So, what’s a man to do?

Lingerie is a time-honored gift that men have given to ladies they hold dear, and it’s an undertaking not for the faint of heart. Lingerie is a very personal form of endearment (after all, it is the closest thing to her skin).  Though a daunting task, shopping for the right lingerie for her isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Guys, if lingerie is something you want to get your gal, I can give a few hints to the first-time buyer for female undergarments.  Below I have listed three MUSTS for offering lingerie to your leading lady.

First Lingerie-Giving MUST: Know her right size.

Don’t outright ask her for her measurements, since this will give your intended gift idea away, not to mention make her feel uncomfortable and question why.  Use a little bit of stealth, if you have to, in order to make the right size choice.  Peek through her dresser drawers. Next time your lady is in the shower, or sleeping, or out, that’s your chance to do a little research. Grab a pen and paper and get ready to jot down some notes. Go through tags. Look for labels printed inside her bras or panties – specifically check for items you know she finds comfortable or wears often, as these are likely a more accurate size guide.This step may prove to be the most challenging, but trust me, it’s all much easier from here.

During your reconnaissance mission, take the opportunity to quickly scan her selection of bras, panties, and sleepwear. Get a feel for her style. This will prove useful for the next step.

A long satiny nightie with lace is perfect for any classy femme fatale.

Second Lingerie-Giving MUST: Think of her personal style.

Just like you have a certain taste in underwear, so does your lady. Does she have lots of lace? Is all of her underwear matching sets, or does she have different colors and styles of bras with separate panties? Is she an all-white kind of gal, or does she lean toward bright colors in her panty stash? What type of fabrics does she like? Were they stretchy, natural cotton, or do all of her underthings have a silky feel to them? Most importantly, what kind of woman is she? Does she prefer a simple, sportier approach to lingerie, or have risqué preference for lace and silk?  Is she a more flamboyant gal who loves each fabrics and colors, or even a classy lady with timeless retro sensibilities?

If you want to swing it safe and are overwhelmed by the color, material, and cut choices of lingerie and sleepwear; your best bet is to go with a matching two-piece set, typically in black or white, or her favorite color (if you remember it!).

Third Lingerie-Giving MUST: Opt for Nice or Naughty over Trashy.

If there is a matching set for the bra you want, make sure to get the complete package – bra, panty/thong/hipster, and garter belt. If buying a garter belt, buy stockings to go with them also, so her ensemble is ready-to-wear and she won’t have to go and buy the missing items by herself.   Think about how confident she is (or should be), and make sure your gift can help her feel wonderful about her body and herself.  If she has extra-long legs, try a short chemise or kimono.  (Read 5 Ways To Love Your Lingerie And Your Body for tips on how to make the most of her assets when choosing lingerie.)

A satin kimono will make her feel wrapped in luxury.

You’re offering her the gift of lingerie and the feeling of pampered beauty she deserves, so that you can enjoy seeing her in (and out) of her outfit, but if she doesn`t feel comfortable wearing it because it doesn’t work for her personal style or tastes, she probably won`t put it on again.  The gift is for her, first and foremost.  So, if she wouldn’t be comfortable in a corset, don’t force one on her.

Maybe a sultry chemise (nightgown) or a teddy (like a bodysuit) is more suited to her style, so give her one of those in a fabric she’ll love, like silk or satin or ultra-soft viscose or cotton.  This gift is about her unique style and wonderful personality, and anything you get for her – especially feminine undergarments – should reflect that.

No matter what you choose, presentation matters, so wrap up your present formally and enticingly. Get a big bow or beautiful paper. Make it a game for extra adventure –  if you get different pieces, have her open separate packages or hide them in different rooms.  Whatever you do, make sure you present your gift with a charming smile and a kiss she won’t be able to resist.

Do you have tips for shopping for her? Comment below, leave me an email, follow us on Twitter, or like us on Facebook!

