LondonEdge A/W 15 and S/S 16 with Vintage Inspiration

With just four weeks to go, it's time to take a sneak preview of what you can expect from the brands exhibiting at LondonEdge AW15. The epicentre of youth subculture and cutting edge fashion bursts into the Business Design Centre, Islington from 6th-8th September 2015. 

Here's what to look out for from our vintage favourites this season.

LondonEdge Reveals Beautiful New A/W ’15 and S/S ’16 Vintage Inspiration

Making its return the Business Design Centre in Islington from 6^th-8^th September, LondonEdge is back, bigger and better than ever before. Boasting a new list of exhibitors and brands, the show is proving that it is the epicentre of cutting edge fashion. The femme fatale in you has never been so spoilt for choice, with a range of brands flocking to the show to exhibit their new season of collections. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to vintage inspired collections this season.

Collectif – Iconic Style combined with Modern Life

Vintage style for modern life – Collectif celebrates being fifteen years young this season with a beautiful collection of vibrant, eye-catching patterns and feminine lines to recreate the look of original 1940s and 50s styling. Using authentic patterns from the styles of two of the most iconic eras in fashion, the curvy girl has found her mecca in a brand that celebrates femininity in its greatest form. Having just shot their latest collection – they can’t wait to share it with you.

Hell Bunny – Leading the Charge & Rocking the Show

Answering the prayers to those looking for an edgier, punkier style of streetwear, Hell Bunny put the cute and the vintage back into alternative fashion. Known for their signature 40s, 50s, retro and rockabilly to gothic, rock and punk styles, the brand have become a leader in the youth fashion market from the off. With a beautiful line of prom dresses, tea dresses and classic garments in cute prints, it is obvious why the brand remain a favourite of buyers at LondonEdge and this season’s collection is no exception. Who could deny that these versatile lines, created to suit and array of shapes and sizes, would fail to capture the hearts of all who wear them?

Voodoo Vixen – Glamour on Legs

A stunning collection of custom prints and beautiful lines is what you can expect from the leading vintage inspired label. Bringing retro, classic and rockabilly styles to life for the modern woman, Voodoo Vixen were the talk of the exhibition at LondonEdge back in February. Creating garments with classic lines to compliment the curves of every woman is their mission as their stand-out, unique designs bring glamour to every wardrobe. Known for their high quality and iconic collections, Voodoo Vixen is looking to be one to watch for AW15.

Coral and Jade - Making a Huge Splash

Three gorgeous brands under one umbrella – and we cannot wait for you to see them! Introducing the terrific trio of Bettie Page, Girl Howdy and Esther Williams to LondonEdge for the very first time, Coral and Jade are set to make quite the splash onto the scene for AW2015. From swimwear to the classic vintage prom dress, Coral and Jade promise to have all bases covered when it comes to gorgeous vintage styling. We know you won’t be disappointed with their pretty prints and keen eye for detail. We’re excited just talking about it. Definitely a must-see at the show!

Banned Apparel - Stand Up & Be Counted

With 25 years of experience in their field, Banned have come a long way from their original market stall in Greenwich. Now in a league of its own, the brand is renowned for its dreamboats and petticoats style attire. With beautiful prints and new styles debuting each season in their clothing, footwear and accessory ranges, Banned are recognised for their signature prints, lines and focus on creating the perfect style for every figure. Fun, flirty, yet edgy and defined, this collection is guaranteed to get you noticed.

Freddie’s of Pinewood - Celebrates Authenticity

Transport yourselves back in time to the statement styling of the 1940s and 50s, to an era of teddy boys, classic cars and rock n’ roll. Freddie’s of Pinewood create jeans and casualwear inspired by the styles of the times. A festival favourite, their capri pants, pedal pushers and tailored lines are a massive attraction for buyers. If high waists and cute blouses or tops are your bag then you’ve definitely met your match with Freddie’s of Pinewood. We promise you, this brand will make you want to roll your hair and unleash your inner pin-up, just as life should be!

The Seamstress of Bloomsbury - The Perfectly Classic Encounter

If wartime classic looks are your bag, you’ll love the collection from The Seamstress of Bloomsbury. An beautiful collaboration of tea dresses, classic styles of the period, jumpsuits and stunning traditional prints, this collection is a tribute to the work of Lillian Wells, an apprentice to a Bloomsbury Seamstress whose pipedream to meet her soldier never quite made it into reality. Reviving her original patterns and designs, The Seamstress of Bloomsbury are definitely a contender for offering some of the most breath taking designs of the show.

Miss Candyfloss – Vintage Style & Integrity

Bringing the styles of the 40s and 50s into the 21^st century, Miss Candyfloss not only create beautiful clothing but they’re ethical too. This means that all of their garments are created within a good working environment, with the very best fair trade fibres and at a fair price to all involved in the creation of each item. As a brand that believes quality and integrity is key, Miss Candyfloss demands the very best at all stages of production as they believe that this will lead to a good quality product. Judging from the collections they are showcasing, they’re doing something right!

Love Her Madly - Swinging 60’s Couture

Quadrophenia never did go out of styles. With some of the most influential style icons emerging from an era when mods and rockers ruled and music was a way of life, Love Her Madly have developed a collection which could be defined as eternal. Combining the 1960s with modern quality fabrics and eye-catching design, and the brand prove that retro couture is an everlasting phenomenon.

