Closet Staple

If you’ve not got a kaftan in your summer wardrobe yet, then what have you been doing? Easy to pack, easy to style and easy to wear. A Kaftan is timeless and the silhouette is just classic, take a look through our collection of plus size kaftans.
Even if you’re not going away for your holidays this year it’s an effortless yet elegant cover over.
Day in the garden? Something like the Paradise Kaftan to keep your shoulders from burning but making you still feel cool and comfortable.
Quick trip out? Your kaftan can make a simple vest and shorts into a full fabulous outfit. Plus we know what English weather is like so an extra later to keep off that breeze is a must, but just because you’re a little chilly doesn’t mean you can’t still look great!

My Lovely Lady Lumps

Now kaftans always have a similar style & silhouette, the thing that makes them unique is their diverse patterns, fabrics & colours. So something that’s floaty, free really is perfect for ANY kind of shape and size. Any insecurities you’d like to hide a kaftan won’t hug to those bumps, bigger busted? No problem! Kaftans are very flattering in highlighting your features without being over revealing.
Want something that covers your hips but insinuates your waist, perfect! Try the Mamma Mia Kaftan with the drawstring middle to sculpt your shape.

Let’s go to the beach!

Probably the most popular place to wear a kaftan is…? The beach obviously! Take your beachwear up a level. Especially with Kaftans like the Alhambra featuring graceful broderie detail to really make your outfit pop. The lightweight materials will keep you staying cool while you get some sand between your toes. Paired with a pair on LJ’s Sunnies and you’re ready to go for a chilled out day on a sun lounger. Now we do fully believe that all bodies are beautiful and it doesn’t matter your size, shape ect, ect, but we know people get self conscious about some things, there’s always that little bit of yourself you’d rather hide away from others and being at the beach in your swimming cozzie brings out a lot of those insecurities. Throwing a kaftan on eliminates so much of that so your day isn’t spoiled.

Ready to hit the streets

When you are on holiday it’s not uncommon to spend most of the day on the beach or by a pool then wanting to go out for the evening. You don’t need to fill your luggage up with hundreds of different outfit options or even then waste hours getting ready. Kaftans are stylish, trendy and can definitely be dressed up!
Slip on a pair of wedges or even nice sliders, add a bit of jewellery, like a chunky and bold coloured necklace to really set the outfit off or some bangles for simple boho vibe: And you are ready to hit the town!
If you really want something special though there are those more luxury kaftans which are a whole different level of fabulous! A true glam going out style while still staying chilled on an evening.
The Wild at heart really is named well as the bold print is fun yet elegant, featuring a sequined detail and can be worn as a dress or tunic. A truly unique piece to make a statement, a perfect piece for a cruise that will surely make heads turn

So if you didn’t know about Kaftans before, you do now! A sure thing for any ladies summer wardrobe & suitcase. Make a statement, feel comfortable and most of all be happy and confident this summer!

There’s just something about the summer isn’t there?

Long nights, warm sunny days, and the promise of more outdoor events on the horizon. Surely these things alone make summer one of the most elite seasons of the year!

If you’re a curvy or plus size girl looking to embrace all the summer has to offer, then do it in style and comfort with our top tips on how to dress for summer when you’re plus size.

1. Dress for your shape

If you hadn’t realised by now, all our bodies are beautifully unique. The wonderful shapes and sizes they come in are as diverse as any species. So, the first thing to decide on is what shape you are. Consider your height, where your curves lay and what are your best assets. Then work from that. So for example, if your blessed with a good bust but prefer to hide your legs, then go for a wrap over dress that will maximise your cleavage but cover the rest of you.

If you don’t like the way your belly hangs, then ensure it’s covered with a plus size top that’s long enough. If in doubt, a dipped hem shape or high low design are flattering for most figures.

2. Wear it your way

Focusing on your shape again, choose pieces that will flatter you. An open jacket or blazer can work amazingly to shape your torso and looks great in both casual and smart environments.

