Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Velda Lauder Corsetiere Purple Heart 2012 Collection

Velda Lauder Corsetiere’s latest collection, Purple Heart, is “all about the sensuality within a woman” and designed to appeal and fit any woman curvaceous or slender, Amazonian or petite.

“This collection is for all women. It is our most sophisticated to date and reflects the experience and creativity gained over the last two decades,” said Velda Lauder, the designer and founder. “We have fitted thousands of women into corsets and know exactly what is needed for each piece to feel and look like a couture piece no matter what the body shape of the woman.”

Velda noted that this collection fuses all the sculptural techniques of a classic Velda Lauder corset with the aesthetics gained from working with celebrities, corsets and sexy lingerie internationally. The collection looks amazing and is wonderfully photographed. We’re looking forward to seeing more from Velda and a chance to see these pieces in person as well.

We especially love Velda’s Mission Statement: “The gift of the corset is its ability to free the inner strength and beauty of a woman in an instant”. Scroll down to learn more and see more images from her 2012 collection.

Monday, April 28, 2014

Matthew Williamson Collaborates With Triumph Lingerie

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON has teamed up with lingerie label Triumph for its new London Fashion Week initiative. The British designer has created a bespoke Triumph underwear set in celebration of the retailer's second season as official intimates outfitter for the London shows.

Other designers to create artistic underwear on behalf of the project include Louise Gray, Fyodor Golan and Felder Felder. The creations will be on display at the Maison Triumph pop-up store in Covent Garden during London Fashion Week (from February 15 to 19).

"I've enjoyed collaborating with Triumph on this sexy lingerie set," said Williamson. "I wanted my piece to be both glamorous and flirtatious. Whilst the lace is traditional for lingerie, I've added a touch of decadence with clustered floral embellishments and ostrich feathers."

The temporary space will also stage public Q&A sessions with fashion and beauty experts throughout its run, including with brand ambassador Helena Christensen, make-up artist Ruby Hammer and British Fashion Council chief executive Caroline Rush. Artist David Longshaw has also created a multi-media art installation, which will be displayed inside the store.

Additionally, Williamson has also designed a limited edition T-shirt, which Triumph customers will receive free with any purchase over £80 made during London Fashion Week - at either the Maison Triumph pop-up or at the brand's Stratford and Bluewater stores.

Maison Triumph will be open to the public from February 15-19, located at 71 Monmouth Street, Covent Garden, London.

Saturday, April 26, 2014

Panache joins the CoppaFeel

Yet another sexy lingerie brand has announced that it is getting behind CoppaFeel!’s #BraHijack breast cancer awareness campaign.

D+ lingerie company Panache has announced that it will introduce the #BraHijack ‘boob check’ labels, which encourage women to check their breasts for the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, to its Cleo by Panache (pictured) and Sculptresse brands for the Autumn/Winter 2014 and Spring/Summer 2015 seasons.

BraHijack is one of many initiatives to raise awareness of breast cancer amoung younger women from CoppaFeel!, and it is the charity’s hope to one day see the label in every bra sold in the UK. The aim is to help women understand how to check their breasts and make it a daily routine from a young age, rather than something that is often seen as daunting.

‘Anything that can be done to raise awareness is of paramount importance,’ says Kristin Hallenga, founder of CoppaFeel! ‘These little labels, which are sewn into the inside of bras, could save lives and they are such a simple addition.’

Panache sells around 450,000 pieces in its Cleo by Panache and Sculptresse brands worldwide, so the addition of the #BraHijack label to these bras will give a huge boost to the campaign.

According to Danny Power from Panache, he was inspired to join the campaign when he heard Kristin talk about her charity. ‘It’s not about driving sales for Panache or creating funds for a charity. It’s a simple reminder for young women to check their breasts and be aware of breast cancer and I’m proud Panache will play a part. We feel our Sculptresse and Cleo collections lend themselves well to CoppaFeel’s primary target audience and we wish the initiative every success.’

Friday, April 25, 2014

Bridal lingerie – look your best on your wedding day

It’s finally spring, which means it’s the start of the wedding season, and if you’re planning a wedding this summer, chances are you still need to buy your lingerie.

There’s no great secret to finding the sexy lingerie to go with your gorgeous gown, but it is something you should spend a bit of time on. In fact, it’s best to start thinking about your lingerie when you’re choosing your wedding dress – and certainly before you make the purchase. You don’t want to end up with a beautiful dress but you can’t find a bra to wear with it. Or that the bra you want to wear doesn’t work.

If your dress is strapless, has a low back or has any other feature that requires specialist lingerie, give yourself time to find a bra that will give you the support you need without being visible. And while it’s usually not practical to take your wedding dress with you to bra fittings, familiarise yourself with where it sits or wear a top with a similar fit to ensure you choose a style that will work.

Remember, the most important thing about the lingerie you wear for your wedding is that it does the job discreetly and comfortably. That doesn’t mean it can’t also be beautiful, but you don’t want to be distracted on your big day by a bra that’s digging in or knickers that won’t stay in place. If your dress demands smooth, invisible underwear for the ceremony, you can always treat yourself to something a little more fancy and romantic for the wedding night.

