All About Curvaceous Lingerie:

Parfait Team: What inspired you to start a business? 

Lauren: Retail is in my blood! My father was a successful retailer, so I grew up seeing everything he did. My first job was as a bridal consultant when I was 16, and it turned out I was pretty good at it! From there I knew I wanted to own some sort of shop. At first it was a ladies dress store, then it morphed over time into other random ideas. Life changed, I moved around a lot then finally settled back where I started. A friend came up with the lingerie store idea, and it clicked.

PT: What about the lingerie industry interested you?  

Lauren: I’ve always loved lingerie! I love the way it makes me feel – confident, uplifted, and sexy.  And as time went on with my retail career in bridal and women’s formalwear the foundations really played a huge part in completing the entire ensemble. I learned to respect the foundational element, but never really thought about following the lingerie path until much later. It was an easy segue way.

Image via Curvaceous Lingerie

PT: Your store is located in Lansing, Michigan. How did you decide on the location?

Lauren: I grew up just outside of Lansing in a town called Okemos. We initially opened in Okemos as a mini-boutique inside a bridal salon. This worked out really well! I managed the salon and ran my own section, and in turn got to experiment with different brands without all of the immediate overhead. Once separate space opened up in an area called Old Town Lansing, I jumped on it though. Old Town is truly a unique neighborhood – full of food and the arts! We host a lot of festivals like ArtFeast and Oktoberfest, and there’s always something going on. When the business idea was born, I knew immediately Old Town was the place!

PT: Tell us about your store name. What inspired the name Curvaceous Lingerie? 

Lauren: The name Curvaceous literally was pulled off of a lingerie blog in about five minutes.  I knew I wanted an adjective as the name of the shop, so I wrote about five down and just picked one! It’s been a bit of a love/hate thing though – a lot of folks only thought we sold plus sizes in the beginning, then there were many that didn’t believe we sold plus at all! Finally I implemented the tagline “From Small to Plus” and that seems to have done the trick! Ultimately I believe the name will be an advantage, especially when we launch our e-commerce site (forecasted Q1 2018).

PT: What do you enjoy most about your local community?

Lauren: Curvaceous has amazing neighbors, and our customers are truly the heartbeat that keeps everything going. Our business and residential neighbors all support one another! We communicate and collaborate on events, projects, and even advertising. It is truly a blessing to be a part of a system like the one we’ve established in Old Town! Plus you can’t beat our Old Town Commercial Association, which does a great job hustling for all the businesses in the area.

Our customers are our inspiration.  We serve all people within our store, and have a very all-inclusive mentality. The type of people just this alone attracts by word of mouth are so incredibly supportive of us and our messaging.  It feels good to help someone with a bra fitting that has never had help before!

Image via Curvaceous Lingerie

Bra Fitting at Curvaceous Lingerie:

PT: Why is it important for women to get a professional bra fitting?  

Lauren: My number one response is always this: So they don’t go their entire lives thinking bras are uncomfortable and not made for them. I’ve had sixty year olds cry in our dressing rooms after we’ve fit them and they are comfortable for the first time EVER.  Finding a bra on your own can be tough! But, we wear them every single day! It touches our skin, it distracts us if not in place properly. Why would you not do a fitting?

Bras can affect your health as well. Nobody likes a wire that pokes and digs beneath the arm. Sometimes in extreme cases this can cause lymph damage, scarring, and cysts.  Sounds horrible, right? So take care of the problem and make sure you’re wearing something designed for your body structure, not the general public’s.

PT: What do you wish all women knew about lingerie and professional bra fitting?

Lauren: I really wish more women knew that their bands are supposed to start out firm (as they are support garments!) and that seams can be perfectly appropriate to wear. For some reason in the US we have a cultural mentality against seams showing on a woman’s bra. Is it truly the end of the world if someone knows you have a bra on? Many times these are the only types of bras that work on a woman, so her being open to them makes the fit process much better for everyone.

PT: You’re committed to offering a diverse range of styles and sizes for your customers. What do you look for when selecting new styles?

Lauren: Demand is ever-changing regarding our bra category. When looking for new styles we take customer feedback and requests very seriously, as they can be used as a guideline to purchase new goods. We always have our core basics in stock, but randomly or seasonally we notice a lack of a specific shape or maybe fabric that could be useful to throw into the mix.  Based on what we know we need, we give current brands the opportunity to fill the gap first (keeps things more simple). If they cannot fulfill what’s desired we look to outside brands that live up to our quality standards and normal price ranges. Sometimes samples are requested to ensure we’re making the best purchase for our customers we can.

Image via Curvaceous Lingerie

PT: What is the largest bra size you carry?

Lauren: Currently the largest size we have in stock is 48HH UK, or 48L US.

PT: We love that you carry bras under $50. What are some of your favorite budget-friendly bras?

Lauren: Two of our absolute favorites are the Carole Wire Bra by Parfait ($49) and the Jeanie Plunge Bra ($40).

