eShakti Review and Giveaway!

Hi everyone! I'm back as promised with my Christmas day outfit! In my family, we don't really make a big deal over Christmas Eve, but Christmas day is a different story! I spent all morning in the kitchen with Mom cooking yummy dishes to serve when the entire family came over for dinner that night. It seemed fitting to wear this A-line Gold Fish Block Print Dress courtesy of eShatki to dinner, it made me feel like Susie Homemaker!

A-line is not a silhouette I much wear, but I'm so happy I picked it when eShakti contacted me to review a piece from their website. If you haven't heard of eShakti, they're an online retailer based in Seattle, Washington and Chennai, India which carries their entire line (which is quite extensive) in every size from 0-26! Even better than that, you are give the option to enter your measurements for a perfect fit, or even to customize any garment for a small fee - You can take up hem lines, add sleeves, or even change a neckline!

I didn't make any customizations to my dress, but I did give them my measurements to be sure of a perfect fit. I sometimes have issues the bust of empire-waisted dresses like this one being too small and snug because of the girls. I made sure to include my bra size when ordering to make sure the bust area would fit.  When my package came in the mail (in only a few days I might add), I could not have been happier with the results of the dress. It's made of a really rich, thick cotton fabric, and the gold fish print is so fun and whimsical; maybe it's the Pisces in me that makes me love it! It truly fits like a glove - a perfect fit in the bust, and the neckline is modest enough but still shows the tiiiniest amount of cleavage. Like I said, I don't really wear A-line skirts but I love how this looked belted with this gold-buttoned black cardigan. For this 50's style dress, the neckline and skirt are a perfect balance.

As soon as I chose it, I knew exactly how I'd style this dress. The cropped three-quarter sleeved cardi matches perfect with it's gold buttons, and I no one has to tell me twice when it comes to piling on the gold accessories! Gold rings, bangles, and of these gorgeous dangly earrings completed the look.

Dress: Courtesy of eShakti

Cardigan: Attention

Tights: Hue

Pumps: Preview via Nordstrom Rack

Bracelets: Old Navy

Love Knot Ring: Etsy

Statement Ring: Christmas present from my brother; from the Union Square Holiday Market

Earrings: H&M

Some of you may remember my eShaktiphobia post - I had discovered eShakti's site but was hesitant to order because I wasn't sure of the quality of the fabric and how well these custom garments would fit. I wouldn't have any hesitations now, and actually have a few more pieces in mind that I'd like!

Now for the fun stuff! The lovely people over at eShakti have offered two $15 gift certificates for me to giveaway to two lucky readers! I'm really excited about this because I hope it will give someone who has been eyeing eShakti a chance to order something and see how great they are! You can check them out on Facebook here or follow them on Twitter @eshakti!

The rules are simple!

1. You must be a follower. Leave a comment with your name, email address, and what product you'd use your eShakti gift card on.

That's all folks!

For extra entries you can do any of the following:

1. Follow @FataleFashion and @eShakti on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway - Leave a comment with your twitter name.

2. Blog about this giveaway - leave a comment with a link to your post.

Good luck guys!

Also, welcome to bringasmilesara, Brittany of Plush Diva (and my Secret Blogger recipient!), Janet of FatGirl's Learning Curve, Erica of Plum Proper, Dee of The Merry Traveller, and the always fabulous Beth Greaney!

Merry Christmas!

Hi all! Just popping in to say I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas! I wish you all a day of love, happiness, fun times with family and friends, and lots of yummy food and drink! And if you don't celebrate, you still have love coming your way from me :)

I can't tell you how much your continued support and kind words means. Funny how people you've never met can brighten you day, isn't it? Fatale Fashion has brought me nothing but positive vibes and smiles since I started it in October, and I can't wait to see where the next year takes me. I'll see you all tomorrow with my Christmas outfit post (and a giveaway, yay)! Until then, cheers!

Plus Model Magazine - The Blog

 
Exciting stuff! Among other fabulous ladies like Stephanie of Le Blog de Big Beauty, Georgina of Cupcake's Clothes, and Amanda of Fashion, Love, and Martinis, I was featured on Plus Model Magazine - The Blog's Fashion Friday post! So honored! Check it out :)

I Heart DUO Boots!

DUO Boots, though pricey, are some of the best are the market especially for curvy girls like me who have trouble finding quality boots that fit wide calves. I've talked about DUO before, but if you've never heard of them, they're a retailer based in the UK that carries every style of their fashionable boots in 21 calf sizes and 3 widths. No longer do you need to look on in envy of girls in their over-the-knee boots because DUO has several different styles in varying heel height.

