Holiday shopping. We all have to do it, but few of us actually relish the idea. While you’re trying to figure out what to get everyone on your list, why not get a little something for yourself to boot? The holiday season may be a time of gift-giving but there’s no rule that says you can’t give yourself a few gifts too.

So, what do you really want this year? Why not treat yourself to something delicate and gorgeous? Here’s how you can up your lingerie game just in time for the festivities.

Get a little festive with your colors

‘Tis the season… to look wonderful in lingerie. Yes, that’s right. There’s nothing like donning some of your favorite underwear pieces and feeling like an absolute goddess this holiday season. If you’re ready to take things to the very next level, there’s a neat little idea that you may well want to try. Why not get a little festive when it comes to your color choices?

Investing in a deep red lingerie set could be just what you need right now. Remember, your underwear can be as unique as you are. Take the time to look around and see what colors are out there. You never know, you might just find something you adore.

Experiment with a longline bra

Fancy shaking up your lingerie game? A gorgeous longline bra could be just the answer. Somewhere between a full bodice piece and standard bra, you’ll find this cute little addition to your lingerie drawer. The flattering material flows down beneath the bra cups, which means that you get a fuller, more beautiful look.

What’s more, this style of bra actually adds a little more support than a standard fit, which means that you will feel more comfortable and, let’s face it, more confident than ever before. Why not experiment with a range of these pieces and see what suits you?

Get your first push-up bra

If you’ve yet to explore the world of push-up bras, you’re so not alone. Many women out there fear the unknown and don’t want to try something new. Still, since it’s the holidays soon enough, it may be time to go ahead and try something completely different. There’s no need to shy away from this at all.

Just make sure that you know your correct bra size before you grab a piece. That way, you can be certain that you will get all the support you need when you try your very first one. You might just find that a little push-up number gives you that extra boost – both literally and figuratively – that you’ve been looking for all along.

Related: 5 Reasons Why You Should Only Buy Lingerie You Love

Try a style that’s brand new

Let’s face it — sometimes we get stuck in something of a rut when it comes to our lingerie. It’s only natural. You start out with good intentions, pick things that suit your shape, but before you know it, you’re buying the same thing year in, year out. Loving yourself is all about knowing how and when to change things up and try something new.

Don’t limit yourself here. You may look at certain lingerie pieces and immediately decide that they are just ‘not for you.’ Wait just a minute here, who says that you can’t wear whatever you please? You may never know if something will suit you until you try it. Go ahead. Give it a go.

Invest in some highwaist briefs

Psst… Have you heard the news? Highwaist briefs are seriously in right now, which means that there’s never been a better time to give them a go. Not only are these types of panties beautifully flattering and cute, but they can also make you feel uber confident.

This type of underwear is a real throwback to the pin-up girl era and can give you a sultry, retro silhouette the very moment you slip some on. What’s more, if you plan on wearing a stunning bodycon dress for festive parties, these pieces are ideal. They make sure that you have a smooth line, meaning that no one will be able to see what you’re wearing beneath your gown! Perfect.

Focus on positivity

Of course, it’s all well and good choosing the finest lingerie to flatter your figure, but if you lack confidence, it will make no difference. You need to feel as good on the inside as you do on the outside. Staying body positive during the holidays can often be a feat in itself, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t little things you can do to help.

For one thing, you can make sure that you drink a whole load of water and get the vitamins you need too. Looking after yourself, even during the season of indulgence, is one of the most important gifts you can ever give. Remember that and you’ll go far.  

As the festive season draws ever nearer, it’s well worth trying something new and experimenting with your lingerie game. After all, there’s nothing like looking your very best and feeling even better! Try some of these easy tips for yourself and you’re sure to seriously boost your lingerie game in the best way ever. Enjoy and happy holidays!  

Related: The Best Lingerie For Your Body Type

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Parfait Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Red and Black

While we’d all like to be nothing short of Superwoman, there are times when the best of us feel weak. Empowerment is about building the women around us up and being true to who we are. If you’re in the mood for a little inspiration along the way, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are some absolutely empowering quotes by strong, wonderful women.

“It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.” – Madeleine Albright

You have a voice. We all do. It’s how you choose to use it that really matters, though. Shying away from speaking out is always a mistake. When you have something that has to be said, for whatever reason, go ahead and say it. For far too long, women have kept their thoughts, opinions, and needs to themselves. Opening up and being honest with the people around you is the best way to combat that. I promise that you will feel a whole load better for having put the truth out there than for keeping it inside forever.

“Power’s not given to you. You have to take it.” – Beyoncé Knowles Carter

Whatever you want to do, it’s going to take some hard work, determination, and a whole lot of self-belief. Thinking that your dreams will be handed to you on a plate is naive. It’s never going to happen. But, if you’re willing to make a plan and put it in motion, you’ll likely see a truly positive change in your world. That’s something that’s truly beautiful too. If anyone would know about how to take the power they deserve, it’s sure to be Beyonce.

