Plus Size Bra Review: Ewa Michalak PL Stalowka

The Stalowka is available in both PL and CHP styles in many, many sizes. Price is 129.00 zlotys, which is about $41.60

I may or may not have had a photo shoot with the bras when I received them on Wednesday….

The Stalowka is about a 1/2 inch taller than the Karmelki. More on that later.

The inside is lined with the softest cotton; and it’s harder to see because it’s black, but the Stalowka has the pockets for the breast asymmetry correction pads

The actual color in real life of this bra is like a happy medium between the site photo (blue) and my photos (darker grey)

I spent about 2.5 months debating on whether I wanted to order bras from Ewa Michalak. There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there about what size you should order, and the size calculator on the EM site gives very, very different suggestions than the “normal” UK size that I wear. From lots of people and the calculator, I was told to try anywhere from my standard size of 40J all the way up to a 44J.

I decided to stick with my Panache Andorra size (as it runs tight-ish in the band and smaller in the cup). A lot of feedback about the EM bras has said that you should size up in band and cup. It seemed like the Andorra size was a good place to start (at least in my mind!)

Before I post photos of me in the bra, I want to share the measurements for the 40J PL Stalowka:

• Band Length: 30″
• Stretched Band: 38″
• Cup Width: 9″
• Cup Depth: 15.4″
• Wire Length: 15″
• Cup Separation: 0.75″
• Center gore height: 4.5″
• Wing Height: 5.25″

As compared to my 40J Panache Andorra:

•  Band Length: 33″
• Stretched Band: 40″
• Cup Width: 9″
• Cup Depth: 15″
• Wire Length: 18″
• Cup Separation: 0.75″ 
• Center gore height: 5″
• Wing height: 5.5″

The Andorra is one of my absolute favorite bras, and the two (Andorra and Stalowka) are almost identical, except for small differences in cup depth and wire length. I’ve always felt like my Andorra gave me a great cleavage (obviously not the same as the Stalowka), and now I see how it really compares to a plunge style bra.

For more comparison, here’s the measurements of my 40J Elomi Briony bra:

• Band Length: 33.5″
• Stretched band: 44″
• Cup width: 9.25″
• Cup depth: 15.5″
• Wire length: 17.5″
• Cup Separation: 1″

What this tells me is that, for the most part, a J cup is 15-15.5″ in depth across the board, and typically a 40 band starts at 33″ unstretched. Except for Ewa Michalak bras, which start smaller and do not stretch as much (I mean….the Briony stretches 9.5″!!).

Also, as you can see, Ewa Michalak wires are shorter in length overall, with comprable cup width, wing height, separation, and gore height.

The biggest difference between EM bras and others? Well, obviously EM bras are padded, so there’s that…but oh goodness….look at the shape. I think I fell in love with my boobs when I put this bra on….

My poor right boob is bigger…

It’s so….so round..

Borderline buttcrack cleavage

For reference, this is what the Panache Andorra looks like on me…

Panache Andorra Bra

I swear I’ll get to the actual review in a minute here……

This whole experience with EM bras has taught me a few things:

• Where I once thought my boobs were just full on buttom, I think they are just full in general.
• I have a lot of migrated tissue still making its way back to the homeland. I’ll address this more in the full review.
• My boobs are closer together than I thought, initially. I actually do NOT fall to the center of the EM PL bras. My boobs love these!
• I miss wearing padded bras.
• I grew accustomed to the more natural shape of my boobs in non-padded bras, so the “shelf” effect of EM bras was startling at first.
• I love my boobs!!!

On to the legit review:

Features: Half adjustable straps, ability to add padded inserts into each cup to correct asymmetry, lightly padded plunge shape, delicate bows on the gore and straps, 3 sets of 3 hooks and eyes, and matching band color.

Fit: As you can see from the measurements, the 40 is definitely snug. At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to get it hooked when I first put it on, but thanks to my husband, I got it hooked. It relaxed enough for me to be able to hook it on my own. I wore it all day yesterday while at work, and while it didn’t bother me, I was pretty red when I took the bra off. It was actually a welcome change from the 40′s I have been wearing that have become too loose.

I ended up purchasing some extenders today from Jo-Anns (a 4 set of 3 hooks is only $2.99). It turns out that I really only needed an extra row of hooks for the bra to be comfortable and still supportive.  The cups themselves are spot on. They couldn’t be any smaller, as I would totally have double boob. However, I will say that because the wires are shorter (and the wing height is shorter), I do have a little bit of armpit chub that likes to visit every once in a while. Another blogger suggested that I would need to size up in the cup because this is breast tissue. But, it’s not breast tissue. It’s just armpit fat. I have lost some more weight and haven’t been working out due to a foot injury, so I am super squishy and have a lot of loose skin in my arm/armpit area. I know that if the wires were longer, this wouldn’t be an issue. Going up a cup size would cause me to lose the AWESOME look I get in this bra, and I think it would be too big. And, as it really is comparable in measurements to my other bras, I don’t doubt that the armpit chub problem is because of the wire length (or lack of).

