Many women associate a boudoir shoot with being a bride. However, boudoir shoots are about capturing your femininity and sensuality, whether you’re a bride-to-be or not. I’ve had a bridal boudoir shoot, and I recently had non-bridal boudoir shoot four years after being married. And, I absolutely loved it.

Here’s why every woman should do a non-bridal boudoir shoot (even if you’ve already had a bridal boudoir shoot):

1.  It’s a totally different vibe.

A regular boudoir shoot has a totally different vibe than a bridal boudoir shoot. When you’re a bride-to-be, there are so many fun activities and parties to take advantage of—engagement parties, bridal showers, couple’s showers and boudoir shoots. It’s all exciting because you’re caught up in the moment of being a bride-to-be.

However, a non-bridal boudoir shoot doesn’t have all that hanging over its head. You feel excited only because you’re ready to show off your sensual self. It’s empowering.

2.  You’ve changed since your bridal boudoir shoot.

You have likely changed quite a bit since your bridal boudoir shoot. Whether it’s your personal style or the color of your hair, you don’t necessarily look the same. And, that’s a good thing because life is all about evolving. A non-bridal boudoir shoot captures that personal growth and how you are in that current moment.

3.  It’s about capturing you as a woman, not a bride.

A bridal boudoir shoot is about capturing you as a bride to be. But a regular boudoir shoot simply captures you as a woman. As I said before, you feel like a bride in your bridal boudoir shoot. That bridal feeling takes over, but it’s not there during a regular shoot. Instead, your femininity, sensuality and personality shine for who you are as a woman, not a bride.

Related: How To Plan A Boudoir Photo Shoot

4.  You’ll have non-wedding relating boudoir looks.

Most likely your bridal boudoir shoot features a veil, veiled panties or bridal lingerie. But, wouldn’t it be awesome to have sensual photos of you not wearing wedding-themed lingerie? It’s nice to have those bridal photos, but it’s also nice to have sensual photos of you just being you—whether it’s in black lace or trench coat with nothing underneath.

5.  It’s for you.

I loved having my bridal boudoir shoot, and I had so much fun doing it. But, my main reason for doing the shoot was to be able to use the photos as a gift to my new husband. I wanted to compile them into a professionally printed book as a wedding gift.

However, I had no “bigger picture” ideas in mind for my non-bridal boudoir shoot. I just wanted to be captured as the woman I was right then.

6.  It’s a confidence booster.

I understand that the idea of any boudoir shoot can be intimidating. Wearing lingerie or little clothing in front of photographer who’s snapping photos from all angles? I get it! But, boudoir photographers don’t make a living by being bad at their jobs. They’ll get the lighting just right and capture you from all the right angles. Having professional shots of you when you feel your sexiest is quite the confidence boost.

If photos in lingerie aren’t your thing, that doesn’t mean a boudoir shoot can’t be your thing. A boudoir shoot isn’t about lingerie. It’s about capturing you feeling and looking beautiful in whatever makes you feel the sexiest.

Decided you’re ready for a boudoir shoot? Great! Now, you just have to pick the best boudoir photographer for you.

Related: What To Wear For A Boudoir Photo Shoot

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 lingerie store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Carole Unlined Wire Bra 3102 in Desert Flower

Bralettes are a comfy bra option, but they aren’t for everyone and they aren’t for every occasion. Whether a lace bralette works for you depends on what you want from your bra on any given day.

Here are six things you need to know about bralettes:

1.  Bralettes are meant to be seen.

Bralettes aren’t meant to be hidden under your clothes, though it’s okay if that’s how you prefer it. Instead, bralettes are meant to be seen and incorporated into your outfit as an accessory. How to wear lace bralettes? Let that strappy side band of your bralette show. How to style lace bralettes? Let that lace detailing on the back of your bralette show itself off.

2.  Bralettes provide a barely-there feel.

Bralettes are a great option if you want to keep your boobs in place, yet not realize you’re wearing a bra. They provide a barely-there feel while giving just enough coverage and support to keep your boobs out of your way. Because bralettes provide lightweight support and coverage, they are sometimes not loved by women with bigger boobs.