PT: What are your current best-selling bras?

Lauren: The Parfait Carole has been our long-standing best seller, and we’re excited for it to arrive back in stock for January 2018. Additional bras that do extremely well for us are basically anything made of a spacer material. The stretch of the fabrication combined with a smooth T-shirt like front is the perfect combination for women who are full or shallow on top, or slightly uneven.

PT: How many bras does a woman actually need in her lingerie wardrobe?

Lauren: Minimum three! One to wear, one to rest, one to wash. The more you rotate, the longer they last!

PT: What can you tell our readers about the bra fitting experience at Curvaceous Lingerie?

Lauren: Bra fittings on average take about 20 minutes or so. We love to keep things efficient for our customers! We always start with a ribcage measurement then eyeball the cup size. Everything is done from the back, so there is never any awkwardness or feelings of discomfort for the customer. Part of the process we love is educating people about why exactly what they’re wearing does or does not fit correctly. Knowledge is power!

PT: Do we need an appointment for a bra fitting?

Lauren: No, you do not need an appointment at Curvaceous for a fitting unless we are having a special event and it is specifically requested. Come on in anytime and we are happy to help!

Image via Curvaceous Lingerie

Shop at Curvaceous Lingerie

Store Address: Old Town Lansing, 513 E. Grand River Ave, Lansing, MI 48906

Phone Number: (517) 881-8466

Website: Curvaceous Lingerie

To find a lingerie specialty store near you, visit our store locator here.

Feature image provided by Lauren

Did you know that 80% of a bra’s support comes from the band? In fact, a bra’s straps only account for about 20% of the overall support. Yet, most women rely on the cups and straps for support (!!!) and are disappointed when their bras don’t fit.

So, how do you end the cycle of disappointment? By getting a bra fitting from a lingerie boutique. Professional bra fitters are trained to help women find bras that fit well and feel good. Most importantly, they know what it’s like to struggle with finding good bras. They’re been there and done that. Their job is to take the stress out of bra fitting by educating you on how to put on a bra the right way and showing you what a proper fitting bra looks like.

Don’t have a lingerie store in your area? Then this guide is for you. Since you’re checking the fit of the bra at home, we’re starting with how to put on a bra and including helpful tips on how to check the fit at home.

Ready to begin? Here’s how to tell if a bra fits in four easy steps. 

1.  Slide your arms into the straps of the bra and hook the band on the loosest hook.

Another option is to hook the bra in the front first, then turn it around to the back, pull it up your ribcage, and slide your arms into the straps. Once the bra is up and in place, check the fit of the band. For a properly fitting band, you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between your skin and the band.

Before you move onto the next step, make sure the bra band is parallel to the floor. You don’t want a band that rides up in back because it’s too loose or leaves bruises or marks on your skin because it’s too tight. When you’re wearing the right size, your bra band should be parallel to the floor and feel snug and supportive.

2.  Next, scoop all of your breast issue into the cups.

As you’re scooping your breast tissue, focus on moving it away from the side underwire and toward the center of the cup (also known as the scoop and swoop).

For the best fit, all of your breast tissue should be completely contained within the cups. No breast tissue should be outside of the underwire on the sides or spilling over the tops of the cups (no “double boob”). You also shouldn’t experience any side spillage or “back fat” (which is often an indication that you need a larger cup size) in a proper fitting bra.

3.  Then, check the fit of the straps.

You should be able to fit two fingers between your skin and the strap. Adjust if needed.

4.  Finally, take a look in the mirror and examine how the bra fits and feels overall.

Ask yourself these questions:

• -Is my breast tissue spilling on the sides of the bra or at the top of the cups?
• -Is there room in the cups? Are the cups gaping?
• -Does the center front of the bra (also known as the center gore) lie flat against my chest or does it stick out?
• -Is the band riding up in the back?
• -Does the band feel loose or too tight?
• -Are the straps falling off my back (too loose or the wrong style) or leaving marks on my skin (too tight)?
• -Is this bra uncomfortable? Do I want to take it off immediately after putting it on?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, try a different bra size. Alternately, if the bra fits but it just doesn’t feel right, it could simply be the style that isn’t working for you.

Recap

So, how should a bra fit? The band should be parallel to the ground and worn on the loosest hook when you first buy it. Most importantly, it should fit snug, but not uncomfortable. The straps should stay in place on your shoulders and allow enough room for you to fit two fingers between your shoulder and the strap. The cups should contain all of your breast tissue without any spillage, gaping, or empty space.

Ultimately, you shouldn’t feel any discomfort or pain while wearing the bra. And you shouldn’t experience any marks, bruises, discoloration, or soreness after taking the bra off.

Related: What Is A Bra Fitting Specialist and What Do They Do?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured lingerie:

Parfait Ellie Unlined Wire Bra P5082 | Parfait Ellie Hipster P5085 in Pewter/Nude

Parfait Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Parfait Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Red/Black

All About A Sophisticated Pair:

Parfait Team: What inspired you to start a business? What about the lingerie industry interested you?  

