Bolero Beachwear DD+ Hanky Dress Review (and a special discount for you!)

For ladies with larger busts, finding a proper fit in a dress can be a difficult task.  Its frustrating to see a pretty dress on a store rack but, if you are like me, you quickly assess it for stretch and usually then just walk away.  Clothing designed especially to accommodate larger breasts can be daunting to source out and so I am pleased today to bring you a new dress review from Bolero Beachwear!

A few months ago, we interviewed Bolero’s owner Patricia McCaw and that interview was featured in our Retailer Spotlight which you can read HERE.

Bolero offers a fun and fashionable line of unique, high quality DD+  dresses and tops which are manufactured ethically in the United States, where the Company is based.  Supporting a woman-owned business and ethical manufacturing is something we can all get behind, isn’t it?!   I was kindly sent the Style #12 Hanky Dress in size X-Small in the DD+ line, in the blue peacock colourway (this dress can also be ordered in black & white, purple or turquoise peacock prints).   The Bolero website picture below shows the black and white version.

To give you a little bit of background info, I asked Bolero’s owner Patricia what her inspiration was in designing this dress:

This style was inspired by a hanky dress that I made for myself years ago and every time I wore it, I got so many compliments and people asking me where can they get it?

I  realized that was just the perfect dress for events and parties and so I designed a hanky dress especially for our line.  Since so many women prefer sleeves, I added the sexy peekaboo sleeves thinking that would  be perfect for any season.

When I received the peacock print material, it was like the fabric was talking to me and telling me it wanted to be a hanky dress 🙂  The movement of the dress, the fit, the sheer trim at the bottom, the lined top, all was technically designed to fit and flatter our busty and curvy customers with love<3

Close Up of Fabric (at hem of skirt):

 

I love the ‘cold shoulder’ trend but one thing I typically have trouble with is that my bra straps always seem to end up exposed and I really detest that look.  This dress thankfully was thoughtfully designed and the fabric lays perfectly over my bra straps (for reference, in my pictures I am wearing my Ewa Michalak S Kleks bra under my Bolero hanky dress).

I also adore the asymmetrical handkerchief hem on the skirt.  This cut gives a very flattering drape over the hips.  The flared skirt is perfect for a twirl on the dance floor, or just a sexy swish as you walk!

The fabric content on this dress is 90% polyester and 10% spandex, making it easy care –  completely wrinkle free and quick drying.

 This dress will make a great travel-friendly holiday dress but alas, I am currently in cold Canada, in the dead of winter, in a deep freeze 😦  Still, I thought to myself – I bet this pretty little piece could easily be styled into something perfectly suitable for a day in the Great White North, no? Yes!

I decided to play up the black in the dress pattern for my winter look, and to play up the white and silvery sequins in the dress fabric for my summer look.

Winter Styling:

I’ve easily given the dress a completely different look by covering the top with a simple black sweater and tall black boots.  The sweater is from Canadian company Rickis (no longer available) but I’ve found a very similar one HERE.   A black cardigan or blazer would be great options too.   My black suede Cole Haan boots are from a past season but I’ve found a similar pair HERE.  In keeping with playing up the black, I’ve accessorized with my beautiful black pearl  choker (similar one HERE).

Now lets take a look at how I’d wear the dress if I was somewhere with better weather than Canada has right now . . . say for example the Caribbean!  Fingers crossed for a holiday soon!!!

Summer Styling:

For this look, I’ve simply added a pair of strappy silver wedges (similar style HERE), a white gold multi-strand necklace (similar style HERE), and my Raymond Wiel Jasmine watch.   A white or silver/grey shawl or cardigan would be a nice addition for cooler evenings.

Its worth noting that Bolero will happily customize their dresses.  By emailing with instructions / questions,  skirts can be made shorter or longer and tops can be adjusted for proportion.  You will find that they really love to hear from potential customers and get as much information as they can before they ship orders out.

As far as sizing goes, I would say this runs true to size for an Extra Small, and would fit well for those in  the approximate size 2 to 4 range.  I’ m currently wearing a 30GG UK bra and there wouldn’t be too much more bust room in the XS size.   I’ve packed on some extra pounds (blame a combination of menopause / Christmas indulging / laziness) and am currently around 130 lbs and I’m 5’4″.   I think the length of this dress is perfect for me but next time I order, I will choose a Small as the Extra Small is slightly snug at this weight.  Either that or go back to the gym and quit eating junk food! 😛

Be sure to check out the DD+ line on Bolero’s website.  I bet you’ll find something you like!  And, especially for our AEE readers, Bolero has kindly provided a discount code!  Use code ENHANCED15 when you place an order and enjoy 15% off!   Bolero Beachwear dresses can be purchased online through the Bolero website HERE or at select retailers.  Don’t forget to like Bolero’s Facebook page as well so you can keep abreast 🙂 of new styles and info!

