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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My Savvy Spring Summer Style

Spring seriously dragged it's heels.  According to the Met Office it's been the UK's coldest Spring in 50 years (!), so it's been a challenge knowing what seasonal clothes to put away and which to begin wearing.  Now we've stepped into June (okay, which means it's technically now Summer...) we can but hope for some sunnier weather.  With this spirit in mind, I've been gearing up my lighter wardrobe and embracing the new season trends, particularly the soft pastel hues that have us reminiscing melted ice creams and sugar dusted sweets.  From baby blue to primrose yellow, it's all about the pastel.

I'm not just about the trend, though.  Savvy buying is in my DNA and I've been stalking the web and high street for on trend bargains that'll see me through the next few seasons and satisfy my thrifty conscience.  I know I'm not alone with my bargain hunting way of life, but even if you're not, I hope I can offer some food for thought with what you can achieve from a bit of leg work and clever shopping.

This look sums up my perfect summery style: casual, cute and feminine.

Me with a couple of guinea pigs.  Ain't that a surprise!

This entire outfit (along with additional accessories) was purchased using discounts, loyalty card bonuses and good old shop offers.  Nothing was paid full price for, which, if like me, you'll very much like the sound of.  This is how I did it:

ASOS Lilac Satchel Bag with scallop trim and buckles

20% off code & 500 bonus points for Advantage Card from Boots Treat Street

Full Price £22.00.  I paid £17.60

Saving: £4.40 + £5 earning

H&M Conscious Collection Floral Canvas Shoes

10% off code, FREE delivery & £5 off

Full Price £7.99.  I paid £2.19

Saving: £5.80

H&M 'Hello Darling' Slogan Tee

Ebay purchase

Full Price £7.99  I paid £1.70  (£3.20 inc. delivery)

Saving: £6.29





Primark Pleated Maxi Skirt
Ebay purchase
Full Price £12  I Paid £3.50  (£5.50 inc. delivery)
Saving: £8.50

Maybelline Forever Strong Pro Nail Polish - 'Lilac Charm'

Poundland

RRP £4.09  I paid £1

Saving £3.09

Rimmel Lycra Pro Nail Polish - 'Peppermint' & 'Aqua Cool'

Half Price at Morrisons.

Full Price £4.59 each.  I paid £2.29 each

Saving: £2.39 each

Have you made any serious savings on your Spring/Summer Style wardrobe?  Have any tips for budget fashion buying?

Becky x

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Blog Birthday Giveaway! #6 Ewa Michalak

This competition is now CLOSED - winners announced soon!

Sadly, this is the last day of the giveaways (Boooo!) but I really hope you've enjoyed entering the fantastic prize draws I've hosted this week.  The prize donators have been amongst my favourite brands and online shops and it will be such a success that you love them as much as I do.

We end with a particularly generous giveaway from leading Polish company, Ewa Michalak.  Not one, not two but THREE prizes of money vouchers to spend on the website, each to the value of 100 Polish Zloty.

I wouldn't have known about Ewa Michalak if it weren't for my fellow readers and bloggers and I've been so thankful for being introduced to the company.  The beautiful lingerie is a breath of fresh air; the european influence makes for a totally refreshing approach we're yet to see designers try here in the UK.

Ewa Michalak are offering 3 lucky winners a 100PLN voucher to spend.  To enter, simply complete the quick 'n' easy tasks in the Rafflecopter below.

Here's some of my current favourites from Ewa Michalak >

Ewa Michalak - 3DM Melon

Ewa Michalak - CHP Mak Nowa Koronka

Ewa Michalak - 3D Kokietka

This draw ends one week from today on the 2nd March 2013 - so be quick!

Terms and conditions apply, provided upon request.

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Blog Birthday Giveaway! #5 Freya Gem

This competition is now CLOSED - winners announced soon!

It may be Day 5 of my blog's birthday giveaways but it's not coming to an end just yet!

I've worn and reviewed so many bras and knickers in the two years I've been writing this blog that I'm hard pressed to think which have been my favourite pieces.  There have simply been so many brands and styles I've enjoyed looking at and wearing.  One bra that does come easily to my mind happens to be the prize that today's brand has decided to award to the winner.  This bra in particular didn't just impress me ridiculously so when I first saw it in person, but has become my favourite go-to bra to wear since I got it.  It's the Freya Gem.

Freya Lingerie are simply one of the most desirable lingerie brands on the market in terms of their eclectic range of collections which enthrall and excite season after season.  Something so many large bust brands misconceive is the notion that if you have a larger bust you must want to wear something dowdy, and Freya buck the trend with their hot colours and quirky patterns.

Freya Lingerie are offering 1 lucky winner the tantilising Freya Gem Bra and Brief set.  To enter, simply complete the quick 'n' easy tasks in the Rafflecopter below.  

Photo for illustration purposes only as colour may differ.

This draw ends one week from today on the 1st March 2013 - so be quick!

Terms and conditions apply, provided upon request.

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Blog Birthday Giveaway! #4 Alexis Smith

This competition is now CLOSED - winners announced soon!

