Insect Diva

This week I wanted to share one of my all time favourite accessory brands based in the US - Insect Diva. Ever since I can remember I've had an obsession with bugs and creepy crawlies as accessories and the amazing Diana Michelle has created the BEST of the BEST pieces when it comes to this theme.

Now before I write this review I wanted to share a little information taken directly for the webstore so you are fully aware of how these insects are included in such amazing accessories. 

'Conservation is a prime concern, so only non-endangered insects are used, and our intention is to use insects and arthropods that have died naturally, or pest species that have passed as part of IPM to preserve native plants and animals. Insect Diva pieces showcase the utter beauty of insects, while educating people about them, making these beautiful creatures more real and accessible to everyone :). Thus raising our awareness of these stunning creatures, and connecting us more with our natural environment, and the importance of conserving it'

Metallic Green Real Scarab Beetle Junebug Sterling Silver Necklace - AU$65.22

There is something magical about the designs of Insect Diva. Bold shapes, amazing colours and naturally sourced insects all come together to create amazingly unique and inspiring pieces. For years I've been wearing my favourite bugs forged from sterling silver but now I can actually wear the real thing!!

From the first moment I laid eyes on this necklace I knew it had to be mine. Such a simple yet striking pendant on a thin sterling silver chain of the perfect length - yes perfect! Having a large chest my boobies can devour most necklaces if the chain is too long but all of these pieces sit in the most perfect spot. 

The bright green and black beetle absolutely pops on my super pale skin and I love how it pairs with my red hair. Now I've been wearing this casually or with out on the town and I love how easily it pairs with everything in my wardrobe. 

Ice Princess Silver Crystal Branch Antler Forrest Necklace and Earring Set - AU$38.60

Next is the perfect winter accessory set and one of the most divine pieces I've ever had the pleasure of wearing. The ice princess is a perfect jewelry version of the amazing way that ice, snow and water form in the winter. Creating stunning droplets paired with the silvery antler shapes that perfectly capture that winter feel and make for a very glamorous set. 

Who needs diamonds when you can have an amazing set like this that's completely unique and looks just as perfect. I love wearing these with a little black dress, a black fur stole and even a snow white angora beret. Although perfectly paired each piece works perfectly when worn on their own and add a little sparkle to any black dress or blouse. I can't wait for winter to hit Australia so I can wear these like crazy.

You can purchase this as a set or individually if you tend to wear one item more than the other.

Scorpion Queen  Necklace in Red - $87.84 (sold out)

Lastly I have one of the most bold and exciting pieces of jewelry I've ever owned. The Scorpion Queen necklace is a strong and striking necklace in ruby red, green and gold. This year I've discovered a real love for this shade and I'm working into my collection every month it seems. 

When you wear this necklace you will honestly feel like an queen as it creates such bold shapes and really pops. I can't wait to pair this with an amazing evening gown and shoot it very soon! I'm already on the hunt for a blood red full length style to wear with it. But you don't have to limit wearing this to only formal occasions. Pair this with boho style dresses and florals for an amazing look or even add this to a LBD as a statement piece. 

This style necklace also comes in a emerald green scarab beetle version and I'm dying to get my hands on that baby asap! Being a redhead I'm always on the hunt for the perfect green accessories and I think that will suit me perfectly! 

While this version is sadly sold out you can snap it up in Gold or there is a Regal Scorpion Necklace that is very similar in both design and colour. I've already started my next lust life for more Insect Diva creations with more bugs, mouths and spiders! It's creations like these that will never date and can be worn for ever.

Pinup Couture Shoe Addiction!

Earlier this year I announced my brand Ambassadorship with Shoe Me Gorgeous and today I wanted to give you a more in depth review of two of the stunning new Pinup Couture styles I've been using in my photoshoots recently. This month I fell in love with the super feminine and very vintage inspired heels. Both in my favourite basic black with a twist and a colour I've been hunting high and low for - Yellow!

Pin Up Couture BETTIE-03 Black Faux Leather Platforms - $110.00

When I first laid eyes on the Bettie I just adored the little heart cut out features on the to and side of these classic sling back platforms. I've always found a sling black heel super comfortable but I love the attention to detail that has been taken when creating Bettie. From the hearts to the bow all of these items come together to create a very stunning shoe and the white pipping on the black faux leather really makes this style pop! 

