Thursday, August 3, 2017

Saving money, lingerie, quinoa salad and my poor sister.

I love lingerie and seem to be drawn to the boutiques that sell French lines like Chantelle and La Perla, but my goodness, I find them to be quite expensive.

Saving money,
while still buying decent fitting and pretty undergarments
has been a bit of a tedious job.

Fortunately I found some great basics at Sears and Marshall's
and they were purchased at budget friendly prices.


My all time favourite rose
Jude the Obscure is in full bloom out front in the garden.

I would love a soft peach blush bra and pantie set.


This Bali bra was found at Marshall's for just under $20.
It is a serious workhorse in the undergarment world!
Thank goodness for the architects of bras!


The "granny panties" are by Jessica from Sears.
The lace is pretty and the stitched panels help keep the wobbly bits in check!
I purchased 6 of these and I usually hand wash and hang to dry all my lingerie as it lasts much longer that way.
These were very reasonably priced...I cannot remember exactly what I paid for them but I think all 6 were about $35.

I feel very feminine when I am wearing nice lingerie.

Do you read Jennifer's blog "A Well Styled Life?"
She recently wrote a post about granny panties.
You can read it here.

The Eres panties she used in her post cost a LOT of money!
Can you guess how much they cost?

$255 a pair!
Would you pay that for a pair of granny panties?

I suppose if money grew on trees I might but alas it does not and I am very mindful of expenditures since retiring.

My poor sister was thrown off her horse when they rode through a wasp nest on The Galloping Goose trail near Metchosin.
She sustained complex fractures in her arm that requited plates and pins and she is now recovering at home.


I made a tasty quinoa bean salad from the Whitewater Cookbook for her...
and I'll bring a rose bouquet, chocolates and magazines.


We plan to go out for lunch and I will be the driver as she has her arm in a cast and will be wearing that cast for about 8 weeks.
She is already going squirrelly at home...
it must be so frustrating
I totally empathize.

I'll do my best to cheer her up.


My morning espresso was wearing a Happy Face today!

Hope that you have a great weekend.

Thank you for popping by The Humble Bungalow Blog.
XO

51 comments:

Sheila said...

I just did my annual "my underwear can't have a birthday" shop - zoiks, that was expensive! I did the Bay but my favourite brand never goes on sale. Thank goodness for the clearance rack!

Your poor sister - I'd be going stir-crazy too. That peach rose is incredible - wow!

MOPL said...

You are such a wonderful sister. Lingerie is lovely by the way. Have a great weekend and enjoy the time with your sister.

Deborah said...

Hello! The underwear comments are funny! My mother insisted on full, white cotton briefs and was not at all impressed when I went away to school and wanted nylon, patterned bikini undies as worn by the sophisticated city girls. Within a few years I got to choose my own underwear and had great fun until motherhood dictated something more comfortable and not inclined to go where they shouldn't, so for the past thirty years I've worn fullsized, cotton granny briefs.

Margie from Toronto said...

Your poor sister! I know that she will appreciate all your help - and I can understand her feelings about going stir crazy. When I had my shoulder surgery I ended up confined to the house for nearly 8 weeks - it wasn't fun.
I cannot imagine paying $255 for a pair of panties! I tend to stick to Jockey's cotton briefs - true "Granny Pants" but very comfortable and while I wash them in the machine I always hang them up to dry - helps them to last longer. I'll start watching Te Bay's site soon as they usually go on sale in September.
I generally end up paying $150 to $200 for a bra as I am quite well endowed and need a proper fitting. I go to "Secrets From My Sister" here in Toronto and find them very professional and very helpful. While it's a big outlay initially I find that bras now last me at least 3 times as long as previously - and the comfort factor of a proper fit makes them worth every dime - in fact - I'm going to start watching for any sales they have coming up as I need a couple of new bras right now.
That salad looks very good - I'll have to try it.
I hope that the smoke from all the forest fires isn't affecting you too much. Have a good weekend.

Anonymous said...

Your poor sister!
Not exactly what you expect on the Goose.
Thanks for the tip on Marshalls....I do shop at Sears but have always failed to wander into Marshalls.
barb

Madame Là-bas said...