-Jenn

jenn@nowthatslingerie.com

Web Credits-

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/alicia-vianga/men-lingerie-shopping_b_1190138.html

Photo Credits

All products shown above are available at Now That’s Lingerie 

Midnight Kiss chemise by Blush Lingerie

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=222054-midnight-kiss-satin-and-lace-long-nightgown-blush-lingerie

Catherine sheer lace and mesh teddy by Arianne Lingerie

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=2007-catherine-teddy-arianne-lingerie

Great Expectations Satin and Lace Kimono by Blush Lingerie

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221555-great-expectations-35-inch-satin-kimono-with-lace-blush-lingerie

Featured Image:

Red Luscious Corset from Blush

 http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=223541-luscious-strapless-semi-sheer-lace-corset-with-garter-attachments-blush-lingerie

Amour Chemise and String Set from Blush

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=223449—amour-30-inch-chemise-with-demi-bra-and-string-set–blush-lingerie 

Stop Wearing Uncomfortable Undergarments

This Fall in Luxe Wire-Free Bra by Warners offers sultry uplift & comfort.

It sounds so simple, but it’s something that so many women struggle with every day. The best way to feel better about both your body and your lingerie is to get rid of everything that doesn’t fit and replace it with garments that do. If your weight or body shape has changed recently, it’s a great idea to get refitted – some experts say that cup and back size can change often, and you should get fitted at least every six months! (Click here to read How Often Should I Renew My Bras? By Bra Doctor).

Try A New Style

The winter blues are a great excuse to slip into something more stunning, fun, and sexy; but even just changing up the basics of your lingerie wardrobe will add some excitement to your day. Have you always worn briefs? Try an equally comfortable but booty-emphasizing boy short. Always worn cotton bras? See what a lacy bra does for you.  Go for a navy blue or purple bra instead of your traditional black.  Even trading a basic for another basic will spice up your closet and give you different silhouettes to play with.

Sizzle in this curve-flattering Marilyn lace bustier by Arianne!

Emphasize Your Assets

This is the time of year when everyone freaks about their bodies and goes into over-drive trying to get into their best shape before spring (and later bathing suit season) arrives. Because of this, it’s also a good time to remember all the things you love about your body, and find ways of emphasizing the aspects you love with lingerie and clothing. An hourglass shape looks great with a corset, like the Marilyn Lace Bustier Bra by Arianne Lingerie, and the structure hides a tummy. A short robe, like the Decadence Satin Kimono by Blush Lingerie, will highlight long legs, especially in a pair of high heels. Feeling good about your assets will help you shift the focus from any insecurities you may have.

Out with the Old, in with the New

Even changing the color of your basics can be mood-altering.

Are you the kind of person who wears underwear until there are holes in them? Do you keep bras that are extremely stretched out because you might have to wear them on “laundry day”, or own several pairs of old jeans you’re keeping around just in case you decide to paint your bedroom? Honestly, it’s finally time to get rid of them. I myself suffer from holding on to clothing too long – I’ve thought many times “No one can see the holes but me”… until of course I go to the gym. Worn-out clothing doesn’t make you feel good, and keeping items that you’ll never wear again just overwhelms your mind and your closet.  Donate them or trash them, and spend time finding new clothing that you’ll actually enjoy wearing.  Read about how you can recycle your bras to make someone else feel good, too.

Wrap yourself in luxury in this short satin Decadence kimono by Blush.

Spend Time in the Good Stuff

It’s fun to have fancy, exciting lingerie, but it’s less fun if it stuck in the back of the drawer all the time.

Fancy lingerie is often the most expensive, yet often these are the pieces we wear the least (maybe for the sake of preserving them). So spend some time in your best lingerie, either relaxing around the house, going out for a night on the town, or even heading to work. You know you feel great in it, so why not wear it around? It’ll feel like a special, sexy secret that will have you glowing.  And nothing is sexier than confidence.

