Stress-free online shopping: Perfect Christmas gifts for lingerie lovers!

(Pic credit: Nordstrom)

   It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Xmas lights are twinkling, you're permanently humming Christmas jingles and you can almost smell the mulled wine... the festive season is most definitely upon us! In the run up to Christmas day, shopping for the perfect gifts for family, friends and loved ones can be as exciting as it is stressful, particularly when the highstreet is buzzing with frantic shoppers! 

   With the days getting darker and the frost setting in, my favourite way to avoid present shopping mania is to shop online! What could be better than browsing all of your favourite stores and brands in the warmth and comfort of your own home?

   One of the reasons why I buy online is because I can shop around for the best products, find great offers and I can have a parcel on its way to me with a click of a button... no queuing necessary! I love to shop for lingerie online and given that so many companies offer free delivery and returns, it has become one of my preferred ways to shop! (Note: always remember to check a company's Xmas shipping dates and the returns policy!)

   This Christmas, there is an amazing range of gorgeous lingerie products on the market to tickle your fancy. Whoever you are treating this season and whatever your budget, you are sure to find some lingerie gems online!

   Here is my online lingerie wishlist for this season - hopefully you're reading, Santa...!

BRAS

Fauve Bronte longline bra (green), £72 reduced to £36

   Fauve lingerie is synonymous with luxury and sophistication and this stunning longline bra is no exception. Inspired by oriental lacquerwork, 'Bronte' exudes decadence and exoticism with its exquisite oriental blossom pattern, satin-feel fabric and ornate black embroidery. At £36, this bra is just a snip of its RRP but it would undoubtedly make its wearer feel a million dollars!

Sizes 30-38 B-G 

Also available in silver and light green.

Parfait by Affinitas Charlotte bra in purple wine, £30

   The popular pin-up inspired 'Charlotte' bra from Parfait by Affinitas is back in purple for A/W14! This gem-tone matte and high shine satin bra is embellished with contrasting black piping for a retro twist. Its lightly padded, moulded shape makes this glamorous bra the perfect combination of style and substance!

Sizes 28-40 D-K

Charlotte is also available in peach, red, dusty rose and wild pink.

Pour Moi? Forbidden half padded bra, £28

   The Pour Moi? 'Forbidden' is the ideal bra for adding sex-appeal to your underwear collection. This racy boudoir half padded bra cleverly merges feminine lace and bow detailing with edgy, bondage-inspired strapping cut-outs and black piping, for a look that is undeniably directional and sexy!

Sizes 30-40 A-G

Freya Pansy longline bra, £36

   If you're looking for a bra that fits like a dream and is effortlessly stylish, this new longline from Freya is a must-have! The photo-realistic pansy print is eye-catching in a palette of vivid blue and purple hues, offset by elegant black lace. Its lightly padded shape and 6 hook and eye fastening ensures firm support and a gorgeous cleavage to boot!

Sizes 28-38 C-G

Cleo by Panache Neve strapless bra, £28.50

   Cleo by Panache understands that a strapless bra should be supportive, functional and fashionable...  and the 'Neve' delivers just that! This smooth, seamless plunge bra boasts a magenta base with a black mesh overlay, accented by a flirty bow and heart charm motif. Removable multi-way straps make this bra incredibly versatile - a 'must' in every lady's underwear drawer, particularly during party season! 

Sizes 28-38 D-G
 

BODYWEAR/ BOUDOIR WEAR

Curvy Kate Ritzy babydoll, £40

   Flirty, sexy and utterly glamorous, say hello to the festive scarlet 'Ritzy' babydoll from Curvy Kate! Based on Curvy Kate's popular 'Ritzy' balconette bra, this babydoll delivers sophisticated styling alongside uplifted 'cakes on a plate' cleavage. The lipstick red colour and chic pin-stripe pattern coupled with feminine embroidery and a diamanté drop pendant give this babydoll serious boudoir appeal!

