Showcasing Luxury Lingerie: Tallulah Love

Luxury lingerie is women's underwear at it's finest, and when it's homegrown right here in the UK it's all the better.  You normally expect a prestigious brand to emerge from the southern counties, with businesses heading to the big smoke chasing the city dream and it's investors.  So, for a label such as Tallulah Love to be northern born and bred proves how tenacious and fashion forward the fantastic north east is.  Being a Yorkshire lass with a Geordie fiance, I'm pretty biased, but when US Harper's Bazaar requests a shipment of the lingerie finery, you know there's something special about this brand.

Tallulah Love held a Summer Soiree this weekend and I was invited along to check out the show.  It was announced earlier this year that Tallulah Love are to expand their ranges to cater for the larger bust, so with this in mind I was immensely interested.  I popped along to the event held at Cafe No.33 in Hartlepool with my OH where we met the lady of luscious lingerie herself, owner Michelle Taylor.

The venue was cosy and already bustling when we arrived, as we were offered champagne and asked to take a raffle ticket for a chance to win a goodie bag.  Sadly for me I wasn't a winning number and I was gutted not to come away with one of the cute bags of goodies so well done to the lucky 15 who snaffled one!  The tables and chairs were taken but it gave me the opportunity to have a wander around before the catwalk show.

I managed to grab Michelle Taylor (who was wearing such a cute dress) for a chat and we had some photos over at the display area where racks of intoxicating lingerie hung from satin black hangers, and a gorgeous vintage suitcase teased with an array of frilly knickers to buy.  

My favourite pieces included the beautiful ivory silk vintage lace corset featuring an abundance of exquisite French Chantilly lace, and the insanely girly silk balcony bra from the Blue Birds collection.  I like how the bird print design depicts the Tallulah Love branding and yet still maintains a delicate feminine flair beneath all the frills.

As much as I love the chic pretties, the cute gift packaging is just as covetable.  How adorable is the aqua heart box?!

My good friend and amazing photographer Jade Turnbull was there taking shots of the models and I grabbed a pew next to her ready for the show.  The models were on top form and oozed glamour and sophistication.  Despite a little hiccup with the soundtrack the models continued on, showcasing each delicate outfit with an added cheeky wink or wiggle.

Leading burlesque performer, Frankii Wilde, stole the show, however all the girls were total dolls.  I probably looked like a drooling letch but the lingerie was so eye catching, with so much detail to absorb.  Mesh back knickers, frill capped straps and the crowns of faux flower blooms (created by Frankii Wilde's own fair hands) all nodded to an era of the female ideal, the pretty pin up and a sophistication of timeless appeal.

With the forthcoming launch of larger cupped lingerie, I hope to show you some collections that will cater for the D+ amongst us.

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What tempts you about Tallulah Love and what would you most like to see come from the brand in the future?

Becky x

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Boudoir Lingerie - 'Danielle' by Parfait

Lingerie falls into two categories, broadly speaking, in my opinion: there's your everyday bras and knickers that are comfy and practical (your uncomplicated 'underwear') and then there's the more superior pieces that earn being called lingerie.  The latter is the desired; the fabrics that make you feel great as much as they look fabulous.  They make us feel that bit more special and they cheer us up just knowing what we've got hidden underneath.  We may wear it everyday 'just because' or we just covet from afar.  Real lingerie is the stuff of gods.

A collection I would totally classify as proper lingerie is the 'Danielle' line from large cup brand, Parfait by Affinitas.  Boudoir deliciousness is always top of my agenda as this is the kind of lingerie modelling I most enjoy, so when I spot a garment I'd love to wear on a shoot it's guaranteed to be the most delicate and prettiest of things.  Danielle represents everything I love about the true boudoir look.

Having never tried Parfait before I was keen to explore the brand further when I was offered the chance to sample a set.  I didn't want to be typical and select something I'd necessarily wear everyday, which was why I went for Danielle, being a more sophisticated style.  It also gave me a good opportunity to try completely different shapes to the usual bra and knicker so I was sent the Danielle Bralette in a 30G and the High Waist Brief in a medium.

The Look

Danielle is fashioned in a luxuriously soft, dusky pink satin; the bralette's cups overlaid with deep lace trim and pin tuck lines sewn down the centre of the cups, while the generously cut briefs feature the same lace, this time edging the hem line exposing the skin; both pieces finished off with little fabric buttons.  

