Elements Rainwear

Over the last few winters I've noticed lots of pinups sporting some amazing rainwear. Being from soggy old Melbourne there is a huge need for stylish, vintage inspired raincoats that actually compliment your figure apposed to hiding it.

Elements Rainwear have answered our prayers with a huge selection of coats in retro and modern style coats, hats, umbrellas and more. If it's going to product you for the rain and wind Elements Rainwear have got you covered.

 

 

 

Ruby Raincoat - £51.01

With my figure and own personal style I wanted to pick a jacket that would hug my curves and protect my hair - the important things yes?

So after window shopping on the amazing webstore I ordered the Ruby Raincoat in the NAG2 clear PVC with black polka dots. I've always wanted a clear raincoat and the addition of polka dots won me over instantly.

Size wise I went to the fit gods (Elements Rainwear customer service) and we chatted about my measurements and what would fit me best. The size I ended up going with was a 3XL so be sure to check the size chart and add 3 or 4 inches to your actual measurements if you will be wearing this style with many layers.



When Ruby arrived I was blown away with the stunning clear PVC and instantly tried it on over my skater dress. The 3XL is a very firm fit on arms (an inch or two more in the upper arm would be perfect) but perfect for my waist. I tend not to button up any coats over my chest so this style is perfect for me - always need to show a cheeky bit of boobie! The coat is fully shaped to the waist with a flowing skirt, open placket, button down detail, side pockets, matching belt, 7 stainless post poppers and a drawstring hood. I also ordered the PVC belt in black to pair with this coat but as soon as I wore it I knew I loved the coat without.


 

As you can see from the images we took this piece is retro perfection and due to the polka dot print so many colours pop beneath it. For this photo shoot I wanted to add a little pop off colour so I paired the Ruby with a Dangerfield flamingo border dress and it really pops with when mixed with this clear PVC fabric.

Not a fan of clear coats? Well most styles have a huge selection of colour and sheerness options so you can find the perfect colour for any outfit. Just look at all the choices!

What I love most about Elements Rainwear is the brilliant selection of coats be I short or long. You can pick the perfect bright mod coat or a classic trench. Choose a more modern look or go full retro and if you love a style but don't want to over do it then order it once again in another colour!



After testing the fit of the Ruby I think I'll be sticking to this specific style and ordering one or two more colours in the future. I'm smitten with the GRT1 dark green shade and the Pink or Black based solid polka dots are just too adorable - you can never have too many polka do goodies in your wardrobe.

More Lyra

When you find a figure flattering, curve embracing, amazingly stunning dress like the Lyra you will find yourself ordering each and every version ever released. Or if you're like me, you might even hunt the internet wide to see if you can snap up any other versions that may exist! The addiction is real and this dress is a must have the item all year round.

 

From summer to winter I wear my Lyra's. Pairing them with a strappy pair of heels or flats in the summer as the slowing sleeve covers my arms while still being lightweight enough to keep me cool. In winter it's the perfect base to layer with chunky retro belts, long cardigans, tights, leather boots and trench coats.



The Lyra is a faux wrap dress with a flowing capped sleeve, waist tie or back tie and a full skirt. The mixture of a 96% Polyester / 4% Elastine fabric helps this dress skim over you hips and hang beautifully while really hugging your waist and bust.

I'm wearing my usual size 16 and the fit is as per usual - PERFECTION!



Sadly I missed out on being able link you to this stunning floral print but never fear as there is a selection of amazing prints and solids you can check out both the plus and standard section of the Lady V London website.

 



As I wear a size 16 in this dress I can shop both sections and if you are a busy size 18 be sure to size down to the 16 as it will be a perfect fit.

I think I need to snap up some more florals and that amazing watermelon print!

Inspired Pinup

One of my favourite local stores in Australia has to be inspired instantly! They always stock a variety of brilliant Hell Bunny garments, cardigans and all of those core pieces you need to complete a perfect pinup look.

 

 

So for this post I'm focusing on some of the items I've recently snapped up from their webstore featuring prints a plenty and some adorable colours.

HELL BUNNY Aggy Retro Scottie Dogs Blouse -  $39.95

I'm a huge fan of all things Hell Bunny but over the years I've never managed to model or review any tops so obviously this had to be rectified.

For my first ever HB top review I've gone for the adorable Aggy Blouse with the retro scotty dog print. Now this piece is the perfect retro top for work or play as it has a relaxed fit, a short cuffed sleeve and the sweetest puppy print I've ever seen.

A mixture of pink, cream and black the Aggy blouse is simple to style and looks amazing with anything from high waisted jeans to a wiggle skirt. I'm wearing this style in a 2XL and the fit is perfect as it's roomy enough for my bust with limited stretch in the fabric.

Even though I'm a true crazy cat lady I have a soft spot for puppers as well and this print is going to be on weekly rotation for work.

