Posts in category "wolford"

5 Perfect (Stocking) Stocking Stuffers

I know.  Stockings INSIDE of stockings?  Your head may have just exploded.  But piece it back together and consider how happy any lingerie addict would be to wake up on Christmas day and instead of finding in her Christmas stocking a deck of cards, chap stick, Hershey’s bar or lump of coal, she pulls out a gorgeous pair of stockings!

First, a little about the tradition of Christmas stockings.  Considered ahistorically, it does seem a bit odd to hang things that normally contain feet, in expectation of receiving gifts in them.   There doesn’t seem to be a definitive written history of the tradition, but I’ve come across a few legends that do a bit of explaining.

In one, a fourth century European nobleman is reduced to penury after years of crop failures and famine on his property.  While he had begun his promising adulthood handsome, wealthy, and in love, he now must support the peasants nearby as well as his family.  When he suddenly finds himself a widower and sole guardian of his three beautiful daughters he is distraught not only over his wife’s death, but because he does not have enough money to pay for his daughters’ marriages.

He is a good man, and sympathetic words spread about his plight.  An unknown traveler named Nicholas hears and in the quiet of night comes to the man’s house in order to make a gift of gold coins to the man and his daughters.  When looking for a secure place to leave the gold, he sees the daughters’ stockings hanging on the mantel to dry, and fills them each with gold.

An early mention, possibly the first, of Christmas stockings being hung near a chimney was by the poet Clement Clarke Moore in the poem “T’was the Night Before Christmas.”

“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care
In hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there”

Around the same time, Santa Claus made his debut as a fully realized character in satirist  Thomas Nast‘s illustrations for “Harpers” in the mid 19th century.

Now that stocking gifting traditions have evolved from gold coins to fruits and nuts to more personal goodies, I’ve collected a few of my favorite combinations of Christmas stockings (the hang-by-the-chimney type) along with their hosiery-stocking counterparts to share with you.  So whether you’re playing Santa this year and need some stocking stuffer ideas or you’re collecting items for your own wish list or you’re a bystander in this Christmas affair and are simply a fan of hosiery, here are goodies for 5 tastes: Classic, Cute and Cozy, Pin up, Playful, and Burlesque.

Classic:

The Classic Christmas stocking, $17.50

Ah, the classic red stocking.  Always a winner.  Here’s an equally reliable winner in the hosiery department.  I like how the red bows are festive and fun but not overstated.

Ooh La La Cherie stocking from MadamGirl, $13.50

Cute and Cozy:

Gingerbread girl personalized stocking, $29.95

This is so charming and cute, it deserves a similarly adorable stuffer inside.  These tights are cozy and bring a fun spirit to winter while not being too juvenile.

Snowflake leggings, $16.99

Pinup:

Pinup Girl Christmas Stocking, Etsy, $50

So this may not be the right choice for every household, but its tongue-in-cheek sauciness is irresistible to me.  This pin up stocking deserves fishnets.

Jonathan Aston fishnet hold ups, Mytights, $12.95

Playful:

Etsy striped stocking, $200 for 4

These handmade modern interpretations of the traditional stocking are so bright and pretty I would want leave them up all year around.  Fun striped socks are also good for year round romps.

Striped Socks, SockWizard, $9.99

Burlesque:

Burlesque Christmas stocking, Etsy, $40

The grand finale!  This comic-sexy leg Christmas stocking is ingenious.  In homage to its clever creator, I would fill it with a lacy, delicate patterned stocking.  I love this one from a favorite brand, Wolford, because its lace-lookalike patterning is actually peacock feathers, which is a little unexpected and very cool.

Wolford Paradise Peacock tights, Bare Necessities, $42.99

What are your stocking traditions?  Share your wish list with us!

Laura a.k.a. Lola Haze

I’ve loved lingerie since before that was reasonable. I taught myself drawing, designing, and sewing, and after graduating from Harvard with an English degree, immediately went to work disregarding it and following my passion for fashion. After a few years designing for a big company, I went off on my own and started Lola Haze TM, (named after the title character in “Lolita,” my favorite book). Lola Haze is playwear for the bold woman who loves fun and dresses for herself! I feel happy and lucky that I get to love my job so much, and am thrilled to share my lingerie enthusiasm with The Lingerie Addict!

