Posts from April, 2012

The Lingerie Addict is a Body Snark Free Zone

Edit: Several bloggers have written to me to ask if they could use the Body Snark Free Zone image on their own sites, and the answer is yes! To get an easily embeddable copy of the image, just go you here: So You Want to Make Your Website a Body Snark Free Zone

Today’s blog post has been four months in the making, pretty much ever since the last article I wrote on body image and body snark back in December. Making a stand on something is always scary, because you never know how people will react. But when something’s been on my mind for a couple hundred days…well, then maybe that means it’s time to say it out loud.

From the very beginning, I’ve wanted The Lingerie Addict to be a place women could find information about lingerie that’s relevant and accessible to them.  I truly believe every woman – no matter her size, age, or budget – deserves gorgeous lingerie, and I want my readers to feel that when they visit.

But lately I’ve learned that being relevant and accessible goes beyond just prices and brands and cup sizes. It also means cultivating a tone on the blog that’s welcoming and inviting. It’s so important to me that The Lingerie Addict is a blog every woman can feel comfortable and safe visiting. And even though my About Page talks about my commitment to inclusivity and polite discourse, I’ve not really been explicit about what that means. And so here it is:

Starting today, The Lingerie Addict is a body snark free zone.

This new direction, if you want to call it that, isn’t a decision I made lightly. I always want people to feel like they’re welcome to comment, even if they disagree with me, but body snark goes beyond a simple difference of opinion and into something that I really cannot, in good conscience, tolerate.

Body snark is bullying.

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that bullying takes many forms, from physical assault to threats and intimidation to social isolation, and some of you reading this may wonder if bullying is too strong a word to use for body snark. But I believe that intentionally making people feel small and awful and ashamed because they have the audacity to be born with a body type you don’t like (in other words, insulting people just for existing) is bullying. And that’s something The Lingerie Addict cannot and will not support, even in a passive way.

Women come in a range of shapes and sizes, and while you don’t have to think they’re all beautiful (people are entitled to their personal preferences after all), this current climate of listing all the ways women’s bodies are ugly and deficient (too much cellulite, too thin, too fat, too many wrinkles, too old, too light, too dark, etc.) is one I can’t get behind.

No one’s body is “wrong” and in need of changing (or hiding) simply because you don’t like it.

Supporting positive body image doesn’t inquire insults. Nor does wanting more diversity in the kinds of bodies shown in the media make putting down someone else’s body type okay. Every woman is living in a world where there are endless articles about how to make your body “better” and next to none about how to love it just the way it is.

I don’t know how this new policy is going to go over. And I’ve prepared myself for backlash if it happens. But I will say that if you feel like our new “no body snark” policy is unfair or like it’s censorship or like you just can’t enjoy The Lingerie Addict anymore because of it…well, we’re probably not the blog for you, and I’m okay with that.

What do you think about us being a body snark free blog? I welcome your thoughts in the comments.

Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

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Weekly Lingerie Sales – 4/21/12

Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

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New 2012/2013 Hosiery from Gerbe!

Gerbe just sent over their new 2012/2013 lookbook, and I’m smitten. As some of you know, I started blogging as Stockings Addict, so hosiery will always hold a special place in my heart, and I love how Gerbe constantly comes out with new patterns, colors, and designs every season. Below are a few of my favorites. The new styles will be available starting July 1st.

Lyrique Lace Leggings

Paris by Night Tights

Parisienne Thigh Highs

Nymphia Tights

Sensation Stockings

Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

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What Katie Did Flash Corsets Sale – Save 50% Thru Friday!

I’m in Atlanta right now visiting my parents, which means I’m checking my e-mail a lot less frequently, and checking my Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr hardly at all. So I want to thank everyone who’s e-mailed, messaged, tweeted, and otherwise made sure I got the memo about the What Katie Did Corset Sale.

