Posts in category "bodysuits"

Lingerie Review: Sonata ‘Aida’ Classic Lace Bodysuit

Disclosure: I was sent this piece free of charge for review purposes by Sonata Lingerie. All opinions are my own.

Sonata 'Aida' Lace Bodysuit Front View

Sonata ‘Aida’ Lace Bodysuit Front View

There’s a lot to love about Sonata.

Named after the designer, Sonata Rapalyte, all of Sonata’s lingerie is ethically handmade in Lithuania. They’re well known for their gorgeous laces, and they’ve managed the impressive feat of creating a signature, easily recognizable style – The Sonata Bodysuit. Beautifully crafted and a joy to look at, this bodysuit is made of 100% polyester lace and 100% silk satin trimmings.

The bottom half is a full brief style, and the snap-fastened guesset is also lined with silk. Cap sleeves, an underbust seam, and nine front buttons complete the look. I was sent a customized size M (I fall between M and L on the Sonata size chart) to review.

Sonata Lace Bodysuit Closeup

Sonata Lace Bodysuit Closeup

Sonata really understands that first impressions matter for luxury lingerie, and I loved how they sent this bodysuit in its very own silk pouch. That sort of detail makes you feel special and excited, which is exactly how you’re supposed to feel about your intimates. I found the bodysuit very easy to slip on, and had no issues with either the buttons or the gusset.

The bodysuit is very unstructured and contains no wires or support of any kind. While the seaming under the bust was enough support for me, I can see how it’d be a concern for women with larger or less firm breasts. While it looks undeniably beautiful on, I ran into the same issue with this bodysuit that I run into with most others I’ve tried. The back, shoulders, and chest are cut very small. I found myself feeling a little reluctant to move  in any direction lest I tore a seam or even ripped the lace outright. If you’re muscular, athletic, or have an “inverted triangle” body shape, you may have similar fit issues with this piece. However, I wasn’t put off by the cap sleeves, which was a surprise. I tend to not wear cap sleeves as they make my already broad shoulders look even broader, but I didn’t feel that way about these; it could be that the deep plunge neck with its scalloped detail helped draw the eye away from that part of my body. Another note about the material, there is no elastic in this garment, so it does not stretch. If you’ve worn 100% nylon stockings before, I’d liken the wear of this to that; any stretching that happens with this bodysuit means it won’t “bounce back” to its original shape.

Sonata Lace Bodysuit Back View

Sonata Lace Bodysuit Back View

Tightness around the back and ribs aside (which probably won’t affect most of you reading this), I really do like this piece. I completely adore how simple it is, especially since so much of lingerie today seems geared towards “fixing” your body. I also love how Sonata can custom make bodysuits for a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes. So many of my plus size readers lament how they can’t get the truly gorgeous lingerie in their size (and rightly so), but with Sonata, you can. Women with a high waist/hip ratio (12″ or more of difference) will likely want to go the custom route. Ditto for plus size and full bust women. The care tag says dry clean only, but you should be fine with handwashing this in lingerie wash. I definitely wouldn’t throw a Sonata bodysuit in a washing machine though, not even in a lingerie wash bag. Because the lace is a bit delicate, I see this as more of a special-occasion only piece, but I also think it’d be really cool if someone rocked it with layers as an underwear/outerwear sort of look.

Me in the Sonata Lace Bodysuit

Me in the Sonata Lace Bodysuit

So what you do think, fellow addicts, have you tried any Sonata Lingerie before? What did you think of them?

Cora

Cora

Founder and Chief Editor of The Lingerie Addict. Sugar Junkie. Lace Lover. Sci-Fi Geek.

More Posts - Website

Follow Me:
TwitterFacebookLinkedInPinterestGoogle PlusFlickrStumbleUponYouTube

Lust Objects: Kiss Me Quick ‘I Am Trouble’ Bodysuit

Warning: NSFW image below.

Kiss Me Quick ‘I Am Trouble” Bodysuit. Modeled By Masuimi Max.

If I could buy the item featured in today’s “Lust Object” post, it would be a “Lingerie of the Week,” but since I can’t, I figured I’d share my misery with everyone so we could all drool over this together.

I’ve been of a fan of Kiss Me Quick for quite while, probably as long as I’ve been blogging. It’s no secret that I’m a sucker for pin-up, retro, and burlesque-inspired lingerie and Simone Squires, the costume designer behind Kiss Me Quick, somehow manages to make all her lingerie a lot much fun.

When I saw this bodysuit, I fell in love immediately, and I stayed in love. Seriously, I would buy this in a heartbeat if it was still available, and I’ve created entire outfits in my mind around this single piece.

