It’s not a secret that we love bralettes – and fashionista-approved InStyle does too. InStyle is the first place we go when we’re looking for outfit inspiration, so it makes sense that they would be-in-the-know about the best lingerie, too.

In a recent article, “The 25 Best Bralettes for Every Occasion (and Nearly Every Cup Size)”, author Tanisha Pina shares the best bralettes for a well-rounded wardrobe. With the weather heating up by the day, the article couldn’t come at a better time.

Dalis Bralette in Bare

In addition to being one of the most versatile and comfortable bra styles, bralettes are a summertime essential. They come in a variety of styles – from longline to bandeau and strapless to halter – and their fabric selection is unmatched. When it comes to fabrics, breathable modal is a soft and easy choice, while light, airy lace creates the perfect foundation for any outfit.

Bralettes are a natural choice for almost any occasion. The wireless cups (sometimes with removable padding, sometimes without) and bust seams provide lightweight support and shaping without any bulk. Many bralettes feature lace details, embellished straps, and boning to keep the bralette in place – proving that the styling options are truly endless. Additionally, bralettes are a perfect fit for any cup size or any band size – with AA to N cup sizes, 26 to 56 band sizes, and beyond – including petite, plus, and full-busts too.

Dalis Bralette in Bare

Thank you to InStyle and Tanisha Pina for featuring our Dalis Bralette (in breathable, comfortable modal, of course!) in your round-up of the top 25 bralettes for every cup size!

Bra fittings play an important role in bra shopping. In fact, they’re so important that we can’t imagine shopping for bras without getting a fitting first. After all, the whole point of a bra fitting is to help you find bras that fit – and we can’t think of a better way to do accomplish that than with a lingerie expert. Trust us, the search for comfortable, supportive bras is worth it because once you find a bra you like, it feels like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders (literally and figuratively).

We’re firm believers in the power of bra fitting, so we’ve made it our mission to help women find bras that fit through our blog and partnerships with local lingerie boutiques. Oprah Magazine is passionate about bra fit too. In their recent article, “How To Measure Your Bra Size – And Finally Find The Right Fit” author Celia Fernandez and fit expert Frederika Zappe reminisce about Oprah’s kick off of the “Bra Revolution” in 2005 before diving into the essentials of bra fitting from the comfort of your couch. They start with a bra fitting guide on measuring your cup size, band size, and bust size and then share the before and after pictures of women who’ve just had bra fittings.

Even if you’ve never had a bra fitting before, you’ll likely relate to the struggle of finding a bra that fits. And when you check out the after photos, you’ll see just how life-changing a fitting can be. The bra fittings truly make you question bra sizing and what a proper-fitting bra looks like, especially if you’ve never been happy with your bras.

Thank you to Oprah Magazine and Celia Fernandez for featuring our Charlotte Padded Bra and to Musa, who looks supported, comfortable, and chic. We are so happy that you were able to find a bra that fits you perfectly!

Check out the article here for the full scoop and be sure to visit a local lingerie boutique for your very own bra fitting.

Featured image lingerie:

Charlotte Padded Bra in Red/Black

When was the last time you bought new bras? Six months ago? Or maybe a year or more? If it has been six months or longer since your last bra fitting, there’s a chance your bras may not be fitting you as well as they should. Bras don’t last forever – over time bras lose their shape, stretch, and support with wear. Even with proper care, you’ll likely have to replace them every 8-12 months depending on how often you wear them and whether you wear the same bra every day.

In the spirit of spring cleaning (and in preparation for the warm weather ahead), we can’t think of a better time to head out into the sunshine and make a day of shopping. Spring is one of the best seasons to shop for new lingerie as many lingerie brands design for two fashion seasons each year (spring and fall). So now is the time to pick up a few new pieces for your lingerie wardrobe or replace your tried-and-true favorites that are hanging on by a thread.

Here are the best places to go bra shopping:

Your local lingerie boutique

Your local lingerie shop is a treasure trove for bra shopping. The one-stop-shop will ensure that you’re supported and comfortable from head to toe. Most lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings, so you can be certain you’re taking home bras that fit you perfectly. The bra fit specialists at lingerie boutiques are size and product experts – and they’re happy to help you shop for new lingerie. Lingerie boutiques are also an excellent alternative to Victoria’s Secret. Though the sizes carried differ from store to store, many lingerie boutiques stock a wide variety of sizes that can include anywhere from AA to N (or larger) cup sizes and 26 to 52 band sizes. If you’ve struggled with finding bras in your size and want to try on the bras before you buy them, your local lingerie boutique is one of your best bets.