3.  Some bralettes do provide quality support.

Though bralettes aren’t known for support, some lace bralettes, like the Adriana Lace Bralette, do provide a decent amount of support. Supportive bralettes will have wider straps for maximum comfort; a wide underband for more support; and possibly joined cups in the center to keep your boobs from escaping the cups.

While this type of lace bralette can be a better fit for women with big busts, it won’t provide as much support as a regular bra.

Related: How Should A Bralette Fit?

4.  You won’t get a rounded shape from a bralette.

Bralettes don’t help mold or shape your bust. If you’re looking for an ideal, rounded shape, you’ll want to steer clear of bralettes. But, if you don’t mind—or you want—a natural fit and shape, a lace bralette is a perfect option.

5.  They’re not meant to provide full coverage.

The part of a bra that provides coverage is the lining within the cups. Most lace bralettes are unlined, which means they don’t have lining. This means that your nipples can be more exposed through your clothes. So, if you’re nervous about your nipples poking through your top, a bralette won’t be the best route to go.

6.  Bralettes come in all styles.

While most bralettes don’t provide much support or coverage, they do come in a variety of styles. There’s a bralette for every unique personality. Want a sporty look without wearing a sports bra? There’s a bralette for that. Want something sassy without wearing a push-up style bra? There’s a bralette for that. Want something a little edgy? There’s a bralette for that, too.

There’s a bralette for every woman’s taste. However, whether or not you’ll enjoy a bralette simply depends on what your personal preferences. If you are a woman with a bigger bust and are interested in a lace bralette, don’t shy away from trying one. A few extra features on the bra could make it a comfortable, suiting fit for you.

Related: How To Shop For Plus Size Bras and Bralettes

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 lingerie store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Adriana Lace Bralette P5482 in Mulberry Purple

Your bra is likely a staple to your wardrobe every day. Without thinking, you put it on each morning and remove it at night. But, how well do you know your bras? Let us help you get more acquainted with your pretty undergarments.

Here are six things you didn’t know about your bras:

1.  Your bra band plays a big role.

Did you know your bra band plays the greatest role in your bra’s fit? Without the bra band fitting snugly and remaining in place, all other parts of the bra can’t do their job.

For example, a loose bra band may lead to a poor fit with a major lack of support. If your bra straps are loose, they’ll fall off your shoulders and won’t hold your bra cups in place. Your bra band is also the part of the bra that provides the most support (since it keeps everything in place). That little bra band is pretty impressive, right?

2.  There is such a thing as a perfect fit.

Regardless of how many ill-fitting bras you’ve thrown out, there is a perfect-fitting bra out there for you. But there’s only one way to find it – and that’s by knowing your true bra size.

To determine your bra size, you’ll need to get a professional bra fitting at a lingerie store. The bra fitter will measure your bust to figure out the exact cup and band sizes that are right for you. So, if you’ve had no luck buying bras the trial and error method, you now know why.

3.  Bras should be handwashed.

The machine wash can damage your bras. Bras can easily get tangled or snagged on other items in the wash or the cycle itself can be rough. The best rule of thumb when laundering your bras is to handwash them.

Don’t be intimidated though – handwashing your bras isn’t as time-consuming as it may seem. Simply fill the sink with water and gentle laundry detergent, let it soak, and follow our handwashing tips here.

Related: Bra Care 101: How To Wash Bras

4.  Bras shouldn’t be thrown in the dryer.

If you want to drastically decrease your bra’s lifespan, dry it in the dryer. If you want to preserve the quality of your bra, lay it flat to dry. Laying your bra flat to dry allows the weight of the bra to be distributed evenly and keeps the straps from stretching out from poor drying techniques.

5.  You need more than one bra.

Without a doubt, you need more than one bra (we recommend having two to four everyday bras in rotation). Sweat, body oils and dead skin cells that rub off onto your bra can hurt your bra. When these products build-up, they can break down the bra’s elastic. As the elastic gets worn down and stretched, your bra no longer fits like it once did.