Erica: When I was sixteen, my boobs went from manageable with 34C hand-me downs to exploding out of brand new 38DDs. My poor parents had no idea what to do, so they took me to Victoria’s Secret for help. The lady barely let us past the entrance before curtly deciding nothing would fit me and that I’d be better suited going to Lane Bryant. My fragile self-esteem was demolished, and I struggled against tears. At Lane Bryant, nothing fit properly, and my exasperated parents pleaded with the associate, “Well, there HAS to be somewhere we can find her a bra?” Outside of department stores, which we already tried, the only place left was Frederick’s of Hollywood (yes, the store with pink fur handcuffs, sheer chemises, and riding crops). Lacking any other alternative, my parents and I ventured into what was decidedly an adult-oriented store. It was every bit as awkward as you can imagine, and to this day, I am not sure who was more embarrassed. The silver lining was we found something workable, and I wore the same style religiously until I was twenty-one. For years, I despised bras with a fiery passion. In fact, if you told me at sixteen I would one day own a bra store, I would have told you to get your head examined. No. Freakin’. Way.

Later on, a friend suggested getting fitted for a bra because I was losing my college and grad school weight gain. I cackled while regaling her of my many failed fitting attempts at department stores. “No,” she told me, “you don’t go to a department store! You go to a boutique, or if you can’t find one of those, try Nordstrom.” With my optimism renewed, I visited the local Nordstrom, and to my surprise, I discovered I should be wearing a UK 36G! What was this sorcery? Nordstrom had exactly one bra in my size—the Fantasie 4510 Smoothing bra which is a conical, full-coverage piece of armor, but it was still one more bra than any other store had. My boobs were lifted, separated, and secure. I shamelessly stared at myself in the mirror, touching my uplifted chest in wonderment and awe. I snagged two, and those were the best bras I had ever bought. Eventually though, I daydreamed of other options. Where were the colors? What about styles with less padding? How about something with a beautiful lace cup? My research exposed me to the tantalizing world of fuller-bust bras, and I longingly opined, “if only there were more stores which stocked them.”

The more I researched, the more I wanted to share that same experience of bliss with other people. I wanted to offer more sizes and more colors, and I wanted to do so in an environment where no one ever felt the way I did in Victoria’s Secret. I wanted people to feel good not just about their bras but about themselves. The urge was so powerful, I began taking retail classes and realized this crazy idea of owning a store was more than hypothetical. It was now my dream. I changed careers from computer programming and enlisted my aunt and dad in the quest to bring people the perfect bra. And so, with a shoestring budget, we brought A Sophisticated Pair into existence.

Image via A Sophisticated Pair

PT: Your store is located in Burlington, North Carolina. How did you decide on the location?

Erica: When the store became an official plan, I lived in the country outside of Burlington; consequently, the initial search included this area as well as the adjacent cities of Greensboro, Mebane, and Graham. Burlington ultimately had the best combination of rent prices, space, and flexible property owners. Several shopping centers wanted personal guarantors for the duration of the lease, which would have nullified our liability protection under the LLC business structure. Furthermore, Burlington proved an ideal spot because we are located off the I-40/85 interstate between several major cities, including Winston-Salem, Greensboro, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh. Not to mention, we also see a surprising amount of people travelling from other cities and even other states. Every time I think of relocating, I struggle because our existing location gives us access to so many diverse cities despite being in a small suburban town.

PT: Tell us about your store name. What inspired the name A Sophisticated Pair? 

Erica: Coming up with a business name is hard, y’all. We spent several hours brainstorming and were getting progressively more frustrated with each other. Eventually, I blurted out “Fine, we’ll call it A Sophisticated Pair because we’re sophisticated, and it’s a cheeky nod to boobs.” Everyone loved it! The name inspired me to take two pears and angle them together for our logo, once again a nod to boobs. Our personality as a shop is funny, and the play on words resonates with customers.

PT: What do you enjoy most about your local community?

Erica: One of the things I loved about moving from Maryland to North Carolina is the increased sense of community here. In our shopping center, all of the neighbors take care of each other, offering advice, promoting each other to customers, and assisting in times of struggle. While Burlington does boast a number of big box retailers, there are a lot of smaller businesses too, and this extended sense of community permeates throughout, with all of us knowing firsthand how hard entrepreneurship is. For example, when our business was vandalized, a local pizza place stopped by with complimentary lunch to cheer us up. Recently, we organized a bra donation drive for a homeless shelter in Greensboro, and between housing communities, local churches, and our customers, we assembled over 400 bras! People are more invested in each other here, and I love that sense of connectivity.

Image via A Sophisticated Pair

Bra Fitting at A Sophisticated Pair:

PT: Why is it important for women to get a professional bra fitting?  