Those are great lingerie finds! I used to buy more expensive brands when I worked. I really love matching bras and panties and I need support "up top" so I will try Marshall's as we no longer have Sears. Your sister's accident sounds serious. I'm just back from a trip to Ladysmith and Chemainus so I will probably be catching up this weekend..laundry etc. Our larder is empty so I will be making some quinoa this weekend. They charge $8.99 for quinoa salad on B.C. ferries!!! I had some yesterday and I was still hungry. Happy B.C. Day!

Jennifer said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your sister!! That's frightening. I hope she recovers well. This panties I showed were quite beautiful but way out of my price range too! Some women are paying those prices so lucky them.

La Contessa said...

I SAW THAT POST ON JENNIFERS SITE BUT REALLY $255.00 for a pair of underwear........somehow I missed that!NO, I would not spend the BUCKEROO's on them!YOU ARE A DEAR AND GOOD SISTER!

Kristien62 said...

That must have been an incredibly painful injury for her. I wish her well in her recovery. I don't think I could ever pay $225 for panties. Luckily, I have found that Soma brand panties fit well and are quite pretty. They go on sale on occasion for something like 5 pair for $35 and I snatch them up when that happens.

Bras are another thing. I have been known to spend a few quid on pretty bras, but comfort has become an overriding issue. The stays often hurt me and I no longer tolerate that well. But I do have a very pretty and comfortable Bali. Your granny panties actually look quite chic.

Linda said...

Interesting "knickers" post! Our makes are different in the UK. I always buy my knickers in M&S. Since giving up work I've lost about 10lbs so am in need of new ones. I had meant to stock up when in France recently but didn't have time. For bras I have the opposite issue to you but always get a fitting at John Lewis.

Lorrie said...

We don't often talk about underwear, but it's so important! I buy mine at the Bay, when on sale. I've been ordering bras from England (!) and from a shop in Vancouver that closed last year. It's difficult to find large cup sizes with small bands. But there's a new store in Mayfair that I peeked into that now offers my sizes. I'm planning to go back when I have more time.
Your poor sister. I hope she didn't get stung by wasps as well as thrown off her horse. I'm glad you'll be able to spend time with her and be a help.

Jo-Anne said...

You ARE a good sister. Makes me rethink my sister-relationship...sadly lacking I'm afraid. She does live in Vancouver but that's not much of an excuse. Thanks for your lovely post. Beautiful undies :)

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Ah so we are in sync with our lingerie shopping! What is your favourite brand Sheila?

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

In my experience sisters are good at helping each other...I never did have a brother so I missed out on that family dynamic.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Oh and lets not forget those thongs! I had quite a few but those days are long gone!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I used to pay almost $200 for an Italian line of bra...I think it was la bella donna or something like that...my favourite lingerie shop closed when the owner retired. There is a new shop at Matticks Farm which carries lovely things and I perused their sales rack but there was noting left in my size. She carries Chantelle and the bras started at $245 and went up from there...a little too expensive for my current budget.
Enjoy your weekend!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Marshall's do not have a lot of lingerie but it's a good idea to keep them in mind...I found my last two bras there, one a Bali and the other Olga.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I need serious support up top too...matching bras and panties are very French. I try to keep that in mind but I don't always adhere to that plan! Sounds like you have a busy weekend ahead...take care and enjoy the sunshine!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Those panties are very pretty...but as you point out a bit too much money!
BTW your linen separates look great...perfect for the hot weather you are having in California...and here too!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I would prefer to spend the money on something like a cashmere sweater or a new pair of Chelsea boots which are both on my list to buy for Fall.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I find the Bali bras to be very comfortable...they do "work" hard...the stays in the Bali bras are soft and flexible...I think the underwires are padded a bit to minimize discomfort...no point being uncomfortable ever!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

The lingerie departments in Bon Marche and Galleries Lafayette were so amazing! I loved the colours and ever line has options that mix and match! Such a wonderful selection. If you have an opportunity to shop in France for lingerie you are very fortunate...perhaps next time you visit?

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Thats why they refer to underwear as unmentionables I suppose!
Ooh la la...bras from the UK! I must go to Mayfair and look for that shop...thank you for the tip. Matticks Farm has a lovely shop as well.

MaryB said...

