Brastop Review: Curvy Kate Portia & Discount Code!

I love bargain hunting but it can be difficult finding what's considered specialist bra sizes anywhere, let alone be able to buy them cheap.  We don't always have the cash to pay full retail price but when you want to update your lingerie, what's a girl to do?

If you're a bargain hunting busty girl like me you may be familiar with Brastop - the online destination for big bra bargains!  

What's really great about Brastop is that there's always so much choice in a wide range of sizes (including 28 backs!) and the prices are incredibly low.  The reason the prices are lower than elsewhere is probably because the styles are predominantly last season but that's not necessarily a bad thing.  When you're looking for a specific collection that's no longer produced or simply looking for an affordable new bra set, you really can't fault them.  But, if you just want the current looks, you can get them here too.

Check out Brastop's huge D+ range and get an exclusive 10% off!  Simply use code: 'Becky10' when requested at the checkout.  

Offer expires 2nd Aug 2013.

Brastop are pretty unashamedly cheeky and proud of their assets, so much so they offer their beautiful customers the chance to be Brastop models with their Model of the Month competition.  I bet when Freya Pibworth entered last January's competition she never thought she'd end up in a video flaunting her best bits!

This is Brastop's nod to 'Russell Howard's Good News' title sequence only with a bra and pants clad paper model instead of Russell.  I think Freya has much more fun in this video...


Brastop kindly sent me the beautiful Curvy Kate Portia in the latest season's colour, Seafoam.  The dreamy aqua green is a stunning shade for summer and the raspberry pink ribbon trim just gives it a juicy edge.  Such a gorgeous colour combo.

I wanted to try a Curvy Kate because I've not yet fully checked out the brand.  There's usually speculation about sizing and knowing just what to order, so it was helpful to review the latest design.  I ordered a 28H in the bra and size 12 bottom.  
Portia is a light weight, unpadded balcony bra with a soft handle mesh fabric embroidered with a fancy diamond pattern.  The lower two sections of the cups are double layered with the upper section a sheer panel trimmed with laced ribbon and broderie anglais.  

The set fits really well and is super comfy.  The knickers are a short and, although lower than I usually would wear, they are fantastic on the butt!  I am really quite happy wearing them.

The band is a firm fit and spot on for size.  The cups fitted beautifully with all fabric laying flat and with no gaping but I was disappointed by the strap separation.  The bra seems widely set with the straps hanging on the edge of my shoulders, which isn't desirable.
I'd tried seafoam Portia earlier in the year but didn't get to sample the 28H, instead a 30GG.  I remember actually liking the fit and feel of the 30GG but wanted to compare with the 28H, thinking the latter would be the better fit, but I'm not so sure.  It appears the cups and straps here are broader on my body, possibly an effect of the band stretching.  The bra also seems unsupporting with a flattening effect rather than lifting, like the weight of my bust is pulling the bra down (although it doesn't feel like that.)  

I've commented about the strap separation of Curvy Kates before, and I'm not convinced designs have changed to remedy the problem.  

Is it possible to find a Curvy Kate that sits further onto your shoulders?  What do you think?

Becky x

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Bra Review: Tutti Rouge Betty

When Tutti Rouge's first collection, Liliana, landed for sale back in the spring, the lingerie community was alight with anticipation to try out the hottest new bra brand on the block.  The reason behind the excitement was simple: images of gorgeous lingerie in pretty shades and wearable styles which were shared through Tutti Rouge's social channels showed a glimmer of hope that sexy and desirable designs that look like 'regular' size lingerie were indeed attainable from 28 bands and cups DD to J.  I was as silly-interested as the next full bust blogger and couldn't wait to ride the Rougette train!

When I was asked if I'd like to try the next bra installment, Betty, I was thrilled and not before long a cute 'n' diddy black box arrived at my door.  At first I was sent a 28GG which I didn't have luck getting fastened.  As a rule I only wear 28GG if the bands are stretchy, like Freya Deco for example, with 28H or 30GG my usual sizes, although admittedly I'm preferring 30GG of late, so it wasn't too surprising that 30GG Betty fit best.  With this is mind, I would say Betty does run slightly small in the band but not immensely so. 