That’s why it’s a good rule to rotate your bras and wash your bras every few wears (unless a bra gets really dirty in one wear).

6.  You have a bra sister size.

If you’re bra shopping and the bra you’re trying on is too tight or loose in the band but the cup is perfect, try on your bra sister size. Your bra sister size is a cup size down and a band size up – or vice versa (one cup size up and one band size down) – than your normal bra size. The difference typically results in the same volume in the cup area, allowing the bra sister size to fit just right. A bra size chart can help you find your bra sister size. Skip the converting and check out our helpful bra size chart here for your bra sister sizes.

Your bra is an interesting garment that is intricately made. We hope you learned something to help you preserve your bra’s quality and find the best fit!

Related: Find Your Bra Sister Size With Our Simple Chart

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:

Marion Unlined Wire Bra P5392 in Pink Parfait

It can be tough finding bras that you love and that truly fit. When you do find one the one, you want to wear it every day because you love it that much. However, wearing the same bra every day comes with many downfalls.

Here are six reasons why you shouldn’t wear the same bra every day (even if it is your favorite):

1.  Your bra gets really dirty.

Your bra gets a little dirty every time you wear it, and by the third wear or so, it’s begging to be washed. Sweat, body oils and dead skin cells rub off onto your bra as you wear it. Wearing the bra every day means the particles will build up quickly on the bra. As particles build-up, they break down your bra’s fabric and elastic. However, rotating your bras every day allows each bra to get worn equally without one bra getting too dirty too quickly.

2.  It can irritate your skin.

All that sweat, oil and dead skin creates bacteria that can irritate your skin. Exposing your skin to that bacteria may cause acne in the areas your bra touches. It’s also possible that wearing the bra daily means it won’t fully dry from the previous wear. Wearing the same bra from the day before that’s still a little sweaty may chafe your skin.

3.  It will stretch out quickly.

Each time you wear your bra, it stretches to fit your body snugly. Your bra needs at least 24 hours between wears to retain its original shape. However, wearing the bra again the next day means it won’t have time to shrink back and will remain slightly stretched. This will force the bra to stretch out much more quickly than normal, no longer providing the support or comfort it once did.

Related: Here’s How To Put On A Bra Without Stretching The Band

4.  You won’t be able to launder it properly.

Your bra should be washed every three wears, unless it gets really dirty in one wear. And, it’s best to have a few bras in rotation so the bras don’t get over-washed. Washing one bra diligently every few wears may keep it clean, but it doesn’t help it maintain a like-new condition. Washing the bra too often will wear it out quickly.

On the other hand, you may only wash your bra once a week because you wear it each day. This doesn’t allow you to cleanse it from those particles that can harm your skin and your bra’s quality.

5.  Stains may be more difficult to remove.

As your bra gets dirty, you’ll notice it also looks dirty. That discoloration typically fades after you launder the bra. However, wearing the bra each day allows the stains to seep into the fabrics. This can create permanent stains in the bra. It may seem cosmetic, but stains also mean that sweat and oils could be permanently damaging your bra’s elastic and fit.

6.  You’ll have to buy new bras sooner.

Wearing the same bra every day undoubtedly ages the bra. Whether your bra no longer fits like it did or is showing signs of wear and tear, you’ll have to buy new bras sooner. However, having a few bras on-hand means you won’t wear them out prematurely, saving you money down the road.

If you’re someone who’s been wearing the same bra each day, stop! Head to your local lingerie store for a bra fitting and find a couple more go-to bras for every day use.

Related: Bra Shopping Guide: Tips For Buying New 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:

Elissa Strapless Bra P5011 in Pearl White

Loving how you look and feel in lingerie is the trick to loving your lingerie. But, lingerie shopping and even wearing beautiful lingerie can be a bit intimidating. Want to feel ultra-confident the next time you’re lingerie shopping or slipping into lingerie at home? Read on!