I can't believe I've never posted an outfit with my DUOs because I do wear them quite often! I have the Viola boots in brown and I couldn't be happier about the quality and fit. They're made of buttery soft leather and fit my 17.5 in calves like a glove. I will post a review soon!!

Back to the topic at hand! DUO is having a fabulous sale - you can snag a pair for yourself at 30% off! I'm so happy with the quality of my Viola's that I will definitely, 100%, be ordering another pair of DUO's soon!

Surprise!

I can't tell you how excited I was to come home yesterday and find my Secret Blogger gift waiting for me!

My Santa was Case of Frugal Fatshion Frenzy and she totally blew me away with her perfect gifts! First, this beautiful tunic dress from F21:

It's made of a really comfy stretch jersey, I love how it hugs my curves and is in the color of the season; taupe! Isn't the draped neckline fabulous?

I love the belt it comes with too (which is detachable, yay), it goes perfectly with so many of my accessories, and will look great on so many other outfits! Here I paired it with gold chandelier earrings and a statement gold cuff.

That's not all!

Nail polish! You all know how I feel about nail polish! I'm gonna get great use outta these babies, especially the gold glitter! I already have an idea in mind :)

Case, you totally nailed my style and I love my presents! Thanks girl!

And also a huge thanks to Gerry over at Big Beautyful Mess for putting together the Secret Blogger Gift Exchange, it was great to get to know some of these lovely ladies better!

Those blue and yellow purple hills

Ha! I didn't mean for this post title to be as inappropriately hilarious as it is, but it works!

Christmas shopping is dangerous. Such good sales and deals, for every present I bought for someone I ended up buying a present for myself as well...not that I'm complaining lol! This ruffled top from Macy's was one of my multiple Christmas gifts to myself. As soon as I saw it on the sale rack, the bright and funky print had me at hello. Today I paired it with my trusyt purple cardigan (it's been getting a lot of play lately, I think this is a sign I need more cardigans), but I love that there's so many colors to pull from...I would have loved to pair it with a yellow cardi if I had one!

Doesn't the print sort of remind you of a butterfly wing? I also love the fact that it zips in the front, you all know how I feel about zippers! I do have some cons on this top though; It's not printed all way way around, the back side of this top is a  black stretchy jersey. I guess this is good for the fit of the shirt, because it doesn't slide around as much as a fully silky top normally would, but I do find it annoying because I feel like I can never wear this without a cardigan over it. Also, I had trouble keeping the front of the cardi in place because of the silky fabric; it would just sliiiiiide right on off the girls. That's why I belted it, to keep the cardi in place as well as giving it structure. Next time I think I'll have to play around with safety pinning the cardi right to the shirt. I just hate having to tug at my sweater all day to make sure the girls are covered!

Do you like my new bling bling watch? The wristband is rubber! This style is great because you get the perfect combo of the masculine (I like the large face with the different gauges, even if I don't know how to use them) and the feminine sparkle. I love pairing a big watch with lots of bracelets :) Both of these came from Syms, which, If I'm not mistaken, is owned by Filene's Basement. If you have a Syms in your area, it's worth a trip! They're like TJ Maxx except geared more towards business casual, and also much more organized. I find that the quality of the clothes they sell are generally better than what you find at TJ Maxx. They have a good plus section, too (at least mine does). I've gotten LOTS of great stuff from Syms, including an awesome pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers yesterday for only $60!

Top: Macy's
Cardigan: TJ Maxx
Belt: Off some dress or other
Jeggings: Old Navy
Boots: Evans (on sale!)
Watch: Julia and James via Syms
Bangles: Syms
Ring: New York and Company

Welcome to some new faces :) Cid, of Cid Style File, Maria MM, and Heather!


Hope everyone's getting their holiday shopping done and staying warm! Stay tuned for a review and giveaway coming next week!

I've always had a soft spot for polka dots

I've always been a procrastinator, and this holiday season is no different from any other - so Saturday I knew I needed to get on the Christmas shopping ball. There are two things that never fail to cheer me up: Nice weather and a cute outfit! So I decided to take advantage of the pretty day to take my pics outside before I headed to the shops :)

This outfit incorporates two great finds from Old Navy. I belted the Ruffle Keyhole Top and paired it with these Denim Leggings.  The top lets the girls out to play more than I usually go for but my trusty red cardigan tones it down a bit (also from Old Navy acutally). I've always gravitated towards black and red together, and I love the detail of the white polka dots and the ruffled neckline, which runs all the way around the neck of this top instead of just stopping at the shoulder. I like this so much I got it in two colors!

