I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t treat myself to new lingerie as often as I should. When my schedule gets busy, the quality of my lingerie slips to the back of my mind. But wearing new intimates is exciting, and I forget how fresh lingerie makes me feel. I feel confident knowing I have pretty, like-new pieces on under my clothes. And, I feel good when I shed my clothes at the end of the day, seeing those pretty little numbers. Do you and your confidence a favor, and don’t let buying new lingerie slip off your priority list.

Wondering how often you should replace your bras? Here are four signs you need new bras and panties: 

1.  Your lingerie doesn’t make you feel sexy anymore.

Your lingerie should make you feel sexy and confident. Over a period of time, your personal style can change, altering the lingerie style that makes you feel most sexy. And, if your items are worn-out, they certainly aren’t going to boost your confidence. So, if your lingerie doesn’t make you raise a brow when you put it on, maybe it’s time to try something new.

2.  Nothing fits well.

When your bras and panties no longer fit you well, it’s time to go shopping. Maybe your bra straps slip down, you have to hook your bra on the tightest clasp or you have a gap between your breast and your cup. Or, perhaps your panties just don’t hug your body as they did before. As our weight fluctuates, our sizes can too. (Seriously. I lost 8 pounds and the bra fitting specialist told me it was enough to change my bra size.) It’s a good idea to get a professional bra fitting anytime you’re bra shopping. And when you buy new bras due to a size change, donate bras that are gently used so they can go to good use.

Related: Is Your Bra Too Small?

Parfait Enora Minimizer Bra P5272 in Whisper Blue

3.  Your items have embarrassing stains.

It’s inevitable – your bras and panties are going to get some stains. After all, we do live in these items. But, those stains can be embarrassing. Even if no one else can see them, you do – and those stains don’t help your confidence. Whether it’s a sweat stain on your bra or traces of your cycle on your panties – replace an item if a stain can’t be washed out.

4.  There are signs of wear and tear.

Even the best quality of lingerie will show signs of wear and tear eventually. The items can get snagged in your lingerie drawer, lose elasticity overtime or begin to tear from frequent wears and washes. If a piece of lingerie is looking tired, it’s time to retire it.

Lingerie doesn’t only serve the purpose of lifting and tucking in. The right lingerie can be a complete confidence booster. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your body and makes you feel fabulous. If you’re unsure of where to shop for bras, try using this tool to find out where to buy bras in your area.

Related: The 7 Golden Rules of Lingerie Shopping

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 Contour Underwire Strapless Bra P5011 | Elissa Bikini P5013 in Nude

I make soups year-round, but now we’re finally in soup season! Soup makes for easy week day lunches and week night dinners because they’re fairly effortless. I can toss all the ingredients in the crockpot, and let them simmer all day. Or, I can cook the soup on the stovetop after work for a quicker method. After we eat the soup, I put it in Tupperware containers for lunches that week. We save money, and we eat healthy – soup’s a win-win!

I love cream-based soups – like broccoli and cheddar soup – but those are typically not as healthy or low-calorie as broth- or tomoato-based soups. And, I also love dipping a baguette into my soup, which isn’t low-calorie either. So, I’ve been opting for veggie- and protein-packed soups that are hearty and filling enough to not make me want to add bread or crackers. And because many veggies have so few calories, you’re adding in quality fillers, instead of calorie-heavy fillers, like pasta or rice.

Below are four low-calorie and hearty soups that I can’t get enough of. And, I think you’ll agree after trying any one of them!

Healthy Cabbage Soup

Credit: The Cookie Rookie

Cabbage soup is the first low-calorie soup I made. My sister is a model, and she would rave about how many servings of cabbage soup she could eat. She said it was so low calorie that you could basically eat however much you wanted. But, I’ve never been a big cabbage fan, so I wasn’t enticed to try it. Fast forward to a few months ago, and I decided I wanted to give it a go.

Cabbage soup is packed with veggies, including green beans, carrots, zucchini and, of course, cabbage. It calls for vegetable or beef broth and a little tomato paste to make up the base. And, it’s so delicious! Trust me – remember, I don’t even like cabbage.

You can get the cabbage soup recipe here.

