Black Magazine for iPhone and iPad now available!

We are pleased to announce that as of today you can buy digital copies of Black Magazine for iPhone or iPad from both the Apple Newsstand (if you have an iPhone) or from the Apple iTunes Store. The latest three issues are up there so you can buy individual issues or buy a one year subscription - US $12.99 for 3 issues.

Simply go to either destination and search: "Black Magazine" download the free app and away you go.

Excited!

I've Lost My Funny

I don't know what's happened to me, but I've lost my funny. I've tried getting it back, but this week - it's MIA.

I've lost the wind in my sails, there's nothing floating my boat, no one's blowing my skirt up, I have officially lost my funny.

What's a clown without the funny? A weird person with odd make-up issues.

I'm usually a very happy person. But this week, I'm so low I could do the limbo.

Why have my wheels fallen off my apple cart? 

Tell me a joke. And tell me where my funny has gone. Please?

Image via Pinterest

Stella McCartney Lingerie Spring Summer 2012/13

Last week we were kindly invited into Lily and Louis to see the new range of intimates from Stella McCartney Lingerie Spring Summer 2012/13 collection. This season, rightfully entitled 'Stella', has moved towards a more 'everyday' and wearable feel, incorporating innovative and cutting edge technology to create the thinnest, lightest and one of the most invisible collections in the market.

Well, we were impressed!


'Stella' offers a range of styles and silhouettes from body suits, slips, camisoles, racer-back bras, bras fitted with underwire or the 'Supernatural'; a completely wireless bra. All the styles are made from a luxurious range of fabrics including French Calais Lace, silks, mesh and tulle! To keep true to her "eco-friendly"philosophy of the brand, Stella also uses recycled metal hardware and organic cotton.

A well as being a mum and wanting the more practical and comfortable options, Stella the designer further opens her personal world to her 'Stella' collection designs and has named some of her staple pieces after her girl friends, for example, "Sam Partying" and "Julia Tumbling"..... how cute!

We think these feminine, delicate pieces are made to be worn underneath all of your tough, rock 'n roll attire. Being the daughter of one of the biggest rock stars in history, you know that she has thought about this.

Stella McCartney Lingerie Spring Summer 2012/13 is available in stores now!
See our favorite pieces below! Photos: Yasmine Ganley

ETSY Success: DIY PR

Watch live streaming video from etsy at livestream.com

It feels like long ago, but remember when I spoke at ETSY Success as part of the Vivid Festival?  I promised I would post when my video had gone live on the ETSY site. And well.. I've arrived.

Now you can relish in how truly dorky I am. Truly. Dorky.

I can't watch myself because it is excruciatingly cringe-worthy. But I'll post it so you might be able to glean some PR tips if you need them...

Ok so this is me, with Jo Walker, the Editor of Frankie Magazine. Please keep in mind that just moments before going on stage, I was tempted to get in the lift and disappear for the afternoon.

You can thank ETSY for this video.

Where Am I?

Where oh where has PottyMouth gone?

I've been busy. Reading an incredible and life changing book that was recommended to me by Onya Magazine's Editor-in-chief, Sandi.

I must admit, it's been a very long time between books for me. I don't even remember the last book I read because I start them, and then leave them. If I'm not in, I'm not in.

But this book. I am in. Wholeheartedly. And it's life-changing. But I'll write more about it later because it deserves a post of its own.

What's keeping you busy of late? What are you reading? Spill.

Flirty in 'Fiona': Parfait by Affinitas 'Fiona' camisole review

   If you have read my blog about the Affinitas Intimates A/W12 press event a little while ago, you may have noticed that I took quite a shine to the Affinitas fuller bust range, 'Parfait', which encompasses sizes 30D-40G.

   Although I feel lucky that the larger bust lingerie market is expanding and I can now get a range of beautiful and supportive bras for all occasions in my size, it is not always quite as easy to find a bustier, camisole or babydoll for larger cup sizes. Highstreet stores often sell them in standardised clothing sizes with no cup sizes, so finding a boudoir beauty to fit a 28FF is about as unsuccessful as trying to squeeze my bust into those very same standardised undergarments! 

   As you can imagine, I was thrilled to come across 'Parfait' as the current collection offers some really glamorous and sexy boudoir pieces in addition to flirty everyday bras and comfy basics. One of the designs that particularly caught my eye was Parfait's padded wired 'Fiona' camisole in peacock blue, which Affinitas Intimates kindly sent me to try out...