Here are five tips to make you feel super confident in lingerie:

1.  Get a bra fitting

Getting a bra fitting is the first and most essential step to feeling your best in lingerie. At a lingerie fitting, a professional bra fitter will measure your bust to determine the appropriate bra cup and band size for you. This is necessary information if you’re interested in lingerie that uses bra sizing. However, a lingerie fitting will also help the bra fitter determine which size is best for you if the lingerie comes in conventional sizing, like small, medium and large.

Being just one size off in your lingerie can make a big difference in how it fits you and how you feel in it. Always get a fitting when buying new lingerie, and you’ll feel like a queen in your lingerie.

2.  Choose lingerie you love

You’ll only be confident in lingerie you love. So, it’s important to pick out lingerie that you think accentuates your best features and makes you feel beautiful. If you’re shopping for new lingerie, take your time. Browse different lingerie styles after your fitting and try on a variety of options.

It’s okay if it’s a style of lingerie you’re always drawn to. (It’s better to be confident in something simple than insecure in something out of your comfort zone.) You can experiment with more lingerie styles as your comfort level increases.

Related: How To Define Your Lingerie Style

3.  Stop having negative thoughts about yourself

One negative thought about yourself will multiply. So, don’t think negatively about yourself in lingerie. Only have positive thoughts about yourself and your body. Think of why you like the lingerie and the way it flatters you. Let those positive aspects stay top of mind, overshadowing negativity.

Maybe your negative thoughts stem from being nervous about wearing your lingerie in front of your partner. I get it – being exposed can be nerve-wracking. But, your partner doesn’t see you in the same light as you see yourself. Your much harsher. I guarantee your partner’s not noticing any imperfections or flaws when you’re in lingerie. Instead, they’re thinking about how your beauty, confidence and femininity shine while wearing it. So, push any negative thoughts of your mind and only lift yourself up.

4.  Channel your sensuality

Lingerie isn’t meant to make you feel insecure. It’s meant to make you feel sultry and feminine. Allow yourself to feel those things and embrace them. It’s okay to love the way you look in your lingerie and to love how wearing it makes you feel. In fact, you should!

5.  Remember that all bodies are beautiful

The perfect body image doesn’t exist because it’s subjective. Everyone has a different opinion. Don’t get in your head about things you wish you could change. Embrace your body – imperfections and all (because everyone has them!) – and you’ll immediately feel more confident.

Boosting your confidence in your lingerie is all about having an uplifting mindset and finding lingerie that you love and fits well. When you choose lingerie that’s your size and makes you feel good, and you only allow yourself to feel beautiful, you’ll feel your best every time you wear it.

Related: What Is A #PerfectFigure?

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:

Sandrine Unlined Wire Bra P5352 in Cameo Rose

As summer temperatures begin to fall, wardrobes begin to transition. And, that means you’ll soon be moving your swimsuits out and your sweaters in. But, don’t just toss your swimsuits in a box that will live in the basement for the next six months. Take a few extra steps to keep your suits looking fresh and clean for next season.

Here’s the best way to store your swimsuits in the fall and winter:

Wash them properly

Wash your swimsuits before you put them away for the off season. This removes any chlorine or sunscreen from that could fade the material. Washing your suits also removes sweat, body oils, etc. that rub onto the suits each time you wear them. It’s natural for your swimsuits to be exposed to sweat, but extended exposure can be damaging to the suit.

How to wash swimsuits

The best way to wash your swimsuits is by hand in the sink. You can fill the sink with water and delicate detergent, then allow the suits to soak. After letting the suit soak, rinse it to remove the laundry detergent.

If you must use a washing machine, insert your swimsuit into a lingerie mesh bag before tossing it into the wash. This prevents the suit from getting tangled or snagged on other items. You’ll also want to use a gentle laundry detergent and set the washer on the gentlest cycle.

Use a towel to absorb excess water

After washing your swimsuit, place it on a towel and use another towel to absorb the extra water. Simply press the towel onto the suit to rid it of excess water from the wash. Never wring your swimsuits out after washing them or you risk stretching and harming the elastic.