Custom Fit Dancewear - Unflappable Vintage Charm

New to LondonEdge comes Custom Fit Dancewear, a northern vintage inspired brand created completely in the image of the 1920s showgirls. Established in the edgy and urban surroundings of Affleck’s Palace in the Northern Quarter of Manchester, Custom Fit Dancewear bring to life the dresses, footwear and accessories with a mix of sequins, beads and classic fibres to bring out your inner dance girl. It’s time to finger wave your locks, grab your dancing shoes and get your Charleston on with this range that cannot be classed as anything short of beautiful. We cannot wait to see more!

Bright & Beautiful – Timeless Revolution

Drawing on inspiration from the classic silhouettes of the swinging 60s and the chic 70s, B&B's AW15 collection is both fresh and quirky- and perfect for the party season! Using key jewel tones as the base colour palette and mixing them up with bold prints, this collection is bang on trend, and is perfect for you to make a statement in.

The next LondonEdge will run, fully loaded, from 6^th-8^th September 2015 at The Business Design Centre, Islington London N1. Register to visit LondonEdge at www.londonedge.com/visitors.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

What to do with Old Handbags

Did you ever get some time to look at your wardrobe? It is almost filled with your old and new clothes, photo albums, hair accessories, clutches, purses and handbags. There is a stash collection of old handbags. No doubt, these are the bags that are your love at some time. You did not even want to throw it out. It is best to utilize your old handbags for some other useful purposes. Do you know what to do with old handbags?  There are multiple uses of an old handbag. 

Most Influential Fashion Blogger

Photo: Louis Vuitton & Jeff Koons - Masters LV X KOONS

The most influential fashion blogger of the year award goes to... 

Wait a minute, did you think I was actually going to give you a specific name.  First of all, today is December 29, 2017.  According to my calendar, the year is not over.  It is not fair to determine or announce the "best of the year" if the year is not actually completed.  It is very possible that an amazing & very trendy author was planning on writing hundreds of spectacular (and very last minute) posts over the next two days.  Possibly that would catapult them into the lead to win this years title.

How do we judge the best fashion influencer?

Picking the top fashion influencer is almost as challenging as picking the most beautiful fashion blogger of the year.  Yes, it is very hard.

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, how can anyone be crowned "most beautiful".   Well, we use the law of averages.  The law of averages is a layman's term for a belief that the statistical distribution of outcomes among members of a small sample must reflect the distribution of outcomes across the population as a whole.  Therefore, if "I" determine someone is beautiful, it is likely that based on math many other people would also agree.  Truth be told, we conveniently use the law of averages because I am the only person voting... 

CureDiva Living Through Breast Cancer For Valentines Day

As Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching (just three weeks away!), time is running out to find the perfect date-night outfit and accessories that will make you feel sexy and beautiful for your man.

Valentine's Day itself is pretty cliché – champagne, flowers, lingerie and romance. But why not live it up and use it as an extra excuse to pamper and beautify yourself on a day designed just for love. However, the task of feeling sexy and beautiful may be a more difficult task for some. Breast cancer fighters go through countless treatments that may cause them to lose sight of their beauty, but they too deserve to take a day and feel just as beautiful and sexy as ever!


Enter CureDiva! CureDiva.com the first online solutions site for women coping with Breast Cancer, has an array of products safe for breast cancer patients that will help them feel both sexy and beautiful. From nail polish and beauty products to head scarves and lingerie, there are countless products for those at any stage of diagnosis that will help any woman feel like the sexy diva they are this Valentine’s Day.

Sexy Lingerie: This Courage Couture black lace tunic was designed to offer women who have uneven breasts or a history of breast surgery such as mastectomy or lumpectomy more choices. Designed be worn by any woman who is looking for supportive full cup coverage this sexy nightwear offers a pocket for a prosthesis or a breast enhancer wedge along with adjustable cleavage, back and shoulder straps. There is no reason a woman cannot look and feel beautiful when she needs full cup coverage, so this black lace tunic is perfect to slip into after a romantic Valentine’s Day meal.

Nail Polish: Water-based and non-toxic polish, Acquarella, hydrates the nail, helping to prevent nails from chipping, peeling and yellowing commonly associated with harsh conventional nail products. With no toxic smell, Acquarella is fast drying and doesn’t require a base or top coat. Coming in a wide variety of colors, Acquarella is perfect for brightening up your darkest moments or adding an extra pop of glamour for your romantic Valentine’s Day.

Blush Pink Cooling Necklace: Worried about going out to a fancy dinner and using the menu as a fan because your hot flashes are spiking? Cooling the back and sides of the neck is one of the best ways to quickly feel cool so placing these icy pearls on your neck instantly helps bring down your overall feeling of being overheated. Blush Pink Hot Girls Pearls bring elegance and romance to your Valentine’s Day attire. Simply freeze, wear, repeat! Freeze your pearls for 3-4 hours, then wear them to cool down.

Cable Knit Beret: When heading out in the chilly February for your date, it’s important to keep your head and ears warm. This soft and comfortable hat acts as a stylish accessory while keeping you warm whether you’re headed to dinner or out for a romantic stroll outside. Dress it up or keep it casual, this hat is perfect for Valentine’s Day and beyond!

Eye Lashes: Glam yourself for your romantic date night with gorgeous false eyelashes. The Queen of Mid Lashes gives you intense volume and length for a bold look. The lashes are reusable and come with adhesive and full instructions so you can use them time and time again.  

Learn more about CureDiva at their website.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Most Beautiful Fashion Blogger

Who is the most beautiful fashion blogger of 2017?  