 

 

Ewa Michalak’s S, SM and SF Styles – Battle of the Bras

With the recent debut of the new SF style (review HERE) from Ewa Michalak, we thought it would be helpful to our readers if we did a comparison of the S, SM and SF styles for you. Although all three styles are similar, they have distinct differences that I will point out that make each one unique and might have you favoring one over the others.

S Kwaity

 I’d like to first do a short recap the three styles for you, starting with the classic S style. The S is a lightly padded balconette with a higher gore and comes with removable push-up pads to give you that extra oomph and/or help with asymmetry correction.

SM Amorek

Next is the SM, which is an unlined balconette with a higher gore and cups made of a stable (non-stretchy) material, typically lace or mesh. This style does not come with removable push-up pads.

SF Gladzioch bez

Lastly we will recap the SF, or Semi-soFt style which the most recent style debuted in the EM line. The SF is a good compromise between the S and SM, being a semi-padded bra with the same high gore as the other two. Like the SM, this style doesn’t come with removable push-up pads. The bottom of the cups are made of a stable (non-stretchy) material while the top of the cups is made of a double layer of elastic tulle, allowing for more stretch and forgiveness up top.

Now that you know the basics of each style, I’d like to get into comparing the three for you.  Let’s start with their similarities. All three styles come with three or four rows of two or three hook and eyes (depending on size of the bra) as well as fully adjustable straps. They also all are designed in a way that pulls your breasts forward to create maximum cleavage. Due to the medium-to-high gore on these styles (3″ tall on my 65GGs), they are well suited for softer breasts that tend to fall in the center when wearing a bra with a low gore such as the PL style, or if you have wide cleavage and want to pull your breasts closer. The down-side to the higher gore is that these styles can be difficult for women with very close-set breasts, as the gore can tend to sit on the tissue (or implant). Lastly, the cup height is mid-level which makes this an ideal bra to wear with a medium neckline, but may be difficult with a lower cut top.

Since we have covered the general style and similarities of these three bras lets move on to what makes them so different, and that really is their cups.  Aside from the classic S style being the only one of the three that comes with pockets for removable pads or “cookies”, it also has light padding sewn into the cup.  The positives: it gives you a little extra oomph without feeling like you are wearing a really padded bra; it covers your nips for modesty (no nipping out in this bra); and the lining is very soft against your skin.  The negatives: in warmer weather this bra can be a little hot, creating the dreaded boob sweat we all hate; and if you already feel like your breasts are big enough, the padding on this bra may not be something you are looking for.  The cups of the SM style are pretty much the exact opposite of the S.  This style does not come with removable pads and is constructed of very thin and shear material.  The positives: this bra is a godsend in warm weather, as the cup material is light and airy; and although it pulls your breasts front-and-center, with no padding it doesn’t add any extra bulk to your boobs.  The negatives: if you are more modest (or your office seems to always be frigidly cold like mine is), this bra is going to have you nipping out a bit; and since this bra has no padding or cookies, the sizing is not very forgiving so you will need to have your size down and may not work well if you have a lot of asymmetry.  Last is the SF, which really seems to marry the S and SM together.  Like the SM, this style does not come with removable pads, however the cup is made with a slightly thicker material so it is not sheer.  Also, if you love the shape that the S style gives you but you find that the top of the cups are too closed off, the SF is a great alternative since the tulle at the top allows for more FoT breasts without creating that “muffin top” look that the S style can sometimes make.  The positives: if you like the modesty of the S style but don’t want a padded bra, this is a great compromise; and if you need more room at the top of your cup, this is a great style.  The negatives: like with the SM, since there is no padding, you really need to know your sizing.  NOTE: Another difference I noticed with the SF is that the cups are more full coverage on this bra than on the S or SM styles.

As far as which is the best style?  I really don’t think any of them are the “best”, as I think that they all serve a purpose, and in my opinion all deserve a spot in your wardrobe 🙂  Personally, I prefer the S style and wear that the majority of the time.  However, on super hot days I will chose between the SM and the SF, and which one I choose is 100% dependent on if I am going to work or not.  As I mentioned earlier, my office building is always freezing and I hate worrying about if my nips are showing, so if I’m going to work then I will wear the SF.  But if it is hot out and I am going to be outside, I almost always reach for my SM.  A small little side note about the SM style for those of you who are also enhanced like me: since I have very little natural tissue and no hang, my breasts do not fill out the very bottom of my cups (a very common thing among implanted ladies).  Though this happens in all my bras, since the SM is sheer it is the only bra where I actually see that gap.  It’s not a big deal, but it did worry me the first time I tried the SM, until I found out this is normal.