Support and Shape: Why hello gorgeous boobies! The support in this bra is so amazing. I’ve always dreamed of having a bra that felt like my husband was behind me, holding the girls up with his hands. I totally get that same feeling in this bra! It’s like my boobs are suspended in air, defying gravity. And the shape…oh lawdy. So beautiful. I definitely do have some jiggle up top where the breast tissue is not covered. When I wore this to work (I nanny which means lots of up and down, bending over, carrying children, etc.), I was really worried that I was going to fall out of the cups, or that I would spend the day readjusting myself…..but NOPE. Not at all. My boobs, albeit jiggly, stayed put and in the cups all day. I never had to readjust at all.

Other thoughts: I think the only complaint that I have about this bra is that the underwires aren’t really padded at all, and tend to irritate my skin right where the fabric of the center gore rests on my tummy (damn that high tummy!!!). Other than that, I just can’t get over how awesome this bra is. While the cup width is the same as the Andorra, the bra is definitely constructed so differently. Instead of getting the wide shape like I get in the Andorra, I get a very projected, front and centered shape. I LOVE IT. 

Overall Grade: A… It would have been an A+ had it not been for the lack of padding on the underwires….

So here’s my take about ordering from Ewa Michalak:

• The bands are snug. Say you measure 38.5″ underbust. You should be okay getting a 38 band. But if you’re like me and measure more like 39″, you aren’t going to want to get a 38 band. You’re going to want that 40″ band. And maybe even a 42″. I also ordered the PL Carmen in a 38JJ…..the band only stretches to 36″!!!
• The cups run a size small. So, size up a cup.
• If you wear the Panache Andorra, order that same size in your Ewa Michalak bras.
• It took a week for them to make the bra, and then a week to post from Poland. Ordered on Nov. 28th, and got the order on December 12th. That’s pretty amazing! 

Other reviews of the Stalowka:  PL UndieGamer (28G)   CHP Faustine (32G)

Plus Size Bra Review: Ewa Michalak PL Karmelki

The PL Karmelki is available on offer on the EM site in various sizes, for about $39

I ordered the Karmelki in a 40J  (90J) along with my order of the PL Carmen and the PL Stalowka.

As part of my reviews, from here on out, I am going to try to include all of the bratabase measurments that I have for the bra that is being reviewed. I think that this is going to add to the level of understanding fit. 

Pics! 

Bratabase Measurements:

• Relaxed band: 31″
• Stretched band: 38.5″
• Cup width: 7.25″
• Cup depth: 15″
• Gore height: 4.5″
• Wire length: 14.5″
• Wing height: 5.5″

Features: Fully adjustable straps (though the stitching on the straps makes it almost impossible to move the slider),  ability to add padded inserts into each cup to correct asymmetry, lightly padded plunge shape, cute little buttons on the gore and straps, 3 sets of 3 hooks and eyes, and matching band color.

Fit: The band of the Karmelki stretches a whole half inch less than the Stalowka, so understandbly, I need two extra rows of hooks with the extender to wear the Karmelki. Not an issue for me. However, in the Karmelki, I would definitely recommend sizing up in band. Also, the cup is almost a half inch smaller in depth than the Stalowka. This isn’t so noticeable in the front, but the small amount of overflow I somewhat experience under the arms is a little more noticeable because of the lack of depth in the bra. However, I still wear this because it looks hella sexy under the right tops, but it’s definitely not one that I wear every day. The jiggle is definitely noticeable under t-shirts. I would suggest sizing up in band and cup if you decide to try the PL Karmelki. 

Support and Shape: Um….It’s a Ewa Michalak bra. I feel like that’s pretty self explanatory. The lift is fantastic, the shape is divine, and my boobs are under my chin. They give that sexy orb look that I’ve always wanted.

Other thoughts: I know this is *too small*, but like Georgina mentions, I love the way it makes my boobs look, so I’ll continue to break the rules, though definitely NOT every day – that’s for sure. I’ve felt a little bullied about what kind of size I should order in EM bras….and I think it’s important for women to remember to wear what is comfortable and what they feel looks good (within reason). Is this the best size for me? Probably not. But do I love the way it looks and feels? Yes. Am I going to wear it everyday? No, because it’s not practical.

In the end, YOU are the one that has to wear the bra…..so if you’re happy, and you’ve got a bra in a size that is fairly good or just close enough and wear it for special occasions or when you want to feel sexy, then do it.

**Also, I will note that when I received this bra, the seaming on the front left of the cup was coming undone and was quite loose. I have not contacted EM because it’s not a huge issue, and if it gets worse, I can fix it myself.**

Overall Grade: B+….I was so surprised by the differences in fit

Plus Size Bra Review: Elomi Energise Sports Bra

I’ve been putting off this review for about a month and a half, trying to give the Elomi ‘Energise’ sports bra a good run so that I could really give you all the best review I possibly can. I was so graciously gifted this bra for review by Eveden. This in no way influences my review of this bra.

 I originally received this bra in a 38J, but had some problems with it. Alexis from Eveden very kindly offered to have a sample size 38JJ made for me to see how that worked. The pictures I am going to post are of the 38J (as the photos of the 38JJ aren’t really that different).

 The Elomi ‘Energise’ Sports bra is available in sizes 34 GG-J, 36 DD-J, 38 D-J, 40 D-HH, 42 D-H, 44 D-GG, and 46 D-DD in colors white, black, and beige. Cost is about $65-75 depending on retailer. 

