Ann Summers Extreme Boost bra review, bra fitting and A/W14 collections!

   As one of the UK's leading 'pleasure retailers', Ann Summers is well known for being the purveyor of all things sexy! Rampant rabbits and jelly boobs aside, Ann Summers boasts an ever-expanding range of lingerie in sizes 32A – 42H (with select styles from a 30 back up to a DD cup) and clothing sizes from 8 – 24.  

   This season's lingerie collections at the Westfield store certainly did not disappoint. True to the Ann Summers brand 'identity', there was an abundance of satin and lace 'boudoir' bras in deep reds, blacks and purples, alongside chiffon and satin babydolls, camis and suspender belts.

   There was also an array of  'trademark' Ann Summers 'bedroom wear'; namely sheer lace bodysuits, dresses and bodystockings in red and black. Amongst these, however, I was glad to find some edgier pieces; a strapless lace body with 'hook and eye' detailing running down the middle and the eyecatching 'Arabella' quarter cup bra, which features an ornate red guipure lace design (below left).

   In the same vein, Ann Summers has brought out some exceedingly racy knicker designs lately, including the very 'Damaris'-esque bow back strapping knickers - cheeky, indeed!

   Ann Summers is adept at bringing out collections that boast a variety of mix and match pieces. This enables customers to choose between different bra and knicker styles in order to flatter their shape and personal tastes. Customers can also embellish their lingerie 'outfit' with a matching suspender belt or waist cincher - ideal for kicking a bra and knicker set up a notch!

   I was also impressed with the level of aesthetic detail in the current Ann Summers collections. Fashion-forward motifs such as pleated chiffon overlays, ornate embroidered trims and unusual scalloped cup constructions (e.g. the 'Marlena' balconette - top right) demonstrate that Ann Summers has its finger on the pulse of lingerie trends and that the company is keen to keep reinventing and improving its products.

    Whilst Ann Summers is well-known for its 'bedroom'/'boudoir' lingerie, lesser known is the range of 'everyday' fashion bras, which sit well in the commercial lingerie market.

   The 'everyday' collection boasts slightly more 'toned-down' Ann Summers designs, in order to be more functional and appropriate for daily wear. The 'sexy lace' bras (above) have a seamless, t-shirt bra design so as to work under a range of clothing, whilst retaining their sex appeal!

   For those who prefer their everyday lingerie to be a little more girly and playful, Ann Summers has brought out a selection of fashion bras in candy pink, pastel purple and cool mint. Satins and mesh overlays accompanied by polka dots, ivory contrast lace and bow motifs give the bras a flirty vibe without being too fussy or OTT.

  Not only are the designs very 'everyday appropriate', but they are also very reasonably priced (at around £16-£22 a bra). Ann Summers has also been promoting some bargainous offers recently, with 2 bras for £30!

   The last range of particular mention is the 'Ultimate Cleavage' collection; a collection of boob-boosting padded bras (and cami basques) with graduated padding AND removable air pads.

   Ever since Ann Summers launched the 'kissing cleavage boob job bra' in 2011, their padded bras have attracted considerable press attention - possibly due to the claim that they can boost the bust up by two or three cup sizes!

   At the Ann Summers and Coppafeel press event a little while ago back, I had the opportunity to try on some of the most recent offerings from the 'Solutions'/'Ultimate Cleavage' collection, as well as receive a personal bra fitting.

   It is worth mentioning that Ann Summers do not stock 28 backs and that there is a limited range of 30 backs available in Ann Summers lingerie (and only up to a DD cup). With this in mind, I was very interested to see how things fared in the fitting room..

   I was greeted by a lovely, bubbly fitting girl who took me to the Ann Summers changing rooms. My fitter proceeded to ask me if I knew what size I was and having been in size fluctuation over the past few months (more on that at a later date), I said that I was not sure but that I knew that I needed a 28 back. 

