The Christmas List

Everyone has been posting Christmas wish lists, and while I know most of my loved ones are done shopping for me (and a little birdy told me that the Panache Fern in oriental blue is coming to me this year *squeal*), I still have a list of bras that set my heart aflame and….oh, Santa….couldn’t you make me a happy girl this year? I do have a Master’s graduation at the end of the month, too. I’ve been extra good this year… 

 

Curvy Kate “Portia” in White/Pink

I recently “re-acquired” the Portia in black/pink in a 40J and I forgot how much I love this bra. I had thought that I had grown out of the 40J and sold it to a friend….however, last night she came over and I swapped my Elomi Betty Plunge for two of the CK bras that I had sold her in September (and she never wore….); both the Portia and the Angel in bluebell (the bra that I considered to be “the one that got away”).  **Never underestimate the blessing that is having busty friends…while I hated the shape that the Betty gave me, it looks so good on her! Great trade!!**

So, of course, now I want the white/pink version. And matching panties! 🙂

 

Ewa Michalak “PL Ametyst”

 

Once I figure out my EM size, this bra will. be. mine. At some point in the last year, my favorite color changed from Green to Purple….so, yes. I want this. And I want those matching high waisted knickers.

 

Kiss Me Deadly “Elle” Robe

 

Words cannot describe how much I would love for Santa to bring me this. Unfortunately, Kiss Me Deadly has been sold out of the XL for all time (and who knows if they will ever have more??), so I doubt I will ever get this…but a girl can dream, right?

 

Elomi “Maggie” Babydoll

 

A plus size babydoll up to a GG cup? Yes please. Well, I wear larger than a GG cup, but I think I could justify folding and squeezing my J cup girls into a 42GG, right? YES. That’s all that matters is…yes.

 

Urkye “Skołowana bakłażanowa” Dress

Urkye is another bust friendly clothing company (if you haven’t tried them yet, neither have I, but it’s on my list of things to do!)…. I love the shape and style of this dress….AND it’s purple 🙂

So that’s what’s on my list….be sure to check out many of the other lovely bloggers’ Christmas lists 🙂

**What’s on your list this year?**

 

Why It’s Okay to Have Multiple Sizes in Your Drawer

“I’m a 38J”

“Well, I’m a 34HH”

“Oh? I’m a 30F”

Sizes.

So often you’ll see women label themselves as one size. I’ve done it before. I’ve seen lots of other bloggers do it. But what does “I’m a *insert size*” really mean?

First, we are not just a size….so let’s move past that.

Secondly, the size that you wear (the size does not make the woman!) fluctuates with every tiny change in your body. Did you know that many women have to wear a bra that is a cup size bigger, and sometimes even a band size bigger, during their periods? And then, other times, they are able to size down from what their “normal” size is.

But what really defines a normal size? There’s no standardization in sizes across companies – or even within a certain company. So while you may be able to wear, say a 38HH in one brand, you may need a 40HH in another, a 38J in another, and maybe even a 36J in another brand. That’s a large range of different sizes. And that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you, it just means that no two bra is the same cut, same make, etc.

But then you add in how your body changes….

For example, my cycle is about 32 days in length. Immediately following the most horrible week ever, I can comfortably wear 38J’s with no double boob, and the band feels comfortable. As I get closer to ovulation, I typically feel better in my 40HH/J’s…..and then when the fated week arrives, I’ve found that I could probably do well to size up to a 42H because I am so bloated and everything pinches. Add in the fact that during that time I get sensitive and cranky and I just want to be comfortable. I don’t want my bra to be tight, at all.

So, my rotation of bras looks something like this: First week, I wear my Panache Tango, Elomi Sakura, and usually my Andorra. Second and third weeks I sometimes still wear the Andorra, as well as usually wearing my Hermione, Abi and Briony….and then when that fateful time rolls around, I typically suffer and wear just my Hermione and my Abi (which occasionally pinch during this time).

Now, there are a few ways you can make sure that you are comfortable all month long:

• Track how your body changes throughout the month with regular measurements
• Match up how your bra fits with how your body feels (snugger bras are better for when you are not bloated and vice versa)
• Buy a bra that is bigger in whatever way you need it (cup or band, or even both) and save it for those rough times during the month – OR invest in at least one bra that has a stretch lace (or flexible) upper cup for slight changes in cup size
• Buy an extender if you find that you only need some more space in the band during your time of the month – much cheaper than buying a new bra, and you can put it on any of your bras which doesn’t limit you from wearing your favorites
• Be flexible. Your body changes in a fluid way, so you can’t get upset with yourself or your body if you aren’t wearing just one specific size (remember? every bra is made differently).