Tuscan Veggie Soup

Credit: Yummy Healthy Easy

I discovered Tuscan veggie soup a couple months ago. Yes, after loving the cabbage soup, I was intrigued to find another hearty soup that wouldn’t make me feel bloated. I think my husband and I both liked the Tuscan veggie soup more than the cabbage soup. That may have been because there were more ingredients in the Tuscan veggie soup, giving it a more robust flavor. But don’t get me wrong – both soups are very scrumptious.

The Tuscan veggie soup is also loaded with veggies, like celery, carrots, zucchini, spinach and tomatoes. Plus, it calls for cannellini beans. (If a soup calls for any type of bean, I’m down!) This soup uses chicken or vegetable broth for its base, and you can garnish with a little parmesan cheese to bring this Italian soup full-circle.

You can get the Tuscan veggie soup recipe here, which comes in at 150 calories per serving.

Related Post: 7 Reasons Why You Should Take Cooking Classes

Fiesta Chicken Soup

Credit: SkinnyMs

Chicken fiesta soup is something I’ve been making for years. I first started making it for a quick dinner because it was a “dump-and-go” recipe. Most of the ingredients can be bought in a can, so I could dump all the cans in crockpot in the morning or cook it all on the stove when I got home from work. But, just a reminder if you buy canned ingredients, your soup will be higher in sodium. I like buying frozen veggies – like corn or green beans – for soups so I decrease the sodium content.

Chicken fiesta soup calls for corn, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, salsa, chicken broth and chicken. And you can even omit the chicken if you don’t have time to cook it before preparing the soup. It tastes great both ways. Some recipes call for taco seasoning, however, I leave that out to help on sodium. The chiles and salsa have enough flavor to give the soup that spicy flavor. I garnish this soup with a little cheddar cheese and a few tortilla chips.

You can get the chicken fiesta soup recipe here, which comes in at 192 calories per cup.

Hearty Minestrone Soup

Credit: Little Spice Jar

Minestrone soup is one of my favorite soups because of its little pasta pieces.

This Italian soup combines different types of beans and vegetables for a hearty meal. The recipe calls for carrots, celery, spinach, tomatoes, zucchini, onions, green beans, great northern beans and kidney beans. Like the cabbage soup, its base it made from tomato paste and vegetable broth, plus a little tomato pesto.

You can get the minestrone recipe here, which comes in at 307 calories per serving.

Related Post: 14 Easy Meals for 2 On A Budget

Soups make for easy and filling meals all year long, but they are even more delicious as we transition to fall. Choose low-calorie soups, and you won’t feel guilty about going back for seconds!

I recently started a morning exercise routine. And I have to say, it completely changes my day.

I start by walking a lap around the neighborhood with my dog. (Sometimes we’ll do two laps if I wake up early enough.) Then, I do about 25 minutes of yoga when we get home. Overall, the routine takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and I’m showered and ready for the day by 8:30 a.m. or so. I aim to do the routine four times a week – It’s not a lot, but it’s better than nothing, right?

Since starting this morning exercise routine, I’ve realized it affects my day in a very positive way. Here are seven benefits of exercising in the morning:

1.  You feel accomplished early.

One of the biggest perks of morning exercise is that you feel accomplished early in the day. You exercise, get ready, have coffee and breakfast and then you’re ready to start working by 8:30 a.m. By the time you start working, you feel like you’ve already knocked things off your to-do list, and you’re ready to knock off a few more.

2.  You feel more motivated during the day.

Because you feel like you’ve already accomplished things so early in the morning, you feel more motivated throughout the day. When you start your day off on a productive note, it encourages you to want to continue being productive.

3.  You do something for yourself before starting the day.

Sometimes the day can be so busy that it feels like you don’t get a chance to breathe. Starting your day with a little exercise allows you to do something for yourself before doing anything else. Plus, it gives you a chance to get some quality alone time with your loved ones.

Related Post: What To Consider When Creating A Morning Routine That Works For You

4.  You make healthier decisions throughout the day.

You might not think you’re burning many calories during your morning workout, but you’d be surprised. Plus, the workout makes you want to choose healthier options during the day. When you start your day on a healthy note, you’re more motivated to end it on one.