Sizes 28-38 D-HH

Also available in black/poppy and black/almond.

Gossard Rochelle slip, £59

   With its opulent teal base, subtle scalloped edging, delicate swirl embroidery and a scattering of sequins, the 'Rochelle' slip by Gossard is luxuriously elegant and guaranteed to impress! This slip boasts a deep 'v' plunge, drawing attention to the cleavage, whilst mesh panels sculpt your curves to create a beautiful, feminine silhouette - perfect for wearing as a boudoir piece or under a party dress!

Sizes 32-36 B-E

Freya Icon underwired padded plunge babydoll, £52

   Freya fans, rejoice, because the 'Icon' has arrived and is now available as a babydoll! Based on Freya's best-selling 'Deco', the 'Icon' delivers the same bust-boosting shape and support with its smooth, moulded cups and plunging neckline. Freya has given a 'classic' a glamorous makeover, adding dove grey lace overlay to the cups and a double layered skirt of pink and grey mesh. Every lady needs a piece of boudoir wear that also delivers great support!

Sizes 28-38 D-G

Reckless Wolf Raw black strap body, £120

   If you haven't discovered Reckless Wolf yet, prepare to be bowled over by the ultra edgy and directional lingerie and bodywear collections. The 'Raw' strap body exudes sex appeal with its cage effect strapping, sheer panels and raunchy cut-outs. This bodysuit is certain to drop jaws and get pulses racing - a showstopper through and through!

XS - 30B - 32B
S - 32B - 34B
M - 32D - 34C
L - 32DD - 34D

(N.B. Reckless Wolf can custom make any piece at no extra charge - ideal if you have a larger bust!)

STOCKING FILLERS

Playful Promises frilly knickers, £10

   If you're stuck for sexy stocking fillers, these gorgeous vintage-style frilly knickers from Playful Promises are the perfect solution! Fashioned from sheer mesh with a cheeky ruffle design and flirty satin bows, these knickers are an inexpensive Xmas treat!

Sizes S-L
 

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What do you think of my Christmas lingerie wishlist?

I'd love to know what you are hoping to receive under your Xmas tree!

Love,

Copping a feel with Ann Summers and Coppafeel! for Breast Cancer Awareness

   As many of you know, October marks Breast Cancer Awareness month; an international campaign fronted by charities to increase breast cancer awareness and raise money for research into prevention and treatment. According to statistics, nearly 50,000 people every year are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK (source). Although breast cancer predominantly affects women, around 400 men are diagnosed annually, meaning that it is vitally important for everyone to check themselves regularly and understand what normal feels like for their body.

   Coppafeel! is an amazing charity that has been particularly busy in their crusade for cancer awareness since 2009. Coppafeel! was founded by Kris Hallenga, who was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer at just 23, and since then, she has made it her mission to bring breast health to the forefront of young people's attention. Coppafeel! integrates their message into 'everyday life' by taking to festivals,  universities, schools and workplaces, organising events, social media campaigns, fundraisers and celebrity collaborations to encourage people to 'cop a feel' and, ultimately, save lives! 

   This October, Ann Summers has become the latest brand to collaborate with Coppafeel! through the launch of their #showthemsomelove campaign. As a brand by women, for women, Jacqueline Gold (CEO of Ann Summers) states: "We are incredibly proud to support Coppafeel! and their vital message. Breast cancer devastates the lives of too many women and it is our hope that this partnership will help remind all our customers to check themselves often, be aware of the symptoms and give generously to Coppafeel!, who work tirelessly in the fight against breast cancer".

   Ann Summers has been flying the flag for breast health and cancer awareness through the distribution of in-store awareness leaflets and a free text reminder service has been created to encourage customers to check themselves regularly (text ANN SUMMERS to 70300). Additionally, Ann Summers has organised in-store (and head office) fundraisers to support the cause, including a special press event to celebrate Ann Summers' partnership with Coppafeel!

