Madmen’s Peggy and Joan

While we adore the Harris style and beauty, we think Peggy’s ‘ugly betty’ character is underrated – the once timid girl has toughened and the don’t-mess-with-me lady is gradually emerging as the butterfly we were all waiting for!

We’re not trying to get a cat fight going and it’s not about who’s got better what-nots, we’re taking a good look at the lingerie that make those outfits look so wonderfully wonderful. We’re talking well-fitting bras and knickers that give you Joan and Peggy’s look, and the shapewear that will help create those famous curves, whoever you decide you want to be!

Madmen’s Joan Harris

A Joan-style bust needs support – and unless you are a creature of gravity-defying awesomeness, an accentuated bust line a la Madmen is likely to need more than just any old bra. Those hoping for the pointy boobed look can take a look at What Katie Did‘s gorgeous Harlow Bra (up to an F cup) and Made by Niki’s Sheer Wireless Bra (up to a FF cup). Those with dimensions above an F cup can go for a good full-cup bra, which will look fabulous under a tight-fitting jumper or dress. We love Rigby&Peller’s Vintage Full Cup Bra and their Alondra Full Cup in black – both go up to a fabulous H cup and will give you the shape you’re looking for. If you’re a fan of lower-cut tops and like to reveal a little more, Rigby&Peller also do Plunge versions of the Vintage and Alondra style.

Once you’ve established your favourite style of bra, it’s on to shapewear – the trick to the Joan Harris look is to create sculpted curves that highlight waist, bust and bottom (without being tarty). Since Knickers started five years ago, a lot has happened to shapewear – it is no longer a garment you need to hide, in fact my recent experience with new label Mission Control makes me want to run around showing everyone what great knickers I’m wearing! I don’t, but you get my point. For larger cup ladies, it’s advisable to go for ‘bra-less’ shapewear; shapewear brands rarely cater for anything over an E cup and that’s if you’re lucky. Maidenform’s Ultimate Waistnipper is a firm favourite for doing what it says it will – I’ve found it even gives my bust a wee bit of extra oomph in the right direction, leaving it desirably Madmen perky. We also love Mission Control for their range in sexy shapewear knickers – their Boudoir Contour Knickers are perfect for that smooth bottom feel and look, and if you’re looking for a derrière and waist smoother in one, try their Alias Sculpting Knickers. Miraclesuit are also at the top of our list for their range in control wear, including high waist slips and thigh slimmers.

To finish off the look, why not go for stockings and a girdle? Velda Lauder’s gorgeously seductive Mesh Panty Girdle is one of our favourites with its sexy soft ruffles and practical, metal suspender clasps. We also love the Underbust Girdle by What Katie Did.

We’re thinking Joan Harris would work overtime to buy herself the best stockings and we’re loving the authentic 50s style Tentation Stockings by Cervin.

(Oh, and while it might not be lingerie, we adore Joan’s pen necklace – currently at the top of the wishlist is this 1928 gold pen necklace!)

Peggy Olson’s Style

Peggy Olson’s look is a cuter, girlier image than that of Joan Harris: working with a smaller frame is a different ball game, though no less coveted. Those with Peggy proportions are less restricted in terms of bra choice and the distinctive, cone-shaped bra is perfect for those hoping to get the look. If you want to splash out, Rigby&Peller’s Platinum Retro Bra is a winner and those looking to boost their profile will love the additional padding. Kiss Me Deadly’s Longline Jolie Bra (up to DD cup) will give the desired effect when worn under a cute office dress and if you’re a fan of stockings, go for the ever popular Vargas Dress, which supports your bust and gives you that streamlined look. Want to go with your own bra? Go for a Kiss Me Deadly roll on girdle – I can vouch for its functional sexiness!

