All About Fashion, Underwear and Everything Inbetween | Bravissimo Blog » Christmas

tis the season to be jolly

Bravissimo — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:58:48 +0000

The beginning of new week and hello to the Festive Season! As soon as December arrives there’s a collective sigh of relief as people begin to wind down towards the Christmas break. If you can ignore the over-commercial nature in the run up to Christmas it is still a really special time of year, and it’s possible to immerse yourself in all the traditions and events that show the real spirit of Christmas. Even if you’re a bit of a ‘Bah Humbug’, you may still find a little bit of joy in our Bravissimo ‘Christmassy Things To Do’ guide.

Somerset House in London has just opened their now famous Christmas ice rink. There is no better place to practice your ‘Dancing on Ice’ steps than in the beautiful and breathtaking surroundings of Somerset House. They have normal skating sessions, a skate school for people who want to learn to skate, and they even hold club nights, starting with the London summer festival Lovebox coming to the ice this very weekend.

Not to be left out, the rest of the country are going ice crazy too, The Ice Factor is 900 sq. m rink in York and is part of the Winter Wonderland Village Square. Or for an authentic Christmas atmosphere, you can skate to the sound of the choir, at the rink next to 11th-century Winchester Cathedral. You will find other rinks at Spinningfields in Manchester, one in Cardiff next to City Hall, the Eden Project, Cornwall and one of Europe’s biggest and most awe inspiring, is at the foot of Edinburgh Castle.

If you don’t want to take the risk of breaking a bone before the December 25th, how about meandering around a Christmas Market. Christmas Markets began as early as the late middle ages in Germanic Europe, one of the oldest recorded is Dresden Christmas Market, first held in 1434, it is still going today and attracts between 1.5 and 2 million people a year. There are some amazing Christmas markets up and down the UK check out http://www.christmasmarkets.com/ for one local to you. Here is a selection… Traditional Christmas Market in Glasgow at St Enoch Square, Nottingham Christmas Market Smithy Row, Leeds Christkindelmarkt Traditional German Christmas Market, Bath Christmas Market and Dickens Christmas Market At Rochester Castle.

How about listening to something magical, that is guaranteed to make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. English Cathedral Choirs are performing in Cathedrals all over the country. Take a look at the music schedules listed on the Cathedral websites there will be a mixture of free and ticketed events. There are carols at Winchester Cathedral on 9th December at 2.30pm and Carols By Candlelight on 22nd December 2011 at 7:30 pm at Ely Cathedral. And for the ultimate experience, if you are visiting London have a look at the music programme at St Pauls http://www.stpauls.co.uk there are many carols concerts taking place, starting with The Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, this coming Saturday 10th December at 5pm.

Christmas can be more than just buying presents; it can also be about sharing amazing experiences with your loved ones.

LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN!

Bravissimo — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:10:43 +0000

Is your Christmas shopping underway? You may be one of those highly organised women who shopped in October and whose presents are wrapped and ready. Or you maybe the type who leave it until Christmas Eve and actually quite enjoy the last minute dash from shop to shop, either side of a cheeky visit to the pub.

At this time of year it’s impossible to escape the marketing campaigns of our nation’s retailers. Two of our major department stores seem to have their Christmas TV adverts on a loop at the moment. We are constantly confronted by all of these ecstatic people opening pressies, which either makes you feel all smug that your Christmas shopping is done and dusted, or you start to slightly panic that you haven’t got anything for the really special person in your life. Whether it’s your wonderful mum, your partner (hello fellas! We know some of you read this), or your fantastic sister. There are certain people in your life that just deserve that extra special gift. Bravissimo have some brand new nightwear that would make great Christmas gifts.

Satin Cami Top by Bravissimo

Take a look at the gorgeous Satin Cami Top by Bravissimo in blue. This cami top has an integral bra and is wire free, so offers comfort and support whilst you sleep and if you really want to make that special person smile, why not buy the matching Satin Shorts by Bravissimo. These shorts are so soft and luxurious, they will ensure a great night’s sleep.

The Satin Nightdress by Bravissimo is the perfect present for any special lady, available in blue, this nightdress has black lace overlay over the boobs, a small lace bow and black lace trim on the hem, it features a wire-free integral bra and soft underband support.

We’ll be offering more present ideas over the next couple of weeks, so until the next time, happy shopping, and take a good look around Bravissimo.com for more exciting ideas and do take the time to look at our Christmas Gift Vouchers.

