Bra Shopping is my most beloved activity and I am on a mission to create a Dublin catalogue on them! I l love Dublin - it a beautiful, and handily one of the most compact cites in the world. You could walk from Ranelagh to Mary Street in an hour, easy. Most of these locations are really near each other and prices should always be compared. However, to my knowledge there is no real comprehensive list - with reviews and directions!
After giving a brief taster on the last two posts I have decided to go bra shopping so you don't have too! ... so get forwarding the funds to my PayPal Account!
I have catalogued them into North, Southside (i.e. which side of the river they are on - no this isn't a Southside prejudice to the Northside or whatever, it's for ease of cataloguing them... :) ) and Suburbs!
Note 1: I have yet to visit Peaches and Cream and Intimate Lingerie.
Note 2:
This list is not comprehensive (yet!) so expect updates!
Southside:
Bramora on Earlsfort Terrence - Review - Directions - Website
Peaches and Cream on South
Anne Street - Review - Directions - Website
Marks and Spencers on Grafton Street - Review - Directions - Website
TK Maxx in the Stephen's Green Shopping Centre - Review - Directions - Website
Intimate Lingerie on Tara Street - Review - Directions - Website
Northside:
Debenhams in the Ilac Centre, Henry Street - Review - Directions - Website
Marks and Spencers on Mary Street - Review - Directions - Website
Arnotts on Henry Street - Review - Directions - Website
Suburbs:
Cupcakes Lingerie on Main Street, Ranelagh, D6 - Review - Directions - Website
Debenhams in the Frascati Centre, Blackrock, County Dublin - Review - Directions - Website
Saturday, 30 March 2013
The Lingerie Adventure - Southside Part 1: Grafton Street
(Note: I wrote this several months ago before starting this blog and yes, most of the facts seem the same from checking these shops recently too!)
Today I decided to go less personal than a boutique and check out TK MAXX and Marks and Spencers.
Vital Stats:
Name: TK Maxx, Stephen's Green Shopping Centre
Location: Stephen's Green Shopping Centre - in through the front doors, up the stairs and on the left wall. Go in until until you see that the shop is shaped like a T. Go right along the wall. The lingerie is about 2 shelves back.
Website: http://www.ilac.ie/stores/debenhams/
Sizes Available: They have a surprisingly good collection, in fact I'd call it my secret. However, caps at FF. No 28s, just 30s and a very small bra rack.
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Selections will vary. A lot. As TK MAXX sells whatever the designers offload on them, don't hold out for a style you like in your size, it is completely lucky dip. Freya, Fantastie, Wonderbra, Mimi Holiday, Damaris, Parfait.
Ordering Service: Nope. If it's not in your size, you're stuck.
Price: Well, here is always a 30FF bra in there, usually for a 1 euro! Less than a tenner. By far the cheapest.
Fitting Service: Non-existent.
Summary: Okay, the tiniest size range and the best price... You could spot me as the confused girl grabbing the biggest bras she can see! I think wearing the one euro bras it on the tightest setting can be justified when it's that cheap, eh? I saw Freya knickers in there today and a tiny bra, but sadly no 28GG/Hs marked down to a euro under the horrible old lady Triumph and gel padded numbers. I can live in hope! Also in the picture... that screen's long gone. Maybe I should take my own picture!
Name: Marks and Spencers, 15-20 Grafton Street.
Location: Just walk down Grafton St. It's unmissable!
Website: http://www.marksandspencer.ie/Grafton-St/STORE%2012%20Grafton%20St,en_IE,pg.html
Sizes Available: Meh... clearly stuck in the Plus 4 mentality. 28 bands have been phased out... 30A - 40G (They say GG, but they skip FF so ignore that. 30GGs are never there either. Urgh.)
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Their own brand selection.
Ordering Service: You can buy onlin with free in-store collection!
Price: Average. Between 20-30 - their sale rank has vanished recently though!
Fitting Service: The worst. AVOID. Keep your breasts away from them.
Summary: Utterly depressing people get fitted in there... *cough* me *cough* If you avoid all that their stuff isn't horrific. That said I loathe how they have such a large section of horrid minimiser style bras. Just stop.
As a bonus! (Aren't you so excited!)... I have decided to do a little review of Marks and Spencers!
As they have a full bust girl on their marketing campaign poster outside (Rosie Huntington-Whitley) and I have seen 28 backs in there in the past, I will be honest... I had to be a little optimistic.
I have to say I was surprised to see their Limited Collection (designed to fit into an extended outside of the ridiculous 34A - 36DD range people cram themselves into). I thought they had phased it out, as I was in their Blackrock Store. This time, however, they were without 28 backs. What a step back! But they do have a decent size range - 30-40 DD-GG (in reality to G as they don't stock FF).
I decided to try the largest size I could find that didn't have a band I could loop around me twice. So I decided on a 30G(FF) and a 32G(FF). I wasn't hopeful. I was hoping I'd find 28's marked down somewhere.
You may want to sit down for this bit.
Sitting comfortably?
It was a very pretty bra.
It was actually quite a (long list of adjectives here): a saucy, monochrome, leopard print, moulded plunge number. Admittedly, I'm not a fan of such bras but I have a friend who would die of happiness in such a sexy number, so I tried it on in spirit of her ways.
Well, she would have loved it. I don't do these bras because I'm not a cleavage or moulded girl and the fact they never fit me right, I have to say this was very successful. I had perfectly round breasts that seemed to hover. The low plunge shape still remained supportive (I wouldn't want to run it it, but I could walk) while giving me, yes, me, perfect cleavage. I loathe cleavage. It screams to me, horrible squashing bra. Well, that didn't happen in this bra. The breasts just touched, but didn't smoosh.
Over a t-shirt, I noticed that I had tiny quadboob in my left boob. However, this isn't a t-shirt bra. I think this bra is for vest tops and such numbers, though the fabric was visible through my yellow vest. I think it was look rather sassy under a black vest with a matching pattern. The straps were a tad worrisome as I'm a fan of wider straps, though they didn't dig into me.
