Undeniably thee 10 best things about Christmas.

Eating

Of course this is my first thought and I'm sure many others.  This is the time of year you don't feel quite so guilty about having that extra after eight (after eating one humongous turkey, two starters and three desserts; what's an extra deliciously thin chocolate mint on top?). And the smells, oh my the smells.  Eat it all, just eat it all, deal with the rest post Christmas.


Drinking

Similarly, what's an extra glass of fizz or tipple of Bailey's going to do.  T'is the season to be merry, fa la la le la la la la...hiccup!  And anyway, the food upon food, upon food (where does it all come from?), is enough to soak it all up.


Wearing horrific jumpers

Who makes these? More to the point, who designs these monstrosities? You can't deny, we all love a hideous Crimbo jumper, sometimes we even have competitions to see who is daring enough to wear the worst one.  This is the one time of year you can walk about with various snow covered animals on your stomach and no one bats an eyelid.  Even better when they're 3D and you have to appologise when Frostie's carrot nose hits a child in the face whilst squeezing through the thousands of Christmas shoppers.


Seeing family you don't usually

This is possibly a love/hate point, depending on how much your family make you want to hide under a rock.  Fortunately in my circumstances my family all love each other (or so I think, perhaps I'm the member everyone secretly hates), and there's nothing lovelier than when we are all under the one roof for Christmas day, sharing the best part of the year.


Turning off the TV (only on Christmas day!)

I'm not sure how much of a 'normal' thing this is for other families, but generally our family don't turn the TV on during Christmas day.  Sometimes during the morning for a bit of a festive tune whilst unwrapping pressies, but for the rest of the day the box is having a much deserved rest.  Personally I love this, because it means the family decide to play all kinds of crazy, competitive games and quizzes, which in that moment, is the funniest thing in the history of ever.


Christmas television & movies

This is a time of year where it feels like a necessity to binge watch TV, Netflix, DVDs and any other source of Christmas content you can lay your Quality Street covered mits on. This time of year is the only time of year it is acceptable to watch anything Christmas related.  Oh, it's boxing day and you forgot to watch Home Alone? Nope.  In the words of Kelly Clarkston; you had your chance, you blew it.


Parties

There are never more nights out than Christmas time, (apart from that spell we all go through where all your friends somehow managed to book 21st's within a week of each other-your poor liver).  What better excuse to get dressed up, looking fabulous for about half an hour, until your shoes are off and your hair has been tossed in a bun.  This doesn't only apply to the females either.  I've seen males struggling with that brand new pair of leather smarts. Will we ever learn? (No but shoes are worth it). Eat, drink, dance and try to avoid that co-worker.  Who knows what word vomit may erupt after a few g&t's.


CEILIDHS

I don't think I need to say anymore.



The look on that persons face when they open your gift (unless it's crap, then it's a slightly different look)

This is the time of year to break out your inner ninja.  Sneaking around, hiding things, keeping secrets, the anticipation of that person opening your well thought out gift; it's all part of that tingly Christmas feeling.  The ninja of Christmas.


Feeling like a child again

Santa Clause, Rudolph, Christmas stories, surprises, that feeling of glee that makes you feel 5 again. Who doesn't love to feel young?  Some of the oldest people I know still love to see Santa Clause and his reindeer.  Maybe they can still hear the reindeer's silver bells.  Life was so much sparklier when we all still believed.



Merry Christmas!

5 swimwear sweeties

Hello again! I thought it was about time I revisited my poor neglected blog.  I've been so busy with a new job I took on over my summer break from uni, that I've hardly had any time to myself .  The wee bit of time I do get I seem to either be sleeping or trying to enjoy (unbelievable) Scottish sun/commy games!

In a few weeks (can't come soon enough), I'll be jetting off to sunny Turkey for the first time and thought I better update my bikini collection.  So, for those of you lucky enough to be catching a last minute escape, or maybe flying off in the October holidays, here's a wee round up of some fabby bikinis I've come across in my searches. 

   Firstly, I need to show off the bikini I just bought about half an hour ago, through my favourite past      time and equal kryptonite; online shopping. I'm a sucker for all things vintage & retro and I love the 

   high waisted trend from jeans and shorts, to bikinis. So when I came across this gem, I couldn't not!

   

Gorgeous matching cut out swimsuit- £9.60

Red Herring- £9 for the set

These two run from an 8-18 in size, but I'd be fast, they're bound to sell out really quickly being in the sale.

I like being able to mix and match in bikini sizes.  More often than not, the majority of folk require two different sizes for top and bottom and selling as separates is a super easy way of getting what you need!

A big surprise for me was recently discovering that Tesco online hold a whole range of fantastic fuller bust ranges, both in bikinis and bras.  Kudos to Tesco for being one of the only supermarkets around that carry ranges that you would usually only get your mitts on in big department stores, (Curvy Kate).  I couldn't believe my eyes when I came across their range.  Granted, their prices are similar across the board as Curvy Kate set their own prices; however Tesco is a lot easier for some to access than department stores are.  Also, Tesco often have unbelievable sales, look out for Curvy Kate with discounts!  I love the thought of popping your well fitting lingerie or bikini in with your weekly shop, we truly are in the future!

