BlackMilk Sparkles

It's BlackMilk Clothing review time!!! This week I'm excited to be reviewing a few of my favourite pieces, each with their own style, sass and effortless brilliance. 



My go to size at BM is XL so for each piece I review here will always be that size or for kimono an open size. So lets dish! 



When the Christmas range was released, I loved so many pieces from the jackalope print to the sparling romper but there was one magic ruby red glitter wonder that I had to have in my life. 

All That Glitters Velvet Red Wrap Longline Dress - $119.00

This stunning faux wrap dress made my jaw drop when I first saw it online but I had no idea how amazing the glitter fabric was until I got it in my hands. A shimmering stretch red fabric with a floaty non restricted sleeve, the ever so flattering on a big bust wrap neckline and a skater style skirt. 

I'm such a sucker for any form of wrap dress and this piece really has my heart. You'll be mesmerized by the shimmer, and the compliments will keep coming. I've only worn this once, but so many people stopped me just to say how stunning this piece was. 

The size and fit is perfect as the wrap bust accommodates many different bust sizes be it big or small it will show off your best features and the deep neckline really packs that wow factor. Just be sure to wear a plunge bra or boobie tape in order to get that perfect bust look.



Length wise I'm happy to say that even though this style sits above my knees it covers the toosh perfectly and I have no flashing fears. Sometimes I worry that my behind might shorten the skirt too much but on my 5'6.5 frame it works perfectly. The reflective glitter effect really does make this dress stand out and as you can see the skirt falls perfectly over my hips.



 

Matte 3/4 Sleeve Pocket Midi Dress - $109.00

I live in midi lengths at work as they look sleek and work with the amount of movement I do daily. When I first tried BlackMilk I was searching for the best skater skirt on the market and they answered my prayers with two styles! Now they have rocked my socks of with the best 3/4 style midi skater style dress! 



I always gravitate to all black, and this is a must have wardrobe piece for every woman. The soft fabric is an absolute joy to wear, and it shows just the right amount of skin. The scoop neckline works perfectly with my bust and the sleeves really firm and thin out my arms. This piece also has pockets! The soft fabric is an absolute joy to wear, and it shows just the right amount of skin. 












This fabric is multi seasonal as a mid weight easy dry stretch fabric much like the kind you'd find in all of the Blackmilk leggings and skirts. Cool enough for the warmer months if you like to cover up and perfectly paired with warm coats, boots and stockings. I can't wait to style this throughout 2019.



Wanting to stick with a sleek all black look I've paired this piece with my new Kreepsville666 bat waist belt in an 2XL/3XL. I've found the fit on this one a little too roomy but a few strong stitches will fix that as I ordered the wrong size. I love how the gun metal grey pairs with the black fabric used in this midi dress and I know I'll be pairing all of my Kreepsville belts and other harnesses with this style all year long.

Koson Flowers Rio Midi Dress - $150.00

 

Sticking with the midi styles as I find they compliment my figure the most I also snapped up the Koson Flowers Rio Midi. What drew me to this stunning floral number was the peekaboo and bow plus the flowing cap sleeve. The location of the cut out is just beneath your bra line so you'll only be showing a little upper tummy skin section. I've always had a soft spot for designs like this and I wear them showing off the little touch of bare skin with pride or if I feel the need I pair it with a black bodysuit beneath.

 

I find these almost 40's style sleeve so flattering when you have larger upper arms and perfect for summer wear as the skim the upper arm apposed to tightly wrapping it. The flower print is absolutely stunning and something I've not had the pleasure of including in my wardrobe until now. 

The bow tie feature in the middle of the bust is a separate piece and can be tied to your personal preference or comfort level. I personally adore the fit on my bust and can't wait to wear this out over summer. This will be a definite favourite for those superhot evenings in beer gardens and maybe even some daggy dance floor moves. 

I find this style so flattering I hope that there will be more versions of it in the future. Be it other colour ways or even a non-cut out version for colder weather. It's so amazing that it needs to be in every single BM print!