I decided 24 euro was pretty good value, so I went out to ask if they had any 30GG(G) available, as I can't exactly purchase a bra that's that much bigger than my measurements. I wonder if this mythic 30GG (I couldn't find a single one in the shop) would have made the bra much more supportive. The women in the shop just suggested I go up a band size from a 32G(FF)... Serious madness. If they had half a chance I bet they'd squash me into white, matronly 34DD. This is why I'd rather support (terrible pun) boutiques that actually offer a decent fitting.
Their website doesn't mention the existence of this bra in 30GG(G) bra. Whether it's sold out or unavailable remains to be seen. Nonetheless, if you are a 30-40 DD-G cup, a large range of these sizes are accommodated in in M & S Grafton Street. It didn't exactly set my soul on fire.
Today I decided to go less personal than a boutique and check out TK MAXX and Marks and Spencers.
Vital Stats:
Name: TK Maxx, Stephen's Green Shopping CentreLocation: Stephen's Green Shopping Centre - in through the front doors, up the stairs and on the left wall. Go in until until you see that the shop is shaped like a T. Go right along the wall. The lingerie is about 2 shelves back.
Website: http://www.ilac.ie/stores/debenhams/
Sizes Available: They have a surprisingly good collection, in fact I'd call it my secret. However, caps at FF. No 28s, just 30s and a very small bra rack.
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Selections will vary. A lot. As TK MAXX sells whatever the designers offload on them, don't hold out for a style you like in your size, it is completely lucky dip. Freya, Fantastie, Wonderbra, Mimi Holiday, Damaris, Parfait.
Ordering Service: Nope. If it's not in your size, you're stuck.
Price: Well, here is always a 30FF bra in there, usually for a 1 euro! Less than a tenner. By far the cheapest.
Fitting Service: Non-existent.
Summary: Okay, the tiniest size range and the best price... You could spot me as the confused girl grabbing the biggest bras she can see! I think wearing the one euro bras it on the tightest setting can be justified when it's that cheap, eh? I saw Freya knickers in there today and a tiny bra, but sadly no 28GG/Hs marked down to a euro under the horrible old lady Triumph and gel padded numbers. I can live in hope! Also in the picture... that screen's long gone. Maybe I should take my own picture!
Name: Marks and Spencers, 15-20 Grafton Street.Location: Just walk down Grafton St. It's unmissable!
Website: http://www.marksandspencer.ie/Grafton-St/STORE%2012%20Grafton%20St,en_IE,pg.html
Sizes Available: Meh... clearly stuck in the Plus 4 mentality. 28 bands have been phased out... 30A - 40G (They say GG, but they skip FF so ignore that. 30GGs are never there either. Urgh.)
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Their own brand selection.
Ordering Service: You can buy onlin with free in-store collection!
Price: Average. Between 20-30 - their sale rank has vanished recently though!
Fitting Service: The worst. AVOID. Keep your breasts away from them.
Summary: Utterly depressing people get fitted in there... *cough* me *cough* If you avoid all that their stuff isn't horrific. That said I loathe how they have such a large section of horrid minimiser style bras. Just stop.
As a bonus! (Aren't you so excited!)... I have decided to do a little review of Marks and Spencers!
As they have a full bust girl on their marketing campaign poster outside (Rosie Huntington-Whitley) and I have seen 28 backs in there in the past, I will be honest... I had to be a little optimistic.
I have to say I was surprised to see their Limited Collection (designed to fit into an extended outside of the ridiculous 34A - 36DD range people cram themselves into). I thought they had phased it out, as I was in their Blackrock Store. This time, however, they were without 28 backs. What a step back! But they do have a decent size range - 30-40 DD-GG (in reality to G as they don't stock FF).
I decided to try the largest size I could find that didn't have a band I could loop around me twice. So I decided on a 30G(FF) and a 32G(FF). I wasn't hopeful. I was hoping I'd find 28's marked down somewhere.
You may want to sit down for this bit.
Sitting comfortably?
It was a very pretty bra.
It was actually quite a (long list of adjectives here): a saucy, monochrome, leopard print, moulded plunge number. Admittedly, I'm not a fan of such bras but I have a friend who would die of happiness in such a sexy number, so I tried it on in spirit of her ways.
Here it is from their website.
I should be the model (though I'd demand one made in a 30GG(G))! No
need to Photoshop the cleavage like that. I actually looked good in it
without need for electronic trickery! ;)
Well, she would have loved it. I don't do these bras because I'm not a cleavage or moulded girl and the fact they never fit me right, I have to say this was very successful. I had perfectly round breasts that seemed to hover. The low plunge shape still remained supportive (I wouldn't want to run it it, but I could walk) while giving me, yes, me, perfect cleavage. I loathe cleavage. It screams to me, horrible squashing bra. Well, that didn't happen in this bra. The breasts just touched, but didn't smoosh.
Over a t-shirt, I noticed that I had tiny quadboob in my left boob. However, this isn't a t-shirt bra. I think this bra is for vest tops and such numbers, though the fabric was visible through my yellow vest. I think it was look rather sassy under a black vest with a matching pattern. The straps were a tad worrisome as I'm a fan of wider straps, though they didn't dig into me.
I decided 24 euro was pretty good value, so I went out to ask if they had any 30GG(G) available, as I can't exactly purchase a bra that's that much bigger than my measurements. I wonder if this mythic 30GG (I couldn't find a single one in the shop) would have made the bra much more supportive. The women in the shop just suggested I go up a band size from a 32G(FF)... Serious madness. If they had half a chance I bet they'd squash me into white, matronly 34DD. This is why I'd rather support (terrible pun) boutiques that actually offer a decent fitting.