If you're after a decent 'fuller bust' bikini, that won't leave you with a sore neck from the halter have a peek at Panache's range of swimwear.  True to size, in my opinion and a great fit.  My personal favourite at the moment is 'Lucille'.  A bit of a nautical theme to it and giving fab lift without giving you that four boob effect. The straps are detachable too (hooray for no tan lines!).  It runs in nearly every size from a D onwards (28D-38J).  Choose a bigger back size & smaller cup if you feel it too tight round the band.

Also available in classic nautical navy

Once again I'll be bragging about Boux Avenue.  I just think for the prices and being on the 'high street' they do a good job at their range of sizes and styles whilst paying a bit less.  There's always great deals or a sale on and their swimwear this season have been really stunning. The swimwear they produce is fantastic quality and an excellent fit.  At the moment selected lines in their swimwear range are 25% off, so have a gander if you're flying off on your holibobs soon!

Shop 'Bermuda' here with 25% off!

'Bermuda' is such a feminine floral number with all the support you need.  Ranging from a 30D to a 38G this flattering piece is so pretty and a bit nicer than some of the boring swimwear sets available in fuller bust sizes in many other shops.  Great coverage as well as lifting and shaping and cute wee briefs, what more could you want!  Grab it if you're passing a Boux Avenue, or shop online, the sales don't last forever!


I'm going to throw in number five as a 'splash out' (excuse the horrific pun), because it retails at £55.   Of course it has to be Gossard.  Renowned for their beautiful prints and materials, whilst keeping that vintage flare.  Now, whilst not in everybody's price range, I am in love with this swimsuit and it offers something a bit different for those of you who either want a wee change and fancy a swimsuit, or would rather have a bit more coverage.  Very vintage, a beautiful shape and a plunging neckline, this swimsuit will suit every shape and covers sizes 30D-38G.

Get it here

How beautiful is this print? If I had a spare few pennies it would be on me already as I do my swimming poses in front of my mirrored wardrobe.  Somebody please buy this so I can live vicariously through you.

There we are; a quick flash of five of the sweetest swimwear pieces about at the moment that cover a wide range of cup sizes.

Grab a wee bargain before you jet set away, you'll be thanking yourself when you're turning heads by the pool!

Do you have any beach essentials that rival or compliment these pieces?

Sports bras- A shock absorber low down

Yes, I have returned! Crawling out of the dark abyss that is essays and reports, uni has eventually finished for another year and I am free (somewhat)!  My poor little blog was placed on the back burner, whilst I swapped breasts with occupational therapy and also started a new job.  Happy to have that out the road, I thought it was about time I conjured up another wee bra post; this time we're talking sports.

A few weeks ago I toddled along with mummy Macey to the Debenhams bra fitting event in Glasgow. We decided to book in for the Shock Absorber sports bras demonstration since my mum was running the 10k & the half marathon in October and her old sports bra had been washed within an inch of its boob filled life.  The event consisted of an extremely knowledgeable lady from Shock Absorber head office enlightening us about the do's and don't's of sports bras & exercise before a complimentary fitting from the shock absorber representative.  We even got a yummy glass of Prosecco and there was lots of prizes and raffles.  Of course I was the lucky bugger who won £100 of designer at Debenhams vouchers to spend on what I pleased; sports bra for the mum being number 1 on the list.  I also came away with a decent amount of beauty goodies which was a nice little extra!

Some lovely free goodies!

Anyway, enough about me and onto the subject at hand; sports bras.  Specifically appropriate with all these inspirational runs going on over the past few months and those of you working towards your own fitness goals.  Marathon, half marathon, 10k, 5k, gym, sports & even yoga there is a sports bra suited for you & your sport and if you own a pair of breasts and undertake sports, you should own a sports bra, and a good fitting one at that.  This post will focus specifically on Shock Absorbers, as this was the topic at the fitting event and I will try my best to recap what the shock absorber representative so brilliantly taught us.

First off, there are no muscles in the breast tissue whatsoever, so it is particularly important to protect your breasts from bouncing during any kind of sports.  This will keep your coopers ligaments (the tissue in your breast) from over stretching.  Another thing that most folk get a little bit wrong with sports bras, is that there should be absolutely no cleavage on show if your sports bra fits correctly. Your breasts really should be well covered.  I know this won't be pleasing for all, but personally all I care about is that I don't have to worry about my boobs and instead concern myself with the possibility of collapsing/thinking that I might combust if I keep running/cycling/climbing/zoomba-ing any longer.