5.  I get the workout out of the way early.

Maybe you’re not an exercise enthusiast. You might not trust myself to work out every day after work. You might even justify skipping your workout that day and the next day too. But, when you exercise in the morning, you omit any chances of flaking on your work out.

6.  Your body feels loose and awake.

Your body might feel tight or tired when you first wake up in the morning. But, getting in that morning exercise can help to loosen and wake up your body. When your body feels stretched and awake, you automatically feel much more productive.

7.  You get time to reflect in the morning.

Morning reflection is an important part of a morning workout. Many of us wake up and immediately shower and get ready, then then hurry to get out the door. But, when you’re up and out in the neighborhood early, it’s so peaceful. It can give you a chance to reflect on things and consider what you need to do that day. And, the solitude can also make you feel so grateful for the day ahead.

Related Post: Are You Getting Enough Beauty Sleep? Here’s How To Get Better Sleep Tonight

When is your favorite time to workout?

Monday mornings seem to come too fast. You enter the weekend with ideas, goals, tasks – or the lack thereof. All of a sudden, it’s Sunday night, and you either haven’t had the downtime you needed or you haven’t crossed many of those things off your list. So, the extra tasks will get done during the week or will have to wait until next weekend. It’s tough making room for all the things you need and want to do on the weekend. But it’s doable if you’re strategic and not too hard on yourself.

Here are four tips for having a productive and rewarding weekend:

Be realistic

The first step in ensuring you have a rewarding weekend is to have realistic expectations of what you can accomplish in a weekend. Being realistic about what you can accomplish in specific amount of time has its benefits. You’re more likely to check off all the items on your to-do list, and as a result, you’re less likely to feel “unproductive” at the end of the weekend.

You may feel like you can complete those nine random tasks over the weekend, but when it’s Sunday night and you still have five left, you feel like you let yourself down. There’s no need for that! Enter the weekend with realistic expectations. The point of having a productive weekend is to reduce stress – not add to it!

Prioritize what you absolutely must get done

After realizing you must be realistic about what you can accomplish, it’s time to plan your priorities for the weekend. First consider what absolutely must get done. Think about the tasks that can’t carry into the next weekend – maybe it’s grocery shopping, buying a birthday gift or putting in a little extra time at work. This will help you prioritize your weekend tasks.

There will always be things that can wait. If you have multiple items that must get done now, it simply means the other items will get done another time – and that’s okay. Determine what items you must accomplish this weekend, and remember, have realistic expectations.

Related Post: 15 Ideas For Quality “Me Time” That Will Leave You Feeling Refreshed

Include downtime in your to-do list

You’ve made your list of priorities, but now I have to ask: Did you include some time for yourself on that list? Having alone time on the weekend will make you feel rested and more productive for the new week. There may be a lot to do on the weekend, but you need time to refocus and recharge. No questions asked!

Plan when you will accomplish each task

It’s much easier to complete a task when you have a plan to complete it, otherwise, it likely won’t get done on time. So, after you’ve decided on your weekend priorities, plan when you will accomplish each of them. Consider your weekend plans, and when you’ll have a chunk of time for those little to-dos. You may need to plan around other events, but that’s where your realistic mindset will come in handy. You didn’t overachieve on your weekend plans because you knew how much free time you’d have to spare.

Once the weekend comes, do your best to stick to your priorities. Don’t take on something that could be done later. And, diligent about doing the things you said you would – whether it’s going for a mani-pedi or mopping the floors.

Life is truly a balancing act. We need fun, intimacy, intellectual stimulation, social activities, me time, etc. to feel like ourselves. It’s likely that many of these things, plus less appealing things like laundry or grocery shopping, will enter your weekend to-do list. You can absolutely balance it all and still have a productive and relaxing weekend if you have a plan.

Related Post: 3 Things Successful Women Do Each Weekend

What are your weekend plans?

With fall right around the corner, it’s time to stock up on cool weather style essentials. We’ll put aside the airy fabrics and replace them with items perfect for layering. After all, fall is all about layering. Adding a simple vest or jacket over a blouse completely levels-up your wardrobe game. But aside from layering, there are a few fashion must-haves that will keep you looking stylish (and functional) throughout the new season.

Here are our picks for your fall wardrobe:

Velvet

From velvet jumpsuits and bodysuits to velvet maxi dresses and blouses, velvet is IN this season. And it makes sense too – when fall is fully upon us, the cozy fabric will keep us warm.

