The Directional D+ List

Image Copyright: Marlies Dekkers

Lingerie for the larger busted can make a shopping trip a daunting task.  While more stores on the highstreet are realising the demand and adding full cup ranges to their lingerie departments they're usually thin on choice of style or the availability of smaller bands.  If you're looking for something a little different, more fashion forward and less frill, you can just about forget it.

There are some fabulous choices for every day bras and solution lingerie which I talk about regularly here on the blog, but recently I found myself thinking about bras that don't follow the typical mould; the type you'd see featured in the fashion pages of glossy mags and most usually modelled by a smaller chested woman.  Did these designer led, directional lingerie garments exist for busts over a D?  So I set out to find them.

Without any further faff, I'll get straight to the point: yes, there are indeed some amazing pieces for big boobs and I'm rather excited about my findings!  These are a few of my very favourites >

Huit

 'Rumeur' Long Line Bra

Only up to a D but I couldn't miss it out.

Stella McCartney

 'Jodie Rocking' Balcony Bra

Wonderbra

'Natural Lift Sexy' Push Up Bra

Pleasure State

'Glitter Spectacular' Contour Bra

Marlies Dekkers

'Dame De Paris' Balcony Bra

Gossard

'Retrolution' Half Padded Bra

Mimi Holliday

'Bisou Bisou Kiss' Super Plunge Shoulder Bra

Elle MacPherson Intimates

'Sunset Glow' Balconette Contour Bra

I'm really feeling these different from the norm designs.  Isn't mesh fabric a wonderful thing?  And lace so exquisite and yet still able to look modern!

Which is your favourite?  Or do you know of some more exciting, fashion conscious lingerie brands for the D+?

Becky x

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National Cleavage Day & By Caprice

Yesterday was National Cleavage Day but it wasn't the best of weather to be celebrating revealed flesh.  I've been more familiar with my Heat Holder socks and chunky knit scarves lately than I was in December.  We've definitely never had as much snow as we're being pelted with now, and with April now on our doorstep I've never felt further from spring.  So to be even considering baring anything beneath my neckline just wasn't going to happen outdoors.

I was quite enthusiastic about keeping with the spirit of the day and I spent lots of my time spreading the word on Twitter and retweeting other booby and cleavage related comments.  Wonderbra had drawn up a cleavage honours list, lingerie brands and retailers were offering discounts for the day and sharing voluptuous pictures,  so it was fun watching the day unfold.

Super model and lingerie designer Caprice Bourret held a Twitter competition of her own in contribution toward the day.  She asked followers to tweet photos of their cleavage and so I thought I would join in and sent my own pic.  I was amazed (and ridiculously giddy) that not only had Caprice retweeted my photo and commented that I have a 'lovely cleavage' but declared me the winner!  My prize is a By Caprice lingerie set of my choice so I dashed over to the By Caprice website and duly selected my favourite collection.  I will show you what I picked when it arrives (it's unbelievably gorgeous!)

But for now, here's the tweets Caprice declared on her Twitter account.  I'm really rather chuffed.  :-)

What did you get up to or saw happening for National Cleavage Day?

Becky x

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Happy National Cleavage Day!

Eleven years ago, in 2002, Wonderbra decided to celebrate cleavage by giving it an official day of it's own and so National Cleavage Day was born.

I really like National Cleavage Day because, to me, it represents the mile stone of acknowledging I'm a woman and being happy in my skin.  As a developing teenager I hated the sight of myself developing boobs and looking like a woman.  I didn't feel defined as anything particular when I was just a girl and life was simple.  The encroachment of womanhood threatened me and I spent half my teenage years trying to convince myself nothing was happening and hid behind baggy tops.  Now I'm a grown adult I'm relieved to say I left that feeling of resentment and embarrassment behind me.  To be proud of my cleavage is liberating and I actual revel in being a woman with all my curves now.  National Cleavage Day is a bit of light hearted fun but marks an epic personal achievement.  If you have ever felt like I did (and still can; come on, we all have frumpy fat days) then I raise my glass of pink bubbly to you -

Happy National Cleavage Day!