Party Perfect

Bravissimo — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 16:28:31 +0000

Its nearly here! The one time of the year when you would not look out of place amongst the contestants on Strictly. Party season is just around the corner and lots of you will be searching out some serious sparkle to make an impression at the Christmas party. This is the time of year when you can really go to town on glamour. It’s all about dressing up, sequins, taffeta, and satin (not all at once, we don’t want you blending in with the Christmas decorations).

If you’re not relishing the thought of pounding the pavements, or the hours trawling the internet for the perfect party dress, then Pepperberry can take all of the hassle away, so you can concentrate on more important Christmassy things. Read on, for our ultimate guide to the best party outfits this festive season.

Platinum Shift Dress

Stylish, sexy and sharp are three words to describe the Platinum Shift Dress. This dress is following the bodycon trend that has been big over the last year; it has a scooped neck and capped sleeves which are really flattering for upper arms. It is available in platinum, but is contrasted with stunning purple lining, which also ensures this dress won’t cling or ride up. This dress is so versatile it could be worn for posh Christmas drinks or any festive gathering.

The Taffeta Check Dress is right on trend for this winter with the fabulous red, grey and silver check print, in taffeta. This dress just screams Christmas and is so classic; you could wear it at any Christmas party. It features capped sleeves, an exposed zip at the back and is fully lined and comes with patent waist belt. This looks fabulous with black accessories, go for a patent clutch and heels and a satin tux jacket, or if you are going somewhere really smart, like a winter wedding, a black faux fur stole would really finish the look.

Spot Print Prom Dress

The Spot Print Prom Dress is the ultimate party dress and perfect if you want to hide your hips but define your waist. It’s a sleeveless dress and features a full net underskirt and is available in jacquard taffeta fabric, in black/silver spot print. It also has a pretty tie at the waist. This dress can be dressed up, by accessorising with a cropped satin jacket in silver and silver heels or dressed down with a turquoise or fuchsia fitted cardi and satin flats. This dress would also be perfect for NYE.

We hope we have given you plenty of ideas, there will be more party ideas to come.

sleep baby sleep

Bravissimo — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:57:53 +0000

The end of another weekend. Don’t you just hate that Sunday night feeling when you know that in a matter of hours, you will be getting up and it will still be dark. Braving the train or bus, ducking and diving, so you’re not standing under a fellow commuter’s armpit. Or maybe you will be stuck in long traffic jams on the M25, M6 or M4…Oh how we love the journey to work! But fear not, however stressful and busy your week ahead might be, here are some ideas to give you that lovely relaxing weekend feeling, every day of the week.

Geometric Print PJ Bottoms

Plan your evening meals ahead, so you are not desperately searching the fridge for inspiration, you will also have more time in the evenings to relax. Keep it simple, a chunky soup, stir fry, or Spanish omelette are healthy, quick options. Try a TV free night. When we are sat in front of the box, before we know it is 11 pm and we wonder where the evening has gone, try listening to the radio or reading a book instead. Ring a friend you haven’t spoken to in ages, it’s usually cheaper in the evenings to chat from a landline. Have a soak, this is something we do at the weekend that we don’t do as much during the week. Light some candles, close your eyes, and relax. Have a night out, do something different to the norm, it will break up the week and make you feel re-energized. You could try a zumba dance class or support your local theatre and see a play. Have a couple of early nights, there is nothing like a full eight or nine hours to make you feel rested and it’s just as good as a weekend lie in. Check that you have good supportive pillows, some people swear by silk pillow covers too. Make sure the room is not too warm, and that it’s dark, just like babies we sleep better in a dark room.

To help you achieve that perfect night’s sleep, you will need something comfortable and soft to wear. Bravissimo know how important comfort is to our ladies, so our nightwear and loungewear features integral bras to support you while you sleep.

Lace Nightdress by Bravissimo

For ladies that are passionate about pyjamas we have the Geometric Print PJ Bottoms by Bravissimo. They are made from brush cotton so are really soft and cosy, they come in the very funky geometric print, with these jammys, you have the option of wearing with the PJ Cami Top by Bravissimo, which comes with wire-free integral bra support and is available in berry, or wear with the new Capped Sleeve Top by Bravissimo, available in black and also with built in wire-free integral bra support and bra back fastening. We are awaiting stock, but more sizes will be available during December and you can purchase now.

For you ladies that are nuts about nighties, the pretty Lace Nightdress by Bravissimo, has had great reviews. It also features a wire-free integral bra support with bra back fastening and is available in berry. You have said, “This one looks amazing on”, “Is the comfiest nightie you have worn” and “Fits perfectly and your boobs stay in place”.