If you’re wearing vest and shorts but the British weather turns, an open jacket can not only be practical but give you an extra layer of confidence.

Anything that pulls in your shape is also a winner for summer. You can find adjustable tie belts on many of our items including wrap dresses, jumpsuits and tops. Pull them in at just the right place and make the most of your beautiful shape.

3. If in doubt, choose stretch

Our best selling pieces in store are always the ones that offer some kind of stretch. With a stretchy fabric you can be sure of maximum comfort at all times. It also means that if your weight fluctuates, your outfit will still fit.

Anything in our ‘magic’ collection will offer an incredible 5 way stretch – we stock a fantastic amount of magic shorts and magic trousers in this range and once you’ve tried a pair, we’re certain you won’t look back.

4. Choose colours wisely

If you’ve spent time working out what shape you are, it’s also important to decide on what colours work best with your skin tone. The right kind of colouring can really make an outfit go from zero to hero. The best way to do this is to simply try on some of your favourite colours and see what looks best. Ask a friend to help, or if you don’t want to do that, LJ’s has a friendly online community where ladies share their fashion photos in order to get advice from each other. You can find the LJ’s VIP Facebook group here.

5. Accessorize

Once you’ve chosen your outfit now look at the accessories. If you’ve gone for a plain colour look then why not make it POP with a statement accessory? A vivid handbag, hat or piece of jewellery can make the look your own. Here at LJ’s we’re fans of chunky necklaces – they help centralise the eyes and make you look slimmer. How amazing is that!?

It’s also important to choose the right pair of shoes, invest in a good pair that will work with various outfits and you’re on to a winner. After all, the saying is “she looked great from head to toe….”

Comfortable Fashion

There is nothing more important in fashion than being comfortable with what you’re wearing (In our opinion, anyway). There’s nothing worse than putting on your outfit, and it’s tight or itchy or hugging all the wrong places.

If you’re not already familiar with them, you should be. Shirt dresses are not only a comfortable option, it’s also stylish and easy to dress up or down.

Button It!

Obviously, wearing a shirt, you can have it buttoned up; this makes for more of a smart-styled outfit. Shirt dresses like the Fleur have properly cuffed long sleeves and a collar, also a flattering high-low shape so you’ll be fully covered at the back but still showing a little leg, so it’s elegant and dressy for a night out. Add on a little LJ’s Glow just to really show off your legs for a night on the town, and if you want to add a little extra shape, you can easily add a belt to accentuate your waist!

For a more casual look, check out the Afrika with rolled-back sleeves and a fun animal print; add a pair of trainers, and you’ve got a quick and easy day outfit without having to think too much and spend hours styling an outfit (we all know it’s easily done)

Open and Free

We love something with multiple uses! So, you don’t have to stop with just a dress. They’re shirts, and the buttons will undo, and you can layer up with these items. Now as much as we’re all dreaming of summer, this is England, and good ol’ UK weather is unpredictable. One minute it’s glorious sunshine; the next, it’s Gail force winds. So, by layering up, at least you’re a bit more prepared.

Shirt dresses will go beautifully on top of any outfit. Casual shirt and jeans, but you don’t want to lug around a big coat or jumper, add a stylish layer to keep the chill off and add a bit of character to your outfit. Then even add a blazer or coat on top of that; the stretchy shirt-like material isn’t bulky or too thick, so it can even work as an underlayer for those extra chilly days.

Holiday Helpers

Another great example is for those lazy, chilled beach days. Some of us curvier ladies aren’t always 100% comfortable strutting our stuff in just our swimming customers, so by adding this lightweight option; you can cover any insecurities while still looking FABULOUS!

Slip on a pair of wedges and do a couple of buttons, and you’ll be ready to jump from the beach to shops in seconds too.

Make Heads Turn

Now even though it sounds like a simple option and it can so easily be thrown into any outfit scenario, don’t think for a second LJ’s aren’t giving you the wow factor. You, Ladies, know by now we love bold and bright patterns, and even with the shirt dresses, you will make heads turn.