Related: Bra Shopping Guide: Tips For Buying New Bras

A favorite department store

Did you know that retailers like Nordstrom and Lord & Taylor offer bra fittings? It’s true. You might think of these two stores when you’re shopping for shoes or an outfit for a special occasion, but the knowledgeable lingerie experts at these stores can help you shop for the perfect bra, too. Nordstrom’s legendary sales and Nordstrom Rack stores are favored among fashionistas on a budget – making it possible to get high-quality, on-trend lingerie for a fraction of the retail price. Other retailers like Kohl’s and Macy’s are also stellar places to shop for supportive bras on a budget.

Online, of course!

Who doesn’t love a little retail therapy? If you prefer shopping from the comfort of your home or don’t live near a lingerie boutique, you can’t beat the convenience and selection found online. You can find almost any size or brand online and many retailers offer discount codes or promotions to entice you to shop with them. Some of our favorite lingerie boutiques have online stores, so you can support small businesses and feel good about your purchases, too.

Related: How To Buy Lingerie Online

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for your wedding day, 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!

Tired of lugging a suitcase through the airport? We don’t blame you. With the ever-increasing cost of checked bags, now is the time to pack light and save that money for the well-deserved vacation you’re flying to.

If you’re a serial over-packer, packing everything into a carry-on bag might seem like a near impossible task. But when you’re only packing the essentials, you’ll make it a lot easier on your back – and your wallet. Think about it for a moment: Why pack 10 bras when you really only need 2 or 3 bras for your trip? Our goal is to simplify things here, not make them more stressful.

Ready to get packing? Here’s how to pack your lingerie in a carry-on bag:

1.  Pack light

You chose a carry-on because you didn’t want to deal with baggage check, right? Since carry-on bags are all about packing the necessities, avoid throwing everything into your luggage at once. Before you start packing, make a list of the outfits you’re planning on wearing – and then make a second list with the undergarments you’ll need for those outfits. It might seem like a lot of work, but it’ll be worth it when you get to your destination and realize that your outfits are already all planned out.

2.  Make a list

You may be able to fit in a few special pieces here and there (especially if you’re packing for your honeymoon or a special getaway), but you can typically get away with 2-3 bras, 7-8 pairs of underwear (1 pair per day + a few extra pairs just in case you need them), a chemise and robe set or a favorite pair of pajamas.

A tried and true rule: Think practical and only pack what you love/what fits you well. For bras, think versatile styles that you can get a lot of wear out of. A multi-way bra that can be worn strapless, halter, racerback, regular, and one shoulder will help you get the most mileage out of your wardrobe – and save space in your suitcase.

Of course, everyone’s list will be different, so check the weather forecast and itinerary, decide ahead of time what you want to bring, and pack accordingly.

Related: Travel Essentials: 6 Key Lingerie Items To Take With You

3.  Roll up your undies, bralettes, and chemises

Rolling is often the best option when packing a carry-on bag – and it applies to most of your lingerie too. Less structured, wireless undergarments like underwear, bralettes, chemises, and slips can be neatly rolled up to conserve space.

4.  Stuff your moulded bra cups with socks or underwear

Moulded bras are the most susceptible to damage from poor packing. Stuff you molded bra cups with socks or underwear (anything you’re not worried about wrinkling) to help them keep their shape and make sure they’re the last thing you add to your suitcase. Avoid folding them in half as it can crush the cups and leave dents and creases in the fabric and bend the bra out of shape. On the other hand, cut-and-sew bras can be folded in half to save extra space.

Another option: If you have the space, you could also pack them in a padded bra organizer for extra protection.

5.  Throw a cozy pair of socks into your purse

Airplanes can be notoriously cold, so it’s best to pack warm for the decrease in temps. If you’re putting your carry-on bag in the overhead bin, be sure to throw a pair of soft socks into your purse. Also, don’t forget to pack an extra pair of undies too if Aunt Flo is visiting. You can never be too prepared!

Related: Lingerie Accessories 101: Here’s What Every Woman Should Know

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for your wedding day, 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!

Plunge bras are one of the most challenging bra styles to fit. If your breast shape is full on bottom, you’ve probably experienced the ‘quad boob’ effect in most of the plunge bras you’ve tried on – with breast tissue spilling out above the center gore. Full busted people also have a difficult time finding a supportive plunge bra. On another note, plunge bras can provide the perfect amount of separation for close set breasts. Additionally, those of us with wide set breasts can benefit from a design that pushes breast tissue toward the center, too.