Share with us by commenting below, on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and on our Facebook page!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Image Sources
Fall In Luxe Wire-Free Bra by Warners:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=2060-fall-in-luxe-wire-free-bra-with-lift-warners-lingerie

Marilyn Lace Bustier by Arianne:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5339–marilyn-lace-bustier-with-boning-and-padded-underwire-bra-arianne-lingerie

Super Soft Romance Seamless Bra by Triumph International:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=1983-super-soft-romance-padded-molded-underwire-bra-triumph-lingerie

Decadence Satin and Lace Kimono by Blush:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221255-decadence-satin-kimono-with-lace–blush-lingerie

Racks of gorgeous lingerie

When I got to the event, I walked in and couldn’t believe how elegant and swanky everything looked. There were several clothing racks filled with lingerie I couldn’t wait to gush over, a table covered with pajamas from the new line, a huge screen airing ads, sexy posters, and a snack bar with cookies and drinks.

Marketing Materials and Pajama Table

After introductions, the marketing experts lead me through the designers thinking for the new line, while walking me past racks of new bras, panties, nighties and corsets. What struck me as most interesting about this new collection is that Blush groups the collections by several different styles and themes. This way of grouping is a departure from other brands, which may have running themes throughout a collection that binds it together cohesively as a whole. The benefit to the way Blush creates groups of styles is that different women who are looking for different styles can find what they want with a Blush look. The styles for 2012 range from sweet to sexy, romantic to daring, and young to mature.

Love Always Bralette and Hipster

This range can be best exhibited by two of my favorite looks from the line, Love Always and Naked Envy. Love Always, with a pink flower print and lots of lace detailing, is on the more youthful side, and extremely romantic, even in the name! Naked Envy is a collection so popular from Fall 2011 that they carried it over into Spring with additional styles in white, just in time for wedding season. The look for Naked Envy is bold and sexy, but the intricate, delicate lacework adds some light touches as well.

As obvious from the above looks, lace will continue to be a huge trend in 2012. A welcome addition

Naked Envy Teddy in White for Spring

to the Spring line, a wonderful way to cure the winter blues, is pink lace, beautifully exhibited by the Sweetest Sin chemise  (carried over from Fall, in new colors). The design of this piece perfectly incorporates the gorgeous and elaborate design of the lace in the “petals” that overlap from one section of lace to the next. The lace detailing is actually one of my favorite aspects of the collection overall. In addition to

Sweetest Sin Chemise in Pink

the thoughtful design and unparalleled quality of the lace, the designers came up with clever and appealing ways to work lace into unexpected places. One example is the lace panel on the hip of the Great Expectations Pajama Pant. Though it’s unfortunately hard to see in this picture, there is a triangular panel of cream-colored lace on each hip, a delightful surprise that makes these pajamas all the more lovely.

There were other surprise details as well. This lace teddy from the Luscious group, though certainly striking from the front, is unassuming in the sense that it has an even more stunning back. The top section snaps together in the back like a bra, and there is a huge cut-out all the way to the very bottom of the small of the

Great Expectations Pajama Pant

back. I have rarely seen a teddy cut this way, and the effect is breathtaking. The design brings the eyes to all the right places while being exciting and definitely fashion-forward.

Sophisticated new takes on florals were a surprise for me as well. These florals were on display with the Free Love group, a collection of pieces made all the more thrilling by their sheerness! Who knew floral designs could be so naughty? This group is available in both seductive black and, somewhat more interestingly, angelic

Luscious Teddy

white, highlighting even further the mix of demure and the dangerous. Another group incorporated interesting florals as well. The Idylle style features lavishly detailed flower embroidery that creates almost a print

Free Love Nightie

across each piece. I was especially smitten with the demi corset, which had the beautiful embroidery down the center of the corset, creating a flattering, slimming, eye-catching  silhouette. The mesh paneling brings the whole look together and reveals a more scandalous side to the piece as well.