Erica: Professional fitters not only identify the size which suits a person best but can also recommend specific styles, discuss the individual’s breast shape, and offer an education on bra fitting itself. Finding the right size can be transformative for some people too, boosting confidence and increasing comfort. Moreover, most professional fitters I know love to pamper their clients. I think many people, especially women, forget to take time for themselves, and even though a bra fitting may not seem like an opportunity for self-care, the experience of being waited on and having time dedicated solely to your needs can not only make shopping more pleasant but also relaxing.

PT: What do you wish all women knew about lingerie and professional bra fitting?

Erica: There is so much about this industry that people do not understand, but I think my chief complaint centers on the misinformation surrounding the retail price of bras and lingerie. Not only do undergarments require months, even years, to design, but they are also assembled individually by trained professionals deserving a fair wage and an ethical working environment. Once the bras arrive at the retailer, the limited profit margin stretches to cover assorted expense, such as rent, utilities, and taxes, as well as pay the fitter for her expertise. Despite how we market fittings, they are anything but “free.” Most boutiques refrain from charging as we often anticipate a purchase, but it can be heart breaking when clients opt to purchase online or ask for discounts as incentive to buy in-store. Larger chains condition consumers to anticipate coupons and promotions, causing them to question whether the retail price of anything is genuinely in line with its value and quality. After all, with 20 and 30% off sales, even on newly arrived inventory, it’s natural to assume the sale price is “the fair price” and thus more representative of the product’s value. With lingerie, this is simply not the case, and it’s a constant battle to educate customers about our pricing structure and decisions.

PT: You’re committed to offering a diverse range of styles and sizes for your customers. What do you look for when selecting new styles?

Erica: Fit, fit, and more fit. I am not ashamed to admit I use my customers as test subjects and often special order prospective bras for them. It helps me evaluate the advantages and shortcomings of a particular style before I invest too much of our buying budget. If a bra fits well, I consider other criteria, including whether it compliments or cannibalizes existing inventory, what new demands or demographics it serves, what colors are available, and the relationship between price and quality.

Image via A Sophisticated Pair

PT: What is the largest bra size you carry?

Erica: In store, we carry up to a 50 band regularly but can order up to a 56, and our cup sizes range from US A to O (UK K) in select bands. Later this year, we’ll be stocking styles available up to a UK L cup for people sized out of existing options.

PT: We love that you carry bras under $50. What are some of your favorite budget-friendly bras?

Erica: As a small business owner, I live on a tight budget myself, and I try to be respectful that not all clients can afford to spend $70+ on a bra. Having options at multiple price points makes us more accessible and in turn allows us to help more people. In fact, our number one selling bra for the entire shop is the Goddess Keira due in large part to the huge range of sizes and constantly changing fashion colors. The Parfait Charlotte always does well for us too, and I am looking forward to the solid black version releasing later this year. People have been asking for basic colors in this bra since we started carrying it (*hint hint*). We also do well with the b.tempt’d b.splendid series for US A-DDD cups, the Parfait Carole, and the Wacoal Halo Lace.

PT: What are your current best-selling bras?

Erica: I haven’t compiled my sixth annual stats yet, but as I mentioned, I know the Keira has become our number one seller. Other contenders from last year are the Freya Deco, Elomi Amelia, Panache Sports Bra, Parfait Charlotte, Wacoal Basic Beauty, Natori Element, and Comexim Plunge.

PT: How many bras does a woman actually need in her lingerie wardrobe?

Erica: In my opinion, budget is the primary factor. At minimum, I recommend purchasing two everyday bras simply because establishing a rotation preserves the elastic and extends the lifespan. If budget allows, aim for at least four everyday bras in addition to any specialty styles like sports or strapless you may need. There’s nothing wrong with having more, and I know my own will power is weak. Sometimes I must remind myself I have but two boobs and can only wear one bra at a time.

Additionally, there’s also a tendency for people to stock up on bras all at once, which is totally fine, but I think the financial investment works better if you spread it out over several months, starting with two or three bras and then adding more. A nice byproduct is you rarely run out of bras, and you can try new styles or new colors as they release.

Some of us are shy about buying colored bras. What advice would you give to a woman who loves color, but isn’t sure how to incorporate it into her wardrobe?

I always ask clients reticent to break away from neutrals what colors and fabrics they wear frequently. If a person wears a lot of mid-tone or dark tops (*cough* me *cough*), the color will conceal almost everything. No one will see your emerald green bra under that navy blue blouse unless it’s super duper thin. Even if your wardrobe incorporates more light or thinner fabrics, color is still accessible. Everyone needs a flesh-tone option to wear under these styles, but consider expanding beyond the standard neutrals like cafe, mocha, cinnamon, or chocolate. For example, if you’re of the ultra pale variety such as myself, explore light pastels like blush pink or lavender. For darker skin tones, consider olive, charcoal, or even plum. So long as the contrast between the color of the bra and the color of your skin is minimized, you will receive the same benefits as neutrals.

PT: What can you tell our readers about the bra fitting experience at A Sophisticated Pair?

