sunday style | lingerie
today we are veering off the beaten path of a daily ootd to discuss what brings your clothes to life. it’s not necessarily a glamorous topic, but if we’re not wearing the right undergarments, even the most spectacular outfit can go awry. it’s somewhat akin to building a house – the foundation is laid first. this is the most important step. which is one reason today is all about diving in and tackling a brief overview of lingerie.
first off, i suggest a twice yearly bra-fit session. all reputable department stores from neiman marcus to j.c. penney have trained bra-fit specialists that will equip you with your proper measurements – it’s a service they offer at no charge to their customers. why twice a year? because bras are one of the hardest working items in your closet. as such they have a shorter lifespan. and, in the space of only six months, your body may have changed. once you know your correct bra size, then it’s a matter of deciding what brand you like. in my opinion, bras are like jeans – we’re always on the hunt for the perfect one. so don’t be afraid to carve out an afternoon in your schedule and try on every brand known to mankind. once you find the perfect match the hard part is over. remember, the band should be snug when hooked on the first row. then over time as the band stretches you can fasten it on the next hook for a tighter fit. what are my favorite brands? simone perele and wacoal are my top two with chantelle coming in third.
there are three types of bras i keep in rotation. and two colors. first, i always have a nude colored bra at my beck and call as it will go underneath even the sheerest blouse with ease. next, i add on a black bra. once these two basic colors are folded neatly in your lingerie drawer, then it’s up to your individual aesthetics as to what additional colors find their way into your line-up.
now onto the three types of bras, i also keep on hand. first up, is the push-up or plunge bra that is perfect underneath special occasion or evening wear. this is the bra that gives a nice lift and adds a bit of cleavage. next on my list is a minimizer. many of you may not need this type, but this is the bra i reach for when i wear my button-up shirts. it keeps me in place and my buttons fastened! last but not least, is the t-shirt bra that gives smooth coverage with its molded cups and fits beautifully underneath my beloved tees and sweaters.
as for panties, i have bikini’s on hand, as well as hipsters, and boyshorts. don’t forget to look for panties that give a ‘no visible panty line’ underneath pencil skirts or pants. and i like to have several sets of matching bras and panties in my lingerie drawer. i always feel like a million bucks when i wear a matching set. my favorite brands are hanky panky and natori.
once you’ve tackled the basics, shapewear is a nice addition to your lingerie drawer and comes in handy. a slim-fit one-piece bodysuit is a dream to wear underneath a curve hugging dress. or try a slim-fit slip, but after that, it’s pretty much up to your individual body type as to what area you would like smoothed and controlled. believe me, if you want something tucked or sucked in there is shapewear made just for you.
a nude camisole is a must- have in my opinion to wear under sheer blouses. i also have a white and black camisole tucked in my drawer. a cami looks great underneath a cashmere cardigan or v-neck sweater.
all right ladies, are you ready to go find your perfect bra? you won’t be sorry. once you have the right foundations in place, you’ll look and feel your best every day!
Thank you Beth. This is a great column and on a topic that we can all use. Undergarments come in so many different types today. Your guidance is appreciated.