Their website doesn't mention the existence of this bra in 30GG(G) bra. Whether it's sold out or unavailable remains to be seen. Nonetheless, if you are a 30-40 DD-G cup, a large range of these sizes are accommodated in in M & S Grafton Street. It didn't exactly set my soul on fire.
Friday, 29 March 2013
The Lingerie Adventure - Northside Part 1: Henry Street's Offerings Part 1
I love Henry Street - you know it's the finest shopping street in Dublin because you have to navigate through swaths of people to get anywhere in it. There is a true balance between (as Wikipedia phrases it) "the Ilac Shopping Centre [with its] many interesting and lower budget shops" (which is an odd thing to say it has an Debenhams!), and then just odd little spots like super extravagant Arnotts and the adorable fabric shop, Hickeys. Oh and it has loads of shoe shops. Not to mention the library in the Ilac Centre. And Iceland (also in the Ilac Centre). So to stop myself fawning over my beloved Ilac (I saw an ad for it on TV and squealed!).
The Ilac Centre also houses Debenhams, which I am going to crown the best place to shop for bras in Dublin.
Vital Stats/Dating Profile:
Name: Debenhams, Ilac Centre
Location: Henry Street
Website: http://www.ilac.ie/stores/debenhams/
Sizes Available: I have seen from 28A to 30J and I'm sure they have more! Loads of 28 backs (the only place I have seen them on shelves! Sadly, 28s but only to G.
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Gorgeous, Freya, Fantastie, Wonderbra, Gossard, Shock Absorber.
Ordering Service: Yes.
Price: Very cheap - some bras are 5 euro reduced. Many Gorgeous bras are 25 or so. Everything else is standard enough though they seem to have good sales!
Fitting Service: Dire. Avoid!
Summary: Heaven for DIY fitters... the staff have never tried to help me! I'm just tiny girl with the giant pile of giant bras. I think they know me in there. Oh er! Erm! Shout-out!
The store is beautifully located where you can see a the Spire dramatically in the background of the picture (stolen from GoogleMaps oh er!)... shame about the lingerie section being up three flights of stairs.
Name: Arnotts
Location: Henry Street (right across the street from the Ilac!)
Website: http://www.arnotts.ie/aspx/homepage.aspx
Sizes Available: I don't know much about the smaller sizes, but a lack of 28 bands, 30 bands are rare enough. Mainly larger bands, but there are larger cups. There were 36Js.
Ordering Service: Yes.
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Fantasie (so much Fantasie!), Freya, Panache, Shock Absorber, Simon Perle, Wacoal (I have never seen Wacoal until now!)
Price: Sadly, not competitive, about 45 euro for a Panache Andorra. Not shocking, but even with their sale on out of my budget. No 28 backs anyways.
Fitting Service: Seems okay - I overhead them fitting a 34D into a 30F and she sounded surprised that her straps weren't falling down. Sadly I can't personally vouch for it. On the whole it doesn't sound bad! :)
Summary: Expensive but a pretty store with brands I haven't spotted elsewhere in Dublin - sadly no Cleo or Masquerade.
What a luxurious shop - the changing rooms are a beautiful silvery grey and massive (with two giant mirrors), with a transparent chair. I think I'll take a picture next time! It screams luxury! Arnotts has changed its design since Google Maps' picture.
Their is another lingerie shop on Henry Street - Marks and Spencers. They also have a store on Grafton Street - which I will discuss next!
The Ilac Centre also houses Debenhams, which I am going to crown the best place to shop for bras in Dublin.
Vital Stats/Dating Profile:Name: Debenhams, Ilac Centre
Location: Henry Street
Website: http://www.ilac.ie/stores/debenhams/
Sizes Available: I have seen from 28A to 30J and I'm sure they have more! Loads of 28 backs (the only place I have seen them on shelves! Sadly, 28s but only to G.
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Gorgeous, Freya, Fantastie, Wonderbra, Gossard, Shock Absorber.
Ordering Service: Yes.
Price: Very cheap - some bras are 5 euro reduced. Many Gorgeous bras are 25 or so. Everything else is standard enough though they seem to have good sales!
Fitting Service: Dire. Avoid!
Summary: Heaven for DIY fitters... the staff have never tried to help me! I'm just tiny girl with the giant pile of giant bras. I think they know me in there. Oh er! Erm! Shout-out!
The store is beautifully located where you can see a the Spire dramatically in the background of the picture (stolen from GoogleMaps oh er!)... shame about the lingerie section being up three flights of stairs.
Name: ArnottsLocation: Henry Street (right across the street from the Ilac!)
Website: http://www.arnotts.ie/aspx/homepage.aspx
Sizes Available: I don't know much about the smaller sizes, but a lack of 28 bands, 30 bands are rare enough. Mainly larger bands, but there are larger cups. There were 36Js.
Ordering Service: Yes.
Brands I noted (note too that I have strong bias towards full-bust): Fantasie (so much Fantasie!), Freya, Panache, Shock Absorber, Simon Perle, Wacoal (I have never seen Wacoal until now!)
Price: Sadly, not competitive, about 45 euro for a Panache Andorra. Not shocking, but even with their sale on out of my budget. No 28 backs anyways.
Fitting Service: Seems okay - I overhead them fitting a 34D into a 30F and she sounded surprised that her straps weren't falling down. Sadly I can't personally vouch for it. On the whole it doesn't sound bad! :)
Summary: Expensive but a pretty store with brands I haven't spotted elsewhere in Dublin - sadly no Cleo or Masquerade.
What a luxurious shop - the changing rooms are a beautiful silvery grey and massive (with two giant mirrors), with a transparent chair. I think I'll take a picture next time! It screams luxury! Arnotts has changed its design since Google Maps' picture.
Their is another lingerie shop on Henry Street - Marks and Spencers. They also have a store on Grafton Street - which I will discuss next!
Sunday, 17 March 2013
How To Stop Bra Straps Falling Down!