Whenever someone writes to ask about where they can buy a good quality, off-the-rack corset, I inevitably refer them to What Katie Did. No, What Katie Did doesn’t make the cheapest corsets. But honestly considering the quality of the fabric and construction (not to mention the fact that they pay their workers a fair wage), they never will be the cheapest. But you will get a good corset, one you feel proud of and comfortable wearing for years…even if a fully custom piece is out of your budget.

Below are a few of the items from the corset sale. Do you any of you own a What Katie Did corset? I’d love to get some of your reviews, tips, and feedback in the comments. One of our readers sent in a review of a What Katie Did corset back in 2010.


Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

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Blossoming Bloomers: Cherry Blossom Print Lingerie

Blossoming Bloomers


If you’ve ever participated in Hanami, or the viewing of the annual Cherry Blossoms, then you understand the allure of this centuries old practice and the inspiration it provides for tourists, artists & peace seekers alike. A traditional Japanese practice, Hanami has risen to become a global phenomenon famous for its beauty and symbolization of life’s ephemerality.

However, as with life, the fantastical blooms of the Cherry Blossom trees are fleeting, which is what makes Hanami so special and elusive. Depending on the weather, Cherry Blossom festivals (also known as Sakura Matsuri) may only last for around two weeks.

As a designer I have often found great inspiration in the lush pink blooms and it seems that I’m not alone. This season many lingerie labels have incorporated the beautiful blossoms & Oriental influence into their prints, color palettes & design details, making for some pretty skivvies and gorgeous accessories. Here are a few noteworthy pieces to help catapult us into spring.


This pretty set from Marlies Dekkers showcases cherry blossoms and butterflies embroidered on silk. Practical for every day wear this set looks comfortable and understated while the side slits & metal details give it that little edge Marlies Dekkers is famous for. (http://www.marliesdekkers.com/)


Bedhead is known for their cozy pajamas in an array of kitschy prints & patterns. This season they have taken their inspiration from the Far East with a range of botanical florals and Oriental motifs. One of my favorites is this Little Tokyo print depicting cherry blossoms, silk fans and exotic geisha girls. Paper parasol not included! (http://www.bedheadpjs.com/)


The Blossom collection from Dirty Pretty Things is at the top of my list for this season. I’m loving the photo quality print with the saturated contrasting colors. In georgette it’s flowy, silky and breezy – everything a spring wardrobe should be. And since it comes in every silhouette under the sun you may have a tough time choosing just one piece! (http://www.dirtyprettythings.uk.com/)


Italian corset maker Karybdis Atelier has created this one of a kind Victorian underbust corset in luxury brocade with metallic cherry blossom embroidery. The craftsmanship is visible in the details – crystal beadwork, steel boning & satin lace-up back. This piece creates a perfect hourglass silhouette with its burlesque aesthetic and would make a great gift for a bride to be. (http://www.etsy.com/shop/KarybdisAtelier)


Another great collection is from active wear company INKnBURN who specialize in vibrant & unique printed performance workout gear. For Spring INKnBURN is showing this pretty cherry blossom print in an array of silhouettes. This sports bra particularly caught my eye and can be easily matched to a running short, t-shirt, arm warmers or camp. (http://www.inknburn.com/)


Finally full coverage bikinis are back in style as a retro silhouette! If you are embracing this trend like I am (goodbye tummy pooch, hello curves) then you may be interested in this cherry blossom set from Australian swimwear designer Lisa Blue. The surf ready suit is made to stay put while looking cute & stylish. And as an extra bonus a portion of the proceeds will be donated to protecting the whales and dolphins. (http://lisablue.com.au/)


Old Shanghai Online is a great resource to find high quality Asian gifts & fashions. Their silk kimono is an elegant piece with intricate hand painted cherry blossoms on the front & back. Each unique robe takes a week to complete and is offered in 7 rich colors. I’ve already placed my order and can’t wait to wear it lounging around with my Hello Kitty slippers! (http://www.oldshanghaionline.com/)


Another Asian inspired retailer Go East Art offers gorgeous tights & leggings with artful printing. The Tattoo collection consists of opaque nude tights with a unique design down the side for a trompe l’oeil tattoo look. The cherry blossom tights are perfect for those who are not ready to commit to the ink but love the look. Simple but edgy there is also an option to add Swarovski crystals to the motif for a little extra sparkle. (http://www.goeastart.com/)

Have you attended Sakura Matsuri this season? Which other flowers do you find inspiring this time of year?