Click here for photos of the Elomi Energise.

 As you can see in the photos, I did have some side overspill, which is why Eveden offered to have the sample 38JJ made for me. I will be assessing the fit and function of both the 38J and the 38JJ and discuss my thoughts on sizing for this specific bra.

Features: Underwired, non-compression sport bra (encapsulation style), minimal stretch straps, higher height cup to encase all of breast tissue and minimize bounce, non-stretch cup fabrics, 3 hook and eyes in the 38J, 4 hook and eyes in the 38JJ, higher wings on the sides for control and support.

Fit: The 38J was not big enough in the cups for me. Oddly enough, the band on the 38J felt looser than the band on the 38JJ which was quite snug at first wear but has relaxed after 5-6 wears and a couple washes. While the cups on the 38J were too small, the cups on the 38JJ are a little bit too big. While I can’t show you this because I haven’t posted pictures of the 38JJ, the wires on the 38JJ come back quite far on the side, and there is a little bit of space in the cups. A while ago (probably about 6 months), I had tried the Energise on at a Nordstrom’s just to see what it was like, but I couldn’t get the fit quite right then, either.

 Support and Shape: This section of the review is a little bit different because of the purpose of the bra. Obviously, the shape is pointy – however, where this would normally bother me in an every day kind of bra, this does not bother me for a sports bra. In general, I would say that this bra makes my boobs look smaller, especially under clothing. The support is quite nice, and I will discuss in more depth in the next section (function) about the realistic uses of this bra.

  Function: For me to describe the function of the bra, I want to share with you the types of exercises that I tried with this bra on….here’s what I’ve done in it and whether I think it was a good experience…

• Running - Yes, the bra obviously controls bounce more than not wearing a bra would (or wearing a cheap-o sports bra over a regular bra). Yes, I have J cup breasts so I can’t really expect there to be no movement at all. However, after about a mile of running, I did start to feel that all too well known pain in the chest that comes from the bouncing of my large breasts. While I don’t think it’s impossible to use this bra for running, I must admit that I have had better luck wearing a compression style sports bra over the Energise.
• Personal Training – From jumping jacks to push-ups, the bra held up quite well. I’ve never been a huge fan of jumping jacks, but for short bursts of this up and down movement, the Energise is a welcome companion.
• Weight Training – When you’re lifting weights, you’re not moving your body as much as you would in running, so I think that the Energise is great for this kind of activity.
• Cycling/Biking – Again, not moving the upper body very much (if at all), so the Energise is perfect for this as well.

I have seen the Energise marketed as a medium impact control sports bra and I would have to agree with this. I would not really recommend the Energise for high impact sports for long periods of time – though you may have success in short bursts of high impact activity.

  Other thoughts: Because the wires in the 38JJ are more expansive than the 38J, I’ve found that the wires kind of bend away from my body and are quite pokey. Wearing the compression sports bra over the 38JJ keeps the wires from rubbing me in a bad way. I did not have this problem in the 38J – so if you have the right size, it should not be an issue. The four hooks and eyes on the 38JJ was interesting and a welcome change from the standard 3 hooks and eyes on UK brands. When I switched from wearing bras from LB to wearing UK brand bras, I desperately missed that extra hook and eye. I like the stability of the band of the Energise in the 38JJ.

 I think that, overall, this sports bra could be made better by combining the already present encapsulation style support with compression materials to hold tissue more firmly to the body. The size range of the Energise is really quite amazing, and this means that a lot of women have the chance to have a well fitting sports bra that provides good support during workouts.

 The control in the 38JJ vs. the 38J leads me to believe that Elomi could feasibly make and sell the Energise in a 38JJ and 40J to widen their market as the functionality of each size was quite similar. It will be interesting to see if they can expand the size range a little bit more, especially because Freya Active is going to start including K cups in their sports bras.

  Overall Grade: A when used for its intended purpose

Curvy Kate Swimwear Designer Top 30

Hello all!!

I’m here begging for votes; A while back, Curvy Kate posted an app on their page where you could design your own swimwear. Well, the Top 30 have been chosen! The winner with the most votes will receive the entire SS’13 Curvy Kate Swimwear Collection…I have always wanted to wear a bikini and didn’t think it would be possible until I found Curvy Kate. I have yet to try their swimwear, but I only hear good things about it and oh my goodness….check out the  SS’13 collection… 

And….yours truly is in the Top 30!    **Erica from Sophisticated Pair is also in the Top 30

So please, click here: Curvy Kate Swimwear Top 30 and please vote for me, Nicole  It’s the purple, pink and blue halter with banded bottoms

Guest Post: Review of the Curvy Kate Princess

**Today's guest post comes from a wonderful reader of mine and - at least that I know of - Fuller Figure Fuller Bust. Kristi had asked me for help with bras on my FB page, and when she told me that she ordered the Curvy Kate Princess, I asked her to do a review as this is not a bra that I myself have tried. Read on for her experience with the CK Princess **

Recently I got into contact with Fussy Busty to ask her about some bras styles that work for her because she and I share a common problem?  (not exactly the right word)--how about common figure feature which is that we are both short-waisted while still being busty.  What I said to dear Fussy was that I was having a hard time finding bras that  fit in the cup without digging into my armpits.  She recommended, among a few brands, trying some of the balconette styles  because the sides don't come up quite so high and thus might alleviate the problem I was having.  After doing a little online shopping I chose the Emily from Curvy Kate as well as the Princess.  I'll be reviewing (for the first time ever!) the Princess from Curvy Kate.  Fussy asked me if I would review it because she had heard mixed reviews of the bra.  I was happy but nervous to oblige.  I know how much online reviews from real wearers mean to me when I'm trying to decide on something so personal as a bra.  Fit is everything because let's face it, even the prettiest bra will get shoved to the back of the drawer if it's not comfortable and when I can't go to a store to try it on I have to rely on a few factors and the biggest one is what other women have to honestly say.  So let's get to it!