Before I was fitted into my bra size (based off something crazy like my measurements), New Look were the only shop that actually had bras that were unpadded (sometimes), not designed for old women and I could squeeze myself into (sometimes). I had a balonette that was deep pink that wore until it fell apart. The straps were always falling down - because the bra was far too small and it was so old the straps had forgot what elasticity was.
I remember I was after this guy and the most common thing he used to say to me always arrogantly, (except perhaps concern over how I knew his schedule off my heart!) was: "your bra strap is down again".
I wonder if he thought that I was trying to seduce him with my weird and tattered pink and purple straps. In a fit of frustration I used overweight baggage tape to hold the straps together.Yes. Overweight baggage.
This is the most frequent bra fitting problem I see. In fact, my friends have asked me to fix their bra straps, because I am the mysterious lingerie expert and that's where my skills lie. Every time I suggest they should also tighten the back. The ALWAYS whine that makes no sense and make it worse.
Actually, tightening the bra straps makes the problem of loose bra straps worse.
Yes! A bra is a system - every part is linked. Here's the real solution.
A bra's back should be tight. Really tight. Think how tight a bra should be and forget that. Tighter. Very tight.
This keeps the straps in place. When a bra is too loose (i.e. all my friends bras) the back crawls upwards. This makes the straps rise of the shoulders. When you tighten your straps, the bra back crawls upwards... then your straps fall down.
The solution is to tighten the back of your bra. Well, this isn't usually enough. The solution is a bra that is much larger in the cup and tighter in the band. Try tightening your back band and then tightening your straps. Then scoop yourself into your bra. Are you everywhere from Cork to Derry (think that was a metaphor)? Yeah, that bra is wrong.
A second reason is that cup is too small. Coupled with loose bands, the weight of the breasts drags up the band... and the straps fall down. Those friends would refuse to believe their breasts weigh anything because they believe they have no breasts... errr no. I've seen you trapped in clothes because of your breasts just like me... ;)
I know some people have sloping shoulders, and yes that does effect bra strap security. But when I refitted my mother and my best friend they both told me their bra straps mysteriously stopped falling down.
Anyways, if you want to learn more check out the Bra Matrix and My Wife is Busty Fitting Guide. I won't be making my own fitting guide because I believe these two are great and I don't think at the moment I can do anything better. But I implore you to check it out! You WON'T regret it. Overweight baggage tape is not something that can look cute with a frilly dress. Go on. Go on.
I remember I was after this guy and the most common thing he used to say to me always arrogantly, (except perhaps concern over how I knew his schedule off my heart!) was: "your bra strap is down again".
I wonder if he thought that I was trying to seduce him with my weird and tattered pink and purple straps. In a fit of frustration I used overweight baggage tape to hold the straps together.Yes. Overweight baggage.
This is the most frequent bra fitting problem I see. In fact, my friends have asked me to fix their bra straps, because I am the mysterious lingerie expert and that's where my skills lie. Every time I suggest they should also tighten the back. The ALWAYS whine that makes no sense and make it worse.
Actually, tightening the bra straps makes the problem of loose bra straps worse.
Yes! A bra is a system - every part is linked. Here's the real solution.
A bra's back should be tight. Really tight. Think how tight a bra should be and forget that. Tighter. Very tight.
This keeps the straps in place. When a bra is too loose (i.e. all my friends bras) the back crawls upwards. This makes the straps rise of the shoulders. When you tighten your straps, the bra back crawls upwards... then your straps fall down.
The solution is to tighten the back of your bra. Well, this isn't usually enough. The solution is a bra that is much larger in the cup and tighter in the band. Try tightening your back band and then tightening your straps. Then scoop yourself into your bra. Are you everywhere from Cork to Derry (think that was a metaphor)? Yeah, that bra is wrong.
A second reason is that cup is too small. Coupled with loose bands, the weight of the breasts drags up the band... and the straps fall down. Those friends would refuse to believe their breasts weigh anything because they believe they have no breasts... errr no. I've seen you trapped in clothes because of your breasts just like me... ;)
I know some people have sloping shoulders, and yes that does effect bra strap security. But when I refitted my mother and my best friend they both told me their bra straps mysteriously stopped falling down.
Anyways, if you want to learn more check out the Bra Matrix and My Wife is Busty Fitting Guide. I won't be making my own fitting guide because I believe these two are great and I don't think at the moment I can do anything better. But I implore you to check it out! You WON'T regret it. Overweight baggage tape is not something that can look cute with a frilly dress. Go on. Go on.
My Wish List for bras that actually exist!
I have noticed that a lot of my favourite blogs have been posting various wishlists about lingerie they are interested in.
I have decided to detail the bras I am interested in. The twist is that actually exist, at this moment that could actually order it. I feel a bit guilty as I live of the state and all... erm... I'd get them on the medical card if I could?
Miss Mandalay Paige in Coral.
I love Miss Mandalay's Paige bras because of three reasons -
1. They are tight in the band (I will never understand throwing out a bra because it's a little tight... extenders exist!)... it's very rare I find a bra that's too tight...
2. They are unmoulded
3. They are available in amazing colours with great details
4. The wires and narrow and stiff (I don't get the hate on stiff wires)
5. A girl once saw my brastrap and said that she was wearing the most beautiful bra she had ever seen!
See how amazing these are... *sigh*
2. Panache Andorra Full Cup in Caribbean Blue
Sadly, I will admit I had a chance to try one of these on, but I turned it down. It looked like a lot of bra. A lot of white bra. I think it will take me a lot (read: branding it on me) for me to have on of them on as well.
Yet, the Panache Andorra Full Cup has been warming on me. BrasIHate mentioned how in the plunge bra version has an angled downwards band. Generally people have been saying it's forgiving in the cup and tight in the band. It's actually available in other colours. Perhaps I should give it a chance. I am terrified the wires will be too wide.