The 27th March also sees the Wonderbra Honours List of the cleavage kind, with 10 ladies (and 1 guy!) being honoured for their cleavage contributions with celebratory (and imaginary) OBEs and CBEs - Officer of the Breast Empire and Commander of the Breast Empire, naturally!  Here they are:

Holly Willoughby on The Voice

(Dame)

Carol Vorderman at the Pride of Britain Awards

(Dame)

Cheryl Cole on her UK tour

(CBE)

Pippa Middleton in her "Let's Celebrate" Book

(CBE)

Tulisa Contostavlos at Rylan Clark's fancy dress party

(CBE)

Rylan Clark in Celebrity Big Brother

(CBE)

Helen Flanagan on I'm a Celebrity

(OBE)

Lucy Mecklenburgh on holiday in Barbados

(OBE)

Katherine Jenkins at the Epsom Derby

(OBE)

Sam Faiers at the BAFTAs

(OBE)

My favourite faces here are Holly Willoughby and Katherine Jenkins who I agree are fantastic representatives of a well dressed cleavage.  I'm really surprised Kelly Brook didn't make the list, for her part in Keith Lemon's movie.  Who are you pleased to see in the honoury list and who would you not have included?

Oh, and before I go, I guess you've been waiting to hear who the lucky winner of the gorgeous Wonderbra is?  

The winner is...

Ria Kod

(themissdudette)

Congratulations on winning my giveaway, Ria!  I will be in touch to collect your details so you're not waiting long for your prize.  :-)

Becky x

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Wonderbra Limited Edition 'One & Only' Bra

If you read my earlier post WIN a Wonderbra with National Cleavage Day, you'll know by now that I'm, you guessed it, an official ambassador for Wonderbra's very own National Cleavage Day towards the end of this month.  You'll also have noted that I'm giving away a Wonderbra to one lucky winner.  I was asked to select my favourite bra out of the entire Wonderbra range to offer as the prize and the decision was so difficult.  There are so many sexy and cool designs that Wonderbra do, even in the larger cups, that I was spoilt for choice.  Needless to say, I made the pick and chose the 'One & Only' bra from the Limited Edition collection.  As with all limited ranges though, there's usually only a select number made, so you may, depending on the size you request, be sent an alternative colour or style.  If you haven't get entered the giveaway, you can check out the Rafflecopter here.

The Wonderbra Girls wanted to send me the One & Only for myself to wear and as the cups are available up to a G I asked for a 32G.

The Wonderbras I'm most familiar with are typically lace or satin (okay, there was a dubious sparkly one in the noughties but we won't go there) so it's pleasantly different to try out a totally new fabric design.  The One & Only is predominantly a spot mesh trimmed with narrow ribbons of satin.  Although it is a glamorous, sumptuous collection I can't help but think it has a kinkier edge with echoes of bondage strapping.  This collection surely has to be the naughty sister of the more normal Wonderbras: the fetish inspired Wonderbras.

The larger cups of the One & Only don't boast the same amount of padding as those under a D cup but I wouldn't want it to.  The cups are still more than adequately padded to provide a smooth shape without size enhancement.  The low and close central gore creates an effective cleavage with an exceptionally rounded shape.  The look is boosted and ample but remains in the natural, effortless territory.

I did find the band was a lot longer than I'd have preferred.  For a more close fitting it is best to use the first (loosest) hook and eye but I needed to use the last.  The 30 back would have been a better option.  The wings have a very slight plastic boning and then the band is a minimalist design, featuring only elastic strips which extend to the closure.

The straps are semi adjustable elastic with front satin and a mesh trim which is pretty different.  The adjusters and rings are metal which look and feel more quality than regular plastic furnishings.

The One & Only has both met and surpassed my expectations.  The design and build is solid and substantial which is an important factor in large cup bras and it looks sexy and feminine too.  If I could change one thing about this bra it would be the band.  I don't think it's appeal depends on the narrow quirky band and it would be a good firm foundation if the band was deeper and more rigid.

I've seen that you can also get the One & Only in a cream shade which looks pretty in a wearable neutral colour.

Which has been your favourite Wonderbra over the years? 