I know how much sentiment can be attached to a size, but if you can move past labels, you’ll be able to make sure that (1) your bra fits no matter what time of the month it is and (2) you’re comfortable and supported every day.

Lets not forget that, on average, Americans gain anywhere from 2-10 pounds during the holidays. I know that I need my eatin’ bra* for this time of year….

 

What about you? Does your size fluctuate throughout the month? Do you have a bra that is your go-to for that time? 

 

*similar to eatin’ pants, which are pants that are a bigger size and don’t pinch after you have overindulged.

Current eBay Listings

I have a gazillion bras that do not fit, just kind of chilling in a box in the closet. Once again, I have updated my listings on eBay to try and sell these bras that are in great condition (completely unworn).

Lane Bryant Teal/Black Polka Dot convertible bandeau bra, size 44G

Lane Bryant Tropical print convertible bandeau/demi cup bra, size 42G

Lane Bryant Cotton  unlined balconette bra in black, size 42H – (two of these available)

Lane Bryant Lace Balconette Bra, in pink/black, size 42G

Primadonna Madison full coverage bra with stretch lace upper cup, red, US size 42H

Please take a gander! 🙂

Kiss Me Deadly Birthday Sale

So, Kiss Me Deadly is celebrating their birthday with a great sale (and drawing giveaway for a 250 pound voucher).

Now, technically you are supposed to go on their website and find all of the colored little gift boxes to get the coupon codes for the birthday sale. But seeing as I was bored, have a fast internet connection, and needed a homework break… I went ahead and found all of them to share with you!

I myself have not had the pleasure of trying Kiss Me Deadly (YET), but do take advantage of the sale. The coupons are good until Tuesday, Nov. 20th

• 30% off Amelie collection pieces with BIRTHDAYAMELIETHS
• 20% off Tempest Rose collection pieces with BIRTHDAYTEMPESTROSESHH
• 15% off Sirena collection pieces with BIRTHDAYSIRENAGRR
• 30% off Swimwear with BIRTHDAY30SWIMS
• 15% off anything with BIRTHDAY15FTH

 

Enjoy!

50 Shades of Grey for Plus Size Ladies

I’m going to go out on a limb – and no judging please – and let you all know that I LOVED reading “50 Shades of Grey”. I’ll admit that I’m a fairly “vanilla” kind of girl. But there’s something so incredibly captivating about the darker side of sexuality.

Anyways, I know that with the popularity of 50 Shades that companies have been churning out bondage inspired lingerie. So here I have for you a few options for plus sized ladies that fit the bill for this new trend 🙂

I think a great place to start is Hips and Curves’ collection of Plus Sized Lingerie…

Size chart for reference 🙂

Plus Sizes 1X – 4X

Size Bust Waist Hips Dress Size 1x 38 – 41 31 – 34 42 – 45 16 – 18 2x 42 – 45 35 – 38 46 – 49 18 – 20 3x 46 – 49 39 – 41 50 – 53 20 – 22 4x 50 – 53 42 – 44 54 – 56 22 – 24

Velvet Spanking Skirt

Click the image to go to source; from Hips and Curves.com

Available in sizes 1X-4X and with a moderate price tag, this skirt is definitely Christian Grey inspired (he does love to spank!). The skirt itself boasts a mesh body and lace up waist for custom fit. Love it!

Expose Belle Noire Chemise

Click on image to go to source, Photo from Hips and Curves.com

Again, available in sizes 1X-4X, this daring chemise is offered in both black and merlot (LOVE). The strappy top is reminiscent of cage bodysuits without being overly daring.

Etsy Sellers 

Seller: BodyBinds

Body binds are handmade, elastic harnesses by Jackie. Jackie was very friendly when I contacted her about Body binds, to find out if they are makable in plus sizes. She responded that yes, she can make them in plus sizes (though would need to try a sample first).

‘Kiele’ Bondage Monokini

Click the photo to go to listing

To me, this screams 50 shades! The great thing about Body binds is that they are offered in lots of different colors. The base size maximum hip measurement is 40″, but again, it can be custom made larger. And the price is pretty amazing for a handmade piece like this.

“Elaina” Bondage Monokini

Click the photo to go to listing

I think that the spider web-type detail on the front of this monokini is kind of amazing.