Peggy might be less curvy than Joan, but shapewear will still be of benefit, to accentuate and celebrate femininity. Again, Maidenform comes out as one of the favourites for shapewear – whether you’re trying to conceal, highlight or both! Anything that nips in at the waist will give the bust and bottom an opportunity to shine and will naturally emphasise your middle. If restriction on bra sizing is not as much of an issue, why not go for a functional yet sexy all-in-one? We’re thinking along the lines of a Corselette that will nip, tuck and support and be sexy.

Peggy’s bright mind suggests that an evening worth remembering is going to have to be accompanied by a great pair of stockings – her day to day wear might involve sensible, durable legwear, but take her on a night out and we reckon she’ll go for Blush nylons!

Karen reviews Lilah by La Lilouche

Get it at: Etsy
Price: Lilah Bra $99/£65 Lilah Knickers $83/ £55
Sizing: Bra 32-38 B/C Knickers S M L

When Alison asked me to try the Lilah bra and knickers set from La Lilouche I was enthusiastic (she always has the most gorgeous underwear herself!) but I wasn’t prepared for just how lovely the set would be. But more than that – the effect was amazing. First of all, the all-important fit and comfort of the bra: faultless. It gives me a fantastic shape and just seems to have livened up my boobs, somehow – it’s as if they’ve been dozing for a while and have just been woken up by this fabulous bra (as opposed to the kiss of a handsome prince)! The soft satin ruched straps are broad enough to give supreme comfort and leave no mark when the bra’s removed, and the lace cups are lined so there’s no scratchy, itchy feel that some lace bras cause. It’s one of those bras that is so comfy that you forget you’re wearing it – until you catch a tantalising glimpse of the beautiful pink French lace. I am so taken with the look of the bra that I keep rushing off to the bathroom to whip up my blouse for another look. It’s just gorgeous. The Swarovski crystals on the darling little handmade bow at the front are a genius addition – this bra is meant to be seen, it’s a sin to cover it up!

The knickers, like the bra, are super comfy. But how can something so incredibly sexy also be so very, very comfortable and easy to wear? It’s the sheer softness of the lace and the beautiful satin low-slung waistband that sits everso lightly on your hips without digging in – so there’s no bulge over the top, no matter how fleshy you are in that area. There’s the cheekiest little peephole at the back, with, like the bra, an adorable little silk satin bow adorned with Swarovski crystals, and the bow is repeated at the front too so you look gorgeous, whichever way you turn!

This set has swiftly become such a favourite of mine that I’m in a huff when it’s in the wash. But already it’s shown that it’s just as gorgeous now, after multiple washes, as the first time I wore it.

For more La Lilouche

Check out La Lilouche at their online store – and if you love hosiery, check their gorgeous, new collection of embellished tights.

And if you want even more, you can read Alison’s review of La Lilouche Ophelia playsuit here!

More Than Meets The Eye

Taschen’s passion for the more than occasional bit of naked skin isn’t an indication for a need to expose tasteless porn, rather it is a celebration of cult photography, art – and a little open-mindedness! Not so long ago I was delighted to receive the Gil Elvgren Taschen Pin Up book as a gift: hailed as ‘the best pin-up artist in the history of American illustration’, Elvgren’s fascinating and exciting illustrations go much further than what initially meets the eye. Playful innuendos, stories, fashion and of course lingerie all contribute to making these some of the most adorably mesmerising pictures.

Dressing Up

For those who love to dress up and pose, the recent increase in exposure of the pin-up trend will have been welcomed with open arms. We love to see pages like Rebel Pin Up with their daily dose of pin-up, submitted by those with a passion for dressing up. For those who love the images but have never had the courage or resources to hand, now is your chance to seize the opportunity to shine!