Remember girls, we spend around one third of our lives asleep, so we may as well be comfy!

BAG YOURSELF A BAG

Bravissimo — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:26:14 +0000

Q: What does a women love just as much as a killer pair of shoes?
A: A killer bag.

If you haven’t already laid your eyes on our fabulous bags by Pepperberry, then you must take a look! The party season is nearly here and that is closely followed by the holiday season and we have bags for every occasion.

Oil Skin Weekend Bag

If you are sneaking in a cheeky Christmas break, we have the ultimate in weekend style. The Oil Skin Weekend Bag is available in an on trend ethnic print, this is a weekend bag to show off. It is fully lined and it’s a good size, so will fit all your bits and pieces with extra room left over. There is a matching Oil Skin Satchel available, a great option for everyday use and a matching purse, the Oil Skin Purse, which is also fully lined.

For glitzy and glam Christmas nights out, a few sequins and a bit of satin are a must. Whether you are opting for a bodycon fitted cocktail dress, a fifties style prom dress, or full length ball gown, the essential partner to a knock out dress is a cute, sexy clutch bag. Pepperberry have a great choice for any colour and style of evening dress.

The Silver Diamante Clutch Bag, would look great with steel or a darker silver, or any jewel colour like ruby or jade, don’t forget to team it with silver heels too.

If you are wearing black heels with your evening dress, then black accessories are the way to go.

Pepperberry have two stylish clutches, the Black Clutch Bag in faux snakeskin is the simpler of the two, but would look great with a trouser suit or jumpsuit and a tux. Or you can go for the decorative clutch, the Sequin Envelope Clutch Bag is gorgeous clutch with a real vintage look, it is covered in black sequins, with gorgeous diamante clasp in the shape of a leaf. If you are looking for a statement clutch, then this would be perfect.

The coming party season means metallics are everywhere on the high street. We know there is lots of gold and silver out there, but pewter can also been seen in the shops and is harder to match up with accessories. However Pepperberry have the answer, the Pewter Clutch Bag, which is stylish and simple will be the perfect accompaniment to a pewter evening top or dress.

GET IT RIGHT THIS CHRISTMAS

Bravissimo — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 15:10:09 +0000

If you have a special someone in your life, then you might want to surreptitiously show them this latest blog. The Festive Season is approaching rapidly, and if your partner is looking to score major brownie points on Christmas morning, then some presents are clearly better than others. Here’s a list of no no’s: Pots and pans (unless it’s a posh Le Creuset), an iron (even worse, a new ironing board!), socks (especially festive socks), a kitchen bin and the old favourite – the bread maker.

Delphi Basque by Masquerade

However, these are some gorgeous gifts that us girls would be happy to receive; perfume (not cheap stuff), a leather handbag, a gorgeous silk nightdress, cashmere…anything, any luxurious bath soak or body lotion and lingerie (that’s where Bravissimo come in).

If you are shopping with your partner this weekend and you walk past a Bravissimo store, you might want to drop a few subtle hints…”OMG I love this place”, “If I had to show someone I really cared, I would buy them a gift from Bravissimo” or “It looks like rain, let’s just shelter in here for a few minutes…” Or, leave our page open on the computer, with a post it saying ‘Wondering what to get that wonderful woman this Christmas? My bra size is…’

The perfect Christmas gift would be the Delphi Basque by Masquerade, as it gives you the ultimate hourglass figure. It is available in black/graphite, with a wet look finish, diamante embellishment and lace. This basque is underwired and lightly padded and with clever boning and toning creates amazing shape. It is available to buy with matching briefs or a thong, which really finish off the look.

The Lola Luxe Basque by Bravissimo would be an amazing gift to receive. It is exclusive to Bravissimo and we have already had great reviews for this one. It’s our first ever basque available in a K cup. It comes in black/teal and is very pretty with the cute teal bow embroidery. It is extremely comfortable to wear and creates a gorgeous smooth silhouette. Choose either the matching briefs or thong, which are a must have with this stunning basque.

If you want to inject a bit of glamour into bedtime, then point your partner in the direction of the Ivory Silk Nightdress by Bravissimo. Available in antique ivory, it is a beautifully soft and elegant nightdress, exuding vintage glamour of old. It has an integral bra, which is wire free for comfort and a tie under the bust, which makes it very flattering too. Our Bravissimo ladies seem to really adore this nightdress.