“I choose to make the rest of my life the best of my life.” – Louise Hay

Contrary to what you may have heard, you’re 100% in control of your life. That means that you get to choose your own adventure; choose your own destiny. If you hope and wish for your life to be a certain way, it may never happen. However, if you work at creating an existence that suits you, it will. This is all about knowing what you want and having the guts to go out there and get it. If that’s not empowering, I don’t know what is.

“It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.” – Maya Angelou

And now, for something a little harder. Forgiveness. It’s easy to tell someone that you forgive them, but it’s a whole lot harder to actually do it. Holding onto grudges is a surefire way to make your life a living hell, though. It’s just not healthy to hold onto things and let them fester inside you. Before you know it, you’ll become a walking, talking ball of resentment and anger. So, before that happens, it’s time to let go of the past. Forgive all the people who have crossed you over the years and, most importantly, forgive yourself.

“Every woman has the right to become herself, and do whatever she needs to do.” – Ani DiFranco

No one else in this world can define you. If you keep that in mind, the ball will always be in your court. Sometimes, we worry too much about what others happen to think of us. If you do that enough, you can fast send yourself around the bend. It’s not worth it. Figure out who you honestly are when no one else is watching and then work at being the very best version of that particular person. That’s all you can do.

“You can’t be that kid standing at the top of the waterslide, overthinking it. You have to go down the chute.” – Tina Fey

It’s perfectly natural to be scared of things. You may worry about changing careers, leaving a toxic relationship, or starting a new project. What if everything somehow goes completely wrong? It could happen. Of course, it could. But fear should never be the thing that stops you trying. When you need change in your life, you will sense it. It will be a feeling that you simply cannot shake, no matter how hard you try.

“All careers go up and down like friendships, like marriages, like anything else, and you can’t bat a thousand all the time.” – Julie Andrews

If life were always plain sailing, we’d surely get bored of it. There’s one thing that all of us need to accept — times will go up and down. There will be moments in your life when you’re scared to move forward. There will be times when it feels as though you’re moving backward. Through all the rocky times, though, keep in mind that things will pass. Nothing lasts forever and you just need to stay strong.

The wise words of these women ought to be enough to bolster you up and take on the world. The point is that we all have so much to give so, with a little self-belief, we can achieve the greatest of things. So long as you remember that, you’re certain to truly go far and empower those around you too. 

Featured image via Stocksnap

Are you and your body deeply in love with one another? Or, worryingly, could you be locked in a toxic relationship? When you fail to give your body the respect it deserves, the latter could be true.

Here are some of the signs that you’re not loving your body the way that you really should.

1.  You wear clothes to hide your shape

Baggy sweaters. Oversized dresses. Woolen layers. These are your go-to wardrobe faves. Why? Well, it’s not only because you want to keep warm this season. It’s because you want to hide your body away under as much material as possible. Take a moment to think about that. Is it healthy to be ashamed of who you are?

When it comes to choosing your staple clothing pieces, you need to do yourself a favor and choose flattering items. That’s not to say that you should cover up the parts of your body you don’t like. Instead, you should use clothes to accentuate the parts that you do like. In the end, your comfort and confidence should come first.

2.  You’re obsessed with size zero

You flick through beauty magazines, staring idly at the ultra-slim models that adorn each page. So, this is society’s standard of beauty, right? Wrong. This is the fashion industry’s standard of beauty and, frankly, it’s seriously skewed at the best of times. Obsessing over being a size zero is never going to make you happy.

If you’re constantly chasing a smaller dress size, that’s an unhealthy sign. It means that you’re not truly happy with your current shape. Instead, focusing on being more positive about your body is the way forward.

3.  You avoid looking in full-length mirrors

Before you leave the house, what’s the last thing you do? Many of us take one last look in a full-length mirror to check that our outfit works. If the idea of that is enough to make you flinch, there’s certainly a problem there. Shying away from your shape and size could mean that you’re somehow ashamed of it. You shouldn’t be.  

Loving yourself is all about accepting who you are and knowing that you are the very best version of yourself that you can be. Try this handy exercise. Stand in some gorgeous lingerie and look in the mirror. Don’t look away. Don’t flinch. Just stand and look at all the beauty you behold. You are wonderful just as you are. This exercise will help you to understand your shape and adore it too.

4.  You’re obsessed with weighing yourself

Your weight is just a number. Say it. Repeat it. Learn it. There is so much more to who you are as a person than what that little dial says. Hence, you absolutely need to make sure that you don’t let it turn into an obsession. Monitoring your weight for health reasons may be fine. However, if you’re on a mission to decrease those numbers ASAP, you could be doing yourself way more harm than good.

5.  You focus on what you ‘hate’ about it

Are you guilty of saying that you ‘hate’ certain parts of your body? If so, it’s time for a real change. The more you tell yourself that there’s something wrong with your shape or size, the more you will be unhappy. That’s a one way ticket to misery right there.

Fixating on the areas that make you cringe will only mean that you feel a sense of shame about your body. Why not flip the tables here? Instead, look at your body and list all the things that you love about it. What is it that makes you truly smile when you look in the mirror? The answer may surprise you. Often enough, it’s not our physical appearance that needs to change, but our mindset.  

