I thought therefore of Squeem as a Lingerie brand that added something I lacked. Recently, the nice people at Squeem helped me think of them as a Lingerie brand that could subtract something I had too much of.

You see I have naturally added some shape in the intervening years, and all of it has wound up in the wrong place. At my waist. I think the fatty cells are using MapQuest and just getting the directions wrong. I am fighting back, being a little more conscious about diet and actively thinking about being more active. I am dedicated to tightening things back up naturally, but in the meantime I will quietly be thankful for a little help from my friends, including friends at Squeem.

Hailing from Brazil, and in the shapewear business for more than 40 years now, Squeem pioneered the Faja style of shape shifting foundation styling that is a common feature of the Latin American fashion-scape. Faja referred originally to a centuries old fashion look, a colorful, cinched belt worn about waists to add a little swash to buckles, and a little sash to the sashay. I think the boys from Duran Duran even wore them in completely cheezie 80’s videos. But I digress.

And so did Squeem! Garments that were in past years strict and argumentative about shoving one’s shape about with uncomfy rubber have been updated and made persuasive about shifting the body more gently and comfortably into svelte new silhouettes. Squeem shapers are all-cotton fabric bases that are topped with an elastic, rubberized component which breath, give and still provide shocking changes in dimension.

Now darlings, about my dimensions. I wear a 4 skirt. My Squeem cinchers knocked an amazing 4 inches from my waist. Some of it went up, some down, some just disappeared, but all of it wound up in a better place. It is fair to say that a correctly fitted Squeem cincher will reduce the muffin top by 10-15%. Your results may vary.

Just a little more math here now darlings. With help from Squeem, I am able to bring roughly $700 worth of dresses and skirts back into service. Dresses and skirts I still love, that look great and will still in five years. Garments that help me feel beautiful. We all have pieces that just don’t fall so well as they once did. A small investment that gets them out of the closet or saves them from the consignment shop is a great investment.

Choices abound. The Miracle Vest and the Perfect Waist cinchers are front-fastening, corset-style foundation pieces. The Miracle Vest does all the tummy-tightening, waist-pinching work that the Perfect Waist does, and adds a little oomph to the bust by encouraging your bra to bring the girls together, up and out for a little fresh air. The Fashion Cincher, pretty in pink and lavish in lace adds a little visual interest to the new shape.

There are a few claims that are made about this style of garment that I cannot make, largely because I am not a physician. A Faja style garment may contribute to weight loss or help relieve back pain. My weigh scale is broken (must be, really, I simply cannot trust the thing) and I do not have any back issues. I will therefore not offer an opinion on these matters. I can say that anything that helps us sit more upright and throw our shoulders back when walking is a good thing, and Squeem certainly bring those good outcomes about. It is lovely to feel more conscious about one’s movement, posture and stature. These things too help us feel beautiful, and feeling that way makes everything easier, yes?

I think as well that Squeem is a great step to take before making an investment in grown up corsetry. Unlike low cost, flimsy/sexy boudoir corsets, your Squeem will help you determine whether you will be happy with your venture into this special, seductive fashion category. Squeem is designed to be worn all day. Try it. If you are refreshed, naturally and lovingly surprised at your shape 8 or 10 hours into a Squeem day, you are a perfect candidate for serious corsetry. Moreover, your Squeem will remain a really useful training garment as you break in that new beauty from What Katie Did or Agent Provocateur.

Here are a few Petra tips on wearing Squeem. Powder liberally before dressing. Have your bra on first. Fasten from the bottom up. And if you plan on wearing a dress or top that is super-clingy, wear a smoothing slip over your Squeem to gloss over the faint outlines of supporting stays and fastening hardware. This last tip was what cinched Squeem (dreadful pun yes, forgive me please…) for me. I have an investment dress from Wolford, a genuine stunner guaranteed to attract looks of lust and thinly veiled envy on a perfect figure. On a less than perfect figure (hello!) this dress would be more likely to attract tut-tuts and “who-is-she-fooling” commentary.

Which is not the sort of commentary I want to start up at my springtime 30-something High School Reunion. Lust and envy is really all I ask. Why not look that way, even if only for the odd special night. Perhaps you have a special night in your future. A family get together, cocktails with old coworkers, a Las Vegas spree, maybe even a court proceeding with a soon to be regretful ex. Perfect environments to bring a both a little less and a little more of the beautiful you to.