If you haven’t tried any of these styles before, my suggestion is always to start with the classic S style first and really get your sizing down.  Once you know what size you are in Ewa Michalak, then branch out to the other styles.  As a quick tip, the SM and the SF do seem to typically run a little big in the cups (or seem that way since there isn’t any padding to fill the cup out a bit), so I might suggest getting a cup size smaller in these styles 😉  I hope you have enjoyed this review and please let us know if you have any questions!

Review: The Dark & Mysterious Ewa Michalak S Kleks

I remember the day that I spotted BM Kleks on the Ewa Michalak website.

It is described on the site as follows:

What’s left after Ink run out in the inkwell? – blot of ink => Kleks 😉
Do you happen to like dark-coloured underwear but feel fed up with black bras? …so there’s a bra ideal for you.
Bra made of fine elastic lace in deep navy blue with black knitwear underlayer will definitely meet your expectations.

I was intrigued.  That colour!  That perfect, mysterious shade of midnight blue.  As dark as the night sky, as deep as the darkest secret.  I was hooked.   I wanted it.  Except that Kleks is currently offered in BM style only.  The BM style, in case you don’t know, is an unpadded balconette bra with stretch lace on the top section of the cups.  If you are unfamiliar with the various styles, click HERE and read our blog post on this subject.  I have a thing for S and SM style bras, but I don’t have a thing for BM style bras.  So, I tried to just not look at the BM Kleks but oh that colour!  As dark as my very heart!  It was calling me.  I needed it.   So I did what any reasonable woman would do.  I wrote to Kaska who takes care of emails at Ewa Michalak and I begged to have Kleks made as an S style  ….and my wish was granted!  Note:  style change requests are at the sole discretion of Ewa Michalak, cost an additional 40 PLN and will make the item a final sale (not returnable).  

You might notice that the stock picture of this bra in BM style shows bows on the shoulder straps and mine has only the bow at the gore.  They are described on the site as ‘bows with bijou pendants just like stars in cloudy sky brighten this murky colour.’  I wanted those shoulder stars so I was a bit sad to see that they had not been included on my S Kleks, but beggars can’t always be choosers and when you deviate from the original, sometimes there can be changes.  I will try to survive without my shoulder stars.

My custom S Kleks is in size 30GG.  The cups fit me well and in typical fashion for S style in that size.  The band measures approximately 25 inches unstretched and approximately 30 inches stretched without cup distortion and feels comfortable on my 27″ rib cage.  I will say though that I can stretch it to 32 without much trouble although there was wire distortion present.  Ladies who like their bands extra firm may want to take that into consideration.

If you read my blog posts regularly you will know that I am a sucker for a matching set.  I only like full brief style panties and I really prefer elastic around the leg band.  That style has been in short supply lately in the newest EM offerings but I have to admit that the appearance of these panties with the black tulle peeking out from beneath the blue lace is pretty much to die for. I ordered the Klek full briefs in my usual size 36.  They fit well and I love this look, even though it isn’t my top style for comfort.

Here is the stock picture:

And here is a close-up of mine.  See what I mean about that black tulle peeking out from under that navy lace?  Just beautiful.  ❤

Kleks is a welcome addition to my collection with its unexpected and unusual dark colour combination.  I do adore it, even without all of its stars, and am looking forward to wearing it once the weather cools.  (In hot weather, I prefer the cooler, unlined SM style bras).

 

At time of writing, Kleks is still available on the Ewa Michalak site as a BM style bra.  The matching panties are currently available as well, offered in both full brief and thong styles.  Have you made this pretty set part of your collection?

 

Feeling Fab in Lilly & Lime!

Something I didn’t realize when deciding to get larger implants was how it would affect swim suit shopping.  It’s truly a pain!!  I was already wearing my proper fitting bras but when wearing swimwear you are very exposed and there’s always a chance of something showing that you would rather keep covered.  Showing off copious amounts of cleavage can be a bit awkward in public, especially when I’m with my 2 youngest kiddos and they are boys!  Suffice to say it’s been a struggle trying to find a cute and modest swim top as I prefer bikinis and triangle tops are much too revealing unless I’m staying in my own pool and not allowing visitors.  I have also struggled with very, very close set breasts so I was doubtful that anything other than a low plunge would work.  In fact, at first I told my fellow bloggers that I shouldn’t even try the suit for fear of it not working for my shape but boy am I glad I did after all (hint…I love it!).   I was kindly gifted the Stripe Balconette and the matching Stripe Hipster Tie Bottom by Lilly and Lime, a new Australian based swimwear company specializing in swimwear for D cup and up.  I was pleasantly surprised when I opened my package to find a very cute tote with my bikini inside, a special touch by the company that stood out to me.  I was even happier once I tried on my suit and my doubts soon faded as I finally found a modest and super cute bikini top that I can proudly wear in public.