As an Australian size 10 I wear a US11 in Pinup Couture and I found this specific style to be very comfortable due to the hidden heart of comfort that I mentioned in my first review. This cushioned heart sits under the sole of your foot for extra comfort and support when wearing these all day long. After modeling these a few weeks back I would not take them off and usually I'm dying to get out of my footwear and corsets at the end of a long shoot! 

How adorable are those hearts and bows??!!?? 

These are available in black, mint and baby pink  which are perfect for summer colours and prints. I opted for black as I tend not to wear too much of the other shades but I'm now lusting after these in mint. I can't wait to see what other shades are in store for the future - maybe ruby red? 

Pin Up Couture BETTIE-01 Yellow Faux Leather Platforms  - $108.00

I have been dreaming of the perfect pair of pinup heels in yellow and Pinup Couture finally answered my prayers! The Bettie-01 in a vintage dream with this stunning bright yellow shade, white accents, scalloped edging and topped off with a sweet ankle strap and bow. 

With these it's all about those little details that make you swoon and I can't get enough of the style and ease of wear. I'm wearing this Bettie in an 11 as well and with the peep toe area I find it's a perfect fit as there is not much give. If yellow is not your colour then don't fret as they are also available in black, teal and hot pink! I think I need the black or hot pink in my collection asap. 

Now the heels on both of these platforms are 4 1/2 inches high and they are just the right height. I can wear these all day to work or out all evening without any issues or discomfort.

I think it's very clear now that I'm a very loyal fan of Pinup Couture shoes. The are a perfect retro reproduction shoe brand with a modern and functional twist and the designs are always amazing. If you are looking for the PERFECT vintage inspired shoe to pair with your modern or classic pinup wardrobe then Pinup Couture is for you. 

Rock Cats - Giveaway!



Last year I fell in love with a little kitty from Erstwilder who just happened to be the feline version of Bowie but never would I have imagined that this little kitty would start one of the coolest ranges to date from my favourite Australian accessory brands. 

Now let me start with the question why wear one Erstwilder accessory when you can wear them all!! As a lover of pins I have jackets covered with my favourite pieces so for this range I added some bling to my favourite Collectif moto and wore all my Rock Cats at once. 

Rebel, Rebel Erstwilder Earrings - $29.95

The kitty that inspired this concept is now in adorable stud earring form. With the iconic makeup and eyes of David Bowie this item is a must have if you are a Ziggy fan. I feel hard for the Rebel, Rebel brooch and snapped it up as soon as it was available and now I have matching earrings. That adorable little face and very distinct lightening strike are purrfect in earring form.

DETROIT ROCK CITY ERSTWILDER BROOCH - $34.95

Now one for the metal rock fans the one and only Kiss inspired brooch. How cool is the iconic Kiss makeup on a cat - if only this was real on cats! I've changed my brooches name to Detroit Rock Kitty and love how boldly the this little guy stands out on my lapel.



 HOUND DOG ERSTWILDER BROOCH ROCK CATS - $34.99

The King of Rock and Roll, the one and only Elvis! In his famous while jumpsuit and that iconic hair - oh my. Such a suave little fella with his sparkles, stars and bright blue peepers. This piece is perfect for the rockabilly fans out there.

This season I've been lucky enough to get my paws on an extra copy of each of these little guys and it's time for a giveaway!! But this time I'm going to do things a little differently.

What's on offer? Well one lucky reader will get all 3 of these kitties!!

How do you enter? I'm holding this competition on both my blog and on Instagram. Please post a comment below or on the 'Giveaway' post found on my Instagram account @teerwayde

What's the catch? To be in the draw tell me your absolute favourite rock icon is. It's that simple.

This giveaway is open to all of my readers worldwide and will run from the 21st of March until the 31st of March. So don't waste anymore time and enter now!

Dangerfield for curves!

One of the most iconic Australian brands for alternative fashion - Dangerfield - has expanded two of their in house labels to a size 18 and I'm super excited to be able to bring you all the fit information you could ever need when it comes to their in house ranges styles in size 16 and 18.

I've been shopping at Dangerfield for as long as I can remember and I've always loved the mix of inhouse labels with a variety of styles and looks. Be it the Dangerfield label itself, Revival or Princess Highway each offshoot has its own brilliant style and look from retro to modern - it's all brilliant!