Betty comes in DD-HH cup sizes and is such a unique design.  Styled in a half cup shape, Betty boasts lightly padded cups fabricated in a silky satin with a softly coloured poppy print.  Intricate lace trims the cups and all the way around the circumference of the band lending a modern but still feminine look.

The little details make Tutti Rouge's bras so cute; the metal strap adjuster is a heart shape as opposed to a regular rectangle and Tutti Rouge branding is embossed into either end of the back closure. 

Betty's band has just enough give in the elastic, and with the deep wings and three hook wide closure means a really good, firm structure.  The front of the straps are fashioned in a slightly stretchy satin so it looks like taut fabric but allows just a touch of movement for comfort although it does mean the straps are semi adjustable on the reverse side.  Overall I find Betty really comfy to wear.  

At first I was convinced the shape wouldn't suit me but it fits me extremely well.  The wires aren't too wide and finish where I want them to, the cups aren't too highly cut so I've got no rubbing at my underarm, and my boobs are nicely cupped so I feel secure and well supported.  The only nipping I feel is to the outer edge of the wires but then all my bras nip there, and I just need to bend the wire a little to force a bit of curve around my ribcage and then I'm fine.  Lately I've been so finicky with my lingerie, the fact I've been enjoying wearing Betty all day long proves to me that I've found a bra I'm going to be happy in for a long time.

The shorty knickers (size small) feature the same poppy print satin to the front panels, with even more frilly lace trimming, and the back is just as adorable, with it's cheeky see through mesh and peep hole beneath the elasticated waist.  I do prefer to wear my shorties deeper cut with more generosity in the hips but these are still a cute pair of low rise briefs.

Betty... endorsed by Lucy!

Have you been able to try out Tutti Rouge's growing range yet?  Or do you have your eyes on a particular collection yet to come?


Becky x

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Bra Review: Miss Mandalay Paris

Large cup lingerie for smaller backs is more accessible these days compared to only ten years ago.  Now it's pretty commonplace to find 30 back G cups in your local supermarket store and brands catering for the fuller busted have a much wider size scope.  This kind of availability - although it has much room for improvement with recognising the sub 28 demand and need for even larger cups - is fantastic for picking up essentials and pretty seasonals but sometimes you want something a little more luxurious and not so everyday, and you may actually want to support a British brand.  This is when your department store usually falls short.

Miss Mandalay is an independent British brand who've firmly established their mark in the fuller bust market since their arrival on the scene in 2005.  Their collections are both fashion forward and easy to wear thanks to the use of well structured fabrics and clever design which makes them so incredibly desirable.  Being a boutique brand specialising in beautiful design and fit lends to Miss Mandalay's indulgent persona, a refinement that puts the brand in a totally different class.

The 'Paris' collection has to be the most recognisable style of Miss Mandalay with new colourways launched every season.  This spring/summer sees the introduction of Cobalt Blue, a striking deep azure reminiscent of a perfect, tropical sea.  How appropriate for this time of year!  

Unsure which size to try, as I'd heard bands ran small in Miss Mandalay, I bought the Paris in a 30GG, as opposed to my usual 28H, which I must add I've not been most comfortably wearing.  Because of this, I was worried the 30GG would then be too small, but I instantly found the fit to be perfect - phew!

I am usually dubious of balcony styles as it all depends where the central gore sits on my ribcage, as too high or too wide gores can wreak havoc with my close set boobs.  The centre wires sit flush against my chest and it really is in the very best position.  The cups are ample deep and wide enough without the wires disappearing beneath my armpits, like some brands can.

Paris is a non padded style with two section cups fashioned in mesh, with the bottom section less sheer, and trimmed with a satin band along the edge of the cups.  The fit is very rounded and natural with no push up effect, which is a good choice for a simple, comfortable feeling as close to not wearing a bra as you can.

I know a lot of larger busted women like a wide strap on their bra, which in this case I wouldn't say Paris is for you, but I do want to say how amazing the straps do feel, despite their narrow width.  I find them excellent enough as there is no soreness or red marks on my shoulders.

This colour is stunning!  I've lost count how many times I've been disappointed by a bra's colour in reality compared to it's appearance online or in a catalogue.  Cobalt Blue really is a vibrant shade - the perfect colour pop to be wearing this summer.

Becky x

To see the Cobalt Blue Paris in 32C, check out Lingerie Lesbian's review here!

