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,

Flirty in 'Fiona': Parfait by Affinitas 'Fiona' camisole review

   If you have read my blog about the Affinitas Intimates A/W12 press event a little while ago, you may have noticed that I took quite a shine to the Affinitas fuller bust range, 'Parfait', which encompasses sizes 30D-40G.

   Although I feel lucky that the larger bust lingerie market is expanding and I can now get a range of beautiful and supportive bras for all occasions in my size, it is not always quite as easy to find a bustier, camisole or babydoll for larger cup sizes. Highstreet stores often sell them in standardised clothing sizes with no cup sizes, so finding a boudoir beauty to fit a 28FF is about as unsuccessful as trying to squeeze my bust into those very same standardised undergarments! 

   As you can imagine, I was thrilled to come across 'Parfait' as the current collection offers some really glamorous and sexy boudoir pieces in addition to flirty everyday bras and comfy basics. One of the designs that particularly caught my eye was Parfait's padded wired 'Fiona' camisole in peacock blue, which Affinitas Intimates kindly sent me to try out...

      As 'Parfait' starts at a 30 back (and I'd heard reports that the 30 backs come up tighter than other brands), I decided to go for a 30F (sister size to my usual 28FF) and a size M (10/12) in the matching boyshorts.

   The Parfait 'Fiona' is a beautiful camisole made from silky stretch satin in a jewel tone blue (also comes in wine purple, black or white), complete with black lace trim along the underwired cups. The peacock blue tone was even more glamorous in the flesh and the satin has a slight shimmer to it when it catches the light. I really love the attention to detail on the 'Fiona' too - it features subtle pleats on the straps, embroidered panelling down the torso of the chemise and stylish contrasting black lace on the cups and a little bow and sequin motif at the centre of the cups.

    Additionally, the 'Fiona' boasts an absolutely knock-out detail at the back - a decorative lace-up corset design with ribbon ties and double layered mesh back panels, giving this camisole added sex appeal.  

   Aside from this camisole's obvious aesthetic appeal, it is also very easy to take on and off. There is no fiddly lacing up to do as the 'Fiona' has a half zipper and clasp closure at the side.

   I was pleased that the 'Fiona' in a 30 back was a good fit - not too snug or too loose. The stretch satin and mesh fabric makes the 'Fiona' very comfortable to wear and the material follows the natural contours of the body without feeling restrictive like some shapewear can. The only downside to the fabric is that it rucks up a little bit when worn, but it does not distract from this garment's beauty. 

  I felt very glamorous in this striking camisole and the peacock blue colour really pops against your skin tone whatever complexion you have. The black contrast lace also gives a hint of old Hollywood elegance to the 'Fiona', which I absolutely loved.

   I also really like that this camisole has moulded underwired cups - it is nice to have a little bit of lift and the 'Fiona' gives a great rounded shape to your cleavage. It is worth mentioning that the straps are only part adjustable and I had to tighten them as much as they would go. Luckily, as the 'Fiona' is not an 'everyday' item, I should still get plenty of wear out of this camisole without the straps becoming too loose too quickly. My only real regret with the 'Fiona' is that I ordered a 30F not 30FF and I feel that the cups ran a bit small (although not very obvious from the above pictures). 


   I am glad that I went for the Medium boyshort knickers (roughly a UK 10-12) as they fit me beautifully. They remind me a little bit in style of the Curvy Kate 'Thrill Me' shorts, but refined with less ruffles. Again, made from stretch satin, the 'Fiona' boyshorts are really comfortable to wear and look great on. The black lace, grosgrain sequin bow at the centre and ruffle trim make these boyshorts exude seductive sophistication and are sure to make you feel a million dollars.


   It's worth adding that these boyshorts give quite full coverage to your derrière but are still very flirty thanks to the mesh panel at the back - a great example of how less (fabric) is not always more (sexy)! Additionally, I love that they come with detachable suspenders - they look fabulous with black stockings to mirror the black lace contrast on the 'Fiona' camisole and knickers!

   I am really excited to have found 'Parfait' by Affinitas and the 'Fiona' is a truly glamorous 'boudoir' set. I also have my eye on some of the babydolls from the upcoming A/W collection which are absolutely gorgeous!

'Parfait' is certainly 'one to watch' and I will definitely be exploring more of this exciting brand in future... 

Find out more about stockists of 'Parfait' by Affinitas here.