      As 'Parfait' starts at a 30 back (and I'd heard reports that the 30 backs come up tighter than other brands), I decided to go for a 30F (sister size to my usual 28FF) and a size M (10/12) in the matching boyshorts.

   The Parfait 'Fiona' is a beautiful camisole made from silky stretch satin in a jewel tone blue (also comes in wine purple, black or white), complete with black lace trim along the underwired cups. The peacock blue tone was even more glamorous in the flesh and the satin has a slight shimmer to it when it catches the light. I really love the attention to detail on the 'Fiona' too - it features subtle pleats on the straps, embroidered panelling down the torso of the chemise and stylish contrasting black lace on the cups and a little bow and sequin motif at the centre of the cups.

    Additionally, the 'Fiona' boasts an absolutely knock-out detail at the back - a decorative lace-up corset design with ribbon ties and double layered mesh back panels, giving this camisole added sex appeal.  

   Aside from this camisole's obvious aesthetic appeal, it is also very easy to take on and off. There is no fiddly lacing up to do as the 'Fiona' has a half zipper and clasp closure at the side.

   I was pleased that the 'Fiona' in a 30 back was a good fit - not too snug or too loose. The stretch satin and mesh fabric makes the 'Fiona' very comfortable to wear and the material follows the natural contours of the body without feeling restrictive like some shapewear can. The only downside to the fabric is that it rucks up a little bit when worn, but it does not distract from this garment's beauty. 

  I felt very glamorous in this striking camisole and the peacock blue colour really pops against your skin tone whatever complexion you have. The black contrast lace also gives a hint of old Hollywood elegance to the 'Fiona', which I absolutely loved.

   I also really like that this camisole has moulded underwired cups - it is nice to have a little bit of lift and the 'Fiona' gives a great rounded shape to your cleavage. It is worth mentioning that the straps are only part adjustable and I had to tighten them as much as they would go. Luckily, as the 'Fiona' is not an 'everyday' item, I should still get plenty of wear out of this camisole without the straps becoming too loose too quickly. My only real regret with the 'Fiona' is that I ordered a 30F not 30FF and I feel that the cups ran a bit small (although not very obvious from the above pictures). 


   I am glad that I went for the Medium boyshort knickers (roughly a UK 10-12) as they fit me beautifully. They remind me a little bit in style of the Curvy Kate 'Thrill Me' shorts, but refined with less ruffles. Again, made from stretch satin, the 'Fiona' boyshorts are really comfortable to wear and look great on. The black lace, grosgrain sequin bow at the centre and ruffle trim make these boyshorts exude seductive sophistication and are sure to make you feel a million dollars.


   It's worth adding that these boyshorts give quite full coverage to your derrière but are still very flirty thanks to the mesh panel at the back - a great example of how less (fabric) is not always more (sexy)! Additionally, I love that they come with detachable suspenders - they look fabulous with black stockings to mirror the black lace contrast on the 'Fiona' camisole and knickers!

   I am really excited to have found 'Parfait' by Affinitas and the 'Fiona' is a truly glamorous 'boudoir' set. I also have my eye on some of the babydolls from the upcoming A/W collection which are absolutely gorgeous!

'Parfait' is certainly 'one to watch' and I will definitely be exploring more of this exciting brand in future... 

Find out more about stockists of 'Parfait' by Affinitas here.

Love,

Kitty xo

The Queen:: The Olympics

How great is Queen Elizabeth II? How great was her entrance to the Olympics? How great was the whole Opening Ceremony? Brilliant. So superbly executed, I was giggling, jaw gaping, loving it the whole time. It held me captive. I loved it so much.

Danny Boyle, you are a clever, clever man. And clearly the Queen has a brilliant sense of humour.

Of course my fabourite part was Bond and the Queen. What a riot.

Are you watching the Olympics like I am? I am determined to watch as much as possible.

How pretty was that pale peach confection? I don't think she ever puts a stylish foot out of place. And I loved the black gloves, clutch and heels - she is one cool grandmother.

Here's more on how they kept the Queen's cameo a secret since April!

It's Friday Night. Do You Know Where Your Bloggers Are?

Have you had a good day or a bad day?

I have had a no good, very bad, awful, terrible, horrible day.

So let's fast forward onto better, brighter things.

I'm sending you off around the world in just a few simple clicks.

First stop - off to see my sister, Sarah, who just came back from a positively dreamy trip to Paris and London. She's just started capturing those first few days over on Calico + Ivy's blog - be inspired.