But alas, right now, it isn’t meant to be. So I’ll have satisfy myself with making puppy dog eyes at Simone from afar. Take a look at another photo of this bodysuit below (what inutterably exquisite lace), as well as a couple more variations on the design below that.

Kiss Me Quick ‘I Am Trouble” Bodysuit. Modeled By Masuimi Max

The Flocked Velvet version, sold here.

Kiss Me Quick ‘I Am Trouble’ Bodysuit. Photo by Leather and Lace Creative.

Kiss Me Quick ‘I Am Trouble’ Bodysuit. David Woolley Photography.

Kiss Me Quick Bodysuit. David Woolley Photography.

And one more variation, via here.

Kiss Me Quick “I am Trouble” Polka Dot Mesh Bodysuit

Cora

Cora

Founder and Chief Editor of The Lingerie Addict. Sugar Junkie. Lace Lover. Sci-Fi Geek.

More Posts - Website

Follow Me:
TwitterFacebookLinkedInPinterestGoogle PlusFlickrStumbleUponYouTube

Eco-Designer Spotlight: Underprotection Lingerie Review

Sigrun body by Underprotection
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

When I got sent the press release for Underprotection, a Danish sustainable lingerie and loungewear brand, they caught my eye.  I was immediately impressed by their chic lookbook with beautiful photography – none of the hippie granola cliche of sustainability.  Upon perusing their website, I found that their commitment to sustainability seems to have a solid foundation, using not only eco-friendly materials, but also using sustainable labor practices.

Pamela set by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

A representative from Underprotection was kind enough to send me two sample sets of my own choosing for review.  Their catalog images didn’t seem to do the styles justice, but between the web catalog and the lookbook photos I chose my favorites out of a lot of cute options.  When Underprotection’s package arrived for me, I continued to be impressed.  A hard copy of the gorgeous lookbook was included, and information about the fibers used in each style was attached to the hang tag.  Silhouette-wise, the Pamela bra and brief set is very different from Sigrun body, though both happen to be composed primarily of bamboo.  Now, bamboo is admittedly semi-controversial as an eco-fiber – the plant itself is wonderful, but the process of turning it into filament is chemical-heavy, but there’s no denying it does make for a wonderful fabric.  Anyway, I like to test new wardrobe and put it through its paces by subjecting it to a photoshoot.  Special thanks to Lauren Luck for the extra-special film photography.

Pamela set by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Pamela set
Style-wise, while the halter-strap is very cute, it is a little impractical for daily wear, but I just can’t resist a good bralette.  The fit was comfortable, with about as much support as you’d expect from a soft cup bra.  The matching panties were also comfy – they had a more relaxed fit than I usually go for, yet it seemed appropriate for the style.  The waistline was a smidge low for my tastes, but the fabric stretchy enough that I could pull it up to my natural waist.  The keyhole at the back is a cute little touch.  Overall, I thought this was a great set to make me feel both comfortable and sexy.

Pamela set by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Pamela set by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Pamela set by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Pamela set by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Sigrun body
I was pretty curious about the Sigrun body – while I’m addicted to rompers, the minute you call it a “bodysuit” or “teddy,” somehow I get these weird 80s-high-legline-cheap-lace pictures in my head and lose all interest.  The menswear reference and stark black and white fabrication of the Sigrun body was just too good to deny, though.  I did find the super-duper-extra-sheer crotch, with no liner, a slightly odd choice: for the photos, I had to wear a lightweight pair of nude high-waist panties.  I think it would make me self-conscious enough to not make it a loungewear go-to, much as I’d like it to be, but I’ll be definitely wearing it as a daywear piece.  Again, I love the combination of the comfortable fit with a stylish design.

Sigrun body by Underprotection
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Sigrun body by Underprotection
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Sigrun body by Underprotection
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Sigrun body by Underprotection
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Sigrun body by Underprotection
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Sigrun body by Underprotection.
Photo: Lauren Luck
Model: Victoria Dagger

Final thoughts
Four stars.  For the most part, the stitching was very clean, although I did notice that the halter strap seemed a bit strained in its set-in on one side.  I have a sneaking suspicion that I’ll have to tack it back in place at some point in the future.  I love the drape and feel of both the lightweight bamboo satin and the soft bamboo mesh (!!).  The colors/color blocking are utterly charming.  I think Underprotection is a brand to keep your eye on, even if you don’t have a particular interest in sustainable design.  Who doesn’t love clothes that both look and feel good when you wear them?

What do you think about the sets shown above and the other styles on Underprotection’s website?  Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Review: Zinke Intimates Lace Jumper

Photo via Zinke Intimates

Disclaimer: The lingerie in this review was provided by Zinke Intimates. All opinions are my own.