The weirdest thing about this bra is, as you can see on Bratabase, it's way prettier in the flesh (lace?) than in the product photo. It looks photoshopped on there, yet on Bratabase, it looks so gorgeous I want to try it. Panache, take note!
Why blue? Well, I would like something that is summery...
The Freya Jolie.
I have tried this bra on, but in 30G, so it was VERY loose in the band - especially when people have said that was loose anyways. Of course, the 28GG is probably a monster that comes with extra wide ultra support, iron girders and double-glazed cups.
Nonetheless, I remain optimistic because at the GG has three hooks which actually sounds like a decent decision. Though why not more... Yes ... I actually add extra hooks to my bras.
I'm excited because I like the stretchiness in the cups. Obviously, I don't want the white version, but the black (which is, as of these season, still a continuity style) or the pink look great!
I have decided to detail the bras I am interested in. The twist is that actually exist, at this moment that could actually order it. I feel a bit guilty as I live of the state and all... erm... I'd get them on the medical card if I could?
Miss Mandalay Paige in Coral.
I love Miss Mandalay's Paige bras because of three reasons -
1. They are tight in the band (I will never understand throwing out a bra because it's a little tight... extenders exist!)... it's very rare I find a bra that's too tight...
2. They are unmoulded
3. They are available in amazing colours with great details
4. The wires and narrow and stiff (I don't get the hate on stiff wires)
5. A girl once saw my brastrap and said that she was wearing the most beautiful bra she had ever seen!
See how amazing these are... *sigh*
2. Panache Andorra Full Cup in Caribbean Blue
Yet, the Panache Andorra Full Cup has been warming on me. BrasIHate mentioned how in the plunge bra version has an angled downwards band. Generally people have been saying it's forgiving in the cup and tight in the band. It's actually available in other colours. Perhaps I should give it a chance. I am terrified the wires will be too wide.
The weirdest thing about this bra is, as you can see on Bratabase, it's way prettier in the flesh (lace?) than in the product photo. It looks photoshopped on there, yet on Bratabase, it looks so gorgeous I want to try it. Panache, take note!
Why blue? Well, I would like something that is summery...
The Freya Jolie.
I have tried this bra on, but in 30G, so it was VERY loose in the band - especially when people have said that was loose anyways. Of course, the 28GG is probably a monster that comes with extra wide ultra support, iron girders and double-glazed cups.
Nonetheless, I remain optimistic because at the GG has three hooks which actually sounds like a decent decision. Though why not more... Yes ... I actually add extra hooks to my bras.
I'm excited because I like the stretchiness in the cups. Obviously, I don't want the white version, but the black (which is, as of these season, still a continuity style) or the pink look great!
Tuesday, 12 March 2013
You know you read too many lingerie blogs when...
Feel free you keep this as 'Lingerie Blogger Bingo'
1. You are always tearing out chunks of your hair in rage when you see the following: a). Side-boob, b.) riding up back bands c.) incredibly small straps on your larger busted friends (don't they hurt?)
2. All the bras in shops seem laughably, laughably small (even if you are smaller busted and they fit you, you're just that indoctrinated). For example, you think DD bras are nothing more than pasties.
3. You see your favourite bloggers sizes in shops/online and wonder if they would like that bra.
4. You consider a 32 back bras to be if anything, rather large comparatively on the size scale - the inverse of your friends/chain stores opinion.
5. You scoff at in store fittings and think of Busts4Justice.
6. You know the latest trends... because you've spotted them in the lingerie world.
7. You consider discovering your best well-fitting bra as the most ultimate beautiful revelation. You play them out in your head like the sob-stories on X Factor.
8. You refit your friends and go bra shopping/browse bras online with them.
9. You want to meet all your blogging heroines.
10. You dream of going to an event run by your favourite lingerie company.
11. You have a lot body confidence. (I had this already, though I'm not a big cleavage fan).
12. You see 24H and see it as a bra size, not 24 hours.
13. Poland? Is that were Kris Lane, Ewa, Biu Biu and Urkye are from aren't they?
14. You can recognise bras from your favourite brands in designer shop windows.
15. (Suggested by friend/sort of cook at my house) If you are in a relationship, you're the one obsessed with lingerie models.
16. You know the true meaning and value of a central gore.
17. You are no longer ignorant of what a sternum is.
1. You are always tearing out chunks of your hair in rage when you see the following: a). Side-boob, b.) riding up back bands c.) incredibly small straps on your larger busted friends (don't they hurt?)
2. All the bras in shops seem laughably, laughably small (even if you are smaller busted and they fit you, you're just that indoctrinated). For example, you think DD bras are nothing more than pasties.
3. You see your favourite bloggers sizes in shops/online and wonder if they would like that bra.
4. You consider a 32 back bras to be if anything, rather large comparatively on the size scale - the inverse of your friends/chain stores opinion.
5. You scoff at in store fittings and think of Busts4Justice.
6. You know the latest trends... because you've spotted them in the lingerie world.
7. You consider discovering your best well-fitting bra as the most ultimate beautiful revelation. You play them out in your head like the sob-stories on X Factor.
8. You refit your friends and go bra shopping/browse bras online with them.
9. You want to meet all your blogging heroines.
10. You dream of going to an event run by your favourite lingerie company.
11. You have a lot body confidence. (I had this already, though I'm not a big cleavage fan).
12. You see 24H and see it as a bra size, not 24 hours.
13. Poland? Is that were Kris Lane, Ewa, Biu Biu and Urkye are from aren't they?
14. You can recognise bras from your favourite brands in designer shop windows.
15. (Suggested by friend/sort of cook at my house) If you are in a relationship, you're the one obsessed with lingerie models.
16. You know the true meaning and value of a central gore.
17. You are no longer ignorant of what a sternum is.
In the red corner: Soft Cups! Moulded Cups v Soft Cups
Moulded Bras v. Soft Cup Bras: The Showdown.