Love,

Kitty xo

Affinitas Intimates A/W12 Press Day: Affinitas and Parfait

   If you haven't yet heard of Affinitas Intimates, you're in for a treat! Affinitas Intimates is an exciting (and relatively new) brand that boasts two ranges; one to suit a 'mainstream' market - 'Affinitas' (cup sizes 30-38 A-DD) and a 'fuller bust' market - 'Parfait' (cup sizes 30D-40G). 

   I originally came across the 'Affinitas' range and loved the flirty, feminine designs - from the pretty everyday bras to the glamorous babydolls, bustiers and chemises with embroidered lace, bows and ruffles. I was, of course, thrilled to find a fuller bust counterpart in the brand. It was such a great feeling to know that I could enjoy the stylish offerings of the Affinitas Intimates brand through the 'Parfait range.' 

   What differentiates 'Parfait' from some of the other fuller bust brands out there at the moment, is the desire to provide support as well as really fashion-forward and glamorous designs. The current collection has a wide range of styles to cover many different tastes; practical microfibre and cotton basics (e.g. Jeanie, Kelly, Casey), bras that make the cross-over between 'everyday' and 'special' occasion (e.g. Isabella, Anna) and boudoir beauties made from stretch satin (e.g. Charlotte, Fiona). The 'Parfait' range also includes bustiers, camisoles and babydolls. The brand clearly pay special attention to detail through their use of luxurious materials and pretty embellishments, so it was no wonder that 'Parfait' found a fan in me! (Product reviews coming soon!)

   To fuel my excitement about this new brand, I was delighted to receive an invitation to attend the Affinitas Intimates Autumn/Winter 2012 Press event, which took place at the Covent Garden Hotel, London.

   The Affinitas collections were showcased in the warmly lit 'Red room' and the plush red sofas and vintage-esque wallpaper gave the venue a sumptuous feel. After a bite of breakfast (fresh fruit slices and mini eggs benedict - yum!), I explored the 'Affinitas' and 'Parfait' ranges to see what they had in store for us for Autumn/Winter 2012...

AFFINITAS

   For those of you who fit into the 'Affinitas' size range, there are some gorgeous designs for A/W12. The collection is based around the concept of southern belles versus boudoir belles, country life meets the glamorous lights of the city..

   This charming gingham 'Taylor' bra set is updated in black and indigo colourways for A/W12. Gingham has made its way back into the style stakes again, so this is the perfect way to channel the rustic trend in style. The 'Taylor' also comes as a cute little chemise with a cream broderie anglaise style trim and black bow motif.

   The 'Victoria' is a contemporary interpretation of the popular animal trend. The vivid purple and white zebra print, delicate lace and pretty bows make this a very flirty and quirky set. The 'Victoria' also comes in a darker alternative of black/purple, which is equally seductive.

   For A/W12, Affinitas also have some very 'boudoir glam' offerings:

   The 'Sydney' takes on city chic, giving a feminine twist to the tuxedo. This bra set features soft satin panels in black and rich maroon with pretty detailing; a white lace trim and 'coquettish dual buttons'. This contour push up bra is the ideal cleavage enhancer and the high waist garter belt really adds to the glamour of this set.

   The 'Jennifer' provides the very best in boudoir elegance. The black mesh and lace overlay set against the sumptuous emerald green makes this a really sexy set. Aside from a cleavage flattering lingerie set, the 'Jennifer' is also available as a seductive bustier!

   As you may well know, I absolutely adore longline bras, so I did get a pang of envy when I saw these beauties! Aptly named, 'Marilyn', these vintage style longline bras and high waisted (thong back) knickers are incredibly sophisticated and beautiful. (Also comes as a chemise - below)

   Last but not least, I couldn't resist fawning over the cute Affinitas bridal lingerie set and basque - definitely one to check out if you're a bride to be and lucky enough to fit the sizing..

PARFAIT BY AFFINITAS 

   And now, to the eagerly anticipated fuller bust range: 'Parfait' by Affinitas! The Parfait Autumn/Winter12 range is every bit the decadent counterpart to the Affinitas range. The collection is like looking inside a pin-up girl's wardrobe! The range is replete with stunning satin balconettes, underwired lace babydolls, retro high-waisted knickers and more..

   I loved the gorgeous 'Angelina' set - the black polka dot mesh overlay on a metallic base gives it a very seductive, burlesque feel. The 'key hole' cut-out and bow at the centre of the bra cups is really original too. For added boudoir appeal, the underwired 'Angelina' babydoll looks like a great curve-flatterer!