 

 

 

HELL BUNNY Sailor Girl Rockabilly Mini Dress - $59.95

MAK Red  Cropped Cardigan Sweater - $31.95

Ever since I shot and wore my gingham mini dress I've been hunting for another print to add to my collection a the Sailor Girl mini has been found. Featuring an amazing framed sailor lass portrait giving us another spin on the classic nautical vibe.



A pale blue slightly stretchy cotton with amazing black accents, buttons and print, a smocked back and fully adjustable straps so you can customize the fit that fits you best.

 



I'm wearing this in a 2XL and it fits just like my gingham version. I can't wait until the wear warms up so I can wear this all summer long!  Now please note that this style is a mini so it will sit just above your knees so it's not a super mini and perfect for warmer weather.



My original plan was to pair this with a solid black MAK sweater but I mixed up my choices and I love the results. I'm wearing the red cropped cardigan in a size 1XL and I'm so smitten with these cardigans. I can easily go down to the size XL as the stretch makes this one a little loose but I just love the softness, length and feel of these amazing cover ups. I foresee a full collection happening!

 

HELL BUNNY Red/Black Dot 50's Dress - SOLD OUT

MAK Black Cropped Cardigan Sweater - $31.95

This dress has been on my lust list for many years and I was lucky enough to snap one up before they sold out! Hell Bunny's classic 50's halter neck dress with a full swing skirt in a lush white and black polka dot print. Being a huge fan of all things dot related I just adore a classic print when paired with the ruby red buttons and piping make this style absolutely dreamy.



Like the Sailor Girl dress this style has a panel of sheering at the back to insure the best fit at your bust and waist plus the halter style is able to be worn high or low. 

I'm wearing the 2XL and the fit is firm but really flattering and I just adore how the bust line pops when I pair this with red cardigans and wraps. The midi length skirt also offers lots of leg coverage and heaps of fabric to twirl.

 

 



Paired with the black version of my MAK cropped cardigan for that perfect sleek pinup look with a little touch of my gothic roots.

Safari Chic

Erstwilder's latest release takes us to the deserts, tropical rain forests and vast savannas of Africa. The stunning Out Of Africa range features some of your absolute favourite African animals created in brooch, earring and necklace form.

 



This collection has created some of my absolute favourite brooches to date as they've created some of the cutest little critters.



 



Young Warthog Brooch - $39.95

When I first saw the Out of Africa range, I gravitated to so many different animals but after growing up on films such as The Lion King  a Warthog was top of my list.

This adorable young warthog reminds me of Pummba, and I'll be signing Hakuna Matata whenever I wear him as the creators of this brooch state - he's renowned for such a philosophy.

Again Erstwilder are rocking those adorable long lashes and look at that snout! It's so cute you just want to tickle it!

 



 

Zesty Zebra Brooch - $39.95

Zebra stripes have been a part of my wardrobe for many years so it's only logical that I also need a Zesty Zebra to add to my stripped collection.

What I love most about this piece is the unique design. For zebras or horses the mane is usually 100% attached to the head and sometimes gets rather lost in the resin or design. But the spare space between the two in this brooch really makes it pop.

 

 



Now I've paired these with a bold leopard print but when you wear this piece with solid colours it's even bolder and stronger.

 



Finnicky Fennec Fox Brooch - $39.95

I'm forever as sucker for a fox brooch and the Fennec Fox is one of my absolute most loved animals on earth. Those huge ears, soft pale fur and sweet little peepers make me swoon and I've always loved this little creature.

The little upside down heart feature around the nose and mouth is a super sweet feature and just look at those whiskers.



Erstwilder have created the perfect version of the Fennec Fox with Finnicky and I'll be wearing this piece non stop.

 

Plus for the entire month of August they will be donating $2 from the sale of every design within to the African Wildlife Foundation! Reasons like these plus many more are why I absolutely adore the team at Erstwilder HQ.

Return To Oz

 

With that spooky time of year right around the corner it's time to get planning. For my latest shoe review I went with a  Wizard of Oz Vibe with a few simple styling ideas.

 

SABRINA-07 Red Glitter - $81.95  

 

It's amazing what two pairs of printed stockings can create. For a Dorothy inspired look pair a black and white stripped full stocking with the amazing Sabrina-07 in red. These ruby slippers will evoke the perfect Dorothy vibe and the colour clash will really pop when paired with a blue gingham Dorothy costume. A little more quirky and cute than your usual boring costume stockings.  

 



 

The Sabrina features a 4 Inch (90mm) Block Heel Mary Jane Pump so it's a wear all day style heal with a great comfy solid base.Perfect for dress up parties or every day pops of colour and sparkle.

 

 

I'm looking for cute casual looks to pair with these and wit such a comfortable fit I'll be needing these in black as well.