Ebony Denim Jacket - $88.00
Bad Girl Top by Vixen by Micheline Pitt - Black and White Stripes - $57.10
Reverefolie Kitty Lane Hoops - $25.00

When I post a sneaky preview of myself in this jacket last weekend I remembered that I've not worn a denim jacket for over 20 years and then I wondered to myself exactly why I've been avoiding them? Well it's simple - most denim jackets can be stiff and bulky doing nothing for your figure and really making you look like a square. But the Ebony jacket is stretchy, cropped and so figure flattering. Hence why it's sold out so fast online!! I wear moto jackets day in and day out but it's nice to have a more casual and more summer appropriate jacket in my collection.

I'm wearing this style in a size 16 and the fit is absolutely perfect. Now I don't tend to focus on cropped jackets like this buttoning up as I tend to show off the items worn beneath or layer but if I wanted to button this up fully the 18 would have worked well.

The 16 really hugs my curves which is why I was absolutely smitten with this style as soon as I tried it on. I also adore the dark black wash denim colour as it pairs perfectly with all of my wardrobe.

Clip in Burgundy Ombre Hair Extension - $29.25

I paired this amazing jacket with my stripped crops from Vixen by Micheline Pitt and I love the mixture of the bold strip print and dark denim, I instantly feel like a badass! I'm wearing the Bad Girl Crop on a 2XL and I could have sized down as it's roomy at my waist. Pictured are two things I never thought I'd wear again but I'm absolutely loving crops and denim.

For this look I wanted a little more length with my hair and tried to create that barbie high ponytail with an amazing clip in extension from Ponytail Shop!

So reasonably priced, the colour match is perfect for my dark red hair and the length adds just the right amount of hair. This hair piece is so simple to use as well. Just pop your read hair in a tight high pony. Clip the extention in on the top half of your own ponytail then use the velcro to wrap around and secure. Then you can wrap the extra piece of hair attached around the velcro to hide any connections and it looks like your own hair!! I'm going to wear this constantly and maybe even by a back up. This clip in is fake hair so don't try to heat style as it might melt. Luckily the natural wave is perfect and I did not need to do anything more to achieve this style. This colour is also available in a straight pony and that's next on my list.

As you can see from my accessories I've made this jacket a little more 'Me' as I tend to do with all of my outerwear. Complete with Milly Pins, Creep Co and an amazing Evil Dead back patch. I can't help but add my own flare to jackets and for this style I'm focusing on creepy/horror themed items such as Bates Motel and Vincent Price. 

Next week I've set up a shoot with the amazing Brooke Orchard to shoot two dresses and two cardigans in both 16 and 18 so I'll be able to give you guys even more fit information. 

Plus if you have any requests I can easily pop into a store and try any item on for you and give you all of the fit tips, so feel free to ask me via all social media, or shoot over an email to info@curvestokill.com or add a comment below. 

Many thanks to my brilliant husband for snapping these images of me.

Velvet Keepsake - Curve Friendly Styles

Today marks the launch of Wheels and Dollbaby's Autumn/Winter range for 2017 - Velvet Keepsake.With plush velvet fabrics, lush furs, ruffled shirts and a rich colour palette you will fall hard for this amazingly elegant range. This collection celebrates the 30th Birthday of the iconic label and has a big focus on glamorous items with that rock Dollbaby edge.

For this post I wanted to share the items that would be perfect for my curvy readers in sizes 14 to 18. I can wear all 3 of these sizes depending on cut, fabric and fit so lets see what's on offer for us in this current collection.

Over the next month I'll be shooting some of these items so I'll be posting a full review with in-depth fit information for all of my favourite pieces.

BALLET SKIRT BLACK - $429.00

BALLET SKIRT PINK - $429.00

One of the most loved skirts ever to exist, the Ballet skirt, has returned in black, pink and nude. Available up to a size 14 this skirt can be work paired with stunning blouses, a rock tee or tank and of course an amazing leather jacket. My personal favourite has to be the leather and all black look above!

 

A CLASS VELVET CLARIDGES DRESS  - $355.00

DONNA CRINKLE SKIRT - $295.00

The Claridges Dress has made a made a comeback this season in plush noir velvet. Amazingly tailored this style suits all shapes and sizes and is high on my lust list from this collection. Available up to a size 16 and perfect for hourglass figures. I really hope to shoot this style! 

The Donna available in up to a 14 is a crinkle sheer fabric stunning design that's made for twirling and dancing. I'm not too sure if I'll fit into this garment but I WANT it either way! Goal skirt maybe? Or maybe Wheels can create this to fit up to my waist and hip size pretty please? The fitted waist and sheer flare bottom really make this item absolutely stunning.