   The event took place at the Westfield Stratford City Ann Summers store and there was a real buzz outside the store as guests (and celebrity VIP's) started to rock up. The event saw appearances from TOWIE's Sam Faiers and Carol Wright, singer Lydia Lucy and MIC's Ashley James (who I had a little natter to about fuller bust bras!)

   Never ones to shy away from the 'sex factor', Ann Summers caused a stir both inside and outside of the store by enlisting some topless 'Adonis' hunks to support the fundraising initiative!

 Kris Hallenga of Coppafeel! and Jacqueline Gold (CEO, Ann Summers) (Credit: Ann Summers)

   On arrival, guests were treated to a complimentary glass of champagne (or a smoothie!) and were free to peruse the current collections of sexy lingerie and accessories on sale.. (as well as marvel at the giant bunny display piece!)

   Kris Hallenga of Coppafeel! and Jacqueline Gold (CEO of Ann Summers) both spoke passionately about their collaboration and the breast cancer awareness cause, with Kris affirming that the partnership with Ann Summers "throughout October and beyond gives Coppafeel! an amazing platform to reach our core target audience."

    (L-R: Jacqueline Gold, CEO of Ann Summers & Kris Hallenga, Coppafeel!)

   

     Afterwards, I headed off to the Ann Summers changing rooms for a bra fit and I was delighted to see a continuation of the Ann Summers/ Coppafeel! partnership there too! On the mirror was one of Coppafeel!'s latest adverts, shot by reknowned fashion and portrait photographer, Rankin. The image serves as a great reminder to customers to 'cop a feel' whilst they're trying on their lingerie in the changing room, but also to check themselves regularly!

  At the end of the evening, Ann Summers kindly gave guests a fabulous booby goody bag to take home, including a bra of our choice, Coppafeel! information leaflets and a brilliant "I love boobs" mug and 'stress boobs' - the perfect gift for any lingerie blogger!

   A huge thank you again to Ann Summers for inviting me along to this wonderful event - it was a brilliant evening and a great opportunity to show support for such an important cause!

***

   Don't forget to keep 'copping a feel' so that you know what normal feels like for you. You can find out more about Coppafeel!'s amazing work here and if you want to receive those all-important free reminders to check yourself monthly, text 'ANN SUMMERS' or 'BOOBS' to 70300.

Stay tuned for another Ann Summers blog post coming very soon..!

Love,

Figleaves 'Lulu Tout' blogger dinner & SS14 lingerie & swimwear lookbooks

   

   As regular Undercover Lingerista readers might have guessed, I am a huge fan of Figleaves and I have been a loyal customer ever since discovering their expansive range of fuller bust lingerie and swimwear delights. Not so long ago, I was incredibly lucky to receive an (edible!) invitation to a very special Figleaves blogger dinner to showcase their new Spring/Summer 2014 lingerie and swimwear collections. 

   The event was held at the luxurious South Place Hotel, where we enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails in the exclusive 'Secret Garden' bar, followed by a decadent three course meal at the 'Chef's View' in the Michelin-starred Angler restaurant, situated on the top floor of the hotel. 

   The chef's table boasted amazing views; floor-to-ceiling glass windows which overlooked a skyline of iconic London landmarks (including the Gherkin and Tower 42), as well as a window into the bustling kitchen, where we could see our food being prepared!

(Picture credit: Figleaves.com)

   The food was absolutely impeccable and given the restaurant's seafood specialism, I opted for ceviche scallops to start, followed by confit duck... 

  

   Whilst we dined, Figleaves' head buyer gave us food for thought with an insight into the making of the SS14 lingerie and swimwear campaigns, in addition to talking us through some of the stunning new products and ranges. Figleaves' exclusive new line, 'Lulu Tout', rendered every blogger dreamy-eyed.. and quite rightly so! The collection adopts the quintessential elegance of classic French lingerie, with stylish and sophisticated separates that deliver the luxurious aesthetics associated with designer underwear..without the accompanying price tag! 