Here are the top shock absorber bras for just about every sport you can think of:

- Ultimate Gym Bra RRP £35

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This nifty number covers a complete range of gym activities and is ideal if your main form of exercise consists of gym based activities or classes.  It has a racer back for an extra touch of added support and a cross over design at the front.  It also has a lovely soft, seam-free lining famous to shock absorber bras, to prevent chaffing and rubbing on your nipples.  I'm sure you know what I'm talking about if you've ever undertaken any kind of exercise in a regular bra! Nippy nippy!  It also has a nifty wee wire holder for earphones, so you don't have to worry about the wire constantly tapping against you or pulling your earphones out the socket all the time.  Finally, as with all shock absorbers, it is moisture wicking, breathable and has padded straps and fastenings to prevent any uncomfortable digging in.

Here it is at Amazon on sale for £25 or at Debenhams for £28. Sizes this number is available in are: 30-38 back & cups A-H. Nab a wee bargain!



- The Run Bra RRP £38

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This is the best bra I have found so far for all those enthusiastic (or less so) runners.  If you are running any kind of distance with boobs you want to invest in one of these life savers.  I have one myself and convinced the mum into getting the same for her runs and neither of us have looked back. It is a little neater than some other sports bras (for obvious reasons) but really does the trick for minimal movement and rubbing when running.  It has amazing 'technology' that counteracts the figure of 8 movement your breasts naturally do when running.  The same famous moisture wicking material in all their bras, a double fastening with a clip between the shoulder blades to improve running posture to open up the lungs and a reflective strip along the cups (in case you are confident enough or in a warm enough country to run without a t-shirt-fat chance in Scottish weather!).  This really is superb for running and reduces bounce by up to 78%!
They also carry it in some funky colours, changing the colour design each year.

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Look at these gorgeous colours! It is also available in black & white. Sizes available run from a 30-38 & A-F. Get your mits on it here at Debenhams or here at Amazon for a little less than £25. 

- Active D+ Classic Sports Bra RRP £30

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This is a fabby bra for those with a fuller bust who want a decent support whilst exercising.  It is suitable for all types of sports and exercise and really gives a great under band support.  It provides a rounder shape than some other sports bras and doesn't separate you in both directions as many sports bras do.  The same soft seam free lining as all shock absorbers and lovely padded straps and closure for extra comfort.  This one only comes in black and white, they really should add some lovely colours in there I think!

Once again, grab it here at Debenhams for the bargain price of £24 or at Amazon for around £22.  The sizes for this run in a 30-40 back and cup sizes D-H. What a wonderful range!

-Active Multi Sports Bra RRP £31

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This is a similar bra to the one above and is shock absorbers classic all rounder. It's suitable for all types of sports and recently won an award in Horse & Rider magazine for the best tried and tested sports bra.  It boasts extreme support for every type of sports imaginable from yoga to metafit, it literally covers everyone.  It has wee mesh breathable panels at the side and moisture wicking material all over. A double clasp for added support  Available in black, white and seasonal colours, spring/summer 14 colour is similar in most styles:

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So pretty!  I am so glad sports bras have taken the move to something a bit less, (for want of a better word), frumpy. The multi sports bra runs from a 30-40 B-GG.  Get it here for £30 at Debenhams and Amazon for £22.50.  

Oh and FYI, Debenhams mega week is currently on, so now is the perfect time to grab yourself a discounted Shock Absorber!

There are of course, many other excellent sports bras from various brands on the market, but these four were focussed on at the fitting event and don't break the bank, allowing you to save your pennies for pretty sports outfits, holidays, alcohol...whatever floats your spending boat.

Before I conclude my sporty post, a few little extras everyone who needs a sports bra should know. Firstly, sports bras definitely are firmer than a regular bra, but remember that you want it nice and firm to support you when your exercising.  Obviously you still want to be able to breathe, but try the bra on to see which is the best support for you and always do the jump test!  It might sound bizarre but have a little jump in the fitting room (no one can see you), it helps to get a better feel to the bras usefulness. Remember there should be no overspill and adjust the straps to what feels comfy.  The fastenings should be on the loosest hook and eye as usual.  Go for your usual size to start and if it feels way too tight, up the back size and drop the cup & see how that feels.

Go on, treat yourself!  After all, a decent fitting sports bra is just as important as a good fitting pair of trainers, both will make such a difference to your exercise and allow you to concentrate on achieving your fitness goals rather than pulling that unsupportive bra into place every time you move.


You are all an inspiration & remember; the secret to achieving your fitness goals is to start!


Happy exercising,

You need these bras in your life; 10 Summer bras that won't break the bank...

Now that we have tackled the hefty topic of understanding how to fit your bra, I thought I would give you lovely ladies a little peek at a selection of the prettiest, penny saving bras for Spring/Summer 14. These gorgeous bras take inspiration from some of the trends hot off the catwalk; pretty pastels and bold florals. I've also thrown in a couple of key staples for every 'bradrobe', that a girl just shouldn't allow her boobies to live without.  So go on ladies, treat yourself to a fresh new bra for the (hopefully) warmer months.
Coming in at £20-£30, these gorgeous wee picks won't break the bank!

Here are my top ten picks for Spring/Summer 2014, I hope your bank card is at your fingertips!

