in gym wear.

I will point out that I was in a car accident and started going to the gym solely to help my back get better, and not to lose weight, otherwise I sound like a walking contradiction. I never wanted to lose weight at all, I actually cried when I dropped a size as I have lots of frumpy clothes now!
The best part was definitely the stress release, I used to laugh at people when they said exercising made them happy, but I genuinely felt amazing afterwards. I'm a very competitive person so beating silly little goals or peddling faster than perfectly healthy friend was rather a good feeling too as it meant that I was getting better and that my back was healing.
Unfortunately, being competitive also comes with overdoing it completely and I ended up unable to move much for quite a while, so I've had to take a step back. Definitely the worst part and I miss it. I am planning on slowly starting back up when I'm back from Rome though.
Gym clothes aren't amazing but I got mine from State of Mind and they make me feel super comfy and not to out of place as I LIVE in dresses/skirts.

Throughout my blog I have a few Lush hauls, what was it like working at Lush? Were you ever tempted to put all your wages back into the till and splurge?

Lush on the outside is an amazing place to work as everyone is so happy and friendly, but it's actually one of the hardest jobs in retail as the level of everything you do has to be outstanding. It definitely taught me a lot of life lessons, but mainly that I can't work for other people or constantly have to run everything I want to do by someone. I much prefer working for myself as I'm still half that bitch boss everyone works, but I always praise myself after a good job or new client with shopping treats! I spent A LOT whilst I worked there, mainly for the massive 50% off discount which made everything affordable. Now I don't, the only things I buy are perfume and bath bombs because they are my favourites and necessary. Although, if you're around London, go to the new Oxford Street store because it is magical. I worked at Lush for two years and had some amazing times, but going to that store as a customer and having the 'Lush Experience' was the BEST.

What would be your three top desert island products for hair, skincare and makeup?

Hair - Crazy Colour Vermillion Red, my favourite hair dye ever for red.
Skincare - Lush's Ultrabland, I'll always go back for it for a consistently good cream cleanser.
Makeup - MAC DIVA. I always wear it because it is amazing.

Have you found the secret to a flawless base and what would be your tips for maintaining it throughout the day?

Sometimes I think I have and then another day it doesn't work again.
My latest discovery was Urban Decay's Setting Spray but then some days that makes me melt.
Younique (I know everyone hates them, but this is actually good) keeps my makeup on amazingly.
I just have that type of skin where my makeup doesn't wear off throughout the day, it just comes dry and patchy despite looking oily?
Personally, I think mixing things up help and when it looks like your base needs to come off after hours of wear, just take it off and reapply!

Recently brands have listened more to plus size women when it comes to fashion, do you think the blogging industry has influenced this in anyway?

Without a doubt! People are turning to bloggers now more than magazines, everyone knows that and it's amazing. Bloggers show what clothes look like on an actual plus size women as opposed to a 10 with padding like in the magazines. We tell you what works, what doesn't, wear to shop for quality, do you need to size up or down, we cover it all and we do it in a body positive way. Brands have us in for focus groups, collaborations and so much more all the time now as they want to know what we and our audiences want.

I recently shared my blog with friends and family and honestly, it was one of the scariest things I have ever done. Luckily all the feedback has been positive and the support has been great. What do your friends and family think about blogging as a career and what was their reaction to your blog?

Everyone knows about it, they didn't at first but now my friends and family are some of my most loyal readers and have probably seen every single post. They tell their friends about it, link to me, ask me for advice, hand out my blog cards and even get me business sometimes. It's amazing when you can share with your family as often they'll be so proud and tell even more people. It's amazing!

Can I just say you rock a bold lip, whats your secret to making sure it stays in place?

Foundation over the lips, add MAC Diva, go around the lips with foundation to neaten and then apply powder. Ideally powder helps it set but it can get messy, I just neaten and reapply when needed!

How did you begin working in social media & what would your advice be for someone wanting to go down that career path?

