Today, I read a story on Mashable about Sunrise co-host Sam Armytage, a woman who was unfortunately criticized, bullied, and subjected to public ridicule for wearing “granny panties” while out running errands. The Daily Mail AU published the incredibly intrusive “story” and featured creepy, unflattering images of Sam. At first, I was shocked and then appalled that any news outlet would think it acceptable to publish such demeaning “news”. It’s repulsive and I hope The Daily Mail AU and anyone who criticized Sam learned a very valuable lesson.

Fortunately, there are good people out there and many of them took to Twitter to defend Sam. The Daily Mail AU is now being heralded as “pathetic”, there is talk of a possible defamation lawsuit, and countless news outlets around the world are reporting on The Daily Mail AU’s poor taste (as they should). No one deserves to be degraded or bullied. We stand with Sam.

Must we remind them that it’s 2016? Women are empowered and we know it. We know we have every right to choose what we want to wear and that includes our underwear. As women, we’ve been subjected to comments on our bodies for far too long. Those negative and hurtful comments need to stop. I know I speak for women everywhere when I state that we won’t stand for cyberbullying or any kind of bullying anymore. Enough is enough.

Featured image lingerie:

Jeanie Strapless Contour Bra 4815 | Jeanie High Cut Brief 4803 in Black

Imagine wearing a bra for 8-10 hours and then putting on another bra before going to sleep. Did you just shudder at the thought? I know I did. Many of us can’t wait to take off our bra at the end of the day. It signals a welcome transition to relaxation. It allows us to finally breathe easy and not feel restricted. Not wearing a bra can feel like a luxury, so we look for alternatives, like dresses with built in support up top and other ways to go braless. For those of us who are fuller busted, bras might be our least favorite article of clothing, especially when we have to wear them for hours on end. Because of this, we celebrate little victories, like making it through the workday without adjusting our bras and wanting to tear them off or surviving airport security without being subjected to a pat down.

That being said, sometimes a bra can help provide necessary comfort for a peaceful night’s sleep or even peace of mind. How, you ask? For most women, the ideal sleeping bra is wireless and lightly lined and has the ability to keep everything in place during those 6-8 hours of slumber. Is this a bra of miracles and myth? Perhaps, but maybe not. With the possibility of waking up rejuvenated, restored, and well rested, is it bad to sleep with a bra on? Can a bra actually help provide a good night’s sleep? Additionally, while the idea of sleeping with a bra on doesn’t sound particularly appealing, are there any health benefits to wearing a bra to bed? And if so, is sleeping with a bra on the secret to avoiding sagginess and premature aging? The answers might surprise you.

1.  Can sleeping with a bra on cause the wearer to develop breast cancer?

The short answer is a heavily debated no. Though some studies have tried to prove that sleeping with a bra on can cause the wearer to develop breast cancer, this is not true according to the many renowned medical doctors and experts who have expelled this myth.

2.  Can sleeping with a bra on help alleviate breast discomfort and pain?

Yes, but it depends on the type of bra that you select. Women who wear a C or larger cup size are sometimes advised to sleep in a lightweight bra. It’s often especially recommended if the wearer frequently suffers from breast discomfort while sleeping. Some have even suggested women wear underwired bras to bed, but there is no evidence that bras with underwire are more beneficial at night than bras without underwire.

3.  Can sleeping with a bra on prevent sagginess and premature aging?

Not exactly. While a bra can help with breast pain, it will not prevent sagginess or premature aging. For every study that promotes this myth, there’s a study that promotes the exact opposite (don’t wear a bra at all to prevent sagginess).

4.  Is wearing bra to bed bad for your health?

It can be. Wearing the wrong size bra can cause restless, irritation, poor circulation and discomfort, regardless of the time of day. If you prefer to wear a bra to bed, look for one without underwire. If you choose to wear a bra to bed with underwire, please make sure you’re wearing the right size. Check out ‘Why All Women Should Get A Professional Bra Fitting’ if you’re unsure about getting a bra fitting or if you’ve never been fit for a bra. Once you’re ready for a bra fitting, these retailers can help.

While wearing a bra to bed may not be the answer to sagginess, premature aging, and gravity, it can help you get a good night’s sleep if you regularly suffer from breast discomfort or tenderness. Ultimately, there aren’t many proven health benefits for wearing a bra to bed. Is it bad to sleep with a bra on? Not necessarily. If you’re happy wearing a bra to bed, go for it! If wearing a bra to bed makes you uncomfortable, skip it! Above all, wear what makes you most comfortable. 