Erica: Everyone is fitted by me personally, and I foster a “Judgment Free” space in my store. I don’t make comments about your weight, size, skin, hair, makeup, underarm hair, or clothes. I’m here to help your boobs, and I try to do so in a fun, informative, and relaxed environment. I get to know my customers on a personal level and remember many of them by name. With fittings, I begin the process by discussing the client’s existing bra, style preferences, and any problems he or she experiences. I then pull a “starter bra” to confirm my size estimate before bringing in all the bras in the shop meeting the client’s criteria. If we do not have something, I discuss the options for ordering. We distinguish ourselves in how we interact with customers, treating them like the people they are rather than as a sales figure. My goal is for customers to leave the shop believing the boutique experience is the best experience.

PT: We love that you offer appointments for bra fitting. How can we schedule an appointment?

Erica: Simply call the store (336) 270-6744 or email me, and I can either reserve a fitting room during or outside of normal store hours. For appointments outside posted hours, I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice but prefer two to three business days.

Image via A Sophisticated Pair

Shop at A Sophisticated Pair

Store Address: 1143 St. Mark’s Church Road, Suite E, Burlington, NC 27215

Phone Number: (336) 270-6744

Website: A Sophisticated Pair

To find a lingerie specialty store near you, visit our store locator here.

Feature image: A Sophisticated Pair

All About Tryst Lingerie:

Parfait Team: What inspired you to start a business?

Shana: I have an entrepreneurial spirit and have always owned my own businesses. Anita (my business partner) and I like being our own bosses. 

PT: What about the lingerie industry interested you?  

Shana: Since I was a teen I always struggled with finding a bra that fit that wasn’t ugly. I decided that I wanted to help women find beautiful and comfortable lingerie, specifically bras, that fit them properly. When I got into the industry there was not a lot available for larger cupped women but there is a lot more choice for women these days.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

PT: Your store is located in Toronto, ON. How did you decide on the location?

Shana & Anita: We are Toronto locals. We love our city.

Shana: Being able to help women has always been my main focus. I saw a lack of variety in the stores in Toronto and wanted to fill that gap.

PT: Tell us about your store name. What inspired the name Tryst Lingerie? 

Shana: My mum, now retired, was our 3^rd business partner and she came up with the name. Tryst means a private, romantic rendezvous. We believe that buying lingerie should be as pleasurable as a tryst.

PT: What do you enjoy most about your local community?

Shana & Anita: We have just moved to the Toronto neighbourhood known as West Queen West. This area was voted by Vogue magazine as North America’s hippest district and second in the world. We are surrounded by amazing, independent clothing shopping and cool cafes and restaurants. Our new BIA is very active – we even have bee hotels in our street-scaping. The area is also very LGBTQ positive.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

Bra Fitting at Tryst Lingerie:

PT: Why is it important for women to get a professional bra fitting?  

Shana & Anita: If a woman can be fit in a boutique that carries many sizes and styles she has more options in finding a bra that fits her well. It’s important for her to have someone who knows how stock fits on different size breasts. A professional fitter can identify different shaped breasts and knows what merchandise would fit that customer. The customer benefits from all of our product knowledge and large selection of merchandise.

PT: What do you wish all women knew about lingerie and professional bra fitting?

Shana & Anita: That it is not painful and we don’t need to see you naked (topless) to fit you in a bra.

PT: You’re committed to offering a diverse range of styles and sizes for your customers. What do you look for when selecting new styles?

Shana & Anita: One of the things we look for is a style that fills voids in our stock. If we need specific shapes in certain sizes we keep our eyes open for that. We base some of our ordering on shapes and styles that have worked well for us in the past.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

PT: What is the largest bra size you carry?

Shana & Anita: We carry up to an English K or European 0 and the biggest back that we have a variety in is 46.

PT: How many bras does a woman actually need in her lingerie wardrobe?

Shana & Anita: Ideally enough so that she always has a freshly washed bra to wear. So this would depend on how often a customer wants to do laundry. And she might want a strapless and sports bra as well. So that might mean at least 9 bras if she does her laundry once a week.

PT: What can you tell our readers about the bra fitting experience at Tryst Lingerie?

Shana & Anita: A fitting at Tryst begins with a quick measurement and a two-way conversation to determine what the customer is looking for. We start with a well-fitting bra to determine the customer’s size and proceed to bring her bras to try based on her needs.

PT: We love that you offer appointments for bra fitting. How can we schedule an appointment?

Shana & Anita: Just drop in. No appointment necessary at Tryst.

Image via Tryst Lingerie

Shop at Tryst Lingerie

Store Address: 711 Queen Street West M6J 1E6, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Phone Number: (647) 430-0994

Website: Tryst Lingerie

To find a lingerie specialty store near you, visit our store locator here.