I was emailing companies to ask if they wanted to get involved with the blogger event I was planning and I got a reply saying the company wasn't ready because it's still starting up, but did I know anyone interested in a small social media job. I obviously said me as I was working severely part time and had so much free time, I got the job on my interview as I was far too enthusiastic and did a full evaluation and plan! I still work for them now and from that, I set up myself and now have several clients!
I basically taught myself everything from building my accounts, reading and seeing how companies run theirs.
I didn't really have the choice whether or not to start working for myself as after my car accident, I was unable to keep working at Lush as I couldn't lift or be stood up for long, it was too much. So I took a leap of faith and instead of being off sick for months on barely anything, I tried to get more clients and I've never looked back.
Ideally I would say it's best to have some knowledge behind you and would recommend offering your services to a charity to work on techniques and methods to get your posts seen more. Here you then have a portfolio to pitch to others, especially if it does well as they'll be raving about you. This would be amazing to show companies you're applying to or if you want to go freelance. Financially, I had nothing when I started working for myself, last month's wages were gone and I wasn't sure I would get sick pay at all because of my contract, so it was really risky. Thankfully, I've come out on the better side but I would definitely say to save up and have a safety blanket!

When I was growing up there weren't any plus size models or even role models. How do you feel that for young (and more mature) women you are a role model?

It's absolutely incredible. I get a tad teary whenever anyone says that to me as I find it hard to believe, but when people have explained, it makes sense. Seeing someone of my size talking about their weight in a positive light and always be supportive to other women of all sizes, helps people. It helps them to see that if I'm happy with my size 20 body, they can be happy with theirs too. I really hope I can reach more women in this way as I really didn't realise my impact at all and it's a wonderful thought.

Have you always been so body confident growing up?

Yes and no. I never fully hated myself as I always thought I was good looking and had an amazingly sarcastic and friendly personality but there have been times that enough people have told me not to like how I look, so I didn't. I would talk of diets, but slowly and overtime I have got to the point that no matter what size I am, I will be happy with myself because I love myself. I will admit it got a lot better in College when people were old enough to not comment on weight anymore because it's ridiculous. But also finding myself, my style and clothes that I look and feel amazing in really helped. I'll still have days where I might not feel amazing, but I'll always love the way I look because it's me.

What advice would you give to young girl?

Put down the magazine and go read blogs instead. They are far more body positive and you'll learn a lot more about hair, beauty and fashion through people who are writing about it over love and not because they've been paid to feature a product.
If you're insecure about your weight, go read a plus size blog and watch them wear bikinis without a care in the world even thought everyone tells them they won't suit them. It's amazing to have positive role models, and magazines aren't the place to find them.

Red hair?

Colour Wow and Revlon 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner are my all time favourites for keeping the colour in. Simply don't wash it too much, check the ingredients on what you do use and never steaming hot water!

I hope you are as inspired as I am by Georgina! If you do not already, you can follow Georgina over on twitter and Facebook and let her know your thoughts on the interview and please say Hi from me too!

This is a bit of a different type of post for me so please let me know what you think and whether you would like to see more posts like this. I am always available over on Facebook if you would like to find out more!

I would just like to end this post by saying a massive thank you to Georgina Grogan, She Might Be Loved! You have certainly gave me and my readers some great tips and an insight into your life and career!

Where to find Georgina?

Facebook-She Might Be Loved 

Twitter-She Might Be Loved 

Blog-http://www.shemightbeloved.com

Thanks for Reading!!

Tracy xx

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/littlemissplussize

Is It Wrong For A Plus Size Blogger To Want To Lose Weight?

For as long as I can remember I have always been bigger than the average person, all the way through my childhood I was the biggest girl in school and the same continued through my adult life. Although I was a big person I was still fit and healthy. Now I know that some of you will be reading this thinking that, thats impossible, Its not and it wasn't.

I was always on the move, juggling two jobs and college as well as exercise classes and walking daily. I was a plus size girl who was happy, healthy and unstoppable! If anyone said that my weight would hold me back in life I would completely disagree!

Back then I was about a size 20-22, still a large person but I was still able to do everything in my day to day life plus more! As the years went on, I settled in one job, I started driving and made less time to be active so my weight slowly increased and my fitness levels started to decrease.