I ordered from Brastop.com and considering that the package was arriving from across the pond, it made it to my door quickly.  I took it as a good sign.  I opened the package to two really gorgeous bras.  I measured out at a 40FF and believe me, I NEVER thought I would ever find pretty bras in my size so having these 2 in my hands seemed almost unbelievable.  I particularly LOVE the polka dots on the Princess.

I couldn't wait to try them on so I snipped the tag from the Princess and got down to business.  The band was snug but not too snug on the first set of hooks.  I adjusted the straps so that they would be as short as I could get them.  This proved to be much more uncomfortable than I thought it would be because it caused the sides to dig into my armpits again.  I thought "oh no!  really?  all that money for these 2 bras and now I can't wear them either?"  but I calmed down and decided that perhaps a little adjustment was in order.  Upon lengthening the straps I felt much better.

  

I do like this bra.  It is gorgeous but I don't love it.  Here are my down sides...  1. I should have ordered down a size in the cup because I think it runs big even though I ordered the size I measured out as.  To prevent gaping across the top I have to push the straps to the edges of my shoulders and that's not always comfortable.  I have some tops that this is necessary for though anyway but I do wish I had known just how big these cups would run.  2. The material, even after a washing, is scratchy and the lace across the top of the cups is stiff but it's really the little bows that oddly enough, drive me so crazy.  I actually get red marks from the stitch on the back of the strap where that bow is sewn to and given that there is zero reason for it to be there other than that it looks pretty I wish they hadn't added it.  Bottom line is that it's the kind of bra that I can't wait to take off.  I was going to wear it for a long trip last weekend that included a car ride and party and I when push came to shove, I just could not do it.  In terms of construction it's a 3 part cup, features 3 rows of 3 hooks and eyes and the straps are fairly wide although not completely elastic.  The center gore comes up pretty high so this isn't a style for low cuts.  The wire on the side does reach my armpit but not as high as some so it's not poking me uncomfortably.  For the first time EVER the center gore lays flat against my breast bone like it is supposed to and that alone is something I truly love because I was starting to wonder if that was ever actually going to happen.

Bottom line?  I think I prefer the comfort of a lightly padded cup and I probably will not buy this style again.  Overall grade?  A for BEAUTY!  C for comfort and fit.

**I've read more than one review that has made mention of the Princess running small in the cup versus the gaping that we see here in Kristi's pictures. Other than the slight gaping, the fit on the Princess seems nice, the shape looks good....and as for the pesky bows... I would simply take a seam ripper to the puppies and pop them off.  Have you tried the Princess? What did you think of it?**

My Weekend...

My weekend has consisted of the following:

• A trip to the casino and late night visit to Tee Jaye's country place restaurant. 
• Homework.
• Putting up our Christmas tree. (after taking down Halloween decorations).
• And starting to write the first half of my thesis/research proposal

Here, let me bore you with my introductory paragraph to my thesis :-)

 

                 The parent-child relationship is perhaps the most important, influential factor in a child’s development. Within the psychological profession, it is well known that parent behaviors and parenting style influence children’s social, emotional, and physical development. While much research has been done on the many facets of this influence, this study focuses on the parenting styles of older, career-focused parents. As our society continues to advance in many ways, the age at which adults choose to have children has changed, based on a variety of factors. To put it simply, more and more adults (and subsequently married couples) are waiting until they are older to have children. Where once people were starting their families during their 20’s, now the trend is for parents to wait until their mid 30’s to have their first child (Roberts, 1987). The following synthesis seeks to explore the pros and cons of adults waiting until they are older to have children. The importance of secure attachments, as well as the influences of parent age, education and career on child development are explored in order to build a base for the proposed study. 

Fussy Busty's Thursday Faves & Sales 11/1

....hi November....nice to meet you...



 

 

Boosaurus' post about the perks of buying online 

Brittany over at Thin and Curvy touches on the supposed rules that are in place for busty women

Bras I Hate posted a review of the Flirtelle "Lucy" - a bra I myself have been considering purchasing because it has been dirt cheap on BraStop.com, but hadn't read any reviews yet

--------------------------------------------------

Sales:

Take 30% off at SimplyBe with code 3649 (remember, bra sizes are listed in US sizing)

Free shipping, no minimum at BareNecessities 

12% off $50 with BB12OFF50, or 24% off $100 with BB24OFF100 at Break Out Bras

 

Hurricane Sandy Friendly: Easy Chili

I'm deviating from the norm a bit here, and bringing you my recipe for the easiest chili you will ever make. I wanted to share this because, while I'm not directly on the east coast, we have felt the effects of Sandy. It's oh, I don't know....37 degrees outside and snowing - and it's not even November yet. It was just 80 degrees last Tuesday. As they say "If you don't like the weather in Ohio, just wait til tomorrow. It will change." Also, I'm freezing. The puppy keeps telling me he needs to go outside, when really all he wants to do is play Pocahontas and feel the colors of the wind blowing through his floppy ears. Rawr. But I digress...