We are not telling you who is the most beautiful blogger, but what we will tell you is that the above images are of Negin Mirsalehi.  She must be one of the contenders for the top honors.

Does beauty matter in terms of influence?

Men & women that are not so attractive can be excellent writers.  Writing is half the trick of creating an influencial fashion blog.  Being able to post attractive photography and stunning outfits is a key ingredient in the successful blog recipe.  Does seeing ugly people in clothing influence your buying decisions?  To be honest, I prefer to view pretty people.  That's why I removed the mirrors from my home.

Do you want to see ugly fashion bloggers or pretty ones?

Does the most beautiful fashion blogger equate to the most influential fashion blogger?  I am thinking that beauty, hard work, a great sense of style, all contribute to becoming the most influential fashion blogger of the year.  Negin Mirsalehi appears to have all the bases covered.  She gets our vote.

Most Influential Fashion Blogger

Photo: Louis Vuitton & Jeff Koons - Masters LV X KOONS

The most influential fashion blogger of the year award goes to... 

Wait a minute, did you think I was actually going to give you a specific name.  First of all, today is December 29, 2017.  According to my calendar, the year is not over.  It is not fair to determine or announce the "best of the year" if the year is not actually completed.  It is very possible that an amazing & very trendy author was planning on writing hundreds of spectacular (and very last minute) posts over the next two days.  Possibly that would catapult them into the lead to win this years title.

How do we judge the best fashion influencer?

Picking the top fashion influencer is almost as challenging as picking the most beautiful fashion blogger of the year.  Yes, it is very hard.

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, how can anyone be crowned "most beautiful".   Well, we use the law of averages.  The law of averages is a layman's term for a belief that the statistical distribution of outcomes among members of a small sample must reflect the distribution of outcomes across the population as a whole.  Therefore, if "I" determine someone is beautiful, it is likely that based on math many other people would also agree.  Truth be told, we conveniently use the law of averages because I am the only person voting... 

Most Influential Fashion Blogger

Photo: Louis Vuitton & Jeff Koons - Masters LV X KOONS

The most influential fashion blogger of the year award goes to... 

Wait a minute, did you think I was actually going to give you a specific name.  First of all, today is December 29, 2017.  According to my calendar, the year is not over.  It is not fair to determine or announce the "best of the year" if the year is not actually completed.  It is very possible that an amazing & very trendy author was planning on writing hundreds of spectacular (and very last minute) posts over the next two days.  Possibly that would catapult them into the lead to win this years title.

How do we judge the best fashion influencer?

Picking the top fashion influencer is almost as challenging as picking the most beautiful fashion blogger of the year.  Yes, it is very hard.

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, how can anyone be crowned "most beautiful".   Well, we use the law of averages.  The law of averages is a layman's term for a belief that the statistical distribution of outcomes among members of a small sample must reflect the distribution of outcomes across the population as a whole.  Therefore, if "I" determine someone is beautiful, it is likely that based on math many other people would also agree.  Truth be told, we conveniently use the law of averages because I am the only person voting... 

Most Influential Fashion Blogger

Photo: Louis Vuitton & Jeff Koons - Masters LV X KOONS

The most influential fashion blogger of the year award goes to... 

Wait a minute, did you think I was actually going to give you a specific name.  First of all, today is December 29, 2017.  According to my calendar, the year is not over.  It is not fair to determine or announce the "best of the year" if the year is not actually completed.  It is very possible that an amazing & very trendy author was planning on writing hundreds of spectacular (and very last minute) posts over the next two days.  Possibly that would catapult them into the lead to win this years title.

How do we judge the best fashion influencer?

Picking the top fashion influencer is almost as challenging as picking the most beautiful fashion blogger of the year.  Yes, it is very hard.

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, how can anyone be crowned "most beautiful".   Well, we use the law of averages.  The law of averages is a layman's term for a belief that the statistical distribution of outcomes among members of a small sample must reflect the distribution of outcomes across the population as a whole.  Therefore, if "I" determine someone is beautiful, it is likely that based on math many other people would also agree.  Truth be told, we conveniently use the law of averages because I am the only person voting... 

Sarees and Bollywood: A Bond that Never Breaks

Bollywood has a perennial connection and a deep bond with sarees. Bollywood song sequences and saris are known to inspire fashion trends in India. Sarees and new trends are pretty common. Sometimes sarees become very popular and famous post a movie. A specific style in which a heroine drapes her saree in song sequences is enough to make a new trend go viral. From the retro to 2016 Bollywood and sarees have been together walking hand in hand, but they still have to cover a long way together. Today we have easy access to beautiful anarkali suits, gowns and variety of designer salwar suits online. Yet sarees will never go out of fashion.

Mumtaz’s Evergreen Appeal & Saree

People went crazy to see Mumtaz in a stunning orange sari with a dazzling gold border in the song aaj kal tere mere pyar ke charche. She looked amazing in this hot and sexy saree. She looked truly ravishing in the really special style in which the saree was draped without the usual pleats. Mumtaz’s iconic look at once went viral and became an instant hit among the adventurous youth. The entire nation became delirious to see Mumtaz dance to the beat of fascinating desi music in this super-hot saree.

Madhuri’s Sex Appeal & Saree

Madhuri Dixit came in the late 80’s and 90’s. She became the public’s hot favorite instantaneously. She set the screen on fire, when she wore an unusually eye-catching purple saree in the movie Hum Aapke Hain Kaun. Her incredibly ravishing look in the song sequence didi tera dewar diwana made her a hot star overnight.  The saree caught the fancy of million other women and its replicas sold over the country like hot cakes.