Use the handy store finder on the Squeem web site to find a familiar online venue, or better yet a local boutique you can visit to get your hands on and the rest of you into a truly effective, well-made shape shifter from my new, old friends at Squeem.

We decided to go with this format for 2 equally important reasons. We want to offer all our readers the opportunity to shop at lingerie boutiques near them. Even if most prestigious online lingerie boutiques have worldwide shipment options, shops offer most of the time free delivery only in the country were their headquarters are located. The second reason is that we find it more useful to have all the lingerie sales in one place throughout the month, rather than posting 4 posts a month as we did before.

If there are any updates you want us to make to this format, or you want to recommend a lingerie sales, we welcome your comments anytime.

1. Myla London

Deal: Up to 70% OFF – Outlet Lingerie Sales

Brands: Myla London

Where they ship: UK, US

Link: Myla.com

End Date: n/a

2. Myriam Girard

Deal: 50% OFF

Brands: Myriam Girard (Designer Lingerie)

Where they ship: UK, US (Free Worldwide Delivery)

Link: MyriamGirard.Com

End Date: 03/01/2012

3. Figleaves UK

Deal: 20% OFF – For EVERYTHING – with Code TWENTY

Where they ship: UK, US

Link: Figleaves.com/uk/

End Date: 03/01/2012

4. La Perla UK

Deal: Up to 75% OFF for Selected Items

Brands:  La Perla

Where they ship: UK, US

Link: La Perla

End Date: 02/29/12

5. Ann Summers

Deal: Up to 75% OFF – Clearance Sale

Brands:  Ann Summers, Knickerbox

Where they ship: UK

Link:  AnnSummers.com

End Date:2/29/2012

6. Ayten Gasson

Deal: Clearance Sales

Brands:  Ayten Gasson (designer lingerie)

Where they ship: UK, US (Worldwide)

Link: AytenGasson.com

End Date:n/a

7. Debenhams

Deal: Up to 70% OFF, Clearance Sale

Where they ship: UK

Link:  Debenhams.com

End Date:n/a

8. My Tights

Deal: Hosiery Sales (up to 75% OFF)

Brands:  Wolford, Jonathan Aston, Bebaroque, Transparenze, Falke

Where they ship: UK, US

Link:  MyTights.com

End Date:n/a

9. Tights Please

Deal: Hosiery Sales (Up to 75% off)

Brands:  Charnos, Falke, Jonathan Aston, Henry Holland, Levante, Wolford

Where they ship: UK, US

Link:  Tightsplease

End Date:n/a

10. Triumph

Deal: Up to 50% OFF, For Selected Items

Brands: Triumph, Valisere, Sloggi, HOM

Where they ship: UK

Link: Triumph Online Shop

End Date:n/a

Happy Shopping!

So with that said, dear friends, I do not live with the expectation of coming across a name that I want to try that I do not have a taste of already.

Enter Shapings and Introducing Platino. Much more to say on Shapings in a few paragraphs. Let’s start with Platino. A quick check with my handy Spanish-English dictionary tells me that Platino translates to Platinum. Good start. Platinum is smooth, lustrous and durable. Platinum is rare too, and never fails to engender a little healthy envy amongst those looking and touching but not quite owning the stuff. Fine recipe elements for great hosiery. Platino has been working on the recipe since 1921, and so should by now have the recipe right.

And now on to the packaging. Pictured is the usual perfectly shaped and certainly younger than I model’s torso, shapely, free of blemish and clad in nothing but the 15 denier sheers, but with a difference: absolutely no waistband. No darkening, no stitching, no elastic, no evident binding at tight top. Cleancut® says the package, and clean cut is the look. Tights with a difference.

Upon opening the package even the most seasoned hosiery writer/fiend is surprised by just how much of the weight of a typical pair of tights is in the waistband. The Platino’s are featherweight, and pour into one’s hand with gossamer, free, silky abandon. Carefully, thumbs down to sandal foot toe of the fully boarded leg, up and easily over calves, knees, thighs and the rest of me, the most slidingest, glidingest, begging-to-be-worn sheers I have ever felt. I am not given easily to superlatives, but honestly, the Platino’s wowed me.

The feel and finish are fabulous. Platinum, yes, pearl even, smooth, polished and absolutely free of friction. And comfortable, yes comfortable. As I write this post, a full 10 hours into my test drive, my legs are cool as can be. I would love to tell you that I know how and why things are this way, but the hard truth eludes me.