Related: Top 5 Tips For Making Your Swimsuits Last

Let them air-dry

Don’t dry your swimsuits (or lingerie) in your machine dryer. Instead, let your swimsuits air-dry on a surface. This allows the swimsuit to dry evenly so it retains its shape. Hanging the swimsuit to dry – whether by its straps or draping it over a hanger – will stretch the suit. The water makes your swimsuit heavier, which will stretch the material and elastic as it hangs to dry.

The same goes for bikini bottoms. Hanging swimsuit bottoms, such as with a pants hanger, to dry expands the waistband of the suit. Laying your suits flat to dry ensures they’ll fit snugly and properly next summer.

Don’t store them in bags.

I bet where you store your swimsuits doesn’t seem too significant. As long as they’re closed up in a box, what’s the harm? Right? Nope! Your swimsuits should be stored a climate-controlled area, like your bedroom or a ventilated closet. This means attics, basements or non-ventilated closets are off limits.

It’s also important to never store your swimsuits in a plastic bag, even if you are storing them in your room. The plastic bag is susceptible to trapping moisture, which could harm the swimsuit’s fabric. Instead, enclose them in a in fabric garment bag to keep moisture out.

Remember

Good swimsuits don’t come cheap. And swimsuit styles can stay in-style for years. So, why not take some precautions to keep your suits looking their best and fitting you perfectly as long as possible? Proper laundering and storing – both in season and in the off-season – can extend your suit’s shelf life for years.

Related: 7 Things To Look For In The Perfect Swimsuit

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 swimsuit:

MOD By Parfait Flair One Piece Swimsuit S8006 in Black (this cute swimsuit is from our sister line, MOD By Parfait!)

Laundering your bras usually falls at the bottom of your priority list. I get it – it doesn’t seem like your bras get that dirty. You’re not spilling red wine or spaghetti sauce on them. Spoiler alert, your bras do get really dirty. And, washing your bras often has many benefits.

Here are four reasons why you should wash your bras often:

1.  It may help prevent skin irritation.

Your bra collects dead skin cells, sweat and body oils every time you wear it. As these products build up on your bra, the bra can irritate your skin simply by rubbing against it.

You may notice breakouts on your shoulders under your straps, on your boobs under your cups or on your back beneath your bra band. Washing your bras often cleanses your bras of bacteria and harmful elements to keep your skin clear beneath your bra.

2.  It can decrease the chance of a permanent stain.

You’ve likely noticed that your bra still looks dirty after you wash it. That’s because the sweat and body oils seep into the bra’s material and create a permanent stain. Washing bras promptly helps rid the bras of stains and decreases the chances of permanent stains.

3.  Bras get dirty.

Let’s face it – your bras get really dirty. Just because you don’t see signs of dirt on your bra doesn’t mean it’s not there. It’s essential to launder your bras to wash off all that dirt, oil and sweat. (Gross, right? That’s why you must wash them!)

4.  It can extend the bra’s lifespan.

The harmful products that your bra picks up from your skin breaks down the bra’s materials overtime. The elastic can become stretched, forcing the bra to lose its original, snug fit. And, the bra’s like-new appearance will fade from stains and stretching. However, you can extend the bra’s lifespan by washing it often, which allows you to wear it longer and save you money.

The reasons why you should wash your bras often comes down to just how dirty they get from each wear. Every time you wear a bra, it stretches and gets exposed to harmful products that can diminish its quality.

Related: Is Your Bra Causing Breakouts? Here’s How To Prevent Them

So, when should you wash your bras? Read on!

How often should you wash your bras?

It’s a good rule of thumb to wash your bras about every three wears. (Read more about the best way to wash bras here.) Wearing a bra just one time doesn’t necessarily make it dirty enough to need laundering. So, washing every three wears ensures you don’t over-wash your bras. The exception to this rule depends on how dirty your bra got in a single wear. If you sweat much more than usual during one wear, you’d want to wash it before wearing it again.

It helps to have three to four go-to bras in rotation, so you can promptly wash your bras. You should also not wear the same bra for three days in a row. Your bra stretches to fit your body each time you wear it. Rotating your bras allows each one to revert to its original fit to avoid permanent stretching.