Before you give up your search for a plunge bra that checks off all the boxes, check out our guide below. We may be able to help solve your fit problem and point you toward the right plunge bra for your breast shape.

1.  There is extra space at the top of the cups

Plunge bras are designed with a low center gore (the part of the bra connected to the band that joins the cups in the front). This design detail makes it possible to get lifted, centered, and separated breasts without any push-up padding. If your breast tissue is full on bottom or pendulous, finding a plunge bra that doesn’t gap at the top of the cups can be tricky.

You may find that the bra fits well overall with the exception of the top of the cups. Slight gapping may be fixed by tightening the bra straps – just be sure the bra band stays in place and you can fit two fingers comfortably between your skin and the strap. On another note, if 1/4 to 1/3 of the cup is empty, a push-up plunge bra or demi bra with a low center gore may be a better choice for your breast shape.

2.  Your breast tissue is spilling out of the center

Does your breast tissue spill out of the center of your plunge bra after you do the scoop and swoop? That bra might not be the right style or brand for you. Ideally, a plunge bra’s cups should completely contain breast tissue with no spillage.

Full on bottom breast shapes and breasts with lots of soft tissue can struggle with this common fit issue. A solution: Look for a plunge bra with a taller center gore and plunging cups, like the Vanna Plunge Padded Bra. Another solution: Try a balconette bra, which will give you a sexy, lifted look without any spillage.

Related: Is Your Bra Too Small?

Vanna Plunge Padded Bra | Vanna Hipster in Black/Gray

3.  The center gore is pulling away from your sternum

If you have full, round breasts or augmented breasts, you probably struggle with finding bras that tack (or lay flat) against your sternum. Ideally, a bra’s center gore should lay flat against the sternum and the band should fit comfortably snug and parallel to the floor.

In some cases, especially when your breast tissue is full, getting the bra to tack can be near impossible. With augmented breasts, a short center gore typically works better than a tall center gore (commonly found in full coverage bras). Styles like the Emma Plunge Molded Bra and Jeanie Plunge Molded Bra might be worth checking out.

4.  Your bust looks saggy instead of lifted

Interested in a more lifted look? Try a push-up plunge bra. Most plunge bras have light padding within their molded cups to give them a more rounded shape.

Push-up plunge bras, on the other hand, have graduated padding (that may or may not be removable) along the bottom and sides of the inner cups to lift breast tissue up. Push-up plunge bras can even out asymmetrical breasts (look for bras with removable pads) and lift full on top breasts, too.

Final considerations

Lingerie designers are always looking for new ways to address fit issues and innovate in the lingerie space. Whether you’re looking for a seamless plunge bra with light lift for every day or a plunge bra with maximum cleavage for a date night, day of shopping, or girl’s night out, there’s a plunge bra out there for you. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding a plunge bra that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and supported.

Related: Bra Shopping Guide: Tips For Buying New Bras

Vanna Plunge Padded Bra | Vanna Hipster in Black/Gray

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:

Vanna Plunge Padded Bra | Vanna Hipster in Bare/Ivory

Wedding dress shopping is one of the most stressful and emotional aspects of planning a wedding. Once you’ve found the dress of your dreams, it will likely need at least one round of alterations before you can wear it on your big day. And if you don’t see yourself wearing a dress while saying “I Do” to your love, the right foundations are key for jumpsuits, separates, and pantsuits, too.

In this article, we’ll be answering the age-old question: Should you bring your bridal lingerie to your wedding dress fittings? But don’t worry, this guide applies to an assortment of wedding outfits – not just dresses.

Here’s what to bring to your next fitting:

A bra that fits you perfectly

A fitting is another dress rehearsal before the big event. In a fitting, you’ll work with a tailor on getting the fit exactly how you want it. The tailor may suggest taking in the bust or letting out the waist, so you’ll want to make sure you bring the right undergarments for the outfit. Since you already know the neckline and strap design of your wedding attire, all you’ll need to do is match it with the right undergarments.

Strapless bras work well under most one-shoulder, halter, and strapless wedding dresses and tops. Pair a supportive molded bra with long sleeve, sleeveless, and short sleeve dresses – in most cases, the sleeve and neckline design will hide the straps. Opt for an adhesive bra if your bra has a low back or plunging neckline.

Longline bras are a common choice for bridal lingerie. Brides choose them because they provide ample support, nip in the waist, and create a smooth line under clothing. A longline bra is an alternative to a corset and it’s a perfect match for brides who love a vintage look. While a longline bra won’t give you the same waist reduction as a corset, it will still create more of an hourglass figure – and be a more comfortable option for dancing, drinks, and mingling with guests.