Not well endowed by any stretch of the definitions, although, now that I am a woman of a certain age, I have gone up a cup size!! When working, I shopped for Chantelle bras at Diane's on South Granville. Recently, I discovered Bali and am pleased with the fit.
As
A survivor of a broken elbow and subsequent surgery with a metal plates and screws holding everything together, I can empathize with the trying recovery period, particularly, for an active person. Accepting help was also huge for me!!! Sending positive thoughts your way.

Poppy Q said...

Oh my goodness that $255 would be my whole underwear budget for the year. We are lucky and have lots of sales where you can get a decent bra for $20-30. When I find a style that fits really well I will then stock up and buy a few.

Your poor sister- hope she gets some rest and her injuries heal quickly.

Jeannine said...

Sending good thoughts to your sister and to you, in being her helper/caregiver. As for the underwear, possibly I'm practical to a fault (and I know I'm very frugal). It's cotton for me and preferably white. Cheap, cheap, cheap :-)

Sandra Sallin said...

It's in the air. Brenda Kinsel wrote a blog post about underwear also. Looking on line I found some great prices on Chanterelle bras. Would you believe Amazon? I was not aware of Soma but they do have some interesting prints. I found some fun pretty ones on line and good prices. PS and who knew my husband 86 really likes the new fun colors and patterns. So sorry about your sister. I understand about plates and pins in one's arms. I'm sure she appreciates all your care.

Anonymous said...

Good fitting bras have always been a problem for me as I’m a bit of a Dolly Parton! Tiny waist and frame but as for the rest….. I usually have a fitting and come home with some nice lacy stuff but then I find that I revert to my ‘sweater bras’ as they are smooth and don’t show under T-shirts plus I find the lace itchy. I also need broad straps for comfort. I do love pretty knickers and endeavour to match with the bra, but once again I find that the seamless plain variety actually fit and sit better under skirts and pants.I envy those who can pop into a Target store and find reasonable underwear they fits. I usually have to have my size ordered in as well. The quest continues… Tonkath

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

My sister is 5 years younger and she is an inspiration in so many ways...an active equestrian who keeps herself in great shape...and she eats healthy and we have a lot of laughs and fun when we get together.
Perhaps you can extend the olive branch and reconnect? It would be sad to have regrets...just a thought.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I have been to Diane's on S Granville with my friend Cheryl where she has purchased some lovely things... I tend to cross the street and go right to Eileen Fisher!
I saw my sister's LONG line of stitches today and was absolutely gobsmacked!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I have to agree...when one finds a line of bra that works why deviate? If it costs a lot or is a bargain...one does like to be comfortable and look decent. To each their own.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I am only popping in to visit her...perhaps once a week...her partner will pick up the slack and her friends are helping muck out the stalls in the barn.
There is nothing wrong with being frugal....I cut costs in certain areas so that I can spend BIG in others!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

My sister is doing well...she is tired but coping and her horses are being tended to by her friends. I was really shocked at how long the stitches and incision are and I mentioned that Avene make a great scar balm cicalfate....so we will get a tube and hope for the best.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

My waist is not tiny but my balcony is ample...the Bali bras do have their work cut out for them! Thank goodness for well fitting bras!
I am finding that the full coverage of granny panties are invisible and that is a "good thing."

Patricia said...

Love your new underwear which is very much to my taste too. The prices are so much lower than in Australia for similar things. I have written down Marshalls and Sears for when we go to Canada later in the year, as I need new lingerie and maybe that is the place to buy it. Your granny panties are really lovely. What an awful accident for your sister, and you are so kind to visit with thoughtful gifts. I know she will appreciate this very much.

MabonMoon said...

Hello Hostess: I have that Whitewater cookbook. My sister-in-law is originally from Nelson and she introduced me to it nearly 10 years ago. I haven't tried that recipe; I should as it looks tasty. Wishing your sister a speedy recovery, sending healing thoughts. What a nasty accident. You are a good sister! Cheers, Violet.

Marilyn said...

I don't mind paying for a well fitting bra and prefer Chantelle or MarieJo. Not cheap but treated well last much longer than cheaper brands. I then buy knickers in the nearest colour match I can find in MnS. The lace is often so similar that they look matching.I use a special detergent to handwash bras. They never see the inside of the washing machine.
Best wishes to your sister.

La Vie Quotidienne said...

Very pretty bra. I am very partial to black lingerie and that is what color I usually wear but I also like nude - for some reason, never white. I too have found some nice bras at Marshall's. Fortunately, for my budget I like Vanity Fair string bikinis.