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:

Elissa Strapless Bra P5011 | Elissa Bikini P5013 in Black

A new bra feels like a luxury, so of course, you want to take care of it. Proper laundering plays a big role in maintaining the bra’s good quality. Washing it promptly also keeps it clean, ridding it of particles that could cause your skin to break out.

So, how many times per week should you wash the bra? There’s actually no magic weekly number. How often you wash your bra depends on a couple of things.

Factors that determine how often you wash your bra

There’s not one set number for how many times every woman should wash her bras each week. That number will vary woman to woman depending on her personal use of the bra. Here are two factors that determine how often you need to wash your bra:

How many times you’ve worn it

It’s essential that you are conscious of how many times you wear a bra between washes. Every time you wear a bra, sweat and body oils rub off onto it. These particles will start to show up on the bra visually, making it look dirty. But the real harm is what the sweat and oils do to the bra’s material. Over time, these elements will break down the bra’s fabrics and elasticity, prohibiting the bra from being in tip-top condition to provide full support and comfort.

Wearing a bra too many times between washes can also irritate your skin. The build-up of sweat and oils on the bra’s surface can chafe, break out or create a rash on your skin. So, it’s a good rule of thumb to wash your bras about every three wears.

Related: 4 Reasons Why You Should Have More Than One Bra

How dirty the bra is

There are times when you need to wash your bras more than every few wears. If your bra got really dirty during one wear, you won’t want to wear it again before washing it.

For example, wearing a bra to the office for a full day means you won’t get much sweat, if any, on the bra. However, wearing the bra while doing yard work would expose the bra to excess sweat and possibly some dirt. Essentially, your bra got dirtier in that one day of yard work than it would have during three days in the office. In this case, you’d want to wash the bra after doing the yard work, so it’s back to its original clean by your next wear.

It’s best to have three to four go-to bras for every day use. Having multiple bras in your rotation helps you not wear a bra out too quickly. It also allows you the convenience to promptly the bras and still have others to wear.

The best way to launder bras

Now you know how often you need to wash your bras, and I bet your next question is about how to wash them. It’s best to let your bras soak in delicate detergent in the sink. Don’t wring the water out of the bra – push the water out with your hand or absorb it with a towel. Then, allow the bra to air-dry on a flat surface.

Washing machines can be harsh on your bra. However, if you must use the machine, insert the bra into a lingerie mesh bag for protection during the cycle. Never use a dryer to dry your bras. The high heat is extremely damaging to your bra and will cause the bra to show early signs of wear and tear. And, you never want to hang your bra to dry because it can stretch the bra.

Related: How Should I Dry My Bras After Washing Them?

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:

Elissa Strapless Bra P5011 | Elissa Bikini P5013 in Black

A bra that’s worn out can become uncomfortable and unflattering. But you don’t just feel that the bra is old. Your bra will show physical signs that it’s worn out.

If your bras have any of the following symptoms, it’s time to get a bra fitting and buy new.

1.  The underwire is exposed.

Exposed underwire may be painful and annoying, but it’s also a sign that your bra is tired and worn-out. Underwire should not pop out of the bra’s fabric because it’s designed to fit perfectly under the bra cups to provide support.

2.  The elastic is showing.

Exposed elastic is another symptom of a worn-out bra. The exposed elastic may seem harmless. After all, it’s still doing its job, right? Wrong. If the elastic is showing, it’s getting more exposed to sweat and body oils, which can damage the elastic and stretch it out. Exposed elastic usually means you also have a stretched band.

3.  The band is stretched.

A stretched band is expected, which is why bra bands are designed with multiple clasps. As the bra stretches, you can fasten the hooks on tighter clasps to give you that like-new, snug fit.

However, keep in mind that needing to use a tighter clasp is a sign that your bra is, indeed, getting worn-out. If you’re using the tightest clasp, you likely need to consider fitting a bra shopping trip into the near future.

The band of the bra provides the most support. When it’s snug, it helps to keep all other parts of the bra in place. And when it loosens, it can begin to ride up on your back, putting more pressure on your straps and shoulders.