Of course, if you’re full-busted and fall in love with a dress that you can’t wear a bra with, don’t put the dress back on the rack just yet. If it has a structured bodice, you may still be able to get the support you need without an underwire bra. A fitted bodice combined with an adhesive bra or sewn-in bra cups can provide plenty of support for full busts.

Related: Bridal Bras 101: Tips On Finding The Perfect Bra For Your Wedding Day

Elissa Strapless Bra in Nude, Pearl White, Black

Seamless or shaping briefs

It’s not a surprise that the underwear or shapewear you choose can be just as important as the bra. No one wants a VPL (visible panty line) in their wedding pictures. So, whether the outfit is fitted or full, you’ll want to select the right panty style ahead of time (and bring a few options with you just in case).

For a seamless fit (no VPL), opt for a seamless panty in a smooth fabric like microfiber with flat seams. A laser cut waistband and set design is key here – both will lay as flat as possible against your skin for an almost invisible look.

Let’s talk shapewear. Shapewear is another popular option for wedding outfit undergarments. A shaping brief or short can nip in the waist and smooth out curves – creating a smooth silhouette under clothing. Shapewear is also available in a range of designs and fabrics – making it possible to find a lightweight control panty or maximum control short with a snug, supportive fit. It just depends on what you’re looking for (and willing to put up with!)

With full skirts, you’re less limited when it comes to panty styles, so pick a style that speaks to you. You could opt for traditional ivory, a favorite color, or something blue. Since you don’t have to worry about a visible panty line here, a ruffled boyshort or lacy brief may even be your top pick!

Other considerations

When it comes to a fitting, it’s best to be prepared. This applies if you’re still wedding dress shopping too: Pack a reusable tote with a few bra and panty options, bring shapewear if you think you might wear it, throw in some fashion tape (just in case), and add in a bottle of water and a snack or two (fittings are awful when you’re hungry!) Lastly, give yourself plenty of time for the fitting, be kind to yourself, and remember that while dress shopping may be stressful, the most important part of the day involves making memories and celebrating with the people you love.

Related: Honeymoon Lingerie: How To Choose The Right Set

Elissa Low Back Bustier in Pearl White

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for your wedding day, 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:

Elissa Low Back Bustier in Nude

Yesterday, I was reading a piece by talented lingerie fit expert Kimmay Caldwell over at LiveAbout and it got me thinking. We talk a lot about brands and their size ranges – most specifically, why some brands carry a limited number of sizes, while others design for a wide range of sizes – and often the reasoning behind why a lingerie brand waits to expand or never expands their sizing isn’t as simple as you might think.

As someone who regularly sees the behind-the-scenes of the lingerie industry, I think it’s important to acknowledge that there a lot of factors that can delay a brand from launching a new line or expanding their current product offerings or size range.

While that may give you some peace of mind, you might still find that the brand you like doesn’t sell lingerie in your size – and for some people this is unfortunately very common. You’re definitely not alone if you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why don’t they make this [insert item here] in my size?”

Here’s one possible reason that you might not even realize: cost.

Cost is often one of the biggest factors – and a major reason why some brands never go beyond their core sizes or styles.

This is what I’ve learned

Producing new patterns, hiring new fit models, and purchasing new materials is expensive for any lingerie brand. Newer, independent lingerie brands may choose to start out with a small, core product launch and expand their line over time. Larger, more established lingerie brands may be nervous to take the leap into a new-to-them market, such as plus size lingerie or full bust lingerie, when they know very little about the market they’re considering going into (market research can only do so much). They have to get funding from somewhere to expand their product offerings and they might be hesitant to pull it from a successful line and invest it into a new one.

This may explain why a few brands have delayed expanding their sizing, but when you see a big lingerie brand like Victoria’s Secret (who had $7.4 billion in net sales on their own in 2017) decline to expand their sizing, you start to wonder why a lingerie brand would avoid growing with the market if cost wasn’t a factor.

Full disclosure: I used to shop at Victoria’s Secret.

But then I gained 30 pounds and my bra size changed. I went from wearing a DD to DDDD/G – and suddenly I was sized out of options. It’s not a secret that Victoria’s Secret bras only go up to a DDD. My local Victoria’s Secret had such a small selection of DDDs in store that I had to start shopping elsewhere for bras. And you know what? I was better off in doing so.

