When it is a million degrees outside like it has been this summer, all I want to do is wear skirts and maxi dresses. Pants...not so much. But here lies the problem — or the rub — if you will, my inner thighs rub together and it becomes ridiculously painful. Pretty sexy right? This has happened no matter what size I was growing up and I took to wearing bike shorts under skirts at an early age. Pretty bulky and not so flattering, but brought relief.
And then I found Thigh Society. Owner and creator Marnie Consky tried everything to eliminate the "chub rub" before being fed up and creating her own company. She sported bicycle shorts, shaping garments, cut off nylons and leggings, men's boxer briefs, powders, creams, and gels. That's quite the dedicated effort.
I have to admit to trying almost all of those myself!
This year has seen the launch of the company's new microfiber style using Sorbtek technology that actively prevents chafing. Its fabric gusset technology wicks moisture four times faster than competitive fabrics keeping the wearer cool and dry while also being breathable, seamless and soft on the skin. Best of all there are no elastics and the seamless waistband doesn't create a muffin top or dig into your legs. The sizing ranges from a S/M (6-8) through to a 3XL/4XL(22-24) because Marnie discovered that this problem exists for women in a variety of sizes.
I tried out the new style recently and have to say, it lives up to the hype. I've had to wear shapewear in hot weather and there is nothing fun about it — in fact, I rip it off the second I get home. Thankfully this did not happen with the panty short, in fact the fabric was really soft and comfortable. I loved that they did not move — no hiking them up or yanking them down and no digging into my hips and waist either. Another perk — no itchy labels needing to be cut out as the panty shorts are made with tagless labels.
The most important feature for me? The fact that the fabric comes up to my belly button and stays put. I have experimented with similar garments, leggings and shapewear and get the roll-down far too often. It is nice not to be driven crazy.
You can buy Thigh Society panty shorts for $38 per pair in black and beige online or in boutiques across Canada.
Who knew a simple concept added to a handbag could relieve so many problems? Canadian designer Ivy Chen that's who. In 2012 she launched Jolie, a handbag company determined to marry style and function. She has created sturdy, stylish leather handbags with, get this, recessed wheels and telescopic retractable handles — and lots of compartments to stay organized. When not in use, handles simple tuck away into their zippered compartments allowing the purses to resemble everyday carryalls. Chen's inspiration came from always being on the road — and always trying to juggle several bags at once. She has taken the best concepts from her favourite bags and put them into one.
I could have used one of these bags during a recent airport visit in which I had deemed my purse "too small" and my rolly suitcase "too large" and had opted instead for a bag that nearly broke my arm. Not a wise choice. But a rolly purse? Now you're talking. Jolie bags would also be perfect for that important business presentation to which you want to arrive prepared — without looking like you packed for a picnic or vacation. Speaking of vacations, a day of power shopping would be made easier if you knew you could roll your purchases back to your hotel instead of carrying them!
There are currently three styles available, each in two colours:
Isabella in red
Isabella in black
Rosabella in brown
Rosabella in black
Clarabella in gray
Clarabella in blue
The collection is available online and Jolie is currently expanding across North America with independent boutiques and e-tailers.
I was recently invited to Walmart's fall/winter preview of its George line. Lots of cute, affordable bargains will soon be hitting the store shelves! I love that there are lots of options available to look stylish without breaking the bank. In fact, several outfits could be completed under $100 from head to toe.
The George clothing line offers great size selection and the accessories are quite adorable as you'll see below. Lots of fantastic shoe options arriving soon! Here are a few of my favourite looks...
Really looks like leather!
Fur Trimmed Bomber, Cotton Candy Pullover, Damask Print Pant, Cross Body Purse
Perfect pieces for all seasons really...
Glitter Top, Metallic Pleated Skirt
I call these the Dorothy shoes...
Glitter Pump
Metallics are always in fashion. Always.
Metallic Accessories
These are my faves...
Combat Boot
Keep an eye out for these and other fab pieces when you hit up Walmart for back-to-school shopping for the kids. Remember, moms need sassy new clothes for September too!
Printer-friendly version