6.  You compare yourself to others

The world’s population is made up of a ton of different women. We come in all shapes and sizes. It’s only natural. Hence, comparing yourself to other women is a recipe for disaster. If you see other women as competition, you’re always going to be trying to outdo them in some way. That says more about how you feel about yourself than it does anything else.

Rather than wasting your time wishing that you looked like someone else, take the time to appreciate how you are. No one is going to give you that validation except yourself. Forget how other women look and focus on what matters here — you.

Conclusion

Treating your body with adoration and respect is a true act of self-love. You deserve that. It’s not about fighting yourself or being critical of your shape. It’s not about comparing yourself to others or wishing you were someone you’re not. It’s about accepting your body as it is and understanding that its true beauty is in its individuality. Once you start practicing this art, your relationship with your body will turn from toxic to powerful.

With the holiday season almost here, you may be planning a romantic getaway with your loved one. There’s just one teeny, tiny problem — you’ve got to pack your suitcase… and it’s a small one. Making sure that you have everything you need in one little case can often be tricky. Luckily for you, there are some great hacks you can try.

1.  Plan your outfits first

Before you do anything at all, it’s worth deciding what outfits you’re going to take along with you. Sure, it can be a real pain to make these tricky wardrobe choices ahead of time, but doing so will save you a whole lot of trouble. It means that you can decide what lingerie you would like to take too and make informed decisions in that area. After all, you know better than anyone else which lingerie sets complement which outfits.

There’s a real golden rule to which you ought to stick here. Don’t make the mistake of packing too many things here. Make sure that you have one lingerie set for each outfit you have. That way, you will know what you’re wearing for each and every day of your trip. Honestly, nothing could be easier!

2.  Buy a few mesh lingerie bags

Let’s face it, you invest in delectable underwear for a reason. So, the very last thing that you’d ever want to do is ruin it while en route. Mesh bags can be a real lifesaver in this area. You should buy a few of them before you go away. Not only do they allow you to divide up your lingerie, but they also help you keep things neat and tidy as you pack. It should make the entire packing process much easier than it would otherwise be.

The fact of the matter is that your delicates are just that — delicate. You don’t want them to go tumbling around in your suitcase. Perish the thought! Instead, you want to keep them crisp and clean no matter how far they have to travel. The mesh bags will do just that in an instant. What’s more, they will be the ideal travel extra.

3.  Bring laundry detergent

Accidents happen to the best of us. Imagine your shower gel bottle cracks open in your case and covers all your clothes, including your lingerie. Nightmare. You need to be prepared for every single eventuality and that includes unexpected incidents like this one. So, what should you do in this case? Well, you may want to carry some emergency cleaner just to be on the safe side.

Many launderettes out there offer delicate cleaning agents that you can use. Getting a few sachets of the stuff means that you will be able to hand-wash your items, such as lingerie, at a moment’s notice. Having supplies like these on you may seem a little over the top, but you’re not a clairvoyant and you can never predict the future.  

Related: How To Pack Bras and Save Space In Your Suitcase

Parfait Estelle Padded Bra P5231 in Black

4.  Pop your socks in your bra

Since the dawn of packing hacks, people have told one another that the best way to store socks is in shoes. Um, wrong! Here’s a neat idea. Why not pop them in the cups of your bra instead? When you really think about it, the cups of your bras are the perfect shape to fit something like your socks. Doing so will mean that the bra keeps its shape while being stored away, which means that it is less likely to get knocked around while it’s in transit. Perfect.

There’s a real method to getting this little hack right. Make sure that the bras are all facing the same way so the cups lie in front of one another. You can then roll up a pair of small sneaker socks and stuff them in the bra cups themselves. If you do this well, you should find that you have the perfect shape for the cup. This tip will help you have more space in your suitcase (yes!) and ensures that your bras are safe and secure too.

5.  Always fold, never scrunch

When it comes to your small delicates, such as your panties, there’s one cardinal rule that you should never, ever break. Always fold, never scrunch. These items are far too delicate to scrunch up into balls and tuck into the side of your suitcase. Doing so may cause damage to the material or, at the very least, cause it to wrinkle up and look a little unkempt, to say the least.

Learning how to properly fold these items could make all the difference. After all, it means that they will get the proper treatment they deserve. The method is quite simple. Just fold the two sides of the briefs inward and the bottom of them upward to create a small square. You could also use some tissue paper to separate these items from the rest of your clothes, or the mesh bags which we’ve already discussed.

6.  Only pack the essentials

Finally, let’s be clear on this: You don’t need to take every piece of lingerie you own. Sure, you may want to, but there’s no need to. If you have a limited amount of space in your suitcase, you’re going to have to be a little brutal with what you do take and what you don’t take. It’s that simple. If it helps, you can take all your lingerie sets and lay them out on the bed. Take a look at each of them and decide whether it’s an essential or an extra. That way, before you even know it, you will have narrowed down what you’re taking!