Some people may not like the fact that these jeggings have a thick, elastic waistband (like leggings ) rather than zipper and button closure like jeans, but I actually like it. It smooths the tummy area. These aren't just blue leggings with stitching though, these are actual demin; maybe even less stretchy than I expected. I really like these a lot, I'm thinking about going back to get a second pair. You can never have enough of staples like this in my option; they're perfect for tucking in jeans or with flats or heels. They're on the short side though - hitting right at the ankle on me, and I'm 5'5. Some of you taller ladies may find these only good for wearing with boots.

Throw on my go-to grey Target boots (they're on sale!) and some accessories, and I'm ready to go :)

Polka dot top: Old Navy
Cardigan: Old Navy
Jeggings: Old Navy
Belt: New York & Company
Ring: H&M
Watch: Syms
Bangles: Syms
Boots: Target

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone for their kind words about my grandfather. Means a lot :)

RIP

Hoping you can forgive me for my long absence, my family received some sad news early this week - my paternal grandfather unfortunately passed away. He was struggling with some heart problems for a while, and went through a very successful open-heart surgery in November. We were so optimistic that he was on his way to recovery, but eventually succumbed to a lung infection on Monday morning. He was a wonderful man, and I'll always remember my summers in Greece, watching him tending to the gardens to grown the veggies we ate everyday, yelling to my grandmother to "Bring more feta cheese!", or listening to him singing in his strong, resonant voice at every holiday and family gathering.

RIP Pappou.

It's a Must-Have

 

 

I have about 150 bookmarks of pieces of clothing from different retailers around the web of things that I like. Most of these I don't get around to buying, but this Slash Neck Lace Dress from ASOS Curve with NOT be one of them, oh no, because I am buying it as soon as pay day rolls around. For $68 and change, I just can't pass it up. What a beautiful, classic, must-have piece!! The simple neckline, the scalloped edges; this is a dress that I need in my wardrobe, one that I know I'll be able to wear for years to come. Thank you ASOS!!

Is it a little to much to hope that they've solved their international shipping problems and this gets here before New Year's Eve?

Great News!

Hey everyone! Great news! The Fatale Fashion Shop is now open for business!

There's only a few pieces in there at the moment, but there will be much more added in the coming days. I will be posting and tweeting to let you ladies know as I add more pieces.

I'm going to be using PayPal for Fatale Fashion Shop transactions. If you'd like to buy something, all you need to do is email me at fatFataleFashion@gmail.com and let me know which piece you're interested in. I'll calculate the shipping and then send you a PayPal invoice via email. Easy as pie!

Happy shopping!

It's that time of year...

...When every woman is searching for that perfect party dress! Whether it be sequined, velvet, satin, or just plain gorgeous, every fashionista wants to find that one holiday frock that makes her feel like a million bucks (without spending quite that amount!) I went through some of my favorite retailers to share my picks for holiday dresses :) Enjoy!

Sequined

Sequins are a huge trend during the holiday season - here's a wide variety of pretty numbers to shine in.

Left: ASOS CURVE Exclusive Sequin & Jewel Embellished Dress. $146.54 Right: Fishtail Pattern Sequin Dress. $79.99

This blue sequined ASOS Curve dress is a beautiful statement piece for the holiday season. The pretty sparkle plus the daring plunge back is sure to make heads turn. Be warned though, with long shipping times that ASOS has been guilty of lately, if you live in the US you may not get this in time for your holiday soiree!


But a dress like this Fishtail Pattern sequined number from JCPenny would be shipped to you US ladies in just a few short days, and the pattern makes it different from a lot of other sequined pieces I've seen!

Left: Sequin Dress. $79.99 Right: Bisou Bisou Panel Dress w Sequins $59.99

I'm pretty impressed with JCPenny's dress selection this holiday season, especially by this sequined dress (on left). This dress is fully sequined front and back, unlike other dressed which are only sequined in front and just fabric in back. The scoop neck, short sleeves, and medium length are bound to look great on every shape. I can see myself rocking this with tights and sky-high heels. All of JCPenny's dresses run up to a 24W!