Etsy Seller: Dirty Little Laundry

Dirty Little Laundry boasts lots of unique handmade pieces in their shop! Owner Iliana has and will make plus sized pieces for customers. Basically, the shop has everything from corsets to headbands.

Hot Pink Elastic Cage Top

Click the image to go to listing

I know, I know. When I think 50 Shades of Grey, I think of bondage, cage type items. I love the look of this, though! I would definitely be curious to see how this looks and fits on a plus size body….perhaps I shall order something one of these days.

***When you think 50 Shades of Grey, what lingerie pieces come to mind??? What other sources have you seen for plus size women?  Let me know in the comments below!!***

Laters, baby….

Ambition is Bigger Than Time….

More and more, I keep thinking this is what I want to do. I want to own a lingerie boutique. I want to fit women and change their lives!

I also want to own a bakery. And a restaurant. And a craft store.

I have the tendency to start many, many projects and then have myself spread thin. Like right now? I work full time, I’m finishing up my master’s, we got another dog in August (yikes, potty and puppy training), I have a very successful Etsy wedding favors store, we’re working on starting a handmade soap business, and I have all those buckeyes to drill holes into and make into necklaces and wreaths, etc. We’re also listing our condo for sale in the Spring to move closer to my family (2 hours away). Oh, did I mention that I’m an avid crocheter? I’m actively looking for a teaching job that I can start up after graduation, too. Yesterday, my husband and I started working on our massive combined family trees (with my Dad’s side of the family’s lineage dating all the way back to 1700’s Germany…)…..The # of pots we have our hands in right now is insane.

But, as I was sitting and talking to my uncle’s sister on Saturday, telling her about bras and fit and the brands I love for a half hour – poor girl, I chat her ear off – I kept thinking “This is what I want to do!”. But I’ve thought that about so many of my other projects. And yes, somehow, the schedule always works out, and I am able to get everything done. But how would I start a lingerie boutique?

I wish I was the kind of person that could choose one thing to be passionate about and devote all of my time towards that one thing. There are pros and cons to being the way I am (see: unfocused), and sometimes I only see the pros and others just the cons. Admittedly, I’m not sure where I’m going with this. Just kind of stream of consciousness.

In other news, I’m hosting my first bra fit workshop in a couple weeks! I am aching to share what I have learned and what I know with the women in my life, so I’m inviting a group of ladies over to my house to talk about bras, how they should fit, and how they can help their friends and family, too. Obviously, I have nothing to sell except for the big message: every woman should know how a bra is supposed to fit her, that way she can make an informed decision when she is out shopping, or when she is fit by someone in a store (i.e. Victoria’s Secret, Lane Bryant, etc…).

I guess in a way, this is my contribution to the people in my life. I can’t actually start a lingerie boutique right now, but at least I can help to educate other women 🙂

And now, I have probably spent enough time distracting myself from my thesis…

Happy Monday!

 

Size Misconceptions at Victoria’s Secret

I’ve never been one to shop at Victoria’s Secret for a handful of reasons. My boobs are too big for their bras, and I have always been plus sized (wearing typically a size 22 or larger in pants). Admittedly, in American culture, there’s such a stress on being able to shop at VS. I’ve always felt like I was missing out on something, or that maybe I was less of a woman because I could not shop at VS because of my size. I mean, c’mon….the place OOOZES sexiness. Who doesn’t want a piece of that?

Anyways, a few years ago I had heard that the VS Pink lounge pants ran fairly big. It was something I brushed off, thinking “They can’t possibly run as big as I need them to…”

A couple weeks ago, I double checked the sizing chart on the VS website for their Campus Lounge Pants to see if I really could measure up and try the pants out that every woman who tries them raves about.

 

Photo from Victoria’s Secret.com

 

Size chart from VS website for campus pants:

Size	XS0	XS2	S4	S6	M8	M10	L12	L14	XL16
Bust (in.)	32.5	33	34.5	35.5	36.5	37.5	39	40.5	42.5
Waist (in.)	24	25	26	27	28	29	30.5	32	34
Hip (in.)	34.5	35.5	36.5	37.5	38.5	39.5	41	42.5	44.5
Thigh (in.)	20.5	21	21.5	22	22.5	23	24	25	26.5

 

So, the last time I checked…my under bust measures 53″”, my waist 40″, my hips 48″, and my thighs about 27″. Based on this chart, it does not appear as though I could really even smash myself into a VS XL. Which is fine; I wear 20’s in pants, and even up to a 24 in some brands. But, I thought….why the heck not?