Here's my recipe for delicious and easy chili. I use ground turkey because we don't eat red meat at our house, but feel free to use ground beef (you could maybe try chicken or steak, too).

Easy Chili

Ingredients:

• 2, 28 oz cans of crushed tomatoes


• 2 cans of diced tomatoes (or about 3 cups fresh diced tomatoes)


• 1 can of red kidney beans drained, or 1 can chili beans - do not drain chili beans if you use them


• 1 can of black beans, drained


• 2 packets of chili seasoning (we use hot and spicy :-) )


• 1 lb 85/15 ground turkey, browned and drained


• 1 yellow onion, diced

Directions:

• Dump all ingredients into a crock pot (4 qt. and higher sizes) and mix well


• Let simmer on low all day if you like, or about 2 hours on high


• Eat with cheese, sour cream, or whatever plays your fiddle


• Serve with delicious corn bread

Makes about 16, 1-cup servings, at about 167 calories per serving, 22 carbs, 6 g fiber, 10 g protein, 5 g fat, and 239 mg of sodium

Here's a photo of my last batch, because I am lazy haha

Cat Calls - No, I don't have to be OK with it....

So with all of the body love posts, and the anti-breast bullying posts, I've had this kind of topic on my mind for a while. I experienced breast bullying a lot when I was growing up. Nothing entirely too hateful, but enough people made comments about the size for me to feel ashamed of the size of my breasts.

Fast forward to Halloween this year. For any of my Facebook fans, you've seen the pictures that I have posted from Saturday night when my husband and I dressed up and went out. I was a pirate wench, and he was my scurvy pirate dog :-D

Costume: "Vixen Pirate Wench" by Leg Avenue, size 3X-4X. Under garments include: Curvy Kate Emily bra, my own pantaloons, and SPANX tight-end high waisted opaque black tights (FTW love these tights).

As the night went on, and many drinks were had.....this is how I looked:

[caption id="attachment_458" align="aligncenter" width="225"] Beginning of the night; my bra is totally showing....[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_459" align="aligncenter" width="225"] OMG Boobs! I actually kind of love the volume in my breasts here[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_460" align="aligncenter" width="225"] And ended with me wearing my husband's pirate wig, a sloppy smile, and lots of boobs.[/caption]

There was quite a lot of feedback about a status I posted on my page, and there was a comment given that is one I have heard before: you have big boobs, you need to have confidence to go with it because people are going to say negative/positive things. That comment really bothered me, as it's not something that's new to my ears, and I think that it can really be viewed as hurtful.

I've thought about that comment, and thought about the reactions that I got from folks at the bar. Within 5 seconds of walking into the bar, a woman came up to me and said "OMG! Your boobs are huge! Can I motorboat you?" Me: "No, thanks...", Her: "Can my husband look at your boobs? He's totally a boobs guy!" Me: *walks away*

Ten minutes later, the owner of the bar comes over to talk to a friend of ours and says "Oh hi, boobs."

Admittedly, I "broke the seal" way too early into the evening, so I kept making multiple trips to the restroom (side note: wearing high-waisted tights with every intention of drinking = bad idea). At one point, I came out of the bathroom and passed two young guys. As I was walking away from them, they said to each other "OMG! Did you see her! Her tits are huge!". As my palm itched to turn around and slap them, I just kept walking and sat back down by my husband.

Let's not add in the fact that there was a guy standing maybe 5 feet away from our table that stared at my chest all night long, and when I got up to sing (clearly, the only way to celebrate Halloween is by going to Karaoke :-D ), he would grunt and make awkward noises towards me. Old Elvis also stared me down awkwardly...

[caption id="attachment_462" align="aligncenter" width="225"] He sang "Love Me Tender"[/caption]

I tried to let the comments just kind of slide off my skin. And I was cool with it. Obviously, I wore something revealing, and my boobs are not tiny (something another girl talked with me about in the bathroom - she sympathized, being a HH and all - commiseration was nice). However, what got under my skin was the notion that because I have big boobs, I have to be okay with it.

Why do I have to be okay with it? Why do I have to be okay with men/women degrading me into a sex object? Why do I have to be okay with disrespectful comments? As someone else said on my FB page, when you see someone in a dress that has small boobs, you don't go up to them and say "wow! your boobs are tiny! it's too bad they don't fill out that dress! you would look so much better with bigger boobs!".

So, if we don't say that to people who aren't as endowed, then why is it okay to make comments like this to women who ARE full busted? It's a double standard, and a wrong one at that.

Yes, it takes a lot of confidence to be comfortable with your body when you are full busted. But that confidence should not come at the price of having to listen to negative and snarky comments from other people. Confidence doesn't make it okay. For me, it comes down to respect. Respect for other people's bodies.