I was sent the Stripe Balconette style in a 30GG which is my UK size and it’s the size I usually wear in Ewa Michalak unlined styles as well (this might help my fellow Polish bra junkies out there..wink…wink!).  The Balconette is the only style that has the option to be worn with or without straps which are fully adjustable.  For fun you could even cross the straps in the back!  As for fit…The band has a plastic clasp closure and is rather loose so I would definitely prefer a 28H so I could safely and securely wear it as the strapless option to avoid those extra tan lines.  The cups fit almost perfectly with nice projection and I would say they are comparable to my other 30GG bras but I would prefer the wires to be just a bit narrower.  The cups are lined with foam and there are no removable pads making it a stiff fit at first but the longer I had the top on the more it molded to my breasts and I must add that when the top is wet it kept it’s shape nicely.  I’m  also happy to report that my breasts were nicely separated  and the gore was actually comfortable!  This really shocked me as I have a very difficult time with high gores and this one is pretty wide too …good thing I didn’t judge it until I tried it 🙂  The wires are on the softer side so that probably contributes to the comfort, a huge bonus since that’s just as important as being cute for me.  As for support, I can’t accurately comment since the band is too loose for me to properly judge.  The bottoms are very cheeky for me;  I received a size 12 in the Stripe Hipster Tie bottom,  I usually wear a large or size 8 in US sizes.

I am an older mom of four and I nervously told my fellow bloggers that I didn’t think there was any way on Earth I could wear these cheeky bottoms after seeing pictures of other,  much younger girls in them.  Guess what …shocked again,  they look pretty decent and the ties are just the right fun touch.  I would still prefer more coverage in public and definitely in the waves but for floating in my pool they are perfect.  The fabric is very high quality, nicely lined and there’s a very cute Lilly and Lime signature metal tag detail that I love!  The stripes are a vibrant purple/blue shade and white…very hip and fun and for a twist this pattern would look super cute interchanged with either the Nectarine top or bottom.

Overall I am ecstatic about this new suit,  I feel young and confident in it…nothing could be better then that right?!  I look forward to more from Lilly and Lime!  There aren’t many larger cup options in swimwear so I am thrilled to find this new choice…super cute vibrant prints and high quality!  A huge Thanks to Lilly and Lime for this beautiful bikini!  My Stripe Bikini was graciously provided for review by Lilly and Lime.  All opinions are my own. Peace! 🙂

Insider’s Scoop – Ewa Michalak Fairytale Purple!

Hey Ewa Michalak lovers! I have a bit of fun insider’s exclusive information for you today!   I bet you are wondering about the beauty in this picture and I’m not going to keep you suffering.  Allow us to present to you the ultra exclusive  to Bra Obsessed Ewa Michalak FairyTale Purple!

Only 13 have been made so far.  Mine and MsDizz’s, Yoomee’s is in the mail on its way to her, and ten other people in the world currently have one.  This gorgeous bra is a true exclusive to Bra Obsessed.  It will not be released by Ewa Michalak at any time in the future.  Would you like to have one too?  Then I have great news for you!  I’ve just heard that up to 20 more sets can be made with this special fabric.

Standard cut on Fairytale Purple is PL style.  MsDizz is modelling her PL for you in size 30H (65H) below.

For an additional $15 CAD you can request it in S style which is what I did.  I am modelling my S in size 30GG (65GG) below.

Take a look at these gorgeous details:

I love a bit of contrasting colour on the straps.

Its purple.  Need I say more?

The lace overlay goes all the way around the back of the band.  Unexpected and pretty!

My 30 (65) band measures approximately 23.5″ unstretched and approximately 31″ stretched before I notice any significant wire distortion.  MsDizz also noticed that her band felt loose so you may want to consider sizing down in the band on this one.  Tip:  Remember that if you size down in the band, you need to size up in the cup to compensate.  For example going from a 65GG, to get the same volume in a 60 band you would increase the cup one size up and order 60H.

Matching panties or thongs are available.  Here are my panties:

Note that they have the frilly, non-elastic finish on the bum.  Beautiful set / not my favourite style of panties but a girl has to do what a girl has to do to have the matching set.

Yoomee will show off hers when it arrives but we wanted to get this information to you today so that you don’t miss your opportunity to order this very special, extremely limited set.  You can place your order by emailing Bra Obsessed at bras@braobsessed.com.  Don’t forget to take a look on the Bra Obsessed site at the other two exclusive limited edition Ewa Michalak offerings, the Chalet and the Blekitek !

Ewa Michalak’s BM Naomi

In my continued quest to try every style of Ewa Michalak bra that is available in my size, as well as stock up on more summer, boob-sweat minimizing bras, I decided that the next style I had to try was the BM.  Like the SM style, the BM is an unlined balconette; and when I saw the new BM Naomi debut a couple of months ago, I knew that was the one for me!  