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 well and feel good, 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!

Related: Where To Buy Wireless Bras

Featured lingerie:

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

Do you sleep with a bra on? Tell us in the comments below!

Have you ever had one of those days when you just didn’t want to wear a bra? Where you were fully prepared to breakup with your bras and deliver the best breakup speech of all time? Maybe you’re ready to free your boobs from boob jail (they’re served a long enough sentence). Or maybe you’re going on a trip and you’re concerned your bra is going to set off the metal detector (we’ve all been there). Whether you’re looking to go braless for a day (your boobs deserve a break) or you’re ready to swear off bras for the rest of your life (remember that breakup speech?), here is how to get away with not wearing bra:

Source: imgfave

1.  Cover your nipples (or don’t).

Source: Bristols Six

If you don’t want your nipples to show, try adhesive nipple covers or even pasties (if you’re bold). There are many options for stylishly concealing your nipples.

2.  Fashion tape is your new best friend.

Source: Birchbox

Wearing a dress or top with a tricky neckline? Fashion tape can help keep everything in place on the days you go braless. No nip slips!

3.  Try a bralette.

There are so many cute bralettes out there that provide decent to excellent support (like the Molly Triangle Bra from Affinitas in gorgeous teal). Best of all, you don’t have to hide them because they’re meant to be shown!

4.  Rock a bodysuit.

Source: Luvv It

Bodysuits can provide an extra layer of coverage in place of a bra. They’re quick and easy and can be worn year round.

5.  Wear a top with built in cups.

Source: Glamour.com

You might not get the best support from a top with built in cups, but they do create more of a rounded look and give the illusion that you’re wearing a bra.

6.  Choose a dress with some structure up top.

Source: ShopStyle

Dresses and tops with embroidery, lace, and bold patterns will take the attention away from your boobs. For the most supportive fit, look for dresses with seams below the bust that are fitted throughout the top. Loose fitting dresses are more comfortable, but won’t be as supportive for those of us who are larger busted.

7. Add layers.

Source: Comoorganizarlacasa.com

Wearing layers can help with hiding the fact that you’re braless. Layering will also keep you warm and comfy when the temperatures drop.

8.  Wear a pretty camisole.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk | Splash News

Camisoles are perfect on their own or layered with a slouchy sweater. If you’re going braless in the summer, look for paper thin camisoles in light, breathable fabrics or opt for structured camisoles that fit more like bustiers.

9.  State the obvious.

Source: Shop.nylon.com

A braless option for those of us who are feeling daring and carefree. Make everyone wonder if you’re actually braless!

10.  Embrace it.

Source: Lookbook Store

Rock those shoulder dresses and backless tops (finally!) Embrace the braless look and don’t worry if your nipples show. If someone stares at you, stare back! If you’re not feeling as bold, ignore them. You don’t need to apologize for choosing to go braless – it’s your choice, not theirs!

What’s the #1 secret to pulling off the braless look?

Confidence. If you present yourself with confidence, you can pull off pretty much anything. Just remember: Choosing to not wear a bra is nothing to be ashamed about. While society sometimes dictates otherwise, no one is forcing us to wear a bra every day. We have so many other choices that don’t involve padding and underwire. Go out and own it!

Worried your bra might be too small? You’re not the only one. With bands ranging from 26-52, cups ranging from A-I, and sizing differing between brands, it’s harder than ever to find the right bra size. In fact, studies have shown that an estimated 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra. That’s a lot of women suffering in ill-fitting bras! Unsure if you’re a member of the 80% club?

Here’s how to tell if your bra is too small:

1.  Your breast tissue spills over the cups.

Do your cups runneth over? If your bra is too small, you’ve probably suffered from overflowing cups and discomfort. Breast tissue spillage is the #1 indicator of a bra that’s too small. When you’re wearing the right size, all of your breast tissue is comfortably contained in the cups. If this is something you suffer from, now is the best time to make sure you’re in the right size. No more suffering!

2.  The band digs into your skin.

Have you ever taken off your bra and noticed red marks on your skin? It’s a (painful) reminder that you may be wearing the wrong size bra. No bra should feel so snug that it’s physically painful. You deserve a bra that fits well and feels good!