Sridevi’s Sizzling Hot Looks & Sarees

Saree scenes and song sequences have become memorable and integral parts of Hindi films. People have always talked about and not only idolized heroines, but followed their sense of dressing up and their style. No one can ever forget Sridevi looking sizzling hot in a blue one color chiffon saree in Mr. India. She stole the hearts of millions, while dancing in this sequence with Anil Kapoor.

The New Generation Hot & Sexy Heroines & Sarees

The leading ladies of Hindi film industry have always had a soft corner for sarees. They carried themselves really with grace and elegance in sarees. The onscreen beauties inspired the entire female population to wear sarees for generations right from the times of the gorgeous Waheeda Rahman to our very own super sexy and mind-blowingly beautiful Katrina Kaif. Sarees have an unbreakable bond with Indian movies.

Kajol: Forever Beautiful in Designer Chiffons

Kajol is one heroine, who has looked absolutely amazing in sarees. She portrayed the image and role of a modern Indian woman by playing basketball in a saree. She symbolized the grit and determination of the modern Indian woman, who are feminine to the power infinity, but at the same time adept at everything. No one could ever forget Kajol in the red chiffon saree in the song tum paas aaye. Kajol ushered in the era of designer chiffon sarees by wearing them and looking super sexy in Kabhi khushi kabhi gham.

Katrina Kaif: Drop-dead Gorgeous in Sarees

In the year 2008, when the movie Singh is King released everyone had only one topic to discuss and that was how incredibly beautiful Katrina Kaif was looking in the now famous red and black sheer net saree in the song teri ore. Needless to mention Katrina Kaif never looked so stunning and gorgeous before. Since this movie became an instant hit, Katrina’s saree became famous and its replicas got sold in no time. Surprisingly it is still in demand in the year 2016 with many reputed online sites selling celebrity sarees having it in their collection.

Priyanka Chopra: The Oomph Factor

Priyanka Chopra got instant fan following as soon as her movie Dostana released. She looked hot and ravishing in a gorgeous beige gold saree and she had teamed it with a bikini blouse. The entire get-up was an instantaneous hit. The saree did wonders to her beautifully maintained slender frame and accentuated her assets. Priyanka became a sensation overnight with her stunning looks. This saree thereafter has been the inspiration behind many such sarees.

Deepika Padukone: The Ultimate Style Icon

Deepika Padukone won everyone’s heart by flaunting the super-gorgeous black and pink saree in Yeh jawani hai diwani. She had worn another electrifying blue saree with a wonderful copper-gold border. This saree became a rage with the young girls all over India. Her sarees became hot favorites and she became a sex symbol overnight. Recently Deepika was in news because of the beautiful Kerala cottons she had worn in the movie Chennai Express. She was also instrumental in popularizing the now famous half saree. Deepika, the sultry siren has carried herself gracefully in sarees. She is today the ultimate style statement.

Sarees would always have a special place in Bollywood movies and undoubtedly, in the hearts of Indian women across the world.

This article was written for Apparel Search by guest author Sujain Thomas.

Author bio: Sujain Thomas is an upcoming fashion designer, who specializes in Bollywood style sarees. She recommends her line of chiffon sarees also, available in reputed online stores such as Jomso.com.

Thank you for taking the time to read this fashion blog post. If you have comments about this subject, you are welcome to use the comments section for further discussion.

Giving is Beautiful Soma Bra Donation

Earlier this week Soma announced its next Giving is Beautiful™ Soma Bra Donation.  The nationwide charitable initiative to collect bras for women who have been affected by domestic violence is said to be the largest of its kind.  With more than 885,000 bras collected to date, the scale and scope of the project is a testament to the brand and the Soma customer’s dedication to making a difference in women's lives.  Now through February 4th, the company will accept both new and gently worn bras at all Soma boutiques across the country as well as monetary donations at the register and at www.soma.com.

“Our passion and commitment to this initiative has never been stronger,” states Laurie Van Brunt, Soma president. “What started as a grass roots effort in a few local boutiques has grown to become a brand-wide and nationwide initiative spanning more than 281 Soma boutiques and outlets. Our boutiques and customers enthusiastically contribute their time, money and bras to help women in need restore their lives. It’s our ultimate goal that no woman has to choose between buying a bra and putting food on the table.”

To help raise awareness about domestic violence, Soma will once again partner with the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV). The NNEDV is the leading voice for survivors of domestic violence. Representing over 2,000 shelter programs across 56 state and territory coalitions throughout the United States, the NNEDV continues to be a vital partner to help spread the word and make a difference in women's lives.

The Giving is Beautiful Soma Bra Donation initiative is national in scope but local in nature — directly impacting communities where the bras are donated. Each of Soma’s 281 boutiques and outlets will work with its community’s women's shelter to help local women in need. First launched in July 2010, this marks the tenth biannual Soma Bra Donation initiative. To date, Soma has collected more than 885,000 bras to help provide for the more than 1.3 million victims who stay in domestic violence shelters each year.

"Soma is partnering their boutiques with local domestic violence shelters to make a real difference in the lives of domestic violence victims, who often arrive at a shelter with nothing, says Kim Gandy, President and CEO of the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV).  “New and nearly new bras are less frequently donated than other clothing items, so shelters are especially grateful to receive new bras for the women who seek safety there.  Through this essential campaign, Soma is helping to raise awareness in local communities, raise critically needed funds, and help victims rebuild their lives."