Stock photo

I ordered Naomi, along with the gorgeous S Opium (click HERE for review) from the lovely Jaimie at Bra Obsessed and was thrilled when I got it in the mail the other day!  Although it may look like just a plain brown bra on the website, like pretty much every Ewa bra, it is quite stunning in person.  A big surprise was that there is quite a purple undertone to this bra, with the band being only a shade or two off from the color of my S Glamour (click HERE for review) with a shiny satin look and feel.  On my 65GG, the band has the usual four rows of 3 hooks and eyes and is on the looser side with me being able to stretch it to about 32 inches before much wire distortion occurs, so if you like a firm band you may want to size down in this one.   TIP: Remember that when you size down in band, you will want to size up in cup to keep the same cup size. The band also is reinforced with a black mesh lining on the inner side for extra comfort and a more luxurious feel. The straps have a shiny satin sheen as well, and are fully adjustable for your comfort preference.  

The cups of the BM Naomi are made up of three-parts made of a stretchy floral lace in a deeper brown, but still with a purple undertone.  The bottom parts of the cup are lined with black mesh that comes up the side to meet the straps.  This mesh lining helps with the structure of the bra since the lace has stretch to it and keeps your breasts feeling secure and supported.  In typical Ewa fashion, no bra would be complete without it’s beautiful details and Naomi is no exception.  This bra has matching polka dot bows at the gore and straps making it both fun and flirty 😉

Now that we are done with the technical stuff, let me tell you how it feels 🙂  The first thing I noticed when I put Naomi on was how incredibly comfortable it is.  The stretch of the lace molded perfectly to my boobs and the band made me feel very supported (even though I had to wear it on the third tightest row of hooks). I was also very pleased that it wore extremely smoothly under shirts and I didn’t notice any lines showing through at all.  I have tan skin (I am currently somewhere between the color of Triumf and Naomi), and get fairly dark in the summer months, so Naomi is a perfect “nude” bra for me.  One thing I noticed the first day I wore it was that for some reason the bra made my boobs itch just a little bit.  But when I wore it a second time I didn’t notice it anymore, so I’m not quite sure what that was about!

I can honestly say I don’t really have anything negative to say about this bra, and I’d even venture to say that I find it more comfortable than either of the SMs I currently own (Triumf and Amorek), though they are very comfortable as well.  For those of you ladies who have more (or all) natural breast tissue and have some natural sag or hang, I have heard that the BM is a bit more minimizing than the SM style, which could be a positive or a negative depending on the look you are going for.  For me, who has very little natural tissue and zero sag or hang, I don’t see much of a difference between the two styles as far as the look.  It is definitely not going to give you the BAM! look that the S style does, but if you are looking for a light, airy, comfortable and supportive bra, this might be just the one for you!

Stock photo -Naomi Brief

Stock photo – Naomi Thong

Lastly, if you are looking to make this bra into a set, Ewa offers both the Naomi brief (for you ladies who are on #TeamFullBum) as well as the Naomi thong (for girls on #TeamButtCrack 😉 ).  I, unfortunately had to pass on the undies this time around as my wallet was already screaming in protest!  I hope you enjoyed this review and please stay tuned, our summer review line up is just warming up 🙂

Is Ewa’s New Semi-soFt Right for You?

As anyone who loves Polish lingerie knows, Ewa Michalak is not just known for the gorgeous look of her bras, but also for designing different styles to accommodate the many types of breasts there are.  Unlike most lingerie companies that might have a few different styles and then scale their sizes, Ewa currently offers about 13 different styles of bras to accommodate almost any type of boobs, from small to big, close-set to wide, FoT or FoB, firm or soft.  The most recent style that Ewa has designed is the SF, which stands for Semi-soFt.  As soon as this new style was posted on the Ewa Michalak Facebook page I was immediately intrigued.  And when she offered to send me the SF Gladzioch bez set (including the Bibi bezowa Perla thong) as a gift so that I could wear and review it for our readers, I was beyond thankful, as I know that many of our readers are just as curious about this new style as I was!   Note: Although this bra was gifted for review purposes, all thoughts and opinions are my own and given with full honesty and disclosure.

Upon first glance of the SF Gladzioch bez, you’re probably thinking what I was thinking, which is that it definitely lacks the pizzazz that Ewa bras are known for, looking more like a plain nude bra.  However, when you see it in person it’s hard not to appreciate the simple elegance that it exudes.  The four-part cup is made of a shiny nude fabric on the bottom 3-parts, and a double layer of elastic tulle on the top.  And no Ewa bra would be complete without the signature details that make her bras so fun and special; in keeping with simple elegance there are small buttons placed at the gore and straps.  It actually reminds me of an elegant, understated wedding gown with the shiny satin and tulle…though that might just be because I’m getting married soon and I have wedding dresses on the brain 😉 !  So although this may not be as “fun” as many of the other bras that have recently been released, please make no mistake that this is still a gorgeous Ewa bra!

