M&S launches new Curve collection for sizes 18-22 – and we’ve picked the best pieces so you can stay ahead of the trend
The 'plus size' fashion industry is worth £6.6billion and M&S has joined the competition with River Island and New Look
STYLISH clothes should be available in all shapes and sizes – and M&S is making sure that happens.
The high-street giant today launches the first of its Curve collection, which comes in sizes 18-32, with clever detailing and carefully picked fabrics to flatter fuller figures.
The so-called “plus size” fashion industry is worth £6.6billion, but M&S has fallen behind other stores which have been cashing in on the market for years.
New Look introduced its first plus-size range in 2000, while River Island launched its version six years later.
M&S’s collection will also be in competition with specialists Simply Be, Yours and Evans.
So how does it compare to the old hands? M&S is off to a good start – the collection has strong key items, such as a trench coat, an evening jumpsuit and a cool waistcoat.
Size-22 fashion blogger Danielle Vanier acted as consultant and designed two of the dresses – and will no doubt help sales by pulling in some of her 93,000 Instagram followers.
The first 30 pieces will be available to buy online today, with the rest of the collection available in store and online from January 23.
Here GABRIELE DIRVANAUSKAS has handpicked the best pieces and asked our size-18 model to try them on and give her stylist’s tip on each.
Staying mellow in yellow
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STYLIST'S TIP: The top’s ruched detail flatters a problem area for many women.
Skirt is a suitable length for work, while the asymmetry gives edge. Necklace is perfect accessory.
Don't mesh with me
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STYLIST'S TIP: One of two black dresses fashion blogger Danielle Vanier has designed.
Mesh sleeves for modern, quirky look – and quirky two-length hemline.
All about the trench coat
Trench coat, £69; striped shirt, £27.50; midi skirt, £45;;
STYLIST'S TIP: Trench coats are a spring staple. Invest now and wear for years to come.
Pair with a striped shirt from the collection. Skirt nips in the waist but sadly creases easily.
Get seen in green
Khaki duster coat, £59; pink shirt, £32.50; wide-leg trousers, £39.50;
STYLIST'S TIP: Pink and green SHOULD be seen. This longline khaki waistcoat is a key piece from the collection.
Longer length is flattering and belt will help pull in your waist.
MOST READ IN FABULOUS
Grey is all that matters
Grey coat, £69; blue shirt, £39.50; ;
STYLIST'S TIP: I love this tailored coat – its classic design and neutral colour will see you wear it for years to come.
Longline shirt streamlines the figure by skimming over the tummy and hips.
Jumping into navy baby
; ; clutch bag, £29.50;
STYLIST'S TIP: This jumpsuit is one of my fave pieces from the collection.
M&S have really thought about the customer’s shape, with elbow-length sleeves for those conscious about their arms.
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