ITEC

Well after putting on weight, I actually found I needed a bra (theres a first for everything) and so found myself walking into the first shop I saw that sold underwear (you can tell im not picky!) which happened to be La Senza, which is harbouring what could be the best bra (IMO). I'm talking about the ITEC which for those of you haven't heard is La Senzas microfibre one piece bra designed to not only look invisble under clothing but is also seam, stitch and label free.

Not one to be sway by advertising and mumbo jumbo, I thought I'd try it on and as usual put it back for not fitting right/be uncomfy/looking horrid under clothes/all of the above but 4 purchases later I'm a convert and believe me the hype is worth it!

I ended up purchasing the padded plunge ITEC bra in both black and white which has concealed underwiring and smooth moulded cups with incorporated foam padding to boost cleavage and little scallop detailing and am over the moon with them- not only do they fit perfectly, they boost the bust (which for any other A cups out there is a big deal!), are invisible under clothing (only through the thiniest of my white tank tops can you see the white bra) and are comfortable from the get go. The straps are also thin enough to not be seen when wearing camis and spaghetti strap clothing and it gives a good, even shape through clothing. Not only that but La Senza had an offer which meant £10 off the total price of both bras. I also got the ITEC in lurex pink and silver (both were half price in store), which are just as good, although I don't find the fit as good, although I suspect its due to the fact it doesn't have the little scallop edging so doesnt fit as close to the breast and give an even 'join' when boosting the bust but theyre still fantastic and I cant complain for the price I paid!!!

(sadly i look like neither of these women when wearing my bra, so therefore I add the disclaimer 'wearing this bra does not make you look like theyre sickenly attrative models')

Overall, I would recommend these bras to anyone wanting to boost their assets, while getting a smooth, invisbile look under clothing without compromising on style or comfort. A word of wording to the larger busted lady, the straps are thin so if you do need more support, a different bra might be better. The US La Senza has expanded this range so fingers crossed they'll bring it over to us as they're created the ITEC bras without underwiring and in printed versions and less 'basic' versions such as various colours, embroidered and lace versions. The range also features matching bottoms in a variety of styles that are all seam free for no VPL- perfect!

Bonjour.........

I have a gulity pleasure to admit- french boudoir chic- if its french and bedroom related I'm 99% sure I'll love it, want it, need it and quite possibly obsess over it- yesterday was such a day when I was faced with an Orange Tree french style dressing table complete with mirror AND matching mirror 3 panel bedroom screen all in white with ornate style curves and gold 'aged' detailing- it was simply divine and i had to be pressed away from them! Today I'm still thinking about them and decided to look online and lo and behold I found some corkers:

From Benardout Interiors (http://http//www.benardout.co.uk) are these simply stunning beauties:

I'm imagining this first one with my assortment of glass perfumes bottles (the sort your meant to decant perfume into and use the glass topper to seductively apply your perfume to your wrists, nape of neck, bosom etc- mine are empty!) on top and a gorgeous little stool so i can sit and apply my make up in style- simply divine!

If dressing tables arent your thing, how about this 2 drawer french desk, topped off with this heavy carved mirror set into the wall above? The desk is so gorgeous I'm almost temped to ditch gthe laptop and bring back pen and paper!

These french chests are divine- the curved legs of the one of the left are a gorgeous design feature to an otherwise fairly plain shape and the heavy carved detailing on the right is just breathtaking.

And just because you cant confine french chic purely to the bedroom, this grape carved console would look fabolous in a large hall way or lounge (now I just need the new house to fit them in!)

The Lavendar Barn (http://www.thelavenderbarn.co.uk/) is full of chic french pieces including this gorgeous Chateau Louis Phillipe What Not (I'd put this is a bathroom to keep all my bits and pieces on- all decanted and put into gorgeous glass bottles and silver pots) and stunning dressing table- a huge must for me.

This Chateau lemi dune sideboard is a show stopper and is sure to be the focal point of any room, while this radiator cover will add a touch of french chic to any room without dominating it.

And finally this heavy carved armorie is divine and big enough to fit even the most generous stash of clothes (it may even fit mine!)

New In!

After being rudely awoken by an early morning phone call and without anything to do for a few hours I decided to hit the net and look at pretty things and as always Topshop was on my port of call (I don't often buy from there but every now and again they have some great pieces- just ignore the tween stuff!)

This sequin mini skirt is very Elle MacPherson (goddess of minis and flat sandals- she wears them even in Winter!) and would look fantastic with bronzed skin, flat sandals (something simply) and a basic white t-shirt





Because I adore all things ruffley, this dress is pure indulgence for me- its red, ruffly and just looks like fun to wear! It would look amazing with thick black tights and mary janes and a black trench coat






Speaking of coats, I love this waterfall frill front belted coat- the mustard colour is very on trend and adds interest to an otherwise neutral outfit, the full skirt is just adorable especially with dress and mary janes or t bar shoes for a retro vibe. the puff sleeves are gorgeous and the frill front makes it look very designer (but alot cheaper!)