I would say that over the last three years I have been at my biggest and living with depression only made it harder to lose weight or feel like being more active.

I came up with the name of my blog because I have always been a plus size woman and thought the irony or including 'little' in the name suited me and my humour.

Now why would someone be a plus size blogger and want to lose weight? Surely that defeats the object, right? Actually no it doesn't. Although the plus size industry is a lot more accepted today and there is a industry targeted towards us, plus size clothing generally starts at a size 14!

At the moment I find clothes shopping daunting and until a few weeks ago my physical fitness levels were shocking! Am I contradicting myself, wanting to blog about my life as a plus size lady who is still working on my body and weight? No!

Health and mindset are key to being happy in your body shape whatever your size. You could be a size 16 or 32 and still love your curves and your body and why not! I am 100% for promoting happy healthy plus size woman, who wouldn't? But I do feel that there is a difference between being a woman who owns her own body and size to a woman who is trapped by her own body and size.

A blogger in particular who is a girl after my own heart is Georgina Grogan, an amazing plus size blogger who owns it! being plus size has never stopped her from wearing the latest trends and showing the world that woman of a plus size can still look amazing too! (Watch this space for a very special interview post coming soon!)

So at the moment I am eating clean as possible and exercising between 3-4 times a week in order to change my life around and live a happy, healthy life in the future.

Yes my main goal is to lose weight as it has a huge impact on my health but do i strive to be a size 10? No absolutely not, I know that it has more to do with how healthy you are compared to what the scales say. Would I ever want to be a size 10? Yes if that is the result of changing my lifestyle. Do I think I would be happy at a size 22-24? Of course! Size is a number, as long as your fit and healthy that is all that truly matters!

I have recently joined Instagram and Facebook and looking at all the amazing pictures and pages within the plus size community just makes me so happy, when I was growing up there was no such thing so knowing that there are amazing inspirational woman as role models is a huge change in times.

If you would like me to share my recipes and my journey into fitness please let me know in the comments below. I know that the thought of going to a boxercise class was very daunting but I did it! So if I can then anyone can!

My name is Tracy, Little Miss Plus Size and I 100% support happy, healthy plus size women!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

Get Lost Cancer! Race For Life 5k 2015!

Throughout my adult life I have seen the effects of cancer and how it effects the people & there families.

When I was 18 I lost both my Nanna & Granda to cancer and it is such a terrible thing to watch your loved ones go through.

Last year my auntie was diagnosed with cancer but I am pleased to say that after receiving treatment she is now all clear and on the mend.

Unfortunately we will all be affected by cancer, we know loved ones we have lost and also people close to us who are currently effected.

If you have read my previous blog posts then you will be aware that lately I have struggled with simple things like walking! For the past 5 weeks I have been trying to turn my lifestyle around and adopt some healthy eating habits as well as regular exercise and I am loving it! Yes I have good and bad days but the main thing is that I am improving day by day.

Last year I took part in Race for Life and it was a struggle at times, If I never had two amazing friends by my side I honestly don't think I would have made it!

The day of the race is very emotional, so many people have there own stories and their own personal reasons for taking part. I was one of the very last group of people around the course and once I got to the end I cried! I made it! If I can do it then absolutely anybody can!

So this year I aim to do better than last year but just taking part is good enough for me. I have just over 8 weeks before the event so I am hoping to continue my exercise and healthy eating so I will be prepared for the day.

I currently use my Fitbit Charge to track my steps, distance, calories and sleep so if you are a fitbit user feel free to add me as a friend, Tracy Hewison!

I would love your support in anyway possible, either by sponsoring me over on my Just Giving page or by simply spreading the word by liking and sharing on social media!

Just Giving Page : https://www.justgiving.com/tracyhewison5

If your sitting reading this and think that it is something you want to do but don't think your able, do it! If I can then so can you and I am sure you will have a great day to! Lets do our part and help fight cancer and find a cure!

Are you taking part this year? Let me know your tips and techniques for the big day!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

 

The Most Important Thing Your Body Needs!