Plaid

Plaid is a pattern that suits nearly all fall wardrobe items – dresses, blouses or jackets. But, go a step further by finding original, plaid items that are slightly spiced up. Take this plaid button-up, for example. It’s not your typical button up because it has wrist ties and a trendy neck cut-out.

Leather jacket

The leather jacket is back again. It was a fall staple last year and the year before that – and many years before that. A leather jacket is perfect to wear as part of your outfit or just to throw on as outerwear to get you from point A to point B. Personally, I think having both tan and black leather jackets is an excellent choice for fall. Having both colors will double your outfit options, and you won’t feel like you’re over-wearing an item.

Jewel tones

Fall brings the rich, deep hues, so bring on the jewel tones! You’ll be able to easily find pieces in emerald, maroon, gold, sapphire, ruby, etc. Even better – find a velvet item in a jewel tone, and you can simultaneously check two items off your fall must-have list.

Related Post: Lingerie Styling Tips: 5 Classy Ways To Wear Lingerie As Outerwear

Structured bag

As our clothing gets heavier for fall, so do our bags. A structured bag is stylish for the season, but also convenient for carrying fall pieces you shed during the day, like a scarf, gloves or a hat. Get a classic bag you can use again next year, or opt for details that are a little more current, like fringe or studs.

Oversized sweater

An oversized sweater is a go-to piece for fall. It works whether you’re having a lazy Saturday at home or heading out on the town. If your oversized sweater can also be worn off the shoulder, add a fun bralette under it for some extra sass and femininity.

Midi-length cardigan

Midi-length cardigans can be worn in many environments. From weekend brunches and date nights to going into the office or running errands around town, these long cardigans boost an outfit. And because they’re long in length and have long sleeves, you can usually omit a jacket.

Trench coat

I’ve listed several outerwear pieces so far, but of course, you’ll need a true coat for fall. A trench coat is a timeless coat you can wear year after year. Throw it on over your outfit when it’s chilly, or use the trench as part of your actual outfit. Trench coats come in multiple materials and weights, so there are plenty of options to meet your preferences.

Related Post: 5 Things Stylish Women Secretly Do Everyday

As you transition your wardrobe from summer to fall, keep neutral and jewel-toned colors top of mind. When you combine rich colors with seasonal pieces and cozy textures, you’ll be on-trend all season long.

Sometimes it seems like you get into a season just before it ends.

For me, it’s usually fall. I look so forward to fall, and then it seems like it’s gone before I’ve had a chance to enjoy it. Last year, I put out my fall home décor in October, then a month later, I was ready to transition to holiday décor. But, I refuse to let the season slip away from me this year! Instead, I’m going to start planning small activities now so I can fully enjoy the season.

Here are 15 activities to do this fall:

1.  Head to the pumpkin patch.

I love getting my pumpkins from the pumpkin patch each year. You get to wander through so many shapes, sizes and colors of pumpkins to find your favorite ones.  Then, you get to head home to set your prizes strategically around your home.

2.  Go apple picking.

If there’s an orchard in your area that will let you pick apples, get to pickin’! You’ll enjoy being out in the fall air, picking your own apples, then baking some fresh apple goods.

3.  Make DIY fall décor.

I love DIY crafts, but I sometimes forget about doing them seasonally. You could make a fall wreath, yard sign, table centerpiece – the list goes on. If you’re looking for a simple DIY fall décor project, try spray painting wine bottles then adding fall foliage inside them.

4.  Watch scary movies.

Instead of watching all the scary movies in October, start watching them now to help you get into the new season. I already have my eyes peeled for scary movies I can record on TV.

5.  Go on a hay ride.

A hay ride is sure to put you in the mood for fall! There’s just something so “fall” about riding on a bale of hay. Oh wait, it’s the riding on a bale of hay part.

6.  Bake fall goodies.

Seasonal baking is something that gets away from me. Pick out the goodies you want to bake this fall, and start checking items off that list now.

7.  Make s’mores on the fire.

Bonfires and firepits are the epitome of fall. Grab a sweater, marshmallows, chocolate bars and graham crackers, and enjoy making some s’mores fireside.

