Parfait by Affinitas 'Jeanie' bra review - a contender for the 'Deco'?

   As regular Undercover Lingerista readers may know, I am a huge fan of moulded bras and I often find myself reaching for a moulded plunge/ t-shirt bra on a daily basis. One bra that I particularly sing the praises of is the Freya Deco bra, which I continue to buy again and again in as many colours and prints as my bank balance will allow! Thanks to the 'Deco's simple but well-constructed design and the great support and cleavage that it gives, it has been hard for me to find a moulded bra that holds a candle to it. For quite some time, I have longed to find another bra that gives me a cleavage to rival the 'Deco' (without being very padded) and it seems that the day has finally come..

   When 'Parfait' by Affinitas came on to my radar, I unsurprisingly fell in love with the gorgeous designs (who can resist the array of pretty colours and beautiful lace, ruffle, bow and charm details?) As a result, I almost bypassed their lingerie 'basics' . Fortunately, one day I spotted 'Jeanie' in her simple but effortlessly wearable glory and found myself longing for just one more t-shirt bra.. 

   As Affinitas Intimates is still a relatively new brand in the UK and it is not yet stocked in major department stores, I decided to search for a UK stockist of the 'Jeanie' online..to no avail! Just when I thought that it was a futile search, the delightful Cha from Large Cup Lingerie said that she could source it for me and send it on! Given that in my review of the Parfait 'Fiona' camisole, the 30F was a tad too small in the cups, I wasn't sure whether I would need a 30F or 30FF in the 'Jeanie', so Cha kindly ordered both sizes for me to try.

   Firstly, I cannot recommend Large Cup Lingerie enough - it is a brilliant site for busty ladies, offering some amazing bargains, great customer service and FREE international delivery! What's not to love? True to form, the 'Jeanie' was ordered and posted out quickly to me.

   The Parfait 'Jeanie' is a moulded bra made from smooth microfibre with powernet back wings for support. Given that Affinitas do not stock 28 backs in their ranges, it was good that the 30 back 'Jeanie' fitted me fine. Interestingly enough, when I compared the widths of my (albeit worn) Freya 'Deco' bra in a 28FF with the Parfait 'Jeanie', the 'Jeanie' was quite a bit smaller in the band. This seems to reinforce that Parfait 30 backs do come up more snug than many 30 backs in other brands.

   With regard to sizing, I am surprised to say that I got on slightly better with the 30F 'Jeanie' than the 30FF. There was not a huge amount of difference between the sizes, but I did notice a bit of gaping at the top of the cups in the 30FF, so sizing down to the 30F eliminated this problem. 

   It is interesting to note that the construction of the 'Jeanie' does alter slightly between F and FF cups. The 30F fastens with two hook and eye closures, whereas the 30FF has 3 hook and eye closures for added support and anchorage. I also noticed that the straps on the 30FF are the same width as those on my 'Deco' bra, being 0.5cm wider than the straps of the 30F 'Jeanie':

   The actual fit of the 'Jeanie' is rather 'jeanie'-ous, if you'll forgive the pun! The fabric is incredibly soft against the skin and very comfortable to wear. It is completely seamless, making it ideal for giving a streamlined shape even when worn under the tightest of clothing. I love that the straps on the 30F 'Jeanie' are that bit thinner than the straps on most of my other bras. It is so hard to come across fuller bust bras that have thin straps that will work under strappy tops, but this bra delivers (up to an F cup at least!) - no more bra straps stealing the show! 

   The 'Jeanie' does bear quite a striking resemblance to the Freya 'Deco', but that said, there are a few subtle differences between the two bras..

1. The 'Jeanie' boasts a dainty black bow and silver heart charm at the centre of the cups, adding elegance to an otherwise basic bra: 

2. There are thinner straps on the 'Jeanie' up to an F cup

3. The 'Jeanie' has mesh back wings rather than the same material all the way around on the 'Deco'

4. Softer elastic straps on the 'Jeanie'

5. Marginally wider/thicker back band on the 'Jeanie'

6. The cups of the 'Jeanie' also appear to be a bit wider and more shallow than those on the 'Deco'

7. Centre gore wires are slightly further apart on the 'Jeanie' (See below):

   There is not a vast amount of difference in the fit of the 'Jeanie' and 'Deco' and both bras give a lovely rounded and uplifted shape with a cracking cleavage to boot! One thing that does frustrate me a little about the 'Jeanie', however, is that the central wires do not sit completely flush against my chest (this was not rectified when I sized up to a 30FF, so I think that this issue could be eliminated if the 'Jeanie' came in a 28 back!)