Another great pick from Bisou Bisou at JCPenny on the right: The plunging sequined neckline is great for those who want to let the girls out to play, while the bandage skirt will make your curves look killer.

Left: JS Collection Sequin Striped Dress. $198 Right: Calvin  Klein Sequin Hem Dress. $158

The Sequin Striped dress is one of my very favorite dresses of the holiday season. The curved stripes of sequins give so much shape and make your waist look tiny. The V-neck is beautiful too. Add the A-line skirt and you've got one beautiful silhouette.

For those who want just a touch of shine, this CK dress (right) may be perfect. Simple scoopneck and long sleeves on top with some sass on the hem. This dress could totally do double duty at work with tights and modest heels, and some sexy booties for a night out.

Left: Calvin Klein Sleeveless Sequin Dress. $118. Right: INC International Concepts Sleeveless Sequined Tweed Dress. $64.50

Another pretty pick from CK is this gold and black sequin dress. The two colors together make for some big time visual interest, I just wish that it was sequined front and back, and not just the front. Hey, if JCPenny can do it, Calvin Klein should be able to do it. Just sayin'.

Here's another dress that shines, but on a more subdued level. The rich tweed fabric sprinkled with tiny sequins, plus the pretty embellished neckline make for another stylish double-duty dress.

Velvet

Velvet is not longer just for little girl's gowns and old lady dresses. The fabric has made a huge comeback this winter, especially in the holiday dress department.

Left: Black Velvet Tube Dress w Belt. $58 Right: ASOS Curve Twisted Velvet Dress. $77.58

On left is a great dress from Torrid for those of you ladies who can rock the strapless look (that sure as hell isn't me lol). I am really digging this! Touche, Torrid! The slight sweetheart neckline and belt makes this very fairly-priced dress look expensive!

Another pick from ASOS Curve on the right, so keep in mind the long shipping time. This dress has a really cute shape with draping that extends from the bust like all the way to the hem. It comes in a deep red too, which is great for the holidays, but prefer the pretty gunmetal grey, it's a little edgier in my opinion.

Left: Alexandra Draped Goddess Dress. $228 Right: V Neck Velvet Dress with Broach. $49.99

Ohh dear lordy. The Monif C. Alexandra dress has me melting into a giant, lustful puddle of "I WANT I NEED...RIGHT NOW!" I have a major hard-on for long sleeved dresses, and the low cowl neck and ruched skirt make my heart skip a beat. SALE, PLEASE???

If you, like me, just can't afford to shell out close to $230 for a dress, you might want to look into this less expensive option, another one from JCPenny.

A Pop of Color

Stand out from the crowd by opting for one of these jewel-toned beauties rather that the standard LBD this holiday season.

Left: Lovedrobe Diamond Gem Dress. $69.30 (£44) Right: Purple Pocket Tube Dress. $64

You guys all know that there's nothing better than a double duty piece in my book. The Love Diamond dress from Evans can definitely be put in that category. Wear it as a tunic with a cardi, leggings or skinnies, and cute flats for work, or amp up the sex appeal with tights and heels. Once again, be aware of long shipping times from the UK to US.

This pretty satin dress from Torrid is another nice strapless option. I love this deep plum hue, it looks great on all skin tones. And pockets! Love!

Left: Alex Evenings Jeweled Stretch Satin Dress. $148 Right: Calvin Klein Satin Dress. $158

The Alex Evenings dress is such a stunning color you'd be hard to miss at any party. You may not think blue reads "holiday," but with the soft sheen of the satin, delicate pleating, and embellishment on the hip, I beg to differ.

Props to Calvin Klein for doing such a great job with dresses, and other clothing, for plus women. This gorgeously blackened red dress is so versatile - show off your décolletage with big sparkly earrings and a  cuff, or turn some heads with a statement necklace and a cocktail ring. You could even belt it to dress it down a bit!

What will you be wearing to this year's holiday celebrations?

I just want to take a second to thank every one of you, subscribers and one time visitors, who is out there reading the blog and leaving such wonderful comments. You guys don't know how much I appreciate every one! I just hit 50 followers a few days ago and I'm still in shock! I truly never thought I'd have any readers at all, let alone some who support me on the regular with such sweet remarks about my posts and outfits. My confidence is boosted way up knowing I have this great community of beautiful women behind me! Bottom line? I love you all and THANK YOU!

And welcome to some newcomers too :) Elata, Ace, and Lynn of The Style Diaries. It's great to see you here!