Freya Flourish in Tropical rrp £30

Now Freya have always been a personal favourite brand of mine & I always recommend them.  Not only is their size range fantastic, but their seasonal styles are always bang on trend.  To add to the growing list of wonderfulness, their fit is fabulous.  Freya literally have a bra for almost every size/shape/body.

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This is a an all round super bra.  Keeping in line with the flowery trend of S/S 14; style, fit, support and shape are all squeezed into one lovely little number (unlike your newly fitted boobies).  Flourish is available from a C-K cup & a 28-38 underband, so caters for a lovely range of boobie shapes & sizes.  Do try before you buy ladies, as recently their switch to new manufacturers has meant their underband fitting has been a tad on the large size, (meaning you may have to step down a back size).  Flourish is classed as a 'balcony plunge', meaning it's a wee bit fuller on the cup than a regular plunge, but still gives the cleavage we so desire from the famous plunge shape, pushing in from the sides.  It is also available in the very gorgeous longline style.  You can get your flowery little fingers on it via Figleaves (where it is currently only £22.50!), Debenhams (where it is 15% off) & House of Fraser (where it is a bragain £21!). So feminine!

Panache Fern in Blue Floral Balconette rrp £29

Panache is  another brilliant lingerie brand that you either love, or you have yet to discover how much you love them.  Once again, they are forever on trend whether summer or winter and their lingerie ranges wonderfully from a 28-38 on the back and D-K on the cup.  The only annoyance I've found is that many shops have now stopped stocking Panache, "why" I hear you shout!  I have no idea, they really are losing out!

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This gorgeous wee bra combines pastels and florals with a pretty wee lace trim at the top (what more could a girl wish for?!).  I would always recommend trying a bra on (as I usually say buying a bra is like buying a pair of shoes).  Panache can be a wee bitty neat on the back, but remember my bra fitting tips & you should soon be rocking Fern, whatever your size.  Find this bra at Figleaves currently at £23.20, ASOS, or Amazon (yes amazon sell bras!). 

Curvy Kate Princess Tigerlily/Rose rrp £29

Okay so anyone who knows me knows how obsessed (literally) I am with Disney.  So, it was only logical I included this wee number in my picks, with Peter Pan being my second favourite Disney thing ever.  However, the coral colour is very on trend for S/S 14 and Curvy Kate is a gem of a fuller bust brand.

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Hello summer!  This bra just oozes summer colour and design.  With polka dot detailing to the cups & lace and bows, it's gorgeously feminine whilst boasting support and comfort.  This perfect number for the season comes in a 28-40 back in cups D-K & in back size 42-44 in a D-G.  Pretty much every lovely lady can get their boobies into this for the summer months & that excellent tall bridge should fit most shapes perfectly.  I think this is one I need in my undie drawer!  Find Princess Tigerlilly at Debenhams, Figleaves & Amazon (where it is currently on sale!).

Wonderbra Ultimate Strapless in Nude rrp £34

Now this wee bra doesn't exactly fall into our price range, however it is currently on sale in Debenhams for £27.20.  I cannot recommend this bra enough.  I tell everyone I can about the wonderful Wonderbra Ultimate Strapless.  This includes my poor friend who I coaxed into buying this bra for under her wedding dress later on in the year.  She converted almost instantly after trying it on.  Go on, go on, go on, try it for yourself, you will not be disappointed!  

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Wonderbra is notorious for being a 'smaller busted brand'.  Branding ourselves as smaller and larger busted really is a pet peeve of mine, everyone is normal for their own body.  But, before I get carried away I'll continue about the bra at hand.  This key staple that every lovely lady should own, comes in sizes 30-38 in cups A-G.  Yes, that's right ladies, Wonderbra has caught on to the fact that a G cup is common & that these gorgeous ladies also need a decent fitting (& nicer looking) strapless bra.  You can see from the photo that it is actually a plunge strapless, something I have never found anywhere other than Wonderbra & this works amazingly for every cup size within this range.  I've rarely seen this as a bad match for any lady.  Once again be careful chickadees, it can be fairly neat on the back (however you want your strapless a little tighter than your everyday bra).  Give it a whirl, you won't regret it!  Find the Ultimate Wonderbra Strapless at Debenhams for the sale price or John Lewis where it is also on sale.  You can also find it on Amazon where it is available for Prime if you're in a wee bit of a rush!

Gorgeous Comfort Cup Tshirt Bra in Nude rrp £19.50

Okay okay, so now I just seem boring, but trust me this is one you want in your bradrobe.  Debenhams have hit a winner with the comfort cup Tshirt bra.  I know that a Tshirt bra seems extremely mundane, but it really should be every lovely ladies trusty companion.  This bra is the best Tshirt bra I have ever came across.  Gorgeously soft, comfy and supportive at the same time as giving you a fabulous uplift and wonderfully smooth shape underneath every material and outfit.  

