Related: The Girl’s Guide To Lingerie Styles

Related: 5 Tips For Feeling Your Best In Lingerie

Featured image lingerie:

Charlotte Padded Bra 6901 | Charlotte High Waisted Brief 6917 in Black

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

Once you’ve decided to do a boudoir photo shoot, there are lots of things to consider — from picking the photographer and the theme to your hair and makeup. But let’s be real: the best part about this process is choosing what you’re going to wear. Of course, you’re bound to go rifling through your collection to find some of your favorites. But you also may want to use this shoot as an excuse to buy some exciting new underthings.

Choosing lingerie for your boudoir photo shoot is crucial because the pieces you wear can totally transform the overall vibe of the photos. Naturally, you want to select garments that flatter your figure, photograph well and reflect your own sense of personal style.

Need a little inspiration? Luckily, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite lingerie outfit ideas for boudoir photo shoots.

Blushing bride

If you’re planning a boudoir photoshoot as a gift to your husband-to-be, you might very well decide to stick to a bridal theme. And why shouldn’t you? Your wedding will no doubt be one of the most memorable days of your life, and these photos will give you both the chance to relive the memories.

Consider a blue bra and panty set or a white babydoll for a look that’s innocent yet still undeniably sexy. Stick to classic jewels like pearl stud earrings or a diamond necklace (and your ring, of course!) — and slip on a pair of nude patent or white pumps. If you plan to wear a veil on the big day, then consider donning that for the shoot as well to really seal in the blushing bride look. While holding a bouquet stretched out on a bed, or gazing seductively out the window, you’re bound to grab your groom’s attention.

Marion Contour Padded Bra P5391 | Marion Hipster P5395 in Pink Parfait

Retro romance

A super popular theme in boudoir photography is the retro look. There are many ways to achieve this with lingerie, but a great place to start is with a lace longline bra and a high-waisted panty.

Did we mention this is a fabulous selection for curvy ladies? Longline bras, as well as high-waisted panties, offer extra shaping around the midsection, accentuating your bust and hips while drawing attention to your small waist — thus celebrating that enviable hourglass shape you have. To kick things up a notch, slip on a garter belt and thigh highs, which will lend a pinup vibe to the whole ensemble. Of course, a touch of red lipstick, vintage-looking pumps, and big Hollywood curls or waves in your hair will complete the whole aesthetic.

Sporty chic

If you’re more of a casual, playful gal than an all-out glamorous seductress, then you may want to try an athletic look. You can easily achieve an ensemble that’s both sporty and sexy with a pair of cheeky boyshorts, knee-high socks, and sneakers. You might want to wear a shirt with your favorite sports team on it. Or, if this shoot is a present for your hubby-to-be, you can borrow one of his old jerseys. Not only does that personalize the look, but it also shows your his biggest fan. You can really have fun with props on this one, too — like popping on a baseball hat or holding a football, for example.

Related: How To Find A Local Boudoir Photographer

Romina Unlined Wire Bra P5522 | Romina Hipster P5525 in Quartz Pink

Something borrowed

There’s something inexplicably alluring about seeing your significant other wearing something of yours. So if you’re not feeling the traditional lingerie route, consider taking a peek into your partner’s closet. A button-down shirt may be the only garment you need for a super steamy shoot — you can leave a few buttons undone or leave it open, depending on the look you’re going for. A men’s tie also makes for a sultry addition to a boudoir shoot — you can leave it hanging loosely around your neck, tie your wrists to the bedpost with it, or use it as a blindfold, for example. Slip on a pair of sky-high heels and you’ve got a simplistic yet sexy wardrobe for your shoot.

Commando

Who says you have to wear anything at all? If you’re feeling brave, consider skipping the lingerie entirely and using this boudoir shoot as an opportunity to celebrate your body as is, with nothing adorning it. There are lots of creative ways to go this route tastefully, too, if you’re nervous about total nudity. For instance, you could try a shoot in the bathtub, with rose petals artfully concealing you a bit. Or, you could wrap yourself in a sheet, showing off your favorite parts of your body while still maintaining an element of tease.