I've decided to make my first bra post be a bit lighter.
Me and a close friend of mine have one big disagreement over bras - I like soft cup, she likes moulded/padded bras.
So to settle this dispute, I have decided to frame our argument the only way it can be settled. She draws a soft-cup bra protagonist in the most girly way possible and I will design a moulded-cup protagonist in a comprising position on an unicorn. No wait, that sounds familiar.
I'd like to mention she is about a 30E/F and I am about a 28GG. So we are similar enough in size, though our difference could lie in her love of cleavage and the fact I'm not into showing it.
Soft-Cup Bras:
1. Soft-Cup bras do not look like they could belong to your milliner.
I don't know what size moulded bras come to life.
Ergo... I believe Freya actually a reason for this discrepancy...
This season too!? Is Freya Taylor 28GG mean death in some foreign language?
Thankfully this amazing soft-cup number is available up to a K! (well not 38 JJ/K!). Not the same can be said about their lovely moulded up offering... only available in 30 backs and in much smaller cups!
(Why, it isn't just some silly size-phobia rooted in the fact they use the Plus 5 method after all.)
Moulded bras can be swarming bats crawling up the inside of your wardrobe. It must depends on the brand. I will say that moulded cups in my size are very hard to store (I find it very hard to close my drawer). This can make the cups appear massive as they can't be neatly folded away.
Simply saying that you can store more soft-cup bras, so you can buy more. Not to mention, they can't be used to smother said near friend as easily.
3. Give a more natural shape/Padding is the be-all and end all.
Moulded bras scare me cos they scream Penneys/Primark 34B ultra-quilted bras which are more padding than cup.
What is wrong with the actual (slightly pointed) shape of my breasts? What's wrong with perky, why distort them into a round shape? What I'm saying is that is possible to get a lifted shape through unmoulded bras too.
I once read a book where the protagonist put two mircowavable soup packets down her top! I didn't end up too badly, the other party-goers assumed she threw up, not that her chest exploded!
Finally, (if the previous paragraph hasn't caused you to burn every paddable bra you own as a preventive measure so that one day you don't go crazy wake up and decide to put Knorrs' soup into them) - you have been warned - give in and let them stay causal.
From that monologue, if you haven't lost me, I like the slightly pointed shape soft bras give. They're causal but they're still supportive.
If you'd like to see someone who rocks this look, I'd check out Undiegamer. :)
4. They exclude a grown-up aura.
Lacy soft cup bras are subtle, but attractive. When they're slightly see-through, it's a look from the grown ups! Our bras aren't from Penneys. Our bras aren't covered in hearts or spaceships with a racerback. We are fully fledged adults. Someone give me an adult card! Even when they're nude, they don't look like they're vying for all the attention. Check out this nude bra from Avocado, which I saw featured on Bra Fitting Cicade. It looks amazing in her pictures, it is a must see!
This picture is from Avocado's official website. The bra is called the Charlotte. I'd give the sizes but they're all through the link, but remember they are in EU sizes. :)
Could such a effect be made with a moulded bra?
5. Easier to fit.
Moulded bras also can be moulded to a shapes that, at least in my own experience can be hard to fit. I tried on a 30FF moulded bra in TK Maxx recently and it the cups were like huge flat sheets over my breasts that still remained far too small! I'd love to have tried a decent moulded bra just prior to this article to get a feel for a few new styles... like the Taylor *sob*
6. Easier to dry
Okay, this seems small, but moulded bras take an age to try.
6. Easier to dry
Okay, this seems small, but moulded bras take an age to try.
6. Soft Cups can be T-shirt bras too!
I don't get the argument that people need a soft cup for t-shirts or to cover nipples. I always wear soft-cup bras and I frequently wear thin fabrics. Never once have I seen my nipples showing and I live in a cold country! Here's an example from a bra I own:
Picture from Figleaves, this is the Freya Naomi.
See where the seam running vertically reaches the lace? That is always where my nipple is and the seam always keeps it from popping up(!) I recently read someone describe The Scoop Method on another website (unfortunately I've forgotten the URL, if I remember I will of course link it) and she explained that that is exactly why we this method of putting on a bra is the best way (as opposed to stuffing like a turkey! Her words, not mine).
I just gave a link to the must beautiful beige bra I have seen - I think it could work fine under my white shirts.
Finally, seam fear. As I just said, I live in a cold country, and most t-shirts are slightly thicker than paper-thin (it's okay to splash out a non-paper thin t-shirt!) and usually I have to wear an under layer (vest, body or slip) under everything in Spring/Autumn/Winter (and sometimes the Summer too!). In such a case, if your seams were visible they certainly wouldn't be after all that layering!
Well if you aren't ripping off your sweaty mouldy... I mean moulded bra for a beautiful soft-cup, decorated with the finer lace panels finer than those on Kate Middleton's wedding dress, maybe I can't change you completely. I would implore you to try out a soft-cup bra before you make your conclusion! I think you might not be a convert, but wearing a soft cup bra for even a day or two a week will make you feel like a little bit sultry, yet laid back. You owe your boobs. ;)
In my next post in this challenge, I will play devil's advocate with myself and extol the virtue of moulded bras (I might need some help, my love of soft cups is pretty visible!). Don't let my Naomi hear this, she'd be crushed.
It's not what it looks like, she's not even in my size! I swear baby!
I'd like to add this post was tongue in cheek - there's nothing wrong with moulded/padded cups, they aren't my personal thing! Perhaps I will get in my friend as a guest post writer for the second half.
Full-Slip Ups
From my previous post on bodies I have turned to slips, something else that has just no love.When I suggest to my friends they wear that dress with a slip they say, for example: "my mother wears them under her dresses when she goes out clubbing". Their mothers go out clubbing? Actually, my mum knows a 93 year old who goes out clubbing. Just because your foremothers wore slips doesn't make them valid items of clothing. We still wear vests and socks right, and slips are sexy sexy sexy and warm. Me and liking things warm.
