Typically on Fashion Friday I focus on outfits you can see, not the foundation beneath. But, let’s face it. An ill-fitting bra can make or break an outfit or make you look slumpier or frumpier than you really are. Ain’t nobody got time for that!
Confession…shopping for, and trying on, bras is one of my LEAST favorite retail therapy excursions. In fact it’s more like retail torture, but if you want your clothes to look and feel great remember that your undergarments are just as important as the accessories and outfit you choose.
I just received a few must have lingerie basics for summer to review. I was in dire need of a new sports bra and I love the Lily of France Sports Bra in navy and hot pink they sent for my review. Not only is it uber comfy and supportive, but it’s reversible so it’s like having two sports bras in one. Featuring moisture wicking fabric, it’s perfect to wear under a t-shirt or tank top or even by itself.
I also received a white smoothing slip from Vassarette which I love and is great to wear in the summer with sheer skirts and dresses, like the one I wore for my niece’s wedding. It’s made with 20% spandex, so it helps give you a smooth and sleek look under clothes. It comes in black as well.
I was also sent the Vanity Fair Beauty Back full coverage bra in a fun neutral zebra print. I LOVE this bra and it’s my go to bra this summer. It’s incredibly comfortable and well-fitting as well as fun.
Need some tips for finding the perfect sports bra? Here are some great tips I found from Fitness Magazine.
1. Look for sports bras that encapsulate each breast in a separate chamber; they reduce bounce and support better than simple shelf bras.
2. Try to find sports bras that come in cup and band sizes rather than just small, medium, or large; they usually fit more precisely.
3. Look for strategically placed seams and stitching, which help cushion the breast. (Hate bumpy ridges under a fitted tee? Companies like Isis, Asics, and Champion make seamless sports bras.)
4. Pick high-performance fabrics that wick away sweat to minimize chafing (look for CoolMax or Double Dry).
5. Own a variety of sports bras, and when in doubt, choose a higher-impact bra for a lower-impact sport–never the other way around.
6. Get fitted by an expert. You can find bra fitters at most department stores or lingerie shops.
7. Before buying, jump, swing your arms, and move around. If a bra pokes, rubs, slips, jiggles, constricts your breathing, or bulges, put it back. Also, it should fit on the first hook; as it loses elasticity over time, you’ll need room to tighten it.
8. Rotate your bras and wash them regularly so you can get at least a year’s use out of each one.
Great tips! I have the hardest time finding good sports bras.
Me, too!
I wrote a post about bras today but it’s in draft! Too funny!
Ha! Great minds… š
Shopping for bras and swimsuits are my two least favorite retail excursions. Isn’t it wonderful when the stars align and you find something you love that looks great within 2-3 try on attempts?! I need to see this zebra bra you speak of…fun! Hope you’re having a great Summer, Jamie! š
Swimsuit shopping also stresses me out! The zebra print bra is very fun. It’s a pale grayish/taupe print so it’s not TOO crazy. š