So let’s get the word out to our poor confused husbands and partners. There’s no excuse this year lads, those Rudolph comedy socks just won’t do!

you’re never too old

Bravissimo — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 11:58:16 +0000

A recent survey in the UK has reported that a large proportion of women over the age of 55 feel ignored by the High Street when it comes to buying clothes. Almost three quarters of women can’t find age appropriate & fashionable clothes and they feel that the market is aimed at young people. Women are living longer and working later in life, so the High Street needs to sit up and take notice. A recent TV programme with retail guru Mary Portas highlighted this problem, it followed Mary on her journey from designing, to putting into production, a collection aimed at this forgotten generation.

If you are 55 or over just stick to a few basic rules and you won’t go wrong. Sleeves are preferable to sleeveless, gathers and clever ruching are great to hide lumps and bumps. Necklines should not be too low or should be worn with a cami or vest underneath and black is flattering, but break it up with colour.

The Pleat Jersey Dress

We feel that our own clothing range, Pepperberry, as well as being ‘designed with your boobs in mind’, spans all ages and includes clothing that is both classic, stylish and fashionable, so don’t be surprised if you find your daughter ‘borrowing’ (which is code for stealing) your new Pepperberry purchases. Here are a few great pieces, that we feel can be worn by any age.

The Pleat Jersey Dress available in black, is a great easy to wear jersey dress, it has ¾ length sleeves, a mock cami which gives your boobs more room. It also has pleats at the front, coming from the waist, which is really flattering for the tummy area. Team it with a coloured scarf like the Pleat Scarf in pink, which breaks up the black and is softer near the face. Wear it with our Tartan Blazer (see below).

The Ruched Jersey Dress comes in black, it is a fabulous versatile dress that will flatter your shape and it has lots of details that are great figure fixers, like ruching running down the front, again, great for the tummy area, lovely pleating on the shoulder seams creating a lovely shape over the boobs. It has ¾ length sleeves, so even if you are petite, this dress will work for you.

Tartan Blazer

The Tartan Blazer is a great buy whether your 20 or 60, it features one of the big trends this season, tartan, and this combined with the neat tailoring of the jacket, makes this jacket a must have. It is fully lined, single-breasted, with cute pockets, and lovely retro style buttons. The Tartan Blazer will definitely become a favourite this season.

The Lux Mac is timeless as well as ageless, it is a lovely classic long coat, that combines tailoring, glamour and style. It is available in black, in a satin fabric which makes it perfect to be worn unbelted with lux fabrics like satin or sequins for a night out, but equally can be worn during the day, belted for a stylish, sharp look.

We can’t not mention the Teal Drawcord Jersey Dress. The colour of this one is just gorgeous and would suit anyone, and it is very flattering for all sizes and so easy to wear. It features an adjustable drawcord under the bust and we have recently amended the neckline so it is not too low. A fabulous day-to-night dress.

ghouls just wanna have fun

Bravissimo — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 21:02:43 +0000

This weekend might just feel a bit longer than last weekend, as the clocks go back on Sunday morning, so we will all get an extra hour in bed to recover from our excesses…bliss!

It is also Halloween on Monday. A day that most kids look forward to, as they can spray their hair, cover themselves in fake blood and knock on peoples’ doors and ask for money or sweets, (what’s not to like!)

Some ladies up and down the country will also be channeling their inner child, by dressing up as ghouls, ghosts and zombies. Most gatherings over the weekend will have a Halloween theme, so if you have been invited to a party, or you are going out with friends and the dress code is black and dramatic, don’t panic! Even if fancy dress is not your thing, Bravissimo have some beautiful black dresses from Pepperberry that would fit the bill perfectly, but won’t spook you out in the process. With the right Halloween-style accessories and make-up you will look drop dead (see what I did there?) gorgeous.

Cowl Back Jersey Maxi Dress

A new dress in the Pepperberry collection is the utterly stunning Cowl Back Jersey Maxi Dress. This maxi has a low cowl detail at the back of the dress, giving this dress the wow factor. There is a mesh panel that covers your bra, and there are tabs built in to the dress that will hold your bra firmly in place. This dress has cap sleeves with a double row of tiny diamante edging on the sleeves. Wear this dress with very high black platforms, backcombed hair, and you may even want to add a diamante hair clip. Go heavy with the eye make-up, dark smoky eyes in black and midnight and pale lipstick makes a lovely contrast.