According to the description of the SF on the Ewa Michalak website, this bra is meant for those who want more structure than an unlined bra provides, but don’t like the bulkiness of a padded bra, and I’d have to say that that description is pretty much spot on.  The SF is like the child  of the S and SM styles if they had a baby 🙂  The material on the bottom 3-parts of the cup is on the stiffer side, so it gives great structure and support without being bulky at all.  The tulle at the top of the cups allows for more coverage but because it is a very stretchy material, it doesn’t give you a closed in feeling like the S style can have. I actually think this would be a great style for women who have quite a bit of projection and/or are very FoT, especially if you want more coverage than a CHP provides without getting the “muffin top” that the S can give.  The band on this bra is very firm, so I would recommend considering sizing up if you usual size is already on the firm side.  

Upon trying the SF on, I was glad I chose to get a 65GG, which is the size I wear in the SM and BM styles (I’m in between a 65GG and 65H in the S style). This bra has a ton of projection so you’ll want to consider sizing down for this one, as it does not come with cookie pockets to help fill you out. The fit is very similar to the S style and gives a lot of BAM, which I love!  As I mentioned previously, the band is very firm (the firmest out of any of the 65s I own) and the gore gives me a very hard tack like my unlined bras do. I was worried that the stiff material might be scratchy or uncomfortable, but I was pleasantly surprised that it was quite comfortable and didn’t bother me at all.

I wore the SF for a full day, which is about 12 hours and here are my honest pros and cons. The pros are that I loved the shape it gave me and the fact that I felt very supported but not too warm (as my S styles can be in the hotter months of summer). And I do enjoy the very firm band and fully adjustable straps for comfort as well. I have a couple of cons though that I thought were worth mentioning as well. The first was that although I believe it is mentioned in the description as something that just naturally happens and is not a fault in the product, I didn’t really like that the tulle seemed to gather or wrinkle throughout the day. This may not happen if you have more projection to keep the material more taut, but I did notice it happened to me since the elastic tulle is very stretchy. I didn’t seem to notice it through my shirt, but when I peeked in under my shirt I saw it and would smooth it out. The second is more of a personal preference in that the gore has such a hard tack that by the end of the day I did feel it quite a bit. Nothing horrible, but more noticeable than I’d like. However, I notice that with my SM styles as well so if you like the fit and feel of the SM, I don’t think this is something you’d mind at all. 

As mentioned, to go along with the SF Gladzioch bez, I was also gifted the Bibi bezowa Perla thong.  These I got in a size 36, which I was a little worried would be too big, since my Amorek thong in the same size was a little on the loose side.  But those extra few pounds I have put on over the past few months must have filled in the space because the 36s were a perfect fit and the perfect complement to my new SF.  I especially love the little pearl accent on the back!  I must admit that I’m not a fan of all of Ewa’s thongs, as I feel some are a bit on the high-waisted side, with the band sitting at my navel.  But these fit just the way I like, with the band resting about an inch or two below.  The lace is very soft and as with the SF Gladzioch bez, they have a very bridal feel to them.  So much so that I may actually wear these on my wedding day 🙂

Overall, I really liked the SF and it’s a style I’d definitely purchase again once there are some fun colors and patterns to choose from!  If you enjoy the SM style and want a bit more structure or more modesty, I think this is a style you should strongly consider 🙂

 

Ewa Michalak S Opium Review

I recently took a road trip out to visit Jaimie at Bra Obsessed and picked up just a couple of things 😉

Jaimie had my change room ready to go before I had even arrived.  So much temptation!

Her shop truly is a Polish bra lover’s paradise!

Today I’m reviewing one of my purchases from that trip, the glorious Ewa Michalak S Opium.

I knew from the moment I first saw this set that I MUST have it.  Sometimes with floral prints I can take them or I can leave them, but this one was different.  This one is like a gorgeous water colour painting of poppies, done in the prettiest muted shades of pinks, peaches and lavenders with pops of bright pink throughout.  This colour scheme (and those pretty pink straps) make it a perfect choice for Spring and Summer.

I purchased my S Opium set in size  65GG (30GG) for the bra, with the matching full briefs in size 36.  I have recently gone up a cup in my bra size due to some unfortunate weight gain that seems intent on sticking around.  The 65GG is a perfect fit and for the first time in my personal Polish bra wearing history, I am able to keep the cookies (pads) in!   This 65 band measures approximately 23 inches unstretched, and approximately 30″ stretched (without starting cup distortion) after several washes and wears.  The band has a fairly firm feel to it.

Ewa Michalak S style bras are a favourite of mine as they keep me well anchored and provide an amazing up front and center, lifted appearance.   I rotate between the lined S style and the unlined SM style, depending on the weather.