Now I know that I wasn't at the bar to make friends or necessarily share my personality, my thoughts, my ideals....but at the end of the day, I - like many other people - want to be seen for who I am on the inside, versus the large sweater puppies I have on my chest. I don't know that that's too much to ask.

No, I don't have to be okay with cat calls and remarks about my breast size. Kind of like sexual harassment is all about perspective - not intentions - to me, I felt as though I was being breast bullied. And that's not okay. 

***Have you ever had a similar experience based on something that you wore in public? How did it make you feel? What did you do about it? Let me know in the comments below***

Plus Size Bra Review: Elomi Betty

I promised this review to be posted on Saturday, and then I remembered that I don't really blog/facebook/twitter much on the weekends :-)

Anyways...



 

The Elomi Betty is available in sizes 34 GG-HH, 36-42 D-HH, 44 D-G, and 46 D-DD in the beautiful navy color (and soon in Black/White dot in December). Matching panties available in sizes M-4XL. I paid $68 for the bra, and $32 for the matching panties. I almost cried.

On my trip to size a friend at Nordstrom, I happened to see that they finally started carrying the Betty and matching shorts. I knew I shouldn't have tried it on....because as soon as I did, I had to buy it. I bought the Betty in a 40HH, and the matching shorts in a 2XL.

Pics:



 



 



 

Features: Fully adjustable straps, 3 hook and eyes, plunging center gore, 4 part cups including side sling to push tissue forward, embroidered rose detail, bows on straps and central gore, minimum stretch 1" straps, mesh wings, banded bottom.

Fit: A 40HH is typically the size that I can wear in a lot of Elomi bras. I need a 38J, but a lot of Elomi's styles do not come up to a J-cup (at least not most of the really cute bras). Anyways, I could use a smidge more space on the side of the cups, but overall, the fit is good. I've worn this a few times and even once for more than 5 hours. I do not feel as though I am going to fall out of the cups, as is what usually happens when I wear a plunge bra.

Support and Shape: The support in the Betty is fabulous!! The shape on the other hand.....a tad too point for my tastes. Admittedly, I would love a little more more "oomph".  I would love for my girls to be smushed together a bit more for a bit more of a dramatic cleavage line. See here how it holds up under a few of my low v-neck shirts/dresses:



[caption id="attachment_450" align="alignnone" width="300"]    t-shirt[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_451" align="alignnone" width="300"] wrap dress

Wrap dress[/caption]

 

As you can see, either my purple wrap dress is too low, or the Betty isn't a good option for that dress. You also get more of an understanding of how pointy the Betty is in the side view.

Other Thoughts: I was really surprised by how stiff the material of the Betty was when I first got it. It reminded me of industrial strength netting that you would use to sew strange foundation garments. The panties are made of a similar material, though not as stiff. With multiple washes, the panties have definitely softened up, but the bra is still stiff. The material does not bother my skin, but it feels weird to touch. I do love the novelty of the Betty plunge, but as you can see, it's not ideal for very low necklines, and gives quite a pointy shape. Other than that, the bra is quite comfortable, and you don't fall out of it. I would have loved more oomph in this bra.

The Panty Experience: I did buy the matching panties in a 2XL. There's no clear size conversion for Elomi's panties, but I would say that the 2XL is comparable to a US 18/20. They are definitely much shorter than I am used to wearing (I typically wear full briefs), which is kind of hard to get used to. Also, they are completely sheer - hence no pictures. My husband really appreciates this characteristic, but I was kind of "meh" about it. The material of the panties is kind of slippery; when I wore them with jeans, I felt like my jeans were about to slide off of my bottom because of the panties. (maybe I need smaller jeans...)

Overall Grade: B.....the shape and the oomph of this bra could be improved! 

Also, follow me on Pinterest! :-) 

 

 

Fussy Busty's Thursday Faves 10/25 ....A day late...

I was really busy yesterday, but there are still some great reads this week that I wanted to highlight :-)

 



 

 

We ARE Good Enough  - Oh how I LOVE this post by Erica at A Sophisticated Pair. It's a wonderful read and I don't want to give too much away so that you HAVE to go read it :-)

Breast Bullying  - Claire at The Butterfly Collection talks about what Breast Bullying is and how we can stop it. I grew up with big boobs and always took flack from my family, friends, and even the people that I dated it. It hurts and it needs to stop.

Also, if you didn't know, the girls over at Invest In Your Chest are celebrating their 2nd Blogiversary! Go check out their blog! They have tons of giveaways that you can enter to win :-) 22 days left to go!

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As part of Thursday Faves, I am going to start including any relevant sales that I see on bras. I get all these emails in my inbox that I usually ignore (I am on a bra buying hiatus until after all of my Christmas shopping is finished....I solemnly swear I am up to no good....)

Both BraStop and LoveBras are offering free shipping to UK address and half-off worldwide! Yay for only paying $6 instead of $12 to the US for shipping. Also, they have tons of bras that are up to 75% off on the site (including bikinis!). Good until midnight Sunday 10/28

Bras are BOG1 1/2 off at Lane Bryant's Cacique (for those of you under a UK 44FF)

If you see anything else, feel free to comment :-)

 

Upcoming Reviews:

Elomi 'Betty' plunge bra (40HH)
Panache 'Tango II' Balconnet bra (in a 38J this time)
Elomi 'Energise' Sports Bra (in the sample size 38JJ that Eveden sent me)

 

 

 

 

Where are you, Busty Ladies???