More Posts - Website

Follow Me:
TwitterFacebook

Lingerie of the Week: Wolford Marilyn Stay-Up Stockings

When I first started blogging, I used to regularly do “lust” features, which were basically items of lingerie I loved but would never be able to afford. This week’s Lingerie of the Week is very definitely a lust feature.

Wolford has always had a special place in my lingerie-loving heart. Every season, they come with brand new styles and trends and patterns that make everyone else’s hosiery look, well, average. And the quality of their hosiery is always impeccable. You can buy a pair of Wolford’s today, and with handwashing and proper care, still be wearing them years from now. Literally.

Wolford’s Marilyn Stay Ups are very French can-can to me. The fishnet combined with the flirty bows and the little flashes of skin is a little bit fun and a lot seductive. Hopefully, I’ll be able to snag a pair on sale. Though, in retrospect, maybe that’s the wrong choice of words.

What do you think of the Marilyn stockings or of Wolford hosiery in general? Let’s chat in the comments.

Stockings available via La Petite Coquette and Wolford’s online shop for $165.00

Treacle

Treacle

Lingerie Blogger. Sugar Junkie. Sci-Fi Geek.

More Posts - Website

Follow Me:
TwitterFacebookLinkedInPinterestGoogle PlusFlickrStumbleUponYouTube

Cosmetic Lingerie: 6 Intelligent Products Designed to Make You More Beautiful

Today’s modern woman is a mover. She’s a shaker. And all she asks is for her daily products to keep pace with her active lifestyle. If you’re one of these active women today then you know how hectic life can be living on the go. We aim to keep our lives full and have therefore learned to multitask and juggle numerous tasks at once. Working, socializing, raising families & still maintaining quality time for ourselves is not an easy feat these days as time has become such a precious commodity. Yet our lives are not slowing down anytime soon which is why we continue to trudge forward, give it our all and often accept the consequences of stress & fatigue.

So it’s no surprise that in this day and age of multitasking, people are asking more of their products. Performing double duty is becoming less of an exception and more the norm, as we are no longer content juggling multiple items in addition to our busy lifestyles. We need smarter products & duel technology. We are already well on our way in the field of electronics (hello smartphone) but what about our clothing? Specifically, what about our underwear?

Lingerie designers are constantly working to create the next great fabric, bra or shapewear and many of their efforts have been garnering attention lately for their claims of working overtime to not only serve you in your underwear needs but to also beautify you as you wear them. Feeling too fat? Change your underwear! Complexion looking too pasty? Change your underwear! Since these garments are closest to our skin for the majority of our day it makes sense to infuse them with products to help us make the most of our lives.

Only the test of time will determine how functional these products ultimately are as the proof is in the results. But so far many reviews for lingerie created with these “cosmetotextiles” have been impressive. After attending a cosmetotextile lecture earlier this month my interest has been piqued and I expect we’ll be seeing a lot more of these innovations on the market soon.

Here are 6 beautifying undergarments designed to work smarter for you:

1) ShaToBu Shaper

ShaToBu (short for Shape, Tone & Burn) is an innovative line of body shapers designed to help you slim and tone your body just from daily wear. The secret is in the built in resistance bands on key areas of the garment, designed to target specific muscles that will then naturally become engaged during every day activities such as walking or climbing stairs. Engaging these muscles will result in more calories burned without having to change your daily routine. Available in a thigh shaper, tummy shaper or tights at www.shatobu.com

2) Jockey Staycool Underwear

Jockey has long been a trusted name in underwear so their new Staycool line with temperature regulating technology has been garnering a lot of attention lately. Endorsed by football star Tim Tebow, this new line utilizes fabrics initially developed for astronauts that are coated with heat absorbing molecules called thermocules. These thermocules are designed to absorb the heat that our body radiates in order to maintain optimal external body temperature and help your skin feel up to 3 degrees cooler. Ideal for workouts and hot summer days these tops and panties are available at www.jockey.com

3) Skinkiss Tights

Skinkiss first came onto the scene as a producer of caffeine infused tights designed to minimalize cellulite and tone legs. However their fake tan tights have recently gotten a lot of press due to their claim to provide a natural faux glow with just one wear. Simply slip on a pair of these tights for 10 minutes, massage your legs and then remove. Although they are only good for one application the tights may then be washed and reworn as basic pantyhose for multiple future wears. Available at www.tightsplease.co.uk