I can't believe it's Day 4 of the giveaways already!  I'm really enjoying hosting these gorgeous prize draws and I hope you're having as much fun entering.  It's not only amazing to see how many lingerie brands value the blogger circuit but it's so cool to see all of your support for my own blog.  It means so much and I wish I could give you all a huge hug to say thanks.

Today's giveaway comes from a brand I only reviewed earlier this year, and that is the very beautiful, very British - very Essex - Alexis Smith.  Fans of The Only Way Is Essex reality tv show will already be familiar with this brand as the representing face is the show's very own Jessica Wright, who opened her own lingerie boutique, choosing to sell Alexis Smith in her store.

Alexis Smith have kindly lined up a stunning lingerie set for those with D-G cups - the sexy plunging White Satin Bra and Brief set.  To enter, simply complete the quick 'n' easy tasks in the Rafflecopter below.  

Jessica Wright for Alexis Smith

This draw ends one week from today on the 28th February 2013 - so be quick!

Terms and conditions apply, provided upon request.

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Blog Birthday Giveaway! #3 Wonderbra Gel Pixel Lace

This competition is now CLOSED - winners announced soon!

On day 3 of our prize draw week I have a very special giveaway from none other than the most iconic and internationally recognised lingerie brands around that is the powerhouse Wonderbra.  They've come a long way since the 1960s when the first push up bra was released and the illustrious 'Hello Boys' cleavage drew our attention in the 90s, and today the brand is still pushing boundaries with exquisite designs and new concepts such as the Ultimate Strapless.

Wonderbra has kindly provided our prize for one lucky winner - the Wonderbra Gel Pixel Lace Bra.  Sizes from 32A - 38DD. To enter, simply complete the quick 'n' easy tasks in the Rafflecopter below.  

Image for illustration purposes only as bra may be blue or black.

This draw ends one week from today on the 27th February 2013 - so be quick!

Terms and conditions apply, provided upon request.

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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.

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Large Cup Budget Buying Guide

If you're fortunate to be of ample bust, you'll know all too well the misfortune that accompanies such a blessing, and that's the sad fact that large cup bras aren't particularly cheap.  It's frustrating to walk into all the trendy high street clothes shops and see a beautiful array of affordable lingerie only to find they stop short of the larger cup sizes.  It's even more disheartening when you require a smaller back size because so few stores stock them.

If you're a familiar reader here you'll know how much of a bargainista I am.  I'm always looking for the best buys I can find to satisfy my bra needs.  If you're needing bras for your newly refitted boobs or just looking to freshen your lingerie draw with some modern pretties, there are ways and means to avoid going in the red.  Here are my 6 top tips for intelligent bra buying.


1.  eBay
Whether you like it or not, ebay is the auction site everyone talks about and there's reason for it.  It's one of the best places to go to for low prices and choice because everyone wants to sell off their wares quickly.  Pre-worn is the requisite for second hand trading but many people sell brand new bras that didn't fit them and weren't returned, and there are many businesses selling too, listing current and past seasons.  You can find plenty bras in every size imaginable, including illusive 28 backs.  Items are usually listed in an auction format where you bid against other interested buyers but often a 'buy it now' option is available for immediate purchase.

I recently bought this past season Freya Jolie bra in a 28H on eBay for less than £13!

2.  Bratabase
This site is all about achieving the best fit from bras using a community built database where users are encouraged to measure and add their bras - the well fitting and not so - onto the site to provide usable feedback helpful for others looking for fit advice for a particular bra.  With the option to list any of your uploaded bras for sale, your unwanted bras can find a new home thanks to the worldwide site membership (which is free).  I have successfully sold some of my own bras using the Bratabase system and each time has been a personable and pleasant experience.

3.  Discount Online Shops
We can all think of web stores who sell at recommended retail price but did you know there are online shops where you can easily pay up to half price less?  Shops such as Lingerie Heaven, Brastop and My Curves and Me are all excellent sources for marked down prices on bras both popular and newly released.  They aren't seconds, with all lingerie being the same top quality product you'd find in the next shop.  It's just great prices!

4.  Promotions
With so many shops and online stores closing down every day, retail is cut throat; every shop has to fight for its customers.  When I'm looking to buy I always look online to find any discount codes that may be on offer.  A percentage off your total order, a monetary discount and free delivery are all common deals at various times of the retail calendar.  If you sign up to website newsletters you'll be the first to know about offers such as free delivery, and often there'll be up to a 20% off incentive for your first purchase.  Social websites such as Twitter and Facebook and also good ways of staying in touch with businesses where you'll often be privy to exclusive competitions and offers.

5.  Sales
There are sales and then there are secret sales, both earn you the potential for huge savings but work differently.

General sales are offered by just about every shop, on the high street and online.  The big sales are at specific times of the year, such as the January sales, winter sales and summer sales, which are to make way for next season stock which actually hits the shelves before the current season is out.  Here you can pick up huge discounts particularly on 'fashion' lines, which are the colourways and styles season specific and not continually available throughout the year.