A topic that came up on Miss Underpinnings blog has really hit home for me....

Being a part of the bra blogging community is wonderful, but when you're not physically close to other bloggers, it's hard to stay connected. So many of the FABULOUS blogs I read are either based in the UK, or are located in states that are quite far away from Ohio. The most exciting thing that has happened to me was meeting Suzanne from Eveden (which was really quite exciting). I would love to meet other busty ladies in person!

Anyways, if you're from Ohio (or even close by PA, Indy, or maybe even Kentucky), shoot me a message! I would love to meet you and talk about boobs, bras, and a good fit :-)

 

Plus Size Bra Review: Elomi Sakura

The Elomi Sakura bra is actually a discontinued style, however, the new 'Libby' is built on the same frame. The Libby is available in sizes 36-42 E-JJ and 44 E-G in Raisin/Chocolate for AW '12. Matching panties are available in sizes M-4XL

I remember seeing the navy blue print of the Sakura a while ago on HerRoom's website and didn't buy it. However, a couple weeks ago I happened to find the Sakura in Blossom on eBay in a 40J for only $27.50 (in my mind, quite the deal!). Yes I need 38's, but I really wanted this bra and figured I could take in the band if need be.

Pictures:

[caption id="attachment_430" align="aligncenter" width="560"] Sakura, 40 J[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_431" align="aligncenter" width="560"] Sakura, 40 J[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_432" align="aligncenter" width="560"] Sakura, 40J[/caption]

Features: Fully adjustable, minimal stretch straps, banded bottom, higher central gore - though not as high as the Caitlyn, 3 hooks and eyes, 4 part full coverage cup, bows on straps and center gore, and mesh wings.

Fit: In the 40J, there was a little bit of space in the cups as you can see. Also, I think in general, I'm struggling with how wide the wires are. I know that in Elomi bras, in a 40HH, I still get the same side coverage I need without the really wide wires (you can see in the Sakura that the wires are almost to my back). The wideness of the wires isn't uncomfortable, but it looks silly and I worry that it won't help in the retraining of my migrated tissue. The central gore sits flush against my chest BUT I have found that because of the height of the wires and the non-stretch materials of the cup, the bra tends to shift throughout the day, pushing the central gore away from my chest and giving me a bit of double boob on my bigger side. The band was surprisingly firm in the 40 when I first wore it, but it only took a day of wear for it to relax.

The band is not too tight, but no surprise to me, the bottom of it tends to flip up. The banded part of the bra flipped when I had only had the bra on for a couple minutes! I know that the Libby was often suggested to me when I first started buying bras in my more accurate size, and when I expressed concerns about the banded bottom, I was told not to worry. I think the reality is that I am really quite short waisted, so even the slightest bit of extra material around the wires is uncomfortable for me. Instead of me constantly flipping the band back down, I just let it flip and then go about my day as it is more comfortable without the band pressing on my tummy anyways.

Support and Shape: I very much prefer the shape of the Sakura than my other Elomi bras such as the Briony and the Abi; I feel as though I get much better lift in this bra and the shape is less wide. It might have something to do with the better anchorage of the banded bottom, but I'm no bra constructionist.

Other Thoughts: This bra is soooo pretty. It makes me happy to wear it. Probably not the sexiest thing, but I love all of the sweet touches of femininity on this bra. I wore this bra, and then wore my new Betty (review to come after a few more wears), which has led me to truly appreciate plunge bras as I love the lower central gores.

I would definitely recommend the Libby to anyone who is looking for a full coverage bra that provides great support and shape, without being as overwhelming (and work horse-like) as the Caitlyn.

Grade: A

Ambition is Bigger Than Time....

More and more, I keep thinking this is what I want to do. I want to own a lingerie boutique. I want to fit women and change their lives!

I also want to own a bakery. And a restaurant. And a craft store.

I have the tendency to start many, many projects and then have myself spread thin. Like right now? I work full time, I'm finishing up my master's, we got another dog in August (yikes, potty and puppy training), I have a very successful Etsy wedding favors store, we're working on starting a handmade soap business, and I have all those buckeyes to drill holes into and make into necklaces and wreaths, etc. We're also listing our condo for sale in the Spring to move closer to my family (2 hours away). Oh, did I mention that I'm an avid crocheter? I'm actively looking for a teaching job that I can start up after graduation, too. Yesterday, my husband and I started working on our massive combined family trees (with my Dad's side of the family's lineage dating all the way back to 1700's Germany...).....The # of pots we have our hands in right now is insane.

But, as I was sitting and talking to my uncle's sister on Saturday, telling her about bras and fit and the brands I love for a half hour - poor girl, I chat her ear off - I kept thinking "This is what I want to do!". But I've thought that about so many of my other projects. And yes, somehow, the schedule always works out, and I am able to get everything done. But how would I start a lingerie boutique?