Carole Unlined Wire Bra 3102 | Carole Hipster 3105 in Desert Flower

Remember

Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong way to dress for a boudoir photoshoot — it all comes down to your comfort level and personal preferences. Whatever you’re wearing, the most important thing is that you feel 100 percent confident in it. After all, boudoir shoots are all about celebrating your own unique body, and your own brand of sexy.

Related: How To Plan For A Boudoir Photo Shoot

Sandrine Plunge Longline Bra P5351 | Sandrine Hipster P5355 in Wild Pink

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for your boudoir photoshoot, 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:

Romina Unlined Wire Bra P5522 | Romina Hipster P5525 in Quartz Pink

When it comes to the most desirable aspects of breast appearance, perkiness tends to top the list. The reality is, your breasts do start to naturally droop as you age (blame gravity and elasticity loss). In addition to aging, other factors such as breastfeeding and pregnancy or weight fluctuations can also play a role in where your breasts sit. And some women simply have pendulous breasts.

It’s important to remember that boobs come in all shapes and sizes, and they’re all beautiful! But if you find yourself seeking out a perkier bust line, we have good news: There are certain bra styles that can help get you there.

Here are a few of the best bras when you’re looking for a boost:

Balconette bra

You’ll be hard pressed to find a better bra style if it’s perky breasts you’re after. The balconette bra is designed to lift your breasts upward without squishing them together whatsoever. The result? Dramatic, va-va-voom volume — and most of them don’t even have any padding.

Balconette bras (and demi cup bras in general) are stellar choices for those whose breasts are more shallow up top, as the underwire and multi-part cups will bring the breast tissue up higher for a lifted, rounded look. If you’re looking for a bra with slightly more coverage in the cups, a demi cup bra has most of the same benefits as a balconette but covers the breasts a tad more.

Racerback bra

Did you know that a racerback bra can actually give your boobs a lift? Since the straps come inward at the back, this style can naturally bring the breasts inward and upward a bit. If you don’t want to invest in a racerback bra, you can also buy a convertible bra and adjust the straps to create the racerback style. Also, a Y-back bra works the same way, offering the same kind of advantage in regards to lift. You can opt for a padded racerback bra if you’re looking to sculpt your breasts and get slightly more nipple coverage as well. As an added bonus, racerback bras are great for those who struggle with strap slippage due to narrow or sloping shoulders — the placement of the straps makes them less likely to fall off your shoulders.

Related: The 3 Best Bras For Narrow Shoulders

Lynn Y-Back Front Closure Bra P13122 | Lynn Brazilian Thong P13014 in Black

Front-close bra

A front-close bra is obviously super convenient — since you hook it in the front, there’s no need to reach around or twist the bra to the back. But it’s also a top choice when you want perkier looking breasts. Since a front-close bra brings your breasts slightly closer together, it can make them look rounder and lifted.

Push up bra

It goes without saying that a push up bra is the perfect choice when you want to achieve perky looking breasts. After all, this style features cups that bring the breast tissue inward and upward for a serious cleavage boost. There are a variety of different kinds of push up bras to choose from, so finding the right one for you depends on your goals. Some push up bras have graduated padding in the cups, while others only have padding at the bottom of the cups — either way, these styles will lift your breasts from the bottom, rather than padding them uniformly throughout.

Regardless of which style you choose, a push-up bra is a wonderful option to have in your collection when you’re looking to amp up the cleavage on a dinner date, girls night out, or another special occasion (or for no reason at all!). And while some push up bras can increase the appearance of your bust line by one to two cup sizes, keep in mind that they can still work super well for large busted ladies, too. Try to look for a push-up bra made by a brand that’s specifically geared toward full busts so you can ensure it’s designed to accommodate the weight and size of your breasts.

Lynn Super Push-Up Bra P13021 | Lynn Hipster P13015 in Nude

Remember

Keep in mind that while wire-free bras can still provide ample support, your best bet for a perky appearance is to opt for underwire bras. Underwire goes a long way in not only lifting the breasts upward but keeping them there. You may also want to look for bras with three-part cups — the seams on these specially designed cups help with shaping the breasts as well as lifting them in a way that looks natural and subtle.