The Handbags & Gladrags shirt dress will give your wardrobe an Oomph with a bold and cherry pattern but that dash of denim to keep it very on-trend. Again, you can button it up to make it a statement item or casual and open it to just add to your outfit.

Wardrobe Must Have

Now these types of garments come around all year, the patterns and colours might differ slightly, but a shirt dress really is a well-rounded winner.

You may think it’s just a great holiday layer, but they really can be brought out on any occasion, even something a bit different for a job interview. Not only that, but simply add a pair of leggings, and they’ll be stylish all through winter too!

Get wedding guest ready

If you have a wedding or special occasion upcoming, then you may be starting to think about that all important outfit.
For plus size ladies and girls with curves it can seem daunting to find something that is both flattering and elegant which is also at an affordable price tag. But fear not, here at LJ’s Ladies boutique we are here to help with our range of plus size wedding guest dresses.

Embrace those curves

The first rule is to accentuate your assets. Don’t be shy about your curves, and remember that some ladies would love to have more shape to show off!
Focus firstly on what part of your body you love the most. Whether that’s your boobs, your bum or your neckline. Not sure which part is the best? Ask a friend or partner which part they love the most about your body! This may just even give you a little confidence boost.
Here’s our guide to showing off your assets. When your best feature is your….

Beautiful Boobs

If you’re blessed with a pair of boobs that you’re proud of, then one of our wrap over style dresses will be a winner for you! With a flattering v neckline, they accentuate your cleavage and give a womanly shape. We have a wide range of wrap dresses just perfect for weddings, holidays and special occasions. With an array of printed designs to choose from including; floral, vintage inspired, boho and contemporary.

Lovely Legs

Never underestimate the power of a beautiful pair of legs. If they are your best feature, then now is the time to let them shine! A shorter style dress or one with side splits will be the perfect option.
Team up with a cute pair of kitten heels or wedges to make them appear longer and why not add a hint of ‘LJ’s Glow’, the perfect natural looking tan to give you that sunshine glow all year round.

Killer Curves

Your best feature may be your all-over curvaceous body. If that’s the case, then you have a whole host of options to choose from that will make you feel incredible.
Opt for pieces with drawstrings that you can pull in to accentuate your shape. Maximising exactly the areas you love. Our popular plus size ‘Jumpsuits’ are ideal, with their detachable tie bands and elasticated leg cuffs. They offer both comfort and style and when teamed with a blazer can look incredibly smart.
Choose from plain or patterned depending on your preferred style.

Now you’ve got the look…..accessorize

Once you’ve found an outfit that you feel confident and comfortable in, it’s time to add those matching accessories. Either pick out a colour from the pattern of your dress and match that OR use Google’s colour wheel to find colours that compliment each other. When wearing dark colours like navy or black, choose an accessory with bright colours to make it ‘pop’ – something like fuchsia pink, orange or lime will look amazing and give you style and class.

Still not sure?

If you have an upcoming event or special occasion and need some fashion help, remember we offer one-on-one personal shopping experiences both instore and online via videocall.
Together we can try to help you find something that’s absolutely perfect!

How to wear shorts when you’re plus size

Shorts are a staple product in any wardrobe and are a fantastic option for summer and holidays.
Choosing the right pair of plus size shorts is crucial. Once you find the ones you love, you can unleash your creativity by making them work for you for many outfits to come.

Choose your shape

High rise shorts are usually the best for girls with curves, especially if you are blessed with an hourglass figure. Those mid to high rise options will accentuate your shape and give the most flattering result.
The shorter you are, the shorter you can afford to go with your shorts. It will help make your outfit look ‘just right’. For ladies that are a little taller, why not go for a longer pair or alternatively a pair of capri trousers or pedal pushers? Wide leg cropped trousers can also look well on some taller ladies.

Feel comfortable

You don’t just want to look good, you need to feel at your best too. Which is why choosing a pair of shorts that also offers comfort is important. By choosing a pair that has a material composition that includes elastic, you can bet that they’ll offer a better stretch than a traditional pair of shorts.
Loose leg shapes can also be a blessing on a warm day, where as shorts with a legging texture can help prevent thigh chaffing.