   My fitter reiterated that unfortunately Ann Summers did not make 28 backs and that 30 backs were in limited supply, so she would bring me a selection of bras to try in a 32 back, guessing that a 32D or 32DD in Ann Summers bras would work best for me.

  

   I tried on a selection of padded balconette and plunge bras from the Ann Summers 'Solutions' range. All of the bras feature varied levels of padding; from integrated foam padding ('Extreme Boost' bra) to removable padding ('Touch Boost' bra) to a mixture of integrated padding and foam filled removable pads in the 'Triple Boost' bra. 

   The bra that gave the most 'oomph' was, without doubt, the 'Triple Boost' bra, which really did do what it said on the tin - I looked 3 cup sizes larger and the cleavage was certainly enough to rival Jordan's!

   The 'Touch Boost' plunge and 'Extreme Boost' were definitely my preferred bras from the collection because the removable padding and graduated padding gave a fantastic boost, without being quite as OTT as the 'Triple Boost'!

    After trying on a selection of different bras, I noticed that the 32 backs were very much too large for me and I immediately put the bras on their tightest hooks. The centre gore did not sit flush to my chest in any of the bras, but the cleavage was pretty impressive! My fitter did not offer much by way of fitting advice and unfortunately overlooked the fitting issues that I pointed out above, highlighting instead which bra flattered my complexion and gave the best cleavage (more of a stylist approach than a fitter approach I felt!)

   Although my Ann Summers fit experience did not yield much by the way of a perfectly fitting bra, I did come away with a gorgeous bra that gives unrivalled cleavage! Ann Summers kindly gifted me the 'Extreme boost multiway plunge bra' in teal/black. 

   
   The 'Extreme Boost' bra epitomises boudoir glamour, with its luxe-looking turquoise satin cups and ornate black floral lace overlay.

   Attention has clearly been paid to finer design details; from the pretty ribbon bow that adorns the centre of the cups to the continuation of the lace overlay on the bra wings. For me, the 'pièce de résistance' is undoubtedly the gold embroidery on the bra cups, which offsets the black lace beautifully, whilst adding a touch of opulence!

    What I love about this bra is that it embodies a sexy spin on the humble seamless plunge bra. I found that this bra (although not totally 100% seamless) works well under a variety of tight-fitting tops and dresses, with fairly minimal show-through from the lace.

    Of course, it would be impossible to review the 'Extreme Boost' bra without mentioning the integrated padded cup design. The built-in graduated padding is made from a soft foam, which tends to be (from my experience) more comfortable and cushioning than air or gel padding (which can sometimes feel slightly hard or stiff in comparison).

      This bra claims to boost the bust by 'up to two sizes' and I would say that this is accurate - the padding and deep plunge cups lend to a very enhanced and uplifted cleavage, making this bra perfect for those looking for an impressive push-up effect!

    To best demonstrate the cleavage-enhancing properties of the 'Extreme Boost', I have taken some comparison photos, showing the difference between my staple Freya 'Deco' plunge bra and the Ann Summers 'Extreme Boost'..

   As you can see, the Ann Summers 'Extreme Boost' really does deliver what it promises and the cleavage it creates is definitely not for the faint hearted! Although I love how much 'epic cleavage' I get in this bra, it would not be my first choice for everyday wear as I tend to prefer a more natural look.

   The 'Extreme Boost' unfortunately does not fit or support me like my properly fitted everyday bras do - as a 28 back, the 32 back is too large for me and the centre gore does not tack to my sternum. That said, this bra makes for an ideal 'boudoir bra' and it would be great fun for a night out - it is hard not to feel rather glamorous and sexy in it!

   Additionally, this bra can be worn halterneck or racerback due to the multiway strap design, meaning that an extreme boost is possible whatever the outfit you wear!

 The Ann Summers 'Extreme Boost' is available in sizes 32-38, A - DD and costs £30


What do you think of the 'Extreme Boost' bra? Would you wear it?
 

Love,

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Shop the rest of the Ann Summers A/W14 collections here!