*This post was not sponsored or paid for in any way*

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Swimwear for Spa Days

So, it's decided (I decided) that Mr BB and myself are overdue a spa day.  I haven't been to a spa for three years now and I've never been with the other half before, so to say we're overdue it is an understatement.  I'm looking forward to swimming in the pool, chilling out in a jacuzzi and sweating it out in a sauna, and some treatments would be rather nice too, such as a massage and a facial.  All that needs to be done is book up with the right spa package and, oh, sort out the issue that is wardrobe!

Champney's Springs in Leicestershire - ooh yes please!

With spas, it doesn't matter whether you're a swimsuit wearer or prefer a bikini, what's more important is making sure you choose the right one for you that makes you feel confident about yourself and importantly, comfortable.  After all, what's the point in worrying about ties coming loose when you're meant to be relaxing?

Not all swimwear is the same so it's wise to thoroughly fit and check out your suit before the big day.  These pointers might help you out:

• Check your suit's not see through when wet (no nipples or pubic hair on show)


• Ensure the bottom doesn't ride up between your cheeks.  No one likes a wedgie.


• Can you can fasten fiddly ties or clasps yourself?


• Boob slips can happen - prevent it!  Bounce and move around, do your boobs stay in place?


• You don't want shoulder or neck pain from too tight straps - adjust to a comfortable tension now before you go.

Here are my top favourites of swimwear perfect for a spa day.  Hmm, which to choose?...

Freya 'Fever' Bikini Top

Leia Lingerie, £30

Kelly Brook 'Pink Rose' Bikini Top

New Look, £16.99

Curvy Kate Moonlight Bikini Top

Figleaves, £34

Lepel Capri Swimsuit
Figleaves, £38

And which did I choose?  The Freya Fever bikini!  I bought the gorgeous blue colourway from Leia Lingerie in a 28GG in the plunge style with medium brief bottoms.  It fits perfectly; the plunging cups are perfectly positioned and super flattering.  I was wise to order the 28GG as opposed to the H too as the cups are just the right size.  All I need now is my spa!

Becky x

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Lissome Lingerie & Panache Bra Review

I'm always super interested to hear from new brands and lingerie retailers, especially those who pay particular attention to the needs of larger boobs.  I first came across Lissome Lingerie on Twitter during a networking hour some time ago and at the beginning of February Lissome got in touch with me.  As the online boutique only opened earlier this year I was keen to learn more about them.

When I first visit a lingerie website I head straight to the bra size page to check if my often ignored size is offered, so it was especially interesting to see Lissome being so inclusive and readily available for most women, both small and large busted.  With sizes from an A cup to a K and 28 backs starting from a D, you'll be pushed to find a size they can't offer or find for you.  

As I follow Lissome's social accounts, what became clear to me is their enthusiasm, not just to stock plenty fantastic brands and sell to women of all shapes and sizes but the aim to please and satisfy their customers.  There's a real sense of being well looked after which is a personal attribute a lot of online retailers forget about.

I was offered the chance to sample a piece from their range so I was delighted to receive a beautiful package in the post from business owner, Sarah Stephens.  Within the box en-robed with a chiffon ribbon bow I found the classical Panache Tango bra and brief set, carefully wrapped up in tissue paper.  The  bra is the balcony style which I previously struggled to fit properly with so I was keen to try it on for size.

The black Tango set is in a 28H and the briefs, size 12.

Anyone who is not familiar with the Tango collection will be surprised by how well supporting it is.  The unpadded cups are a sheer mesh embroidered with a leaf detail but don't be deceived by it's delicate and feminine appearance.  The deep band that runs beneath the three section cups offer some seriously substantial support.

What I personally like about the Tango balcony is the depth of the central gore which is high enough to properly envelope my close set boobs.  The deep band with it's three hook wide fastener adds to the reliability and sturdy nature of the band.

The briefs are fashioned in the same embroidered mesh to the front with a stretchy fabric for optimal comfort to the reverse.  There's also a little cut out detail at the back to add interest.  I personally prefer cotton or full stretch knickers to taut fabric, but they do have good bum coverage!

I'll be honest, the Tango collection isn't exactly as attractive as other styles, but it is a wearable basic.  In my opinion the Panache Tango is a classic lingerie drawer essential for a reason; it works!