4.  The straps fall off your shoulders.

You can try tightening the bra straps if they fall off your shoulders. You also want to be careful about tightening straps that stretched. However, if you fasten them too tight, the strap may pop. You can also create a gap in your cups when you tighten them too much. If tightening the straps leads to more issues, or if the straps continue to fall off your shoulders, they’re likely stretched and old.

5.  The clasps are broken.

Broken bra clasps are another sign that your bra is worn-out. Don’t be tempted to sew them back on. The clasps are what hold your bra together, and if they don’t function properly, you need to get rid of the bra.

6.  The cups are flimsy.

Have you noticed the cups of your bra are no longer shaped like they once were? A worn-out bra may have cups may feel flimsy and look shapeless. The foam padding in your cups can wear out and lose its shape overtime. The cups can also become stretched and gape open.

7.  It doesn’t provide the support it once did.

When you first bought the bra, it fit snugly and gave you the support, confidence and comfort you needed. However, a worn-out bra won’t be able to do this. If you don’t feel like you’re getting the original support you wanted, it could be because your bra is old.

Always get a bra fitting before shopping for new bras. A bra fitting ensures you know your true bra size so you can find a perfect fitting bra.

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:

Mod By Parfait Sweetheart Padded Bra A1391 | Mod By Parfait Sweetheart Hipster A1395 in Bright White/Almond Blossom

A broken bra strap is a bummer. Sure, you could try to rig the strap back onto the band, but chances are it will just pop off again. So, why did the bra strap break?

There are few good explanations. Let’s talk through them so you can hopefully avoid a broken bra strap in the future.

The bra band is too big.

It’s likely your bra strap broke because it was carrying too much weight. No, this doesn’t mean your boobs were too heavy for the strap. It means your bra band wasn’t carrying enough weight.

Your bra band provides more support than any other part of the bra. The band should fit snugly around your torso, so it remains in place, as well as helps other parts of the bra stay in place. However, a bra band that is too big won’t remain in place. It will ride up on your back, putting too much pressure on the bra straps.

The bra straps aren’t designed to carry weight – your bra band provides the majority of the bra’s support. The bra straps are designed to keep the cups of your bra in place. So, when you depend on the bra straps for support, it’s very possible one could break.

The bra is low-quality.

A low-quality bra will be cheap because it’s manufactured cheaply. This could mean low-quality materials are used and/or the bra wasn’t manufactured properly. A low-quality bra will always be more likely to have a shorter lifespan than a high-quality bra. If your bra is newer and it’s the right size, but the bra strap still broke, it may be because it’s low-quality.

Related: 12 Reasons Why You Should Invest In Beautiful Lingerie

The bra has been laundered poorly.

Not properly laundering your bra could cause the bra straps to break. Washing the bra in the machine washer allows the straps to get tangled on other items, pulling at the bra’s materials. Using a dryer to dry your bra is the worst thing you could do it because the dryer exposes the bra to extreme heat.

The heat from the dryer heats up the bra’s elastic (which is in the band and the straps), then cools it down. Exposure to extreme heat will break down the elastic overtime, and it could cause the strap to break free from the band or snap in half.

The best way to launder your bras is to handwash in the sink then air-dry on a flat surface. It’s also a good practice to wash a bra every three to four wears, depending on how much you sweat in it.

The bra is old.

A bra will stretch, lose its shape and show other signs of aging with numerous wears over months or years. One sign of aging is broken bra straps. Is it possible the bra strap prematurely broke due to poor laundering? Of course. It’s also possible the oils and sweat from your skin have worn-out the straps overtime if the bra wasn’t washed often enough. However, even a good quality bra that’s been taken care of will give in after too many wears.

If your bra strap has broken, it’s time to buy a new bra. You’ll want to get a professional bra fitting before buying new though. This ensures you find the best size and fit, so the strap doesn’t break due the band being too big. Then, you’ll want to take good care of the bra to extend its (and its straps’) lifespan.

Related: 6 Telltale Signs Of Bra Wear And Tear

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!