The Detail

The bralette's extension panel at 2 1/2cm isn't too long but is sufficient depth, with sections of plastic boning maintaining the bralette's shape.  It fastens with a 6 hooks wide closure so is a good, supportive band.  The straps are semi adjustable with the front allowing ever so slight give in the double decorative straps.  The balconette cups are lightly padded which ensures the smooth lines.

The Fit

Whilst a 28GG-H cup is my preferred size, I found the 30G to be a good fit.  The cups were deep and kept my boobs firmly in place.  Having not worn a long line bra before it did feel strange to feel the band further down my body but I'm sure it's something I'd get used to.  I loved the deep band, which felt snug and comfortably firm.

Me wearing Parfait 'Danielle'

The Conclusion

Parfait 'Danielle' is an aesthetically pleasing collection and is one of the most luxurious sets I own.  The design is delicate and feminine and is actually pretty functional too, especially if you're looking for an attractive lingerie set that doesn't mean wearing something skimpy.  The vintage look with retro styling such as the deep knickers is especially on trend too.  To find something so sumptuous available in a G cup is pretty awesome and I'll most definitely be giving this the photoshoot treatment.

How would you define 'lingerie'?  Do you wear different styles on specific occasions?

Becky x

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Satchels Were Made For Me

I love bags and always carry one with me. I feel naked without one.  Having a bag was a natural progression from having my school bag growing up so when I was finished with school I moved onto an 'essentials' bag.  There's always so much I need with me such as my purse, phone, diary and not least a choice of lipbalms.

In a multitude of colours and varying styles I've always had at least one bag on the go.  I would go as far as saying my bag is a part of me, what it looks like reflects everything about me; my personality, my needs, and if my bag is shabby I too feel shabby.  Bags are a hugely important extension of me, not just an accessory, so when I tire of my bag and feel the need for a new one I take my time to make sure I get from it all I want and expect.

A typical shoulder bag has generally been my go to style for it's ease of transportation.  Grab bags, although often pretty and chic quickly become a nuisance, especially when two hands are not enough.  A style that has increasingly made an appearance in my bag wardrobe is the across body bag and, of late, the revival of the satchel.  And I have to say, the satchel is king of all bags.

Mulberry 'Alexa' - the connoisseur's choice of satchel

Satchels were once seen as the industrial behemoth used only for school books but in the last few years they've enjoyed a resurgence that's increased their popularity status as arm candy of choice on the shoulder of many a style icon.  As a thriver of colour, like a moth to a flame, my interest in satchels grew as beautiful shades and vintage patterns emerged onto the scene.  A staple shape + colour meant the satchel was redefined.

Nica Play satchel - a fresh take on old

So why do I like a satchel?  They're uncomplicated, solid, functional and comfy.  Oh yes, comfort plays a hugely important role in the bag.  If I'm going to carry half my life around with me I don't want it to be a drag, and I equally want it to be accessible.  I've realised a regular bag requires taking off and plonking on a counter or chair which isn't always convenient.  A bag at the end of a long strap and/or across your front makes life so easy and easy works for me every time.

Seeing as we're talking bags an' all I may as well introduce you to my newbie; my spring pastel trend embracing pale blue ASOS satchel.  Isn't she a pretty?!

ASOS light blue satchel - mine!

Yes, this is my new favourite bag. Until the next itch, of course...

Becky x

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Boux Avenue Lingerie Reviewed

Boux Avenue is very much the type of lingerie store after my heart.  If you've ever paid a visit to one of their boutique looking shops you'll know where I'm coming from; the huge, sophisticated black gloss doors which open to a glamorous treasure trove adorned with glass chandeliers and boudoir tables blanketed with lacy lingerie.  Boux Avenue is, in essence, affordable luxury.

I was asked to look at Boux Avenue's current lingerie collection and to choose some items which I could then review - an offer which was too good to deny!  I had a look through the website but it didn't take me very long to decide what items to pick because the choice was particularly tantilising and very quickly my basket bagan to fill up.  I found it really easy selecting what sizes I needed and adding to my basket but I did experience quite a big glitch attempting to view - and then proceed - my basket to checkout.  After some technical intervention with the 'better half' I soon found myself at the end of my online experience.  From the day I ordered to the day my package arrived it only took a matter of a few days which I thought was super quick!

My order arrived in a cardboard box which beneath that contained a Boux Avenue branded box.  It looked feminine and high end, and on opening the lid my lingerie was neatly folded within pretty pink tissue paper and perfume scented faux rose petals.  The whole box and it's contents smelled divine.