Feature image: Tryst Lingerie

With email, social media, and free Wi-Fi everywhere, it can be easy to feel as though you can never shut off from work — even when finally taking a vacation. But vacations from work are necessary to help you feel rejuvenated, rested, and energized when you return. I know I have a difficult time completely switching off from work, but it is possible to take a step back, especially when I remember that I’m a better worker when I return. I think one thing that keeps us all hooked to our job worries when we are away is the worry that something will occur while we are away that requires our attention. But, if you truly think about it, it is likely that work will go on as normal while you are away. Let your job stresses melt away when you get away, so that you feel refreshed when you return.

1.  Choose an accommodation without Wi-Fi

If you have a problem switching off from work when there is Internet around, consider choosing an accommodation without free Wi-Fi. That way, you won’t be tempted to check your email while poolside and you can’t work virtually from your room, forcing you to go out and enjoy yourself.

2.  Set up an email autoresponder

After you remind your colleagues and bosses prior to leaving for vacation, set up an email autoresponder that states you are out of office and when you’ll return. Colleagues, bosses, and clients can easily forget you’re not in, so a gentle reminder lets them know you’ve received their email and that you’ll respond when you return.

3.  Allot yourself 30 minutes of work/internet time (only if you must!)

Shhh … I’m going to break the rules for a minute. Since I work for myself, I typically do work — a tiny bit — when I’m on vacation. But, I only allot myself 30 minutes maximum to check my email each morning, with a cup of coffee in hand. This allows me to handle anything urgent that might come up or send along any finalized projects. This gives me the rest of the day and night to enjoy my vacation guilt free and without worry. Whether you need to spend a bit of time in the morning, at night, or during your child’s naptime, do it, but don’t let it interrupt your vacation.

If you’ve chosen to stay at an accommodation without Internet (good on you!), take this chance to explore the local café scene. Not only will this get you out of your accommodation, but you’ll also get to experience a bit of local culture while spending your 30 minutes of allotted work time in a cafe.

4.  Leave your computer at home

If you really need to switch off and allow yourself some time to replenish your creativity, leave your laptop at home. If you don’t have your computer with you, you won’t be tempted to open it up and work on projects.

5.  Don’t feel guilty

Everyone needs a vacation from time to time; you shouldn’t feel guilty about completely forgetting about work while you’re gone. And remember, the majority of things that come up can either be dealt with by someone else or can wait until you return. So, enjoy your vacation and return to your job refreshed and relaxed.

Entertaining, be it colleagues, friends, or family, has a bad reputation for being expensive. From purchasing extra food, supplying drinks, and decorating, having people over to your home can really put stress on your budget. But, entertaining doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can host parties in your home without worrying about spending more than usual during your weekly grocery store run. All you need to do is pick the right time to host, affordably tasty food to serve, and avoid going over the top. Whether you are on a strict budget or not, saving a little extra money certainly can’t hurt. So, take this as a challenge to see how affordable you can make your next get together.

1.  Potluck-style party

Depending on the crowd, you could choose to host a potluck-style party where guests are asked to bring a dish to share. I love this option when you are entertaining on a budget, since you get to taste different foods and all of the pressure for cooking (and spending money on food) isn’t on your shoulders. Most guests are also more than willing to bring complimentary dishes or drinks, so you shouldn’t feel uncomfortable asking. I’ve found that when you invite friends, family, or colleagues to a casual potluck, it is best to let them know what you’ll be making. This helps your guests to also plan what they can prepare.

My favorite foods to prepare for a lunch or dinner potluck are fresh tortellini, a large salad, pasta salad, or chips with homemade salsa, guacamole, and/or a Za’atar beetroot dip.

2.  Pick the meal carefully

Just as with going out to eat in a restaurant, breakfast tends to be the cheapest meal of the day while dinner is often the most expensive. Opting to entertain for breakfast or brunch can save a serious amount of money. Plus, everyone loves spending a relaxing brunch at a friend’s house. And don’t feel shy about hosting a potluck brunch if your budget really is tight!

My food picks for hosting brunch include a yummy quick bread or crumb cake, bagels and cream cheese, fresh fruit salad, and yogurt parfait with fruit, granola, and honey. If you are concerned about picky eaters or want to provide a bit of fun, you could turn the yogurt parfait into a make-your-own station, with different granola, fruit, honey, and nuts on offer. Add a freshly brewed pot of coffee and options for tea, and you’ve got yourself a perfect brunch get together.

If breakfast isn’t your thing, how about hosting a happy hour or aperitivo? You could provide light snacks like chips and dip, a bread, cheese, and meat platter, and sliced vegetables with dip. Not only are those snacks tasty, they are also easy to throw together when you get home from work. Perhaps supply a bottle of wine or six pack of beer and ask your guests to do the same. Then you are all set for a fun after work party!

3.  Use loyalty cards when shopping

I love loyalty cards. While doing your regular shopping, you can take advantage of special sales or deals and often accumulate points that can go towards future shopping trips. Whenever possible, I use a loyalty card, especially when shopping for a party since discounts really do add up to major savings.