Related: 8 Reasons To Try A Push-Up Bra

Lynn Push-Up Strapless Bra P13112 | Lynn Bikini P13013 in Black

We Highly Recommend

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

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

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

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Parfait Lynn Push-Up Strapless Bra P13112 in Black | Parfait Lynn T-Shirt Bra P13011 in Nude | Parfait Lynn Y-Back Front Closure Bra P13122 in Black

When it comes to how our breasts look, one of the most sought-after traits is a nicely rounded shape. Some of us are born with it. Some of us, however, look for bras that will give us this appearance. It’s important to keep in mind that every breast shape is beautiful. However, if for some reason you’re eager to achieve a more rounded look, there are indeed bras that can help you to achieve it.

Without further ado, here are some of the top styles that will make your breasts look rounder:

Molded bras

First of all, let’s address the meaning of a molded bra. These bras feature cups that have been given a pre-made form over a breast mold. As a result, the cups already have a pre-defined breast shape that they will “mold” your bust into. This obviously makes them a stellar selection when you’re looking for maximum shaping benefits from your bra. The fabric is typically seamless on molded bras, which means they will typically disappear under your clothing.

Molded bras will vary, however, in terms of the material, cup coverage, etc. Some molded bras may have more padding than others — for example: push-up bras have additional padding at the bottom of the cups that will push your breasts inward and upward. Whether you’re looking for a molded longline bra or molded plunge bra, there are a wide variety of options to choose from. Just keep in mind that unlined molded bras will provide slightly less shaping than those that have padding or at least are lightly lined.

Related: Molded Bras vs Non-Molded Bras: What’s The Difference Between Molded and Non-Molded Bras?

Contour bras

There’s hardly a better choice for shaping than a contour bra. To be clear, a contour bra is a specific kind of molded bra that features an extra layer of foam in the cups that can help to sculpt the breasts for a more rounded and lifted appearance. Bonus: This additional foam also helps to prevent your nipples from showing.

Without a doubt, one of the most popular types of contour bras is the T-shirt bra. These lightly padded bras are perfect for wearing underneath clingy knits — not only do they give your bustline a stunning round shape but they’re invisible even under the thinnest and tightest garments. T-shirt bras are usually made of smooth, seamless material — so true to their name, they are well suited to body-hugging T-shirts and tank tops.

Pro tips

Either of these bra styles is a phenomenal pick because they’ll mold your breasts into a nicely rounded shape, giving you a stunning silhouette in anything from a little black dress to a body-hugging tank. To boot, molded bras and contour bras tend to be seamless yet offer some extra coverage, meaning you won’t have to stress about your bra or your nipples showing through. One last thing: While wire-free bras and unlined bras are great for many different breast types and occasions, these aren’t ideal if you’re seeking out some help in the shaping department. It’s worth noting that contour bras are also great for women who have asymmetrical breasts, as the padding in the sculpted cups can make them look even in size.

Related: How Many Bras Do You Actually Need?

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:

Matilda Contour Plunge Padded Bra P5311 | Matilda Hipster P5315 in Bisque

There are many debacles we face when it comes to how our bras fit. Not only do we need to make sure our breasts are completely contained in the cups and that the band provides adequate support, but we also need to ensure that the center gore lies flat and the straps stay put.

If you’ve ever dealt with strap slippage, you know how much of a nuisance this can be. Bra straps can slip for a variety of reasons, but one of them is that you have narrow shoulders. Every woman’s body is unique, and it’s important to recognize that your frame has just as much of an impact on bra fit as your breast size and shape does.

If you have narrow shoulders, you might want to consider the following suggestions while bra shopping.

Plunge bra

Emma Wire-Free Soft Padded Bra P5491 | Emma Hipster P5495 in Black

Did you know that many plunge bras feature straps that are set closer to the neck? That makes them a fabulous option for women with narrow or sloping shoulders. As an added bonus, a plunge bra is a phenomenal addition to any bra collection as it works well for low-cut top and dresses. Moreover, plunge bras tend to offer a fabulous fit for women who have close-set breasts because they often have a narrower center gore between the cups. Plunge bras come in a range of fabrics and styles, so whether you’re seeking one with molded/contoured cups or unlined cups, you’re bound to find one that works for you.