Related: 10 Telltale Signs You Are Wearing The Wrong Bra Size

3.  You’re convinced your boobs are going to fly out of the top (or the bottom) of your bra at any minute.

Do you ever feel like your boobs are going to break free if you move or bend over? What a scary feeling! No one should have to worry about their boobs breaking free (especially at work). If you feel like the cups aren’t containing enough, try a cup size larger, or even better, go to your favorite lingerie store and a professional bra fitter will help you find the right size!

4.  Your bra feels uncomfortable all the time. 

If you find yourself suffering from an uncomfortable bra, it’s time to find a new bra! With so many options out there (wireless! racerback! bralette!) there’s absolutely no reason to settle for a sub-par bra. The right bra might not feel comfortable 100% of the time, but at least you won’t want to burn it at the end of the day!

5.  Your weight has changed and the bra feels small.

If you’ve recently lost or gained weight, become pregnant (congrats!), had a baby, or started nursing, your bra size may have changed. Just like you’d schedule an appointment with your doctor, it’s important to make time to shop for new bras in your new size (even if you feel the size change is only temporary). If you aren’t sure where to start, check out ‘What To Expect At A Professional Bra Fitting’ and ‘Answers To Your Frequently Asked Bra Fitting Questions’. They’ll point you in the right direction!

Related: Here’s How An Ill Fitting Bra Affects Your Body

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 well and feel good, 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!

Lastly, if you’re concerned your bra is too small, your bra probably is, in fact, too small. Trust your intuition and go get a bra fitting!

Chances are your holiday shopping list includes at least one fashionista. They’re among the hardest to buy for because they seem to have everything! We’ve compiled the eight best holiday gifts under $150 that are sure to win any discerning fashionista’s stamp of approval. Read on for the 8 best holiday fashionista gift ideas under $150!

1.  Lipstick in bold shades she can wear all year long.

Urban Decay Full Frontal Reloaded Vice Lipstick Stash from Sephora

2.  A deluxe perfume set in her signature scent.

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Travel Gift Set from Sephora

3.  A necklace fit for a queen in the perfect shade of red.

Mardi Gras Necklace from J. Crew

4.  New brushes (for a steal!) from the same brand that the pros love.

SET 701 – 7 PIECE ROSÉ SET from Morphe

5.  Ultra soft cashmere gloves to keep her hands warm and toasty.

Halogen® Rib Knit Cashmere Gloves from Nordstrom

6.  The perfect pajamas for Christmas morning.

PJ Salvage Print Flannel Pajamas from Nordstrom

7.   A stylish reminder of her daily mantra.

MantraBand ‘She Believed She Could’ Cuff from Nordstrom

8.  The beauty gift that keeps on giving.

Monthly Beauty Box Subscription from Birchbox

{Editor’s Note: This post is not sponsored by or affiliated with Sephora, J. Crew, Morphe, Nordstrom, or Birchbox.}

What are you getting the fashionistas on your list this year? Share with us in the comments below!

If you’ve ever wondered “How often should I change my bra?” you’re not alone. Many of us are guilty of wearing the same bra one-two-three days in a row (!) without thinking twice. But honestly, “How often should you change your bra?” Maybe it’s laundry day, maybe it’s the only bra that fits, or maybe you just can’t be bothered to grab another bra (we’ve all been there). While it’s easy to grab the closest bra to you when you’re getting dressed in the morning, it’s not the best idea to wear the same bra two days in a row.

Still wondering how often you should change your bra? Here’s the answer that you’re probably not expecting: You should never wear the same bra two days in a row. Read on for the reasons why wearing the same bra everyday is not only bad for your bra, but bad for your health.

Why shouldn’t you wear the same bra two days in a row?

1.  Your bras need breaks in between wear.

Parfait Lucie Bra P5202 | Parfait Lucie Brief P5203 in Mood Indigo

Breaks allow the elasticity to retain its shape, which helps the bra last longer. Wearing the same bra everyday can shorten its lifespan and quickly stretch out the band. The shorter the lifespan, the sooner you’ll need new bras, so be sure to protect your investments!

2.  Bras don’t repel body odor, sweat, dead skin cells, and moisture.

Parfait Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Parfait Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze

This is the gross truth. When you sweat, the molecules become trapped in the fibers of the bra. The molecules only wash out when you wash your bras. By wearing the same bra everyday, you’re creating a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to clogged pores and blemishes in hard to treat places.