4.  Keep it casual

Hosting a casual party is much less stressful because you can ask your guests to bring a dish and you don’t need to worry about a special outfit or decorating. A casual party doesn’t require anything more than cleaning up, preparing a dish or two, and setting out utensils, plates, glasses, and napkins.

Along the same lines as keeping it casual, try not to go over the top. At family gatherings when I’m not hosting, I’ve noticed that there is always enough food to feed a small army and I never leave without a packed Tupperware full of leftovers. While I love leftovers, it isn’t really necessary to offer so much food when you host a party. All you need are a few solid options to keep guests fed and having fun.

Have you ever had a bra shopping experience that quickly turned sour?

Maybe the sales associate tried to put you in a size you knew you didn’t wear. Or maybe you left the store frustrated by the lack of customer service (like being forgotten about in the fitting room when you’re waiting for the sales associate to bring you a different size).

It’s easy to feel like no one understands you when you’ve spent time in a store and have nothing to show for it. No one wants or expects their shopping trips to turn into bad experiences.

If you’re tired of walking out of stores annoyed and empty handed, read on for three red flags to watch out for when you’re shopping for new bras.

1.  When you’re told that they don’t have your size, but “this size will work.”

How many times have you walked into a store and left feeling like the sales associate just wanted to make a sale?

When you’re trying on bras, you’ll know immediately if something isn’t fitting right. Trust your intuition. And shop elsewhere if someone tells you you should wear a 38DD bra when you know for sure you wear a 32DDD and they just don’t have your size in stock.

2.  When you realize the sales associate isn’t trained in bra fitting.

Not all lingerie stores train their sales associates in bra fitting. For the stores that do train their employees, the length and depth of the training program can vary. Some range from a few hours to a few months or more.

Most specialty boutiques have extensive training programs that ensure the sales associate has fit hundreds of women (often under the supervision of an experienced fitter) before she does any bra fittings on her own. This means that she has worked with a lot of different women and should know exactly what you need, saving you time and money. Plus, she’s trained to fit you in the right size, so she won’t try to squeeze you into a size that doesn’t fit just to sell you something.

3.  When the sales associate doesn’t respect your personal space.

If you’ve ever had a bra fitting, you know how intimate bra fittings can be. Professional bra fitters create an environment where you feel comfortable getting fitted and letting someone into your personal space.

If you feel uncomfortable at any time during the bra fitting or shopping trip, speak up. If you want to try on bras privately and without help, let the bra fitter know. And if the store can’t provide what you’re looking for, won’t give you your space, or they’re just not understanding of what you need, thank them for their help and be on your way.

Have you ever had a bad bra shopping experience?

While the gender pay gap continues to be a struggle for women around the globe, what we do with our money can set us apart – and set us up for a better life and retirement. The key is knowing how to invest, as women, before we buy the first stock, or open that first savings account. Here are 5 things to consider before investing:

1.  Take an investing course.

Yes, I said it. The ‘education’ word. When do we have time to take a course on investing when we’re already working 40 hours a week, raising kids, spending time with our spouses, and having a life? Taking an investing course won’t be a simple thing, but it will be worth it because you’ll come out of the course feeling more confident about what all those terms your HR rep at work or your personal investment guy says.

2.  Invest in companies you use.

My husband is a huge fan of Pepsi; I am a huge fan of Sharpies. When it came time to diversify our portfolio, he chose to invest a percentage in PepsiCo, while I put a percentage in Newell Brands. Now, every time I buy Sharpies, I feel like I’m investing not only in a great pen, but in our future.

3.  Invest in companies you admire.

Is there a business that, for example, builds water wells in Africa or that supports girl’s schools in India? Why not invest your money with a company that gives back to the world? It goes back to the fact that as women, we are nurturers – investing in companies that vie back allows us to nurture the whole world.

4.  Invest in women led companies.

Not just because we’re all about girl power, but because, historically speaking, women-led, publicly-traded companies have performed better than their male-led counterparts. That doesn’t just mean companies with female CEOs, but companies with larger numbers of women on their board of directors or in other leadership roles.

5.  Don’t let investing stress you out.

As women, we are nurturers, and that nurturing can make us more averse to high-risk investing. If that sounds like you, don’t beat yourself up about not investing thousands in the volatile stock market every month. Instead, look at longer term investments and those that are less volatile. There is nothing wrong with growing that nest egg at a slower pace.

While our attitudes and beliefs about money start in childhood, we can always develop better money saving habits.

{Editor’s Note: This blog post references an opinion and is for information purposes only.  It is not intended to be investment advice.  Seek a duly licensed professional for investment advice.}

I’m quickly approaching my 9^th year of living far away from my family and friends; the closest I’ve lived over the 9 years was a 5 hour flight and the farthest was a 24 hour trip. While it is my choice to live so far away (and I do love the experiences it brings) it can be difficult to maintain relationships with parents, siblings, other close family members, and friends. But it is possible to maintain and even grow these relationships as long as you are willing to put in a little bit of work. Here are my five favorite tips for staying connected with friends and family:

1.  Skype

If you’ve not heard of it before, Skype is a really awesome video chat service that is free if calling from one Skype account to another. Being able to video chat with friends and family is such a great way to stay in touch and even feel like you are much closer to each other than you actually are. I have a weekly Skype date with my parents while they are eating breakfast and I’m cooking dinner. It really feels special to spend part of my day with them each week and to catch up on what’s new almost in person.