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This bra can work under shift dresses, blouses, work uniforms; you name it.  Especially as we all begin to break out our lighter colours (hooray!). This bra is perfect for under whites and pastels (NEVER wear white bras under white, always nude).  Honestly, I have never seen such a versatile bra and you will just love the softness of it.  It is Debenham's best selling bra and for good reason.  It comes in sizes 30-40 and cups A-G and will leave you feeling smooth & confident without that famous double boob effect. Grab it in the sale for £15.60 at Debenhams. 

Boux Avenue Tori Lace in Grey & Dusky Pink rrp: £25.00

This bra is just so pretty.  The straps are lovely instead of the usual boring, plain strap & the colour is so soft & feminine.  Boux Avenue is such a pretty shop full of enticing colours & designs, you can't help but take something home! This bra is classic lace and on trend pastel merged together to form the perfect springtime plunge bra. 

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This pretty little plunge comes in sizes 30A-38F, so not the widest of ranges, but it sure is lovely.  With cute wee Moroccan lantern detail to the cups and the perfectly paired grey and dusky pink, this is a bra that could be worn with many outfits throughout spring/summer.  Plunging, padded cups push you in from the side for a gorgeous cleavage.  It's just so cute and comes in a whole array of colours; white, pink, lavender, raspberry, aqua and black.  Find it at Boux Avenue.

Panache Elsa Balconette Bra rrp £29

Another favourite from the trusty Panache.  This wee wonder gives a tad more coverage but still provides the push up shape of a balconette.  Edging on the vintage side of lingerie, with matching high waisted briefs, Elsa is sophisticated and practical with its nude coverage and lace design.  

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Nude is a nifty wee colour for under everything.  It is the best colour for under lights & whites (whereas white always shines through), and it works under darks & colours too.  What's not to love?! Elsa comes in sizes 30-38 and cups D-K, so one for nearly everybody & in certain cup sizes comes in soft padded straps for a wee bit more comfort .  Find it at Bravissimo and Figleaves, where you can get your hands on a summery coral colour too. Perfect.

Ultimo The One Va Va Voom rrp £25

Ultimo is usually a bit of a miss for me.  The cups can be quite tiny and the wires tend to come up quite short at the side meaning they dig in to your breast tissue, (no lady wants that!).  Saying that, at times it can be really great.  This is one of those times.  On trend with the framework strapping, Ultimo has followed in the lines of one of the key spring features for lingerie 2014.  Make sure you try this on and that the points of a great fitting bra are all checked off, before adding this super sexy style to your collection.

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'The One' from Ultimo, was designed as a Tshirt bra with a boost.  Lightly foamed cups give a signature cleavage so famously associated with Ultimo, whilst still claiming to eliminate that dreaded four booby effect.  It is a bit limited in size ranges, since Ultimo's unique selling point is their patented silicone padding (the same stuff used in breast enhancements), so is targeted more to those ladies who would like a bit of an extra push.  Sizes range from 30-38 back & A-DD cups.  Get it at Debenhams or House of Fraser where you can try before you pop it on or straight from the company itself, Ultimo.

Cleo Minnie Bra rrp £27

Another Disney reference, I told you I was obsessed.  Cleo is a fun & colourful range manufactured by Panache, with all the same support but starting at a 28 back (hooray for me!).  Inspired by Minnie Mouse & her super cute polka dot, red & white dress, this balcony bra almost looks like a bikini and makes me want to squeel like a girl with excitement.  

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This bra is almost sickly sweet, but in a good way, (if that's possible).  It kind of reminds me of sweets or strawberries, so super cute for summer time.  Even living in Scotland, the land of no summer, a bit of colour certainly lifts the mood and this is no exception.  Lace detailing and a tiny bow on the bridge just add to the 'Disney-esque' of it all.  I'm in love.  Available in 28-38 back sizes & D-J cups, nearly every lady can bring out the Disney in them that's hidden in there somewhere.  Get it at Bravissimo, Figleaves or ASOS (where it's a bargain £16!).  

Freya Deco Honey bra in Aqua rrp £32

Well it was only logical to finish how we started, with another gem from Freya.  Deco has been a classic style from Freya, since the dawning of time (slight exaggeration), but it just keeps getting better.  Originally released in staple colours of nude & black, every season Freya produce a gorgeous themed colour/ design of the wonderful Deco.  This summer there seem to be more colours and designs than ever before, including a super cute flamingo pattern (so Alicey, I must have it), and the bright pastel shade of Aqua.

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Aqua is usually a colour I always ignore, feeling it sometimes looks a tad on the cheap side.  However I think Freya have given it just enough 'aqua' to make it look fresh, bright and appealing; without looking that 'fiver bra from Primark' way.  If you really dislike aqua, or maybe you're not quite brave enough to go that wee bit brighter, why not try the gorgeous Jade colour instead?  I know this bra is slightly over budget, coming in at £32, however the pennies will be well spent if you take the plunge and invest (no terrible pun intended).  Speaking of which, Freya have done what most brands are too nervous to do & produced a fantastic fitting, moulded plunge bra in sizes 28-38 and cups D to GG.  Finally, you lovely ladies in G's & GG's can get your boobies into a well fitting and sexy plunge style bra, knowing that your girls will definitely stay put.  With style, comfort and support the Deco is an excellent all-rounder with a smooth finish and gets raving reviews on lingerie sites.  Get your paws on it at House of Fraser, John Lewis, (where it's actually only £28), or Figleaves.   