So now you’ve found your perfect, most comfortable pair – let’s look at how to style them…

Denim & Lace

For a feminine feel that is ON TREND all summer long, opt to mix the textures of denim and lace together. Choose your favourite pair of LJ’s denim shorts and team them with a floaty top that features broderie design or lace. Add a cute pair of wedge heels or trainer pumps and you’re good to go from beach to bar.

Blazer + Shorts + Heels

Whether it’s a hot date or a work outfit to knock the socks off your colleagues, adding a blazer can really pull an outfit together. We’d recommend choosing your favourite shorts first. If they’re a plain print, then why not add a jazzy print blazer OR T-shirt to compliment the look. If your shorts are patterned, then go classy with a plain coloured blazer. Add a pair of kitten or wedge heels and you’re sure to make heads turn.

Add a blouse or shirt

If you don’t want your shorts to look too ‘casual’ then add a fancy blouse into the equation.
A blouse, especially one with a pussybow collar can give your outfit a fashionable edge without looking like you’ve made ‘too much’ effort.
If you’d rather go for a more ‘relaxed coastal’ look then why not team your shorts with a plain vest and wear a loose shirt over the top in ‘open shacket’ style. By opting for an open shirt with a ‘high low’ shape you can modestly cover your bum whilst letting your legs still peep at the sun.

Don’t ever let your shape or size put you off wearing an item you love, however knowing these top tricks can help you get the most flattering look from your plus size maxi dress purchase.

What’s your height?

For ladies that are tall, a maxi dress can be a winning companion and often the best option to go for.
It will compliment your long legs and height. A maxi dress can be instantly elegant and is a great style of dress to choose to get the best from your height, regardless of your dress size.
For ladies who are on the shorter side, a maxi dress is best worn with a pair of heels. That way, you will get the full advantage of the long length style of the skirt. If you find heels a little too difficult to walk in, then perhaps go for a pair of wedges which will add length to your silhouette without the discomfort of walking in stilettoes.

Shape of the dress

There are so many options to choose from when it comes to fits of a maxi dress, and we’d recommend choosing a cut that works best for your figure.

Side split maxi dresses

– For example, if your legs are your best asset, why not go for a dress with a side split? Not only will it make movement in the dress so much easier, it will add a touch of elegance and help focus on your gorgeous pins!

Off the shoulder maxi dresses

If you love the shape of your neck and shoulders than a bardot style maxi dress is the answer! Not only do they give a sexy, casual vibe but they will take the focus off other areas of your body you may not love so much about yourself. A bardot will give focus to your head and neck. When choosing an off the shoulder look, you may want to avoid a big chunky necklace and prefer instead to opt for a chunky pair of earrings or even a delicate choker necklace for maximum chic.

Wrap over style maxi dresses

Our best selling shape, the ‘wrap over’ style maxi dresses are a great option for ultimate flattery. A cross over style top and elasticated middle will help accentuate the curves of your bust. The wrap over dresses usually also come with a waistband which you can utilise to shape your figure how you want. This is a great way of covering up a tummy in the most figure-friendly way.

Holidays and special occasions

A maxi dress can be the perfect choice for weddings, christenings, parties and vacations. By slipping into the right maxi dress you can automatically feel like a million dollars. It’s accentuating enough to give you a polished look whilst the length of a maxi can make you look more ‘dressed up’ – ideal for events and special occasions.

Top tip

Because of the length of a maxi dress, you may wish to add a long necklace to help elongate your body – it will not only add an edge of uniqueness to your outfit but also appears slimming.

Finding the best plus size jeans for women

All ladies deserve to find at least one pair of jeans they absolutely LOVE. A great pair can really boost your wardrobe and provide endless options for daytime, night-time and even special occasion looks.