Some of the Platino lines employ  yarn treatment called Hydrofil®, a nylon variant with extra-ordinary moisture wicking properties which should confer this feeling, but the Clean Cut 15′s do not. With typical tights, 32% Elastine or Lycra content would be a sauna on the leg and especially through the seat. Here the super-high super-stretchy Elastine merely confers a perfectly sound, resilient fit through a long day. The lycra-like content simply does not get a chance to heat up. Why? At the end of the day, or at many moment during the day, who cares? They work.

And now, dear patient and hopefully breathless friends, to the appearance. The Platino’s have real visual impact. The product description indicates that your legs will look as though dipped in oil. Perhaps this is an overstatement, but not by much. Lights bounces, contours shimmer, winking splendor from south of one’s hem. These are seen as well as felt. Captivating, moving and mesmeric, most effective if the effect you want is to draw a little extra attention. In a world where big dots, bold geometrics and lace are all the thing, a beautiful glossy sheer still stands out nicely.

A final word now on the waistband. Or lack of waistband. Supremely comfortable, and prone only to barely noticeable rolling. Pair them with your sleekest, seamless knickers. I recommend Commando or TC Intimates. And then pull on your most unforgiving skirt without a care in the world. I don’t quite understand how Platino does it, but having been raised Catholic, I am well accustomed to leaving the odd mystery alone. Especially when it works.

Let me finish today with words about Shapings. The people at Shapings live and breath hosiery. They occupy the rare air between dedication and obsession. They focus on European vendors who run tidy, fashionable businesses but simply do not have the wherewithal (or appetite) to take on the world and acquire the cache of marquee brands like Wolford or Falke. Shapings has sought out and found dozens of determined survivors like Platino who apply craft and care in the design and manufacture of terrific, innovative, fierce leg fashion. And then they went shopping with you and I in mind.

Shapings delivers quality at super prices too. My Platino’s retail for $14.00, and yet still wind up in a class of their own. Cecilia de Rafael’s that I have reviewed here glowingly are priced lower at Shaping’s than I have seen anywhere else. And without fail, the product assortment within brands I love, including Cette, Pierre Mantoux, and Trasparenze run almost ridiculously deep. Which only adds to my issues with impulse control, but more importantly makes for some great shopping value.

If you are looking for a trustworthy, hardworking vendor to help you round out your hosiery wardrobe, I encourage a visit. And if you are looking for an entirely new, fresh, compelling look for your legs, look no further than Platino.

Now, where was I? Ah yes, about 20 miles north of LAX, 7 or so miles northwest of Beverly Hills pleasantly along Laurel Canyon, on a charming, pedestrian-friendly patch of Ventura Blvd. A toss of the keys to the gallant and handsome young Valet, a short walk past a brace of upmarket boutiques, with a heave on the door and a lyrical clang of chimes one steps into the perfumed, sunlit air of La Boutique FFF. (Choir of Angels sound goes here…)

I have been a big fan of FFF for ages now. My feelings for founders Alison and Gail Rubke waver always between simmering envy and happy, bubbly affection. I have long felt a kinship for this lovely Mother/Daughter team. You see, when I was first introduced to Faire Frou Frou 3 ½ years ago, we were both dealing with a flooded premise. Between the renovations and all the lingerie, it was clear to me that we shared nightmares and dreams both.

One thing that must be said in favor of a short flood is that you do get to start from scratch. Perhaps even realize a vision. The shop today is an absolute vision, a fulcrum of femininity, a realm of relaxation, a lap of pretty luxury. Everything I expected really. So lovely to have very high expectations met and exceeded even. So rare is that the case.

Muted tones, daylight dappled and softly lit, dashes of contemporary and classic, absolutely unique and yet the very prototype of what you would want your dream shop to look and feel like. I think I want to have some of my ashes scattered in one of FFF’s darling fitting rooms. (Alison … I think there is a screenplay in here somewhere… surely you know someone in The Industry … you will get Producer credit and back end points on overseas distribution… OK?.. let me know…)

Upon entry, hellos, hugs and heartfelt nice-to-finally-meet you’s. Alison is just lovely, and stands out for attention even surrounded by so many gorgeous distractions. Easy, disarming and fun to be with. She combines an open, warm effervescence with a clearly cool intelligence about people, business and life that are hallmarks of success in all ventures. Thank goodness her venture is Lingerie.