My first lingerie piece is the Angelina Strapless Bra in white (30G).  You can also get this in black but the white version stood out to me, looking very bridal and beautiful.  A complimenting mix of smooth satin and intricate lace trimmed with a centre pearl, this bra really is attractive to look at.  Half cup padded balcony styled with detachable straps means it's wearability is very flexible as either a strapped bra or strapless.

Sadly I found the 30G too small for me to wear properly, as you'll be able to see from my photos, but it still manages to look lovely.

I secondly chose to buy the Marilyn Girdle (size 12) as it's an item of lingerie I've never purchased before.  I do own quite a few suspender belts and similar garments so I was really keen to see how a girdle compared to my usual go-to attire.  I've always considered a girdle to be very old fashioned, something my late Grandma wore, but the Marilyn is more of a classical and feminine piece and supremely modern vintage.

Marilyn was easy to wear as it was just a case of pulling it on; there were no fiddly zips or buttons.  Normally I find attaching suspenders to be tricky but it was so easy fixing my stockings onto these.  My silhouette looked shaped and contained which I would happily wear underneath a dress next time I feel the need for shapewear.

Finally I purchased a pair of Frilly Milly briefs (size 12) as I just love the over the top girly look of them.  I wear knickers like these fairly often for boudoir modelling shoots and so these would be a great idea if you're looking for boudoir attire.

The pink and black alternate frills were cute but not overpowering to look at because of the muted pink shade.  They are styled highly cut across the bottom, like a cross between a thong and a short.   These are really cute and fun to wear just for the pleasure of it.

Boux Avenue are an attractive brand with a very recognisable and particular look which is a rarity for the British lingerie market. Their use of quality fabrics and refined designs make them desirable while their resonable prices attainable.  It's brilliant to see a high street lingerie store catering for the larger bust too and I look forward to seeing their sizing chart broaden to cover the scarcely produced 28 backs.

Becky x

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Pretty Vintage Home @ Dotcomgiftshop

Recently I said January is the month for fresh starts and new experiences and so a few weeks ago I placed my first order at vintage inspired Dotcomgiftshop.  I've been visiting the site and receiving the emails for quite a long time but I just never got to the point of placing an order.  I think I'm one of those people who are seduced by free delivery and have always been put off by the £3.95 postage charge.  I think if it were less I'd be more inclined to frequently order bits and pieces rather than fill my basket and forget about it!

I finally decided to purchase a few items that I've had my eye on, and with the early January sale on, the prices were all the more enticing.  My order arrived earlier this week.  It took a little longer to turn up than I was anticipating (especially as I'd paid for the delivery, and orders I'd placed elsewhere online - which were free p+p - had come before this did) which I'm guessing was down to a successful flurry of orders down at Dotcomgiftshop central.

Anyway, here's what I got >

Blue Retro Vintage Kitchen Wall Clock

There were three different colours of the clock: cream, red and blue, and I was undecided whether to go for the bold red or the powder blue for the kitchen.  After much deliberation I opted for the blue.  I'm happy I went with this colour because although it is not the same vibrant blue as on the website, it works well with my other kitchen decorations and is actually a much nicer shade.

I was unsure what the clock was constructed from when looking on the website but I can now confirm it is wholly plastic with the exception of the metal hands.  The blue fascia has a good depth which makes it hang prominently from the wall.  The face is cream which is complementary to the vintage look.  All three colour options are £6.95 each in the sale.

Pantry Design Set of 3 Cake Tins

I first mentioned these lovely looking tins in a post last year when I was deciding which cake tins to buy.  I bought some different ones but because I still loved these I knew I had to buy them in the sale.  I paid £6.95 for them which was a brilliant price, but I was gutted to see they dropped again in price to £4.95 on Monday, the day my order arrived.  Oh well!

These tins are really well made and I love the matt finish of them.  They are really very small cake tins, not the same sizes as my Tala tin set, and you wouldn't be able to fit a family cake in the two smaller tins (I guess that's why they're labelled as biscuits and sweets!) but their adorability lets them off.  Very pretty and uber retro.

Pantry Design Set of 2 Tea Towels

This tea towel duo came so daintily presented with its turquoise ribbon and tag, it would make the perfect housewarming gift.  It was a shame to spoil the party and untie it!  The cotton tea towels are a good size and thickness and both display the song birds print which match the cake tins above.  I'm really pleased with these and think they look really good.  They're £3.95 in the sale on the website.