4) Knock Out Panties

Knock Out smart panties were designed to combat the embarrassing issue of wetness and odor that most women experience from time to time. Their patented No Trace technology claims that it will keep you fresh with its quick one-way moisture wicking properties that allow both skin and fabric to stay dry all day long. The trick lies in the built in odor encapsulating “pocket” molecules that traps odors until the fabric is washed so you can feel confident and clean throughout your day. Perfect for working out, light days & the occasional leak, Knock Out panties are available at www.knockoutpanties.com

5) Wolford Shapewear Legwear

Wolford is one of the leading suppliers of luxury hosiery so it’s no surprise that they offer a wide range of functional tights in addition to the fashion & quality styles they are known for. Their leg support tights are specifically designed to increase circulation and prevent tired, swollen legs that can lead to premature varicose veins. The double wrapped elastine fibers have a stimulating and energizing effect that envelops your legs for all day comfort and energy. Available at www.wolford.com

6) Wick’em Bra Liner

Wick’em bra liners are a new and innovative solution to a continuous problem many women encounter. They are specially designed to wick away moisture from underneath the breasts for drier and less irritated skin. The liners are designed to be inserted underneath the bottom bra band between the skin and fabric so it can be worn with any of your favorite bras. The soft cushioned fabric wicks away moisture into the foam padding to keep you drier when you need it most. Wick’em also offers Sensitive Skin liners specifically to protect the sensitive area under the breasts and prevent rashes or irritation. Perfect for women with skin allergies or who tend to sweat a lot. These liners can be found at www.herroom.com

How do you feel about these smart products? Do you believe the hype? And have you ever tried any cosmeto lingerie before? Did they live up to their claim?

Kristina

Kristina

Lingerie Designer specializing in fashion & trend.

More Posts

Sponsored Post: 12 Super Sexy Lingerie Gifts from Bare Necessities

I’m pretty comfortable with lingerie now, but I remember how intimidating the world of intimates was when I first became interested in it. All those brands…all those prices…all those materials….I had no idea where to start. And I was way too uncomfortable (not to mention way too broke) to stop by my local lingerie boutique.

If this sounds a little bit like you (or even if it doesn’t), Bare Necessities is your one-stop shop for lingerie this holiday season. Not only do they carry tons of brands to fit every body and every budget, they also have one of the easiest return policies in the industry. Don’t like what you ordered? Just send it back…no questions asked.

Below is a list of 12 sets I love this holiday season. With prices ranging from $32 to $345 and sizing options from A cup to G cup, believe me when I say there’s a little something here for everybody.

Escante Lace Babydoll & Coat w/ Matching Panty
$32.00
Falke ‘Embroidery’ Stay Up Thigh High Stockings
$49.00
Jezebel ‘Edgy Girl’ Push Up Bra & Ruffled Boyshorts
$51.00
Felina ‘Germaine’ Contour Bra & Low Rise Thong
$57.00
Parfait by Affinitas Honey Underwire Babydoll
$65.00
Hanky Panky ‘Silky Skin Luxe’ Bralette & Thong
$94.00
Elomi ‘Lara’ Bra & Brief
$100.00
Hanky Panky ‘After Midnight’ High Waist Open Gusset Panty & Peek-a-Boo Bralette
$102.00
Marlies Dekkers ‘Favourites’ Push Up Bra & Thong
$148.00
La Perla Studio ‘Sweet Hearts’ Embroidered Bra & Thong
$185.00
La Perla ‘Smoking’ Lace and Silk Bra & Thong
$288.00
Wolford ‘Roses’ Lace Net Backseam Tights
$345.00

Sponsored Post: What Would You Buy in a $1,000 Shopping Spree at Bare Necessities?

Note: This post is a sponsored post on behalf of Bare Necessities. All words written here are my own.

Just a few weeks ago, Bare Necessities sold its 5 millionth bra, and to celebrate that milestone, they’re giving away five $1,000 shopping sprees in their biggest lingerie sweepstakes ever. 

Bare Necessities was recently named InStyle Magazine’s top online lingerie store, and since they carry something like 170 brands, I can see why. Honestly, it can be a little overwhelming to navigate, so to help the sweepstakes entrants (and eventual winners!) get a sense of what they’d like to buy, Bare Necessities asked a few of their fave bloggers, editors, and style consultants to construct their own $1,000 lingerie wardrobes. The Lingerie Addict was one of the bloggers chosen and you can find my $1,000 wardrobe here under Treacle’s Lingerie Picks.

