Shape fx 34695 (click for details)

As we end July with a focus on must have items for the summer season, one of Lingerie Fit Expert favorite items is day wear/play wear.  These are the items that cross over between lounge and hitting the town.  The best part is the incredible shaping solutions that are inclusive in the items.  That’s right, you don’t have to add another undergarment to look sensational.  In the heat wave we just experienced, who would want to add on another layer.   The new “it” shoe is the platform. Add this with your shapewear item and your hot mama in the city!

Wacoal 854191 (click for details)

The Maxi Dress is my new style and fashion find for the summer.  I wear it to the pool, evening events and just lounging.  It was imperative that I find the right bra.  The straps are thin and the design of the dress is low plunge.  At first I almost rejected the style, then I found the perfect strapless to compliment.  Strapless is one of the best items a woman can own to take her wardrobe to another level.  I use the same strapless for my T-shirts.  By having a strap to attach, you have a multiple solution. The halter or low back is your friend.  Don’t forget, size is everything with a strapless bra.  Summer is a great time to check your fit and make sure your wearing the correct size bra.  Now there is a solution for A cups to J cups and beyond.  Show it off this summer girlfriend!

Hanky Panky 471202 (click for details)

The category of underwear for women has exploded!  Boy shorts, briefs, high cuts, thongs, and more.  I am simply amazed at how many pairs of underwear a woman could own if she wanted to have some for a whole month.

Cosabella AIREZ07ZL (click for details)

You would never get bored, and the color choices are endless.  This summer, I am encouraging all my clients to do pretty underwear that is both comfortable and sexy.  Is it possible?  Absolutely!  If you love boy shorts then try stretch lace or cotton.  If you like a classic brief or high cut, then micro fiber is going to be your friend for both coolness in hot climates, and a comfortable stretch if you like full coverage in the rear.

Jockey 1338 (click for details)

Because women tend to wear a lot more dresses this time of year, wearing colors and prints is easier.  Instead of basic black with a sun dress, try a fun print.

Whimsy by Lunaire 15232B (click for details)

Many women do not realize that pale pink is the new “nude”.  If you have a fair complexion, it’s a nice change from the ordinary choices we pull out of our drawer.

What’s your choice?  Be adventurous this summer.

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.

Annette S-302 (click for details)

The other day I was at the mall and saw a woman wearing a black sun dress that was stunning until I walked up to her closer and saw her bra straps.  I am sure we have all had wardrobe malfunctions and challenges.

Natori 132005 (click for details)

What’s a woman to do?  We as women should always be thinking about arming ourselves with summer wardrobe solutions that empower us to live life to the fullest.   I am certain that the woman I noticed only wanted to wear her beautiful dress, but was not equipped with the right undergarments. I believe in solutions, not problems, so my recommendation for the black dress diva would have been a bra that allows you to take off the straps and do a clear strap. The other option, and a big come back trend is the tube top.  The tube top can be a bra or an entire camisole that provides a shapewear solution as well.  I love this!

Annette S-301

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.

Michael Stars 349

Have you every received a call from someone who asked you to meet them for coffee or lunch and it’s only a moments notice?  When women get dressed daily, I believe we should have key items that can take us anywhere.  It’s simple to put on a tank top or t- shirt, but to get dressed and feel stylish is a challenge.

Havaianas 4115510 (click for details)

Designers such Michael Stars and Juicy have tapped into this niche of stylish comfort.   Supple cotton dressed up with details.  Don’t forget Lingerie Fit Expert Favorite Summer accessory every year…flip flops.  Cool, casual and always perfect for our laid back look.  The fun and flirty prints take playwear to another level.   The next time a friend calls, get ready with confidence…

E003-1P94 (click for details)

E002-1D37 (click for details)

As we get closer to Memorial Day, the time has come to begin our pre-summer shopping sprees.  This summer, you may want to consider a swim wardrobe.  I used to own one suit until I went to Hawaii last year and fell in love with resting and nesting by the pool.  Sometimes you want to be chic and getting splashed is not an option.  On another day, you are all about the waves.  Shopping for a swim suit that provides versatility is essential. You can mix and match the collection based on the mood or the need.  A short skirt is a perfect when you want to go to the bar or have a spa treatment and you don’t want to feel bare walking through the lobby.

E003-1P92

E002-1B88 (click for details)

This coupled with a halter top and heels is sexy and sophisticated for poolside social.  If you feel a little timid, then a long sarong is for you with a tankini.  This creates an illusion of a lounge dress.   Now that swim is sized by cup size, the options are unlimited.   Every woman should own a black bikini bottom.  As the seasons change, you can save money by mixing and matching with new tops every year.   Who is that glamorous woman at the pool? Oh it’s You!

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.