Packing can often seem like a real chore, but it doesn’t have to be that way! When you learn how to keep things simple and easy, nothing could be quicker. With any luck, these lingerie packing hacks will help you make the whole thing as painless as can be. Happy travels!

Related: 5 Quick and Easy Lingerie Packing and Traveling Tips

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Lynn Push-Up Strapless Bra P13112 in Black | Parfait Lynn T-Shirt Bra P13011 in Nude | Parfait Lynn Y-Back Front Closure Bra P13122 in Black

Finding the ideal lingerie isn’t all about those ultra fancy sets for special occasions. It’s about the everyday too. There’s just no good reason that you need scrimp on your daily bras. These are your most trusty companions; with you no matter what happens. So, you need to ensure that they are just right.

Here are some of the things you should consider:

Don’t make assumptions about your size

The first major mistake that most women make when it comes to buying a new bra is thinking that they already know what size they are. Your bra size will change as you do. Over the years, you’re not likely to stay the exact same size all the time.

That means that sticking with your old size no matter what can be a dangerous game to play. Remember that this is an everyday bra — one you’re going to want to wear whatever the occasion happens to be. The very last thing you want or need is a bra that digs into you or doesn’t offer you the support that you need.

Do yourself a favor and go get measured ahead of time. Getting a professional fitting will ensure that you’re 100% sure of the size that you choose. What’s more, it doesn’t take as long as you might imagine and you get to relax and have someone else do all of the shopping for you.

Put the fit and your comfort first

Comfort. Comfort. Comfort. Whether you’re picking up the kids from the sitter or heading to the office for a last-minute meeting, your comfort needs to come first. Let’s not beat around the bush here. We’re all busy people with a lot on our plate. What we really don’t need in the modern-age of constant emails and notifications is yet another thing to cause us hassle. Don’t let your bra be that thing.

When it comes to choosing a bra for everyday situations, yes, you do want it to look fabulously flattering, but you also want it to be comfortable. That means that you need to make sure that you’re getting the support you need and the size is right. You should make sure that the straps and band of the bra sit neatly against your skin with a little breathing room. They should never once dig in or make marks on you. You should be able to fit two fingers between your skin and the band or straps.

Choose the right color for you

Now, let’s get to the interesting stuff — the color. Here’s where you get a chance to unleash your own personal sense of style. For example, t-shirt bras tend to come in neutral colors from black and beige to white, but there are also loads that come in bright colors or with bold prints. If you prefer neutral colors, go for it – these colors work with everything you may own. Honestly, you cannot go wrong with a simple black t-shirt bra… It’s a tried and true wardrobe staple for many women.

Of course, the color you end up choosing is completely up to you. Before making your decision, you may want to think about the rest of your wardrobe. If you tend to wear pale colors and pastels a whole lot, a beige or white bra may be just the ticket. If, on the other hand, you happen to adore wearing dark colors, black, pink, or even a leopard print bra might be the answer. The choice is yours!

Related: How To Tell If A Bra Fits In 4 Easy Steps

Parfait Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 in Red/Black

Make sure the band fits snug

As we’ve already covered, you absolutely need to make sure that the t-shirt bra gives you the support that you need. A major player here is the underwire. If you happen to have a larger chest, you may find that you need this extra level of support.

Without it, you may find that the bra is not only uncomfortable, but also not right for your body. Spending a little extra time searching for a style that suits your bra size may be all it takes to ensure that you are comfortable on a day to day basis.

Of course, it’s not merely the underwire that makes a difference here. The majority of a bra’s support comes from the band. You should ensure that the band fits snug on the loosest hook and doesn’t move when you raise your arms or lean down. You may have to try on a few different styles, but the more you give it a go, the easier finding the right fit will be.

Consider your wardrobe

Choose your lingerie based on your outfits – after all, you want lingerie that you’ll actually wear. Do you find yourself needing seamless contour bras to wear under t-shirts? Maybe it’s time to buy a few full bras in fun colors to balance out the neutrals in your wardrobe. When it comes to shopping for new bras, this is something that you should always keep in mind, no matter what.

Every woman out there needs at least one faithful bra on which she can rely no matter what. That’s why it’s so utterly crucial that you take the time to find the one that will suit you the best. If you consider these five things, you’re certain to have the right idea when it comes to choosing your perfect bra. Easy!

Related: The 7 Golden Rules of Lingerie Shopping

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Marion Unlined Wire Bra P5392 in Tango Red

The nights are getting chillier, the drinks are getting hotter, and that can only mean one thing. Before we know it, the holiday season will be upon us. That means that if you want to get what you want this year, it’s time to start hinting like crazy. Believe it or not, there’s actually a right way to get the message across about what you would love to unwrap on the big day. Of course, you don’t want to be too explicit about it at all. Instead, it’s best to keep things subtle and low-key.

Let’s face it, there’s nothing nicer than unwrapping a large present to find that it’s filled with some gorgeous, new lingerie. It just so happens to be one of the best gifts that you can get during the holidays. At least, we like to think so. So, if you really, really fancy some fabulously new treats this year, here’s what you need to do.

