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: Lollopop Lovely Freya Beau

When Freya released their Beau collection in new colour lollipop pink several months ago it was a moment of lust at first sight.  I generally love hot pink so the sugary shade combined with the cute repeating bow design and striking embroidery really caught my eye.  

When Beau first hit the market a year ago in neutral 'candy' shade I disliked it immensely - it looked drab in the most unappealing shade of pink ever, to my eye - so it just goes to show how colour plays an important role in your decision to like a product or not.

Despite marking 'lollipop' Beau balcony bra as my top must have on my birthday list back in February I never bought it, so when Large Cup Lingerie recently asked me if I'd like to review the set I was happy to oblige.  Freya Beau, come to mama!

I'm pretty consistent in Freya bras, mostly wearing a 28H but with the odd exception of the Deco where I can dubiously get away with wearing a 28GG, simply because it's not produced in the H cup (yet!).  I thought it was a no-brainer to request the 28H, on the contrary, it's become apparent this isn't the right size for me.  I think I'm currently in a funny between-sizes limbo.

The 28 band is snug, which I initially felt okay about as it seemed firm in a good way, but a few hours of wear into my day I was aware of tightness digging and nipping me, and I kept pulling the band away from my sides to give myself mere seconds of relief.  I was definitely stretching the band to its testing limit.  It wasn't looking good (and neither my skin).

Don't misconstrue my experience with the band for failure, as there were many attributes that impressed me.  How the cups completely and perfectly encased my boobs was a huge positive.  The large sections of embroidered sheer mesh fit like a glove, with no gaping or under fill like some other brands leave me with.  Although the shape isn't so rounded, more  pointed, it meant Beau felt and looked more natural.

The three hooks wide back fastening is also a strong point as it's more anchoring than simply two.  

A pair of matching medium 12 briefs accompanied the bra in the Large Cup Lingerie parcel.  Featuring the same miniature bow print and front mesh panel, these knickers really came into their own.

They're amazing!  The back is ruched, which lends a more form fitting structure and the bum coverage is fantastic.  I hate knickers that disappear between your butt and these do not. 

So overall, Beau is every bit the raspberry delight I'd hoped for.  The colour is cheerfully bright and the design cute.  I would love to find Beau in a 30GG as I suspect it would be a more comfortable fit, but until then, I can at least enjoy wearing the adorable Beau briefs!

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Do you like the look of Beau?  Which colour way do you prefer or would like to see?  I think Beau would look super sweet in violet purple!  What do you think?

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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Bra Review - Bravissimo Paradiso Plume

Earlier this week saw the introduction of some gorgeous new bras for the early spring season at Bravissimo.  New on the block, own brand bra Paradiso Plume had me smitten the moment I saw it online.  I was tempted to place an order from the website but I decided I couldn't wait and made the trek up to Newcastle today; Eldon Garden bound to Bravissimo.

If you've not yet seen Paradiso Plume, get ready for a juicy feast for the eyes!  It's tropical jambalaya is a vibrant and intoxicating explosion of feathers in heady blooms of fuchsia and peacock blues.  This beauty looked stunning on the Bravissimo model and the lofty half cup balcony shape sold it to me.  Sadly - and I'm truly dispirited to say this - it didn't work for me in the slightest, teensiest bit.  Gutted.

I'm pretty!  Oh so pretty!

I tried on the 28H which is my most worn size.  The band fastened up fine and felt snug.  Beyond that, I just don't think this style was made for me.  Firstly, the cups were not sufficient in size; the central gore sat away from my chest bone, in fact, the whole front of the bra seemed to sit away from me.  I also had bulging over the top of my left (larger) side.  I felt as if I needed at least a HH.

Looks kinda okay... except the wide straps and cups!

See the bulging on the left cup?

The bra shape was just far too broad for me; the straps were not only ridiculously far off my shoulders but they were disappearing into my armpits!  If I increased anything this fit would be made even worse, if it could be worse.

The straps are disappearing into my armpits

I look like I'm wearing a backpack on my shoulders!

 I'm quite relieved I did come to try this bra on as opposed to ordering it on a whim as it's not a great design at all.  Now, my boobs are close set and bottom heavy, I'm thinking this bra may better suit wide set and full up top boobs.  If this is you, Paradiso Plume could look fantastic on you.  I'm just miffed it's a no-go for me.

What do you think of the style and pattern of the Paradiso Plume?  Do you think it would suit you better?  I would love to hear how you got on if you've tried it too.

Becky x

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My Birthday Wish List

In one week's time my 31st birthday will be upon me - yipee!  A time for indulgence, treats and personal gratification.  I like to milk my birthday for what it's worth and I allow myself guilt-free requests such as magazines, pampering, new clothes and anything else that takes my fancy.  Okay, it's not that different from the norm but it's always an enjoyable time never the less.  :-)

For a bit of fun I thought I'd look through the virtual shopping aisles and pick out my favourite lingerie and homeware pieces.  There's nothing quite like a bit of imagination splurging!