Finding the best jeans for a curvy figure

Having curves needn’t impact your desire to get a great pair of jeans that fit just right. Here at LJ’s we have tried and tested each pair on our website to make sure there’s something for ladies sized 12-26. Our G-Smack collection offers the same stylish design you can expect from a pair of jeans but with the added bonus of STRETCH not found in regular denims. With a range of options to choose from, plus jackets to match – you can find our full G-Smack range over on our website.
Now you know we stock stylish plus size jeans, it’s time to choose the best jeans for a curvy figure that works best for you.

Plus size high waisted jeans

High waisted jeans are ON TREND right now, not only do they give you extra support around the tummy area, but they look great too. Unlike low rise jeans, a high waist pair means you’ll not need to keep pulling them up. You also don’t risk showing the world your ‘rear’ each time you bend over to pick something off the floor!
Personally, the high waist style is a no-brainer – it’s both practical and stylish and is one of our best selling styles.

Plus size mom jeans

Never has a mum looked so cool! All over social media right now, we’re seeing celebrities and influencers showing off their baggy mom jeans. A staple wardrobe piece that makes a casual look appear super trendy. Made to look like any mom’s favourite pair of jeans, they often come with a distressed look. The beauty of a decent pair of mom jeans is that during the day they can be teamed with anything. A simple hoodie and pair of trainers gives that perfect ‘school run’ look whereas you can also wear them with cute kitten heels, a band tee and blazer for a ‘hot date’ vibe.

Plus size jeggings

All the look of jeans with the comfort of leggings.
If you love to live in leggings but sometimes want the look of a jean, then a pair of ‘jeggings’ is ideal. Usually with an elasticated waistband, they feature a stretchy material – making them more comfortable than regular jeans. Once you find a stylish pair of plus size jeggings you won’t ever want to take them off! Soon you’ll be wearing them for everything; around the house, supermarket shopping, nights out and even work (they look great with a shirt).

Stylish plus size jeans

Although we stock a wide range of regular looking jeans, we also have some super stylish ones too.
If you’re looking for a bootcut, a 60’s flare or an ultimate ripped distressed look, here at LJ’s we can find a stylish pair of plus size jeans just for you!
Our full collection can be found here. Remember it gets updated on a regular basis, so it’s worth signing up to our newsletter to find out when new lines come in.

6 Months anniversary:

We’re very proud to say back in September LJ’s opened its second plus-size boutique, this time in the always expanding Yorkshire wildlife park – The Hive. Amongst a range of other beautiful shops and local artisan products is our stunning little boutique filled to the brim with plus size clothing, accessories and much more, currently up to size 28.

Our team takes pride in what they do and will always be there with a welcome smile and helpful hand to do everything they can to make you feel comfortable and confident.

We feel we’ve achieved so much in these quick 6 months, becoming a part of the wonderful community built here.

We’ve also experienced our first Christmas at The Hive, and their first Christmas market! Buzzing with excitement it definitely kept us busy with stalls, rides and food just one of many events that happen in Doncaster. Along side the market they also hosted the Winter Illuminations, a must see affair, enjoyed by all as you travel around the Wildlife park seeing magic after dark with their enchanting displays.

Make a day of it:

The Hive boutique is located only a quick 15minutes drive from our Armthorpe boutique. With only a short distance between us, don’t worry it’s definitely still worth visiting us at both and you’ll have a different experience at each. Armthorpe has now changed to our sales outlet, so you can pick up a bargain, have a coffee at the always popular Joanne’s cafe then make a trip over to the Hive for all things new and unique and have a delicious lunch at one of the Hive’s bistro’s and cafes.

Take a walk on the wild side:

The Hive is a fantastic up and coming destination for not for only shopping, but dining and entertainment too. With free parking available you can take your time perusing all the shops. A fun day for the whole family with UPROAR, kids play barn, to The Badger for local beers, wines and local snacks all the way through too treating yourself to a new outfit at LJ’s.