Next stop, you're keen to check out Germany while you're over in Europe, ja? Then check in on beautiful Bianca and her babes in a German summer. No wonder she's heading to Sydney soon.

Everyone knows that Tasmania is my idea of Utopia. Despite never having visited. No matter, I'm living vicariously through Michelle of Hugo and Elsa fame. Literally feast your eyes over here.

So you find yourself in Tassie - you must, absolutely must pop into The Hut Chronicles. Marian's garden is evolving, it's a joy to behold.

And one more stop on this whirl wind tour - have a cup of tea with Mrs Smith. This post resonates with me like there's no tomorrow. Thank you Mrs Smith for writing it so beautifully and so bang on.   You are an inspiration lady.

What's that dear reader? You want MORE? MORE??? Ok. Have this song. If you can listen to this and not be in a good mood and want to crazy dance with the kiddies, then I honestly do not know what's wrong with you.

Good night and good luck.

Mareunrol's; The Latvian Rebel

The Black Magazine inboxes are usually filled each morning by submissions and look books from photographers, stylists and label's from all over the world. We do our best to at least look at each email out of courtesy. Occasionally something catches our eye, like Mareunrols. Launched in Riga, Latvia in 2005 by Marite Matina and Rolands Peterkops the brand has since gone on to win a number of fashion awards, was voted Kris Van Assche's favourite newcomer in 2009 and this year showed at  Paris Fashion Week alongside many of the world's great houses. Their latest collection 'Epizode 2' reflects their upbringing in the late 1980's when Latvia was part of the Soviet regime. Creative people were not really 'allowed' in the Soviet system and were seen as the "rebel's and gangsters of their time" giving rise to Epizode 2's use of a blind embossing technique used by the state to create clothes at the time and the deconstructed use of elements of 80's Latvian clothing. Poignantly, the hoods in the wind represent the 'resistance against a dominant force' and the twisted-looking 'splash' head pieces were derived from an old Latvian New Year's custom called the pouring of fortune. Thanks to the folks at Mareunrols for sending these through and adding a 'splash' of their culture to our Friday morning.

A winner has been chosen: Jonathan Aston 2012 Blogger 'Style Off' Competition!

The results are in! It is with great excitement that I announce the results of the Jonathan Aston blogger style off competition to create an outfit around a pair of their Union Jack tights. Thanks to all of you Undercover Lingerista followers, my outfit received the most Facebook 'likes' and I was crowned the winner!!

Firstly, I would like to say a HUGE thank you to everyone that voted for me - your support means so much to me! As you know, I predominantly blog about lingerie and swimwear, but I am also a big fashion fan. This competition has inspired me to start posting more style blogs in future to give food for thought on how to dress curves. (Keep your eyes peeled..!)

Secondly, I mentioned in my previous post that if I won, I would give the hamper of Jonathan Aston goodies to someone who 'liked' my competition photo! As promised, a winner was selected completely at random from all of the people that 'liked' my photo using the site, 'Text Mechanic'  (which picks a line at random - the winner).

CONGRATULATIONS TO...LIZ DIVALL! 

Your prize will be winging its way to you shortly! 

Love,

Kitty xo

BLK #17: On set with Sean O'Pry by MIchael Schwartz

Michael Schwartz shot our second cover in New York yesterday with make mega model Sean O'Pry. Here is a behind-the-scenes shot from the day of Sean and his co-stars...

The Caker new Short Film, The True Love for Cakes

The Caker, aka Jordan Rondel, has just released her short film about the true love for cakes. A modern love triangle of guy wants girl, girl wants girl, surrounds the ultimate sugar fiend- who just wants cake! It's a mouth-watering, bite-sized piece of visual goodness. Featuring Jordan Rondel. Directed by Calypso Paoli. Hair by Sky Cripps-Jackson at Stephen Marr. Clothing by Stolen Girlfriends Club. Jewellery by Zoe & Morgan. Produced by Laura Barton. Behind the scenes images taken by Yasmine Ganley. Watch the new short film below!

The Caker now works out of 8:30am cafe on K.Rd. Make sure you stop in and try her daily bakings!

The Caker a short film from jordan rondel on Vimeo.

Anti Advertorials? Against Infomercials?

If you loathe advertorials and infomercials as much as I do check out my post on Just B today.

I'm turning ad into RAD!

BLK #17: Behind the Scenes with Ashleigh Good

After a great weekend of shooting with the boys for our new issue BLK #17,  the Black team were lucky enough to be given the New Zealand exclusive on the exciting new face, Ashleigh Good, yesterday at White Studios with Charles Howells, just before she is flown off to NYC again!

