Freya 4502 (click for details)

One of my friends forwarded me an article from the New York Times (Saturday, June 19, 2010) on a week long Fashion Week in New York targeted for Retailers with the purpose to buy more plus size fashions.  I absolutely loved the article and it truly resonated with my spirit and business.

TC Fine Intimates 4045

I am a champion for women of every size.  As a plus size diva myself, I applaud any manufacturer who provides women with options that make her feel beautiful and allow her to express her personal style regardless of size.  It is just a number, right?  In the bra fit world, the size issue has been resolved with designs for women from a D to K.  I remember my own journey of walking into a store to purchase a “G” and the stares and gasps were heard from the sales people.  As a D, I have a plethora of styles to choose from any day of the week, but I have not forgotten what it feels like to be the other woman.

TC Fine Intimates 4042 (click for details)

Now, I can personally service any client in this category and provide over 100 styles.  I find it inspiring that Lingerie companies got it together and developed sizes that fit for women with curves.  I guess the metaphor is true…“change begins on the inside first”.  Lingerie is an important connection to self, and besides with all those fabulous clothes coming down the pike based on the article, a woman will be able to wear anything including body conscious, trend, and designer.  In my opinion, shapewear will reign as the “Must Have Item” for women to embrace every trend.   How wonderful, intimate apparel and fashion have an exciting future together.

Hanro 1582 (click for details)

Finally, grab your sun screen, flip flops and tank top, summer is here!  The first item on my summer wardrobe list is always new tank tops.  Whether it’s pants, skirts or shorts, the tank is a multi-purpose life saving fashion essential.  If you’re on a summer getaway, how perfect to pull out a tank to go hang out at the pool or lounge and feel dressed.  Add some jewelry and voila!

Jockey 2050 (click for details)

I notice many women also become active during the summer with exercise regimens and outdoor activities.  Instead of using our ready to wear tank tops, purchase inexpensive camisoles and tanks that give you comfort and mileage for your money.

Cass 2100 (click for details)

When you want a next level look, the tank is still a fabulous solution for evening attire.  This time the tank takes shape as the outerwear essential, but also provides a seamless and “fit” solution.  Step out in confidence knowing you look flawless.

Make this a fashionista must have on your summer shopping list!

Free People F715F998 (click for details)

The debate continues with women around the country whether showing your bra straps is ok or not.  I am a firm believer in fashion/style, and sometimes a bra strap incorporated correctly makes sense.  A white tank top and zebra bra straps, I would have to arrest you.  I think we all agree that clean lines and all eyes on you is the goal.  The new trend is to layer your tanks.   A new twist on things is a return to the tube top.  It provides the support of a bra and gives another layer of “shape”.  Your bulges can smooth away with this solution/fashionista option

Get your glass, let’s toast to a sensational summer! Cheers.

TC 4043 (click for details)

A couple of years ago when I saw infomercials showcasing shapewear that had a bra peeking out of the top, I thought NO WAY!  I am not recommending nor would I ever consider wearing this myself.  As they say, never say never…In late fall, I tried one on a client who had mentioned she never could find shapewear that fits.  It was no joke, and I went through several collections until we pulled out the then “no way” undergarment.  Winner! My client beamed for joy and her challenge had ended.  It again proves that one style does not do it all for every woman. The torsolette is the hottest trend in shaping.  It allows you to wear the bra of your choice while the torsolette tones and trims your mid section.  As we enter into summer, this is a must have if you have had challenges wearing shapewear camisoles or one piece undergarments that have pulled you down, or not provided enough lift.

I would also recommend for people who have lower back pain.  I have had several clients report back that they stood taller, and they did not feel so frumpy and there lower back pain disappeared.   Remember, if you don’t have shape, lift and support your undergarments are not working for you.

Ed Hardy 1033-FSBG (click for details)

In the mid 90’s designer and icon Josie Natori began a line of lingerie camisole tops that you could wear out.  At first, my clients did not understand the concept.  They would always ask, is this to be seen?  I would always be so excited to show them how to incorporate the tee into their wardrobe.  I personally rocked an orange v-neck camisole of hers for years!Spring is a time to be creative in your shopping. 

Ed Hardy 1083-FSBG (click for details)

Advice:  On a budget?  Reinvent your entire wardrobe by purchasing three or four key camisoles.  Select different styles including no sleeve, long sleeve, prints and solids.  You will be amazed how your wardrobe will look brand new!