The power of change

For a long time, Victoria’s Secret dominated the lingerie market share. Full-busted people waited patiently year after year for Victoria’s Secret to expand their sizing beyond DDD cups, but that still hasn’t happened. Sure, it might change one day, but for now, they are struggling to stay relevant.

Fortunately for consumers, the demand outweighs the supply and there are new lingerie brands launching every year with the intent of filling those gaps in the market.

Lingerie brands like The Little Bra Company, ThirdLove, Torrid, Knix, Playful Promises, Aerie, Parfait, Savage x Fenty, and many others have stepped up to meet the demand and, in doing so, proved that there are other alternatives to Victoria’s Secret out there.

Related: How To Stay Body Positive While Bra Shopping

Serving a niche

It can be a good thing for a lingerie brand to exist in its own niche – especially when it’s empowering and serving the needs of its customers. For example, socially-conscious intimate apparel line TomboyX launched with the intent to create “underwear that any body could feel comfortable in, regardless of where they fell on the size or gender spectrum.” Their genderless line focuses on fit, function, and comfort with a healthy dose of style mixed in. Plus, their comfy bralettes and briefs are available in sizes XS-4X – an impressive size range from a company with a heart of gold. Compared to glamourous, vintage-inspired inclusive lingerie line, Playful Promises, the two brands couldn’t be more different style-wise – yet they exist perfectly in the lingerie space, proving that a lingerie brand can stay true to their customer base while serving all sizes. Victoria’s Secret might just learn a thing or two from them.

Finding a new favorite brand

Unless things change, there’s a good chance Victoria’s Secret won’t embrace the full busted or plus size markets. But that shouldn’t discourage you if you’re full busted or plus sized. There are plenty of brands out there that do design for you and want you to feel sexy, accepted, and adored. Size inclusive lingerie brands like Parfait, Playful Promises, and Curvy Kate have an array of beautiful lingerie designed to boost your confidence and release your inner goddess. Wear-anywhere lines like Knix and Origami Customs prove that a great fit and quality lingerie can go hand-in-hand. Lingerie can be whatever you want it to be. You don’t have to settle!

What’s next

Lingerie shopping should be a fun, enjoyable experience. If shopping at Victoria’s Secret makes you happy, keep shopping there. If it doesn’t, there are many other places to shop for lingerie. While you’re shopping, remember: Lingerie brands value your feedback. If you’d like to see a design or size from a lingerie brand, tell them! Leave a comment on social media, send an email, make a phone call – they’re always looking for ways to improve and better serve their customers. This also applies if you see a bra that you like that doesn’t come in the color you want or if there’s a style that would be better with a few changes. Why not reach out and let the lingerie brand know? In the meantime, take a peek at the brands I mentioned and see what the lingerie space is up to. You might just find a new favorite lingerie brand!

Related: How To Encourage Lingerie Brands To Make What You Want To Buy

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!

The lingerie industry has been having a lot of discussions lately about inclusivity and body positivity. For starters, lingerie brands are exploring how to better serve their customers in a more inclusive fashion. Then you have lingerie retailers, who are looking for new lines to bring in that speak to the needs and wants of their customers. As a result of the industry’s movement toward a more inclusive space, we’re also seeing print campaigns and social media posts with a better representation of shape, size, ethnicity, ability, and community from intimate apparel brands that celebrate diversity. Trade shows and fashion shows with panels centered around body positivity, inclusivity, and making the lingerie industry more welcoming for everyone who wears lingerie, are taking place, too. And eyes are being opened to the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry and in the world – and it’s powerful.

In a thought-provoking piece entitled New Inclusive Fashion Lingerie Brands by lingerie fit expert Kim Caldwell of Hurray Kimmay, Kim dives into inclusivity in the fashion industry. While shedding light on the current wins (and opportunities) at hand, Kim spotlights brands within the fashion industry that are making great strides toward inclusivity as a whole. We are proud to be one of the brands recognized in the lingerie space, and among great company with the other brands.

Thank you to Kim and LiveAbout for featuring us and congrats to all of the other brands featured. Together we create a more inclusive shopping experience for people around the world and prove that style doesn’t have a size.

Go check out the article here (well worth the read!) by Kim Caldwell of Hurray Kimmay and share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Lingerie Briefs recently released a stunning new editorial featuring radiant model Tricia Campbell in an array of lingerie looks fit for the season. The lingerie fashion editorial is a joyous celebration of plus size beauty and lingerie.

