It’s been a while since I’ve updated my blog. To be honest, there has just not been much motivation, so when Fleur of England reached out to me with their AW21 collection I was ready to get back in the saddle and work with an amazing all-female team.
The Brand
Fleur of England embodies romance and delicacy with a size range from A-G cups. I think this is lovely to see for such beautiful delicate pieces.
This season is a pretty special milestone for the brand. Fleur of England celebrate their 20th anniversary and enter a new era which is pretty exciting!
To this day Fleur still designs every piece and selects the fabrics herself. Everything is crafted in Europe as sustainably as possible.
Having dabbled in aerial dancing myself it was obvious the collection I was drawn to the most was Marlena. Inspired by the circus and aerial performers symbolising strength and celebrating the female form. The intricate design of Marlena’s bespoke lace features hand-drawn acrobats and their beautiful shapes.
The Bra
The collection comes in a beautiful antique gold and offers three bra styles. The balcony bra, strap balcony bra and the boudoir bra (soft cup). I opted for the strap balcony bra for a soft and delicate style but with a bit of edge. Also, it is a style I have yet to own.
The majority of the bra is comprised of silk (straps, band). The cups feature sheer Italian tulle and intricate bespoke guipure embroidery. Finished off with 24-carat gold plated hardware. An updated clip has been added to allow you to wear the straps as a racerback (I like that this is optional).
The strap balcony bra comes in sizes 30D-E, 32A-F, 34A-DD, 36A-D, 38B-D. My current bust measurement is 34″. I referred to Fleur of England’s size chart for reference and decided to go with a size 32E. My usual size but you know… can vary depending on style and brand.
However, the bra either runs slightly large or the shape of the bra is not suited to my bust shape as I am quite shallow.
I am currently wearing the bra band adjusted on the tightest hooks and although I am happy with the fit of the wires, I would prefer to size down to a size 30E as the tulle puckers and does not sit flat against the top of my bust. I do think the fit would be fine for a fuller bust though. For now, I will have to make this size work by adjusting the straps.
A new and improved size range has also been introduced. Anything above an E cup has a U shaped back to ensure it fits comfortably and is supportive. I’ve worn it for long periods and can confirm that it sits nicely and doesn’t move or dig in throughout the day. Great wearability for such a delicate piece.
There are three types of bottoms in the Marlena collection. The brief, ouvert brief and the thong. I decided to go with the thong. I love the simplicity of the design as it allows the beautiful embroidery to shine without being too much. Super comfortable for all-day wear with a touch of elegance.
The thong comes in sizes XS-2X. I’m wearing a size S, though in future I would prefer to go for a size M so the waistband doesn’t dig in.
The Verdict
Generally, when I’m trying a new brand I will always refer to their sizing charts to determine which size will fit best. After I have received and fit tested the pieces, I can then play around with sizing to achieve my perfect fit for the next set.
Overall I really like this design. The silk is beautiful and much care has been taken with the fine little details. The pieces are very neatly sewn on the inside and look equally as good inside and out. I find the quality is definitely up to my standards for luxury classic lingerie styles. Though it will take me a few tries to find my perfect bra fit which is always the case when trying a new brand without being able to try things on in person.
I’m giving Fleur of England my seal of approval and hope to see some of you in Marlena!
Till the next set.
Bisous,
Ashlee