Today’s lingerie review is a bit unusual. I actually received this piece a year and a half ago, but chose not to publish a post about it at that time. However while moving, I rediscovered this romper, gave it another try, and decided it’d be a great piece to talk about on the blog.

Zinke Intimates has been around since 2009, but they’ve only really taken off in the last year or so. With Anthropologie, ASOS, Nordstrom, BHLDN, ShopBop and Free People among their stockists, Zinke has the kind of national profile most indie brands dream of. While the brand started with lingerie, they recently debuted a swimwear collection as well, and I have a feeling that’s going to pass their intimates line in terms of reach and visibility very soon.

Current romper colorways. Photos via Zinke Intimates.

The lace jumpers are one of Zinke Intimate’s most popular items, and I would even say they’ve become something of a trademark. The jumper is simply constructed with an open back, halter tie at the neck, and brief bottom. The lace is a cotton/nylon blend, and the romper itself contains no lining at all, not even on the gusset. The romper also contains no internal supports, such as cups or seaming for the breasts. I received the color “Sugar” (or ivory, shown below) in size Large.

Photo via Zinke Intimates

I looked up my notes on the Zinke jumper from 2011, and many of my observations are still the same. The lace is gorgeous. I love the uncomplicated, unfussy structure of the piece. The little peeks of skin though the material are lovely, and I could easily see this item working as outerwear with the addition of some skintone adhesive nipple covers (in fact, one of our recent guest columnists, Chai, is wearing a Zinke romper in her photo).

Yet all that wasn’t enough to make me review the piece when I first got it. Because I couldn’t fit into it. And that brings me to my biggest concern with the garment…it has no ‘give’ whatsoever.

Me in the Zinke Intimates Romper

As pretty as the nylon/cotton lace blend is, it has no stretch, no elasticity, and no flexibility. There’s one band of elastic around the top of the panty at the back (I suppose to keep it snug to the body), but for the most part, you either fit the piece exactly, or you don’t fit it at all. And considering that my dress size (which is a US 10) hasn’t changed in the last couple of years, that means it only takes a small change in your body to significantly affect the fit of the garment. Put simply, I’d be reluctant to buy a piece which couldn’t even accommodate a tiny weight and shape fluctuation…especially since those fluctuations are a common experience for so many women. And I would definitely say I’m at the absolute upper limits of the size chart for Zinke.

Top and bottom details of the Zinke Intimates romper

Because my bust is significantly smaller than my hips, I also felt like there were some fit issues on top. I do like the simple structure of the romper, but the downside of that is there’s not much room for adjustment. The halter top felt very loose and ‘slippery’ on me and even small movements resulted in some major exposed nipples. Finally, and this just may be a personal preference, I really didn’t like the absence of a lined gusset. Exposed seams in that area just make a piece feel unfinished to me.

Overall, I would say I like this item, but with reservations. It’s a beautiful alternative to some of the more fancier, more frou-frou lines out there, but it’s really important to make sure you fit the given measurements for your size exactly before ordering. Otherwise, the Zinke Intimates romper just won’t be as flattering as it could be…if it fits at all.

Have you tried one of these lace rompers before? What did you think? I’d love to hear some other perspectives in the comments.

Holiday Lingerie Shopping Guides: 10 Bodysuits, Rompers & Teddies

The one piece trend (mostly consisting of bodysuits, rompers, and teddies) has made a comeback…and in a big way. Perfect for layering  underneath clothing or just for lounging casually around the house, this fashion statement shows no signs of going away anytime soon. The pieces in today’s shopping guide are priced between $40.99 and $295.00.

Love Obsession Plus; $40.99 (also available in misses)

Honeydew Modal & Lace Romper; $45.00

Eberjey Oriana Playsuit; $83.00

Elora Bodysuit; $88.00

Zinke All Things Nice Jumper in Spice; $138.00

Mimi Holliday Bisou Bisou Bodysuit; $145.00

Belle et Bon Bon Lace Bodysuit; £95.00 (app. $151.50)

Brulee Boudoir Collection ‘Coco’ Teddy; $180.00

La Fee Verte Navy Lace Web Teddy; $198.00

Myla ‘Kenzie’ Bodysuit; $295.00

The Lingerie Collective SS13: previews and highlights!

Pandora by Fleur of England

The Lingerie Collective is the UK’s only trade show dedicated to truly luxury lingerie and swimwear – I popped along to see what’s new for AW12 and SS13.  I’ve picked out my personal highlights for you to peruse!