 “Thanks to our partnership with the National Network to End Domestic Violence, new and gently worn bras are distributed to domestic violence shelters in our customers’ local communities. Our goal is to reach a million bras collected, because that translates to a million women feeling confident and beautiful, from the inside out,” says Van Brunt. “And every woman deserves to feel that way.”

To help reach the brand’s goal of one million bras collected, Soma will continue to utilize a unique, shareable hashtag, #OneMillionBras in their marketing and social platforms during the donation time period, and are asking customers across the country to help spread the word about this worthy cause by tagging @SomaIntimates. The brand will also have a donation landing page, www.soma.com/givebras allowing visitors to read a number of touching stories about how our 885,000 donated bras have changed women’s lives across the country, plus offer information about the NNEDV, how to donate bras, and where to find Soma boutiques nationwide. 

About Soma:

Soma, a division of Chico’s FAS, Inc. (NYSE: CHS), offers beautiful and sensual lingerie, loungewear and beauty products. Home of the warmest personal service, Soma embraces women with luxuriously soft fabrics, innovative fashion and an always perfect fit in bra sizes 32A-44G. As of January 8^th, Soma will operate 281 boutiques and outlets across the country as well as a website at www.soma.com.

About NNEDV:

NNEDV, a nonprofit charitable organization, is the leading voice for domestic violence victims and their advocates.  NNEDV members include all 56 of the state and territorial coalitions against domestic violence, which have over 2,000 local programs. NNEDV has been a premiere national organization advancing the movement against domestic violence for over 20 years, having led efforts to pass the landmark Violence Against Women Act of 1994 and to reauthorize and strengthen countless laws and regulations to increase safety and end violence.  To learn more about NNEDV, please visit www.nnedv.org.

You may also want to read the living beyond breast cancer article previously posted on our blog.  You should also read the give a smile news about Chico's donating to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.

Thank you for taking the time to read our bra blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative.

Learn about other fashion companies supporting charity here on our blog.

If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Ugly Fashion Bloggers

Beautiful fashion bloggers appear to have more of an influence than ugly fashion bloggers.  Is that a true of false statement?  Well, let's take a look at some of the top style blog websites of 2017.  In my opinion, these top fashion influence's are darn pretty to say the least.

Does Appearance Matter?  Can't hurt.

Chiara Ferragni, The Blonde Salad.   Pretty sure that if you look like Barbie, you will get some good attention.  The fantastic sense of style and writing can't hurt either.

Kristina Bazan, Kayture. - a multifaceted talent. From international it girl to author and singer, she is widely considered as one of the most famous digital influencers in the world.  Correct me if I am wrong, but she is also striking in appearance.

Julia Engel, Gal Meets Glam. Gal Meets Glam is a source of inspiration that covers everything from fashion and beauty to home and travel. Every day you can expect Julia to capture and share what’s inspiring her.  She started the blog in 2011 and it has grown tremendously.  A pure & classic beauty that looks astonishing in nearly any type of clothing category.

Retailer Rigby & Peller Reveals American Women’s Attitudes Toward Lingerie

Heritage UK lingerie retailer Rigby & Peller released today the findings of their first ever US poll, modeled after their groundbreaking survey conducted in the UK earlier this year. Surveying 2,000 US women ages 18+ on their lingerie buying, styling and wearing habits, Rigby & Peller found that US women prioritize comfort above all else. While almost 80% of US respondents have at least one bra that they find 100% comfortable, these women don’t find their comfortable bras to be beautiful.

Almost 70% of US respondents admitted to regularly wearing the same bra every day. Moreover, 30% of the women surveyed own bras they’ve been wearing for over 10 years, while 5% admitted to owning at least one bra that was over 20 years old.

The poll results also revealed contemporary American women’s lingerie and bra preferences. US respondents prefer a more natural look when it comes to their foundation pieces. With 84% of respondents opting for a flattering, contained silhouette, and 62% saying they feel most attractive in a well-fitting bra versus a more revealing cut.

On a macro-level, the study showed that US women need more knowledge about the importance of regularly rotating bras, replacing over-worn styles and getting properly fit for a bra that is both comfortable and beautiful. Almost 70% of respondents would welcome expert advice to help build their underwear collection with pieces that fit well and build confidence.

“Since launching in the US last year, Rigby & Peller has found that US women are hungry for knowledge and expertise when it comes to finding a bra that fits well, but also suits their lifestyle needs,” explains CEO of Rigby & Peller US, Ginny Gerard. “While it’s incredible to see how similar the findings are between US and UK women, our research further shows that a lot of US women see lingerie shopping as a necessary evil, and they end up buying lingerie that doesn’t suit them properly. American women have more options than ever for purchasing lingerie, including a proliferation of direct-to-consumer online lingerie brands, but these options lack the expert guidance that can put women in bras that are comfortable, beautiful and nothing short of life-changing. Lingerie shopping is a luxury and bespoke experience at Rigby & Peller stores worldwide.  Our mission is to bring romance, excitement and joy to bra shopping in the US.”

View the R&P Lingerie Survey Fact Sheet.

About Rigby & Peller:
 
Throughout its 75 years, Rigby & Peller has evolved into one of the most talked about global lingerie brands and has dressed some of the world’s most iconic women, from rock royalty to crowned heads. Offering carefully curated collections of exquisitely-made lingerie, their boutiques create a luxurious and reassuring atmosphere for style and fit appointments, which are carried out by highly trained expert lingerie stylists. Rigby & Peller’s aim is that each client leaves their boutique feeling confident and beautiful; like the very best version of themselves. Rigby & Peller has US stores in New York, Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, Washington DC and other major cities. For more info visit rigbyandpeller.com.