  In my opinion, the 'Jeanie' is a 'must-have' for any underwear drawer. It is perfect for low-cut tops, V neck shirts and tight fitting dresses and it would also make for a comfy t-shirt bra. If you're looking for a plunge bra that will give you fabulous cleavage, whilst feeling so soft that you won't want to take it off, then this bra is for you! 

   Although I still love my 'Deco' bras, the 'Jeanie' is a great alternative and it costs a purse-friendly £26! (The 'Deco' is £30) 'Jeanie' will also be available in Nude and 'European Nude'. Keep your eyes peeled on Large Cup Lingerie as 'Jeanie' will be coming soon to the site. 

   I can't wait to review more from Parfait by Affinitas and will be looking forward to the new collection launches. It's easy to get lost in the beauty of the satin and lace Parfait sets, but there's also something to be said for always having the bra 'basics' - 'Jeanie' looks set to be a well-loved addition to my bra-dobe!

Love,

Kitty xo

Lazy living with 'Lazeme' and Freya loungewear!

  It goes without saying that having a bit of ‘down’ time is a welcome respite in today’s constantly ‘on the go’ society. There is nothing better than finishing work for the week; having a lie-in, a late breakfast and a hot chocolate in your pj’s, whilst catching up on your favourite TV programme…

  Although you may own a gorgeous selection of lingerie and swimwear, what does your nightwear and loungewear say about you? How many of you can admit to keeping that old nightie that should have been binned years ago or that shapeless top and shorts that you bought in the sale..or maybe your boyfriend just wants his t-shirt back?

  When going through my wardrobe before I moved house, I was shocked to discover the quantity of badly fitting nightwear that I had kept in storage! As many girls with curves will admit, it is so difficult to find well-fitting and pretty nightwear that accommodates for a bust. It is annoying to have to buy a top a size or two bigger than your bottom half, as it leaves excess material, which swallows up any semblance of a figure.

  If you, like me, have felt nauseous at the thought of a sleepover or staying over at a guy’s house and showing off your badly fitting 'Hello Kitty' nightie, it is definitely time for you to join the loungewear revolution!

  The answer to my loungewear prayers came in the form of Lazeme (who stock an amazing array of swimwear, beachwear, and most importantly, sleep and lounge wear!) As a big Freya lingerie fan, I was thrilled to see that Lazeme stocked a number of Freya loungewear products.

  I absolutely loved the Freya Lounge ‘Gracie’ chemise, which is £29 and comes in three colours; black, lupin pink and teal. The best thing, is that Freya's knowledge of catering for bigger busts does not stop at their lingerie and swimwear. Freya have employed dual sizing in the 'Gracie', merging your clothing size (XS-XL) with your cup size (medium bust: B-DD and fuller bust: E-G), providing a superior fit.  

 

  With a 28FF bust and a clothing size of  8-10, I was not sure whether to order the 'Gracie' in a small (E-G) or extra small (E-G), so Lazeme kindly sent me both to assess the fit. I chose the teal colour 'Gracie', which arrived very quickly and was beautifully packaged, complete with a glossy brochure:

  As you can see from the picture, the 'Gracie' chemise is a little bit darker in colour than the product photo, but the rich teal colour will suit a variety of complexions. The actual design is fairly classic, offset by intricate, scalloped lace, which borders the bust. The bow at the centre of the 'V' cut neck line adds a touch of romance, making the chemise very girly, whilst also being quite sexy.

  My favourite feature, above all, was the 'secret support panel', which, although hidden from the outside, is integral to the support of  your bust. The feel of the inner panel's band is very different from that of a bra - it feels supportive under your bust, without being in any way constrictive.

  Most importantly, due to the viscose lycra fabric content, the 'Gracie' not only skims your curves, but is also extremely soft against your skin. I found the chemise very comfortable to sleep in and the inner panel kept my bust supported, no matter how much I tossed and turned in my sleep!

  With regards to sizing, I found that Freya's sizing in the body was quite generous in the 'Gracie' and I ended up keeping the XS (E-G). 

  The 'Gracie' is certainly a breath of fresh air for any curvy girl who needs a nightwear revamp. Freya shows that even when you are lounging around the house, that there is now all the more reason to feel comfortable, supported and fashionable. Next on my wishlist is definitely the 'Gracie' black long sleeved top and pj bottoms (£28 and £28) - ideal for the upcoming winter months!

To see Lazeme's full range of sleep and loungewear products, click here.