   The 'Lulu Tout' collection offers an impressive sizing range (back sizes 30-38 and cup sizes A-H), alongside affordable price points (£24 for a bra and £15-£16 for a matching coordinate). The range features 3 debut designs; the 'Amelie', 'Coco Lace' and 'Fleur Rose', which come in different colourways.

   Interestingly, Figleaves have tailored the design and construction of the bras to different bust sizes; a balcony bra for A-DD cups and a fuller coverage bra for DD-H cups. Fortunately, Figleaves understand that lingerie should be supportive and pretty in every size and it is refreshing to see that Lulu Tout's DD+ bras retain the sensuality and elegance of their A-DD cup counterparts:

LULU TOUT LOOKBOOK

   If you were fond of Figleaves' first own brand, 'Midnight Grace', you will love the stylish and whimsical French-style designs of Lulu Tout. The feminine cuts, beautiful fabrics, attention to detail and value for money are ideal for fashion-conscious women who love luxurious lingerie on a budget..

AMELIE:

   'Amelie' epitomises sophistication in classic black or electric blue. The bra features a plunging neckline and sheer mesh base, giving this bra undeniable sex-appeal. The cups boast a beautiful scalloped overlay, embroidered with an intricate, beaded spot pattern that evokes something of the Art-Deco movement. The black version exudes a timeless wearability, whilst the electric blue scores serious style points with its almost mermaid-like sensuality.

Lulu Tout 'Amelie' underwired bra, DD-H, £24

Lulu Tout 'Amelie underwired bra in electric blue, DD-H, £24

COCO LACE:

   The Lulu Tout 'Coco Lace' is the ideal bra for those in search of a bra that merges practicality and elegance. 'Coco Lace' boasts a feminine cut with a supportive sling design, helping to bring the bust inwards and upwards for a stunning silhouette. The sheer mesh cups are scalloped and finished with an exquisite pinstripe embroidery. The charcoal colourway provides a perfect alternative to black, whilst the deep emerald delivers a touch of luxury.

Lulu Tout 'Coco lace' underwired bra in emerald, DD-H, £24

Lulu Tout 'Coco lace' underwired bra in grey, DD-H, £24

FLEUR ROSE:

   The 'Fleur Rose' embodies the perfect synergy of classic, feminine styling with modern day 'edge'. Taking inspiration from the 'tattoo effect' lingerie trend, Figleaves have embroidered a sketched-style rose pattern on to the mesh cups - a particularly eye-catching combination in the nude/ black colourway! The bra's glamorous appeal is enhanced by the scalloped edging, central bow motif and pleated straps. Definitely a bra to make you go ooh-la-la!

Lulu Tout 'Fleur Rose' underwired bra in nude/black, DD-H, £24

Lulu Tout 'Fleur Rose' underwired bra in purple, DD-H, £24

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FIGLEAVES SWIMWEAR LOOKBOOK

   This brings me to talk about the final collection that was presented to us at the blogger dinner - the Figleaves SS14 Swimwear range! Figleaves is a real 'one-stop-shop' when it comes to swimwear, stocking a fabulous selection of over 40 swimwear brands. Amongst these brands, are Figleaves' own-labels (Figleaves Swimwear, Figleaves Active, Midnight Grace, Just Peachy and Sophina), which really appear to be coming into their own in the style stakes. True to form, Figleaves' own brands offer up trend-led, affordable swimwear designs in sizes 8-20, back sizes 30-38 and cup sizes up to a GG. 

   Figleaves presents key Spring/Summer 2014 trends across its collections, with an abundance of nautical spots and stripes, tropical, aztec and floral prints, retro-inspired swimsuits, high-waisted bikini briefs and longlines in eye-catching summer hues and maritime colour palettes. Here are some of my top picks:

NAUTICAL BUT NICE

Midnight Grace by Figleaves Anchor Longline Bikini, £30

   Ahoy sailor! Channel the nautical trend with this unique longline anchor bikini from Midnight Grace. A fun twist on classic nautical stripes, this navy blue longline boasts a quirky anchor pattern, set off by flashes of bright red, for a contemporary finish.

