I was happy to be invited to Matalan‘s pressday here in London last Wednesday. They showcased some key pieces from their A/W 2012 collections for womenswear (plus sizes had their own section – YAY), menswear, kids and home.

Their plus range is named Rogers & Rogers, and it caters sizes 18-30 (which is definitely a good thing). The range currently has only a few pieces that I would take in my wardrobe, and it looks that it is aimed to more older and ‘reserved’ plus size women than me. So yeah, let’s get real: Matalan is currently not a first choice for fashionable plus size women.

BUT… I think this is going to change soon!

I spoke to a few nice ladies from Matalan at the event, and said that I see a huge difference in their plus range from S/S season. They agreed, and said that Matalan made a decision to take directional designs from the mainline range and bring that to plus range, making sure that the range is about FASHION. They still want the range to offer pieces for everyone (which means that it will include basics, which is very understandable), but they want to bring it forward, fashion-wise.

Matalan used a focus group of plus sized ladies to get feedback from the collection, and some of the feedback definitely sounds promising…
- praise for the extensive size of the collection (which means there will be something for everyone)
- compliments on the fabric quality and diversity (which might be the reason that the prices were a bit higher than what I have usually seen at Matalan, but no complaints)
- on-trend adaptations of the mainline pieces
and my fave..
- jeggings with jean fastening (so jeans-style with comfort of jeggings – I approve!)

This lace-dress was my absolute favourite from the pieces that were showcased. I NEED it in my life! I have to wait for a few months though, since the A/W collection will be available in all stores and online from September.

I also took pics of some of their mainline pieces and accessories. Some of their mainline range goes up to size 22, so let’s hope some of these trendy pieces are in that category!

I want one of these sheer shirts in every colour!

WANT. WANT. And WANT.

Oh and the shoes and bags were gorgeous too! I really loved their ‘trainer wedges’, the burgundy pair I have pictured below was amazing! And that blue pair with studs? HUUUUUUUGE WANT! They were even more cool in real life, the blue is a striking shade, absolutely beautiful.

And the bags then? Studs, horses, colours.. what’s not to love?

So, even though we finally seem to have summer here in the UK, after attending the event I definitely am waiting for autumn! The A/W season is going to be really amazing in the world of fashion, and I’m happy that Matalan have definitely made a big step forward with their plus collection. Brilliant!

Sorry for the quality of the photos, I only had my iPhone with me. When I get hold of the press photos I will share them with you all :)