The editorial features stunning plus-size model Tricia Campbell with styling by Denise Caldwell, hair by Stefani Annaliese, makeup by Jas Doyle, photography and creative direction by international commercial and fashion photographer Stephanie Hynes, and illustrations by Nathen Cantwell.

As Ellen Lewis, founder of Lingerie Briefs, shares: “My opinion has always been that size is just a number and all women deserve beautiful lingerie without being categorized.” We couldn’t agree more.

Today, consumers have more choices than ever when it comes to lingerie. New lingerie brands launch each year with the intent of serving customers that are underserved, making it possible for everyone who wears lingerie to find the special pieces that enhance and celebrate their inner selves.

Thank you to Ellen and the Lingerie Briefs team for selecting our Briana Unlined Wire Bra and Briana Highwaisted Brief in Black Floral, new for Spring/Summer 2019, as one of the editorial looks.

We are proud to be a part of your editorial that celebrates body positivity and inclusivity, and dispels the notion that lingerie is “one size fits all”.

Featured image features lingerie and hosiery by (left to right) Hanky Panky, Parfait, Lise Charmel and Nylon Swish Stockings

All photography credit to Stephanie Hynes

*Check out her website and Instagram for more of her work*

View the complete editorial on the Lingerie Briefs website here.

Bra shopping involves a lot of trial and error. So, how do you know if a bra fits?

Here are a few key signs you’re wearing the right bra size:  

1.  You feel good in it

First things first, how do you feel? Does your bra give you a confidence boost or does it make you feel self conscious or uncomfortable? You can have a hundred bras in your closet, but it won’t matter if they don’t make you feel like a million bucks. If you’re not excited about your lingerie, it might be time to invest in a few new pieces. You’re more likely to wear them and get your money’s worth if you’re happy with them – which is the point right?

2.  You’re comfortable

Yes, comfortable bras do exist. You just have to figure out what is most comfortable for you. Everyone has different fit and style preferences. Some people can tolerate a snug band while others band a looser band (like their sister size). You have to do what’s best for you. Fortunately, there are a lot of bra options out there. If you hate the feeling of underwire, you have plenty of bralettes and wireless bras to choose from. Fabrics like modal, microfiber, and soft stretch lace are good choices too.

Related: How To Make A Bra Fit Better

Cora Unlined Longline Bra | Cora Bikini in Pale Blush

3.  You feel supported

If your bra isn’t supporting your bust, it’s time to make a change. One thing you might not know: the bra band plays a key role in the amount of support you’ll receive – not the cups or straps. A loose fitting band will cause your breast tissue to fall forward with gravity and the back of the bra to ride up. A band that’s too tight will leave marks on your skin and leave you sore and uncomfortable throughout the day. Both bra fit issues are constant reminders throughout the day that something is wrong with the bra you’re wearing (whether it’s a size issue, or a style issue, or something else). In most cases, they can be fixed with a bra fitting.

4.  It fits well

Without a doubt, the fit of the bra is just as important as the style and design. Here are the main three areas to check:

The cups

Your breast tissue should be completely contained within the underwire of the cups. If the cups are too small, your breast tissue will spill over and out of the cups. If the bra is too big, you’ll have extra room in the cups, so try a smaller cup size instead.

The band

The band should snug but not uncomfortable. It should also wrap around your ribcage like a hug while sitting parallel to the floor. A bra fitting golden rule: Start new bras on the loosest hook and work them over to the tightest hook with wear. Bras aren’t designed to last forever, but with proper care they can last months, if not years, depending on how you wash them and often you wear them.

The straps

You should be able to fit two fingers between your skin and the straps. If your straps are falling off your shoulders, try tightening the band first and then adjusting the straps. If your straps are leaving marks on your skin, loosen them up a little so you’re more comfortable. Remember: Your band provides 80-85% of a bra’s support – it’s the part of the bra that does the heavy lifting.

Final considerations

Bra shopping is stressful – but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re in need of new bras or simply want an expert with you when you’re bra shopping, head over to your local lingerie boutique. The bra fitters are local lingerie stores are trained to help people of all sizes shop for bras that fit. Most lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings and a wide selection of sizes, styles, and colors – all in a welcoming, judgment-free zone. Local lingerie stores are an excellent alternative to big brands like Victoria’s Secret and many stock some of the best independent lingerie lines that you might not already be familiar with.

Related: Ask A Bra Fitter: What Are Bra Fittings Like?

Charlotte Padded Bra | Charlotte High Waist Brief in Blossom Print

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:

Enora Minimizer Bra | Enora Bikini in Raspberry