Related: Revealed: What You Need To Know About Plunge Bras

Leotard back bra

Irene Unlined Wire Bra P5332 | Irene Bikini P5333 in Ivory

With straight back bras, the band lies entirely horizontal on the back of the body, but leotard back bras feature some curvature where the straps meet the back of the band. Essentially, the leotard back looks like a deep U-shape. Since the straps meet closer together in the back, this is another ideal option for women with narrow shoulders, as there’s less risk of strap slippage. Additionally, a leotard back can be helpful when you’re wearing a top or dress that dips down or has a scoop shape in the back as it’s less likely to show than a straight back bra. Any bra that features a J-hook can actually be converted into a leotard back as well! So keep a lookout for that feature.

Racerback bra

Lynn Y-Back Front Closure Bra P13122 | Lynn Brazilian Thong P13014 in Nude

There is a lot to love about racerback bras: They’re comfy, super supportive, flattering, and layer perfectly under all your racerback tanks and dresses without peeking out. Not to mention, they happen to be a spectacular solution for narrow shoulders. Since the straps on this style come inward to meet in the middle of your back, it’s nearly impossible for them to fall off your shoulders. Many sports bras are made with a racerback design, but you can also find padded racerback bras, push-up racerback bras, convertible racerback bras, and many other styles as well.

Have some ideas for your next bra shopping excursion? Here are some final tips to keep in mind. Strap slippage can happen to anyone, regardless of whether you have narrow shoulders or not. It’s important to make sure the straps fit snugly — you shouldn’t be able to comfortably slip more than two stacked fingers underneath them. Very often, strap slippage is a sign that the bra band is too large, so you may need to size down in the band to ensure that they stay put. Keep in mind that while a plunge bra, leotard back or J-hook bra, and racerback bra are all wonderful choices for narrow shoulders, there are certain styles that are less ideal. For example, most balconette bras feature wide set straps. Since the straps are farther apart, there’s a greater chance that they will fall off your shoulders.

Related: Where To Find Front Fastening 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:

Emma Plunge Molded Bra P5490 | Emma Hipster P5495 in Nude

When it comes to undergarment blunders, there’s hardly a worse offender than the VPL. Some of us go to great lengths to avoid the visible panty line, and the truth is, it’s not always such an easy feat. Particularly if you wear a lot of form-fitting clothing, you may notice this pesky problem popping up more often. Or, if you like particular panty styles, you may also struggle with a visible line.

What are the best ways to prevent a visible panty line? In this guide, we’ll cover some of the most effective strategies for ensuring you achieve a smooth silhouette with any ensemble.

Find a flawless fit

First thing’s first. If your panties don’t fit well, they’re far more likely cause VPL. For example, if they’re too tight, they could cut into your skin and cause some bulge around your buttocks, thighs, or waist, that will show through your clothes. On the other hand, if they’re too baggy, the extra fabric will create some unsightly lines, bumps, and wrinkles under your outfit. Try a variety of styles and sizes until you find your perfect fit, and remember: your size may vary between brands.

Go seamless

Look for seamless panties that have laser cut edges if you’re wearing a body-hugging ensemble and concerned about any lines showing through. In particular, styles made with lots of spandex and elastic are ideal — the thinner the material, the better!

Try a thong

There’s no doubt about it — thongs are one of the best styles to wear when you’re trying to prevent VPL. These panties are cut with no coverage on your behind, so you don’t have to worry about lines showing on your derriere. Again, opting for a style made with a touch of spandex is best. Consider the rise on what you’re wearing as well: If you’re sporting a high-waisted skirt, for example, you’ll want a higher rise thong to avoid a visible line across the waist.