And such Lingerie. From Andres Sarda to Zinke and practically everything worth mentioning in between. Amazing what can be comfortably merchandized in a cozy, intimate space. Amazing as well just how much having a robust on-line business allows a smart, independent, single-location merchant to stock a much broader line of inventory than would ever be imaginable pre-internet.

I think the benefits of the FFF business approach run the other way too. Online-only lingerie vendors get some customer feedback (returns, reviews, and etc.) but online feedback is kind of monochrome. Alison, on the other hand, gets all sorts of up-close, real-time consumer feedback. For example, she saw my eyes light up at the mere mention of Mimi Holiday, and could watch my face as I cautiously held and briefly imagined myself in the darling Lascivious Kitty cupless number (pictured with Alison above). Time with customers is invaluable. All the chit-chat on the shop floor and the instant verdicts rendered by real people in the fitting room must help you keep a firm hand on the business.

I suspect that this hands-on intimacy makes it possible for Alison and Gail to fall in love with and support young designers and brands that are just too small or unproven for big corporate retail types to make a risky bet on. And this is wonderful for all of us. Young designers bootstrapping their fragile business get precious income, premium shelf space and a proud endorsement from a leading retailer and taste-maker. Alison and Gail get a little differentiation from other vendors and reinforce the lovely exclusivity of FFF. And we consumers just go blind with choice. Goodness abounds.

As you would expect, Faire Frou Frou stocks a wonderful range of premium, niche and emerging European brands (all the usual lust-list suspects, Bordelle, Fleur of England, Maison Close, really too too many to fairly list here). And while FFF thinks globally, they happily shop locally.

Delighted to see home grown Guilty Pleasures faves like Between the Sheets and Itty Bitty Bra on the hangers and pretty table tops. Delighted to finally get my hands on pieces from Good Night Gilda too. The Romper (pictured with Guitar above) is clever, comfy and has come-hither written all over it. Romantic pieces with a vintage pin-up vibe built for the bustier woman. Her new SS ranges look gorgeous. Look up Good Night Gilda at the NYC Lingerie Designer Showcase later this month if you happen to be in the area.

So which blooms did I pick from the beautiful garden? I was super anxious to try pieces from Claudette (pix just above and below). Famous and fabulous friend Treacle picked Claudette as The Brand to watch for 2012. Always ahead of the curve, Alison is nicely stocked with Claudette and Treacle is correct: Claudette is irresistible. I came home with a gorgeous Sophia strapless bra/boy short set.

There are so many true notes sounded in Sophia. Touchable crêpe, prettily pleated at the cups and subtly color-blocked in mauve and tan. Lightweight and liquid on the skin, but seriously supported by very firm side stays at the wide bra wing and with a narrow but effective ribbon of silicon gripper at cup and band-bottom seams. Sophia’s removable straps (metal hooks and adjustment hardware) turn a specialty strapless number into a practical, durable everyday go-to bra. Pretty and eye-catching, clean and wearable under clingy things too. Priced nicely below the European premium lines, Claudette is a compelling story.

Hugs and so longs and off into the night, with the sexiest accessory in LA County, a Faire Frou Frou bag slung proudly on my shoulder, a great visit and so much better for me than that dinner I begged off on. I can’t wait to go back. Next time I will be sure to work up the nerve to try the Bordelle Angela Dress. And who knows what else?

If you have a favorite boutique (your own even) let me know. Always happy to skip a meal for a little visit you know :)

This format will, hopefully, help you browse through the most interesting lingerie sales easily.

If you have would like us to make an update to this format, or you have a favorite lingerie sale you want to recommend us, leave a comment.

1. Figleaves

Deal: Deal: 20% OFF – For EVERYTHING – with Code TWENTY

Where they ship: US

Link: Figleaves.com

End Date:3/01/2012

2. HerRoom

Deal: Up to 75% OFF, Clearance Sale

Where they ship: US

Link: HerRoom.com

End Date: n/a

3. Natori

Deal: Natori Lingerie Sales for Selected models (up to 50% off)

Brands:  Natori

Where they ship: US

Link: http://www.natori.com

End Date: N/A

4. Bare Necessities

Deal: Save $20 on $99 purchase during the Presidents’ Day Sale

Where they ship: US

Link: BareNecessities.com

End Date: 02/20/12

5. Swimsuits for All

Deal: 80% OFF Clearance Sale

Brands: Longitude, Beach Belle, Delta Burke, Beach Native, Penbrooke, Maxine of Hollywood.