Damaris

With tassels, Swarovski crystals and feather trims, this collection will bring out the show-girl in everyone.  Featuring signature styles such as the V wired bra and ‘naked’ tulle bra, it’s as playful and extravagant as you can expect from Damaris.  I’m particularly fond of the Chantilly lace V bra – bold shapes with delicate detail, the perfect contrast!  AW12/13 also sees the launch of Damaris’ first Bridal range – for the more adventurous bride, expect unique shapes, silks, laces and feather trims.

Mimi Holliday

The tamer ‘sister’ to Damaris, Mimi Holliday’s latest collection features the usual selection of signature shapes (such as the bow-back thong, corset knicker and lace shoulder bras) in a gorgeous palette of jewel tones, with new designs such as a multi-way lace body and padded shoulder bra. With 16 different stories, there’s sure to be something to suit everyone in this collection – and even though it’s not quite lingerie, I’m especially excited about the lace ears as seen in the lookbook shoots… Totally adorable and the perfect boudoir accessory!

Else

Else was launched in 2007 by designer Ela Onur with an ethos of uniting quality fabrics, perfect fit and glamorous design.  Each garment is handmade in their Istanbul atelier, using luxurious silks and Chantilly laces. unusual pleats and drapes – flattering and glamorous.  The signature range is as elegant as ever, utilising unusual pleats and drapes to create truly flattering and glamorous lingerie.  I love the ‘Lace Tattoo’ body particularly – a wonderful play on revealing and concealing the body.

Fleur of England

This season, Fleur of England has once again managed to create some my favourite lace pieces.  Their aesthetic has retained its usual elegance and sense of romance, with sumptuous silks being paired with exquisite French laces.  My personal highlights of the collection are ‘Berry Kiss’ and ‘Pandora’  –  I adore the pairing of the leavers lace with nude tulle and the contrast of the silk in the latter!

Fraulein Kink

Photography – Catherine Day, Model – Twiglet

Fraulein Kink’s boudoir accessories are the perfect combination of naughtiness and femininity – this season sees the introduction of the new fringe ‘Maid’ set, comprising of an eye mask and skirt, and the reinvention of the signature kitten mask with gold tipped ears, matching handcuffs and collar accessory.  These pieces are fabulously multi-functional too, perfect with lingerie but also begging to be styled with your outerwear.  With all of this 50 Shades of Grey fever going around, it’s no small surprise that these oh-so-pretty bedroom accessories are seeing such a rise in popularity…

Lucile

Lucile has one of the most fascinating heritages that I’ve ever seen in a lingerie brand.  Founded by Camilla Blois, great-great-great-granddaughter of couturier Lady Duff Gordon of couture brand ‘Maison Lucile’ – renowned for its fine and romantic silk and lace lingerie, it was the source of much controversy in the late 19th century.  Taking inspiration from these designs and from some of Maison Lucile’s highest profile clients, Lucile uses sumptuous silks and laces to create some truly elegant lingerie.  I’m particularly in love with the long trained robes – surely the height of lingerie extravagance!

Paolita

Whilst swimwear isn’t ideal for Winter-time, there are some very exciting designs awaiting us next Summer from Paolita – expect some fantastically bold colours and prints!  I’m particularly in love with the ‘Day of the Dead’ print – fabulously detailed and flirty, it’s the perfect beach accompaniment .

Sumarie

Sumarie made its debut at the Lingerie Collective and is truly one of the most luxurious swimwear lines I’ve ever come across – simultaneously fashion-forward and elegant, each piece is expertly-cut and handmade with exquisite attention to detail in Sumarie’s London atelier.  The cover-ups are particularly stunning – bold and graphic prints on perfectly flowing silk, so lovely that I’d be scared of taking them to the beach!

Tatu Couture

Tatucouture’s SS13 ‘Sweet Surrender’ collection continues the brands ‘tattoo’ aesthetic, yet has introduced a much softer and sweeter aesthetic, with its signature ‘tattoo’ prints being paired with delicate laces and vintage-inspired shapes.  The overwired body is particularly gorgeous – a modernised and sophisticated interpretation of a traditionally vintage shape!

Readers – what do you think of my picks?  Are there any new designs that you’re particularly excited about this season?

Karolina

Karolina

Student at De Montfort University's world-renowned Contour Fashion course. Makes many knickers in her spare time.

More Posts - Website

The Look for Less: La Perla vs. Frederick’s of Hollywood

In the left corner we’ve got La Perla’s feathered, g-string bodysuit from a few seasons back.  Sold through their online boutique and Net-a-Porter.com, this bodysuit originally retailed for $470.

In the right corner, we have Frederick’s of Hollywood’s newer, more budget friendly version.  Selling for less than a tenth of the price of the original, you can afford to pick up a couple at only $42 each.

What do you think, fellow addicts, is this feathered teddy a purchase…or pass?