Even though S is best for me for the reasons outlined above, other ladies have their own cut preferences.  My co-blogger MsDizz for example does best in the PL style and was able (by special request) to order her Opium in PL directly through Ewa Michalak.  This option is at the discretion of Ewa Michalak, but  if you see a bra you love that is available only in a cut that isn’t perfect for you, it doesn’t hurt to write and ask.  Note though that this will make the item a final sale (not returnable) and it does cost an extra 40 PLN to have the style changed.  If ordering through Bra Obsessed, you can email and enquire about the availability and cost of other cuts (all returnable when ordered through Bra Obsessed).

MsDizz ordered her PL Opium in size 65H and is modelling it for us in the picture below, without the cookies in.

The measurements for her 65H PL are approximately 23.5 inches unstretched and approximately 30.5 inches stretched and unlike me, she does not feel that the band is on the firm side.  Always interesting to have different perspectives and that is part of the beauty of having not just one but EIGHT bloggers here at An Enhanced Experience.

My co-blogger Tanzilove has Opium on order in CHP cut in size 80GG and she will be showing off her CHP Opium and giving her thoughts and opinions in an upcoming review.

I do love a matching set and these panties, worn with the bra, make for such a pretty, pulled together, flirty and fun look.   They are very comfortable and they don’t ride up during the day.  Here is a look at the panties, both front and back.

   

Speaking of a pulled together look,  I decided to have my nails done to match, just for fun.  This is Bio Seaweed Gel polish in 67 Passionfruit.   A pretty pairing, don’t you think?

I am expecting the SM Malinowy set very soon and that colour coordinates perfectly with Opium so that you can mix and match the bras and panty combinations between the two sets.

I think that deserves picking up something else to match!  A new lipstick perhaps?  Stay tuned for my Malinowy review to come soon and we’ll see what I can come up with.

 

 

SM Triumf a Nude Necessity

Where do I begin….well there was a long time in my life that I only wore nude or black bras with the most padding I could possibly find to help even out my figure.  I’ve always been extra small on top and after nursing 4 kiddos I was very deflated and lacked fullness.  Couple that with larger hips and I was left feeling disproportionate  until I had my breast augmentation.  I recently went through revision surgery and now I am very happy with my new proportions and I love wearing unlined bras for the first time in my life, no more thick  padding for me!  So my Polish bra obsession kicked in and I will admit that I need to have every shade of the rainbow and I also swore to never look for a beige bra again.  I often find myself matching my vibrant, colorful sets to whichever top I’ve chosen that day,  a beautiful red strap peeking out of a red blouse is fine with me 🙂  Alas there are times when those brilliant pops of color just won’t work under a white tee-shirt or light blouse and not having a completely nude bra just won’t suffice.  Just as I started my search Ewa Michalak released the gorgeous SM Triumf  (an unlined balconette style) and immediately knew I had to add it to my colorful collection.  Little did I know just how stunning this bra would be in person and you just can’t beat the trademark Ewa Michalak fit.  Narrow wires and great projection. are perfect for my augmented breasts and with it hitting 115 where I live in the summer months an unlined bra is a necessity!

The floral patterned lace of Triumf is intricate, but not too delicate and it is the perfect shade to completely disappear under a white top on my complexion.

The gore is narrow and the wires overlap slightly so it’s a wonderful fit for my very close set breasts.  I’ve noticed that Triumf along with a few other SM styles I’ve tried have a firmer band and the wires feel stronger,  I’m not sure if it’s literally a stronger wire or if it just feels that way since it’s an unlined bra lacking padding.  It’s as if there is wonderful support with an almost airy,  freeing feeling since there isn’t extra fabric and I absolutely love the lightness!  I get a nice lifted round shape with forward projection that looks great under a fitted tee-shirt so it is exactly what I needed for my collection, a very un-boring nude bra with a subtle sexiness.

I ordered SM Triumf in a 65gg after reading that the unlined styles by Ewa Michalak ran on the firm side and I found this to be very true as I stated previously.  It’s a perfect fit on the loosest hooks for my 26.5 underbust.  The 65gg has a 3 hook closure for added band support and in my experience I prefer the extra stability and comfort it provides.

The cups are a strong non-stretch lace and where the cup meets the strap the lace is doubled-up I assume for strength so the lace won’t tear.  The band itself is a satiny, stretchy material that is soft and luxurious.  Ewa Michalak never disappoints when it comes to adding the perfect little extra touches on her bras… from the tiny bow and round crystal gore detail to the scalloped lace edging on the tops of the cups,  this nude bra is a stunner.

In my pictures it may seem as if it’s cutting in a bit when in actuality that’s just my relaxed skin after 4 pregnancies,  I call it my bra roll,  in a grumbled voice of course.  The bra sits nicely in my crease and the gore tacks well, although after a few hours the gore sort of folds to the right or left over itself since my breasts sit so close together.  It’s not uncomfortable and I’m not sure if it’s just an augmented breast issue but I could see others experiencing the same thing if they are very center heavy.  The cups are the perfect depth and filled nicely.