3.  You deserve better.

Parfait Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Parfait Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze

You’re doing yourself a disservice if you’re wearing the same bra everyday. There are so many gorgeous bras out there just waiting for you. If you’re stuck in a lingerie rut, check out our ‘Lingerie We Love’ series with pretty bras in bold colors such as bright red, emerald green, cobalt blue, and deep burgundy. Unsure of your size? We recommend a professional bra fitting (painless, we promise!) and our helpful guide. Still not sure you’re ready for a bra fitting? Read ‘Why All Women Should Get A Professional Bra Fitting’ and tell us if you’re not convinced!

Related: Bra Care 101: How To Wash Bras

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 well and feel good, 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 image lingerie:

Parfait Lucie Bra P5202 | Parfait Lucie Brief P5203 in Mood Indigo

Your turn to share! In your opinion, how often are you supposed to change your bra?

Three cheers for the holiday hostess! We’ve compiled the eight best holiday hostess gifts under $100 that are sure to stand out among the festive bottles of champagne and wine. Read on for the 8 best holiday hostess gift ideas under $100!

1.  Candles that will make her home smell amazing.

Voluspa Maison Holiday Votive Candles Set of 4 from Nordstrom. Read our review of Voluspa and Bath and Body Works candles here.

2.  Gorgeous stationary that she’ll want to use all year long.

Stationary from Rifle Paper Co.

3.  A tea pot that encourages tea parties.

Sweet Sentiment Teapot from Anthropologie

4.  Pretty vases for showing off all of her favorite flowers.

Gold Vases from Wayfair

5.  A box of chocolates because she’s the sweetest.

12 Pc. Classic Chocolate Gift Box from Maggie Louise Confections

6.  The cutest four legged companions for wine and cheese night.

Scottie Cheese Board from Anthropologie

7.   Light reading to inspire the drinks at her next party.

Parisian Cocktails from Anthropologie

8.  The perfect glasses for a champagne toast.

Ophelia Flute from Anthropologie

What are your favorite hostess gifts? Share them with us in the comments below!

{This post is not affiliated with or sponsored by any of the brands or businesses mentioned in this post.}

Looking for the perfect gift, but want to add a personal touch? Look no further! We’ve compiled our favorite homemade gift ideas under $25 below. They’re witty and creative and perfect for a girl on a budget! Read on for 8 easy homemade holiday gift ideas under $25 and be sure to check back for more gift ideas coming up!

1. For the Hostess with the Most-est

For festive, holiday ready glasses, check out Karin’s tutorial ‘Sharpie Paint Pens: Christmas Glasses’ from Heart Love Always!

2. For the Fashionista

Perfect for any make-up lover or glamour girl – just add a cute tag and a gorgeous shade of nail polish! Head over to Tater Tots and Jello for the free printable template!

3. For the Wine Lover

Spread vino-approved holiday cheer with this gift tag DIY from ’23 Christmas Gift Ideas, Consider These To Make Unique Gifts’ from I Do Myself (wine not included)! All you need is a bottle of wine, some ribbon, and a personalized gift tag (easy to create with a Sharpie marker, cardstock, and a single hole punch).

4. For the Child At Heart

The Partiologist’s ‘Disney Themed Christmas Cookies’ are the perfect gift for any Disney fan! Click here for the recipe!

5. For the Little Ones

Are your kiddos fans of Spiderman, Batman, and Superman? Head over to Ginger Snap Crafts for the ‘No Sew Super Hero Cape & Mask {tutorial}’ – an easy no-sew cape for your little superhero!

6. For the Girl Who’s Always Cold

Knit (or buy!) the perfect scarf and keep your friends and family toasty and warm this holiday season! If you’re a seasoned knitter, head over to All About Ami for the ‘Puff Stitch Cowl’ tutorial. Looking for a gift that’s already made? Check out Etsy for handmade scarves from crafty artists in deep blue, light gray, and mustard yellow!

7. For the Father of the Year

Head over to Etsy for this $18 mug from artRUSS or make one of your own with an inside joke, sharpie, and coffee mug!

8. For the Friend Who Loves Anthropologie

Surprise your friends with these DIY mugs that only look expensive! The water marble design video tutorial from What’s Up Moms is quick and easy and perfect for the friend who has everything!