BW1100 Body Wrap

So many times when we get dressed in the morning it feels like a struggle to wear anything body conscious when we have “issues”.  This is no longer the case when so many amazing companies are designing shapewear that is sexy and a solution.  My favorite part of being a Lingerie Fit Expert is providing women with confidence.  It’s that go and do it diva attitude that we need to get dressed in the morning daily.

Sassybax EUT01

Spring for so many women is a dance of fear.  You go shopping and you see a dress or top and your heart begins to beat fast.  “Can I wear that?  What about my bacon and bulges?  Now you can stop those voices with shapewear that focus on the torso. Some provide a bra and others enhance the bra you wear from contour to strapless.  Ironically, as I was writing this blog I received a call from one of my clients who purchased a torso camisole.  She was raving about how much back support it provided.  She felt like it made her stand tall and more upright and her clothes fit like never before! This is a woman’s dream.  No fussing, pulling and tugging.

Select a style that enhances your wardrobe and your “fit” challenges.

Cass 1700 (click for details)

It’s amazing how time is flying by and Spring is just around the corner.  The fashion magazines are already showing all the trends.  I am an absolute fan of Doncaster.  I hosted an event in Stamford CT with a wardrobe stylist Noelle Ward who spoke about the trends for the season.  I loved her descriptions.  Americana is making a return (red, white and blue color stories),and orange is the new “it” color of the season.

Cass 2050 (click for details)

Noelle spoke about the fresh look of Black and White.  She wore it well with a spectacular white trench coat that is on my must have list.   It’s all about ruffles this year.  You can take a blouse and pair it with a pencil skirt, or the skirt has the dramatic flair and it is paired with a wide belt and a tunic top that is sleek and fitted.  As usual, women around the world sometimes cringe when they hear the word “fitted”.  Ladies, have no fear…shapewear is your friend for flawless dressing.  Take for instance the fitted knit top that works with a slim pant or skirt.

TC 4125 (click for details)

A shapewear camisole is a must have.  Cass is leading the season with shapewear that glides on the body and fits but also can be used as fashion statement because of the fabrication.  It does not look like a shaper.   A shapewear slip is also a perfect compliment to the season, or if you prefer a biker short holds you in place and does not ride.  Remember, you can adjust the levels of control now.  Sometimes a girl needs comfort and smooth lines for pants, skirts and clingy fabrics.  As you prepare for spring remember to make shapewear apart of your shopping list.  The fashion possibilities are unlimited…

Chantelle 3097 (click for details)

One of my favorite stylists, in fact I will add Master Stylists one of few in the world is Carla Mathis, Co-Founder of Body Beautiful.  A woman’s personal architect for looking sensational is how I describe her services.  They wardrobe you head to toe, and provide recommendations on style and fit.  The same technique that Carla has developed is used for styling women for award shows and for “personal branding”.  It all begins by asking the client or yourself, what are my winning features that make me unique?  This question begins the excavation for fabulous you… I find this a very positive approach to discovering how to look your best.  The winners on the red carpet certainly mastered this question to create that “Awe” moment.

Confidence comes from defining your own signature style – Make your own red carpet moments everyday

It’s award season and the Golden Globes always marks the kick off.  As usual the stars will have on their favorite designers and the need for the perfect undergarment is imperative.  Can you imagine zillions of people looking at every part of your body?  My bet is going to be that the long dress, no straps and body hugging is going to be the norm for most.   A one piece solution (if possible) would be my pick for the woman who does not want to deal with a bra and panty shaper.  As we have all seen on the red carpet, sometimes “the girls” are either in control or out.  Yikes!  It is not easy to find the perfect undergarment all the time as well all have experienced when going to a special occasion.  Here are some guidelines for your own red carpet moments:

• 

  TC 4555 (click for details)

  Select a dress that compliments your personality and your curves – Feeling confident when you enter the room is just as important as how the dress looks.

• Try on undergarments with the dress prior to leaving for the occasion.  Can you spell disaster?  I spoke to a Hollywood stylist about this and she says it happens more than you can imagine.
• Am I comfortable for a long period of time?  I use a term with my clients “take a test drive.  Can you sit down? Breathe?  Even the shapewear and intimate apparel you purchase for the dress should follow the same standard.

We will be bringing a recap of Golden Globe Dress Winners here at Lingerie Fit Expert.  Stay tuned….