The one thing that page doesn’t tell you, though, is why I chose those pieces. So I thought it’d be good to spend a little time now talking about why a few of the items on the list are among my faves.


Wacoal Lace Embrace Bra ($46, matching panty: $27)–I love lingerie that manages to be sexy and wearable at the same time and this Wacoal bra is it. The embroidery, the detailing, the fit…I’ve seen bras in this style that cost three times as much. Best of all, it’s so comfy that it makes great everyday piece. Available in sizes 32B to 40DD.

Hanky Panky Lace Boyshorts ($29, matching bra: $56)–One of the questions I’m asked often is what lingerie I personally wear everyday, and Hanky Panky is always at the top of that list. I tried them for the first time a few months ago, and I’ve been hooked ever since. This is a brand that lives up to the hype, and these lace boyshorts are impossibly comfortable. Available in sizes XS to 3X (search for the plus size option).
Wolford The Twenties Fishnet ($45)–It probably not a surprise, but I love fishnets, and these Wolford Twenties are the most durable ones I’ve found. Not only do they last forever (as in years instead of months), they’re incredibly comfortable. I like tights that you can put on and forget you’re wearing. These are it. Available in sizes XS to L.
Flower Breast Petals, 3-Pack ($6)–Every once in awhile, I need to go braless, but I still don’t want to deal with my nipples showing through my clothes…which is why I keep a supply of these in my cabinet. They’re perfect for making sure your metaphorical headlights stay off. One size fits all.
Commando Big Dot Premier Sheer Tights ($32)–I’ve tried almost every brand of tights out there, but these tights  solved a problem I never even knew I had…a too-narrow waistband. You’ve heard of laser cut panties? Well, this is laser cut hosiery, and it’s insanely comfortable (I just noticed I’m talking about comfort a lot in this blog post). Available in sizes S to L.
Cosabella Soire Wire-free Bra ($46, matching hot short: $28)–I live in bralettes. And sheer black mesh is quite possibly my most fave lingerie material after lace and silk. So I was really excited to find a bra that not only fits like a dream, but is so lightweight and breathable, you literally forget you have it on. If we’re talking everyday lingerie, Cosabella is another of those brands I can’t live without. Available in sizes XS to XL.
Falke Seidenglatt Shine Stay-up Thigh Highs ($36)–Usually I talk about the Falke peacock welt stockings here, but today I thought I’d change it up with another pair of Falke thigh highs I really love…their shiny, sheer Seidenglatts. With a slight sheen and an ultra-wide French lace band, these are the stockings that come to mind when you think thigh highs. And the silicone welt is wonderfully comfortable even for larger thighs (like my own). Available in sizes S to L.
Have you entered the sweepstakes yet? You can find the entry form here. And if you see something you must have now, why not shop the Friends & Family sale? You’ll save 25% with the code FRIEND thru October 31st.

Top Photo: Marlies Dekkers Reveille Moi Bra Set…a new arrival to Bare Necessities and the latest addition to the lust list.

Luxury Lingerie Sales: Selections from Myla, Wolford & Agent Provocateur

A lot of people don’t know this, but lingerie actually has seasons in the same way the mainstream fashion industry does.  And just like “normal” fashion stores have to clear out old merchandise before getting the new stuff in, so do lingerie stores.  What that means for you and me, as lingerie consumers, is lots of amazing sales on some of the most expensive brands.

Yesterday, I posted about What Katie Did’s semi-annual sale, and in less than 24 hours almost everything of note is sold out.  Fortunately, there are still a few other luxury lingerie sales in progress right now.  Wolford and Myla are both taking up to 50% off select lines, while Agent Provocateur is reducing prices by up to 75%.  Of course as with most good things, there’s a bit of a catch, and this one is the limited size availability.

If you are a B or C cup up top and wear a Medium on the bottom (i.e. you’re more or less average), your size is probably already sold out.  But if you are very curvy or very petite, you’ll likely find some great deals.  Here are a just a few of my favorite selections from each of the stores mentioned in the title.  If you do buy something, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.  Happy Shopping!

Myla Lingerie – Up to 50% Off



Agent Provocateur–Up to 75% Off

Wolford Online Boutique–Up to 50% Off