 

 

FURY-110 Black Faux Leather  - $159.95

 

Now for a darker look with the evil Wicked Witch of the West. Originally the witch was wearing the stockings we paired with the ruby slipper but for this photo shoot we've styled these amazing gothic boots with bold red and black stockings. 

 

 

Featuring a 2 3/4 Inch (70mm) Kitten Heel  Ankle Boot Featuring Multiple Ornamental Straps and Bat Buckle Details and Front Zip Closure. The bold buckles and bats, with stunning silver hardware make these a perfect witchy boot.  The pointed to also screams wicked witch and when styled with any gothic look these look amazing. But they also rock when simply styled with a black skinny leg jean and band tee.

 

 

The kitten heel also offers all day comfort so you can wear either look and not have to worry about sore feet at the end of your dress up evening. Now I have to figure out if I'm more of a Dorothy or a Wicked Witch.

 

 

 

Herbs & Heart Review and Giveaway!

Chilly Melbourne winters do absolutely nothing for my skin. For these cooler months, my skin battles sickness and the day in day out heating of an office environment. The end result - dry, patchy and really drained skin.

 



So with all of these issues it seems like the perfect time to test some amazing products and help one of you my readers regain that stunning glowing skin!

Now this is not some try it once and stop using the product review. I've taken the time, trailed this set over a month and by using it each and every day I've definitely noticed some improvements. A vegan-friendly skincare company, HERBS + HEART, realise the raw benefits of green ingredients and have formulated these amazing products regiments using natural and ethically sourced green foods to feed and nourish the face.

 

 



Herbs and Hearts Primal Instincts Deluxe Set   - $120.00
Plus my extras shown above
 

If you want the best value and some truly life changing products the Primal Instincts set is for you.  This all-inclusive set features the ‘H+H Face Mud’, ‘H+H Skin Tonic’, your choice of Hydration System, and ‘H+H Elixir.’

As stated on the product page each piece included in this set has a mission and when used daily create that glowing skin we all adore. Packaged perfectly with great easy to read packaging - I used these straight out of the box due to the helpfulness of the stickers.

What do H+H promise?
 

Use 'H+H Face Mud' for deep cleansing with gentle exfoliation that sloughs away grime and dead skin cells, revealing polished, fresh skin ready to absorb nutrients of a toner and moisturiser.
A toner is essential to deliver rapid hydration and essential nutrients, the actives of our 'H+H Skin Tonic' locking in moisture with skin brightening actives.

Protect the skin barrier against harsh environmental factors with the aid of a high performance moisturiser, choosing a hydration system that suits your preference. Our moisturisers last 24 hours, ensuring well hydrated skin all day long.

For an extra boost for days when you need a bit extra pampering, or for the perfect under make up base, finish of with our 'H+H Elixir', a potent serum with light refracting gold particles to give you a youthful glow naturally.

Do they deliver the goods?

Very much so. When you use each and every piece as recommended your face will instantly be more supple and hydrated. I used the 'H+H Skin Tonic', 'H+H Aloe Whip' and the 'H+H Two Drops' daily for a month. The tonic is a clean and stunning toner that is the perfect base without over drying and the Aloe Whip as a daily moisturizer. For the end of the day routine I used the Two Drops Anti-aging which are rich in Vitamin C, E, & A. It also comprises of numerous essential fatty acids, including the perfect balance of Omega 3, 6 & 9. They work their magic over night and you wake feeling really lovely. These 3 items alone made my skin shine in the best way but all the other goodies have their own place in my routine. This piece is a solo item an not included in the Deluxe set but I added tis to my order as my over 30 skin needs a little more help.

The 'H+H Face Mud' is a great daily exfoliator or mask and I used this every second day to exfoliate dead skin or left it on for 5 minutes get a fully fresh feel.

 

My stand out favourite item from this set has to the Elixir. This super strong serum gives you an instant boost on your most drained and bad skin days. What else does this little bottle of magic do? The enzymes of the Green Coffee bean are loaded with anti-oxidants to fight free radicals, soothing puffy eyes and reducing the appearance of under eye dark circles. Plus the amazing jasmine fragrance makes me swoon and my husband absolutely loves when I wear this. The matte finish also gives you a great base under and makeup primer.



With this set and the extra Two Drops I also added the brilliant Bath Bliss - Floral Milk Bath Soak! Right now I'm all about bath milk, balls or soaks. The brief luxury of such a product nourishes my skin on a cold winters evening and makes my skin feel amazing. I've got a fairly boring small bath, so I could not show you the stunning visual that this product creates but when you see this you'll want to dive straight in. There is something so magical about floral milk baths, the stunning sent, floating petals and that smooth and soft skin feeling make you feel amazing.

Now let's get to the bit you've all been waiting for! The amazing crew at Herbs and Heart have given me a full Primal Deluxe set to give to one of you my awesome readers!!! Yes you read that correctly you get the whole set!

