The Perfect Bra?

There is no perfect bra, because no two women are alike. Just like the shoes in your closet, your lingerie drawer should reflect your lifestyle, needs and shape. You wouldn’t wear running shoes to a wedding or stilettos to go jogging. The same applies to bras. You wear a sports bra when you need better support and an elegant bra for a night on the town. Whether, dainty, daring, supportive or sporty, you need the right style to suit your shape and size. Yes, size counts too! Women with bigger breasts need more support, either from underwire or elastic reinforcements. Small-breasted women also need support, but definition is even more important to highlight their contours. When you want to go for glamour, push-up, demi-cup, strapless and convertible (backless, crisscross, halter) bras are perfect. When you feel sporty or casual, go for a sports, soft cup, seamless or contour bra. Plunging bras, with lots of lace, sheer fabric and bows are perfect for the bedroom or the boardroom. After all, you’re the only one who knows what’s underneath your clothes!

Bra Basics
One thing’s for sure, though. Regardless of the type of bra you wear, having the right fit and proper adjustment will make all the difference in the world. What really count are band size (as in 32, 34, 36 or 38) and cup size (A, B, C, D). The two measurements are interrelated, because cup size increases with larger band sizes. For example, a 32B will always be a 32, but the B cup size will increase as the band size increases, so the cup size of a 36B bra would be larger.

How do you know what’s right for you?
If your band size is too small, your bra will feel tight and flesh will overflow on the sides. If your band size is too large, your bra will ride up your back and provide no support at all. You know that your cup size is too small when your breasts spill over the top and sides of your bra or if the underwire pokes into breast tissue. Straps should be tight enough to hold your bra in place, but not so tight that they cut into your skin. The rule of thumb-so to speak-is that you should be able to fit two fingers snugly under the top of the strap. Of course, you don’t want the straps to be so loose that they fall down. The band should be snug and fit evenly around the rib cage. Good posture is an excellent figure enhancer…and it’s free! Remember to hold your shoulders back and stand tall. Go ahead…say goodbye to droopiness, overflowing cups and straps that are too tight. Say hello to the new and confident you!

Guaranteed instant makeover
If you’re still not sure after trying on a number of bras, have a professional fitter help you. The right fit will make you look slimmer, younger and sexier. The perfect bra for you is one that makes you feel and look fabulous!

Caring for your lingerie

Have you ever wondered how to best wash your lingerie to make it last longer? You often hear that it’s better to wash delicates by hand, but is that really true?

Quality and care go hand in hand
What’s the secret to a woman’s comfort and style? Quality lingerie. Touch the fabric to ensure it’s of high quality. It should be solid, yet soft enough to avoid causing irritation. The bra should be firm and the stitching straight. When you try it on, it should feel totally comfortable and fit you like a glove, so to speak.

Wash and wear…every time
Taking care of your lingerie is key to preserving its quality, elasticity and lifespan. Wash it after every wear. Separate whites from other colours and turn them inside out. Delicates should always be washed by hand. Wash them in cold water with a mild soap and no bleach. If you choose to machine wash instead, fasten hooks, so they won’t get caught or jammed in the machine. Place your undergarments in a lingerie wash bag and use the gentle cycle. Avoid using the dryer as it can damage fabrics. Air dry your undergarments on a drying rack or clothes hanger.

If you take good care of your lingerie, it will stay fresh, comfortable and appealing. It will last longer too.

And what about you? Do you have any lingerie care secrets you would like to share? We would love to hear from you!