I wish I was the kind of person that could choose one thing to be passionate about and devote all of my time towards that one thing. There are pros and cons to being the way I am (see: unfocused), and sometimes I only see the pros and others just the cons. Admittedly, I'm not sure where I'm going with this. Just kind of stream of consciousness.

In other news, I'm hosting my first bra fit workshop in a couple weeks! I am aching to share what I have learned and what I know with the women in my life, so I'm inviting a group of ladies over to my house to talk about bras, how they should fit, and how they can help their friends and family, too. Obviously, I have nothing to sell except for the big message: every woman should know how a bra is supposed to fit her, that way she can make an informed decision when she is out shopping, or when she is fit by someone in a store (i.e. Victoria's Secret, Lane Bryant, etc...).

I guess in a way, this is my contribution to the people in my life. I can't actually start a lingerie boutique right now, but at least I can help to educate other women :-)

And now, I have probably spent enough time distracting myself from my thesis...

Happy Monday!

 

Fussy Busty's Thursday Faves 10/18

Is it really Thursday again, already???



 

Linda's Response to OUR responses about her use of the term Vanity Sizing

And, of course, the lovely Claire's response back 

Love this tongue in cheek guide to 8 last minute costume ideas over at The Lingerie Addict

The Kiss Me Deadly 'Elle' Robe....WANT....

Plus Size Bra Review: Panache 'Sienna'

I've been lusting after the Panache Sienna bra since the first time that I laid eyes on it. I mean, c'mon....It's gorgeous....

The Panache Sienna is available in sizes 30-38 D-K in Black/Lagoon for Fall (and some purple still hanging out around there). I got this for about $34.00 on FigLeaves.com. Matching short/thong available in sizes XS-XXXL. A UK size 20 = US 16.

As soon as I saw that I could get this for - what I call - a decent price, I set out to order it. There's really *not* a lot of reviews of the Sienna in the blogosphere, so I wasn't quite sure about sizing. I'm in between a J/JJ in my 40's of my Panache bras, so the first time I ordered the Sienna, I ordered it in a 38K (since I am sizing down in band). Here's how that turned out:

[caption id="attachment_402" align="aligncenter" width="300"] 38K[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_403" align="aligncenter" width="279"] 38K[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_404" align="aligncenter" width="300"] 38K[/caption]

If you can see in the second photo, the wires come up unbearably high on the sides. I called FigLeaves to see if they could tell me if this was something that was due to the wire shape of the Sienna, or if I should try the next cup size down. We ended up deciding that I would return the 38K for the 38JJ. I fell in love with the bra, and it gives a lovely shape. The 38K was a pretty good fit, overall, but I was hopeful about the 38JJ. I also ordered the matching briefs in a UK 20.

So, here's the 38JJ:

[caption id="attachment_406" align="aligncenter" width="560"] 38JJ[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_407" align="aligncenter" width="560"] 38JJ[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_408" align="aligncenter" width="300"] 38JJ[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_409" align="aligncenter" width="300"] 38JJ[/caption]

What you can see in the photos is that, in all reality, sizing down in the cup didn't change anything about the wire height on the side - however, it did put the wire placement forward about a half an inch on my side, under the arm.

Features: half adjustable, semi-padded straps, 3 hooks and eyes in JJ and K cups, 3 part balcony cup, fully lined cups, non-stretch upper lace cup, pretty bow on central gore, stretch lace mesh wings, higher wing height.



 

Fit: I'll be assessing the fit in the 38JJ. The cups fit perfectly; no gaping, no double boob, the central gore lies flat, and I feel as though all of my tissue - even on the sides - is able to be pulled into the cups. I think it's important to keep in mind that the lace upper part of the cup is not stretch. Therefore, I think if you have any more than maybe a half cup size differences in your breasts, this might not work for you. The 38 band is everything I hoped it would be! Snug and comfortable, and keeps the wires of the bra firmly against my body which prevents the sliding and rashes associated with a band that is too big. If you can see, I fit into the bottom of the cups of the 38JJ better than the 38K.

Support and Shape: The shape that I get in the Sienna is what I consider ideal for a non-padded bra. My breasts are lifted and rounded by the expert seaming of the Sienna bra. The wires are not very flexible, which means that the support is constant and unwavering. The center gore is nice and low (a VERY welcome change in comparison to the Tango II wires), but it seems as though the Sienna overcompensates for a low central gore with very tall wires on the sides.

Other thoughts: I love this bra. The minute that I put it on, I feel sexy and confident. And then I relax my shoulders and I am stabbed by the underwires under my arms. It's possible that the wires will relax and I will get used to them being higher....honestly, the bra is too pretty to return and the fit really *is* great other than the unfortunate wire height. The materials are great for this bra! And the color is to die for.

The Panty Experience: I ordered the matching panties in a UK 20 (my first ever matching set!!), and was so sad to see that they did not fit. Realistically, I should not have been surprised. A UK 20 = US 16; I typically wear an 18/20 in cotton panties. The panties came up pretty low on me, and I had a bit of a muffin and rather indecent exposure in the front. However, I will say that the panties are as equally gorgeous as the bra is. The panties are lined in the front, but the back is sheer lace mesh. I'm keeping these as well, as I continue to lose weight and these panties are going to be so awesome when they fit.

Overall Grade: B- .....the bra is sexy, but is wire stabbing worth it?