On Wednesday when I met with Suzanne from Eveden, my husband and I decided to do some shopping afterwards (we WERE by the mall after all…), and I wanted to stop into VS to try the pants on. I could complain for hours about the terrible service that I received, but let me sum it up in a couple sentences: We were completely ignored when we walked into the store – no hello, no nothing. I walked by a group of four women talking and they did not acknowledge me. Never having shopped in a VS before, it took me a while to find what I was looking for. Granted, they do not have XLs in the store (at least not in lounge pants) so I started to feel even more out of place. I grabbed the campus pants in a large and figured I would try them on. To get to the fitting room, I had to walk from “PINK” through the beauty and makeup section to the actual bra shop. In beauty, there was an associate trying on lipstick. In the bra area? Four women standing in a circle laughing. I asked for a fitting room and got some rude looks as I was led back to try the pants on. I put them on and VOILA! A large fit my plus-sized, big belly body. When I walked out to show them to my husband, a handful of associates turned around with shock on their faces that the pants actually fit me.

Had it not been for the insane comfort of the pants, I would have walked out without buying anything. But I decided that my own desire to have comfy sweats this winter was more important than being snubbed by rude sales associates.

Okay, I said I wouldn’t complain…..but….I was so appalled by how I was treated in that store.

But I digress….

It’s possible that there ARE more options for plus sized women at VS than I originally thought. I was curious about the sizing of the campus pants the other day and held them up to a new pair of jeans that I just bought at Torrid (the same day we stopped at VS). The jeans I bought are skinny jeans – I can review them if readers are interested – in a size 24. They run small, but they are a great fit once you figure them out (on the torrid size chart, I measure into a size 20 – which fit in their boot cut jeans, but not the Sophia skinny jeans).

 

Size chart from http://www.Torrid.com

Torrid Sizes	Bust	Waist	Low Hip
12	39″	32″	41″
14	41″	34″	43″
16	43″	36″	45″
18	45″	38″	47″
20	47″	40″	49″
22	49″	42″	51″
24	51″	44″	53″
26	53″	46″	55″
28	55″	48″	57″

 

The waist measurement of size 24 jeans on their sizing chart is 44″, but keep in mind that the skinny jeans I have run a size small (so the measurements are more related to a size 22). When I held up the  VS campus pants to these new jeans, the VS pants – not stretched – are 2″ smaller – so the waist size is actually 40″ instead of the 32″ that they list on their sizing chart. 

Which means that a VS size Large in their campus pants will actually fit most women up to a US size 20. On top of this, I would say that there is a good 4″ worth of stretch in the waist band. So realistically, it’s possible that women who wear a US size 24 could wear these pants.

Now, the same cannot be said about all of VS’s bottoms, i.e. panties, other styles of pants, etc. But if you’re looking for a pair of the most comfortable pants you will ever own and are willing to throw down $46.50, and you happen to be plus sized….know that just because the tag says “L” does not mean that you cannot wear these pants.

Happy October and have a great Monday! 🙂

 

To Hand Wash or Not To Hand Wash?

In more than one response to my blog The Current State of Wear  a few women talked about the pros and cons of machine washing v. hand washing bras.

Admittedly, I have never used a lingerie wash bag in the washer. I have one, but I have never used it. When I was wearing bras that didn’t fit (and also cost less), I would always throw my bras in the washer – sans wash bag – and then hang them on the line to dry. I never seemed to have any problems, really. Yes, I would have wires pop out frequently….or the bras would come unhooked and would snag on each other. Sometimes wires would be bent out of shape. Okay, so yes, I had issues. Throwing bras in the washer without using a wash bag is a bad idea. I think we can all agree on that.

But are there benefits to using a washer vs. hand washing your bras?

Since I have started to spend more on bras (anywhere from $40-74), I have not been putting my bras anywhere near the washer. Oh no. They get washed by hand, with unscented lingerie wash. I fill the sink with warm water and some lingerie wash, pop some bras in – of like colors – and let them sit for a bit. Then I squish them up and down in the water, and gently rub the wires and elastics that go under the arm with my fingers. After that, I drain the water and refill the sink with non-soapy warm water. I let the bras sit again, then I squish around. Then, again, I drain the sink and I rinse each bra under the running water of the faucet. I’ve never had trouble getting all of the soap out of my bras. I tend to either (1) lay them flat on a dry towel to dry, or I hang them over the edge of the bath tub to drip dry. It takes anywhere from a couple of hours to overnight for my bras to dry.