I’m thrilled to have another well-fitting work of “bra art” by Ewa Michalak in a nude shade and just in time as we’ve had a few 100 degree days already!  Have you tried Triumf?  I would love to hear your thoughts and if you’ve been eyeing this beauty I suggest adding it to your collection,  you won’t be disappointed.

Ewa Michalak – SM Amorek

The SM style bra from Ewa Michalak has been one that I’ve honestly been a bit scared of since I first fell in love with Polish bras.  It’s a style that I’ve always thought was beautiful and sexy but never thought I’d buy since it is an unlined balconette, and I’ve never thought unlined bras did much for my bust.  But since my upgrade, I’ve felt more comfortable with my breast size so I decided to try it out.  The first SM I tried, the SM Wrozka was a complete flop (in my opinion).  The gore dug unrelentingly at my chest and made it impossible to wear for more than an hour or two and scared me away from the SM style for a whole year!  But with summer quickly approaching, and all the other AEE gals raving about how amazing the SM is (especially in the summer heat), I cautiously decided to give it another try.

Hearts added for modesty:)

 

In my direct order, along with S Glamour (review HERE) I ordered two SM style bras, the SM Triumph and the SM Amorek.  Amorek is a bra I had been admiring from afar for quite some time, ever since fellow AEE blogger, Baby had purchased it.  Amorek is the type of lingerie that screams Valentines Day, but really is perfect for any time you want to feel very pretty and girly.  The bra has pink mesh cups accented with cherry red satin ribbon across the 3-part cup and matching red scalloped lace across the top. The gore is accented with a small red heart, and there are red bows were the pink mesh meets the red straps.  The mesh cups do not have any design to them, so they are very see through, a huge plus in my hubby’s opinion 😉

Hearts added for modesty:)

As far as sizing goes, I was a little torn on what to order.  As I mentioned in a recent post, I am a 65GG 1/2, but I’ve been told that with some SM bras you want to size down (depending on if the cup ran big or not and due to the fact that the bra is unlined).  The SM cups do not have any stretch to them and obviously don’t come with the removable “cookies” that the lined Ewa bras do, so making sure that you get the right size is very important since you don’t have as much wiggle room as you do with lined bras.  After getting some guidance from my fellow bloggers, I ended up ordering a 65GG and it is a perfect fit.  As you may notice in the pictures above, there is a small amount of empty fabric under my breasts, right above the wire.  This is something that is very normal for enhanced breasts, especially if you don’t have much natural tissue.  My breasts don’t have any natural “hang” that would typically fill this space.

There are definitely pros and cons to the SM style (and this bra in particular), especially if you are a die hard S style girl like me. First, let’s go over the pros. The SM’s mesh cups are extremely light and breathable and I’m excited to wear this in the summer, as it’s going to greatly minimize the dreaded summer boob sweat 😉  The band is fairly firm and the straps are fully adjustable. The gore on this bra seems slightly lower than my S styles so it tacks very well and doesn’t cut into my cleavage at all. Also, because of the way the cup is cut and sewn into the straps, this bra gives great support even though the material is very thin. Lastly, because the SM is cut like the S (lined balconette version), it still pulls your breasts front and center giving great cleavage :). Now on to the cons. There are only two, and they aren’t big enough to stop me from wearing this beauty, but I feel like it wouldn’t be an accurate review if I didn’t mention them.  Both cons have to do with the ribbon that lines the seams of the cup, and I suppose you could lump them both into one, but I will speak of them individually. The first is that the bra doesn’t lay completely smooth under shirts, as the ribbon that lines the seams does show unless you are wearing a medium to thick material or one with lots of pattern. The second is that the ribbon sticks up at my nipples in a way that under certain shirts it appears that my nipples are always hard!  As shown in the picture above, when I am wearing the blue shirt that is made with thin material, you can see the seams very clearly; though in the black shirt with a medium weight material, you don’t see the seams (or nipples) much at all.  Neither con are very significant in my book, and certainly won’t stop me from wearing this bra!

As soon as Jelz (our resident “matching sets” girl) found out I was purchasing Amorek, she badgered me into getting the matching Amorek thong as well 😉 And since she’s never steered me wrong with the undies I can pass on and the ones I absolutely must buy, it was no surprise when I got them I was so glad that I did!  They are so cute and girly and really are the perfect complement to the bra.    I purchased these in a 36 (8) which is my usual Ewa undies size, but in my opinion they run a little big and could have easily fit in a size down.

As you can see in this picture, this really is a bra where you want to make it a set.  I have been extremely impressed with the SM Amorek and it has encouraged me to add more SMs to my collection.  If you are looking for a light summer bra, but want one with some fun and girly attitude, I definitely think this is the one for you!  Please make sure to stay tuned, as I am awaiting the arrival of the beautiful BM Naomi and will be posting a review on it as well as a comparison of the differences between the SM and BM styles 🙂