can you believe we’re nearing the end of April?  given everything that’s happened over the past few months, it’s still surprising to me that we’re heading into May.  today, we’re gonna try two things at once:  we’re going to talk how to buy lingerie while intermixing a little spring retrospective from the past two months. over the years, i’ve talked lingerie here on the blog, because 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 why we’re about to dive in and tackle a brief overview of lingerie.  so enjoy the last remaining sights of spring, and at the end of the post, i’ve put together my top picks for lingerie.  

bra fitting

under normal circumstances, i suggest a twice-yearly bra-fit session. all reputable department stores have trained bra-fit specialists that will equip you with proper measurements–it’s a service they offer at no charge to their customers. why twice a year? because in the space of six months, our bodies may have changed. weight fluctuates, ladies, and as we age our bodies can morph. take heart, this is when wearing the proper lingerie will help! 

but that’s not really doable right now for obvious reasons. so, if you’re looking for alternative means to find your fit while staying at home, check out Third Love’s online fitting guide.  it’s great and will serve as a safe alternative until trusted retailers like Nordstrom are open again. 

similar jacket | similar sweater | low wedges | similar bag | similar jeans 

choosing a brand

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 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. Simone Perele and Wacoal are my top picks for bras with Chantelle pulling up the rear. recently i discovered Third Love, and i’m quite impressed. their bras are incredibly comfortable with tagless bands and no-slip straps. the Third Love website offers loads of information about fit issues & solutions or lingerie care. yes, we should hand wash our bras or at the very least run them through the delicate cycle securely fastened inside a lingerie bag.

poncho | gingham crop pant | blouse | silk scarf | heel sandals 

how often to buy

i shop for new bras every three months. why? because bras are one of the hardest-working items in your closet. we need lift and support every single day – yes, even A cups. as such bras have a shorter lifespan. at all times i keep three styles of bras in the rotation and two colors. 

c/o gingham pants | top (old, similar here and here)

styles

here are the three styles of bras i have on hand. first is a 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. and many times we need a strapless bra too. Wacoal halo convertible bra gets rave reviews. next on my list is a minimizer. many of you may not need this type, but if you are a C cup or larger this is the bra to reach for if you wear button-up shirts. it keeps you in place and your buttons fastened without tugging! a racerback bra is perfect for summer halter tops. 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.

t-shirt | sweater | shoes | jeans

colors

as for bra colors, i keep a nude or skin tone bra at my beck and call. it goes underneath a sheer blouse with ease. next, i add a black bra. once these basic colors are tucked inside your lingerie drawer, then it’s up to your individual aesthetics as to what additional colors find their way into your line-up.

denim | gingham shirt | pink sweatshirt | shoes (old, similar here and here) utility jacket (old, similar here, here, and here) | belt | similar tote

panties

next, let’s talk about panties, i have bikinis on hand, cheekies, and boyshorts. my favorite brands are Hanky Panky and Natori. don’t forget to look for panties that give a ‘no visible panty line’ underneath snug-fitting pencil skirts or pants. my favorite nvpl brand is Jockey. also, i 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. 

similar blazer| similar pants | similar sweater | shoes | similar bag| similar earrings  

shapewear

once you’ve tackled the basics, shapewear is a nice addition to your lingerie drawer. A slim-fit one-piece bodysuit is a dream to wear underneath a curve-hugging dress. or try a slim-fit slip or camisole. personally, i prefer to wear smoothing shorts underneath dresses. this shapewear is lightweight but gives a smooth silhouette. but when it comes to shapewear, it’s pretty much up to your personal preferences as to what area you would like smoothed and controlled. believe me, if you need an area of your body sucked in there is shapewear made just for you.  a nude camisole with slim straps is a must-have to wear under sheer blouses. but don’t forget to add a nude tank camisole. i also have white and black camisoles tucked in my drawer and lace camisole. don’t forget a cami looks great all by itself underneath a cashmere cardigan or v-neck sweater.

all right ladies, are you ready to 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!

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