 

 

 

Now that I've figured out the perfect size for me in all BlackMilk garments, I wanted to ask if you, my lovely readers, would like me to review any specific garments from their collections? I'm going to be featuring more over 2019 but I also want to help you guys with all your fit questions. 

I'm all ears and keen to try other styles as well as my core go to pieces. 

Thank you to Liz for capturing each of these pieces perfectly and always making me giggle on each and every shoot. I have no class when we get together! 



Misfits

Recently I've been wearing more swing styles than form fitting dresses and it's mainly due to comfort and that full skirted silhouette. I've become so addicted to such style that my wardrobe almost burst with the all of the full fabric! But every now and then I get a craving for a super sexy wiggle dress and I've had my eye on the Misfit dress from Deadly Dames ever since I saw the BTS images on Instagram.

Deadly Dames MisfitsDress in Black - $128.00

The Misfit is a figure hugging, slinky sexy wiggle dress with an 80's rock chic vibe that will turn heads! Made from super stretchy techno fabric that hugs your curves and a shape that mixes the best of the 1950's and 80's together for one hot as hell little black dress.

With a deep v style illusion and mesh insert this dress does wonders for buxom girls like myself while showing off your waist and hips. Now I was super worried I'd look too big in this style as it's essentially a high neckline and super tight but the fabric is really flattering and I swear everyone who wears the Misfit Dress looks hot as hell, be it big or small. 

I'm wearing this style in an XL and it fits like a glove. I added a corset under this dress as I tend to when I shoot most items but I still feel amazing wearing this with a only a shapewear bodysuit beneath. This fabric is magic and you will brilliant when wearing this dress.

The Misfit Dress comes with a thin black belt but I choose to wear my Deadly Dames think black belt from my Faux Leather Wiggle Dress as I find they look better on me. Now it's time to save up and get the another colour way as this style comes in red, pink zebra and tiger print. 

Many thanks to the always freaking brilliant Damien Bowerman for snapping these shots! We have so many more outfits to share so be sure to check back every few days for a new post! 

Tragic Beautiful

If there is one style of casual dress that I can say I'm addicted to, it has to be the very dark and always brilliant Wednesday Addams dress. I've got a cupboard full of this style frock and I continue to add more as more colourways and collar options hit the market. 

Disturbia Clothing Thursday Dress - $84.95

Kixies 

The Thursday dress is my current go to winter dress for day or night and I'm absolutely in love with the simple yet unique design. With a full sleeve, free flowing hip and nipped in waist/under bust section this style is both flattering and super comfortable. The extra addition of a silk ribbon bow tie adds that little something extra that most of my Wednesday Addams inspired outfits don't have. There is also a sneaky back print as shown bellow!

I adore each and every design from Disturbia and love the gothic and creepy style/vibe they have created with their range. As I'm always more comfortable and, let's face it, live in all black items, this adds a little more mod goth inspired style to my wardrobe.



I'm wearing this style in a size XL but I could have easily have slipped into a Large given the stretchy fabric and roomy hips and waist. The viscose fabric is a dream to wear as it's lightweight and can be layered with ease. This dress will suit all season but winter as well so you can wear it constantly! I'm actually wearing this to work today and heading straight to the David Bowie Exhibition afterwards. It's so versatile and a dream to wear.

I wanted to put a little 60's spin on the Thursday Dress so I opted to tease my hair and add a bold and quirky set of sunglasses from my collection. These were purchased from eBay and say 'Cross my heart and hope to die, stick a needle in my eye' on each frame.

There are heaps of other items at Tragic Beautiful with this Addams Family vibe and my lust list is getting huge! Tragic Beautiful are an Australian based company (yay for more Aussies!) and have a huge range of alternative clothing, accessories and housewares.

Cozmic Death Dress - $79.00

Addams Crop Top - $49.00

Doll Dress - $65.00

Addams Velvet Dress - $84.00

I'll take one of each please! The 90's are coming back it seems with a moon, sun and stars print fabric all mixed with a little evil. I love the crop style top and would love to wear it with both swing and pencil skirts.