Another group features embroidery like the Idylle style did, and took the detail to all new levels by combining it with lace. The Amour group has pieces filled with dainty, ornate embroidery that is just dazzling. The underwire bra and hipster panties show the group’s chic style. The best part about this group is that they have new sizes for bras, going all the way up to a 36F! There are other styles available in those larger

Idylle Demi Corset and Thong

sizes as well, so be sure to check it out.

Another important and exciting design element in the line was a throw-back to more retro styles and designs. The premiere group with this

Amour Underwire Bra and Hipster Panty

design is Spellbound, which combines a 50s look with a more modern flair. Black polka dots accentuate each piece, and cuts like high-wasted briefs highlight the vintage feel. My favorite piece is the balconnette bra, which in addition to having the structured look of a 50s bra has a practical, modern touch of also being able to convert to strapless. The chemise can also be worn with or without straps, a very unique touch! The marketing posters for this collection has a fun retro feel as well, with a Brigitte Bardot-esque blond bombshell modeling the line.

All in all, the 2012 Spring Line shows an exhilarating and delightful collection from Blush which will be sure to thrill lingerie fans everywhere. I had a marvelous time looking at everything up

Spellbound Balconette Bra and High-Waisted Panty

close and getting the behind-the-scenes story on each piece.  The people running the event were so welcoming and knowledgeable, especially about Blush and their vision for the Spring line. Thanks to Blush and the Bromley Group for a wonderful

Spellbound Poster - Love It!

evening of fun, lingerie, and cookies.

Note: All Blush collections available on Now That’s Lingerie.

Comment here below, connect with us over Twitter (@nowthatslingeri), and on our Facebook page!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Image Sources & References

Sweetest Sin Lace Chemise by Blush
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=222348–sweetest-sin-31-inch-semi-sheer-lace-chemise-with-1-quarter-underwire-blush-lingerie

Great Expectations Satin Pants by Blush

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221536-great-expectations-satin-33-inch-pants-with-lace-blush-lingerie

Naked Envy Collection by Blush
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/collection.php?collection=naked%20envy&brand=blush%20lingerie 

Even though the average bra size seems to be increasing, for reasons such as obesity, plastic surgery, sometimes the birth control pill, etc., smaller cup sizes are getting more emphasis within the lingerie market.  Allow me to give you some tips on how to shop lingerie for your smaller bust.

3033 Petites Lacy Convertible Padded Bra by Triumph

First, you absolutely have to make sure you’re wearing the right bra size. As we all know, the majority of women (over 80%) are not wearing the right bra size. As a petite figure, it may be hard to come to peace with your bra size, but wearing the wrong size is definitely not helping.

Most people think when you have a smaller bust, you automatically need to add padding to make your breasts look bigger.  It is not always necessary because the lighter the fabric, the better and more natural a small bust will look.  So, choose fabrics like lace, which will make you feel sexy and free.

Another rule for shopping for petite bras: be aware that the more of your breasts we see, the bigger your chest appears. For example, in a balconnette bra (three-quarter coverage) or a demi cup bra (half coverage), the breasts are slightly more exposed than a full cup bra. This gives the impression of a slightly fuller chest rather than a flattened chest, making the most of your natural gifts.  (Avoid the tube bra because it flattens you.)

Great Expectations semi-sheer wire-free bralette by Blush

Also, the advantage with smaller breasts is that you don’t need that much support! So, you can opt for the fashionable triangle bra.  Plus, it creates spaces between the breasts, which creates the illusion of a fuller bust.

I hope those tips will enhance you confidence and help you embrace your petite bust!

Are you a small-busted gal? Tell us what your rules are when shopping for petite bras! Comment here below, or tell us on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and on our Facebook page.