Related: The Girl’s Guide To Panty Styles

Bring on the boyshorts

If you’re not a fan of thongs — either because you find them uncomfortable or simply don’t love the look — fret not: boyshorts are a stellar alternative for dodging a visible panty line. Since they offer ample coverage, extending all the way to the top of your thighs, they don’t cut across your butt. That means you’re less likely to see any VPL. Again, look for seamless styles to be on the safe side. And while we love boyshorts with lace accents and other fun, feminine details, you’re better off sticking with super simple styles if you’re trying to avoid VPL or any other visible lumps or bumps.

Get sleek with shapewear

Shapewear can be your best friend when you’re looking to achieve a smooth look. Any undergarments that extend down to your thigh and up to your waist will give you a sleek silhouette, and as an added bonus, can make certain ensembles hang better on your body for a more flattering fit.

Go commando

Of course, if you really want to prevent a VPL, one of the most effective tactics is to simply skip panties altogether. So if you’re feeling brave enough, try going commando! The best way to do this without risking a wardrobe malfunction is to try going panty-less under a tighter dress skirt that hits closer to the knee or below, or a pair of pants.

Any of these approaches should help to keep VPL at bay, but here are some final tips. Slinky fabrics are far more prone to showing visible panty lines, as they cling to the skin. Opting for thicker fabrics is a smarter strategy. Also, looser silhouettes are obviously more forgiving in regards to VPL than tight-fitting clothing. Textured fabrics are your friend because they can camouflage visible lines. Additionally, prints can hide VPL very well — the more elaborate the pattern, the less likely it is that your panty line will show.

Related: How To Shop For Plus Size Underwear

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:

Charlotte Highwaist Brief 6917 in Dusty Rose | Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze

By now, you’re not only well aware that bralettes are all the rage, but you’ve probably accepted this fact — and perhaps shopped for them yourself. And this trend is no surprise, given that bralettes are super comfy and yet also incredibly chic looking.

Whether or not you own any bralettes, you’ve likely considered adding them to your lingerie collection at some point. Or, perhaps you’ve been tempted to buy one, but hesitated because you didn’t think they would work well for you.

Just as there are with bras, there’s certainly some false information circulating about bralettes, and we’re here to clear it up.

Without further ado, here are some of the top myths surrounding this increasingly popular style:

Myth #1: Only small-busted ladies can wear them.

Let’s clear this up right now: Bralettes aren’t designed only for small boobs. In fact, more and more full-busted ladies are embracing bralettes. If you’re above a C cup, you may want to seek out bralettes from brands who specialize in full bust / full figure designs.

You also may want to look for bralettes that have some special features in place to provide additional support, lift, and shaping. But the bottom line is this: You can definitely take advantage of this lightweight style, no matter your bra size.

And if you’re a little shy about wearing a bralette for the first time, you can always break it in just relaxing at home. Some women find bralettes to be a comfortable compromise between going bra-less and wearing a bra while sleeping as well.

Myth #2: They’re solely meant for lounging around.

Sure, bralettes work super well for hanging around the house or running casual errands. But that’s not to say bralettes can’t be fashion-forward. In fact, many bralettes are practically made to be seen.

For example, you may find you want to find ways to show off bralettes in allover lace, or with feminine accents on the straps, or elaborate detailing in the back. These styles look spectacular peeking out from underneath racerback sundresses, low armhole tanks, and open back blouses. Ultimately, you can find a bralette for almost any occasion.

Related: What Is A Lounge Bra?

Adriana Lace Bralette P5482 | Adriana Lace Bikini P5483 in Sky Blue

Myth #3: They don’t offer any support.

As previously explained, many people mistakenly assume that bralettes are not meant for large-busted women. This myth primarily exists because it’s commonly believed that bralettes do not offer support. Indeed, many bralettes are wireless — but not all of them are.

If you love the look of a bralette but want a little more structure, you can certainly find one with underwire. Additionally, there are bralettes with adjustable straps, adjustable hook-and-eye closures on the band, and molded cups. So you’re sure to find a bralette that’s tailored to your needs in terms of the level of support.

Myth #4: They’re just a passing trend.