Where they ship: US

Link: http://www.swimsuitsforall.com

End Date:2/29/2012

6. Linda The Bra Lady

Deal: Up to 90% OFF for selected bras styles

Brands:  Anita, Aubade, Chantelle, Bravado, Duet, Fantesie, Freya, Goddess and a few more.

Where they ship: US

Link: LindasOnline.Com

End Date: N/A

7. Freshpair

Deal: Up to 65% OFF (Spring Clearance Sale)

Brands:  Maidenform, OnGossamer, Glamorise, Barely There and so on.

Where they ship: US

Link: Freshpair.com

End Date: n/a

8. Wacoal and b’tempt.d by Wacoal

Deal: Up to 30% Off for Selected Items

Brands:  Wacoal, b’temp.d

Where they ship: US

Link: www.wacoal-america.com

End Date: n/a

9. One Hanes Place

Deal: Up to 75% OFF (Clearance Sale)

Brands:  Bali, Playtex, Champion and so on.

Where they ship: US

Link: OneHanesPlace.com

End Date: n/a

10. Hips and Curves Sale

Deal: Up to 50% OFF Clearance Sale

Brands: Hips and Curves

Where they ship: US

Link: HipsAndCurves.com

End Date: n/a

Happy Shopping!

The lucky number 18 is…Kate a.k.a. Gwenelle. Congratulations for winning a gorgeous shapewear piece signed TC Fine Intimates. We will send you an email to confirm the shipping details.

We must send a big thank you to all of you, for entering the contest and for sending us such beautiful comments. Stay connected to Guilty-Pleasures.org, as we will have more lingerie goodies and reviews to share with you soon.

—-
We are extremely happy to announce our first giveaway for 2012, featured with the help of the gorgeous people from TC Shapewear.

Either you need a little more slimming after the holidays, or you simply are a shapewear lover, this opportunity should not be missed.

We tested TC  with the closest attention, and our conclusions are certain. This is a shapewear brand that you should have in your lingerie closet.

What can you win if you join our giveaway? You can receive one TC® Shapewear item of your choice available from TCFineIntimates.com.

Are you ready to enter this contest? Here is how:

Like TCFineIntimates on Facebook

and

Follow TCFineIntimates on Twitter

As always, you can win up to 4 extra entries if you:

1. Read Petra’s review on TC Shapewear and leave a comment about which gorgeous TC piece you lust for. (1 entry)

2. Like Guilty Pleasures, Lingerie Blog on Facebook (you get 1 entry)

3. Subscribe to our feed by email (you get 1 entry)

4. Share this giveaway on Facebook (you get 1 entry)

The contest is open to US, until February 17. On February 18 we select the winner with random.org and we announce his or her name here.

Good luck to all!

Media Partners:

CashNet Sweepstakes

This giveaway is listed at All Things Bloggy.

Sweepstakes Universe!

Free Lotto Games and Sweepstakes

The Diet simply is not taking hold quickly enough though. So I am on a bit of a Shapewear Binge desperately hoping to avoid a Wardrobe Purge. I will likely be fine by springtime but in the meantime I will be pouring myself into a good range of slimming, problem solving, wardrobe enabling pieces and sharing my views and reviews with you here.

Bloomingdale’s recently announced it was closing a local store and discounting merchandise widely (Perimeter Mall if you live near Atlanta and wanted to leave a sad floral tribute at the door). Off I went, first stop, Intimates. To tell you truthfully I had the Spanx Open-Bust Full Slip in mind as the perfect piece to gobble up my Muffin Top. The sales assistant and myself rifled racks vainly for the right size, no luck at all. She suggested a brand I knew vaguely but had not worn before.

“Here, try the TC, this one will fit”. I did. It did.

TC, as it happens is a sister brand of better known shapesters Miraclesuit, Naomi and Nicole and Cupid Intimates. Cupid has been in the business forever now having started in seamless girdles in the days nylon-rationed 1940’s and winding up today more or less girdling the globe with shapely solutions for contemporary fashion needs.

TC stands either for Total Comfort, or Total Control and to my recent experience provides really good measures of both. I pulled up the TC Torsette Full Slip until the silicon gripper hem settled snuggly at mid-thigh. I paused for a moment, like a weight-lifter, before hoisting the tight midriff control zones over my hips. A quick breath catching moment before maneuvering the padded shoulder straps up and over, and finally smoothing the whole package out.