You will receive a big box of amazing goodies featuring full sizes of :

Face Mud

Aloe Whip

Skin Tonic

Exlixir

 

 

How do you win this brilliant skin rescuing set? Well it's super simple. For this contest you will need a to be signed up to Instagram to enter this giveaway.

 

Rules :

• Like HERBS + HEART (@herbsnheart)   Instagram page in order to be eligible - we will checking!
• Like my page @teerwayde
• Find the the image above for the Giveaway on my account and repost tagging @herbsnheart @teerwayde with the hashtag #curvestokillherbsnheartgivaway
• The giveaway will start at 9am EST on the 15th of August and will close at 11pm EST on the 22nd of August
• You can only enter once

Good luck and I can't wait to see how many of you enter!

Bravo Brava

I'm forever getting questions about the best bra's for larger cup sizes and even when I'm fully clothed people just need to know what gives me the best shape. My absolute favourite place to shop up a storm for all of my bras is Brava! They are Australia's larger cup specialists and I've been a loyal lover of their online website and stores for many years.

For this shoot/review I've gone for 3 completely different styles as my cup size has changed. I'll be covering a strapless, a white every day style and a super sexy sheer black number. Featuring my absolute favoruite - Ewa Michalak and a new brand for me - Goddess! All styles are paired with a selection of robes and my beloved Underbust Black Leather Longline Corset from Orchard Corsety.

Two of these styles were purchased in store with the help of the Highpoint Brava fitting specialists and one was ordered via the website. The results are a great fit for all of these speficic bras but each is a different size. It's all about fit and with the difference in cups, support and fabric a different cup or back is needed.

 

Ewa Michalak Bibi BM Bra - $99.95

When I was fitted recently I was given a variety of prints, colours and styles but I really did not take notice of the Bibi BM bra at first. I've never purchased a white bra so I though I'd try it on but who knows if it will work for me. Well from the moment I slipped into this lacey white number I was sold. I popped my head out of the change room and flashed the girls saying 'yep this is the ONE' as the Bibi is a silky form of perfection.



I'm wearing a size 16J and the fit is larger in the cup (I'm a HH usually) Because there is no padding or molding on the cup. This however does not stop it from giving me that iconic Ewa Michalak Fit. I've been so use to padded cups so I've never really tried a stretch less molded shape until now and I'm officially a convert.



This has to be one of the most amazingly comfortable bra's in my collection. The white stretch fabric and lace perfectly holds me while the thick strap holds me in and pulls me up.  I feel like I'm super late to the Bibi BM party so I'll be needing to make up for lost time and order more colours and prints!

 



Goddess Adelaide Strapless Bra - $99.95

I actually went in to the store looking to purchase a nude Curvy Kate strapless bra but it seems my size was sold out so I tried a few other strapless styles and feel in love with the retro almost bullet bra look of the Adelaide Strapless Bra in black.

 

 

 



It's always daunting to shop for a strapless style when your large chested as you think everything will roll down, not support well or just look horrible. But From the moment I put the Goddess Adelaide on I knew it had to be mine. The larger cup may not sit flat between my bust but the lift, shape and very retro feel of this piece made me want it for both strapless looks and lingerie shoots.





I usually would go for the tried and tested (and reviewed personally) Curvy Kate Luxe style but I really love this style visually as a fashion bra. I'm wearing the 16H and it's amazingly comfortable for a strapless plus with or without straps the style really rocks visually.

Ewa Michalak Fetysz Czarny SMN Bra - $109.95

Now the firs two styles shown in this post were snapped up in store but this amazing piece was an instant online purchase as I was terribly impatient and wanted to get it before it sold out!

My love for Ewa bra's is very strong and they are taking over my collection because they look and feel amazing.  The Fetysz Czarny SMN bra is a very unique cage bra style. A new twist on the cage theme with a sheer tulle base and adjustable round straps around the breast.

These simple yet bold little straps create amazing shape and contrast and when worn correctly make that iconic Ewa Michalak round shape we all lust after.  I've noticed some uploaded images on social media have the straps worn incorrectly so be sure to check here or the product shots for the right way.

I ordered my most comfortable and correct size 16HH as the sheer fabric would not hide anything if it was not fitted correctly and the fit is PERFECTION!

 

 



I'm absolutely in love with this very sexy and strong style and I can't stop wearing it! It's great for the bedroom or as a fashion style popping out of lower necklines or under sheer blouses

With some fun pasties to hide the headlights ;)

One other brilliant feature of this bra is the strap lock. An invention I’ve never seen before where you can adjust your straps to the perfect place and lock them in – they don’t move!!!! Such a brilliant concept. So if you are in need of a new bra wardrobe update I can and will always recommend Brava for all of your lifting needs. Be it instore or online the friendly staff are able to help you get the right fit.