8.  Go to a haunted house.

If you like scary things, don’t forget to hit up a haunted yes. Sure, you may have been to plenty before, but you haven’t been to one yet this year.

9.  Burn fall scented candles at home.

If the orange and red leaves outside aren’t enough to make it feel like fall, burn some fall-scented candles in your home. All the spicy, pumpkin and caramel scents will certainly put you in the fall spirit.

10.  Drink seasonal beverages.

Pumpkin spice lattes (PSLs) aren’t popular just because they taste good. They’re popular because of the way that spiced beverages makes you feel. So, head to your local café and get whatever spiced drink tickles your fall fancy!

Related: 4 Hearty Low Calorie Soups Perfect For Fall

11.  Add some fall décor to your home.

Adding fall décor in and around my home instantly alerts me that it’s fall. So, put out that décor and make it easy on your brain to recognize the season!

12.  Hit up a corn maze.

Again, does it get any more “fall” than a corn maze? Nope! Grab your friends, and enjoy getting lost – or finding the exit – in a corn maze.

13.  Get outside.

One of the easiest things that will get you in the mood for fall is just being outside. The air is crisp, and all the colors are vibrant and warm. Go for a hike or go walking through your city to take in how the season’s affecting your surroundings.

14.  Go to the farmer’s market.

The farmer’s market transitions with each season. Hit up your local farmer’s market for fall-themed décor, foods, etc. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s exciting looking at all the fall products.

15.  Carve a pumpkin.

You bought pumpkins, but don’t forget to carve one! Carving a pumpkin is a great opportunity to be creative while also diving into the season.

Fall is upon us, and don’t let it pass you by! If you start doing little fall activities now, you’ll get into the fall spirit quickly so you ca relish in the entire season.

Bralettes can boost an outfit, whether you’re heading into the office or hitting the town. Here are our seven favorite ways to style a bralette:

1.  Wear a bralette under a drapey tank top.

Drop armhole tanks are a go-to whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands around town. Instead of a sports bra, pair your tank with a bralette. You’ll see the bralette’s detailing under your arm and possibly on your back, depending on what style tank you’re wearing. Wearing a bralette with one of these tanks makes for a more casual look, instead of sporty, so you can pop in for lunch or stop by the office without feeling underdressed.

2.  Wear a bralette as a cami under a top.

Some tops are a little too low to wear comfortably or have buttons that tend to peep open in the bust. A camisole tank top can be worn under a blouse to combat this, but you must constantly adjust, tuck-in or pull it down. Instead, wear a bralette under a top that is a little too revealing. It will provide coverage and will add some classy femininity to your outfit.

3.  Wear a bralette under a sheer blouse.

Sheer blouses are in, and for a good reason too. They are feminine and sexy, revealing your silhouette. Plus, they serve as a great opportunity to show off a pretty bra or bralette! Pair a sheer blouse with a simple, lacy bralette for a subtle look. Or, opt for a bralette with front and back crossbody straps or cut-outs for an edgier outfit.

4.  Wear a bralette under a cut-out dress or sweater.

Some dresses look best with nothing under them, hence a strapless bra. But cut-out sweaters and dresses look adorable when you add a fun bralette under them. Bonus points if you find a bralette that uses similar colors or fabrics (e.g. beige lace) as the dress. The bralette will look like an extension of the dress, making it look and feel even more trendy.

5.  Wear a bralette as a top.

Some bralettes are made a little longer or more covering than others, and this makes them the perfect top to partner with high-waisted skirts and pants. The bralette will hit just above the waistline of your bottoms, giving you that subtle crop top look. As we transition into fall, throw on a denim or leather jacket to fight the chill (or to show less skin).

6.  Wear a bralette under a buttoned blazer.

A bralette that goes straight across the bust – not a plunge-necklike an actual bra – is ideal under buttoned blazers. Unlike a cami, you won’t have to worry about the bralette coming untucked or showing at the bottom of your blazer. Choose a bralette with pretty detailing – like fringe or lace – across the top, and you’ll have a chic 9 to 5 look.

7. Wear a bralette under plunge-neck tees.

Plunge-neck tees are in style, and they are screaming to be worn with bralettes. Because the tees are so low in the front – some even low in the back too – they will show off much of your bralette’s detailing. You can get as adventurous as you want here, and I guarantee you’ll feel foxy with your décolleté look.

