AN INFLUENTIAL moneysaving expert who has millions of followers for her bargain advice has launched a national, official celebration of larger women.
Ashleigh Swan – known across the UK as Ashleigh Money Saver – has unveiled her plans to host the national Plus Size Awards this summer, recognising the body activists and retailers who cater for those who aren’t standard sizes.
Mum-of-three Ashleigh gained national attention after going on-line to post special offers and deals to help those who may not have a huge amount of spare cash.
And now that hobby has grown into a national business, with 27-year-old Ashleigh offering a range of different options on her website including her own Ashleigh Plus Size section.
“Honouring those who cater for the plus size sector is very important to me,” said Ashleigh, who lives in Newcastle.
“And I felt that it was very timely and reflected what is happening generally in the fashion industry where retailers are recognising that women come in all shapes and sizes and want to be fashionable.
“Many high street retailers now stock bigger sizes, something that was unheard of a few years ago and this really shows that there has been a huge change in the mindset of the fashion industry.
“It’s this diversity we want to celebrate.”
Shoppers are being encouraged to nominate in the awards which opened on Thursday (8 March) and runs until 4 May, with the shortlist then going to a panel of expert judges.
Individual categories include most engaging plus size blog, top plus size social influencer and leading body positivity campaigner.
The awards will also honour the best value plus size range, top swimwear and lingerie for plus size, best footwear, top new retailer and best high street, independent and online retailers.
The top body positive publication will also be among those celebrated, with the judges naming the plus size retailer of the year from the entrants across all categories.
Anyone wanting to enter can do so at www.ashleighplussize.co.uk. Everyone who nominates will be entered into a draw for two tickets for the VIP awards ceremony which will be held at 8 Northumberland Avenue, London on 22 June.