Becky x

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WIN a Wonderbra with National Cleavage Day

There's something inimitable about Wonderbra that's proven the test of time.  Generations can share stories of a personal Wonderbra experience; parents saw the introduction of the first push up bra and we couldn't wait to get our hands on the mother of all sexy bras in our teens.  The 'Hello Boys' tag line that had us all gawking at the monochrome Eva Herzigova image of the 90s is still true to the word today - that Wonderbra are the kings of cleavage!

In 2002 Wonderbra decided to turn our obsession for and love of cleavage into a day worth celebrating by introducing National Cleavage Day: a lighthearted holiday which celebrates every woman, irrelevant of chest size and regardless whether you like minimal cleavage or fully embrace it.

I'm honoured to have been asked by Wonderbra to represent National Cleavage Day as an official ambassador this year and I'm bringing you the chance win some lovely lingerie!

I've worn some stunning Wonderbras over the years.  There's one thing that Wonderbra never fail on - aside from delivering an awesome cleavage - and that's the consistently on trend and gorgeous designs. 

My current favourite collection is without a doubt the limited edition One & Only bra with it's funky fetish inspired satin trim detail.

So, personally selected by yours truly, you have the chance to WIN this stunning Wonderbra for yourself!  All you have to do to enter is complete the simple tasks in the rafflecopter below.  

Sizes from a 32-38 A-G (padding up to a D cup, 30 backs DD-G).

*As the 'One & Only' Bra is a limited edition style, you may receive an alternative style or colour subject to stock levels.

Terms and Conditions apply (see Rafflecopter).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Becky x

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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.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Read The Review, Buy The Bra

Many bras that I've had the pleasure of reviewing can now be found in various sales across the web.  Finding these elusive past season - and current season - collections can be a minefield and time confusing.  So, to make it nice and easy for you I've found some of the best places selling my reviewed bras, and some other bargains which I've not been able to get my hands on myself.

I reviewed Freya 'Ivy' Bra.
You can buy now from Leia Lingerie for £15.

I reviewed Alexis Smith 'Satin' Bra in white.  

You can buy direct from Alexis Smith and get the bra and brief set for a discounted £31.12.

I reviewed Panache 'Tango' Plunge Bra in white.  

You can buy Violet colourway from Figleaves for £15.

I reviewed 'Wonderbra Ultimate Strapless' Bra.

You can buy from Debenhams for £24.

I reviewed Cleo 'Marcie' Bra.  

You can buy from My Curves and Me for £13.95.

I reviewed Freya 'Gem' Bra.  

You can buy Blue colourway from Leia Lingerie for £14.

And some bargains I couldn't miss!

Bravissimo 'Broderie' Bra in White now for £13.50.

Miss Mandalay 'Paige' Bra in Lemon from Bravissimo now for £18.

Curvy Kate 'Thrill Me' in Jade from Brastop for £9.95

Once you've bagged yourself a fancy bargain, I'd love to hear about what you bought.

Becky x

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2012 Reflections

With 2012 drawing to a close, I can't help but think it's been a really quick year.  I turned 30 back in February, a milestone I'd long been dreading.  Now with only a matter of days before we toast in 2013 I look back and realise now it's not been as bad a year as I'd expected it to be.  I haven't suddenly aged, I haven't popped my clogs and the world hasn't stopped turning.  I've had tons of ups and downs getting to this point in the year and it hasn't been plain sailing, but it's not all been bad.  It's actually been pretty awesome in parts!  I think, without all the bad bits to go through we wouldn't appreciate the good as much.  A period of sour makes a moment sweeter.

I've been thinking about what I actually got up to this past year, so here's some of my 2012 I'd like to remember it most by.

1.  I modelled for Essentials Magazine.  I was asked to model for the hour glass figure shape and was printed on a full page when the magazine hit the shelves.

2.  My rabbit lost weight on the PDSA Pet Fit Club.  Bobby was the first rabbit to enter the famous competition and lost 800g of excess weight winning her highly commended (2nd) place.  Bobby's photos appeared in nationwide publications and worldwide on the Internet.