How To Do Pin Up

Contrary to belief, dressing for pin up isn’t all about finding the sexiest or most revealing lingerie. In fact, it’s much more about confidence, fun and a bit of cheekiness! Often it’s the most alluring images that show the least amount – our imaginations do the rest.
Naturally the grass is always greener on the other side: while today’s society has a tendency to promote a more androgynous figure, the iconic pin-up figure is generally of the more voluptuous variety. The latter day obsession with airbrushing out curves appears to have been the reverse in the days of Elvgren, who was far more likely to favour brushing in additional curves – pictures can be made ‘perfect’ whatever the trend. My point is: don’t worry about what you don’t have, go with what you’ve got and feel good about yourself – loving yourself is the key to looking fabulous!

What To Wear?

In the ‘good old days’ stockings weren’t just something you wore to flirt with your beau, however they still had that je ne sais quoi, and the cheeky glimpse of the top of said hosiery was certainly part of a pin-up’s allure. I remember way back trying to find ‘nylon stockings’ and ‘retro lingerie’ with my newly acquired internet skills (yes, that long ago); as I waded my way through some rather unsavoury items, both online and in second hand shops, I only ever came across items that were way out of my price range and that needed some serious attention. Luckily we now live in a marvellous world where labels and stores such as Kiss Me Deadly, What Katie Did, Lulu and Lush and
For Luna fulfil our need for adorable, retro-style lingerie, hosiery and swimwear.

For the rest you just need your imagination, and by that I don’t mean to sound rude: however what is our favourite pin-up might not be yours! Force yourself to be something you’re not and, unless you’re blessed with supermodel adaptability, you’re not going to feel comfortable. Find your fave and have a look through your wardrobe, you’ll be surprised what you can find and even adapt for your chosen pin-up look! And if you need more inspiration, check out Gil Elvgren’s Taschen Pin Up Book!

Where To Buy!

For those who need help finding retro-style lingerie and accessories, here are our online favourites for the pin up look:

Kiss Me Deadly (for retro-style shapewear and French-manufactured nylon and silk stockings)
FairyGothMother/Lulu and Lush (for corsets and clothing)
Modern Courtesan@Glam Am (for tasteful costumes)
Pandora’s Choice (for retro-style lingerie, girdles and knickers)
Stop Staring (Fabulous Dresses and outfits)
What Katie Did (for bullet bras, corsets, bloomers and frilly knickers)
Ayten Gasson (for glamorously cute, silk teddies and nightdresses)
Funn Hosiery@Last (for a colourful selection of gorgeous and originally-manufactured silk, wool and cotton stockings)
For Luna (Fabulous, retro-style swimwear)

Each season The Lake and Stars produce yet another fabulously contemporary and innovative collection, and their current collection is another stunner. Their signature clasps, straps and ‘ribbon’ designs are instantly recognisable, worn by A-list celebrities both on and off screen, and enjoyed by anyone who has a penchant for lingerie. Our only gripe is that UK stockists of The Lake and Stars are few and far between, so we’re delighted that following the stupendous success of the Lingerie Collective, Agent Incroyable aka David Finlayson, is now organising a trunk show in the UK!

Find Out More!

For retailers who want to get in on the action, contact David for more information about The Lake and Stars Trunk Show. We can’t wait to see more stockists in the UK!

Want It Now?

For those who want a piece of the cult lingerie label right now, you can find The Lake and Stars at Apartment C (UK) and Journelle (US)
or to find a stockist in your area, check out The Lake and Stars.

We must admit, we’ve been waiting for this day forever: Kiss Me Deadly have finally launched their online boutique! Has it been worth the wait? Yes, it certainly has. Headed by the ever modest Catherine Clavering, KMD have not only got their seriously speedy and user-friendly site right, they have included a few delightful extras. Click on ‘collections’ and you’ll see every collection they’ve made to date, and it’s on a beautifully laid out timeline – excellent for gift-buying lads and lassies (who may have forgotten what they bought the last time), and superb to see KMD’s progression.