Survey conducted on www.onepoll.com, July 2016. Total number of respondents – 2,000 US women aged 18+.

Thank you for taking the time to read this intimate apparel blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Alessandra Ambrosio Beautiful as her Unicorn

Alessandra Ambrosio was photographed wearing Junk Food over the weekend! The sexy supermodel celebrated Mother's Day in her Unicorn Rainbow Tank ($20, www.junkfoodclothing.com). 

Here is a closer look at the t-shirt (on a different; beautiful model)

The unicorn is a legendary and beautiful animal that has been described since antiquity as a beast with a large, pointed, spiraling horn projecting from its forehead. The unicorn was depicted in ancient seals of the Indus Valley Civilization and was mentioned by the ancient Greeks in accounts of natural history by various writers.  I would argue that Alessandra Ambrosio is so beautiful, she could be thought of as a mythical character as well.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Breathe Beautifully Bra Collection by Soma

Soma is pleased to announce the launch of their new Breathe Beautifully Bra Collection, with breakthrough airflow technology that breathes and supports. These bras are brilliantly engineered to provide support and concealment while being breathable and wickable.

 “These bras keep you beautifully cool! After years of extensive customer research, I am thrilled to introduce this innovative and supportive bra collection. I know it will change women’s lives for the beautiful,” says Laurie Van Brunt, Soma President.

Highlights of the Breathe Beautifully Collection include:

Breathable contour underwire cups with airflow technology

·         56% more airflow*
·         Breathable and wickable with exclusive no show concealment
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*In an independent test against five national brands’ bras of similar support and cup construction, Breathe Beautifully proved to allow on average 56% more airflow.

Soma knows that Beautiful Begins Underneath®. Home of the warmest personal service, Soma embraces women with luxuriously soft fabrics, innovative fashion, and an always perfect fit. Each Soma associate is a trained Bra Fit Expert, able to make women look and feel beautiful in a boutique environment. Soma carries 41 bra sizes from 32A-44G.

About Soma Intimates (Soma):

The Soma brand, which began operations in 2004, offers beautiful and sensual lingerie, loungewear and beauty products.

Soma Intimates currently operates over 250 boutiques. Soma publishes its own catalog coinciding with key shopping periods and sells direct-to-consumer at www.soma.com.

You may also want to visit our bra blog page for additional reading material on this subject.

It would be a good idea for you to also read our enhancing shape bras by Soma article.

Costume Design in Film Magic

"What a costume designer does is a cross between magic and camouflage." — Edith Head

Transforming characters and transcending time. In observance of Fashion Week events around the globe, Fandor is celebrating the indispensable role of costume design in film.

Fashion, film, and costume design have compelling ties.

MY KINGDOM (2011)
Dir. Gao Xiaosong | 99 minutes

A story of honor, love and revenge set against the backdrop of the Chinese opera during its heyday in 1920s Shanghai, MY KINGDOM centers on two sworn brothers and their quest to regain their master’s honor. After years spent training in martial arts, Guan Yilong (Wu Chun) and Meng Erkui (Han Geng) pursue revenge and quickly succeed, establishing themselves as the newest sensations of the Shanghai opera scene. They experience fame and love with a beautiful actress, Xi Mulan (Barbie Hsu), but soon their collective pasts catch up with them and all three are tangled in a complex web of love, lust, deceit and betrayal.
http://www.fandor.com/films/my_kingdom

HIPSTERS (2008)

Dir. Valery Todorovsky | 132 minutes

Moscow 1955. Stalin has been dead two years, but not even Khrushchev's thaw can prevent Komsomol shock troops from hounding hipsters (stilyagi), fans of American jazz, culture and fashion. The student Mels, a Komsomol member, meets Polya, a hipster, while conducting a raid on a hipster hangout. Mels falls in love with Polya while his Communist comrade harbors romantic feelings for him. Mels ingratiates himself into Polya's group of hipsters who meet up on "Broadway" (Gorky/Tverskaya Street), and begins adopting their extreme fashion and lifestyle. Soon, Mels is a hit on the dance floor and starts learning to play the saxophone. He is expelled from college, changes his name to Mel and has the beautiful Polya for a girlfriend. With delightful retro-musical scenes and cinematography parodying the style of Soviet realism, HIPSTERS is a lush rebel-with-a-cause romance full of intricately choreographed toe-tapping numbers, and plenty of satirical social commentary.

http://www.fandor.com/films/hipsters

TECHNICOLOR FASHION PARADE (1927)



These two-color Technicolor fashion shots were copied from nitrate film many years ago without the benefit of later techniques that minimize blemishes. Even heavily abraded, they're of interest as a portrait of couture in 1927, as a document of color cinematography when the process was still novel and because many of the models were successful Hollywood actresses. The film was found and copied by Murray Glass, one of the best American friends of early cinema. Music by Frederick Hodges.
http://www.fandor.com/films/technicolor_fashion_parade

CHASING BEAUTY (2008)

Dir. Brent Huff | 84 minutes

A rare glimpse into the dark side of modeling, CHASING BEAUTY speaks with supermodels, photographers, agents and the like in a quest to answer one of the industry's most complex questions: What is beauty and is it worth the cost? Each year, thousands of hopefuls begin the pursuit of their modeling dreams, but how many actually succeed, and how long does success last? For many who try, there is no shortage of collateral damage along the way. Beauty is a billion dollar business, but consumers aren't the only ones paying the price.