Smooth is the foremost feeling. Slim too. My newly sloppy waistline had been nipped in and evened out to a more youthful silhouette, bordering now on the desired hourglass. Belly flat and booty boosted too. Padded straps nestle comfortably over one’s own bra and have the effect of smoothing out clasp hardware and whatever back-bulge issues you might be managing. Additionally the slips upper contours have a push-up impact on the girls, helping provide a little extra drama and visual interest around plunging necklines.

The slips hem is subtly embroidered with a broad band of woven silicon thread that clings quite surely to tights and bare legs alike without the clammy, grippy feel of thick rubbery bands. Just as importantly, the TC approach does not leave a temporary tattoo of thigh high stripes. Like the rest of the torsette, all the pressure is quite evenly distributed, achieving a fine look under a clingy dress, while still allowing you to move, breath, slide out of the car and into a cozy booth without feeling unnaturally constricted or contorted.

My new TC does have a highish back, which sadly does rule out use with a couple of my favorite draping party frocks though. To keep these beauties in service I helped Bloomies thin their close-out inventory by picking up the TC “Even More Step-in Cincher” on the way to the cash desk.

Composed of the same Nylon/Spandex fabric, and reinforced with thin, flexible side stays, the cincher provides much of the same shape shifting while remaining discrete and invisible to all but the most critical eyes. Anyone who is looking that closely is either deeply interested in you or mad jealous about your looks. Either way, you win, and I wouldn’t put too much worry into these very slight imperfections in finish.

I dropped a quick note of thanks to the nice people at TC after my shopping run, and they very kindly responded with the gift of knickers. I am delighted with both the Edge Lace Trim Boy Short and High Cut panty. Comfy, smooth and surely held in place with the TC clean cut, breathing silicon trim at the leg openings, a great, no-VPL complement to whatever you are wearing over top of them. My boy shorts survived a recent LA to Atlanta flight without any turbulence or undue fidgeting in my seat. There was muffin top yes, but that was from the middle seat chap pouring unavoidably over my arm rest. Alas, so often we need all the comfort we can get.

I will go back to this brand again no doubt, and make a happy recommendation that you compare TC to whatever you have been underwearing in the way of shapewear. In addition to the Cupid Intimates online shop and Bloomingdale’s, you can find great ranges of TC Intimates at Nordstrom, Dillard’s and the always reliable Bare Necessities.

I will be back here with more reviews from this (increasingly) important intimate category in upcoming weeks. We would be delighted to know your do’s and don’ts, faves and fails, and for that matter, miracle diets too. Please drop a line with your shapely thoughts here.

14 February has been known as Valentine’s Day since 496 AD, when Pope Gelasius declared it the day of Saint Valentine. In 1969 this day was annulled from the General Roman Calendar by Pope Paul the VI.

In the Middle Ages, when the courtly love flourished, 14 February started to be known also as the romantic love day, when people celebrated the love and affection between two sweethearts. Since those time Valentine’s Day has been considered the day we honor love.

Valentine’s Day Lingerie

On Valentine’s Day it is a custom to compliment the loved one with greeting cards and gifts. These gifts should be intimate tokens of love that offer pleasure to both the giver and the receiver. There are many gifts that enter this category, including Lingerie.

You don’t have to read too many Valentine’s Lingerie Gift Guides to know what lingerie gift your partner would love to receive.  As my dear friend Petra wrote in a recent guest post, the answer is right in front of you: buy the lingerie that stays true to who you are and the rest will come naturally.

This is where we can help with some suggestions.

There are hundreds of Lingerie Designers and Brands that offer gorgeous Valentine’s Day lingerie for all styles, personalities and budgets. I hope you will enjoy the Guilty Pleasures 2012 Valentine’s Day Lingerie Picks.

Valentine’s Day Lingerie For the Cozy

For the woman who prefers her lingerie soft, comfortable and  soothing.

Cozy Lingerie selections for under $50 value from Figleaves, Hips and Curves and Panache:

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Cozy Lingerie selections for under $100 value from Claudette, Lola Haze, Eberjey and Curvy Kate:

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Cozy Lingerie selections for those with no budget limitation from Zinke, Fifi Chachnil, Natori and Beautiful Bottoms:

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Valentine’s Day Lingerie For the Romantic

For the woman who prefers her lingerie to express passion and sophistication, grace and elegance. 