Anyone who knows me will tell you that all I ever previously would drink would be Pepsi Max, a drink with no calories, no sugar and a whole lot of chemicals!

Now the odd can or glass is fine but I honestly used to drink over 2 litres a day! Yes thats right, I never really drank much tea or coffee never mind water!

I am currently being re-educated when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle and my biggest change so far is that I have quit the Pepsi Max and fizzy drinks and replaced it with the most important thing your body needs, water!

At first I found it extremely hard as I was trying to break a habit and I was craving the caffeine I was missing from Pepsi Max. I have been off Pepsi Max and on water for four weeks now and I am seeing huge benefits from it.

The biggest change for me is my skin! I love trying new skincare and finding a skincare regime that works for me. If you read any of my previous skincare related posts you will hear me talk about my dry flaky patches on my nose, guess what, they have gone now! I strongly believe that this is down to me drinking around 2-3 litres of water a day! My skin must have been so in need of hydration and by drinking water my skin has re-balanced! It is also looking a lot clearer too.Drinking water and healthy/clean eating is a huge factor.

Switching from a fizzy drink to water immediately makes you feel less bloated and even though your weight may have not changed you feel slimmer and less bogged down, now this may come instantly or take a little longer. For me being extremely overweight I felt and noticed a difference instantly in how it made me feel.

Water is great for boosting your metabolism as it makes you feel full which in turn stops you over eating. I have found that having a glass of water or even a drink of water before each meal really helps as it allows you to stop eating when you are full.

If your dehydrated and feeling a little tired or down, try having a glass of water! Water helps the blood carry oxygen to the cells in our body which in turn re-hydrates us and picks us up, obviously your not going to be bouncing around but it does pick you up.

Did you know that drinking water helps prevent muscle cramping and lubricates joints in the body? If you do exercise regular make sure you keep hydrated, if you keep hydrated you will be able to exercise longer and stronger without cramping.

And finally, water is great for digestion! It helps dissolve waste particles and pass them smoothly through your digestive tract which helps flush and detox your body and do what it needs to do!

I know your reading this thinking water isn't that great! It is! Along with healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle it is essential to maintaining or creating a healthy body and mind inside and out!

I am not saying drink water and only water, but try to add it into your current lifestyle, any amount you drink is better than none!

Do you already drink a lot of water? Have you seen any benefits?



If you are getting a little board of plain water why not try adding lemon or lime slices, cucumber also works really well to!

Did you know I am now on Facebook? If you would like to visit and like my page it would mean a lot! https://www.facebook.com/littlemissplussize

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

OOTW: Bank Holiday Look ft A Kimono!

I love Kimonos! Never actually worn one but love the idea of a 'fashionable' cover up besides plan black cardigans and jackets. I also love how it is a fashion that suits all ages and sizes! (even my Nanna is into the trend!)

With the next bank holiday creeping up I thought what better time to share an outfit that I think would be great for a bank holiday spent out having a few drinks through the day time, but could also see you through to the evening when people tend to be a little more put together.

I first saw this Floral Fringed Kimono a while ago and loved it! If you know me then you will know that I love florals! Especially on a dark background. What I like most about this is that it is not too in your face and could be worn both in the spring, summer and autumn and the fringing just adds something extra (would also be great for festivals!).

This Kimono is from Simply Be and costs £25 which is very reasonable!

You could quite easily just put a plain black cami under the Kimono, but I love this Nude (website says bright pink!) strappy back layered one from New Look Inspire rangeand costs £14.99!

I love cigarette style trousers as they always look very smart but when I seen that New Looks Inspire range had these Black Zip Front Slim Leg Trousers for £19.99, I thought they looked just as nice. If you wanted you could tuck the front of the cami into the trousers to show off the lovely gold hardware!

I always go for black shoes, I think that they look smarter but thats just my personal taste! I love these Sole Diva Platform Sandals from Simply Be and they are available in Black and nude, even better!

For all the more fashionable ladies out there I thought I would choose to show the nude option, they are also available in wide fitting so comfy feet on the dance floor! £35.00.

