Lingerie Lessons
Susan Hunter answers the most frequently used underwear queries
How will I know if I’m wearing the wrong bra size?
Marie Jo Avero
You know you are wearing the wrong size if:
1. There are gaps in the cup where breast tissue should be.
2. You get the ‘double-boob effect’ where the breast tissue is spilling out over the top of the cup.
3. If the back strap is rising-up. This is a quite common fault. While the cup seems to fit well, the back is too big, and like a seesaw, if it rises-up the back, the bust droops at the front, which is instantly aging.
How frequently should I get measured for a bra?
You should get fitted as frequently as you wish, or of course if you have lost/gained weight, or if any of the above is happening, ‘double-boob’, gaps or back strap rising.
How should your bra fit?
Your bra should be flat against the skin at the front between the cups (the gore). There should be a finger width space between the wire and the bust. This ensures the wire is sitting on the rib case and not on the bust. The back strap should be straight across, have some stretch, but not too much.
What is the bra shape trends for 2021?
The bra shape trends for spring 2021 are balconette and plunge with a lot of lace and colour. I am excited about three particular styles that we will receive in the New Year.
1. Prima Donna Alalia, coming in January. It is a half-formed balconette for the fuller bust size. This is unusual as balconette shapes can be difficult for larger sizes, but with the formation in the lower part of the cup it gives lift and shape. The final touch is its beautiful, coloured embroidery.
2. Andres Sarda Tiger is an all lace bra collection in a wonderful shade of Jade with contrasting terra cotta straps. It is coming in January too. And will also be available in the classic ivory colour, for those ‘quieter’ days!
3. Marie Jo Paloma formed cup bra that is a cross between a balconette and a plunge. It is coming in a baby pink. This style is perfect for the smaller bust. It is both smooth under clothing but not dull! It is due in February.
How best can I look after my lingerie?
The best way to look after your lingerie (and any piece of clothing that you really like) place it in a lingerie bag and wash at 30oC in a delicate wash in the washing machine. Use only a liquid suitable for silk. There are harsh cleaning agents in other detergents, but the one for silk will protect the elastic on your bras. And yes, you can wash them in a washing machine. I have never hand-washed anything in my life!
If there were 3-5 different bras that would cover most of your wardrobe, what would they be?
1. A full cup bra with good support in a neutral colour that suits your wardrobe.
2. A smooth cupped ‘tee shirt’ style bra for under knitted and stretchy tops.
3. A good strapless bra for sheer, off the shoulder and strappy outfits.
4. A plunge bra for low cut tops and dresses.
5. An all lace black number for those ‘special’ occasions!
I’m sending my partner to buy me lingerie – what should they know?
If you partner is coming to buy, all they need to know is your size. There is a multiple selection of styles, so once we have the size, we can talk to them about your lifestyle, clothes style and tastes to help with selection. It helps to know their favourite colour and the colour of the lingerie they have worn before too. If they have a few bright coloured bras in their drawer but normally wear their darks and pales, this means you should go for a practical colour.
How important is colour for lingerie?
Some customers only ever wear skin colour, others only wear black, and then there are those who like vibrant colours. Colour in lingerie is all down to personal preference. The mood on the day can play a big part in the choice. I suggest to customers though to flatter their skin tone. The last thing you want to do is end up having lingerie that clashes with your tone or, worse, makes you look washed out. If you have olive skin, with yellow undertones, you can get away with almost anything. We’re talking yellows, pinks, and blues here. Those with pale skin tones need to be more careful – bold colours work best. Darker tones can get away with most tones, but may look better in bright colours like purple.
Is there a particular fabric/shape that is universally flattering?
There is no particular fabric or shape that is universally flattering. I say bras are like glasses; different styles suit different people. That is why it is so important to go to a specialist shop (us!) and try a variety of styles to find the one that suits you best, and is suitable for the occasion.
Should I get fitted for a sports bra?
Deauville by Prima Donna
You should get fitted for a sports bra just as you should be fitted for any bra. All bras, sports or otherwise should do the job they are intended for, that is give you lift, a good shape that is pleasing to you, and be comfortable.
What is your bestselling bra?
We have two bestselling bras.
The first is Deauville by Prima Donna. It is a full, properly supporting bra with a gorgeous lace detail on the cup and the straps. It is both functional and pretty, both which are sadly lacking in many other brands. My goodness, I have seen some ugly bras in my time. The Deauville is always available in Black, Caffé, Ivory and Pure White but it also has a fashion colour every season. Size C to J cup and back measurement 30” to 46”. Price €94.90
The other best-selling bra is Marie Jo Avero. It has a full cup, a formed smooth cup, a balconette style and a wonderful push up plunge. It has a gorgeous daisy strap detail, comes in Black, Caffé Latte, Ivory and also in a fashion colour most seasons. Size A to F cup and back measurement 30” to 40”. Price from €79.90
When it comes to price: should you go for the best you can?
When purchasing a bra (or anything) go for the best quality that you can afford. My father used to say that he could not afford to buy cheap things. The better the quality, the better the look, the fit and the longevity.