Romantic Lingerie selections for under $50 value from b.tempt’d, Affinitas Intimates, Oh La La Cheri and Burdel:

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Romantic Lingerie selections for under $100 value from Blush Lingerie, Ayten Gasson, Cosabella and EA Lingerie:

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Romantic Lingerie selections for those with no budget limitation from Marika Vera, Between the Sheets, Fleur of England and Brulee:

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Valentine’s Day Lingerie For the Temptress

For the graceful women who prefer erotic lingerie when practicing the art of seduction. 

Temptress Lingerie selections for under $50 value from Toad Lillie, Maison Close and Coco de Mer.

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Temptress Lingerie selections for under $100 value from Nichole de Carle, Aubade, Agent Provocateur and Mise en Cage. 

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Temptress Lingerie selections for for those with no budget limitation from Agent Provocateur, Bordelle, Made by Niki and Atsuko Kudo.

*Click the thumbnails below to see images in full size and link to the shops that sale each lingerie piece selected. 

Happy Valentine’s Day Shopping!

If vintage Champagne is more your speed than vintage knickers, I am happy to recommend a completely current hosiery pairing for your Valentine’s Day look more fully in tune with your more contemporary vibe:

Stay-ups.

Stay-ups are fast as the pace of the life we lead, gliding on from toe-tip to thigh-top in a heartbeat. Stay-ups work with clingy, body-con fashions, clean as a whistle under tight knit dresses, unseen beneath the tightest bandage skirt, no belts peeking out from low slung waistlines. Stay-ups are convenient for calls of nature. Stay-ups don’t get involved in the whole garter straps outside-or-inside-the-panties debate. Stay-ups, stay up, standing tall on their own, as independent as you.

I swear, if Steve Jobs had gone into the hosiery business we’d all be wearing stay-ups except they would be called iStockings.

Stay-ups are here to stay. They pair the red-hot sex appeal of bygone times with more contemporary, liberated lusts for life. They go nicely with other healthy lusts too.

One of my favorite hosiery vendors, Philippe Matignon has an assortment of stay-ups that pair with Valentine’s Day as well as Champagne pairs with popcorn. I have notes on two models here.

If your approach to a night out is subtle, I recommend the Dentelle (pictured above), a 20 denier sheer, half-boarded, sandal-toed and simply, dressy black sheer. With a matte, satiny finish, this Lycra / Elastine blend has all the cool feel, comfort, and durability characteristics you would expect from a premium European brand. Four beautiful inches of  intricate macramé lace crown the stocking leg and keep them surely in pretty place.

The fit is superb with just elastic enough that they hug the leg without tugging or budging the scallop fringed eye-candy even a fraction. The full inch of silicon gripper in two strips distribute tension evenly. Unlike lesser stay-ups that I have lived to regret wearing, these embrace without pinching. More importantly, they go hours without any adjusting. My Dentelle’s were tested through a 12 hour day. They finished the day precisely where they started. No adjustments, and not a single moment of fear of a wardrobe malfunction.

If your approach is a little more provocative I suggest two things:

1. Choose the Melodie stay-up, and
2. Be sure that your date gets a good look at you from behind at some point in the evening. Perhaps as you walk to the ladies in between courses at dinner.

Melodie is a finer, dressier 15D sheer with a little more shimmer than the Dentelle. Melodie also possesses the hypnotic charm of a simple, sexy back seam. I have always been mad for back seams. You can go the whole evening forgetting what you are wearing, but no-one else in the room will.

Melodie is topped off with the same class of elastic lace top as the Dentelle, with one arresting difference. The stocking top is two-toned with the introduction of romantic, Valentine ready red.

Love, love, love the red, the possibilities are limitless. Introduce other red elements into your under dressing. Scarlett nails. Ruby lips. Accessorize with Louboutin’s. Decorate the bed with rose petals. Yes, the possibilities are limitless, but one thing is perfectly predictable: It will be a red hot Valentine’s Day.

Now, while your date is a reserving your dinner table, you should visit Philippe Matignon and choose your stay-ups for the evening. Take a look around at the ready-to-wear lines too, all sorts of sexy for the rest of your body. You will also find a fabulous assortment of PM hosiery at HerRoom, Peek Brooklyn and other select online venues and boutiques near you.

I am not kidding about Champagne and Popcorn either. They pair like a dream. Take my advice, skip desert this Valentine’s Day dinner, cab home, nuke a bag of popcorn, take the bubbly off ice, pop the cork, pour a flute and taste.

Then kiss.