Happy DIY-ing!

{This post is not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the brands or businesses mentioned in this post.}

If you’ve ever looked at Kim Kardashian’s cleavage and wondered “How does she do it?” you’re not alone.  Many of us have wondered how we can take our cleavage to the next level, whether it’s for girl’s night, date night, or that high school reunion that’s coming up.  The good news is you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars or buy expensive creams or lotions to get the same effect.  Makeup has been used for centuries to highlight, sculpt, and define, so it’s the perfect medium for creating believable cleavage with a cleavage contour tutorial.

Whether you’re looking for a way to (visually) boost what your mama gave you or define and sculpt your cleavage, we’ve got you covered.  Also, while a push-up or plunge bra isn’t required, it can help with achieving more cleavage.  Below, the best tips, according to 3 top beauty bloggers, for creating Kim Kardashian level cleavage.

Beauty Blogger Huda Kattan (Huda Beauty) uses shadowing to contour and sculpt her chest.  Her tools include a dark brown pencil (for shadowing), a lighter-than-her-skin-tone concealer (for highlighting), and a blending brush (to blend everything seamlessly together).  She reminds us to contour for the right reasons (do it only if it makes you happy) and the results from her contouring are pretty impressive.  Huda uses beauty products from Sephora, but the same look could probably be achieved with budget-friendly makeup from the drugstore!

Makeup artist Promise Phan (dupe2111) contours her chest and neck and creates defined cleavage with a contour stick, concealer stick, foundation brush, flat top brush, powder foundation, and highlighter.  She breaks her tutorial down into several steps to create a clear and simple process.  The entire tutorial takes less than 5 minutes!

If you’re looking for a quick and easy option, Katie Yancu (Katie Yancu) defines and highlights her décolletage in under 3 minutes. The result? Naturally looking cleavage with no chicken cutlets or fashion tape required!

What’s our best kept secret? A plunge or push-up bra can help with creating extra cleavage.  We recommend putting on your favorite bra before contouring.  Our favorites: Jeanie Plunge bra (30D-40G, 42D-44FF), Casey Plunge Bra (30D-40G, 42D-44FF), and Allison Super Push-Up Bra (30B-38D).

Videos: Huda Kattan, Promise Phan, Katie Yancu

Do you contour your cleavage? Tell us in the comments below!

Featured image via Got Celeb

{Editor’s Note: This post is not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the women, brands, or businesses mentioned in this post.}

Some women have impressive collections of art, shoes, handbags, or dresses. I was never a shoe girl or a handbag girl, I never dreamed of fancy dresses or designer coats. Makeup, on the other hand, was a different story.

I’m a firm believer that the right shade of lipstick can change your life.

I remember some of my earliest purchases as being makeup-related. I spent Saturdays scouring magazines like InStyle, Lucky, Glamour, and Vogue. I diligently earmarked pages and saved my pennies for the lipstick du jour. I planned trips to Nordstrom and Sephora and worshipped at the altar of Hollywood’s most glamourous: Nicole Kidman, Christina Hendricks, Kate Winslet, and Gwen Stefani. Women who took their style notes from Old Hollywood glamour and the icons of bygone eras.

Women who, with a swipe of crimson, a flick of eyeliner, and a touch of mascara, could command a room without sacrificing any of their femininity.

These are the women I looked to for fashion tips and still do to this day.

These modern day icons made glamour, in all of its artificial yet mysterious finesse, seem so much more accessible to a girl with champagne taste on a beer budget (me). I learned that you don’t have to spend a fortune on makeup because high quality inexpensive makeup truly does exist (thank you splurge vs. save columns!). Through them, I also learned that the right shade of lipstick can brighten your face and your day and that makeup is designed as a tool to compliment your own unique beauty, not mask or hide what you might consider flaws.

Without a doubt, I learned that embracing your imperfections can make you even more beautiful.

Just look at Marilyn Monroe. She was frequently photographed in bold pink and red shades of lipstick. Her style was both fearless and effortless. Most importantly, she embraced her unique imperfections and became one of the most-recognized icons of the 20th century.

Source: 50-Best

 Featured Image via Pexels

{Editor’s Note: This post is not sponsored by or affiliated with any of the brands or businesses mentioned in this post.}