2.  Visits

Though flying back to visit my family in the U.S. gets expensive, this is also easily one of the best ways to build relationships. When I visit the U.S., my son gets to spend days with his grandparents, we lounge at the beach, and sometimes we even vacation together. The memories we build certainly out-weigh the cost of the flight.

At this point in my life my friends are scattered all over the world, but I do my absolute best to visit when I can. This means budgeting and planning, often times way in advance, so that we can manage a visit. Visits certainly don’t happen every year, and sometimes not even every other year, but when they do happen, they are truly a special, wonderful time for everyone. These visits re-charge our relationships and bring us even closer.

3.  WhatsApp

WhatsApp is relatively new to me, but I love it. This phone app allows you to message friends, send pictures, and make phone calls to other users around the world — also for free! I love that I can message a friend a picture of our home, or send my sister a picture of her nephew. Real time chats are just like sending text messages, but without the high international costs.

4.  Celebrate important dates

One of my very close friends who lives very far away just told me she is pregnant with her second child. I’m super excited for her and as soon as she told me, I started making a little list of items I’d like to send her to welcome the little one, and to treat her older son. Celebrating births, birthdays, weddings, and other important events are essential for feeling closer and more connected with friends and family who aren’t close enough to drop by.

Though living so far away means I don’t get to be at every birthday party or graduation, I can still let my loved ones know that I’m thinking of them by sending letters, postcards, small gifts, or simply writing an email.

5.  Email

Emails are a quick, easy, and free way to stay in touch with loved ones from afar. This is also probably the most obvious way to keep in touch and works pretty well even with those who are not so tech savvy.

If you, too, live far away from family or friends, keep in mind that you may lose touch with some people over time. Though it can be sad to see relationships change or disappear, do try to remember that you’re lives are following different paths and you’re both filling it with different experiences and new friends.

Like finding the right bra, finding the right swimsuit can be an effort in frustration. A top that fits may be paired with bottoms that don’t, and vice versa. Here are a few tips to help you find the right swimsuit for you this summer.

Pear

For pear shapes, keep the attention up top. Curvy hips are beautiful, and the right suit will help you embrace that curve! Choose a top that bares your shoulders, as a lot of strap-detail, or accentuates the bust. This will draw eyes to your shoulders – and we all have great shoulders! Don’t try to hide curvy hips in boy-shorts or bottoms with a thick band, this will only accentuate the hips, and could make you self-conscious.

Apple

For apple shapes, remember to support the girls! Halter suits may look beautiful in the store, but after a few minutes in the water, the material can begin to sag. Then, you’ll spend your beach day tugging at the straps trying to tighten them up. Look for suits that include underwire or that have extra support in the bra area; try looking for suits that include a cup size – just like your bra! – for the best fit and support. Hint: the wider the band, the more support you’ll get.

Related: How To Define Your Swimsuit Style

Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black

Small Bust

For those with a smaller bust, triangle or bandeau tops, ruffles or even padded/push-up tops were practically made for you!

Curvy

If you’re concerned about showing off your tummy – try a one-piece or a two-piece with high waist bottoms. A fitted seam at the waist naturally slims the tummy and waist, so look into suits that include this. You could also opt for a tankini-style top, with a bit of fabric over your torso, rather than a traditional bikini top, and pair with your favorite swimsuit bottoms.

Last minute reminders

Remember that water makes suits stretch so if the suit feels loose in the store, try sizing down. If the choice is trendy-but-uncomfortable or classic-but-fitted, go classic-and-fitted all the way because that will make you more comfortable. Comfort is key in every swimsuit decision – because when we’re comfortable we feel more capable, more beautiful, and more at ease with our surroundings.

Whatever your body type, go into swimsuit shopping prepared to try on plenty of different suits because you never know what suit will make you feel like a million bucks!

Related: Worth The Investment: Bra Sized Swimwear

Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black

We Highly Recommend

If you’re shopping for a swimsuit that fits your bust perfectly, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find swimsuit tops that stay in place, especially when you’re shopping on your own. If you’re full-busted and you’ve struggled with finding a flattering swimsuit top or if you’ve never tried a bra-sized swim top before, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and carry a selection of swimsuits and swimsuit tops. Their expert bra fitters can help take the pain and frustration out of swimsuit shopping and do all the work for you. They can help you find a bra-sized swimsuit top with the support and lift that you’re looking for and they can also help you find new everyday bras that fit well and feel good. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best swimsuits are hiding.

If you’re not happy with the swimsuits in your closet, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy swimsuit shopping!

Featured image swimwear:

Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black