Jessica

jessica@nowthatslingerie.com

Image sources & references

Great Expectations Sheer Lace And Satin Wire Free Bralette By Blush Lingerie:

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221510-great-expectations-sheer-lace-and-satin-wire-free-bralette-blush-lingerie

3033 Petites Lacy Padded Push-Up bra with Convertible Straps by Triumph International:

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=3033-petites-all-over-lace-padded-underwire-push-up-bra

Featured Image:

(Left) Grenier Serenade Semi-Sheer Lace Bustier

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=7578-grenier-bustier

(Center) Triumph Seamless Push-Up Bra

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=1738-push-up-collection-push-up-bra-triumph-lingerie 

(Right) Coquette Underwired Lace Demi Bra by Montelle

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=9012-coquette-underwire-lace-demi-bra-montelle-lingerie

Other sources

http://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Flattering-Lingerie-for-a-Small-Bust

The History of Undergarments

What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word Lingerie? Lace, silk, or sheer fabrics with sexually appealing style lines and finishes usually come to mind when we refer to the term. In this century, Lingerie has been made out to be much more than how it started. But let’s take a quick look into the history of this industry; sometimes looking backward can help you understand how and why we’re moving forward.

Lingerie was worn and created with 3 basic purposes: To help with hygiene, to alter a woman’s outer body shaping, and for modesty. It wasn’t until the 19^th century that Lingerie became much more visually appealing. During this time, undergarments such as the corset became a lot smaller in size and shape and became a lot less bulky. The 20^th century was a little more daring as the industry began to experiment with the overall shape of the undergarments.

The Corset

Can you believe that today, there are over 45 types of undergarments classified as Lingerie? And most of these items usually incorporate fabrics such as Lycra, lace, polyester, silk, nylon, and satin! It’s interesting that despite all the changes in life, technology and the world over the past few centuries, the main purposes for Lingerie today are not much different than how and why Lingerie began to be such an important part of our every day lives. We still wear our undergarments to assist in giving us the type of shape, hold, or lift that we desire, except now the selection is so diverse, that we are able to choose whatever style we want for ourselves.

We also wear many of our undergarments to assist in personal hygiene, like helping create a buffer between your sensitive skin and your clothing.  (Natural fibers like bamboo and cotton come into play here, with hygienic properties like moisture absorbency, breathability – and bamboo is naturally antibacterial!) And, although some people have decided that modesty is over-rated and do not wish to wear undergarments for that purpose, many wear their undergarments for a mental comfort. The major change in the industry regardless of the purpose of the undergarment, has most definitely been the level of comfort of which the design, fabrics and shape has been given during production. There are so many different shapes and sizes, colors, fabrics, care instructions, and inner materials used so that the consumer can choose which of these things are most important to them at the time of purchasing.

The Perfect Fit

So what’s new to the lingerie industry?  The standard on fit. This system started in the UK and is very quickly becoming an important industry standard all over North America and the US. Basically, this entails the notion that anyone working in any Lingerie store will be able to properly size and fit any customer who walks through the door prior to purchasing. This is a system that was used primarily in smaller, more expensive boutique type Lingerie stores to enhance the over-all experience.  Now it has become so crucial to people’s lives that they have undergarments that are comfortable and fit properly to their body type and figure, even the bigger retail stores are inheriting this method; soon it will be a mandatory standard.  (The Bra Doctor approves.)

It is interesting to take a quick look into the history, to be reminded of things that are taken so easily for granted since they are just naturally a part of our every day lives.  Now that we have taken a glance at how it all began we are able to appreciate the advancements and all the industry changes that are even still adapting and working to take effect! This is certainly one industry that will forever be changing, growing, and learning from its past – for our benefit!

In which direction do you think the lingerie industry is going next?

Comment here below, e-mail me, or share it with us on Twitter and Facebook!