So there we go lovely ladies, you will have revamped your bradrobe in a few easy clicks & a PayPal password; just try not to get too carried away!  It's worth a mention though that all the bras featured in this post come with matching briefs, what better excuse to get a new wee set.


Do you have any summer picks you'd like to share?

Remember to check in & be part of the bra revolution!


Until the next post...

The in's and out's of a great fitting over-the-shoulder-boulder-holder...

This is a post I've been, I wouldn't say putting off, but certainly dilly-dallying about, as it's such a huge topic to cover.  So, without further ado, here are the most important bits and pieces of bra fitting, every lovely lady should know.

First off, after doing a little research of my own online, I was very unsurprised to notice that every retailer and brand of lingerie tell ladies to measure themselves and fit themselves in a whole host of different methods. How confusing for ladies who are looking for some informed advice. A very popular (and terribly old fashioned) way is the good (seriously bad) old tape measure plus 4.  Now, this involves, for some really bizarre reason, measuring your chest and your underband and adding 4 (inches).  Why do people come up with these nonsense rules?  This makes me so frustrated!  Adding 4 inches onto what you measure around your underband will definitely leave you with a seriously poor and ill-fitting bra.  I'll use myself as an example here.  I fit an underband of 28 inches, (depending on the bra, but more on that later).  Adding 4 inches to this would give me a bra size of 32, which inevitably will pretty much hang off my back.  Ladies, if you find a fitter uses this method on you during a fitting, please escape as quickly as you can slip that over sized bra off! There is just no point in wearing a bra if it's hanging off your back.  You should never be able to pull your underband far away from your back.  Back 'fat' is normal... everyone gets it.  I have seen every shape and size of person and boobies and I can promise you now every single person gets it if your bra fits you properly.


There are various other fiddly methods of measuring yourself with the not so trusty measuring tape, however the most important thing about your bra is the fit.  No matter how many lingerie departments or fitters insist that you measure a specific size, the fit is what you should always go by. Please don't get hung up on sizing via tape.  It doesn't know who made your bra or how stretchy the elastic is on the particular lovely garment. It also doesn't know how full your breasts are or if the cups in a particular bra are 'big/small made'.  It doesn't really take into account anything to do with your shape of body, muscle mass or rib shape. A measuring tape is not usually your booby's friend.

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Now there are a number of 'points of fit', which will all draw together rather nicely to leave you with the best fitting bra for your boobies, shape & anatomy.  Of course, the points I mention here will be your starting point and each bra differs in the way the manufacturer produces our lovely booby holders.  I would also recommend going to a reputable and decent shop to get fitted.  This can be hard to find, but most lovely ladies will spread recommendations of fitters by word of mouth.  In the Glasgow area I would always recommend Debenhams Argyle Street & Frasers.  A fitter who is doing her job correctly will follow these marker points during your session:

-Introduce herself and find out a little about the issues you might be having with your current bra.  It's never nice to have a fitter burst into your room whilst you are in your smalls and feeling a bit on the vulnerable side, without talking to you.

- Tell you why your bra might not be fitting.  Now, 9 times out of 10 the issue is the back (underband) is far too large, and the cup is toaty.

- Fit you with a bra that suits your body shape, this includes how full your bust is and the shape of your boobies; the curvature of your breast bone; the shape of your back and the shape of your shoulders.  We don't just look at boobies, however many males seem to think this is the case! We need to consider all aspects of the upper half of your lovely body.  One person in a 32E could be a very different shape to another in the same size.

- Once the fitter and your lovely self have found a bra that you feel fits well, she will then run through all the ways it should be currently fitting you.  Here they are:

• The underband should always be on the loosest hook and eye (that's the outermost) and you should be able to only run 3/4 fingers underneath your underband at the ribs and at the closure. You should definitely not be able to pull your bra away from your body, it should be snug.  The underband is what gives you support (not the straps!!!), so try and get used to it being firm, it is worth it!

• The reason for this hook & eye loosest setting malarky, is so that when you wash your bra and wear and stretch it (hopefully with love), you can tighten it in a wee notch each time. This means your bra will always fit lovely and snug until you stretch it out on the last hook & eye. At that point you might have to say RIP to your favey bra and go and treat yourself to a new one!

• The bridge (that's the bit of material in the middle between your cups) should always sit flush against your chest, in wired bras.  If it does not it may simply be that the shape of the bridge doesn't follow the shape of your breast bone.  Try a few different shapes of bras and bridges out.  You should really be able to slide one finger under your bridge also.  As a side note of advice, usually ladies with a deeper chest bone who's breasts are closer together suit a taller bridge that can slot in there nicely and separate your boobies out.  Those ladies with a flatter chest bone (like myself) can quite often wear most shapes of bridges, but personally I prefer a balcony style with a bit of a shorter bridge.