   The 'Angelina' also comes in this interesting berry pink colour with mink brown lace overlay. This colour combination is proving to be a bit like marmite - you either love it or hate it. I personally keep swaying back and forth - the colour combination looks slightly odd unworn, but it looks great worn in this press picture...what do you think?

   Take a walk on the wild side in the 'Leslie', which offers both a plunge and balconette bra. The 'Leslie' is based on this season's popular 'Charlotte' bra (review to come!) The on-trend animal print, black piping, pin-up style red bows and stretch mesh look set to make the 'Leslie' another big hit for A/W!

   Say hello to all-over lace with 'Madeline'! The vivid blue scalloped lace trim and dainty bows give this padded plunge and high waisted knicker set a vintage edge - simple but effortlessly elegant!

   The unpadded 'Madeline' in grey lace with baby pink lace trim and bows - this would make for a lovely, girly everyday set.

   The 'Stella' comes in a chocolate/mink shade, featuring a decadent satin and lace combo. The central lace-up corset detail and crystal droplets make for beautiful finishing touches!

   The 'Stella' is also available as an underwired and unpadded babydoll - I love the teal gem tone!

   Channel your inner glamourpuss with the 'Alexis' in this stunning gem tone pink/purple. Luxurious satin, floral lace and a beautiful bow and teardrop crystal bead hanging charm add to this set's feminine elegance. A beautiful set both in the moulded bra form and unpadded babydoll.

   This season's 'Donna' bra is updated in mink (and black) for A/W..this unpadded set is a great 'not-so-basic' set, with its pretty bow detailing.

   The popular 'Fiona' bra comes back in vibrant scarlet red, which is spot on for A/W (being the festive season and all!) The black contrast lace trim and bow motif make this a very glamorous set indeed! This would look amazing paired with red lippie and black stockings too..

The 'Fiona' is also available in this gorgeous champagne satin and coffee lace colourway, which I slighty prefer to the red - it is a little bit more unusual, understatedly chic and incredibly sophisticated!

***

   I had a great time at the Affinitas Intimates press day and want to say a big thank you to the delightful Lynsey for taking me through the collections. I am really excited by the A/W12 'Parfait' range and can't wait to try some of these beautiful sets when they launch! Definitely a brand to watch..

To find out more about your nearest Affinitas and Parfait stockist or online retailer, visit their website here.

Love,

Kitty xo

My big Bloggiversary competition winners revealed...!

As you all know, I launched my big bloggiversary competition last month to celebrate Undercover Lingerista's first birthday!

   The task was the write a piece under the title, "The bra that changed my life" and there were a whole host of absolutely amazing prizes up for grabs from Freya, Curvy Kate, Playful Promises, Affinitas Intimates, Charnos, Fraulein Annie, Miss Mandalay, Lepel, Simply Beach, Large Cup Lingerie, Leia Lingerie, If You Please, notnaked, My Smarty Pants, Lazeme, Violet's Knickers and Lingerie Please. (Thank you to all of the sponsors again for your generosity and support!)

The response to the competition has been incredible and all of the entries were so varied and interesting in content..some of them made me giggle and some even brought tears to my eyes! 

There seemed to be a pervading message in the entries that lingerie is much more than just what we 'wear under clothes'. In many cases, one bra proved life altering, transformed self-perception, restored confidence, empowered women as masters of their own sexuality..the list goes on. 

Due to the overwhelming success of the competition, I have decided to pick 4 overall winners (who will receive 4 prizes each) and 6 runners up (who will get a prize each too!) 

And now, the moment you have all been waiting for...the winners (in no particular order within categories)!

The 4 overall winners that I have chosen are:

- Zh Xing Ooi
- Jessica DiLullo
- S. Begelfor
- Joey Haynes

The 6 runners up are:

- June Brasil
- Cecily King
- Laura Kelly
- Amelia Yousey
- Vic Horsham
- Astrid Lopez

CONGRATULATIONS! 

I will be in touch with each of you this week to discuss your prizes and getting them out to you!

Thank you to everyone who took the time to write an entry - I enjoyed every single one and it was such a difficult choice. (Keep your eyes peeled for more opportunities to win in my future competitions too!)

Aside from giving something back to everyone who has supported me and my blog, I also wanted to run this competition to lend a voice to my readers, who have such interesting stories to tell themselves. 

I will be sharing some of the winning entries on my blog in the upcoming weeks..I'm sure you will agree that the women who wrote them are as inspiring as their stories!

Love,

Kitty xo