Kathryn

kathryn@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credits and Sources: 

Historic Eras of Undergarments
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingerie

Photo-The history of undergarments
http://www.ranksmercantile.com/product_info.php?cPath=14&products_id=176

Photo-The Corset
http://karleeaturner.blogspot.com/

Photo-The Perfect Fit
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=2978-full-fashion-strapless-underwire-bra-triumph-lingerie

Featured Image – Kestos Vintage Poster
http://www.theadgallery.co.uk/Kestos-They-walk-in-beauty-1930s 

If you are looking to update your closet, it’s the go-to texture for any season, any occasion. Lace is delicate, yet durable-somehow managing the stress of the harsher wash cycle when you accidentally throw a pair of lace panties in with the darks.

It’s affordable, flirty, and fun-nothing works like lace when you want to dress up a plain pair of panties or a ho-hum white bra. Lace is also easily accessible-it’s everywhere, and it’s something that both you and your significant other can agree looks fantastic on you, with the lights on or off.

The Bra Doctor Brigitte Collection's Hot Bra and Panty Set.

Fortunately, lace is making a comeback.  Lace isn’t what you only see on your granny’s section of the intimate apparel department-it’s showing up on runway shows, junior clothing, and in the raciest lingerie ads that you see on TV. Lace reminds us that women are delicate, yet strong, creatures that deserve to be pampered and adored.

Lace has been around for hundreds of years-and women from all cultures around the globe are dressed in the frilly material. The material looks good on almost everyone-no matter how old you are, the color of your skin, your height, or your frame. Lace makes an excellent accessory to almost any outfit-from bridal attire to even pajamas!

Vicky Chemise, found on nowthatslingerie.com

Lace has shown us that the fabric isn’t going anywhere for a long time. Make sure that you show off both your haute couture side, and your classical one, by investing in lace.

Questions? Comment below, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, or email us!

Jenn

jenn@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credits:

Bra and Panties from the Bra Doctor’s Brigitte Collection-http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=4002b-brigitte-sheer-lacy-underwired-full-cup-bra-bra-doctor-lingerie

Vicky Chemise- http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=8125-vicky-lined-lacy-nightgown-arianne-lingerie

Featured top image:

Fuschia bra from Triumph http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=1838-push-up-collection-lacy-push-up-bra-triumph-lingerie

Sweetest Sin Lace bra by Blush http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=222308-sweetest-sin-semi-sheer-lace-balconette-underwire-bra-blush-lingerie

1.   Skinny Jeans or Slim Legged Trousers

Photo Credit: http://stealthestyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/2011-01-05_2133.png

Yes, skinny jeans are still in style. While there may be a rise on the 60s inspired flare jean, the skinny jean should remain as a staple item in your wardrobe. The slim cut of the leg allows your leg to appear longer therefore making you look that much taller and leaner, who wouldn’t want that?

2.   Chunky Heels 

Photo Credit: http://www.talkshoes.com/images/2011/03/Marni.jpg

It seems that this fall we may be revisiting the 1960s. Chunky heels, which were praised in the 60s have made a huge comeback this fall and the best part is these retro heels are available in every color of the rainbow. We don’t know about you but we can’t wait to get a pair of chunky heels.  Our feet deserve a break from those super skinny stilettos!

3.   Outerwear

Photo Credit: http://fashion-allure.com/style/wp-content/uploads/Burberry-Prorsum-Jourdan-Dunn.jpg

Outerwear is definitely a big trend for fall and while it may be an obvious one, this outwear will become the statement piece of your outfit. Patchwork, military, bohemian, fur and colour blocking are some of the styles of outwear we can look forward to. Oh, and capes are still in style, so make sure yours is ready to go.

4.   Lace

Photo Credit: http://gossipygirlz.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/fall-2011-Fashion-Trends-Lace-Plaid-and-Bright-Hues-7.jpg

Lace is everywhere you look, and there is a pretty good reason for that. Lace is one of this season’s top trends. Neutral or colored lace can be worn with almost anything. All we ask is that if you are planning to wear head to toe lace, just keep your make up demure.