TOTALLY TROPICAL

Figleaves Swimwear Congo Underwired Padded Plunge Bikini, £28

   Sizzle under the sun in the eye-catching 'Congo' bikini! Featuring a vivid coral and black leafy palm print with glamorous gold bead motifs, this cleavage-flattering plunge bikini is sure to command attention on the beach!

FLORAL BLOOM

Midnight Grace by Figleaves Daisy Underwired Tummy Control Swimsuit, £40

   Be bold this Summer in graphic florals with the Midnight Grace 'Daisy' swimsuit. Feminine, flirty and just a bit retro, this padded halterneck swimsuit features tummy control and cup sizes up to a G, to support and flatter your curves to perfection!

SO RETRO

Midnight Grace by Figleaves Pin-Up Bandeau Bikini, £28 (high waist briefs: £18)

   Bring out your inner pin-up girl in the gorgeous Midnight Grace 'Pin Up Dotty' bikini. The all-over polka dot and stripe print is given a punchy, modern update with its vivid green hue, whilst the bandeau bikini top and flattering high-waisted bikini bottoms deliver a classic and beautifully feminine silhouette.

VIVA LA FIESTA

Midnight Grace by Figleaves Santana Frill Halter Bikini, £28

  Turn up the heat with the colourful 'Santana' halterneck bikini from Midnight Grace. This flattering halterneck bikini features a feminine floral print with a contrasting 'aztec' frill, which adds a quirky edge. The popping colour palette will ensure that you make waves whether you're at a festival, pool party or relaxing on the beach!

BOND GIRL CHIC

Sophina by Figleaves Icon Mesh Bikini, £32

   For the ultimate in pool-side glamour, the Sophina 'Icon Mesh' bikini will have you looking and feeling as fabulous as a Bond girl. This chic, black, sweetheart bikini is complemented by a seductive spot mesh overlay, which adorns the bikini neck ties and sexy cut-out briefs. This bikini certainly has a licence to thrill!

***

   Figleaves has some very exciting lingerie and swimwear designs for Spring/ Summer 2014 and I continue to be impressed with the diverse selection of designs on offer to a wide range of sizes. I was delighted by the Figleaves blogger event as a whole; an edible invitation, cocktails, fine dining and gorgeous lingerie could only ever be recipe for success! Most importantly, the event was a wonderful opportunity to share my passion for lingerie with other like-minded individuals and it was fantastic to be able to speak directly to a company that I have championed for such a long time.

   Although it doesn't take much for me to wax lyrical about Figleaves and the amazing range of lingerie and swimwear brands on their site, their own-brands are definitely something to watch out for. Take a peek at the Figleaves website to see all of their latest products and keep an eye on my blog, as I will be reviewing a gorgeous set from Figleaves' own brand very soon...

What do you think of Figleaves' own brands? Have you tried them yet?

Love,

Roses are red, violets are blue..Valentine's lingerie gifts that are perfect for you!

   The holiday of love is nearly upon us, which traditionally signals a flurry of chocolates, flowers, champagne and novelty card buying. One of my favourite aspects about Valentine's day is that it is the perfect excuse to treat a loved one (or yourself!) to a gift that can be appreciated for many occasions to come. 

   Buying lingerie for somebody else is no mean feat, so factoring in size and personal tastes is a 'must', along with considering the purpose of your gift - will the lingerie be wearable/practical/versatile or will the lingerie be confined solely to the bedroom? 

   Finding the perfect Valentine's lingerie gift for a fuller bust once seemed like an impossible task, but the D+ market is fast-expanding, bringing with it a wide range of fashionable and supportive bras, slips and babydolls to tickle your fancy! 