I agree with their motto saving discarded treasures, and a lot of slips are like this! This amazing full-slip is from
THE HELL TRIANGLES. Sorry for no link. Honestly, I just lifted this from a listing on e-bay, I will replace this with my own picture when I get a chance.
*thundercrack*
I've heard that most clothing is made on a mannequin that has about 2 inches extra space for breasts. I need about 10 inches, so it wrinkles up, it's lumpy, why? Even the women who could ft doesn't mean it flatters them, because I don't know... they wear something called bras, nullifing the need for this designated space?
In short, it requires extra sewing to make something less flattering.
Thus, my slip search has been one that has been marred by this. I'm sorry to yack on, but the one thing that is just nonsensical from Refinery 29's otherwise quite succinct and informed article on the subject is the fact they say they provide support for "busty women". Because they really don't - unless (which is very rare, they are underwired). I love slips a lot, they are very useful, but that is not what they do.
The Cocoa Black White slip by StyleBari. Look at the model. Look at her determination. This is how I would feel in a beautifully coloured yet rather practical slip.
Leaving that tangent (linking to another article on the same subject, am I mad?), here are the following things that I love about slips.
1. Cost-saving -
A slip is a timeless investment, it really can't date (particularly if you don't show anyone it!) Slips prevent your dresses from stinking up from wear, allow you to wear your summer wardrobe all winter long and a well placed slip can change an outfit. For example, I have a magnolia bird print dress. With a black lacy slip underneath, black tights, ox blood boots and a maroon cardigan it gains some edge. Alternatively, with a pink block slip you can add a higher neckline and re purpose it as something tweer and wear what it to a conservative family event. Saved buying two dresses, eh?
Actually, a slip can be worn as a dress on its own for the brave (preferably a non-sheer one! I'll be honest, also preferably with a cardigan, but maybe this is a tad biased as I'm just not a massive underwear as outerwear fan!). I've done this when I've learnt male friends dresses and then I walked around in my slip!
2. Warm -
Layering on the slips not only rescues colder dresses, it also can be used as a way to warm up. A slip with adjustable straps can be pulled up as high as you like without exposing your mid-section to nightmarish cold. All this without the bulk of the vest-tucking scenario. You will also look less like you're swaddled in jackets and coats. A disadvantage is anything with indoor heating... oh god...
3. Double as nightwear in summer -
On the other hand, if the Irish summer shows, take solace being a 1940s film star for that night. Then you'll have to back to your tiger onsie you purchased (you can't remember) at Oxegen while drunk for for the remaining 11 months and 29 days or so. Well, I don't know how else you got that onsie.
Featured: Your shame and my non-sequitor.
3. Coverage -
The real reason slips are slippy so that your dresses/skirts will not cling to your crotch if they are unlined. Another reason I have availed off - if you aren't much of a cleavage person, you can use your slip to hide cleavage if you accidentaly wear your Deco and end up a business dinner. I think this looks particularly lovely with the beautiful patterns slips come in. They also hide your frilly patterned bras.
Well, I thought this was a causal event... maybe I should have brought my slip, but I'm so damn smouldering. [The Freya Deco in Iris, available in about 28-36 D-GG, but nonsensically not every size in that range...]
I hope I have convinced you to give slips a try. Nothing makes you feel like an extra from Upstairs Downstairs than shrieking "my slip is showing".
If I wrote an intro post it would look like this
What you actually need to know about me:
BRAS!!! *goes up a to lingerie shop's window and licks it*
Every time I walk past a beautiful specialist lingerie shop. I am so mad about bras and I look in the window and I ream off every full-bust bra they stock (sadly, I am less of an expert of their maternity range). My friends find my talent a tad disturbing so I have decided to bring my love to the internet.
I am saddened that through my year of adoration of bras and lingerie in general that I have came across there no Irish bra blogs. At least where I am based, Dublin, the retail sector, while expensive for a college student like me, is there and thriving.
I have seen blogs from Russia to Spain to Brasil and so many British blogs too. I am taking this into my own hands. I hope I can inject some 'craic' into bra knowledge and lingerie adoration. I don't want to keep my interest as something I cannot express. I am going to seriously ask the question Dougal posed: "how's your bra"?(I hope that didn't alienate half my readers right there).
Here are my aims:
1. Further bra fitting knowledge. (I am not going to post my own instructions, all I can say is take all measurements without a bra on and fuck everything you think you know about bra fitting)
2. Research into and analyse the Irish bra and general lingerie industry in Ireland, particular from a youthful perspective - all lovely lingerie is marketed to older women, while young women it's all beige foam domes!
2.(a). My first project will be an assessment of bra shops on the North and South side of Dublin.
3. Post clothing and bra reviews.
For the sake of reference, at the time of posting my measurements are 5 foot 7, 38/27/35 - with 27 being both my waist and underbust. I am usually a 28GG bra - though sometimes I would need a 28H or a 26H. I would rather someone burn my skin than be shoved in 34DD hell.
Finally, I would like to say this is not a place for the following things:
1. Smut. Fuck off. I don't desire it.
2. Body snark - I am not too thin/not curvy enough, nor is anyone else. This is not a place for that. My readers should respected.
3. "You should be happy to have problems with bras". I will smother you with a bra if you say that. As you sleep.
4. Saying that your bra is okay as it is. Perhaps it is but I severely doubt you couldn't do better. Please keep an open mind. No one knows or cares what kind of bra you wear. A lot of I know think I'm small chested because I like covering them up and are surprised when I make jokes about giving other busty women boob-hi-fives! ;)
Yours,
Street
BRAS!!! *goes up a to lingerie shop's window and licks it*
Every time I walk past a beautiful specialist lingerie shop. I am so mad about bras and I look in the window and I ream off every full-bust bra they stock (sadly, I am less of an expert of their maternity range). My friends find my talent a tad disturbing so I have decided to bring my love to the internet.