What other bras would you say are your essentials?

Becky x

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Esty Lingerie: Shop of Delights

Esty Lingerie are currently holding a fantastic competition which will see one lucky winner receive a whopping £100 to spend in their online shop.  Entry into the draw is simple: all you have to do is subscribe to the Esty Lingerie blog and/or the site newsletter, and with options to tweet and comment on the competition too, there's ample opportunity to boost your chances of winning.

I personally (no surprise) love perusing lingerie departments and online shops, it's rather like rummaging through your own underwear stash, loving old favourites and coming across delights you forgot about.  And, if like me, lingerie is more than grabbing any old pair of knickers to wear for the day, you'll appreciate just how exciting it is to discover new designs and brands in a place like Esty, and agree that £100 is a rather tempting shopping spree all too readily enjoyed and well spent!

I would absolutely relish the opportunity to trolley dash Esty Lingerie, and with their virtual racks full to bursting with corsets and other equally tantilising lady garments, there's a LOT to choose from.

I would be torn between this delicious little lot >

The beautifully intricate 'Marlene' bra by Louise Ferdinand Lingerie, crafted from Britain's finest Nottingham Lace and available in 28 backs and cups D-KK (Yippee!)

The cute pale blue lace 'Forget Me Not' Tutu Knickers by Arabel, with it's flirty frill and oversized bow is crying out for boudoir love (my boudoir)

Anyone who really knows me knows just how much I love a cheeky pair of pasties.  The Pink Swarovski Crystal Pasties by Sass A Frass Designs have to be the most decadent, naughty and yet innocent pasties ever.  Must.  Have.

This Faux Leather Corset by Madame Dee is total dominatrix.  Hot with added cute appeal with its lavish purple satin bows.  I love the shape I get when I wear a corset and this look amazing.

So this is what I would pick if I won.  Get yourself entered and you could be winning £100 to buy some of these beauties!  Good luck!

Becky x

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DD+ Bra Review - Bravissimo 'Dixie' Plunge Bra

When I couldn't make Bravissimo's Boob School launch last month I was really disappointed, but I was soon cheered up with the news that I could still review a piece from the new Spring collection.

The only Bravissimo own brand bra I'd been able to try on before now was the Paradiso Plume on my recent trip to their Newcastle store, and I hadn't had a very good experience with it despite falling madly in love with it's appearance.  I wasn't sure whether the size or the balcony shape made my fit such a failure and I wondered if that was an example of how Bravissimo bras would always be like.  Being offered a style of my choice gave me the perfect opportunity to try something possibly more suited to my own bust shape, and it proved the right step forward.

Figuring that some balcony styles are a case of hit or miss, depending on where the gore finishes, I decided to opt for a plunge.  It wasn't long before I was told I had the new 'Dixie' collection in the post for me, which I requested in my normal 28H.

I hadn't realised that a hot pink bra had been missing from my lingerie drawer for a few years, and it was a refreshing sight to see how deep in pretty colour Dixie's fuschia shade was.  It's a very simple style; a scalloped self coloured lace trims the cups and little white bows spotted with pink are positioned  at the centre gore and to the fore straps.  The unpadded triple section cups are smooth and silky feeling both sides of the fabric which lends to it's comfortable sensation.

The band has a good firm tension; it's perfectly supportive and fastens with rows of triple hooks and eyes.  The straps are fully adjustable and elastic, possibly more stretchy than I feel they need be, but not particularly a problem.

The cups totally encase my boobs with absolutely no bulging or falling out, and I have a good cleavage without the cups being push-up.  There are no signs of fabric wrinkling, creasing or unfilled areas, in fact the cups are perfectly smooth and mirror my own shape.

I am really, really pleased with Dixie and totally impressed with the fit.  I'm amazed at how comfy it's been wearing Dixie for long days without any need to adjust or move wiring.  I feel Dixie is like a second skin, and dare I say it, leading ahead in my list of favourite bras.  :-)

The briefs, which I was sent in a size 12, were exactly how I like them, not too low and with good bum coverage.  The same lace and bow detailing trims the briefs, with the back of them and the front side panels being an easy to wear mesh, so they're super comfy.

Dixie is a really cute set to own - perfect if you're a pink lover, have close set boobs and suit a plunging style and want to update your lingerie with something a little more youthful and girly.