Don’t be too obvious about it

Okay. Real talk. You don’t want to go overboard and be too obvious here. You need your partner to think that he thought of the gift all by themself. That means that you want to lead them in the right direction without telling them what to get you. The last thing that you want is to appear to be demanding. Oh no, you want them to believe that they came up with this idea all themself. That way, it will feel all the more special and you can enjoy it even more. The key here is to drop small, subtle hints now and then and slowly (but surely) lead them to the conclusion that they simply must by you some lingerie!

Use social media to hint

What’s social media for if not hinting to your significant other? There are many ways in which you can use social media to let your partner know what you really want this year. For example, you could comment on pictures of lingerie and say how much you ‘LOVE’ them or that you think they are beautiful. Equally, you could start liking pages, such as the Mod by Parfait page on Facebook, and sharing your favorite things with your partner. You may find that your partner notices your interest in lingerie and takes note of it. After all, you may find that they have a good old stalk of you online when deciding what to get you for the holidays. Genius!

Be specific but not too specific

If you do want to go ahead and let your partner know that you want some lingerie, there’s an easy way to do it. Tell them. Of course, you don’t want to pick out the exact lingerie set that you hope to get. No, you need to make sure that they have a chance to make their mark on your gift as well. That means that you need to be a tad vague and give your partner a chance to choose something that they think is special. For example, you could all-out tell your partner that you just adore the Sweetheart range of Mod products. That way, they will know what style you’re after, without you having told them just what to get.

Related Post: What Are Bralettes And How Do I Wear Them?

Talk about your favorite lingerie

Question time: How often do you actually talk about your love of lingerie? You may have a deep, real love for glorious underwear pieces, but if you never tell your partner, they will never know. Despite what you may have thought up until now, your partner is not a mindreader. Sorry to break it to you! Start talking more and more about why you happen to like lingerie. You may want to go into detail about how wearing a fancy new bra makes you feel and why you value that so very much. These are things that your partner may not know — so go ahead and tell them.

Browse online together

You likely already browse online all by yourself, but why not make this a cute couple activity? Your partner will enjoy getting to know how you choose your bras and what style you like. What’s more, the whole experience can be utterly exciting too, which is a major bonus. Introduce this idea subtly. You need to be clear that you’re just looking ‘for inspiration’ so that your partner doesn’t get all suspicious about your motives. That’s the very last thing that you need right now. Perhaps when the two of you are just relaxing together, you could ask them if they want to take a look with you. Make it something of a game. You never know, it may be a whole load of fun!

Make sure they know your sizes

Think about it. How can your partner possibly get you lingerie if they don’t know your size? It could be tricky. Sure, they might guess and they might even be right, but what are the chances of that? If you want some lingerie this festive season, you need to let your partner know what bra size you are. Go into as much detail as you can — let them know all about your band size, your cup size, and even your sister sizing. It could all be vital information. Now, getting these details across may be a difficult feat; you don’t want it to seem too pushy. So, just tell your partner that you’re letting them know for ‘future reference’. You could even leave a few of your bras out so he can make note of the size. Leave it at that and let them piece the puzzle together.

Related Post: Here’s Why You Should Reorganize Your Lingerie Drawer Often

Letting your partner know that you would quite like some brand new lingerie for the holidays doesn’t have to be hard. If you follow the above tips, you should find that there’s a big box with your name on it under the tree. How exciting! What’s more, you absolutely need to be open to surprises too. Who knows, you may find that your partner picks something unique that’s just ideal for you!

Every single woman out there deserves, nay needs to love herself. And we all have days that are harder than others. If you’ve been neglecting your own well-being and emotions for far too long, it’s time to do something about it once and for all. Here are eight tips that will help you do just that.

1.  Banish negative people from your life

Negative people are a drain on your time and emotions. There. I said it. Someone had to. We all have those friends who make us feel low, rather than lifting us up. Whether it’s a toxic girlfriend who is always pointing out your flaws or a bestie who moans all the time about her life without ever asking about yours, these people are not adding anything to your life. Worse still, they might be taking away from it. If there are people in your life that do you more harm than good, they have to go. Period.

2.  Be grateful for all the things you have

There are times when we get into a spiral of ‘what ifs’ and ‘why nots’. While you may wish that things were perfect in your life, your negativity could mean you’re missing how great they actually are. We should all be grateful for the blessings we have, whether they are big or small. Each day, make time to consciously think about all the things that are going well for you right now. You may have a loving family, great friends, or a supportive partner. Be grateful and count yourself lucky.  

3.  Make time to practice mindfulness

Mindfulness isn’t just the latest psychology buzzword, it’s something that really works. At times, it’s only natural that you may get stressed out or feel overwhelmed with your life. It happens. We’re all busy people, after all. Taking the time to recharge your batteries now and then can only be a positive thing. It means that you get a chance to think about things and enjoy some time out. Needless to say, people practice the art in a variety of different ways. You could, for example, use an app or watch YouTube videos about it to get you started. Go ahead — try it now.  