Kristina

Kristina

Lingerie Designer specializing in fashion & trend.

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Busty Girl Comics: An Interview with the Woman Behind the Wit

I am super excited about today’s blog post, an interview with Paige, the artist behind Busty Girl Comics. In case you haven’t heard of it, Busty Girl Comics is a webcomic all about the perks (and problems!) of having big boobs. Smart, insightful, and just plain funny, Busty Girl Comics is one of my new daily reads. Take a look at what Paige to say about comics, boobs, and what it’s like being the internet’s newest viral sensation.

P.S. If you’ve arrived here from Busty Girl Comics, welcome! If this is your first time at The Lingerie Addict, you might enjoy these two posts: The Lingerie Addict Awards: Our Favorite Lingerie Brands of 2011 and The Best Lingerie Addict Blog Posts of 2011.

1) Busty Girl Comics is hilarious and, according to my full busted readers, super super true. What was your inspiration for starting a webcomic all about boobs?

My mother, my sister, and I are all wicked busty so we’ve always joked about it among ourselves but it wasn’t until I was really pretty upset one night that I decided to draw about it. I was looking at cute t-shirts and was already in a sour mood because I felt my art had hit a wall. This lead to me quickly drawing the Screen-printed Tees comic at 1:30 in the morning. Once I got that first problem off my chest (pun completely intended), the inspiration came flooding in. By the next day, I started the BCG tumblr.

2) Do you come from a comic book background? Did you have other comics or design projects before this one?

Sorta-kinda. I’ve got more of a Costume Design and Construction/Painting/Comics/Animation background. My only professional comic experience was a comic on the Crisis in Darfur for EZ comics (http://www.ezcomics.com/site/sites/all/themes/ezcomics_new/view_comics.php?viewid=149). I’ve worked on a number of comic projects for classwork and personal work as well and fully intend to keep making more.


3) What’s been the overall response to Busty Girl Comics since you started it?

Overwhelming. I’m still completely blown away by just how many people love reading BGC. I knew that there were probably other people like me who are frustrated by having to safety pin blouses or spend an arm and a leg on the world’s most boring bra, but I had no idea how isolated some people felt with these feelings. Not gonna lie, I get pretty teary-eyed when people tell me that they feel like they’ve found a home at BGC or how much better they feel now knowing that they aren’t alone. I especially love when guys or self-proclaimed flat girls tell me how they have a new appreciation for their own bodies or their significant others because they now understand what we busty folks go through.

4) What’s your favorite Busty Girl Comics comic so far?

D:> I have to pick just one? Uh…It’s hard not to just say “All of them” so I’ll try to delve deep. I really like the “Hands-free towel” one because it was my first perk, which was a bit of a turning point for the series. I’m also pretty proud of “Not-so-safety pins” and “Underboob” because they translated perfectly from what I had in mind to what I ended up drawing.

5) As a busty girl, what are some of your fave busty girl resources? I’m talking blogs, bra brands, or even other social media accounts.

I wish I was more plugged in before but a lot of the busty resources I use now come from my readers. Because of how frustrating finding a comfortable bra was, looking at beautiful eye-candy bras felt a bit like salt in a very open wound. BGC opened the door to finding sites like yours, Curvy Kate, My Intimacy, and What Katie Did so now I finally feel like there’s actually hope for owning gorgeous bras someday, even if they’re still out of my budget ^.^;;

6) While we’re on the subject, I’m a huge comic book geek (and my fiance is a huge web comic geek), so I have to ask, do you read any other comics as well?

Ooooh yes. I have a daily comic ritual of Sinfest, Girls with Slingshots, Questionable Content, and Plume. I’m also a huge fan of Fullmetal Alchemist, Chester XYZ (NSFW, don’t judge me *^.^*), Berlin: City of Stones, and countless others. I guess I’m a bit of a comic junkie.