I have the Dolly Dress and it's a great fit, very mod looking and a dream to wear. The bold buttons add a little more drama and the ribbon waist tie is adorable. Then I think it's an absolute must to get a version of this dress in velvet. Is there anything more delicious than black velvet?



Rosemary Velour Dress - $84.95

Pentagram Wednesday Dress - $65.00

There are two options for a Wednesday Addams style textured fabric dress. The Addams Velvet above and the Rosemary Velour dress from Disturbia. I love the extra addition of bold alien head buttons on this style. Then finally there is the Pentagram Wednesday Dress which has the same fit as the Thursday style but with a short sleeve and a large white pentagram printed on the back.

I think I'm getting greedy with this theme/style but I can't help it!



The voodoo that you do

A few weeks back I packed my bags full of my favourite brands and headed into one of the most brilliant locations in Melbourne - LuWow! Inspired by my surroundings I packed my two favourite pieces from Voodoo Vixen that screamed Tikibar-tastic.

With both nautical and tropical prints and the most perfect accessories to match, myself and Robin Elk had an absolute ball working in this brilliant location. 

Joni Dress -  £49.99 

Sweet Sweater in Red Cotton - $39.99

When I laid eyes on the Joni dress and its adorable nautical print I was instantly in love. A perfect shade of navy covered with anchors and ship wheels with accents of cream lace. From first glance I was not sure how high the bust was on this style or if it would suit me but I took my chances and as you can sit it fits like a dream. 

In an XL the Joni hugs my curves, nips me in perfectly at the waist and has ample room in the bust. This fabric a non stretch cotton and is super firm so it really holds you in and I found the waist a little roomy yet with a waist belt it set perfectly. This style comes with its own thin waist belt in matching fabric and lace but I like the look of a bold red belt on the navy fabric a lot more. 

I paired this with my absolute favourite cover up - the Sweet Sweater from Heart of Haute. It's my go to cardigan and the bright red fabric pairs perfectly this fabric and I love the combo. I think it's clear that I wear these sweaters to death but I can't help it! They match everything. 

The swing skirt of the Joni Dress looks great with or a petticoat (as shown here with) and you can play around with complimenting colour underneath such a bright red, white or even use the same shade of navy. 

Voodoo Vixen Hula Girl Skirt - TBA (sold out online) 

Pinup Girl Doris Top in Red - $54.00

Let's just take a moment to admire this tropical hula girl print and how the colours just pop! This super bright print is a everything I've been looking for in a summer skirt and I love that it's completely different from any other fuller style bottom in my colletion. With a built in belt and buckle you can tighten or loosen this waist ban with ease. This is great if you are not sure of your waist measurements or fluctuate every few months. I'm wearing the Hula Girl Skirt in an XL and it fits perfectly at the waist and glides over my hips. 

There is no need for a petticoat with this style as it has shorter length and each pleat ensures that a natural fullness is created. I paired this skirt with my Red Doris top and it red matches the bright colours in the fabric perfectly. Sometimes it's hard to pair reds as they are so varied in colour but this skirt is super simple to match tops and tanks and I can't wait to style it comes summer.

 Polly V Shorts - £24.99 

Maggie May Wiggle Dress - $65.00

Felicity Dress - £49.99 

I've fallen that hard for this fabric that I now need it in EVERYTHING. Lucky for me Voodoo Vixen have created a few more pieces to help me add more hula to my collection. 

Bettie Page BP475-CALAVERA Red Closed Toe Wedge With Skull Pattern -$145.00

I've also found the perfect pair of wedges not only to suit both of these outfits but to rock all year round and add that little pop of colour to when I'm wearing my usual uniform - all black.  These closed too skull patterned wedges from Bettie Page are the bees knees! Super high yet super comfy which is my two main goals with every shoe purchase. They pair wonderfully with tropical prints, tiki themed outfits and to be honest everything in my wardrobe. I just adore them so much and I'm addicted to Shoe Me Gorgeous!! 