Some say that bralettes are just a fad — but at this point, it’s pretty clear that they’re here to stay. Need proof? According to 2017 research published by Edited, sellouts of bralettes have rocketed by 120 percent across numerous lingerie brands.

As more and more brands begin to produce their own take on this ever-popular style, there are more options than ever before. And with more options to choose from, more and more women are adding bralettes to their collections.

From A-list actresses and supermodels to style bloggers, bralettes seem to be popping up on plenty of influencers as of late. In other words: The bralette is not a passing trend, but one that is becoming increasingly versatile and inclusive.

What’s not to love about a bralette? It’s got a barely-there feel, a super cute look, and can work with a wide variety of ensembles as well as body types.

Now that we’ve cleared up some of the most common myths around bralettes, there’s only one thing left to do: go shopping for some styles that will make you feel super confident as well as comfortable.

Related: How Should A Bralette Fit?

Adriana Lace Bralette P5482 | Adriana Lace Bikini P5483 in Pearl White

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:

Adriana Lace Bralette P5482 | Adriana Lace Bikini P5483 in Black

It’s no secret that moms can sometimes put their children’s needs before their own. But have you ever heard the saying about putting on your own oxygen mask first? The idea is that we can only take care of others if we’ve looked after ourselves. And it makes sense if you think about it: The more well-rested, properly nourished, and mentally fulfilled you are, the better prepared you are to be the best mom you can be. In other words, self-care is an absolutely critical concept for mothers to get on board with. Still, studies have shown that the average mom only gets about 17 minutes of free time to herself every day.

Clearly, it’s time for mothers to start honing in on their own needs. So, how can moms practice self-care?

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Get on a sleep schedule

Sleep obviously plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. When we’re not catching enough Z’s, we’re more likely to become irritable, have trouble concentrating on tasks and feel the effects of stress. Of course, motherhood can pose some challenges to sleeping the recommended seven hours of sleep a night. But one of the best things you can do for yourself is to make sleep a priority.

It’s a good idea to get on a schedule where you’re going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time — your internal clock will start adapting and it will be easier to fall asleep. If you have a baby, you’ll likely want to adjust your sleeping schedule to theirs. That means taking a nap while they’re taking one, whenever possible, to make sure you get adequate sleep.

You might also take advantage of the many sleep-related apps that are available. For example, there are apps that emit relaxing sounds to help you drift off into slumber and apps that analyze your sleep quality.

Sleep Cycle is an excellent choice: After you select a wake-up time, the app will gently awaken you when it detects that you’re in your lightest phase of sleep — that way, you wake up feeling as refreshed as possible. Not only that, but the app tracks your sleep patterns and offers up informative statistics that can help you get better shut-eye.

Fuel your body

How many times have you realized you forgot to eat? How many times have you been forced to eat something you consider unhealthy simply out of convenience? There are lots of ways to make sure you don’t face these scenarios.

The key is to be prepared, and that means packing snacks with you at all times so that you always have access to nutritious food, even on your busiest days. Keep pre-packaged snacks on hand that you can grab on your way out the door, such as homemade trail mix, dried roasted edamame, string cheese, fruit, kale chips, and granola.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to dive into your meal prep before the work week starts — chopping veggies, cooking grains, and marinating meat, for example, can make cooking a lot easier. And batch cooking (which just means making meals in larger quantities) can be a lifesaver for working moms because it ensures that you have leftovers to last you through the week.

Don’t forget to stay hydrated, either. Try buying a reusable water bottle that fits at least 1 to 1.5 liters and filling that up at the beginning of the day. Feel free to add fresh fruit infusions or flavor packets if it helps you to drink enough water. Dehydration puts you at risk for lack of energy, dizziness, confusion, and irritability, not to mention other more serious issues.

Related: What’s The Difference Between Maternity Bras and Nursing Bras?

Stay connected to others…

It’s important to make time for friends, family, and your significant other. Schedule date nights or a girls’ night with friends on a monthly or weekly basis, depending on what’s realistic for you. For example, you might have a standing Sunday brunch with your gal pals every first weekend of the month, or a dinner out with your partner on Friday night.