Secret sales are membership websites - Brand Alley is one of them - for which you sign up to, to gain access to tightly scheduled sales.  Sales are quick, often over within a matter of days, so you have to get in fast if you don't want to miss out.

6.  Cashback
Even if you decide to buy from a regular store online, you can still easily make a saving.  Although not hugely significant, websites which provide cashback for following their lead link can earn you the equivalent of a percentage off your order total which accumulates on your account to mean real money back in your hand.  For example, using Topcashback you can achieve over 5% of your order at Brastop.  Every little helps!


So, this is how I shop.  Do you have a particular shopping style?  Are you a bargain hunter as I am, or someone who likes to be in and out as quick as possible when you shop?

If there's any money saving tips for bra buying I've missed, I'd love to hear!

Becky x

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Lingerie Heaven & Freya Deco 28GG!

There's two things that can't excite me more - fabulous well fitting lingerie and bargain hunting.  Put them together and I'm one pretty happy bunny!  Allow me to introduce you to the web's best kept secret; Lingerie Heaven.

I first came across Lingerie Heaven back when I was hunting down a specific bra which was discontinued and so hard to get hold of: the pretty Panache Tango Spirit bra with it's quintessential floral print.  My heart literally skipped when I saw the bargain £10 price tag.  I've found all the prices are significantly lower than the RRP and as if that wasn't good enough, you can also earn loyalty points on your purchases in return for free lingerie!  I suddenly felt like I'd discovered by destiny this hub of lingerie lust worthiness.  If there was ever a recession beating tip, this is one.

Lingerie Heaven website

Lingerie Heaven is a neat little shop tucked away in a corner of the web with its roots firmly planted in fitting excellence.  Should you be lucky enough to live near the Hertfordshire base you have the beneficial option of a proper fitting consultation, but even if you don't, there's always help and advice on hand via email from an experienced fitter.  For anyone who struggles to source small backs such as 28s or need a cup right up to a KK, you're sure to find what you need right here.

I was really interested to find out that Lingerie Heaven was founded out of the same frustration experienced by many of us.  Proprietor, Clare, started the business after realising the very same problem with finding well fitting, supportive and attractive underwear in larger cup sizes.  In a day when the archaic +4 is still being rung out, it's refreshing to know that this is one retailer which shuns the old ways.

Clare told me "As someone with a smaller back size and a large cup I understand just how frustrating it is to find a good fitting bra and so I wanted to provide a ‘to order’ service so as many sizes as possible are available for my customers rather than selling just the items I had in stock."  Adding, "As a fitter I find a lot of women are a smaller back size than they realise as they are all using the +4 or +5 method to measure themselves when this does not give an accurate fit."

I have to be honest, I've never had such a thorough and helpful consultation before.  Clare was keen to help me find the best bra to suit me and following some wonderful options decided to go for the Freya Deco.  I explained my recurring problem with sizing differences across brands and ranges, which was when the Deco in 28GG was recommended.  Freya Deco in a 28GG?  You heard right. They've only gone and introduced a GG to the 28 back options!  Time for celebration, me thinks!

I've been envious of other Deco loyalists because I couldn't join the club.  I'd heard much about the amazing fit and got a taste of it via Deco's pretty sister, Ashlee, but I'd found the 30GG a little too big.  It was like a dream come true to be told of the arrival of 28GG this month.

The bra arrived speedily and I was ridiculously excited to get the package opened.  I felt like I was eight years old again, opening the goodies in my Christmas stocking at the foot of my bed.  Deco was lust at first sight and loved followed once I slipped into it...

Me wearing Deco Plunge Bra

I was sent the Deco plunge bra in charcoal which is a dark smokey grey colour.  I actually love wearing grey so it's a very pleasant, wearable shade.  This Deco features two little pearlescent buttons and a grey bow to the centre gore.

The fit is spot on, I'm so pleased with it.  I've been finding lately that 30 bands fit me best with Freya bras but as the band on the Deco is quite stretchy the 28 is perfect.  The moulded seam-free cups are well supporting and yet gives a remarkable cleavage with a natural rounded shape.  What I love about the Deco over Ashlee or Taylor is that the cups are totally smooth without additional frills or lace which means it's excellent to wear under close fitting tops.  Through my t shirt, I have no bulging, no unsightly boob spillage and I, for once, have a perfectly unadulterated silhouette.  How refreshing to finally find a supportive and comfortable bra that doesn't advertise through my clothes!

No spillage or quadra-boob!

And comfort would be the defining sensation I've experienced through wearing Deco for several days now.  I've been able to wear it through entire days of activities and not once felt like I wanted to take it off.  I think this is what makes a really great bra, something I'm sure my fellow fuller bosom friends would agree on.  :-)

Great news -  you can buy the brand spanking new Deco in 28GG now and exclusive to Becky's Boudoir readers you can claim a generous 20% off all orders - that's everything in the shop, including sale items - from Lingerie Heaven.  Offer ends 6th July 2012.  Add code: blogger20 at the checkout.

Becky x

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