 

SWEATER W DOLLBABY EMB - $99.00

SWEATER W CHARM EMB - $99.00

The classic sweater collection has two new styles this season! You can choose from the classic black with an adorable Wheels Dollbaby charm or the new rich red shade traditional dollbaby and velvet bow sweater. These are super stretchy and available up to a size 16. I myself wear the 16 and it's an absolute dream fit wise. Now which do I choose?

 

THE KLUTE SWEATER IN PINK - $125.00

OVERSIZED SWEATER LA PIN UP - $125.00

As we have just hit Autumn down under it's the perfect time to stock up on winter warmers and all of my favourite knits have returned in new prints and colour ways. Both available up to a size 16 and very oversized. I tend to order 12s or 14's in the oversized jumper as I like a firmer fit and the for the Klute I own a 16 but I'll be downsizing to a 14 this season as it's super generous. You will live in these styles all winter I promise.

 

SILK SWEET JANE BLOUSE IN BLACK - $325.00

SILK SWEET JANE BLOUSE IN IVORY- $325.00

Ruffled, neckties and silky sweet fabrics - YES PLEASE!! The Jane blouse is a busty girls dream and I honestly can't wait to get this item in my hot little hands. Both available up to a size 16 and from my personal experience with Dollbaby blouses/shirts I find they are generous enough to fit large busts and depending on the stretch in the fabric can accommodate me with ease as I own the skull print and I've modeled other button ups in 16's throughout the years. Fingers and toes crossed that I can rock this!!! 

 OVERSIZED SWEATER W CREME - $125.00

OVERSIZED SWEATER  LA PINUP - $125.00

More knits to rock all winter! I already own the cream logo sweater and I must have the La Pinup in my collection asap. These are so soft and warm and I love pairing them with faux leather pants or skinny jeans plus boots or heels. Both are available up to a 16.

 

LE PIRATE GIRL PONTI JACKET - $395.00 

THE KLUTE SWEATER IN BLACK - $125.00

Bring out your inner Adam Ant styling with the Le Pirate Girl jacket in Ponti available up to a size 14. This amazingly flattering cut creates amazing curves and can be worn button up or open. The stretch ponti fabric does wonders and accommodates larger measurements. The black Klute sweater has also returned to match the pale pink version and it's up to a size 16.

  

 A CLASS VELVET MANTRAP DRESS IN BLACK - $395.00

 A CLASS VELVET MANTRAP DRESS IN RED - $395.00

I didn't think it was possible to make the Mantrap dress even more lush but then I discovered this style in red, black or navy velvet and my heart skipped a beat. You can purchase this in a size 14 but I myself wear the 16 as I find the arm room a little more comfortable. This is the perfect evening dress for winter night paired with back seamed stockings and boleros or stoles.



 

A CLASS VELVET CHEONGSAM DRESS - $335.00 - 16

 A CLASS VELVET DECORATIFS DRESS  - $345.00 - 16

More wiggles for the curvy dollbabies!! While I'm not a huge fan of high necklines the Cheongsam (also in red) dress is absolutely stunning but maybe suited to my less busy babes. The Velvet Decoratifs dress though has my name written all over it with a super low cut neckline, bust detailing and a hidden power mesh (makes you look and feel amazing) this frock is definitely on my lust list. Both of these amazing dresses are available up to a size 16. 

 

WINTER FUR JACKET - $595.00

Lastly we have the most amazing coat I've ever laid eyes on and one that instantly made me drool when I saw this seasons look book. This faux fur leopard print winter coat is phenomenal and what glam rock dreams are made of! I have so many styling ideas and outfits planned for this coat I just need to save my pennies and get it! Now this coat is available up to a size 14 but I find these oversized coats can fit up a size so as a 16 I think the fit will be perfect!

Be sure to check back in the next few weeks for more in depth fit information and hopefully some amazing images!

A Unique Collaboration

Two of my all time favourite brands have joined forces this year to created an amazing collaboration of fashion and accessories. As retro fashion blogger I've been wearing and reviewing Unique Vintage and Erswilder for many years and they both have a huge spot in my heart. Each label has amazing teams, creative artists and really care about both the market and the buyer themselves so when I heard that they had teamed up together to create a brooch/skirt/dress I felt instantly that they were giving the fans something we have always wanted and needed!