There are so many other ways you can stay connected to others and meet new people, too — such as joining a book club or group for moms or volunteering with a friend. Leverage sites like MOPS  and Meet Up to find a like-minded mommy community. Forging and maintaining relationships will do wonders for your mental and emotional health.

…And yourself

Between working, cooking, cleaning, keeping up with laundry, and making sure your kids are well fed, well rested and where they need to be, you may start feeling like your own passions and hobbies are lost in the shuffle. Make time for yourself, even if it’s just 20 to 30 minutes a day.

Some women may use this time to meditate or journal, while others might pursue creative activities they find enjoyable such as painting or gardening. Maybe you just want to use that time to dive into a good book, or take a walk and explore some part of town you’ve never been to. Regardless, make it a point to rediscover what makes you happiest.

Undoubtedly, motherhood is an incredibly rewarding phase of life, but it also comes with many challenges as well. Remember: In order to be the best mom you can be, it’s crucial to give yourself enough TLC. These self-care strategies should hopefully help you to hone in on your own needs and desires, and ultimately prioritize your overall well-being.

Related: How To Buy The Right Nursing Bra Size

Featured image lingerie:

Leila Nursing Bra NB502 in Bare

Maybe you catch a glance at yourself in the mirror, or maybe you see a woman with a dramatically different physique walking by. Maybe you’re flipping through a fashion magazine, or scrolling through your Instagram feed. Insecurity can creep in at any moment, and when it does, it can be tough to rebound back to a body positive state of mind. The insecurity could only last a few minutes, but it could also hang over you for days, unnecessarily draining you of happiness.

So, how can you hop back on the body positivity train when you’re feeling insecure? Here are five foolproof tactics:

1.  Snap a selfie

Did you know that taking a photo of yourself can actually enhance how you see yourself?  In fact, in one 2016 survey by Today and AOL, a whopping 65 percent of females said that seeing their selfies on social media elevated their self-confidence. So, whenever you’re feeling particularly fabulous — whether it’s because you’re rocking a super flattering new dress for date night, just got a professional blowout, or finally mastered the smoky eye — reverse your camera and snap a pic.

2.  Revamp your social media feed

Without a doubt, social media is one of the most common triggers of physical insecurities. It’s easy to start comparing yourself to others while scrolling through their images — but remember: people are only posting their most flattering photos (and in many cases, filtering, Photoshopping or otherwise doctoring them).

One 2011 study revealed that avoiding social comparisons is one of the best ways to boost your body satisfaction. So if you’ve been feeling a little down about your body, consider going through your feed and unfollowing any account that causes negative self-talk. Then, replace those accounts with body positive ones. Ideally, you want your social media feed to reflect women who make you feel included, accepted, and most of all, beautiful. Diversify your feed to reinforce the idea that women come in all shapes and sizes, and you’re bound to see your body positivity skyrocket.

3.  Rock some red

Every woman had a unique personal style, and we all have colors we gravitate toward wearing. But when you need a lift, consider wearing red. Why? Well, according to a 2017 study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, most people feel more physically attractive when they’re rocking this fiery hue. Participants who wore red rated themselves higher in regards to both attractiveness and sexual appeal than participants wearing other colors. By the way — in case you needed another reason to believe that red could help with your self-confidence: other research has shown that people mentally associate red with power.

4.  Find role models who emphasize inner beauty

Be careful of admiring celebrities for their looks. It may be tempting to idolize bloggers, actresses, or singers based on their appearance, but doing so only emphasizes that looks are worth more than they actually should be.

Find some new role models who you look up to for the right reasons — whether that’s because they’re successful, courageous, intelligent, or outspoken. The more your value these traits in others, the more you’ll be able to recognize that your own self-worth goes far deeper than your looks.