The Favourites

Kiss Me Deadly cleverly use the power of listening so they can fulfil their customer’s wishes; check out their interactive page and you’ll get an idea of what we mean. As far as their collections go, it’s not so much about trends, rather than what they know works; and they do pretty much everything they can to please. We see the ever popular Vargas dress appear in different colours: believe me when I say it’s not just me who wants one in every colour! The Vargas dress (if I remember correctly was the result of a very fortunate error in communication) is one of those pieces we never ever want to see go – I’ve got the book of condolences to the ready should it ever disappear from our virtual shelves. I loved the black version, but the peach has taken over as probably the sexiest functional piece of lingerie I own.

And There’s More!

When a search for a six strap suspender belt kicks off the idea for a lingerie label, it goes without saying that good stockings are going to feature highly. The French label Cervin manufactures fabulous and traditional stockings and tights and are a firm feature where KMD are concerned. Chat to Catherine about nylon and silk stockings and you will emerge not only an expert, you’ll want to buy every pair you see. I have yet to find a pair of stockings I covet more than the Cervin Blush stockings – they are the ultimate in real vintage style and if you’ve always dreamed of completing your pinup look, only to be disappointed with wanna-be retro stockings, try Cervin. I have my eye firmly on the Rive Gauche silk hold ups for when I decide I deserve a big treat!

An Exclusive Discount For Knickers Readers!

Now you have the benefit of Kiss Me Deadly all in one place, we have another treat! If you’ve seen something you love in their new boutique, you can enjoy 15% off with the code knickersblog -it’s valid until 11th August 2010, on your first order!

Luckily the Bikini- and Swimsuit-wearing season doesn’t have to fill you with anxiety! Over the last few years Kaftan’s have become increasingly popular: we see daily shots of celebrities wearing the embroidered, cotton beauties – strolling on the beach or jazzing them up with a belt and cool summer hat for a lunch and shopping trip, proving the kaftan is one of the most versatile summer outfits! So us mortals can get in on the action, high street stores are now filling their rails with the all-important cover ups – and designers are enjoying using bright colours and stunning embroidery for us to enjoy.

If you haven’t yet found the perfect cover-up for your holiday, perhaps you haven’t yet come across Mya Blue Beach? Designed by Lindsey Brown, Mya Blue Beach kaftans, dresses and cool cover ups are laden with style.

The difference with Mya Blue Beach is the attention to shape: Lindsey’s background in fashion and textiles also extends to a masters in design; her extensive experience in design as well as bra fitting lead her to focus on designing kaftans and cover up dresses for those with larger busts and different body shapes.

Lindsey says: “There’s no limited age range for Mya Blue Beach as I’ve designed different dresses and tunics to suit everybody shapes and holiday occasion from Ourika which is great for pear shapes, smaller or fuller busts to the classic Medina for a slimmer athletic shape and Safa bandeau dress with ruffles that hide a fuller bust and looks great on a curvy shape”

So whether you’re looking for a cute dress to throw on for your beach side luncheon or a kaftan for a stroll along the beach, Mya Blue have it covered (pardon the pun) – just check and choose the shape and design that suits you best!

Mya Blue want to hear what you have to say – Click here to take part in Ultimate Cover Up survey!

Mya Blue offer one day bra-fitting courses and lingerie retail courses.

While I love my thigh shapers, I was delighted to see that there’s another product now out designed to help with chub rub – Thigh Society’s shorts for women. Made of cotton, these shorts aren’t shapewear — they are purely there to keep your legs cool and comfortable if you’re wearing a skirt. I tried out two pairs, and here’s how I got on:

Get Them At: Thigh Society
Price: $37.99 CAD
Colour: Black, White and Nude (new)
Size: S-4XL

I have to admit, it took me a while to get used to wearing non-shapewear shorts. I’ve practically lived in my Maidenform thigh shapers for the past year, so these shorts initially felt way too loose. I also found that the shorts tended to ride up a little bit, which eventually gave me the same chub rub problems.