1950s Beauty Salon High Waist Swing Skirt UV & Erstwilder 2017  - $97.74

Rollin With Katie Brooch Erstwilder 2017  - $27.74

Vixen by Micheline Pitt Bad Girl Top by Vixen by Micheline Pitt - Pink and White Stripes - $59.49

Collectif Mainline Outlaw Biker Jacket - £33.25

When this collaboration was released I knew the exact outfit I had to shoot both the skirt and the brooch with and this is my little bad girl take on the sweetness that is this fabric and accessory. Having been an avid collector of Erstwilder and UV I knew that these items were going to sell like hotcakes so as soon as they were released I swooped up both the skirt and Katie the brooch so I did not miss out.

This collection also features a full skirted dress but given the  fit I thought it was safe to stick with the skirt as I own many more in this specific style.

I wear UV skirts in a 2XL and the fit is always perfect so be sure to go by your waist measurement and consult our online size chart for the brand if you are unsure of anything. The skirt features an amazing beauty shop scene with super cute pinups under the hair dryers in their own UV dresses.

Unique Vintage always blow me away with their attention to detail with prints and this style is the best of the best when paired with the matching Erswilder brooch.



How adorable is Katie? Appropriately named 'Rolling with Katie' as she sports the look we all have during pinup prep and I have to say she is by far my favourite pinup brooch from Erstwilder to date.

With all the pastel vibes I wanted to mix in a little leather and a bold pink so I opted for an amazing Collectif Moto and my Vixen by Micheline Pitt pink strip crop top. Yes I'm a size 2XL or XL and I'm wearing a crop top!! I'll be reviewing each and every crop from her collection very soon.

As mentioned in a very recent review I have a huge love for Collectif coats and this moto has rocked my world. Yes I might own around 10 moto jackets, yes I'm addicted and I collect them like they are rare gems but hell how can I not with a fit like this!!??

I'm wearing this style in an 18UK and it fits like a dream with room to layer both in the arms and at the waist. I can also fully zip this style which is hard for my chest these days in most motos. My stand out favourote feature of this jacket has to be the cropped at the waist fit which is super flattering. Also the fact that this has bold silver hardware and epulates makes me heart sing! I've never really paired black faux leather with such pale prints and colours but I think it's a styling must from this point onwards.

A little birdie has also shown me the next season stock to come from Collectif and I can't wait to get my paws on the new colour way of this moto! It's going to blow your minds!!

Unique Vintage Plus Size Ivory Cream & Beauty Print Button Up Colvin Blouse - $68.00USD

But that's not all!! I've snuck another amazing UV look into this blog post! Each and every season Unique Vintage blows my mind with their new prints! With makeup, gum ball, salon, floral and plaid they have a print and style for every one moods and this week I'm absolutely smitten with their makeup prints! 

It's very rare to see me in a ivory coloured blouse let alone a button up but this amazing beauty/makeup print was a must have. Made from light and soft chiffon this blouse is the essential summer staple and the colour and print will blow your mind! 

The print features all of the essential tools to beautify yourself and some super cute cats eye specs plus an amazing fit. Now this is the first time I've worn a UV blouse and in a 2XL it actually fits! While I wear XL and 2XL at Unique Vintage I've aways had issues with button up tops and my chest but this fits over the twins and looks great with only a little minor pulling on the buttons but this is easily fixed with a no push up bra which I'm wearing in this shoot. Another amazing feature of this blouse has to be the sleeves. With larger upper arms it can be really hard to find a shirt that fits my chest and arms without being an overly shapeless blob like fit but the waist is fitted on this shirt and the sleeves are ajustible. Yes you read it you you can ajust these sleeves as they have side ties which means it can be tigher or looser - what ever you feel most comfortable with.

Honestly more short sleeve blouses need this option as no two women's upper arms are alike and for the plus size ranges it would be a perfect fit choice. 

I've opted to tie this top at the waist with a floppy bow as that's always my preference but this also looks great fully buttoned and tucked into high waisted skirts or loose with the perfect skinny pants or jeans. Plus your accessory options are endless thanks to the them and colours used. 

Now UV can we please have even more prints and colour options for this top as it's a wardrobe essential for all retro/pinup clothing fans. I'd also love to see this print on a black background with bold white and pink accents and matching accessories.  

Many thanks to the AWESOME Damien Bowerman for shooting this bold blouse!