And finally are these light grey t bar heels- the light grey colour is a fantastic year round shade and the ruffle front detailing is gorgeous and will add interest to any outfit (they'd look fabulous with a black tea dress and tights- let the shoes do the talking!)

Natural face friendly make up

Inspired by an OUSA F&B forum post, I decided to find some natural, non artifically preserved make up ranges (specifically eye make up) for anyone who suffers with allergies or just wants natural beauty products. I was surprised at the variety of products on offer and thought I'd share my favourites

Up first are products by Jane Iredale (http://www.janeiredale.com/products/eyeshadows.html). She has a wide range of products products are based on micronized minerals and are made without fillers and binders (such as talc and mineral oil) and without chemical dyes or preservatives, so its safe and even beneficial to your skin. There are a huge range of eye products available including pressed eyeshadows, eye gloss, eye primer, eye liners and mascaras.

My favourites are the PurePressed eyeshadows which resist creasing and blend beautifically- my favourite is the pecan/chocolate trio and I'd use the darker colour on the outer of the eye, mid shade on the middle of the lid and lightest on the inner corner of the lid for a gorgeous multi colour co-ordinated look. I also adore the eye gloss in green and grey silk for an alternative to the classic smokey eye, which gives a pearlescent finish and is made without synthetic dyes, fillers and chemical preservatives, making the formula safe and non-irritating to the eyes. Natural ingredients such as nourishing macadamia nut oil keeps lids hydrated throughout the day. My final pick is the cream to powder eye liner in plum plus- this is the perfect colour palette to add an '08 twist to the classic black eyeliner/smokey eyed look and will look fantastic against black lashes!



As every woman knows a good base is all important for good skin and Jane Iredale has this covered. My top favourites are the Absence base with SPF 15 to not only protect the skin from sun damage but also controls oil, shine and can help minimise the look of pores! But my ultimate product has to be the Liquid Minerals which are light-diffusing, soft-focus minerals encapsulated with ingredients that can replenish the cellular layers of the epidermis. Liquid Minerals can make the skin look more youthful, diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, minimize pores, even out skin tone and adheres so well there is minimal transference. Its also available in 18 shades to suit all skin tones



I also adore their concealers. The Circe/Delete under eye concealer is fantastic for not only concealing under eye circles but also treats the under eye area with Vitamin K, A, C, D and E, as well as jojoba and avocado oil. And the Active Light concealer illuminates the skin, camouflaging signs of fatigue and dark circles and contains Vitamin K, buckwheat wax, cucumber and white tea extract to help reduce puffiness, lighten dark circles, tighten the skin and boost its immunity.



So Organic (http://www.soorganic.com/product.php?productid=1113&cat=37&page=1) is also fantastic for natural, face friendly products. I love the Sante eye shadows duo in Verde (72) which is BDIH certified and are natural pressed powders, rich in certified organic jojoba and chamomile extract, olive and essential oils that nourish and feed your skin. The Sante eyeshadow pencils are also fantastic with a creamy texture with natural waxes and certified organic jojoba and chamomile extract. My favourite is Olive to compliment the Verde eyeshadow or Pearl run along the lash lines tightly to open the eyes.



Eyeliners are make up bag staples and the Sante and Logona pencils are both BDIH certified and kind to the eye. The Logona pencils are even safe enough to use on both the inside and outside of the eyelid. My favourites are Spice and Schwarz.

I also love the Sante lip gloss pens in colours to suit everyone (and perfect for everyday wear) and Trend Sensitive Lipsticks in 14 colours enriched with jojoba oil and almond and its BDIH certified.



And finally because no outfit is complete without a coat of nail polish Sante have nail polishes available in 23 colours (sadly no black!) and are Phthalate, Formaldehyde, Toulene, colour lakes and preservative free.



And just because I adore red lips, I've fallen for this Green People Company natural lipstick in red shimmer with organic coconut cupuacu and jojoba oil and a cool menthol flavour.

Boden

Now my love of Boden is no secret- not only did they produce my gorgeous leopard print ballet pumps but also my favourite floral coat, skirt AND dress as featured in my floral post and the latest catalogue has no shortage of divine pieces to tantalise and tickle your fashion taste buds. Now I wholeheartedly urge everyone to get the catalogue/go online and browse the whole collection for yourselves, but I thought I'd give you alittle taster of what on my current wish list!

This semi fitted belted coat in Sulphur is just stunning and the perfect finishing touch to any outfits (especially those neutral palettes!) Its 100% coated PU cotton with contast print lining and is also available in canvas and denim blue and makes damp british weather a pleasure!

This retro style boyleg swimsuit is divine- the polka dot print adds even more retro glamour, while the black just screams pin up. It features removable pads (to boost the bust which I definitely need!!), adjustable halter ties (halterneck to boost the bust and show off good shoulders and decolletage), a gentle scoop back and longer leg length leg shaping- the ultimate in classic, flattering swimsuits! There are also halterneck polka dot bikini tops with matching pants, a selection of ruffle detailied swimwear and a range of contract coloured pieces including bikini tops, tankinis, bikini pants and shorts.