I've already been back on the site checking out what other goodies are in the sale.  There are some matching Pantry Design items including a set of 6 spice tins down to £3.95 and a set of 3 coffee, tea and sugar canisters now at £4.95.  Also some pretty and practical storage bags, such as the kitsch Suki Jumbo Storage Bag for £2.95.

Are retro themes your thing?  Do you love a vintage kitchen or do you prefer a more modern, simplistic look?  

Becky x

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Homewares - Budget Vintage Florals

The country floral patterns that at one time were reserved for the older generations have recently made us go all granny chic, thanks to the likes of designers such as Cath Kidston.  Vintage loving fashionistas have long been rocking the trend with the regeneration of bygone era floral fashion, with the shabby chic style extending from clothing to homewares.  One reason why retro florals are now so popular is because it taps into the romantic ideals of the 40s and 50s, incorporating the wartime fascination of the make do and mend rule, when everything was simple, attractive and less commercial.

I was never one for floral anything, whether socks or cushions, so it's surprised even myself how appealed, or rather obsessed, about the trend I've become.  I just love the pretty colours and delicate detailing and it's got to be realistic looking, which is how we'll see the trend developing this year; it's all about botanicals: fine art depictions of plants and flowers.  You heard it here first.  (Well, after Vogue.)

Something I always have been and always will be is cost conscious, or 'thrifty' as is the age old term.  Cath Kidston prints as beautiful as they are can be pretty pricey but to embrace these gorgeous florals doesn't have to cost the earth.  I've been buying some bargain bits and pieces here and there and I'm going to share them with you.  You see, everyone can afford the vintage inspired look!


This is my Rosali Duvet Set from Ikea.  This was an exciting find for me as it's been hugely popular and sells out quickly.  The print was allegedly designed by Cath Kidston for Ikea some time ago but as her name isn't on the packaging you're not paying the Cath Kidston price tag.  The set comes in white or blue and I adore the blue colourway so much.  This is a bargain at £24.99 king size!

This is my Minky ironing board which I bought about three years ago.  I thought it was pretty cute with it's pink feet and detailing, and the cover was cool too but I recently found a much nicer one which suits the board really well.  The floral ironing board cover is from B & M Stores which is a haven for good quality bargains.  The pattern reminds me of Cath Kidston's 'Provence Rose' and the colour is so fresh and vibrant.  It cost only £2.99.

This was another great purchase from B & M Stores.  I wanted a sturdy box to store my surplus make up products in, and because it was to be kept in the bedroom I wanted it to look pretty.  This box is perfect and does the job well.   The sky blue is a lovely contrast against the pink flowers.  A fantastic buy at £1.99.

Now, this is a really attractive oven mitt; the colours are vibrant and it's so pretty.  It's not great for your hands, though!  I think it's not that well made in respect of the padding and fabric used, I feel heat coming through the glove pretty quickly when I'm removing a hot tray out of the oven.  I dread to think how it passed safety tests.  :-/  It cost £1 from Pound World.  You could say you get what you pay for but because I love looking at it (and it's partner as I bought two), these will be staying in the kitchen.

This is the Ditsy Paper Tray from Matalan which I thought would be great for storage.  I decided to use it as my sock box and keep all my socks and tights in it.  It's so big and spacious you could use it as so many different things such as store magazines, toiletries or some logs by the fire.  For only £5, this doesn't set you back much.

This is still one of my favourites; a white and lilac button padded floral seat cushion which has tie backs so I can secure it to my bedroom chair.  It looks so shabby chic and a perfect match.  The fabric is cotton and washes well in the washing machine, which is great news if you spill foundation on your cushion like I did!  I only paid £1.99 for it from B & M Stores (you should by now have guessed they're a good shop to try out!).

If you missed my Christmas present post last month, here's a reminder in case you can still buy this.  It's actually an iPhone case for your mobile but I bought it with the intention to fit my iPod Touch in it, which it does perfectly.  I found it in Poundland of all places for, well, a £1!  There was a choice of pink or blue and naturally I went for the blue one because I think I have a thing for blue florals.  This is a really good buy as it looks and feels much more than just £1's worth. 

Do you like the vintage floral theme?  Seen any similar items for bargain prices?  Please share if you've spotted anything!

Becky x

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