• You should have no over spill and no gaping in the cups.  The material should not pucker in non padded bras, but should be lovely and taught against your breast.  A good wee trick to check your boobies aren't having a bit of a double boob affect, is to turn to the side and look in the mirror side on.  Looking down does not help!

• The straps should be adjusted so that you can slide a wee finger underneath it (between the strap and your shoulder) and have it with a little pull against your finger.  I cannot stress enough that you should never have to tighten your straps to keep your bra up.  This is how you will get indents and problems with your shoulders.  Let the underband do the work for you!  That's what it's there for after all.

• Your bra should form one smooth line from your chest to your back.  In other words, your bra should be in the same position at the front and at the back, not up at the back and down at the front, or vice versa.

• The wires should be behind your breast tissue and not touching it.  Feel for where your breast tissue starts and where your wire is.  If the cup is too small your wire will most likely be sitting on soft breast tissue.  Before I started as a fitter I used to take my bra off at night and feel like I was bruised.  This was because the wires were digging into my breasts.  The wire is there to encase your breast tissue right round your breast, but should not be touching or nipping it, either at the side or at the front.

• Put your bra on however you wish, but remember to scoop & shoogle! Make sure you scoop all your breast tissue into your cup and that you are well and firmly seated properly in your comfy wee boob house.  Bend forward and grab your underband and shake from side to side, making sure you the bra is sitting on you properly.

This lovely wee diagram rounds it up a little prettier than I can!

Source

Finally, it's important to remember ladies, that if a bra doesn't fit you it's the bras issue, not yours!  It clearly just isn't 'the one'.  There is a bra out there for all of us, much like a soul mate, no matter what shape or size we are.  Take the time to get yourself fitted, it's just as important (if not more) than the rest of your stylish outfit and will definitely make you look and feel much more confident.  A great fitting bra does wonders for the self esteem, try it!  Remember that you should try your bras on, just like you would a pair of shoes, before buying.  Take time to try it on under your top and see how you feel in it.  Love your boobies and your body!  I would say probably 90% of ladies I've ever fitted had pretty much the same first opening sentence when I stepped behind that curtain: " Oh excuse my flab, excuse my skin, excuse this & that".  Ladies you should never feel like you have to justify yourself to anyone (and as fitters we are only interested in your wonderful boobies anyway!).

So go on lovely ladies, get yourself a new bra wardrobe started!  Remember that you are changing size all the time, whether you are losing or gaining weight, (even if you don't feel you have), your size is never the same throughout your life span.  Aim to get fitted at least twice a year, schedule it in!  Debenhams Bra Fit Event will be running from 6th-26th April, offering a free fit (& usually a £5 off voucher when you spend a certain amount on bras following a fit), so it is well worth a wee gander!

Remember to check in soon & be part of the bra revolution ladies!

Please feel free to comment or privately message me if you would like about any bra related questions! I'm not so scary & neither are bras.

Until the next post...

Breast Cancer Awareness- The no makeup 'selfie'

Another Facebook fad has seemingly developed overnight- 'the no make up selfie', originally started for Breast Cancer Awareness.  Now, whilst I'm all for charity and fundraising,  I feel I can offer a little bit more than my spotty face to the world wide web.  So, after texting my donation, I offer up some advice, on checking your beloved boobies and I'll probably throw in a few of my own experiences fitting lovely ladies who have been through breast cancer.

So let's get to the important part that many ladies are still a little unsure of; checking your boobs.  There are lots of excellent little diagrams and bits and pieces of advice out there on the best way to do this, but my personal favourite is 'TLC'. Touch, Look, Check.  It's a lovely little concise way of getting into a routine of checking your boobies and makes it a little less daunting, in my opinion.

Touch your breasts, does anything feel abnormal?  You know your body best.

Look for any changes in the shape and texture of your breasts.

Check anything you may be unsure of with your GP.  That's what they're there for after all!

Try to get yourself into a wee routine of checking, a good time is in the bath or shower.  Most cases of breast cancer are picked up by you lovely ladies being aware of changes to your boobs.

Look out for these particular changes, when you are checking your breasts

Find out more on breakthrough.org.uk

Breakthrough have also developed a nifty wee app for iPhone and Android, with a handy wee reminder service and some very useful videos.  It also gives you some great little tips on how your lifestyle may increase your risk of breast cancer. You can download it here.

If you are one of the inspiring ladies who has experienced breast cancer and as such has had a mastectomy or lumpectomy, I can't encourage you enough to get fitted.  This is understandably a nerve-wracking concept to many ladies who have had these procedures and who may now be wearing a prosthesis.  You are not alone and you have every bit the same right as all of us to feel gorgeous, feminine and sexy in your lingerie.  You are not restricted to a life of non-wired and non supportive bras lovely ladies!  True, you are usually recommended to stay in your non-wired bras until your scar tissue is lovely and healed and not quite as tender, but you can eventually get back into wires.