http://www.fandor.com/films/chasing_beauty

THE DRAUGHTSMAN'S CONTRACT (1982)
Dir. Peter Greenaway | 107 minutes



Set in a richly exaggerated 17th-century England, Peter Greenaway’s sumptuous and sensuously charged brainteaser catapulted him to the forefront of international art cinema. Adorned with intricate wordplay, extravagant costumes and opulent photography, Greenaway’s first narrative feature weaves a labyrinthine mystery around the maxim “draw what you see, not what you know.” An aristocratic wife (Janet Suzman) commissions a young, cocksure draughtsman (Anthony Higgins) to sketch her husband’s property while he is away in exchange for a fee, room and board and one sexual favor for each of the twelve drawings. As the draughtsman becomes more entrenched in the devious schemings in this seemingly idyllic country home, curious details emerge in his drawings that may reveal a murder. Bolstered by a majestic score by then-newcomer Michael Nyman and stunning cinematography by Curtis Clark that suggests Greenaway has the elements at his beck and call, THE DRAUGHTSMAN’S CONTRACT is a luscious cinematic banquet for eye, ear and mind.
http://www.fandor.com/films/the_draughtsmans_contract

THE TEMPEST (1979)

Dir. Derek Jarman | 95 minutes

THE TEMPEST, the last of William Shakespeare's great plays, was adapted for the screen for the first time by Derek Jarman in 1979. Among the most visionary of modern film artists, Jarman, who died of AIDS in 1994 at age 52, was one of the first directors (outside the pornography circuit) to present openly gay material in feature-length films. Shot on location at the ancient and ghostly Stoneleigh Abbey, THE TEMPEST tells the story of Prospero the magician, who lives with his nubile daughter on an enchanted island and punishes his enemies when they are shipwrecked there. It's a study of sexual and political power in the guise of a fairy tale. Jarman presents Shakespeare's intricate comedy of magic and revenge in a form that is at once faithful to the spirit of the play and an original and dazzling spectacle mixing Hollywood pastiche, high camp, and gothic horror. His film recalls the innocent homoeroticism of Pier Paolo Pasolini's versions of classics, while its lush sense of décor and color is worthy of Vincente Minnelli. The film's master stroke is the finale, a wedding feast designed and choreographed as as full scale production number, with the veteran black comedy musical star Elisabeth Welch wafting her way through a chorus of hunky sailors as she belts out "Stormy Weather." It's one of the great scenes in British cinema.

http://www.fandor.com/films/the_tempest

EXTERIOR NIGHT (1993)
Dir. Mark Rappaport | 36 minutes



Using extensive rear projection to remarkable effect (actors, in color, against black and white backgrounds and all photographed in high definition), Mark Rappaport evocatively plays with the themes of noir while contemporizing the stakes involved. In EXTERIOR NIGHT, there is no past. There is no present. There is only the inevitable now.
http://www.fandor.com/films/exterior_night

I, THE WORST OF ALL (1990)

Dir. Maria Luisa Bemberg | 108 minutes

Assumpta Serna stars as the brilliant and beautiful poet Sister Juana Ines de la Cruz in this magnificent portrayal of 17th Century Mexico. In order to pursue her love of writing, Juana enters the convent and gains international renown. When the Inquisition comes, the local Vicereine (Dominique Sanda) becomes Juana's protectress and erotic muse, and soon begins a thrilling romance of startling passion and intensity.

http://www.fandor.com/films/i_the_worst_of_all

CAREFUL (1992)
Dir. Guy Maddin | 99 minutes



Guy Maddin’s early masterpiece takes place in a 19th-century Alpine village where the wary residents (adult, child and animal!) must speak softly and tread lightly lest they cause an avalanche. But sexual frenzies teem in this world of repression, setting off incestuous love triangles and quadrangles with deadly consequences. Bathed in lurid, luminescent tints, CAREFUL resembles a vintage melodrama from another planet, something that could only emerge from the singular mind of Maddin.
http://www.fandor.com/films/careful

THE PIANO TUNER OF EARTHQUAKES (2005)

Dir. Stephen Quay & Timothy Quay | 95 minutes

THE PIANO TUNER OF EARTHQUAKES is the breathtakingly beautiful and long-awaited second feature from Stephen and Timothy Quay. On the eve of her wedding, the beautiful opera singer Malvina is mysteriously killed and abducted by a malevolent Dr. Droz. Felisberto, an innocent piano tuner, is summoned to Droz's secluded villa to service his strange musical automatons. Little by little, Felisberto learns of the doctor's plans to stage a "diabolical opera" and of Malvina's fate. He secretly conspires to rescue her, only to become trapped himself in the web of Droz's perverse universe.

http://www.fandor.com/films/the_piano_tuner_of_earthquakes

THE 10TH VICTIM (1965)
Dir. Elio Petri | 92 minutes



It's the 21st century and society's lust for violence is satisfied by the "Big Hunt," an international game of legalized murder. But when the sport's two top assassins (Marcello Mastroianni and Ursula Andress) are pitted against each other, they find that love is the most dangerous game of all. As the world watches, the hunt is on. Who will become THE 10TH VICTIM?
http://www.fandor.com/films/the_10th_victim

FIVE DOLLS FOR AN AUGUST MOON (1970)