Incorporating a bralette as an accessory or main staple within an outfit is a major “yes” in my book. You get a look that is low maintenance, and you omit wearing a bra. Win-win!

Related Post: What Are Bralettes And How Do I Wear 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 fitterhelp.

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!

What’s your favorite way to style your bralettes?

Some weekends are like blank slates – you have no commitments, and you can enjoy the weekend at your leisure. But most weekends, there are errands to run and places to be. With all the priorities, you may even forget to make yourself a priority. But, making even a little time for yourself each weekend can result in a more rewarding new week.

1.  They make alone time a priority.

Let’s think about it. You’re most likely working Monday through Friday. When you’re done, you may stop by the drugstore, pick up kids and shuttle them to extracurriculars, meet girlfriends for happy hour, hit the gym, prepare dinner or tidy things up at home. Then, you wake up the next morning and do it all again.

By Friday, you couldn’t be more ready for weekend downtime, but you also have a to-do list to accomplish before Monday. Whatever those tasks might be – cleaning, yard work, grocery shopping, family time, events or your kid’s soccer practice – make sure you squeeze in time for you. You juggle a lot at work, and you work hard to create a nice lifestyle for you and/or your family. You are one of the biggest puzzle pieces that keeps your family uplifted and your household afloat. So, you completely deserve the luxury of “me time.”

After all, you can’t constantly go without taking a break – you’ll eventually hit a wall.

2.  They do something each weekend that makes them feel rejuvenated.

I love pampering myself at home on the weekends for some quality time with me, myself and I. I like to take a bubble bath, then give myself a facial and a mani-pedi. Partner those things with a glass of wine and an episode of Real Housewives while my nails dry, and I feel completely rejuvenated. I like my nails to be done because it prevents me from picking at them, plus a mani-pedi makes me feel put together. I have acne prone skin, so taking time to refresh my skin each week with a masque or mini facial helps keep it clear.

I don’t always have time for each of these little moments though. But even when I’m crunched for time, I still try to squeeze in as many of these things as I can. These are the small things that will help me have a good week because they make me feel good. When I feel good, I do even better. So, I make these things – or myself, rather – a priority.

3.  They spend time with themselves to refresh their mind.

It’s essential that you make time on the weekend for whatever makes you feel happy and refreshed. Spending a little time alone helps give your brain a break, which will make you feel more creative and productive in the new week. It allows you to do small things for yourself that help carry you through the week. It lets you refocus and breathe.

Having some alone time on the weekend isn’t always easy, but it’s a necessity. Carve out a little time for yourself, and I guarantee you will feel ready to spearhead whatever the week throws at you.

What are your weekend self-care plans? Share with us in the comments below!

You probably already knew that smiling is contagious. (Seriously, it comes down to facial mimicry.) But, did you know that smiling also makes you healthier? The way a smile effects the brain, and consequently, the body has an interesting impact on your health. So, not only does showing those pearly whites make you more attractive, but it comes with some serious health benefits as well.

Here are five ways that smiling makes you healthier:

1.  Smiling decreases chances of high blood pressure.

Smiling is good for heart health! When you smile, endorphins are released into the body. When endorphins increase, blood pressure typically lowers. In fact, laughter – which starts with a smile – initiates an increase in heart rate, but is followed by a period of muscle relaxation, as well as decreased heart rate and blood pressure. Because high blood pressure is linked to heart disease, smiling can also decrease your chances of heart disease. Are you smiling yet?

2.  Smiling boosts your immune system.

Could laughter really be the best medicine? Mayo Clinic reported that smiling and positive thoughts release neuropeptides that help fight stress and illnesses. Studies have found that people who smile more often have higher counts of white blood cells, which help fight off sicknesses. You may need a little more than a smile the next time you’re sick, but keeping a smile on your face may speed up the recovery!

3.  Smiling exercises your face.

Smiling takes some work! In fact, it takes about 26 muscles to smile, which is a great workout for your face. (And, that probably explains why your face hurts after smiling a lot.) The next time you’re working out, throw on a smile! You’ll get double the benefits because you’ll be working out your face and your body!