Size wise while I usually have to size up to an 11US for bordello's and pinup couture but for these you will be fine if you order your standard AU size. I'm wearing these in an 11 and they are too big so I'll be needing one size down and then I'll be living in them. They also come in an all black version and I think I'll be needing to pick up a pair of those as well. 

I want it to be summer once again so I can wear these outfits out! 

Anchors, whips and polka dots

Swing or wiggle, swing or wiggle....I still can't decide which of these two styles captures my style and heart more. So to save me from  hours upon hours of turmoil I've come to the conclusion that both are awesome and suit me equally and because of this I'll fill my wardrobe all of the pinup girl frocks and skirts that fit into this category. 

Now that we are fully into the groove of 2015 I wanted to style and snap a few of my current must have styles from Pinup Girl Clothing and my current lust list for the first half of the year. As you already know PUG are my go to brand for all clothing and accessories and I'm forever checking into all of their social media and the 'coming soon' section to see what beautiful garments I can snap up next order! In this post I've reviewed 3 loves of 2014 and at the end you'll find a few newer styles tha have snuck their way onto my MUST HAVES list for 2015.

Renee Dress in Anchor Print - $132.00

Now this is the second Renee dress I own and it won't be the last! I first wore/reviewed the tipsy elephant version of this dress in the 5th issue of Adore Pinup and since then I've been an absolute convert. This stunning style is everything a girl could want in a summer frock and fits like a dream. 

In a size XL I'm completely comfortable, supported and have zero spilling. I have GG cup breasts and I'm 100% supported and covered in this built in bra area. Don't only does this style support a large chest  but it makes them look amazing, I wore this on Christmas day and had many boobie related compliments. I find that most of the bust areas if not all in both the Pinup Couture and Deadly Dames range are that well constructed and lined that you can go with out a bra. From the Vamp top and dresses to the Voodoo Vixen styles you don't have to worry about finding a strapless bra anymore and can wear all of these tops and dresses with confidence. 

The Renee also features a full swing style skirt, hidden pockets and a rich blue print covered in anchors. Now that I have two beautiful prints in style I will be needed both the black and red versions as soon as they hit the website. I'd love to style the plain fabrics over the cooler months and play with boleros and cardigans. 

I've paired this with my  favourite petticoat which is hidden beneath the swing skirt and I get my petticoats at Kat Frankes. For this dress I opted for the Lindy B: Long Petticoat Red which is a steal at $49.00. I've been looking for the perfect red petticoat for a while now and I'm loving this style from Lindy B. So light but still adds the right amount of volume to skirts and dresses. 

Lorelei Dress in Gray with polka dots - $130.00

Now I have been lusting after the Lorelei for a while now but I've never been too sure if it would suit my curves. But after seeing the bombshell that is Natalie Alvarado wearing it I knew I could rock the figure hugging wiggle dress as well. So I ordered the gray and black polka dot print and eagerly awaited the high collared beauty. 

Again in a size XL this dress is amazing fit wise. It slips on like a second skin and holds you in tightly. That tight that I should have opted for a bodysuit version of shapewear and not a corset. As you can see the top and bottom of my underbust show through as the fabric is stretchy and made to hug you in all the right places. Fashion and shapewear can be trail and error so next time I wear this I'll be sure to not wear the corset. 

The style is absolutely stunning though and I'm in love with both the style and colour of this dress. Whoever said gray is a drab colour was crazy as I think it works wonderfully on my pale skin, paired with my red locks. The Lorelei is such a great fit around every inch of my body and I'd love to see this high collard style become a top as it's a more modest version in my opinion of the Lauren top and I know a few girls out there have some issues with the deep plunge of the Lauren. 

 

Deadly Dames Tie Me Up dress in black and red fetish print - $136.00

I've been impatiently waiting for the Tie Me Up dress to be restocked so I could add a 3rd item to my Fetish Print collection. I saw a sneaky preview of this fabric years ago and have been crazy about it ever since. Covered in bullet bras, boots, whips, corsets and masks this is the most daring and most stunning print in my collection. The bold black print on the rouge red really pops and the styling possibilities are endless. You can be inspired by the print itself and pair this dress with leather or go a little softer and pair this with angora. 