So sorry for your sister, I hope she mends quickly and isn't in too much discomfort.

KSL said...

So sorry about your sister. I used to ride a lot, but have gotten way more cautious as I've gotten older, about all sports. I had a mountain biking accident in my 40's and broke my shoulder (with kids still home and it was summer) and I think that did it. I wonder if this accident will change how she feels about riding/risk taking? I make a very similar quinoa dish often, my grandchildren love it.

Roxann said...

Jude the Obscure is lovely indeed. And your quinoa recipe will find its way to our table this week. As for underwear, I can think of a whole lot of things I'd do with $250-plus (book-buying binge or a pair of comfortable and beautiful shoes perhaps), but one pair of underwear? Nope! I am sure they are absolutely lovely and we all have our different splurge points, though. I really like a granny-type panty (called I think retro V-kini) made by Hanky Panky. I consider them a splurge at $35 or so but they last a long time, are lacy and wash and dry really quickly when traveling. And otherwise Jockey does just fine. I admire the buys you found, too.

Margie from Toronto said...

My latest ones are Empriente - French made - hence the cost! I'm really hoping for some sort of sale as their latest catalogue shows most styles are now well ABOVE $200! Yikes!

Deborah Montgomery said...

What a nice sister you are! Sounds like some lovely get-well gifts for her. I am in desperate need of new under things. I don't mind spending a little more for a good supportive bra, but nothing in the neighborhood of La Perla. And I can't stand uncomfortable panties that ride up, so I guess it's granny panties for me! xo

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I am not sure where the Sear stores are in the lower mainland but they also sell online...there are many lovely lingerie shops in Vancouver. Winners is another store that carries discounted merchandise and I have seen some pretty undergarments there too.
I hope you have luck when you are in Canada.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I have 3 of the 4 Whitewater Cooks cookbooks...the recipes that I have made are all tasty.
My sister got her cast off and she has exercises to do now...her incision is much longer than I could ever have imagined...I do feel badly for her as it will be a long recovery.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I am not familiar with MarieJo lingerie...Chantelle make lovely lingerie...i have a chocolate brown and pink set that I love. We used to have a M&S here but it has been gone for ages and I miss it for their basic lines which were well made and reasonably priced. I like using my Aveda shampoo to wash my undergarments!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I like black too and have several black bras in decent shape...I prefer nude as they "disappear" under most tops as I find that white bras show more.
We used to have Vanity Fair lingeries here at our Canadian store Eatons...I have not seen any of their things in a long time...perhaps I am not looking at the right stores?

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

My sister has broken bones and had teeth knocked out riding over the years...I doubt that this will deter her from riding as it is her passion. She also teaches riding to others and knows how to handle horses in most situations...a swarm of wasps stinging a horse in the face is probably one of the worst things to happen..I am grateful that she did not break her back or neck.
Your shoulder injury must have been a difficult one to cope with especially with a busy family around at the time.
It seems the older we get the more we are vulnerable to breaking bones...and our recovery time seems longer.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Hope that you enjoy the quinoa recipe...Hanky Panky are very popular here and they do last a long time and they come in such fun shades too!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Have fun shopping for your new lingerie! I quite like getting rid of the old pieces and setting up all the new ones in the drawer...and I usually pop in a sachet with fresh lavender to add a soft scent at the same time. When I open the drawer it feels luxurious!

dottoressa said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your sister
My favourite lingerie brands are Palmers,Triumph and Skinny-I love sets in lovely colours and absolutely prefer cotton (or silk-we've had a Slovenian brand with amazing silk underwear,even not sooo expensive,but they don't do silk anymore) knickers,so hard to find in matching colours,if not nude,white and black
Your Bali bra is beautiful-I'm not familiar with your brands except ,of coarse,Chantelle
And I agree,your granny knickers look pretty and are actually fashionable again,as well as bikinis with retro,high rise bottoms
Dottoressa

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I have worn Triumph too...it is readily available here. Palmers and Skinny-l are new names to me...silk is the most elegant of the fabrics that one could choose to own and wear...a slip would be my first choice!
In Paris they had a huge assortment of matching pieces in the bright and cheerful shades...several types of bras and various style of panties to match...something for every size, shape and style.