5.  Replace negative thoughts with positive ones

It’s normal to have a negative thought pop into your head once in a while, but it’s how you deal with it that matters. If you don’t replace the thought, it’s more likely to become persistent, and that’s when it will start to impact your mood and overall self-esteem. One of the most effective ways to change negative thought patterns is to immediately replace them with positive alternatives. For example, if you’re looking in the mirror and thinking “my hips look huge,” you could turn that around and think, “I’m thankful for my wide hips because they look amazing in a pencil skirt.” It may prove challenging at first, but the truth is, there’s a positive spin to anything negative you could think about your body. Start rewiring those thoughts and you’ll quickly find the negative self-talk becoming less and less frequent.

When you’re feeling insecure, you may look to your friends or significant other to say the right thing and drag you out of it. But ultimately, it’s important to be able to look within for a self-esteem boost — and these five strategies should help get you started.

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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 vacation is supposed to inspire feelings of excitement, relaxation, and rejuvenation. But for some women, may stir up some anxiety instead. Slipping into a bathing suit, savoring more lavish meals — these are the kinds of indulgences that many vacations are made of. However, they can make it challenging to stay in a body positive frame of mind.

So if you find that you’re stressing about your body image prior to an upcoming trip, here are some tactics you should keep in mind to ensure that you actually enjoy your travels:

Follow body positive accounts on social media

Ahead of your vacation, seek out body-positive women to follow on social media. Instagram and other social networks are littered with photos of unrealistic “bikini bodies” that can cause you to feel insecure when you start comparing yourself to them. It’s important to remember that every body is a bikini body — and follow women of all shapes and sizes who reinforce that idea. Don’t know where to start? We love the posts that show up on the page for the hashtag #EveryBodyIsBeautiful.

Keep moving

Taking some time away from the gym is not only acceptable on vacation, but encouraged. It’s totally OK to give your body a break — besides, muscles can only repair themselves and get stronger if you let them rest! Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t find other ways to exercise in a way that will benefit you.

For example, a swim in the hotel pool could be an invigorating way to start your day. Or, a hike through a local forest could be an awesome way to break a sweat while exploring the local environment. Why not scope out the nightlife scene and go dancing with your friends? Even just walking around while sightseeing is an excellent form of exercise. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you genuinely enjoy it. Vacation is not a time for forcing yourself to do obligatory workouts.

Related: 4 Body Positivity Tips For Embracing Beach Season

Splurge on a stunning swimsuit

Every woman deserves to have a bathing suit that she feels — and looks — fabulous in. In fact, it’s much smarter to invest in one quality swimsuit that fits your body flawlessly than to have a whole arsenal of mediocre ones you dread putting on. If you’re large-busted, for example, consider seeking out a swimsuit from a line that makes tops with traditional band/cup bra sizing.

If you’re shopping for a bikini, look for separates instead of sets so you can ensure you get the perfect fit on both the top and the bottom. Remember: The right bathing suit depends on your body type, but once you find the right one, you’ll be strutting down the beach with confidence in no time.

Be mindful

Mindfulness is one of the key components of body positivity. It’s all about staying aware and in the moment — thus preventing negative self-talk from sneakily creeping in. Luckily, vacation actually presents a phenomenal opportunity to practice mindfulness.

For one, a trip offers a chance to detox a bit from your digital devices. Of course, it may not be realistic to completely power them down — you may have loved ones you’re keeping in touch with or photos you’d like to share. However, it’s advisable to shut down your phone, tablet, etc. for at least a few hours each day. The less time you spend scrolling through texts, emails, and social media news feeds, the more you’ll be able to be present in your body.

Speaking of being present, vacation is a great time to start (or continue) meditating. Try starting your morning with at least 5 minutes of meditation, focusing on your breath and setting an intention for the day. This will help you to stay in a body positive frame of mind by flushing out any toxic thoughts that could be clouding your self-image. If those negative thoughts do come up, write them down in a journal — releasing them onto a page will hopefully get them out of your head while still allowing you to acknowledge them instead of trying to stuff them down.

Ultimately, mindful travel is about eliminating as many distractions as possible so that you can bring your full attention to all of your experiences.

While it might sound easier said than done, it is possible to take a body positive vacation. Try adopting the aforementioned strategies and you’re sure to feel calmer and more confident throughout your travels.

Related: How To Find The Most Flattering Swimsuit For Your Shape

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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!