Becky x

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Blog Birthday Giveaway! #2 Freya Deco

This competition is now CLOSED - winners announced soon!

We're on to our second celebration day marking Becky's Boudoir's 2nd birthday which fell on the 18th Feb, yesterday.  Each day this week we're launching a fab new giveaway, and our favourite brands and online shops have kindly put forward some fantastic prizes specially for you gorgeous readers to win!

UK based Lingerie Heaven must be the web's best kept secret for lingerie lovers and bargain hunters.  From the latest collections at discount prices to bags full of previous season beauties, you're sure to find something in your size.  If you don't see, just ask!  The friendly folk at Lingerie Heaven will do their utmost and more to source your desired bra.

Today, the lovely Lingerie Heaven has selected a special prize for one lucky winner; the covetable Freya 'Deco' moulded bra with the choice of brief or thong in your size.  To enter, simply complete the quick 'n' easy tasks in the Rafflecopter below.  

Photo for illustration purposes only as colour may vary.

This draw ends one week from today on the 26th February 2013 - so be quick!

Terms and conditions apply, provided upon request.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Curvy Kate Portia - Bravissimo Visit

My recent experience with Curvy Kate's Princess bra wasn't the success I'd hoped for.  I'd found the fit very broad with straps that teetered on the edge of my shoulders.  I absolutely loved the style and the berry colour was just delicious so I was immensely disappointed that I couldn't wear Princess.  I was soon to see a glimmer of hope, however, since my post last week prompted Curvy Kate to inform me that corrections had been made to the design of Princess.  Armed with this knowledge, I was encouraged to seek out a new Curvy Kate release to judge for myself whether the fit indeed had been improved on.  My visit to Bravissimo earlier this week gave me the perfect chance to again try on Curvy Kate for size.

On Bravissimo's website I noticed they sold both the Princess and Portia collections, so I was frustrated to find only the Portia in store.  It wasn't much use being told I could order it online as the chance to try on garments at Bravissimo is the reason why I opt to go into the store.  Never mind, I thought, there's still Portia.  Wrong!  For some reason, Bravissimo don't stock Portia in a 28 back, yet I'm led to believe Curvy Kate do produce Portia in a 28.  I'm slightly confused why Bravissimo would choose to size from a 30 back when they are usually the first stockist you'd think of when looking for small back bras.

I would have tried the 28H but since that wasn't available the assistant suggested I tried the 30H instead.  I'm sure I grimaced when she said this, having a huge inkling that it would be quite a bit too big, but I agreed hesitantly and asked for 28H sister size 30GG to try on too.

Now, I'd never tried on Portia before and hadn't seen it for real, either.  In reality, Portia is a really pretty, intricate design and this season's new colour, Seafoam, is a really appealing looker.  I was relieved to find that when I put (30GG) Portia on, the straps sat in a good position on my shoulders.  The band was also firm but not uncomfortable and the cups fully encasing.  I loved the look and the feeling.

I tried the 30H on just to compare and surprisingly struggled at first to see the difference.  With several photos taken at varying angles it soon became apparent - the shape of the cups gave it all away.  The 30H was too loose to support my bust properly, creating a dropped shape.  Comparing to the 30GG, you see the lift and firmness; a much better fit.

There's also slight wrinkling along the mesh of the cups of the 30H and also space just beneath where the straps begin, showing the 30H is marginally too big.

I was so impressed with the fit of the 30GG I seriously considering buying it but I didn't, purely because I didn't have a 28H, or 28HH to compare it to.  When I generally wear a 28 back I like to be sure a 28 is beyond wearability before I consider looking at a 30.  This refers me back to my earlier point, why Bravissimo don't stock 28 back Portia?  It's a mystery to me, and as such I continue with my quest: to find the best fitting Curvy Kate I can.

Becky x

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Review - Curvy Kate: Fit For A Princess?

I hadn't tried a Curvy Kate bra for a while, with the last design I bought being the Criss-cross, which didn't work out for me.  I've always had my eye on the brand though because there's always something new to catch your eye, whether a fresh new collection or just another yummy range of colours.