4.  Silence your inner critic

No offense, but sometimes your inner critic can be a real buzz-kill. There’s nothing worse than that tiny, niggling voice telling you how truly terrible you are all the time. Sure, we all fall into the trap of criticizing ourselves now and then, but that certainly does not make it right. The moment you notice yourself thinking negative thoughts about yourself, you need to quit it. Replace them with a positive spin. So, rather than thinking about how you wish you had another job, start getting excited about a new role that you may take on.

Related: 5 Ways The Right Lingerie Can Boost Your Confidence

5.  Learn how and when to say no

Psst… ‘No’ is not a dirty word. You can say it whenever and wherever you want. While you might think that you need to please the people around you all of the time, that’s simply not the case. For the sake of your own well-being, you need to learn to say no now and then. For example, if you have a friend who is asking for too much of your time or a family member who asks for endless favors, it’s okay to have a cut-off point. Giving yourself permission to put you first isn’t only an act of self-love, it’s essential to your happiness on a daily basis.

6.  Care for your own well-being

Your general health and well-being is your responsibility. If you don’t care for it, no one else out there will. That’s a fact. So, you need to start looking after everything from what you eat and how active you are to how much you time you get each day. Ensuring that you have all you need on a day-to-day basis might sound like a chore, but it’s sure to make you feel a hundred times better and happier. At the end of the day, what could be more positive and self-loving than that?

7.  Don’t take on someone else’s emotions

Emotions are highly contagious things. If you are around someone who is always down and miserable, you will start to feel the same soon enough. It has to stop. You need to protect your own emotional well-being. The moment you find yourself taking on someone’s negative emotions, you need to exit the situation. And, if you can’t do that, you need to stay strong and remind yourself that their feelings are just that — theirs.

8.  Empower the women around you

Finally, you must never make the mistake of thinking that ‘self-love’ has to be all about you. If you want to feel your very best, you must also support and even empower the women who are closest to you. When you’re showing these ladies how very special, strong, and brilliant you think they are, that will reflect back onto you. The next time you’re out with a group of friends or even just one special friend, take a moment to think about how you’re treating them. Could you up your game here? If so, you know what to do.

Related: 7 Ways To Empower Other Women

Self-love. It’s not going to happen overnight. If you’ve found yourself caught up in a bunch of negative traits, getting this small and simple thing right will feel very tricky. Still, persistence is key. So long as you keep moving forward and taking small steps toward your own inner happiness, things will start to get easier. Try some of these tips for yourself and you’re certain to notice a change in no time.

The festive season is just around the corner, which means that it’s time to start dropping some hints here and there. If you fancy some fabulous new lingerie wrapped up under the tree this year, you may want to let your partner or loved ones know. But wait just a moment, how on earth can you do that? Needless to say, you don’t want things to be over the top. Luckily for you, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to hint that all you really want for the holidays is…. Lingerie!

Try the subtle approach first

First of all, you may wish to try the subtle approach — that means no heavy hints, just low-key ones that will get your partner’s attention. It may be best to keep things simple here. When your partner asks what you fancy for the festive season (and they will), give them some mysterious hints about wanting something that makes you feel attractive and confident. You could even say that you want a clothing item, but say that it’s one that only you and he will see. This kind of tantalizing riddle is certain to get him interested in what it is you could possibly want.

Don’t make demands of your partner

The last thing you want to do is here is demand anything of your partner. Remember, people like to feel as though they have some control over what they get people. So, you need to take things slow.

There’s nothing like someone being super demanding to kill the mood and take any surprise out of the equation. When you’re hinting about what you want, you need to make sure that you don’t come off as too demanding. This is supposed to be fun not a tense or awkward situation. Keep that in mind and you should be fine.

Guide them but don’t tell them what to get

Again, you want to make sure that your partner has some choice when it comes to what they get you. That means ensuring that you show them what type of thing you want rather than being uber specific about it. For example, you could hint that you really like the Lydie range on Parfait, but not give any more detail than that.

That way, your partner will have the chance to choose something special for you that they can be certain you will adore. Plus, they will get the thrill of surprising you with something that you haven’t exactly chosen, but will certainly love. Simple!

Related Post: The Guy’s Guide To Buying Lingerie For Your Girlfriend (Send this to your guy!)

Parfait Casey Plunge Molded Bra 2801 | Parfait Casey Boyshort 2805 in Ruby Wine

Browse lingerie sites together

There’s nothing more exciting than browsing a lingerie site with your partner. Make this a casual activity. For example, you could just say that you feel like looking at the Charlotte collection for a little inspiration. Once you start looking at what’s available, you’re certain to see things that you really like. Make sure that you communicate this to your partner in any way that you can.

You could even ask them what they think about certain things and what they think would suit you. This little tip is sure to get your partner thinking about lingerie and what style you like the most. That way, when it comes to them buying presents, some brand new underwear will come to mind right away. What could be better than that?