   If you're looking for inspiration this Valentine's day, these show-stopping pieces are sure to make anyone swoon!

   Curvy Kate 'Carmen' longline bra, £35 from Brastop

28-38, D-HH

The Curvy Kate 'Carmen' is everything your heart could desire this Valentine's day! This romantic and glamorous longline bra features half cups, for a knock-out, 'Marie-Antoinette' cleavage. The rose pink shade is offset by beautiful floral-embroidery and a pretty bow motif - you are sure to capture anyone's heart in this!

Lulu Tout Fleur Rose underwired bra (DD-H), £24 from Figleaves

30-38, DD-H

The 'Lulu Tout' Fleur Rose bra exudes seductive elegance and French charm. Exquisite rose embroidery adorns nude and black layered mesh cups, whilst the central gore is accented by a key hole detail and flirty bow. The Fleur Rose bra is sure to put romance on the cards this Valentine's! 

Pour Moi Addicted Half Cup in red, £28 from Figleaves

30-40, B-G

If you're looking to turn up the heat this Valentine's, then Pour Moi's strappy 'Addicted' bra is your perfect match! Its lipstick red shade, semi-sheer lace cups and racy strapping and tassel detailing will get anyone hot under the collar!

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Claudette Fishnet scoop neck bra, £57 from ASOS

30-36, A-G

Love is in the air! Be bold this Valentine's and 'wow' in bright pink! This gorgeous soft cup bra from Claudette features seductive, sheer mesh fishnet cups, accented by a retro trim of black velvet piping and finished with a velvet central bow. Prepare to be a knock-out in this..pink lingerie just got a whole lot sexier!

Figleaves Boudoir Carmen Babydoll, £55

30-36, C-E

Seductively suggestive and undeniably provocative, the 'Carmen' Babydoll from Figleaves is guaranteed to take your partner's breath away! Featuring sheer mesh underwired cups and unusual strapping detailing, support and sex-appeal are delivered in equal abundance! 

Hearts Amour Bra by Bravissimo, £34

28-38, DD-HH

Wear your heart(s) on your bra this Valentine's with this lightly padded half cup bra from Bravissimo. The fuchsia and black palette gives this bra a sophisticated appeal, whilst the black swirl and flirty heart embroidery are sure to make anyone fall in love in at first sight!

Gorgeous by Debenhams purple satin eyelash trimmed D-G cup balcony bra, £25.50

30-40, D-G

This purple, jewel-toned balcony bra from 'Gorgeous' by Debenhams is the ultimate in luxury for less this Valentine's. Its satin cups, black piping and pretty eyelash lace trim exude a glamorous vintage appeal that Dita Von Teese would be proud of! 

Playful Promises 'Lily' Open Cup Frilly Bra DD-F cups, £30

32-36, DD-F

Get pulses racing in this saucy open cup bra from Playful Promises, the brand's first bra to be extended to an F cup! This black satin number boasts sexy quarter cups and is completely open at the top - ideal for daring lingeristas who want to leave their loved one weak at the knees! Complete the look with decorative pasties or dare to bare!

Masquerade Athena plunge bra, £40 from Figleaves

28-38, D-H

Give in to seduction this Valentine's with the irresistibly enticing 'Athena' bra. Featuring eye-catching teal satin, mesh overlay and a sparkly bow and charm motif, this deep plunging bra delivers an enviable cleavage alongside opulent and sophisticated styling.

Gossard Retrolution Slip, £69

32-36, B-E

Ooze old Hollywood glamour in this retro-inspired Gossard slip! Featuring a deep plunge centre, cleavage-enhancing moulded cups and shaping side panels, this slip will flatter your figure whilst smoothing and contouring your silhouette. Its rich scarlet red lace, delicate bow detailing and detachable suspender clips will be impossible to resist!

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   What do you think of my lingerie picks? What lingerie will you be gifting or hoping to receive this Valentine's day?

Love,