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!

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,

Cleo by Panache 'Maddie': Bra review

  Panache is a huge name in the fuller bust lingerie sphere and quite rightly so. It has been Panache's mission for over 30 years to provide women the world-over, with quality lingerie that marries form, fashion, function and affordability. The company prides itself on its desire to innovate; at product level, Panache seeks to provide lingerie for different bodies and fit needs, and on a wider scale, Panache strive to lead in a competitive market through campaigns that hinge upon promoting good bra fit and healthy body image.  

   I have been very fond of Panache for years and its sub-brands (Panache Sport and Swimwear, Masquerade, Cleo and (most recently) Cleo Swimwear and Sculptresse). Each sub-brand boasts a distinct identity, with collections that continuously deliver well-fitting and fashionable lingerie to a variety of tastes. 

   Of all of Panache's sub-brands, I predominantly wax lyrical about Masquerade (I am a sucker for luxurious and elegant lingerie like the 'Capella' bra, 'Anise' and 'Amor') but Cleo is definitely an unsung hero of the Panache family on my blog (aside from my review of the Cleo 'Lucy'!)

   What I particularly enjoy about Cleo lingerie is the trendy and fresh vibe that permeates the collections. The designs are fashion-led, with popping colours, quirky prints and pretty detailing; all of which serve as a reminder that fuller bust lingerie can be fun, young and playful!

   When Panache got in touch with me and asked whether I would like to review some of their lingerie, I jumped at the chance. I was incredibly excited to receive a parcel with not one, but two gorgeous Cleo sets inside! One of the sets that I received was the Cleo 'Maddie' bra and matching briefs in aqua..

   The Cleo 'Maddie' comes in sizes 28-38, D-H and is available in various colourways: continuity shades include black and 'nude', fashion variations consist of animal print and aqua, with 'strawberry' and 'floral' as exclusives to Bravissimo. 

   The set that I received was the 'Aqua' colourway; a zingy electric blue/ turquoise shade with a contrasting pink button detail at the centre gore. The bra is a moulded balconette, featuring subtly textured, striped, seamless cups, which are edged by a picot trim. As a regular wearer of moulded plunge bras (such as the Freya Deco), I was especially interested to try a balconette style moulded bra. 

   Neon brights are big news for Spring/ Summer 14 and the electric blue of the 'Maddie' is even more vibrant in the flesh. I instantly fell in love with the highly-saturated aqua shade and the subtle sheen of the fabric, which makes the set look rather luxurious. The pink button detail adds a pop of clashing colour, lending to the set's playful aesthetic.

   Panache have taken the humble seamless bra and have updated it with a stylish stripe pattern, giving the bra subtle textural and visual interest, without compromising on practicality. Generally, the 'Maddie' gives a smooth look under clothing, however, I do find that the lace trim edging shows through slightly under tighter tops and dresses.

   I originally asked for a 30FF in the 'Maddie', but due to recent weight loss, I found myself needing a 28FF instead. Compared to other Cleo styles that I have tried (e.g. 'Lucy', 'Eleanor' and 'Marcie'), I would say that the 'Maddie' comes up looser in the band and more 'true to size'.

   The band does feel quite stretchy and after a few wears, I have already found the need to move on to a tighter hook. (The back band is also quite thin compared to that of some of my other bras - an feature that may not be to everyone's taste.)

   I am pleased to report that the straps are fully adjustable, allowing for increased longevity of wear and a tailored fit (which is ideal for women of different heights and builds). The straps are also quite thin, at just 1.3cm thick, making them well-suited to a Summer wardrobe. It is worth mentioning that the straps are quite widely spaced and this design feature is equally reflected by the wider underwires.

 

   This brings me to talk about the fit of the 'Maddie', which seems slightly better suited to wider-set breasts. The 28FF is my best fit, although the wider wires and wide strap placement are not the best match for me. As a result, I experience a little bit of 'gapping' at the top of the cups near the armpit, with the straps cutting in slightly at the armpit also (a result of the design being too wide for me). I also find that the 28 back does not completely tack to my sternum, which suggests that this bra is more compatible with shallow breasts.

   Aside from a few fit issues (which are predominantly due to shape incompatibility), the 'Maddie' does feel comfortable to wear. The fabric is soft against the skin and the bra gives a lovely rounded and uplifted shape, resulting in a natural-looking 'Marie Antoinette' cleavage that is ideal for everyday! I also really like the balconette cut, which lends itself well to square necklines.

   I received the matching 'Maddie' briefs in a size 12 (my usual Panache brief size) and they fit perfectly. The shorts feature an all-over seamless stripe pattern, complemented by two diagonal stripes of picot trim and a central pink button detail. The briefs are made of a polyamide, elastane and cotton blend and the material feels buttery soft and smooth against the skin.

   The cut is also very flattering and the briefs have a good amount of stretch, meaning that there is no uncomfortable digging in. My only criticism is that the button prevents the briefs from being 100% seamless, but on the whole, these briefs really deliver on practicality, flattering fit and fashionable design! (Plus, hooray that they are machine washable!)

   The Cleo 'Maddie' set is a great 'fashion staple' and an excellent option for fuller busted ladies who are in search of an eye-catching and trendy moulded balconette bra that serves up comfort, support and style in equal abundance! This set would definitely have appealed to my teenage self too and I am glad that Cleo by Panache is catering fun and practical lingerie solutions to a younger market. The 'Maddie' looks set to remain a continuity style in the Cleo range for seasons to come, with a scrumptious raspberry version coming out this A/W14. 

Cleo 'Maddie' in Raspberry (Coming this A/W14)

   Cleo lingerie is very reasonably priced and the 'Maddie' set comes in at £25 for the bra and £12 for the briefs, available at a range of retailers, such as Figleaves, Bravissimo and Brastop.

   Keep your eyes peeled for another Cleo by Panache review coming soon and in the meantime, check out the rest of Cleo's gorgeous new Lingerie and Swimwear collections.

What are your favourite pieces from Cleo's latest range?

Love,