You can even make a full weekend of it! The Hive is free to enter but is obviously attached to the UK’s number 1 walkthrough wildlife conservation and rehabilitation attraction – The Yorkshire wildlife park, with onsite hotel The Hex, so there’s time for everything and something for everyone.

Are you not entertained?:

If you’re coming to visit us here in Doncaster look out for the many exciting events that will be popping up at The Hive. We’re so lucky to be able to say we’re located in such a fantastic and exciting place. The Yorkshire Wildlife park hosts events all year round including one very soon in April “The Wildest Wizard of Oz” which involves meet & greets, live shows and stalls. August sees the appearance of the one and only Olly Murs! So make sure you check out all the upcoming happenings at the park and make sure to pop in and see us during your visit.

Leesa makes it on to the entrepreneur ialso2023 list

In January of 2023, the whole LJ’s team were buzzed to hear that their boss, the LJ’s founder – Leesa Sharpe had made it on to a prestigious list of entrepreneurs in the UK.
The F.Entrepreneur is focused on the success of women in business and looks at hundreds of applications from women-led companies from around the UK.

#ialso1002023

Leesa was incredibly humbled to receive this award and is now looking forward to meeting up with the other winners at a tea party to be held at the House of Lords in just a few weeks time.
To win an award doing something you absolutely love is incredible, and Leesa is looking forward to meeting some other like-minded women whom may also share her passion to create growing businesses that focus on the benefit of women around the nation.

The story behind the F:Entrepreneur

Michelle Ovens CBE is a small business enterprise expert who runs Small Business Britain, an organisation with a world class track record in the conception, management and execution of high profile, national campaigns particularly in the small business and enterprise sectors.
She set up the f:entrepreneur Campaign, which launched on International Womens Day 2017, because of the growing sense that there should be more recognition for the power women who run so many businesses in the UK.

The Campaign

The goal of the campaign is to celebrate the dynamic and inspirational businesses led by women in the UK.
The campaign is aimed at both men and women, because everyone has something to learn from these stories of challenge and success. Through events, content and story-telling , f:entrepreneur showcases role models to help and inspire all small businesses.

It pays to shop at LJs ladies curve and plus size fashion boutique

In January 2023, LJ’s boutique launched their very first online rewards points scheme.
A brand new way to appreciate and reward the loyalty of returning customers.
The offer now means that you can rack up points on your website fashion purchases.
Once saved up, these points can then be spent on future orders through the LJ’s ladies boutique website.
Every 10 points gained is currently equivalent to a £1 saving.

Rewards scheme now live

LJ’s customers are already starting to benefit from the rewards scheme.
With every 10 points saved, resulting in £1 off a future order
??? – get points for items you buy on our website – it will tell you under each item how many points you’ll get
???? – Every time you get to 10 points, that is £1 you can spend on a future order – keep racking them up to watch your points grow
????? – Spend your points when you’re ready on a future order. Simply allocate them to your purchase on checkout

Available for account holders only

In order to register for the rewards scheme and take full advantage of the benefits it offers, customers must first register an account on the LJ’s ladies boutique website.

Registration is free and easy and your account can be created in minutes.
Once an account is activated you can then use this to track orders, add funds to the savings club and of course manage your reward points.

(Remember – you MUST be logged into your LJ’s account to get points, we cannot add them on at a later stage)

Get shopping

All you have to do to accrue your points, is to shop online as usual and watch your points grow with each purchase you make.
It’s worth noting that there are some restrictions to the deal – points will not be gained from sale items or anything already discounted. Customers also using coupon codes to save money on their order will notice that points will not be added to these orders either.

If you’re not sure, simply head over to the terms and conditions page on the website to read about it in more detail.

Full terms and conditions can be found here on the website.

Spend your rewards

You’ll be able to login to your account and see how many points you’ve saved.
Once you’ve got enough to spend, it will give you the option on checkout to allocate the savings to your purchase.
Not sure how many points each item is worth? Under each product description on the website it will show you how many potential points you can gain from that particular item
So what are you waiting for? If you’ve seen something you like – it’s a fantastic excuse to treat yourself!