“Bras Are Like Shoes” says Marlene Hassett, Simone Pérèle’s National Product & Fitting Expert, and she tells TheCarousel.com just how to make sure you find the right underwear choice for every situation.
“Not only do you need to be fitted for every new bra because like shoes, each brand can have unique design,size and style differences, but more importantly, you need a wardrobe of them to suit various dress codes and styles. You wouldn’t wear the same bra with every outfit no more than you would match every outfit of everyday to just one, classic black pump.”
After reviewing my wardrobe I realise that my own shoe collection falls into some pretty definitive categories: I have my everyday/shopping shoes, my work shoes, my Winter boots, my ultra-glam strappy shoes and my ‘only pull out for special occasions because they cost me a fortune and are way too high’ shoes.
Marlene advises me to think of my lingerie wardrobe in the same way, and suggests some styles that would fit the same categories to ensure I am prepped for every occasion:
The Everyday/Shopping bra: This is your classic t-shirt bra in a contoured-knit or slight padding for a natural shape, maximum comfort and versatility. This style can be worn under most casual garments and some brands even offer hypoallergenic properties to sooth the skin.
The Work bra: Every wardrobe needs a couple of basic work-wear bras, and the best styles are underwire in either microfiber knits or lace. Control underwire bras can offer full coverage with reinforced side panels and still remain seamless under tops. Ensure you have one in black, skin and white to cover the basic colour palette!
The Winter Bra: A seamless bra works well when you’re layeringform-fitting knits in the cooler months and need a smooth surface underneath. It’s also helpful to have a very supportive style to lift the bust and lengthen the space between your bust and waist, as thicker woollen knits can be very bulky so we tend to lose that feminine shape easily.
The Ultra-Glam Bra: Black. Lace. Nothing amps up an outfit more than the perfect black, lace bra underneath. Perfectly fitted, this little addition to your ensemble adds refinement, elegance and femininity. Half Cup, Full Cup, Lace-Lined Strapless, they all do the trick.
The Special Occasion Bra: Let’s be honest. This is the bra that will not be on for long, so the focus here is on aesthetics, not comfort. Explore some of the more provocative lingerie houses and invest in something that is going to knock someone’s socks off….