Love,

Kitty xo

Vintage beauty: The Freya 'Loretta'

  Although bold prints and vivid colours are big news this summer, the 'Loretta' bra from Freya's Spring/Summer 2011 collection offers a great alternative to summer brights. The 'Loretta' takes on a much more girly trend of subdued pastel hues and floral and paisley patterning, giving off an air of lady-like glamour and an elegance that is sure to capture any girl's heart...

  The 'Loretta' is a gorgeous vintage blue colour, complimented by delicate flower-embroidered cream mesh panels. The blue of the cups is nicely set off by pale pink and green floral accents, whilst the paisley print gives the bra a very vintage feel. The bra also features little blue bows on the straps and the hanging gem charm at the centre gives the bra a more glamorous feel!

  Aside from the obvious visual beauty of this bra, Freya never compromises on fit. The 'Loretta' is a full cup, underwired plunge - ideal for bigger busted girls who want good coverage, as well as a bra that looks good! The band is firm without being uncomfortable and the cups give great shape and support.

  I found the fit and shape of this bra similar to the Freya 'Arabella' (Click here for my review). The main difference between the 'Loretta' and 'Arabella' is that the 'Loretta' has the advantage of being made from a softer and silkier fabric, which adds to its comfort and wearability.

(Freya 'Loretta' bra, £30)

  The best thing about the 'Loretta' is its size-inclusivity - boasting 28-38 bands and cup sizes from a B right up to an H! To complete the set, you can pick either shorts (£12.50), thong (£14.50) or briefs (£15.50), which boast matching lace and paisley patterning.

  The Freya 'Loretta' is a true 'must-have' for this summer and would be perfect under a floaty tea dress. Additionally, the 'Loretta' will be the perfect transitional lingerie piece to lead you into fall's more muted tones. This bra is so beautifully designed that it seems almost a shame to cover it up! If you're looking for summer romance, the 'Loretta' is sure to set hearts a-fluttering!

Love,
Kitty xo

Part 2: Bust boosting bras for bigger busts - spotlight on the Freya "Deco"!

In my last blog, I wrote about the best cleavage-enhancing bras for smaller busts and this time, my focus is on bigger busts. Although busty ladies may not want a padded bra, there are options out there for enhancing those curves! For the bigger busted lady, a bust-boosting bra may be more about shape and lift, whilst creating a gorgeous silhouette under clothing!
I've been wanting to blog about this bra for a long time, so this post seems the perfect place to do it. The bra I am talking about, was the first ever bra that I bought after I was re-measured in Bravissimo as a 28FF. Since that day, this bra continues to be my favourite bra and is an absolute staple for any larger busted lady! The best thing, is that starting at a 28 inch back and going up to a GG, it really encompasses a wide range of sizes...I am, of course, talking about the Freya "Deco" bra (£30).

The "Deco" comes in lots of great colours, but black and nude make for very versatile shades that will be perfect for the vast majority of your wardrobe:

If you're looking for something a little bit more eye-catching, then the "Deco" also comes in charcoal, lupin, pomegranate and most recently pistachio:

Freya have also brought out 'Frida', 'Lydia' and recently 'Carly', which are based on the same design as the classic "Deco":

As a moulded plunge bra, you can expect the "Deco" to be extremely flattering, giving a great rounded shape and superb uplift. All versions of the "Deco" are totally seamless under clothing, giving a stream-lined shape and fabulous cleavage. To top it off, this is one of the most soft and comfortable bras ever and ideal for everyday wear, as well as for a night out! The straps are relatively wide, which is perfect for supporting larger cup sizes, but wouldn't work so well under thin-strapped tops or dresses.

Size-wise, I must mention that I (like many other people who have tried this bra) find that the cups are on the generous side, so you may need to size down - I bought a 28F, although I am a 28FF in most bras that I buy. The Bravissimo website reviews also mention that the back size for the "Deco" comes up a little loose, although I did not find this to be an issue myself. (Just a few pointers, if you are thinking of buying the "Deco"!)

I really can't recommend this bra enough. It is one of the few bras that I can really see myself purchasing again and again. Here is my current collection - my favourite has got to be the Frida!

I have also heard that Freya is bringing out a concealed padding version of the Freya "Deco" for this Autumn/Winter - this may not be for everyone, but is certainly great for those that like a bit of extra va-va-voom! Another "Deco" to look out for this A/W is the "Taylor" bra - I am certainly adding this beauty to my wishlist:

That's all for this time..I think a Part 3 is definitely in order! There are some other great bras that I am keen to review for bigger busts, so stay tuned for more reviews!

Love,

Kitty xo