Embellished Bandeau Dress

Another great LBD is the Embellished Bandeau Dress from Pepperberry. This is a gorgeous prom style dress, it has a boned bodice and is in a taffeta look fabric. It is fully lined and has a black diamante panel just under the bust. This dress has a net underskirt and detachable straps, so can be worn as a sexy bandeau too. If you are proud of your waist, then this dress will make the most of it. Some fabulous sky-high heels will finish this dress off. Go sixties inspired with the hair and make-up. False eye lashes are a must and some huge eye flicks and bright red lips, paint your nails black and backcomb your hair and pin it into a beehive.

Whether you are spending the weekend carving pumpkins and cutting holes in sheets or whether you are escaping Halloween fever and doing something completely different. We hope you have a really enjoyable one. And if you can’t be good, be scarey.

WRAP UP WARM

Bravissimo — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:48:45 +0000

The time of year has arrived when we are wrapping up, adding layers and fashion is just as much about keeping warm and dry, as about looking good. Whether you are in your first serious job after college, a working or a stay at home mum, or whether you are a veteran of that daily commute, each and every Bravissimo girl needs a stylish winter jacket or coat that will keep the wind and the rain at bay when you are out in the elements.

Scallop Edge Coat

If you are looking to buy, there is such a vast array of winter coats and jackets in different styles and fabrics that it can get slightly confusing. Do you go for tweed, classic wool, or leather? Do you opt for a plaid, plain or a dotty print? And that’s before we get started on colour!

Hopefully Pepperberry, our very own clothing range, will have a few options that will keep our Bravissimo ladies warm and dry, but still looking smart and on trend. We also know how tricky it is finding winter coats that fit nicely over the boobs, so these coats have been designed with extra room.

One coat that is already proving to be a bit of a hit is the Scallop Edge Coat in black. This coat has the lovely scalloped detailing and buttons down the edge of one side, it creates a lovely nipped in waist and is fully lined. It is finished off with the corsage on the neck, which is removable. You also have the option of wearing the neckline unfastened, if you find the neck too high.

Boucle Coat

Another new addition to Pepperberry range is the Boucle Coat. This coat is in a textured fabric, which fits into this year’s trend for textured woven yarns. The boucle coat is very classic in shape, single breasted, so it will creates a nice streamlined look, it has a slightly puffed sleeve to add a bit of femininity. It is available in purple and looks fabulous with black, brown or grey, it will also will look amazing with plum, blueberry and tan and any other colours from the autumn palette. A perfect coat for long winter walks or for keeping you toasty warm, while you wait for your train or bus.

If you are struggling to find that perfect winter coat, make your way to Bravissimo and take a look at these two fabulous coats, or if it’s too chilly to venture out, have a look online from the comfort of your sofa.

HEAD TO THE HIGH STREET

Bravissimo — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:35:40 +0000

The nights are drawing in, the days are chillier and summer is just a distant memory. What’s there to be cheery about? Well it’s the start of the weekend, many of us are planning our Friday night outfits, and the rest of us are planning our Friday night TV viewing. Its Saturday tomorrow, and therefore a great opportunity to put the stresses and strains of the week behind you and catch up with friends.

Naomi Bra by Freya

Many of us head to the high street for a bit of retail therapy with our girlfriends, as us girls bond over shopping, like men bond over football or rugby. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great day; it’s more about the browsing and chatting than about how much you spend.

There definitely a buzz at this time of year on Britain’s high streets, it is perfect weather to amble and comfortable temperatures to shop in. Christmas is still quite a way off, so the high street is quiet in comparison to the shopping frenzy that takes place in the weeks prior to the 25th December. If you are super organised you could even start your Christmas shopping early, so you have nothing more to do except enjoy yourself in the run up to the big day.

If you happen to be in the vicinity of your local Bravissimo store, pop in and say hello. One of our consultants would be happy to show you some of the lovely new styles of lingerie that have just come in, like the gorgeous Naomi Bra by Freya. For Freya fans out there, you will know that it gives amazing rounded and upfront shape and the new dogtooth print in noir gives it a formal, grown up look, and the contrast with black and fuchsia lace gives it a sexy, sassy, twist.

While you are shopping at Bravissimo, take a look at our Pepperberry range as they would make great Christmas gifts. We have some stylish accessories including our Driving Gloves. These are available in two colours, pink and black and are made from genuine leather; they are totally on trend and would make a great pressie for a sister or a friend.

Also you can’t go wrong with the Ombre Scarf, available in black/grey, which makes it easy to wear with any colour winter coat. A perfect choice for Mum if you are stuck for ideas.

So ladies, whatever you do, have a great Saturday and if you are heading to your high street, don’t forget to visit us at Bravissimo.