I am saddened that through my year of adoration of bras and lingerie in general that I have came across there no Irish bra blogs. At least where I am based, Dublin, the retail sector, while expensive for a college student like me, is there and thriving.
I have seen blogs from Russia to Spain to Brasil and so many British blogs too. I am taking this into my own hands. I hope I can inject some 'craic' into bra knowledge and lingerie adoration. I don't want to keep my interest as something I cannot express. I am going to seriously ask the question Dougal posed: "how's your bra"?
Here are my aims:
1. Further bra fitting knowledge. (I am not going to post my own instructions, all I can say is take all measurements without a bra on and fuck everything you think you know about bra fitting)
2. Research into and analyse the Irish bra and general lingerie industry in Ireland, particular from a youthful perspective - all lovely lingerie is marketed to older women, while young women it's all beige foam domes!
2.(a). My first project will be an assessment of bra shops on the North and South side of Dublin.
3. Post clothing and bra reviews.
For the sake of reference, at the time of posting my measurements are 5 foot 7, 38/27/35 - with 27 being both my waist and underbust. I am usually a 28GG bra - though sometimes I would need a 28H or a 26H. I would rather someone burn my skin than be shoved in 34DD hell.
Finally, I would like to say this is not a place for the following things:
1. Smut. Fuck off. I don't desire it.
2. Body snark - I am not too thin/not curvy enough, nor is anyone else. This is not a place for that. My readers should respected.
3. "You should be happy to have problems with bras". I will smother you with a bra if you say that. As you sleep.
4. Saying that your bra is okay as it is. Perhaps it is but I severely doubt you couldn't do better. Please keep an open mind. No one knows or cares what kind of bra you wear. A lot of I know think I'm small chested because I like covering them up and are surprised when I make jokes about giving other busty women boob-hi-fives! ;)
Yours,
Street
Sunday, 10 March 2013
Everybody! Rock those bodies/bodysuits
I took the time to write this post because I have seen no love, only confusion at what I consider a ultra-sexy, ultra-convent item of clothing.
This amazing bodysuit is from UglyDucklingGalAngel and it's screaming: "I'm hot in both senses of the word"
I wore a body every day (bar heatwaves) for about 3 years. For the uninitiated, a bodysuit, or a body is a one piece form-fitting garment that covers the torso and the crotch.
Yet my friends always have dubbed bodies are strange, uncomfortable, prone to popping open and dated. I'm trying to work this towards my own experience of being full-bust (and a full fan!) to a pro-body article that questions these concerns and of course, features some underwire bodies.
They were sadly de facto binders, yet they are so cosy and practical for the Irish winter (read: every day bar a day or two in June every second year). However, my love has been resparked since reading this inspirational post by Lamb from Lambs and Lace: http://oflambsandlace.blogspot.ie/2012/12/bodysuits.html.
Firstly, I'd like to detail what a good body should offer. Since I've stopped wearing mine, I find the 'tucking vest into leggings/tights' situation utterly impractical and nightmarish. How is fixing three poppers each time one goes to the toilet? Try retucking a vest the whole way around. A slip is also warm (also something I will feature), but is only wearable with a dress or skirt.
Poppers are essential for a body. If you buy one without any, sew some in. You cannot pull it enough to the side and you will not be arsed getting undressed. You will not save time and you will not save money you will probably strangle the nearest investigator of your situation with your stockings.
I believe the reason people loathe bodies is because of some weird going to toilet problem. If they do have poppers, then (as if always the case) I've heard complaints that they're likely to pop off! Now I'm a person where tight fitting clothes are in a constant fight with my body. My stomach and breasts are -believe me- fighting nobly... in unison against bodies. And mine have lasted the whole day without popping open most of secondary school. Overall, a body should have strong poppers. I think plastic poppers are generally worse than metal (from my own experience).
Another question about bodies is the fact they seem like they cling to bellies and look odd with trousers cutting them off. There are two solutions A second layer over it allows warmth (and keeps it on the qt if you think it's dated or clingy). I prefer the combo of a long-sleeved black body with leggings so I look like a ninja. Alternatively, if the second layer is semi- sheer, a body's pattern will be visible. It won't ride up and expose your lower back. It will always be the correct length (provided it is stretchy).
The second solution is to wear a skirt which looks more ballerina-cute than awkwardly 1980s (if you’re not a fan of the 1980s, and I will be honest, I love the 1970s so much more… perhaps I’ll write on flares too). This look also works with high waisted shorts and unlike a vest, will give you no bulk.
I’ve noticed some brilliant full-bust wired options (because I admit, normal bodies can be unflattering on that figure type). I am quite the teaser... showing you these bodies then you have to wait a whole season! Both the Freya and the All Done numbers are not available until next season.
All Undone Body. Their size range is 28-34 DD-GG. I hope this body is available in all those sizes... because I love it! I can't wait to get one!
Another body I'm very excited for was featured by Miss Underpinnings' preview in her Autumn/Winter 2013 collection for Freya.
The Freya Oh-La-La body. It is available in 30-36 D-G, small size range but wow!
Another option that actually exists is the Osaka body. Wow! Becky Mount reviews it here (and
I think the colour really suits her blonde hair). I love the white
panels. I thought that white panel would give the illusion of extra
pounds but it actually looks super bright and lovely.
Available from 30-34 B-G, or as I call it... maybe I can take in a 30G? This is how to do flower print and keep it fresh. From Gok Wan at Simply Yours.
This body is one of a kind, so measurements are through the link. It's from Cresent Moon Vintage.
Finally, I am just going to show this because it's velvet and shows the beautiful shorts/body combo. Warm, sexy, old-fashioned (but not dated) and will stay tucked in. If only it had underwire, eh? :)
Yours,
Street
Yours,
Street
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