5.   Tribal

Photo Credit: http://coquette.blogs.com/.a/6a00d83451c76a69e20147e2c1b7f2970b-pi

We started to see the tribal trend over the summer in jewelry, but as we make the transition into fall the tribal trend is changing with us. We are seeing the tribal touch of every type of clothing and accessories with fringes or prints. For now stick with tops and accessories and as the weather gets colder then branch out into boots and sweaters.

Ask me about fashion!

Erin

erin@nowthatslingerie.com

An example of "over-spill"

The main advantages of wearing this type of bra is that you avoid “over-spill” (bulge over the neckline of your bra) and ‘gaping button syndrome”, so your clothes will look and feel better, and make you look thinner and younger too! . They work by compressing and de-emphasizing the breasts using a combination of power-stretch fabrics, molding and cut. They’re designed to fit snugly and securely.

The underbust band and straps are the most important structural parts of this type of bra since they take the majority of the weight. Wider, padded straps and a leotard (“U”) back increase comfort and reduce the dreaded back bulge (plus help avoid “falling strap syndrome”). The cups are usually either wireless using seamed and molded panels to lift the breasts, or underwired with fully molded (contour) cups.  It’s important that the fabrics used in minimizer bras have a powerful amount of stretch and excellent recovery, since they’re required to compress without “slackening” and for the elasticity to not be compromised by frequent washing.  Another thing too, it helps if the cups are made from satin to eliminate any  “sticking ” or “bunching up” of your clothing during the day.

The 5363 Minimizer Wireless Bra from Naturana

With the newest minimizer bras, the construction is very similar in principle to sports bras, so a bra manufacturer who is known for their minimizers will usually also produce an excellent line of sports bras and full support bras.  One such manufacturer is Naturana Lingerie. They have a gorgeous and extensive minimizer range at Now That’s Lingerie as well as a great range of sports bras. Take a look at their 5363 & 5063  Minimizer Wireless Bra and it’s matching 0063 & 0017 High Rise Medium Full Control Panty Girdle available in four satin colors and two floral satin jacquards. Also in this range are two other great bra shapes – the 7363 Minimizer Bra (an underwired, molded version) and the 5663 Minimizer Front Opening Bra.

Sheer Tapestry Minimizer Bra by Olga Lingerie

Olga Lingerie’s 35984C Sheer Tapestry Minimizer is a sleek, seamless bra which claims to reduce bust projection by up to 1 inch! This underwired, molded bra in pretty floral jacquard has built up straps and a wide back band for added comfort.

The 841892 Splendid Curves Luxury Minimizer by Triumph is a stunning, seamless, satin underwire bra. It’s super-comfortable with slightly cushioned straps and a “U” shaped back and yet very pretty with little lace details to perfectly match its sexy lace panty – the 8442 Splendid Lace Maxi.

The 841892 Splendid Curves Luxury Minimizer by Triumph

So try out a gorgeous new silhouette with one of the minimizer bras available from NowThatsLingerie, I guarantee you’ll be very satisfied with the results!

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

Flower Curves Seamless Bra by Valisere Lingerie

Plus Sizes Three-Section Full Cup Underwired Bra by Naturana Lingerie ($35.00)
Full support with wide straps and wings for maximum comfort aside, the best part of this bra is that the cups are divided into three sections. This type of cup is extremely flattering because it creates a gorgeous, perfectly round shape! Looks great under any top, but especially under form-fitting t-shirts and tanks, which show off your lovely form.

Flower Curves Seamless Bra by Valisere Lingerie ($29.00)
This molded underwire bra is seamless, rendering it undetectable under even the tightest or thinnest of tops. However, you’ll probably want to be seen in this number, with its lovely decorative floral embroidered straps! I love pretty straps like this for summer, when tank tops become a main staple of my wardrobe. Usually a fashion faux-pas, exposed straps are totally acceptable when they’re intended to attract attention!