I have always felt like the elastics go back to their normal shape and tension, AND my bras smell nice and clean.

But, the way that I wash my bras may not be the way that you wash your bras. I think we have to choose what works for us – whether we have time or we don’t to hand wash, whether we use lingerie wash or regular detergent and so on.

**Please take the poll and comment about your washing methods, especially if they are different from mine – and even if not. I am very curious to learn how other women wash their bras 🙂 ***

 

 

Previews: Elomi, Fantasie and Freya

I’m going to write about my experience meeting with Suzanne from Eveden, but I want to break up the experience into two posts. This post will focus on the bras from the upcoming season that I got to touch with my own little paws….and let me tell you….they are DELIGHTFUL. We were hanging out in Panera Bread and I apologize to the people sitting next to us whom were shocked when Suzanne was laying the bras on the table 🙂

Elomi “Maggie”

Elomi “Maggie” in Black

The fabric, admittedly, looks a little shiny, but it’s not that terrible in person. When I first saw this I thought “CHRISTMAS!!”. Very cute and a lower gore than the “Caitlyn” bra.

Maggie Chemise

Elomi “Maggie” Chemise

This chemise is GORGEOUS… The fabric of the lower half is really soft and has the most delicate rolled hem at the bottom. It’s a fairly simple piece. My biggest complaint about this? The price point of $86.00…..which is w/out matching panties. The Maggie panties are $24.00, making the set a whopping $110.00. I told Suzanne it would be nice if the chemise came with a thong or a g-string, but we also talked about how the benefit to having to get panties separately is for those with size differences in tops and bottoms. I don’t know if you know this – I’m kind of frugal. I wouldn’t say cheap, but I choose to spend my money on nice things that I can’t live without. I suppose I could live without the Maggie chemise because of the price.

Elomi “Paloma”

Elomi “Paloma”

Elomi “Paloma”

What was really striking, for me, was the color of the Paloma in person. From the photos in the press release, it looks like the Paloma is going to be almost a royal blue. BUT, the bra itself is actually a deep, rich purple. The bra is a padded half cup (yay!), but only goes up to a G cup. Suzanne told me that this does run true to size, so anyone who is sized out is – unfortunately – sized out. (Unlike the Freya ‘Faye’ which is roomier in the band). I want this bra, and I want it NOW.

Elomi “Valentina”

Elomi “Valentina”

Elomi “Valentina”

LOOK at those rosettes!!!

Want, want, want! I love this bra! The cups are made of Satin Simplex and stretch lace. Of course, this bra screams valentine’s day, but it is truly gorgeous. I love the low (see: very low) center gore, the rosettes on the center gore and straps, and just everything about this bra. This bra is fit on the Betty frame, so it should be something that Betty lovers will also like.

Comparison of Valentina and Maggie

In comparing the Valentina and the Maggie, you can see the huge difference in gore height. The Maggie also has more side coverage.

That’s all of my pictures of Elomi bras; It’s important to also note that all of the bras (except for the Paloma) feature 4-part cups to push tissue forward instead of the side. These are all so gorgeous and soft and feminine. ❤

Fantasie “Susanna” 

Fantasie “Susanna” in Black

I cannot say enough good things about the Susanna. It is definitely a relaxed cup (think Andorra), and the materials are so. incredibly. soft. The lower cup and the upper lace cup are equally, amazingly soft. I want to wear this bra. Suzanne told me that the Susanna is true to size and for those that it works for, it is a perfect fit, hugging the body in all the right ways. WANT.

Freya “Carys” Longline

Freya “Carys”

Freya “??” I cannot for the life of me remember the name of this bra. Please comment if you know it!! 

Freya

As you can see, there are some GREAT options coming soon from Eveden group. If you want to know more about release dates, sizing and price points, check out Erica’s brand overviews at A Sophisticated Pair’s Blog….

**What do you think of these upcoming styles? Do you love them as much as I do???**

Highlight: Elomi “Roxy” Longline

Photo courtesy of Elomi

 

 

I was contacted by Alexis at Eveden Group (Freya, Fantasie, Goddess, Elomi, etc…) last week and she kindly sent me the AW12/SS13 catalogs and image discs. She also helped me to set up a meeting with their fit specialist, Suzanne (whom I am meeting with today).

This is definitely a huge moment for me as a blogger, and I am so excited to have my first meet and greet. For this reason, I am so stoked to share my biggest lust, the Roxy Longline by Elomi, which comes next summer. I cannot wait for this bra!

Happy Wednesday!