Talk about needing/wanting new stuff

Of course, one of the easiest ways to tell your partner that you want new stuff is to talk about it. You may wish to say that it’s been forever since you bought new underwear and that you’d love some more soon. Just dropping that message into conversation now and then could be enough to get the point across.

Don’t be afraid to talk about what you love and why you love it. You could find that communicating this to your partner is easier than you thought. The next time you’re getting changed, go ahead and say that you wish you had some nice new underwear or even a fancy new bra. You never know what Santa may bring you this year!

Explain what you adore about lingerie

Have you ever actually told your partner that you like lingerie? If the answer is no, you may wish to spill the beans sooner rather than later. Go ahead and let them know what it is that you adore about wearing some fabulous lingerie and how it makes you feel. Affirming the idea that you really appreciate this kind of thing will make things crystal clear.

Casually mention that you like the way that lingerie makes you feel and that it’s something that you value when it comes to clothing. Just putting that idea in your partner’s head could make all the difference.

Conclusion

As the holidays loom over us, it’s time to really think about how you can get what you want the most this year. Say goodbye to tacky gifts that you repackage and regift guiltily next year. It’s time that you got something that you truly wished for this year. Remember, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with dropping some hints and letting your partner know what you want for the big day. If anything, this will make their shopping easier and take some of the stress away. So, go ahead — try it for yourself.

Featured image lingerie:

Carole Padded Bra 3101 | Carole Hipster 3105 in Lollipop Red

Question time: Do you adore your body as much as you should?

Don’t think too hard about it. Just answer. Body positivity is all about loving your shape and size, no matter what anyone else thinks. If that sounds like a plan to you, here are some of the reasons that will help you along the way.

1.  It’s stronger than you think.

Griping and moaning about your body is only going to bring your down. One of the biggest reasons to love your body is that it’s stronger than you think. Every single time you feel down about it, remember that fact. The more you use your body, the stronger it becomes. That’s an incredible skill right there. It really is a truly beautiful thing.

2.  Your health always needs to come first.

Weight concerns are petty and misguided. What should always come first is your health. So long as you’re taking care of your well-being, you shouldn’t be worried about your shape and size. In fact, you need to celebrate the form you have — it’s a thing of sheer wonder and that’s not something you should ever overlook. Remember, living well is about health not weight loss. It’s that simple.

3.  When you’re kind to it, it’s kind back.

When you treat your body well, it treats you well back. Looking after your body is an ongoing challenge and one that you need to rise to each day. It’s your job to keep your body healthy and happy at every turn. That means eating well, exercising, and relaxing when you need to. All of the above is a recipe for a positive relationship with your body.

4.  Confidence is real beauty.

Forget jealousy or wanting to look like models in magazines. That’s all nonsense and you know it. Real beauty doesn’t come from shedding pounds or plastering yourself with makeup. Oh no, real beauty comes from one thing and one thing alone. Confidence. When you’re proud of who you are and never need to hide it, your attractiveness shines through.

Related: How To Start Loving Yourself When You Don’t Know How

Parfait Casey Unlined Wire Bra 2802 | Parfait Casey Boyshort 2805 in Nude

5.  The ‘perfect’ body is always changing.

If you subscribe to the notion that there’s a ‘perfect’ body, you’re fighting a losing battle. The media’s idea of what makes a woman attractive is always changing. One day, it’s stick thin model-types, the next, it’s curvaceous ladies. It makes no sense. The truth is that we’re all attractive and wonderful in our own way. Focus on loving your body just as it is, not wishing it was something different.

6.  What you think is all that matters.

No one else’s opinion matters, but your own. You shouldn’t bother listening to what other people think when it comes to your body. They have absolutely no say in how you use it or what you do with it. Stop wasting time stressing about what other people say or, indeed, think. Instead, just pay attention to how you feel about your body. In the end, that’s the only thing that’s important.

7.  The less you worry, the happier you’ll be.

Here’s one for all your worriers out there. Cut it out. Stressing yourself out over the way your body looks is never going to make you happy. It’s going to make you just plain miserable. The next time you catch yourself worrying about your body or your shape, stop and truly think about it. The more you allow these negative thought patterns into your world, the worse off you will be. Focus on you. Focus on joy.

Related: 7 Ways To Show Your Body The Love It Deserves

8.  Your body can do amazing things.

Do you appreciate all the incredible things that your body can do for you? Probably not. Most of us just take these things for granted on a daily basis. You can run around, climb mountains, dance like a wild person. Your body allows you to do all these amazing little things whenever you feel like it. If that’s not a reason to truly adore your body, then I don’t know what it. It’s one of the greatest things you have.

9.  If you don’t love yourself, no one will.

We’re all human and we all want to be loved. Fact. Still, if you don’t work on loving yourself and valuing who you really are, how do you expect anyone else to? You can’t. If you already adore yourself, well done, you’re doing a great job. If you’re not quite there yet, that’s okay too. This isn’t something that will happen overnight. It’s a process. Start showing your body the love it deserves today.