You will want to thank me for this advice too, but don’t. There will be more urgent needs to be met.

There will be Stockings.

Think about the evening a moment. Dinner reservations, a different fragrance, a necklace not seen for long months wakened from a dark, plush, velvety bed. Valets hopping, doors held open and chairs slid gently beneath you at a candlelit table. Time does not stand still on Valentine’s Day. Time flies backwards at the speed of light to the day you met, last month, last year and further still.

However long ago that day was, Valentine’s Day takes us all back to a more romantic moment, a more romantic era. Valentine’s Day has an air of nostalgia to it. Valentine’s Day feels just a little vintage.

And there is no single garment that says romance, evokes nostalgia, and has vintage vibe quite like a pair of stockings is there?

I rest my case. There will be stockings. It is merely now a question of which ones.

We can quibble politely friends about whether they are traditional stockings fastened to a beguiling garter belt or silicon strip stay-ups. We will not, however quibble about tights. Tights get the night off on this big night. Are we agreed? I thought so.

Today then is the first of a pair of reviews of Valentine’s Day suitable hosiery. Pretty things that are amped up just a bit. Hosiery from mills that are not run of the mill. Lets start with a lovely new offering from a favorite old friend, StockinGirl.

I am a long time StockinGirl client. I was introduced years ago when I won an online giveaway from the fabulous Couture Carrie. I have written glowing things about them here on Guilty Pleasures and way back in the mists of time as a guest author on Treacle’s indispensable Lingerie Addict. Be advised, I am a fan.

No pussy-footing around here. StockinGirl is furiously focused on Stockings. They do mine bygone times for inspiration, but are not stuck in the past. Current and contemporary, rooted in the here and now, all grown up and still ready to misbehave nicely. Classic, yes. Kitsch no.

I wore a new and very celebratory StockinGirl model, Marissa, pictured above, out for New Year’s Eve (the other Hosiery High Holiday). My legs received more complements than I could count. Admittedly I also lost count of how may glasses of wine I inhaled, but I am quite certain that I do owe Marissa a good measure of credit for the complements. I do have nice legs, yes, but they popped like Champagne corks with Marissa’s help.

They are, in some respects, typical of StockinGirl stuff: well made, non-stretch, all nylon stocking with a  reinforced toe. And now the departures from the typical:

Cuban Heel. Full double-dark sole and heel tapering sexily upwards a good 5 inches or so north of heel socket, surely visible above ankle straps, but narrow and subtle, not at all loud and brazen.

Back Seam. Hand sewn and dye matched to the stocking yarn. Again, subtlety and sophistication are the gorgeous effects here. Attentive, refined eyes will notice you walking away. Heads will turn, but not snap.

Welt. Double yarn, modestly dark and finished with a true keyhole notch at seam top. What does the keyhole do? Practically nothing. It does however prove that there was a caring, skilled person at the sewing machine. It is a quality hallmark.

Where the quality shows best though is in the feel. Most all-nylon stockings, even the very finest, have a characteristic hand feel that is coarse relative to contemporary, everyday Lycra-enriched hosiery. This is not a bad feeling. Just a different feeling. Marissa however has a surprising yielding feel. The thread has been treated in some clever way and the result is a pliable, warm, Chambray softness that still slides and glides on and around your legs as only an all nylon (or silk I suppose) stocking can.

Which brings me back to looks. Marissa gives off a graceful glimmer in night light, and especially under close inspection by candlelight. Marissa is not a day-to-night look. This is a dinner-to-dawn look. Sophisticated, subtle, pretty and provocative. Valentine’s Day appropriate, pitch perfect even.

Choose from go-to shades of black and nude, a newly introduced pale silver and a completely come-hither violet (above). Mine are silver, and they absolutely light up the LBD. If you are even close to borderline size-wise, get over it and go up a size. Tall and curvy girls are beautifully catered to here as well, which is to be applauded. Dynamite comes in big packages too, yes?

StockinGirl has dozens of other Valentine’s Day options from value to premium price points, including the custom, personalized Cheryl’s and Ruby’s (pictured above) Yes, your own name stitched in at stocking-top you cheeky thing you. Go ahead, drop a hint and find how how smart and motivated your man is. Look around for lingerie and accessories with the same now vibe too, including a broad selection of garter belts if you need something to hold your new stockings up.

Next up, the Valentine’s Day Time Machine will whiz us back up to the future with a look at Stay-ups that are more vixen than vintage. Stay tuned.