With adjustable straps that tie up on your shoulders this dress can work for a huge amount of bust sizes and can be tightened or loosened when needed. I'm wearing these straps rather high as I've chosen a more full coverage bra and as you can see it pops through ever so slightly. If I chose say a balconette bra or a love plunge it might have a different effect. I was also not able to tie the straps correctly at the time so I'm wearing this style hanging down my back. When I wear this next I'll be sure to practice more and get a perfect pair of bows. 

It really is an outstanding dress and the adjustable busts on both the Renee and Tie Me up styles means that you don't necessarily have to have my stats or shape to wear these. You can have a big bust or small and they can still accommodate your curves.

Stardust Confetti: Galaxy Blue 1 Inch Dome - $25.00

Stardust Confetti: Red Slipper Medium Tear - $20.00

I also wanted to share with you my sparkletastic earrings paired with each outfit during this shoot. I picked up these two stunning pairs of Stardust Confetti earrings at Kat Frankies and they complete each outfit. I'm absolutely head over heels for these stunning earrings and feel fantastic whenever I wear them. Be it dressing up or dressing down I always feel like a million dollars with these babies sparkling in my ear. Be sure to check out all of the range available at Kat Frankies and you can also find Stardust Confetti on Etsy! 

So now that I've filled 2014 with all of my PUG favourite's it's time to look to the future and plan some new additions to my 2015 wardrobe. 

Obviously this year calls for bright colours and some absolutely stunning gothic formal wear. I can't wait to add more items to my collection and see what my girls at Pinup Girl Clothing create in 2015.

Many thanks to my amazing photographer Brooke Orchard for shooting these for me on a muggy and rainy day, it's amazing what we can create in this unpredictable Melbourne weather. I urge any of my readers based in Victoria or Australia to book in a shoot with Brooke this year. If you want to feel amazing and look perfectly pinup she is the best in the business!!

Cover Girl!

After a months of waiting I'm very excited to be able to share my Adore Pinup cover and editorial with you! Shot by the amazing Brooke Orchard Photography and styled by the best pinup clothing brand on earth Pinup Girl Clothing. Featuring a full interview, lots of outfits and accessories and a centrefold! That's right another centrefold! 

Above is the full editorial! You can purchase a copy of the magazine via the Adore Pinup Webpage and read the interview in full. This issue is the biggest yet and features Miss Victory Violet (NZ), Vanessa Frankenstein (GERMANY), burlesque performer Jacqueline Furey, Nadia Faye, THREE beauty tutorials and much more! Get your copy now! 

Now I can't control my urge to review items so while sharing these tear sheets with you I'm also going to be reviewing all the brilliant items I'm wearing. I styled this entire shoot (you can read more about it in the article) and I adore each and every item show. So I've added extra images from the shoot which did not make it into print. 

Lauren Top in Red - $60.00

Jenny Skirt in Cherry Border Print - $98.00

Hat - Vintage from Brooke's own personal collection

Shoes - Luichiny 

Amobea Handbag in Red Glitter (shown in the editorial image) - $98.00

For this editorial I'm wearing all items in a size XL. For non stretch garments in the Pinup Girl Clothing range I always purchase this size. Now lets start with the cover outfit! My two favorite pieces in PUG separates range are the Lauren top and Jenny Skirt. I own 3 of each now and I won't be content until all colours and styles are mine. 

Why am I such a fan of these items? They fit my curves and make my waist look tiny! It took years but I'm so very in love with the full style skirt and what it does for my body shape. The best part about both the skirt and the top is that they look good on all body shapes - big and small. While my bust looks great in the Lauren top it also looks amazing on a smaller bust. The Jenny skirt is also a great item of clothing to create curves where you might be missing them. 