4.  Smiling lowers stress levels.

Stress can have some major effects on the body. When you’re sad or stressed, your brain sends neurotransmitters to communicate those feelings to the rest of your body. So, when you’re down and your whole body just feels depressed, you know why! But, when you smile, a different kind of neurotransmitter is released to communicate the happy feelings. Endorphins, dopamine and serotonin are released when you smile, which lower your stress level. Plus, cortisol, a stress hormone, is reduced when you smile. So, if you want to feel less stressed, smile more often!

5.  Smiling can boost your mood.

It’s mind over matter, and how we feel completely affects our health. (After all, we’ve just talked about how prolonged depression or stress can be harmful to the body.) A smile can boost your mood, even if it’s fake. That’s because all those happy hormones are released as an effect of your smile. So, if you’re feeling down, slap a smile on your face and go with it. You’ll soon feel better!

There are numerous benefits to smiling, but just the health benefits alone are enough to make you want to smile all day long. And those little health perks all come down to the hormones your brain releases during a smile. They can trick your body into feeling happier or more positive, and reduce the bad hormones that make us tense and stressed – and that can have ugly, long-term effects.

Could a smile a day keep the doctor away? Probably not. But smiling may help keep the stress away!

Fashion trends are forever changing. But there’s one trend we love that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere: wearing lingerie as outerwear. Did you think your lingerie was only for you and your significant other? Think again! You can pair lingerie with every day fashion staples for a classy, feminine and trendy look.

Here are five of our favorite ways to incorporate lingerie into your street style:

1.  Wear a bralette as an accessory.

Accessories are meant to boost an outfit, and bralettes can do just that. Many bralettes have intricate detailing and unique designs, making them a perfect accessory. We especially love bralettes under drop armhole tank tops. You could go without a bra for a teasing glimpse at your side. Or, you could opt for a bralette to add a little extra detail to your style. (Plus, you won’t have to worry about any goodies accidentally making their debut.) The best part? Bralettes come in various styles, so you can choose whether you want to feel edgy, sporty, dainty – you get it.

 2.  Wear a silk robe as outerwear.

Your robe is so comfortable that you want to live in it, right? You can! (In fact, singer Rachel Patton recently wore a silk robe with silk pants during her performance on Good Morning America.) An untied, midi-length silk robe looks chic accompanied by a simple top, skinny jeans and heels. Or, slide into some black pants, tie the robe and throw your hair into top bun for a sleek, yet quick, go-to look.

Related Post: 5 Reminders Before You Go Bra Shopping

 3.  Wear a chemise as a dress.

We want cool fabrics in the hot months, and we want to layer fabrics in the cooler months. Your nighties can help achieve both of these styles! Floor length nighties are great for the warmer months, and the numerous patterns available make your nightie look just like a dress. (Except you’ll keep cool with breathable, light fabrics.) When it begins to cool down, opt for a shorter nightie and partner it with a jean jacket and boots. Regardless of how you wear the nightie, I guarantee you’ll feel sexy when the soft fabric brushes against your skin.

4.  Wear a teddy as a bodysuit.

Many bodysuits look like lingerie. So, why not wear your lingerie as your bodysuit? Teddies come in a variety of styles and colors, and they look stylish and sexy when paired with high-waisted pants or jeans. You can even add a leather jacket or a blazer for a more complete look. Of course, teddies offer the same benefits as a bodysuit. So, your feminine style will stay flawless all night long.

 5.  Wear a chemise or a camisole as a blouse.

You don’t have to wear a bodysuit to not worry about your shirt coming untucked. When you wear a chemise as a blouse, you’ll have plenty of material to tuck in, alleviating the need to “check and adjust the tuck” throughout the day. A mid-thigh chemise is the perfect addition tucked into trouser jeans. Many have lace or beading along the neckline, providing subtle, feminine details. Complement this style with a loose cardigan sweater when it’s chilly, and you have the perfect fall outfit (in or out of the office!)

Related Post: 7 Classy Ways To Style A Bralette

Your lingerie has many uses aside from being worn in the bedroom or worn as under garments. From lacy bralettes and teddys to silk robes, your lingerie has a place in your everyday style. And with a little creative styling, you can easily wear lingerie as outerwear and take your outfit to the next level.