When I go out (if I go out!) I am know for carrying a 'big' little bag as I take everything with me (sometimes you can't be too prepared!)

So when I seen this Black Textured Cross Body Bag from River Island I thought that it would be perfect because although it is small you could still fit a lot of items in it! It can be carried as a clutch or worn over the shoulder to be hands free! I love River Island bags, they can be expensive at £20.00 but they do last!

Finally I thought that this Long Chain Necklace from TopShop gave the outfit an effortless look as it is very simple but pulls the outfit together, quite handy for £12.50!

So that is my Bank holiday look featuring a Kimono, what will you be wearing the next bank holiday? Which is your favourite item shown above?

I just want to say a huge thank you for all the support for my last post, I was overwhelmed by friends, family and readers responses!

If you could please like my Facebook Page and share that would be great as it is a new page and I am updating regularly!

Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/littlemissplussize?ref=hl

Thanks for Reading!

Tracy xx

 

What doesn't Kill you makes you stronger!

Growing up I was always the biggest girl in school and also one of the shiest. I always had a good group of friends around me so I was a happy person but I was never one to be interested in boys or relationships etc and instead I focused on my studies and spending time with my friends.

As I got older my friends started settling down into relationships and in some cases started a family and even got married. I was so happy for them but all I could think about was when would it be my turn?

Being a big girl I had confidence as a person but never when it came to the opposite sex. I was 23 when I had my first 'real' relationship which was great and I was the happiest I thought Id ever be, I was more confident, felt like I was worth something and could relate to my friends now when they would talk about relationship issues etc.

Unfortunately that relationship ended after a year or so and I felt lost, I was so used to having someone that loved me in contact with me everyday and missed going on dates etc.

Rather than take a step back to focus on myself as a person, I immediately felt the need to be in a relationship again and to be honest it didn't matter to me who it was with, as long as they wanted me! (sad I know!)

This put me in a vulnerable position but I didn't see it at the time. I met a man like no other. He was everything I was looking for in a man, funny, smart and most of all interested in me!

The 'relationship' lasted just over 3 years and the amount of lies etc that came with it was literally unbelievable but I thought that nobody else would be interested in me so I just put up with it.

As a  woman of a certain size, he started to make me feel like nobody would be interested, that I was a laughing stock and he was the only man that would be interested. I believed it all!

Over the three year period there were threats of suicide, fake messages from his 'family' and he even faked having cancer! These were just to name a few!

This man spent the first year we were going out building me up just so he could pull me down, lower than I had ever been before.

For three years I believed all the lies and stood by him, March 3rd 2014 (my birthday) I found out that he had a fiancé and they were due to be married at the end of March that year. I was devastated and couldn't quite believe it!

The wedding went ahead along with the Caribbean honeymoon! Once he returned he wanted to be friends, yes friends!

Over the three years I stopped socialising with friends, stopped going shopping etc I felt so embarrassed about my size and the way I looked and knowing that everything had been a lie made everything worse which then triggered my depression.

I put up with it all just to feel 'normal' and feel loved. This post isn't about blaming anyone or bashing my ex, I simply want to share my story and tell you that NOBODY should be made to feel worthless or ashamed of themselves in order to be in a relationship.

There are some great men out there who will love you for you! (as cliche as that sounds its true!) A relationship is meant to make each other shine and be at their best, not to bring each other down.

I was no angel myself and now that I am in a better place I am thankful of the experience as I know feel like I have grown so much as a person and would much rather work on being a happy, more content person than be in a wrong relationship. If I meet Mr Right on the way then thats a bonus but a man does not validate you as a person.

What happened to my ex? He is happily married and his wife is oblivious to it all and that is the way it will stay. I have been hurt like I never thought possible and would never wish that on anyone. My theory is that leopards don't change their spots and Karma will play its part.

Woman of all shapes and sizes deserve to be happy, don't let anyone tell you anything different! Only you can let someone effect your happiness in life and you are worth so much more!

Its true what they say, right? What doesn't kill you makes you stronger and thanks to a few good friends and Little Miss Plus Size I am getting stronger day by day!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx

 

 

 

Winners Announced!!