First to go into my birthday basket is the Freya 'Beau' bra set (28H) in the new colourway, Lollipop, due out February (how convenient?!)  When the 'candy' Beau came out last year it did nothing for me, in fact the colour made me dislike it.  Now it's going to be in this juicy, fruity pink colour, I love it!  I'm obsessed!

Freya 'Beau' collection in Lollipop

I love burning candles and my favourite brand is by far Yankee Candle.  I've been enjoying them for about twelve years now and I'm as yet to come across such quality home fragrances elsewhere.  Having sniffed a sneak peek of forthcoming scents I knew I'd want A Child's Wish when it comes out.  It's floral but really fresh and spring-like.

I think cushions are one of those things I'm pretty obsessed about.  I fall for cushions so easily and so often, my sofas and bedroom are a crazy mismatch array of cushions!  This cushion would definitely live in the bedroom: it's awesome.  The very Party Ring-esque Celebration Biscuit cushion by Sass and Belle.

Then I would be sure to throw in the Nadin bra set by Comexim.  The design and colours are so unusual but vibrant and girly.  I love it!  I've been afraid to buy overseas though as I'm not sure what size I'd need to order.

Comexim Nadin collection

Buying a new handbag is one of my favourite past times and Nica has regularly been my go-to brand.  I've lost count how many I've bought!  I just love the texture of their fabrics and the lovely colours they use.  I would love the shoulder bag from their Nica Play range in green.  Yum!

Some shades of pink can be a bit wimpy but when I saw this clock I was smitten with the hot pink.  I can't stop looking at this Acctim clock called Lorene.  The other half probably wouldn't be very impressed but I'd be thrilled to see it everyday!

As I'm a list freak (you wouldn't believe how many lists I have on the go at any one time) stationary is always of huge interest to me, particularly pads of paper and notebooks.  I didn't see this on Dotcomgiftshop until today: the pretty Vintage Doily sticky memo pads set.  I would so enjoy myself writing up my things to do!

I've been cross stitching for 15 years and recently taken to making cushions and little cute home decorations so storage for my needles and crafty tools is essential.  Currently my boxes are practical and far from pretty so it would be nice to have some attractive storage solutions.  Button It is so far up my street, I'm sure it was made just for me.  The gorgeous colours and covetable silver buttons make them absolutely yummy.  This hot pink polka dot sewing box would be perfect for my most important bits and pieces.  Mmmm, yes please!

Becky x

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Invitation Tea Towels - The Original Wedding Tea Towel

Getting married has been at the forefront of my mind for quite a while.  Thirteen years to be precise!  In 1999 my fiance, Sean, and I met and became engaged to eachother.  At first we'd hoped to tie the knot within the following few years but planning fell behind normal life and 2002 swiftly became 2012.  So here we are, still with every intention to marry though yet to plan the affairs.

I consider myself someone who likes to do things differently, a little unique but without being outlandish and too crazy.  For our own wedding we would definitely want a touch of individualisation.  Whilst I was on Twitter recently I chanced upon an intriguing but blatantly frank twitter handle - Wedding Tea Towels, of The Original Wedding Tea Towel.  It was kinda obvious from the name what they do but I was still curious to find out more.

If you're planning a wedding yourself, don't buy that run of the mill pack of invitation cards just yet.  How about posting out funky, useable and totally personalised tea towels to your guests instead?

My Favourite Designs

I was sent this tea towel so I could check them out for myself and I was pretty impressed.  The 100% cotton tea towels are produced right here in the UK and can be printed in a number of colours with a good choice of modern and contemporary designs.  The tea towel I received came printed in a pretty hot pink and the colour quality is vibrant and clean.  The printing is perfect too; no smudgy marks or areas of uneven ink.

I really do like the design which is called Spring Hill.  It's a very folksy design featuring adorable swallows flying aloft a tree while a plump hot air balloon sails past.  The smallest details are remarkable, check out the delicate dandelion clock seeds blowing in the wind.

After I'd opened and admired my tea towel I had to laugh at the coincidence of what was printed.  This tea towel was certainly sending me messages!  All sample tea towels are examples of previously commissioned works and this one declared the wedding intentions for one happy couple planning to wed in Thirsk, North Yorkshire.  Considering Thirsk is where I was born and raised, and the fact Thirsk is a pretty small market town, what were the chances of me receiving a tea towel baring this!

When Sean and I finally get around to making something of our own wedding plans, I will definitely be bearing these awesome tea towels in mind.  :-)

Becky x

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