I've long wanted to give another style a go so when I saw recently that Brastop was having a January sale I decided it would be the perfect time to try Curvy Kate out again.  With quite a few collections and colour ways to choose from it took me a while to decide which bra to go for.  The only bit that had me stumped was the sizing which I'd heard was a case of trial and error.  I loved the look of Princess thanks to it's girly velvet polka dot design but having heard funny stories about the cups I decided to jump right in and order a 28HH, a cup larger than I usually wear.  This is a past season colour in wine which is just a gorgeous, deep fruity shade.

I was so excited for the delivery of my bra and thankfully it didn't take long at all: only a matter of a few days!  When I opened up the parcel I knew Princess was a beauty.  It's light and unpadded with delicate detailing and sheer mesh panels.  I couldn't wait to try it on.

The fit is both good and better than expected in certain areas, but also truly disappointing.  The 28 band was a perfect fit, tight but not silly tight.  The back fastener was a 3 way hook and eye with a deep band so really well designed for support.  I adjusted the straps to a comfortable length and didn't find the half adjustable straps a problem; the length was plenty sufficient for me.  Once my fit was sorted I was able to figure out what the bra both looked and felt like and this was where it all went to pot for me.

Curvy Kate Princess in 28HH

The first negative I recognised immediately was the breadth of the straps; they were way too far apart, so much so they were slipping right off my shoulders.  This in turn meant the cups cut too deep around my underarm allowing me no room for movement.  It was really uncomfortable.  It seemed this bra wasn't designed with slight frames or sloping shoulders in mind.

The too far apart straps and cutting in

The cups were also not agreeable.  My left boob is the bigger of the two and felt perfectly okay within the cup, but my other side was swamped with visible unfilled fabric beneath my boob and to the side.
Considering this, I would be tempted to try the 28H although I'd worry the back would be made too tight, or be inadequate for my larger boob.

The under filled right cup

I'm so gutted that Princess wasn't 'fit for a princess' in my case.  I have heard it's a tricky style to fit, so I guess I may have to live with the fact that this Curvy Kate wasn't made for me.

Have you have similar experiences with Curvy Kate and Princess in particular?  Is there a better, fail safe style from Curvy Kate?

Becky x

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Large Cup Bra Review - Freya Ivy

Wow, first post of the new year!  Let me take this opportunity to thank you for supporting my blog and I hope you'll stick around for 2013.  The blog changed direction slightly and picked up it's pace pretty quickly last year, so I'm keen to progress and develop further, bringing you, my friends, some cool offers and incentives.  :-)

Even though it's January now and everyone's slowly opening up shop again, I'm hanging on to Christmas by it's last glittery thread.  My beautiful tree is still here standing proudly in front of me with my very retro paper chains still very much in place (bar the odd naughty one that keeps unfastening a loop and falling down.)  It'll all have to be packed away for another 11 months come the weekend, so it'll be very sad... and completely refreshing!  The house will suddenly look bare but so much more spacious!

If you're like me, reluctant to say goodbye to Christmas yet, or you just dread the grey and slow month that is January, Freya's Ivy collection is probably worth checking out.  Boasting colour and lace in firecracker red, glowing berries against a contrasting blue and green base of ferns, Ivy is the most festive nod to the season.

At first I wasn't sure if I liked Ivy, I couldn't decide if it was too brash, too full on.  But then I realised how clever it is and how well the colours work and actually brighten your mood.  Ivy isn't a Christmas bra but delivers the same feeling of the season - vibrancy and awe.

Ivy is the same construction and fabrication of Spring/Summer's Ellie.  I loved Ellie but ended up struggling with the size which was a 30GG.  I decided to try Ivy in a 28H, as I recently found fit success with 28H Freya Gem, and it's the best size.

I really like the fit; the balcony cups feel extremely supportive and encasing, and the three set hook and eye fastening was a good decision.  The straps are like a woven criss-cross pattern than the more conventional diamond pattern, and I prefer it to the latter.  I would like to see the straps a little narrower, as I can't help but feel humungously wide straps spoil an otherwise young and modern bra.  A couple of mms less in width would be interesting.

I got a matching thong with the bra in a size S which is about a 10.  It's easy to wear in a very light fabric and the red lace runs all the way around the waist band.

Does the colour of Ivy work for you?  Do you think it's too bright and in-your-face, or is it a welcome spirit lifter at this time of the year?

Becky x

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