Origins Face Mask Review!

Over the years I have read many blogs and watched loads of Youtubers rave about Origins, the skincare brand so I thought that it was about time to give them a go to see what all the fuss was about.

Origins offer a wide range of products ranging from bath & body to make-up, and one thing I am a little obsessed with is skincare so I thought why not start there!

Personally I always think that if a brand offers face masks, then that is the best place to start to get a feel of the brand as generally they show results quicker than maybes a moisturiser or spot treatment and who doesn't enjoy a pamper now and again!

Origins offer a wide range of face masks to try but back in December when I saw a trio of there most popular masks I thought it was a perfect opportunity to give them a go!

The three masks are Drink Up-Intensive overnight mask, Clear Improvements active charcoal mask & Out of Trouble 10 minute mask.



My skin tends to be quite dry over my nose area and a little oily everywhere else so I was intrigued to try their Drink Up-Intensive overnight mask as I thought it might have been too rich for my skin.



The mask itself  is quite a rich texture and once applied your skin immediately feels nourished. It does take time to fully sink into the skin but seeing as this mask is an overnight treatment by the morning your simply left with plump hydrated skin with no oily residue.

This mask has a hint of a peach fragrance but defiantly not overpowering and is actually very subtle. You are advised to use this mask twice weekly however I just find that using it when my skin is feeling dry or tight is enough for me personally.



At £23 for 100mls it is a little on the pricey side however if you do suffer with dry skin I would defiantly give this a go!



This next mask has got to be my favourite! Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask, although I am in my late twenties I still suffer with acne! Over the past few months I have seen an incredible difference to my skin due to my dietary changes and also drinking more water, yet I still have acne even though it is not as drastic as before I still like to use products that are designed to help clear your skin.



This clear improvements mask is lovely to use, it is a thick dark grey clay that you apply to either your whole face or just the area that you have the most open pores and blemishes. I don't know about you but there is something very satisfying about applying a mask that then sets to a dry clay.

You apply this mask either all over or on your problem areas, wait until the clay fully drys or sets on your face and then remove with a cloth/sponge and warm water. The charcoal in this mask acts like a magnet and draws out all the impurities in your pores. I personally love this mask and love the application, what I will say is that if your skin is on the drier side then follow with a very good moisturiser as when the mask does draw out impurities it can leave your skin drier and if you already have dry skin then a good moisturiser would defiantly be good to follow on with.



Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask costs £23 for 100mls or £12 for 50mls. Me personally, I think it is worth the money and out of all three face masks this would be my favourite that I would re-purchase again and again. If your unsure but still want to try it then the 50ml size would be great as this tube has lasted me ages as a little goes a long way!



Finally the last of the three masks I have tried is Origins Out of Trouble 10 minute mask, this is a great mask if you feel like your skin needs help to maintain a clear healthy look and make sure that your skin is rid of anything that could potentially cause an outburst on your your face.



This mask contains amazing ingredients such as Zinc Oxide, sulphur and Camphor which help to sink into the skin and also calm troublesome areas. This mask helps to get rid of the oil/shine on your skin as well as removing dead skin cells and anything that could cause a potential breakout.

I tend to use this mask once a week and find that it works great in my skincare regime alongside the charcoal mask as they both help to fight against any potential impurities.

You simply apply the cream to your face and neck and as the name suggests you leave it on for ten minutes. This is an very thick mask and stays white on the skin until rubbed in.



This mask costs £23 for 100mls and if you don't have any major issues with problematic skin but want to help prevent problems occurring then this is a great mask to try.

Have you tried any Origin products, if so what do you recommend I try? Have you tried any of these masks, if so what is your favourite?

I hope that this has gave you a little more information on these products and would love to know your thoughts!

If you haven't already please Like and share my Facebook page Little Miss Plus Size

https://www.facebook.com/littlemissplussize?ref=hl

and follow me on Instagram at little0miss0plus0size

https://instagram.com/little0miss0plus0size/

I would really appreciate it!

Thanks for Reading

Tracy xx