10.  It’s the only body you’ll ever have.

You only get one body in this life so you may as well adore it. You deserve to have a positive relationship with your body and, luckily, you’re in control of how that goes down. Taking the time to make sure that you care for your body and start to accept it for the way that it is will help. It may seem like a small thing but it could make all the difference. After all, it’s the first step to true body positivity and empowerment.

Needless to say, there are many, many reasons you should adore your body. These ten should get you started, but we’re certain that you can think of a whole load more. So, go ahead, start caring about your body and loving it each and every day! And, remember, you are truly beautiful and perfect the way that you are!

Featured image lingerie:

Elissa Strapless Contour Bra P5011 | Elissa Brazilian Thong P5014 in Pearl White

In a world dominated by celeb culture and, for lack of a better phrase, media ‘fluff,’ it might be nice to take a little break now and then. While you may not realize it, there’s actually a whole load of body positivity podcasts out there. Here are just eight that you need to hear for yourself.

The BodCast

While the BodCast focusses on a whole range of intriguing subjects, there’s a real emphasis on body positivity. The Bustle-created podcast looks at, in their own words, ‘the experience of living in a body in 2017’.

Needless to say, that’s something to which we can all relate. Topics include everything from self-acceptance to breaking all the rules. It’s basically a modern-day look at how we all feel about our bodies and what needs to change. It’s well worth a listen if you want to hear some like-minded viewpoints and interesting interviews to boot.

Listen here!

Curvy Yoga

If you have any interest in yoga at all, this is the podcast for you. Here’s a short and sweet soundbite, which will make you feel wonderful about your body while learning something new. What could be better than that? The body positivity podcast looks at some basic yoga theories as well as covering issues that affect all of us, like loving the skin we’re in.

Interestingly enough, it also covers a range of tricky subjects too, such as the negative thought pits we can all get stuck in from time to time. These are the issues that many of us don’t care to talk about but perhaps should. What’s more, it has an upbeat, approachable tone, even when dealing with heavy subjects.

Listen here!

Mind Body Musings

In the Mind Body Musings, we focus on maintaining a healthy weight, intuitive eating, and self-acceptance. That means that rather than looking at weight loss and fad diets, the idea is loving your body as it is and making sure that it has everything that it needs on a day to day basis. It really is a very body positive outlook and one that will make you feel totally at one with your shape and size.

Of course, the podcast looks at a range of topics including controversial ones such as fat-phobia and sexism. These are the ones on which we really need to be focussing so it’s refreshing to hear them spoken about in such an open way.

Listen here!

Related: 8 Insulting Things No One Is Allowed To Say To You

Body Talk

This is the space where two very clever ladies, Joni Edelman and Jenni Berrett, discuss the topics we all want to hear about. That is everything that goes into being a woman in the 21st Century and, as the name implies, a whole load about our bodies too. They also tackle the idea of ‘diet culture’ and what that means for women today. Should you have a spare minute, these podcasts are certainly worth your attention. Oh, and they come out every two weeks.

Listen here!

Call Your Girlfriend

Ultimately, Call Your Girlfriend is a very feminist and positive podcast. If you want to hear women discussing topics that affect you on a day to day basis, this is one of the best places to start. The idea is that the podcast should feel like a call with your girlfriend or perhaps your best friend — whatever you may call them!

Apart from focusing on body positivity and our own sexuality, this one also looks at current events and news. That means that you will need to keep up with the latest episodes if you really want to know what’s going on. Tune in and enjoy!

Listen here!

The BodyLove Project

Of course, we all do (and should) love our bodies, so why not listen to a podcast that’s all about just that? The BodyLove Project looks at the ways in which we can appreciate the body we have and tries to break down the barriers associated with it too. Plus, it’s jam-packed with interviews with experts and people who just wanted to share their stories.

Jessi Haggerty, the rather inspiring woman behind the podcast itself, has a passion for the #BoPo Movement and that really comes through. Whether you want to be entertained or learn something new about it, this is a podcast that won’t let you down!

Listen here!

Related: 7 Ways To Show Your Body The Love It Deserves

The Guilty Feminist

As the name would suggest, this is a podcast all about feminism. Although this is technically a ‘comic’ podcast, the issues it tackles are anything but funny. It’s pretty serious stuff. The tongue-in-cheek tone of the podcast will keep you giggling the whole time, while the feminist subjects are sure to enlighten your mind. Genius!

Listen here!

Invisibilia

There’s nothing worse than feeling as though someone has pigeon-holed you. The idea that we all fit into neat little boxes is not only ill-conceived, but it’s actually rather damaging too. Invisibilia is a podcast that seeks to challenge the very notion of the ‘categories’ that we ultimately put ourselves in one a day to day basis.

Of course, conforming to stereotypes and the like can be a real issue, but there are some categories that also benefit us. This particular show looks deep into that theory and explains how these shape who we are. It’s an intriguing matter with strong body positivity undertones. If you like the sound of that, definitely check it out.

Listen here!

If you’re looking for a way to expand your knowledge of body positivity, these podcasts are not a bad place to start. Most of them come out regularly, which means that you will have more than enough listening material. So, go ahead, and subscribe now!