This fitted jersey dress with bust pleating and full inverted pleat below the bust is gorgeous and the red palm leaf print is a fantastic spring/summer piece (follow their lead and pair with red suede peep toes for a fantastic outfit). Its also available in printed blue shell and neutrals of black and brown so theres something to suit everyone! For a classic timeless look, try the black version coupled with Boden's cerise jewelled peep toe slingbacks (shown above, also available in cocoa and jade and this quote from the website says it all 'I believe they call this a statement shoe- the statement being, ‘my God I have good taste in footwear, and am fully prepared to use it’) or the Thistle cork wedges below. Sadly the man doesnt come free with your order.

These cork wedges in suede with leather lining have fully padded soles for extra comfort and the Thistle shade is fantastic with blacks to add colour to your winter wardrobe and gorgeous with spring and summer fashions. They are also available in black and cocoa to compliment your whole wardrobe and a perfect new season investment. (They're also available in sizes 3-9)

Back to coats and this contrast trim coat is pure loveliness- its semi fitted and contrasting collar, front plackets, pockets, cuffs and hem details to add extra interest to an otherwise classic style. The Mole and turquoise combo is right on the money for me (I'm imagining a black full skirt dress just peeking out beneath it with patent ballet pumps), while the ivory and cocoa is the height of sophsication and the black with white detailing is a pure classic.

This ruffle cotton dress with fitted bust and full skirt is the essential timeless classic and is fully lined for modesty. It features pintuck and ruffle detailing and comes in a range of colours from summery coral and aqua to wardrobe staples of white and mole. (sadly again man and ice cream sold seperately!)

This star burst printed top with marbled beading neckline and pleated detailing is a gorgeous summer piece and would look as good now over a long sleeve black tee as it would against bare skin in the summer sun (spf and sun permitting!)

And just because you can never have too many wardrobe staple skirts, theres this button through chino skirt in a gentle a line style available in canvas, dark olive (both perfect to channel this summers safari trend without going OTT) and dark and vintage denim (a perfect alternative to jeans!). Just add a simple t-shirt (boden have a fantastic selection),shoes of your choice and a slouchy bag and off you go!

Now this is just a small selection of the stunning Boden catalogue so instead of taking my word for it, why not pop along yourself and have a gander (and tell them petticoat pirates sent you!)

Freemans

Now shopping through the traditional catalogues, previously huge in the 80s and 90s has fallen out of favour, but I still think there are great buys to be had from them with a little bit of elbow grease and looking past the tacky/over priced/OTT goods. With that in mind I've gone through Freemans catalogue (their sister catalogue Oli is currently very in vogue!) and here are my top picks:

These are both in my shopping basket- the charcoal belted shirt dress is a classic shape updated with puff sleeves and the colour is a fantastic alternative to black (I'll be wearing mine now with black tights and boots and gladiator sandals come summer!). These pleated city shorts are fantastic and the choice of mauve and black is just too much to bear (so I've ordered one of each!) These are a fantastic alternative to jeans (as I no longer own any, I'm looking for as many jeans alternatives as possible!), can be dressed up or down, rain or shine and for any occasion. I'm thinking thick tights, patent ballet pumps and pea coats now- flat sandals and tank tops in summer! You could also add a short belted trench in taupe or olive for a safari lead look!

Next up is this fantastic selection of dresses- the organza shift is a fantastic party dress and a twist on the classic shift, the satin jewelled dress is pure glamour and very Katherine Heigl red carpet, the purple cross fronted dress has sexy secretary written all over it and the japan print dress is a gorgeous shape with a fabulous print! The spotted tea dress with skinny belt is just retro gorgeousness and would look divine with mary janes and is a pure classic!

Finally are these wide leg navy trousers- they have a fantastic fit, a great flattering cut, a choice of colours and the navy worn wide legged is pure nautical and so now it hurts! I'll be wearing these instead of jeans with gladiator sandals and a boat neck tee in the summer and with stripey socks, mary janes and a belted cardi now!

These are just a few of the fab pieces on offer now (some are even in the sale even though their from the newly released catalogue!), with free delivery and returns- I'm very impressed!

Up next on my journey of the catalogues is Boden..........

More new thingys!

Well today turned into an impromptu shopping trip after visiting a friend (not that I need an excuse to shop although in my defense since putting on 1.5 stone, nothing fits so I have alot of clothes to replace and even more to put on ebay!).

I bought- as well as picking up an Estee Lauder advanced repair night duo set for £40 (such a bargain!), I also bought a striped nautical style blazer, nautical striped blue and white full skirted dress with collared bust, yellow and white striped full skirted dress with collared bust and cross over straps and a patent vinyl nautical style tote with red detailing and anchor print!

Only trouble is now I'm even more unsure of what to wear to the upcoming Christening (OUSA F&B forum readers will know all about my ongoing dilemma!)- do I stick with the black fit and flare dress with mary janes and pink tote bag, or go for the H&M fit and flare striped dress with mary janes (for a vintage dolly look!) or one of the new nautical dresses with a fitted black cardi and mary janes?