7) Where do you see Busty Girl Comics going? Will you ever run out of things to share?

I would like to keep this going as long as I can and I’m planning on publishing a book every 100 comics in order to make that happen. Thankfully, I don’t think I’ll ever have to worry about running out of ideas. So many people are willing to send in their thoughts, suggestions, stories, and ideas that I have a steady flow of inspiration, even when none of my own experiences come to mind.

8) I know Busty Girl Comics is funny, but on a more serious note, what are you thoughts on the way larger breasted women are portrayed in society?

…Ugh. I could be flying to extremes here but I’m a little fed up with feeling like I’m either a walking pair of sex toys or a symbol of the ideal baby-maker just because a part of me is larger than average. I get that boobs are great and all but does that really justify the amount of dehumanization that happens to busty women? I feel like a bit of a hypocrite because my comic is all about breasts but I like to think that it’s more about the people with those breasts than what those breasts can do for the reader.

9) Any final thoughts? Where are your online hangouts?

I would really like to thank everyone that reads BGC. I get some of the most amazing comments (I even write out the most touching comments and hang them on my wall so I can look at them whenever I’m bummed out) and everyone is so willing to help one another. I had no idea when I started a comic that I’d be part of a growing network of people learning to love the bodies they have. It’s pretty freakin’ cool!

 

Thanks so much for your time, Paige! It was a real pleasure talking with you.

Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

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Soft Bras- Something for the Weekend?

By: Pippa

Huit A/W 2012

Soft bras are something which, for years, I brushed past and didn’t even consider. Not being of the usual soft bra A-C Cup, I always figured these just weren’t the bra for me.

But more recently I’ve found myself falling in love with the shape, design, detailing and ultra soft cosy fabrics of some soft bras, and before I knew it, found myself making allowances, justifying them and adding a few to my collection.

For me, these aren’t every day bras, but rather end of long day bras, and cosy evening in with a glass of wine bras (if such a thing didn’t exist – it does now)

So here’s my personal pick of my favourite soft bras available in the lingerie market at the moment:

VPL Lingerie Insertion Bra

Firstly VPL Lingerie, which I’ve written about here before, because occasionally I come across a brand where I love absolutely everything and this is definitely one of them. The colour combinations are all just my kind of thing. The fabric’s so soft and the straps wide and forgiving, you’ll immediately forget you’re wearing it at all.

Wundervoll

I love researching my columns because I’m always coming across new brands. While they’ve been around for a few years now, German brand Wundervoll are my most recent discovery, using soft silk jersey fabrics, their S/S12 soft bras with lace inserts are to die for, and who’d have thought pastel orange would work so well!?

Calvin Klein

I generally tend to avoid Calvin Klein, because I’m not a massive fan of t-shirt bras and I don’t fall into their mainstream sizing, but I have to admit they know what they’re doing. They have a few styles which work well and they go with them. This triangle bra was my first soft bra purchase which started the whole obsession, and I was pleasantly surprised. As beautiful on the inside as it is on the out!

Made By Niki - Atomic II Sheer Bandeau Bra

And finally the Made By Niki Atomic II sheer bandeau bra, with adjustable front and back underband straps, this has to be ultimate versatile soft bra. This bra slips on, so no hook and eye = absolutely nothing to irritate you.

In general, anything above a C-Cup I’d recommend avoiding rigid chiffons and silks, which may be beautiful, but if you’re looking for some level of support, these could prove uncomfortable and irritating. Instead, I’d go for something with a little stretch which will be a little more forgiving to your body shape, such as soft jersey, stretch silk or mesh.

Again, it’s a personal choice, completely up to the wearer, but I wouldn’t wear these style soft bras every day, but would urge anyone who’s already decided soft bras aren’t for them, to give one of these a try, you may be surprised and realise you love them! (And open a whole new door to your lingerie obsession.)

Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

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