Marianne Balconette Bra by Bra Doctor

Marianne Balconette Bra by Bra Doctor Lingerie ($28.00)
This bra is sensual and seductive with its black lace and deep violet embellishments. It’s also super-comfy, with a cotton inner lining and a cut that is high-enough to prevent falling out while still offering a gorgeous view of your decolletage! Balconette bras are sultry in general, but this Bra Doctor bra especially exemplifies the beauty/affordability combo I’m talking about! What’s more, there are matching panties! Woo!

Emma Padded Push-Up Bra by Blush Lingerie ($32.00)
Lingerie is popping up in all the latest fashion mags and with its great prices, it can appear in your closet, too! The Emma modal collection by Blush is sweet, simple and sexy without being over the top. This push-up bra gives you a little extra boost, while the floral lace wings and the lovely little rose-bud detail front and center act as enticing icing on the cake.  Plus, there’s a little gadget in back that helps cross your straps too!

Terri Balconette Bra by Bra Doctor Lingerie ($19.97)
Okay, as you’ve probably guessed I love lace. This dainty, feminine material is taking over the runways and the once luxury item is now available to one and all – I couldn’t be happier! The beautiful slate blue color of this bra is eye-catching without being gaudy and the overall look is one of youthful European sophistication. Plus, did you see that price?! Irresistible!

Don’t forget to sign up for our Free Lingerie Contest Giveaway and you’ll even save 10% on your next order, no minimum purchase required! Whether you’re on a budget or not, this is a must-enter contest with an amazing perk!

Ciao for now!

Rachel

Babydoll film poster from 1956

It’s popularity was further enhanced by Hollywood where movies during the 1960′s often showed women in pouffy babydolls and starlets were regularly photographed wearing more sexy versions in their publicity shots.

Much loved for their comfort (and were really quite practical in the days before air conditioning), short, airy babydolls were a cool (and cute) alternative to the traditional pajamas or long nightgowns worn previously.

Typical Gil Elvgren pinup girls wearing babydolls

Furthermore the glamour painter Gil Elvgren and his portrayal of playful calender pin-ups in the 50′s and early 60′s had a huge influence on the babydoll image.

Vintage babydoll ad

Basically the babydoll is a loose term for a nightdress which is at least 6 inches above the knee and usually more! It can be either fairly conservative and worn regularly as a nightie or really quite sensual and provocative. Many are sheer or lacy and may be open at the front, and they lend themselves well to “fantasy lingerie” costumes.

A recent term has been adopted for an even shorter version of the babydoll – “the Camidoll”. They are commonly worn with a matching thong, g-string or panty for modesty. Babydolls and camidolls have become very popular for the past couple of seasons taken literally and worn as outerwear, worn over leggings, pantyhose or skinny jeans.

Blush Lingerie has some adorable little babydolls and camidolls. My favorite is the Heartbreaker Chiffon Camidoll – it’s so pretty with it’s mini ruffles and retro chiffon flower detail at the center front, in blissfully light chiffon it’s the perfect summer nightwear.

The Heartbreaker Chiffon Camidoll by Blush Lingerie

And Blush’s Sweet Nothings Dot-Mesh Sheer Push Up Camidoll conjures up good old fashioned Hollywood romance with it’s sexy, frilly open front and padded push up cups to accentuate and boost your cleavage!

Sweet Nothings Dot Mesh Sheer Push Up Camidole by Blush Lingerie

The Black Lace Nightgown by One 2 One is a seductive and lacy figure hugging babydoll nightgown, very wearable and comfy, and it’s built in shelf bra will give you that added support, (you can even wear it under one of your more sheer dresses!).

So go and be fabulous tonight in our lovely babydolls and camidolls from nowthatslingerie.com. Ask me anything about lingerie and I’ll get back to you with an answer: teresa@nowthatslingerie.com, maybe I’ll even feature it in a blog!

Teresa

Gil Elvgren images from Polyvore: Pinup Girl – Polyvore

Vintage babydoll ad from Missy Vintage: Missy Vintage: A tale of a pensioner, a sunbed and vintage negligees