3.  I entered Sunday Sun newspaper competition, Miss Sunday Sun, and appeared in the paper.

4.  I was featured in CT Magazine, the publication for fashion lovers and industry insiders which launched this year.  I'm also loving my role as copy editor.

5.  I was a runner up in Freya's Blog Star competition.  I was gutted not to win but hugely excited and proud to have placed in the final.

6.  I was a Wonderbra Ambassador for the Haul of Fame campaign which was fronted by celebrity stylist, Sophie Stevens.

7.  I started to review lingerie on the blog and write about brands starting with Ohhh Lulu, although I officially started bra reviews in 2011 with my Youtube channel before I was properly fitted in the sizes I wear today.

My first official review in 2011 

8.  I was properly bra fitted!  This was the year I found out I wasn't a 32F but a 28GG/H at Bravissimo.  The passion - or obsession - took off from there. 

2013 doesn't seem so daunting now.  I don't have a scary birthday coming up and I'm hopeful about the aspirations I'm keen to fulfill.

I hope your year has been a positive one and I wish you all the best for 2013!

Becky x

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Festive Red Lingerie & Cleo Marcie Review

Red lingerie must be the most gifted shade of underwear.  Not surprising, considering men love to buy it for their special woman in their life and women feel pretty darn good wearing it.  Red lingerie defines seduction and luxury and as such deserves to be given the gift wrapped treatment on more occasions than Valentines.  Being a fantastically festive colour, Christmas is the perfect excuse.

With only a few days to go until Christmas Day itself, now's your last chance to treat yourself or your special lady to some special lingerie.  Luckily there are many options for D cups and above.

These are my favourites for stunning Christmas gifts >

The gorgeous Dita Von Teese lingerie brand, Von Follies (which you can buy from Debenhams as well as other stores), stars the exquisite Red Eyelash Lace bra RRP £30.00.  This is a beautiful collection that includes knickers and suspender belt.  Sadly only up to a DD but I had just had to include this beauty!

Masquerade Rosetti is still on my list!  It's a beautiful design and flattering balcony shape.  RRP £40.

Wonderbra has released the Ultimate Strapless Lace in a vibrant red - perfect for a feisty feeling under your strapless party dress this Christmas!  RRP £36

Boux Avenue Alexus is a luxurious silk and lace treat, available up to a G cup.  RRP £30.00

Curvy Kate Wild bra is a unique design this Christmas featuring red satin, animal print and gold trimmings which work surprisingly well.  RRP £29.00

Cleo Marcie is a stunning bra in a true festive bold red.  RRP £25.00

Santa is bringing me this bra for Christmas and he allowed me to try it on specially for this post.  (Thanks Santa!)

I'm usually a 28H in both Freya and Masquerade, but I'm finding with Cleo a 28GG fits much better.  So, judging by my experience with Cleo's Meg in a 28H, I ordered the 28GG for the Marcie.  It fits perfectly!

The band is just how I like it, firm but not overbearing.  The back fastening is only double hook and eye but it works very well and isn't narrow.  The style is balcony which cuts nicely over my bust.  It's not full covering so allows a nice shelf of cleavage.  The straps are ribbed, which I love, and they're wide enough without looking frumpy.

I liken Marcie to Cleo's best selling Lucy.  The cup fitting is very similar with the same three sections and lace panel.  Where Lucy has flowers Marcie has spots which I love.  The centre bow also has the addition of a cute tiny button.  What's different in the bra structure is the band which continues around the whole bra beneath the under wiring, providing additional support to the front.  I think it makes it look a lot more attractive too.

I fell in love with Marcie ever since I first saw it online but I was wary about how it would fit considering some reviews I'd read.  My experience has been extremely positive which I'm relieved to report.  Something I had to do with my Cleo Lucy was amend the centre gore by stitching it closer together to fit my close set boobs.  I haven't needed to do this with Marcie which is just perfect.  The band is as I'd expect and the bra is just really good fitting; it looks good and feels great to wear.  I fully recommend you give this one a go!

Have you asked Santa for anything red this Christmas?  Or do you prefer another colour?

Becky x

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