After talking to Thigh Society about my problems, they recommended I go a size down – this helped tremendously, and made the shorts jump from “okay” to “great” in my book. The smaller size felt comfortably in-place, didn’t ride up, and finally showed me that I don’t have to wear shapewear every day to combat my chub rub! The only slight niggle I had left was that the legs could be slightly longer, for that extra little bit of thigh coverage.

I tend to wear my Thigh Society shorts for casual use – running to the shops, padding around the house, anytime that I can’t be bothered to wrangle myself into my shapewear shorts. They are softer, cooler, and more comfortable than shapewear, and are a god-send for me; every time i’m pawing through my underwear drawer and pull out my Thigh Society shorts, I have a little internal sigh of relief — ahh, i know i’ll be comfortable. That might be a little difficult to understand if you don’t suffer from chub rub, but those women who do will know exactly the kind of frustration that i’m talking about!

In a lot of ways, Thigh Society shorts are like a pair of your boyfriend’s boxers, but adapted for a woman. If you walk right past the skirts and dresses because you think you can never wear them, definitely give Thigh Societies a try – you might find yourself with a whole new wardrobe!

Shorts supplied by Thigh Society
You can also find Thigh Society on Facebook!

Alison reviews the Ophelia Silk Playsuit

Get it at: La Lilouche and Etsy
Price: $175
Sizing: S – L
Colours: Black
The Verdict: Do I have to take it off?

One rainy morning a parcel arrived: it was packed with lingerie. A box of pretty things is a very good way to start the day and it’s even better when the pretty things look like they’ve been designed with you in mind! After pulling out each piece with an Ooh and an Aah, I came across the Ophelia Playsuit. Although I’m in possession of a teddy or two, I’ve never actually found a bodysuit I really want. This I wanted.

Liya Amar, a former senior designer for London-based High Street stores, is now a freelance designer and alongside it decided to come up with her own label, La Lilouche. Based in Tel-Aviv, Liya uses beautiful silks, Chantilly lace and Swarovski Crystals to enhance her stunning collections that encompass both contemporary design and boudoir elegance. It’s no wonder I fell in love with her lingerie!

Before I had the honour of actually trying the Playsuit, I had seen it in the images (above); the sheerness of the silk, the gorgeous back and delicate lace appealed more than anything I have seen for some time. While we like to harp on about the importance of images, it is of course the actual design and fabric that are the ultimate test; but somehow I could see this suit was going to be a winner. And it most certainly is.

I’m not sure I have ever come across a more flattering design: the roomy silk chiffon is incredibly forgiving. Even in the days before I had any right to complain about my tummy, I did – if only La Lilouche had entered my life way back! The gentle, silk tie that draws together the oh-so-sexy cut out back is divine, and performs beautifully whichever look you decide upon. The bottom or knicker part of the suit was the part that surprised me most: with my aforementioned tummy issues, I tend to go for a bigger knicker – unless I’m feeling very brave (or insanely chirpy); the playsuit’s knicker part stopped in a normally worrying place and yet succeeded in giving me the best shape I think I’ve ever seen. It was a true lingerie miracle moment!

I love lingerie and have never been the type to keep it for ‘special occasions’ or wait until I can share it with a significant other (though I do have some pretty understanding friends who don’t mind me parading new items in front of them). My Ophelia Playsuit has therefore had a lot of wear already and has stood the test of wear-wash-wear-wash. I absolutely adore it and I’m already hoping Liya will consider making the suit in a different colour – just so I can admire myself in another shade!

The Beautiful Fred & Ginger

Fred & Ginger are one of Britain’s most luxurious brands: from the first time we laid eyes on Victoria Holt’s designs we knew this label would last. Fascinatingly beautiful, Fred&Ginger designs always include those exquisite little details, setting them apart from other luxury labels. Imagine the most lavish of cakes piled high with every luscious ingredient imaginable and you will understand!

Fred & Ginger On Britain’s Next Top Model!