While usually I'm not a huge fan of cherries the almost 3D image on the border print skirt has converted me. Paired with the deep and lush red of the Lauren and cinched in with my deadly dames faux leather belt this outfit almost looks like a dress. It seems to be my goal when purchasing tops and skirts these to find items that compliment each other as an outfit and on their own. I also made my dream harlequin print dress with a Jenny and Lauren a few months back. 

In the images featured in the magazine you will notice the Amobea Handbag in Red Glitter. This bag is a must have for every pinup girl's wardrobe and is a work of art. I have both the red and black glitter versions of this style and they are my go to handbag for every occasion. 

Marilyn Swimsuit in Green - $102.00

I braved a swimsuit for this shoot! What a sight for the locals from Williamstown who saw me walking about the streets in this get up. The Marilyn swimsuit was one of the first items I ever modeled for Pinup Girl Clothing. I've owned the leopard print version for almost 6 or 7 years now and it is as perfect as the day it arrived. But I've longed for the green version for so long and I'm absolutely in love now that I've had the chance to wear it. 

Super stretchy and form fitting, uplifting and supportive the Marilyn ticks all the boxes when it comes to the perfect swimsuit. Fully lined with power mesh to hug those curves, padded bust and adjustable straps this suit  fits line a dream. The gathered design  is phenomenal and hides any imperfections, a feature most swimsuits highlight. This suit also comes with optional diamante clips which adds that little bit of old Hollywood glam to your summer.

For an extra styling option with your Pinup Girl Clothing swimsuits I highly recommend wearing them as bodysuits under high waisted and swing skirts. I've been doing it for years so I can wear my beachwear all year round.

Renee Dress in Tipsy Elephant Print - $132.00

When I first saw a sneaky preview of the Renee dress I was dying to try it on as I'd only seen it on a size small model. The usual worries came to mind - how will I survive braless and what will my tummy look like popping through? But all my fears when out the window when I slipped into this fresh and stunning new design. 

The Renee is amazing and I never thought I'd feel this comfortable without a bra on! Made from cotton satin this dress has a lined bodice, adjustable straps, full circle skirt and a faux tie bust. But adjusting the straps and placing your breasts in the right area you are fully supported and safe for wearing this dress all day. It makes your cleavage look amazing and the straps won't pull or hurt your neck line many other halters do with larger busts. I'm a 34GG and it fits me perfectly.

The peekaboo style cut out at the waist is almost an optical illusion drawing all the attention to the smallest part of your waist. This makes for a very flattering and super slimming dress. There is also an extra cute hidden feature which makes this dress a little more special - pockets!  So now I'm absolutely sold on the Renee and need to purchase the anchor print asap. I think it's safe to say that this is THE dress for summer! 

Evelyn Dress in Vintage Red Rose - $120.00

Wicker Baguette Purse in red with fruit charm - $78.00

Shoes - Luichiny 

Hell Bunny Burgundy Petticoat - $58.00

Then finally we have the Evelyn which is a style I've long lusted for but never purchased. A classic style garden party dress with a bold red rose print, full skirt and a peasant style bust. This style is usually photographed with it's matching bolero but for this shoot I wanted to show the dress on it's own and have be the main feature. The print is stunning and paired with my red hair and pale skin I think it's a perfect match. The peasant style bust/blouse works wonderfully for my chest and the waist line is form fitting, giving me that great hourglass shape. There is a little bit of stretch in this garment but not too much. So be sure to check the size chart for the closest match to your measurements. 

With such a stunning and bold print I did not want to over accessorize so I chose a matching pair of red platform pumps and the amazing Wicker Baguette bag from the Pinup Couture line of handbags. I've been admiring wicker style purses for a while and this will be the first of many. 

The Wicker Baguette Handbag offers enough space for everything you'll need and makes a bold statement. Pair it with beach outfits, spring and summer frocks or solid colours in the evening. The possibilities are endless and I know once you have one in your hands you'll need to collect the lavender, green and black versions. 

I'm so happy I could share this full editorial and extras with you and I need to thanks Brooke Orchard, Pinup Girl Clothing, the team at Adore Pinup and my dear friend Liz for working on this with me. It was an absolute dream team and I love the results.