Dir. Mario Bava | 81 minutes

FIVE DOLLS FOR AN AUGUST MOON is Mario Bava's deliriously mod spin on an Agatha Christie-style whodunit. Bava was so closely associated with the horror genre that this twisting mystery was never released in the U.S. but it is deliciously entertaining all the same. A space age island retreat is visited by a group of friends and business associates, one of whom is a scientist who has invented a revolutionary chemical process, and is fending off various offers to buy it. Soon the vacationers start dying, and the survivors begin to wonder who has the most to gain from these murders most foul. Anything but a drawing room mystery, Bava's erotic thriller is enlivened by its psychedelic set design, a hip score by Piero Umiliani and a swinging performance by giallo goddess Edwige Fenech. 

http://www.fandor.com/films/five_dolls_for_an_august_moon

EVE (1962)
Dir. Joseph Losey | 103 minutes



Welsh writer Tyvian Jones (Stanley Baker) seems to have it all, 1960s-style: an international bestseller, an apartment in Rome, a gorgeous fiancée in Virna Lisi. But he's bitter anyway. He meets his existential match in ennui in the mod seductress Eve, played by Jeanne Moreau, who was never more cynical or iconic. Decked out in pointy pumps and heavy eyeliner, listening to Billie Holiday on scratch LPs (intermingled with an evocative score by the legendary Michel Legrand) as she counts lire and smokes endless packs of cigarettes in strangers' bedrooms, she is the epitome of frayed glamor. An emotional tyrant, Eve's cruelly casual maneuvering forces Baker to confront his past and his weaknesses as a man and an artist. Director Joseph Losey disowned this "producers' version" of his film, fifteen minutes shorter than his own cut. That longer version survives in somewhat rougher condition, preserved by the British Film Institute from a Swedish/Finnish release print (with burned-in subtitles).
http://www.fandor.com/films/eva

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SAINT MATTHEW (1965)

Dir. Pier Paolo Pasolini | 136 minutes

The birth, life, teachings and death on the cross of Jesus Christ presented almost as a cinéma-vérité documentary. Pasolini's second feature seemed a strange choice for such a revolutionary director, but it is an attempt to take Christ out of the opulent church and present him as an outcast Italian peasant. Applying Neo-Realist methods, the director shot in Calabria, using the expressive faces of non-professionals including that of his mother as the Virgin Mary. THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO SAINT MATTHEW is considered the greatest screen version of the "greatest story ever told" and this freshly remastered version brings the film to life in a away that has never been seen before. Nominated for Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design and Best Music at the 1967 Academy Awards®. 

http://www.fandor.com/films/the_gospel_according_to_saint_matthew

A THROW OF DICE (1929)
Dir. Franz Osten | 76 minutes



A lavish silent super-production comprising 10,000 extras, a thousand horses and scores of elephants, A THROW OF DICE is the climax of German film pioneer Franz Osten's richly cinematic sojourn in India. In this "fairy tale for adults" (BBC) inspired by the ancient Sanskrit epic poem THE MAHABHARATA, royal cousins and rulers of adjoining kingdoms King Sohat (producer/star Himansu Rai) and King Rajit (Charu Roy) share a reckless passion for gambling, the perilous jungle tiger hunt and the beautiful maiden Sunita (Seeta Devi). After a tiger nearly claims Rajit's life, Sunita nurses the handsome young king back to health and becomes his bride. Knowing that the only thing stronger than love in Rajit's heart is a compulsive fascination with games of chance, jealous Sohat challenges his cousin to a winner-take-all contest where the stakes are freedom, marriage and life itself. "Lovingly restored" (The Guardian UK) by the British Film Institute to a level of ravishing spectacle and splendor unseen since its debut in 1929, this "immaculately dressed and beautifully shot" (Times of London) masterpiece of the late silent period is complemented by a "stirring" (Guardian) and "brilliantly evocative new score" (BBC) composed by Nitin Sawhney.
http://www.fandor.com/films/a_throw_of_dice

METROPOLIS (1927)

Dir. Fritz Lang | 148 minutes

Incorporating more than twenty-five minutes of newly discovered footage, this 2010 restoration of METROPOLIS is the definitive edition of Fritz Lang’s science fiction masterpiece. Backed by a new recording of Gottfried Huppertz’s 1927 score, the film’s dazzling visual design and special effects are more striking than ever. And the integration of scenes and subplots long considered lost endows METROPOLIS with even greater tension and emotional resonance, as it dramatizes the conflict between wealthy über-capitalists and rebellious subterranean laborers, orchestrated by a diabolical scientist capable of destroying them both.

http://www.fandor.com/films/metropolis

INTOLERANCE (1916)
Dir. D.W. Griffith | 198 minutes



Four separate stories (the fall of Babylon, the death of Christ, the massacre of the Huguenots and a then-contemporary early 20th Century drama) are interwoven, building with enormous energy to a thrilling chase and finale. Through the juxtaposition of these well-known sagas, D.W. Griffith joyously makes clear his markedly deterministic view of history, namely that the suffering of innocents makes possible the salvation of the current generation, symbolized by the boy in the modern love story.
http://www.fandor.com/films/intolerance

TRANSFORMATION BY HATS (1895)

Dir. Auguste Lumière and Louis Lumière | 1 minute

The Lumières stay inside the studio for this delightful portrait of a quick-change artist. Our man fleshes out six distinct costumes in under a minute: from affable ticket-taker to haughty sea captain, long-nosed blowhard to assured financier. Usually noted for their documentary subjects, here the Lumière brothers borrow from the vaudeville tradition.

http://www.fandor.com/films/transformation_by_hats

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