Anyone who has followed Britain’s Next Top Model will know the calibre of labels used in the programme are top notch. It’s therefore no surprise that Fred & Ginger have been chosen to feature on the rather addictive BNTM! Turn onto Living TV tonight at 9pm and you will enjoy an hour long photoshoot, featuring designer Victoria Holt and 14 chosen girls, who will experience the photographic talents of Shane Woodward. Not only can you look forward to the interesting ins and outs of a lingerie photoshoot, it’s a chance to see Fred & Ginger lingerie in all its glamorous glory!

While we are often left frustrated by ‘must have’ feelings about designs featured on BNTM only to find we ‘can’t find’ – this time we know exactly where to go. And to top it all off, Fred & Ginger are offering Knickers readers 15% off all their lingerie for the next two weeks! Go to Fred&Ginger , choose your favourite and enter the code BNTM2010 to enjoy your discount!

Seasonal Adjustments

The summer may bring with it warm sun, long evenings and good moods, but it also brings a whole new wardrobe. Thin-strapped tops, low-cut dresses and lighter fabrics all contribute to having to rethink what lingerie to wear! Not only are we plagued with thoughts of bumpy lace spoiling the look of our favourite skimming top (I for one have yet to find a T-shirt bra I like), heaven forbid if an unsightly bra strap were to show!

It’s worth mentioning that if you’re in the larger cup category, it is advisable to wear a bra for support and look. It might be tempting to go ‘commando’ in your summer gear, but really, it’s a look you want to avoid. Wearing a bra will not only give your girls a lift in the right direction, it will enhance your body as a whole and if you haven’t already tried it, stand in front of a mirror and do a before and after experiment!

Summery Options!

If you’re a fan of lace or embroidery it’s wise to go for something low-key – avoiding lumpy, bumpy designs. Fantasie and Freya are both good options for well-fitting, low-key prettiness that won’t spoil your summer look. For those who aren’t in need of super support, pretty bralets are a great option (see our post on smaller sizes) and secret support camisoles and tops are invaluable for smaller cup girls.

In terms of colour, work out what colours you wear most in the summer and choose your lingerie to match. It’s not about having a bra to match every colour in your wardrobe; it’s about buying wisely! If you wear white shirts or dresses, you might want to invest in a plain, nude bra to keep wandering eyes at bay. White is also a good staple for your summer lingerie drawer, and any simple, pastel colours will enhance your summer wardrobe as will bright, colourful tones – providing you keep inner and outerwear coordinated. Black or dark colours under a light-coloured summer outfit really are a no-no, unless you want to make a statement.

Seasonal Adjustments

Wearing not only the right size, but also the right style of bra, goes a long way in getting a great overall look. Your favourite balcony bra might look fabulous under a blouse, but wear it with a low-cut dress and it could end up being a flop. Check the line of your top or dress and choose your bra style accordingly: a plunge bra will give you a fabulous cleavage in a low-cut top and will provide a clean line, with no awkward bits of fabric poking out. A balcony will come up a little higher and give you a great lift and a full-cup bra will provide you with overall coverage and maximum support. For many a strapless bra is also a valuable investment when it comes to backless, strapless and halterneck garments. If you’re unsure of what bra to buy, why not take your outfits with you to a shop and give different styles a try? If you’re buying online you can try on in the comfort of your own home – most online stores offer free returns, just remember not to remove any tags!

Relax and Enjoy!

Because lingerie designers follow seasons and trends in similar ways fashion designers do, you will often find colours, prints and styles overlap. As with fashion, getting the latest styles in the latest colours and prints is a fabulous way to keep on trend, but for those whose wallets groan at the very thought of investing in a new lingerie wardrobe every season, don’t fret! Designers bring out seasonal colours and if we buy wisely, our seasonal buys will last for longer than just one season – wash and store your lingerie like you would your favourite cashmere jumper and you’ll find it perfectly preserved when you unwrap it the next year!

Homepage Image Fleur of England, Daisy Dreams – available at Fleur of England.