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,

Part 1: Bust boosting bras for smaller busts

Petite or buxom in the chest department, every girl likes a bit of a lift now and again. Whether it's a padded bra to boost your assets, or a bra which gives a great rounded shape, there is a lot on the market at the moment whatever your bra size.

I've decided to share some hints and tips for finding a great bra to enhance your curves. This post is Part 1 of my blog series, which is dedicated to finding the best cleavage-enhancing bras for smaller busts. Brace yourselves, ladies, you're in for a treat!

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Boob-boosting bras for the smaller chest

I've said time and time again, that there is absolutely nothing wrong for a girl to wear a padded bra. Although the media tend to highly criticise padded gel and foam bras for being "false advertising", a primary reason for buying a padded bra is to make women feel good about themselves. The great thing about a padded bra, is that it is a great alternative option to surgery for smaller busted girls who want a bigger cleavage. If a padded bra restores confidence to women about their figures, then I am 100% for that. The good news is that there are tonnes of bras on the highstreet to enhance a smaller bust...

The XXX Triple gel bra (£25) from La Senza, for example, has caused such a storm that La Senza has recently brought out triple gel bikinis. The triple gel comes in a variety of colours and patterns; from black, white, red and purple to zebra and animal print - in sizes A-DD. The bra has multi-way straps and claims to be "ultra light", boosting your assets up two whole cup sizes with its foam and gel padding concealed in the cups! If that's not an extreme boosting bra, I don't know what is!

Although the bra seems to be everything a smaller chested girl could ask for, the bra does have its pitfalls. I have tried the bra on myself in a 32DD (which is a bit small for me as my real size is 28FF) and I found that it gives a very exaggerated shape - a little bit like you have fake boobs - and it is not desperately comfortable. I don't think that the extreme boost of the XXX would be as much of an issue for A-C cups, but I feel that perhaps D and DD cups may find the padding a little bit too excessive. Personally, I would definitely prefer something a little bit less over the top, but if you're looking for an extreme lift, this bra certainly does what it says on the tin!

If you are not a fan of such an XXX cleavage, there are many alternatives available in La Senza. I would be more inclined to recommend the 3-way gel bra (£18), which gives you a bit of oomph, without making your boobs look inflatable! Another option would be the La Senza ITEC bra (£25), which is totally seamfree, very soft and uses graduated foam padding to give a more natural cleavage. La Senza's soft Cotton lace bras (£10) are an inexpensive example of more natural padding and the Lulu lace bra (£16) is great, as the padding can be removed.

Aside from La Senza's cleavage enhancing bras, Ann Summers have launched their Kissing Cleavage - Instant boob job bra (£25 and A-DD), which is a top contender for La Senza's XXX Triple gel bra (and was brought out around the same time.)

The difference between the La Senza XXX and Ann Summers' Kissing Cleavage bra lies primarily in aesthetics. In my opinion, the Ann Summers' bra is sexier and more glamorous, with its lace covered cups in an array of pretty colours. The Kissing Cleavage bra is available in red, pink and nude (all with black lace) and more recently, orchid and teal (with white lace). Ann Summers claim that this bra boosts you up one-two cup sizes, using "innovative, lightweight ‘bean bags’ inside the cups".

I have tried this bra on in red in a 32DD (which is my favourite of the colour combinations) and I think it looks a lot nicer on than the La Senza XXX bra, as the padding feels a bit less extreme. Not only is the 'bean bag' padding softer and more comfortable than the La Senza integrated gel/foam padding, but the padding can also be removed! The bra is multiway, making it much more versatile for different outfits. All in all, if I were to recommend an extreme boost bra, for cup sizes A to DD, it would be this one!

This brings me to the end of "Bust boosting bras Part 1." Next time, I take a look into finding great boob-flattering bras for the larger bust..and don't you worry, busty ladies, there will be no extreme padding involved! We all know that smuggling melons under clothing is not a good look!

Until next time!

Love,

Kitty xo