Promising to not give away too much of the magic witnessed, we managed to sneak a few behind the scenes pictures for you to see. Photography; Charles Howells, Fashion Director; Rachael Churchward, Hair; Greg Murell, Make-up; Michelle Hurliman, Model; Ashleigh Good at RPD/KHM, Photo Assist: Ti, Fashion Assists; Hana Tutton and Rosie Ko. 

This issue is shaping up to be something else. It stares 'tough' in the eye, it has wit and attitude but always allows for pockets of the ethereal. One more month to go!!

Greg making the final touches...

Beautiful jewellery by Zora bell Boyd

Charles and Ti, what a team!

Rachael Churchward working her magic

Behind the Scenes photographs taken by Yasmine Ganley.

Hello Loren!

In the true ANZAC spirit, ex-pat Kiwi Carla Robinson has teamed with Australian Stacey Lamble to create Loren, a 30-piece collection launching into the Australasian market this Spring. The pair will launch the brand under the burgeoning Nick Mascitelli Imports empire, home to numerous brands including Carrie Cooper's Beau Coops. Lamble's background; 6 years as a freelance stylist in Milan, and working in sales at Stella McCartney and most recently at Marc Jacobs is supplemented by Robinson's extensive history working in fashion here in NZ, and in Australia. The collection is described as "French chic styling with a feeling of sport luxe" and provides a number of wardrobe essentials: the silk trench, a boyfriend blazer, pencil skirts, silk shirts, floaty maxi dress and chiffon tops.  Here is the first image of the collection featuring NZ model Hannah...

EBAY FINDS (you will die for)

I'm always down for a bargain. While on my nightly blog/clothing site/etsy/e-bay stalk I came across some AMAWZ-ING items (some of which I ordered immediately!) If this isn't motivation enough to get a Paypal account, i don't know what is. 
The best part, every item is under $50 and as low as $2.75!! All items are "buy it now" items, which means no bidding required. Just click and purchase! 


1. Boots
2. Camo Jacket
3. Scalloped tank
4. Leather Baseball Cap
5. Peplum Blazer
6. Spiked Nuckle Rings
7. (My Favorite)Claw Bracelet


ENJOY!

Pregnant Pirelli Pause: Steve McCurry

We all know Pirelli is known less for their tyres and more for their calendars. Well they are in my circles anyway.

Here they are getting raunchy again. This time on pregnant model Adriana Lima - the first model to be shot forwho is visibly pregnant.

Not that they've just snuck up on Lima. It's not like she was just hanging about by that wall, having massaged a healthy slathering of baby oil over her belly.

And yet... There's something that doesn't sit well with me. And I'm not a prude. I love pregnant women. I think they are blossoming, beautiful, so feminine and so sexy. It is one of my favourite times of my life, being pregnant. I felt so much like a woman. The curve of that belly. Swoooooon! But this photo.. I just can't put my finger on it.

Photographer Steve McCurry (famous for *that* National Geographic cover featuring the Afghan girl with the piercing green eyes) went for a less bare look this year - but with more bump? He's been quoted as saying this calendar will be a calendar of the soul. And pregnant bellies.

Maybe when I see the calendar in its entirety I'll feel different, but for now, I'm not convinced.

You? You dear reader? What do you think?

PS - Fashion Friday is currently on hold. At least until I get out of my jammies.

Read more about Pirelli's new calendar here at NY Mag.

Stuff Happens

Remember the other week when I wrote about what was happening for our little family? About the childcare woes, the distinct lack of village, and the big changes?

A few people commented on here and over on Facebook, imploring me to ask some mums. After all, what was the worst thing that could happen? They could say no.

I sat on it for a few days feeling really, absolutely awkward.

Then I bit the bullet and contacted a few mums that I vaguely knew from dropping the kids off to their houses. I asked them if they could look after our smalls one afternoon a week, for the next two terms. I told them they had no obligation.

And then I waited for them to respond. The three all responded saying they'd love to help, but of the three, one logistically couldn't do it. But the other two said YES! And one asked if we could look after their daughter before school. Of course we said YES!

Things have worked out well. Well, so far so good. We won't know until we're in the thick of it. But for now, I feel so much happier with this place we are at.

Thank you for empowering me to ask. Thank you. Thank you.

images - because I love them - by Spanish artist Lola Guerrera via Design for Mankind