Many, many women in this particular situation are very unaware of their lingerie options, but there are so many gorgeous (wired) bras out there that work perfectly with a prosthesis, (double or single).  I have fitted many ladies who have come to the point where they have given up on finding the correct sized bra with their prosthesis and have accepted that they never will.  A well trained fitter should spend time with you finding the correct size and shape of bra for your body, whilst being the style you desire.

So get yourself fitted ladies!  There are many wonderfully skilled bra fitters who are kind and knowledgeable and will put you at ease.  There is not enough information about where is good to get fitted, however I would always recommend Debenhams (Argyle Street if you are in Glasgow).

Be breast aware and be part of the bra revolution, ladies.

Leave comments or get in touch, I'd love to hear from you & your experiences.

The Liebster Award, Hooray!

Now this Liebster award thingy was a bit of a head scratcher to begin with, however I think I have gotten my blonde noggin around it now.  Nominated by the lovely Oyster Girl, it's a wonderful little way of networking with like-minded bloggers and the chance to give readers a wee bit more of an insight into the writer behind 'Fill Your Cups', (because I'm sure you're all dying to know).  I have a set of well thought out questions to answer, alongside some facts about myself.  I feel like I'm under a spotlight now!

11 (insert your favourite adjective) Facts about me...

- I am 23 and currently in my second year of  BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy.

- When I was younger I lived in many countries, my dad was an army man.

- You could probably say I have a (slightly unhealthy) obsession with all things Disney & Harry Potter.

- I used to be a Veterinary Nurse.

- I am a lover of all things old, vintage and unique.

- If I am near a charity shop I need to go in, for fear of missing out on a hidden gem or bargain.

- Most of my favourite movies are either black & white, or old classics.

- I love spending time around people, especially old folk.  They have the most wonderful stories which aren't 
  listened to enough.

- I sometimes think that I could be Alice In Wonderland.

- Gin is my tipple of choice, closely followed by peppermint tea.

- I would love to pet a Giraffe.


Now my designated questions from the lovely oyster girl...


1. Why did you start your blog?

I began 'Fill Your Cups', after working for almost 5 years as a bra fitter and realising how many ladies just do not have enough information about the fit of their bra, their bodies & their boobies.  I also like to talk.

2. Morning person or night owl?
Most definitely a night owl, me.  Mornings and I usually have some heated debates and stern words going on.

3. Savoury or sweet?

I am 100% a savoury person.  I could devour cheese and biscuits and not be fussed about a box of chocolates being passed around.  Chocolate, cakes & all things sweetly are not the ones for me, sadly.

4. Favourite season in the year?

This question is tricky for such an indecisive person as me.  I like all the seasons for their own unique reasons.  If I had to choose, winter & summer are both my favourite in equal measures.

5. Whats the one item you could not live without?

I really like dry shampoo.  I feel this may be the item I couldn't live without, but I worry that's a bit... stupid/ boring.  That's my final answer. (I need to also make a shout-out to my beloved bed.)

6. What was the first job you wanted to do when you were wee?

According to family members, when I was about 3, I used to tell people that I was going to grow up to become a taxi driver.  I would seriously worry for my passenger's well-being if that were the case now.

7. Dogs or cats?

I am and always will be, a dog person.

8. In a zombie apocalypse would you board yourself in your home with plenty of supplies OR get in your car with a full tank of petrol and drive with limited supplies?

I feel this is a question I should consult my boyfriend on, as he's the one who plays all the games & would probably be of most help in such a menacing situation.  However, I think I would get in the car & drive.  Being cooped up would probably drive me insane and I'm too nosey to stay cut off from everything.

9. If you were invisible for a day what would you do?

I would probably like to play pranks on people, but then I'm not sure if that would only be funny with an accomplice. I think I would go to the Harry Potter studios as a sneaky free admission, (so wild).

10. Do you believe in fate?

I'm a great believer in 'What's for you, won't go by you', all the ladies in my family love that motto.  I suppose that fate is a bit of a similar concept, so yes, I do.

11. How long have you been blogging for?

 Just over a week.  I'm just beginning to find my feet in the maze that is the blogging world.

So now that that is done, I need to nominate some other nice blogger folk to take us on a wee trip into their world. So for this, I nominate:

Scottish Bitches

The New Bridget

Love Your Nails xo

What Liv Loves

Tulipsandcake

cookie and lace

And here are my 11 questions for you ladies!

1) What pushed you into beginning a blog?

2) What is your 'must-have' beauty product?

3) What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time?

4) What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

5) What's your favourite book and why?

6) What's your favourite thing about where you live?

7) If you could buy anything, disregarding cost, what would that item be?

8) What is something unique about yourself?

9) Where is your favourite place to shop?

10) If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

11) What is one piece of advice you would give to your readers?

Well that's a wrap folks!  Thanks again to The Oyster Girl for the award & I hope the new award winners enjoy their questions.  I think this is possibly the longest post I have done so far, so pats on the back all round, for those of you that lasted 'till the end!  

Until the next post...