So, with that in mind, and to help you with your search for the perfect wedding lingerie, here are some of the latest bridal collections. We’ve provided links to buy online but all these collections will also be available via independent retailers. Visit the brands’ websites for stockist details.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Lace and feathers to create lingerie

The combined triumph of funk and flare – photographer, James Pipino, manifests a sexually charged photoshoot fuelled by the stimulating and provocative punk-like appearance of model Analese. Adorned with the heavy accessories reminiscent of the rebellious hoodlum existence of the 1980’s this fashion shoot appeals to the vixen of today.

Vass Arvanitis, stylist, uses lace and feathers to create lingerie that allows any woman to unleash that sexual darkness that resides inside. This unencumbered photography shoot takes place in the freedom of space, with the essence of expanse it gives life to the uninhibited temptress. A modernised version on what was the spikey haired rebel, Analese is now the renovated punk: pastel strands bedecking her hair and luscious cats-eyes decorating her face (done by Julie Provis).

Accessories are chunky and bold, creating the perfect contrast with the delicate form they cover. Arvanitis uses studs and lace trimming to give the look that pivotal edge, taking it from the simple covering of sexy lingerie to the stimulating proposal of a hidden seductress.


Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Barbara Palvin Is Sexy Glam in the Victoria’s Secret “Designer Collection”

Designer Intimates – Barbara Palvin strips down to sexy lingerie in these images shot for Victoria’s Secret’s summer “Designer Collection”. VS Chief Creative Officer Janie Schaffer strove to create ultra-feminine looks for the high-end lingerie pieces. Photographed by Greg Kadel, Barbara wows in a mix of delicate lace, airy chiffon and rich satin.



Monday, April 21, 2014

Tallulah Love Darkside Collection AW13

What better way to take refuge from the cold blistery nights of next winter than to ignite your senses by indulging in utter decadence? Explore your dark side with Tallulah Love’s new collection.

The Darkside Collection strikes a beautiful balance between being the company’s most provocative collection to date yet still provides women full empowerment. Luxurious fabrics found in rich hues and seductive tones and the styles of sexy lingerie allude to the sensuality of the Belle Époque to encourage the wearer to explore her hidden fantasies.

In order to create a current yet timeless appeal the collection strays away from bright colors and patterns, ultimately showcasing the pieces’ darker glamour. Details make these pieces come alive with the use of the finest silks, delicate trims, and European lace. Tallulah Love is also thrilled to introduce their first ever +DD sized range within the Darkside Collection, named Creme De Menthe. This stunning set, created especially for the full busted woman, combines silk trims with cute pink bows and delicate lace.

CEO Michelle Taylor said: “We have listened to customer and buyer feedback to create a contrast to the romantic and pretty with a stronger, sexier directional styling. My personal favourite is La Belle Verte which is a truly stunning scooped balconette bra in a golden olive silk teamed with a very striking suspender.

The range has been very much inspired by the Belle Epoque era and artists such as Alphonse Mucha, the film Black Swan has had a huge influence too as I loved the contrast of the two characters. I believe each woman has a number of sides to her, a cute and flirty side and a darker, more mysterious side. This collection embraces both.”

Saturday, April 19, 2014

Natalia Vodianova Models Etam’s Spring 2014 Lingerie Line

Natalia in Lingerie–Following up her campaign for the brand’s swimwear line, Natalia Vodianova returns as the face of Etam’s spring-summer 2014 lingerie collection. These new style book images show the Russian model in a range of looks including lacy underwear sets, peekaboo stockings and one-piece sexy lingerie styles. See below for more photographs from Natalia’s Etam shoot.



Friday, April 18, 2014

American Apparel Ad Starring 62-Year-Old Lingerie Model Proves 'Sexy Has No Expiration Date'

Friday morning American Apparel posted a photo of their new lingerie ad starring 62-year-old actress, Jacky O'Shaughnessy. The caption read: "Sexy has no expiration date."

This is not the first time O'Shaughnessy has been featured in an ad for the provocative retailer. She began modeling for them back in 2012 after she was scouted in a New York City restaurant. At the time, Vogue reported it was her natural elegance that made her a perfect fit for the brand.

The surge of mature models has not been limited to risk takers like American Apparel. The Row's 2014 campaign features 65-year-old skincare guru and former model Linda Rodin, while Daphne Selfe, who was named the "World's Oldest Supermodel" by the Daily News in 2012, recently starred in her own ad campaign for TK Maxx (the UK's answer to TJ Maxx).

However, not everyone is prepared to see an older model representing a brand. Comments on the photo ranged from extreme discomfort to extreme support of the revealing new photo. Of course, the company doesn't seem to mind shaking things up a bit, so we have a feeling (and we hope!) this is not the last we'll see of Jacky.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Bella Petite Lingerie Sheer Collection

Last month, we interviewed designer Stephanie Ballard to learn more about her brand Bella Petite Lingerie and how she started and launched her business. This month, we wanted to share with our readers more images and insights from the brand’s new line.

Specifically designed with the petite busted woman in mind, Bella Petite’s Sheer Collection offers two styles — a babydoll and chemise in white, pink and lavender in the following sizes: XXS, XS, S, and M.

“We used a plunging sweetheart neckline on our sexy babydoll and deep neckline on the chemise which is very flattering to the petite bust. Both pieces have elastic underneath the bust which hugs the woman’s natural curves and helps to highlight them,” noted Stephanie. “We also chose sheer material as it draws attention to a women’s smaller bust in a very feminine flattering way. I understand what types of designs look best on a small bust and I incorporate those into my pieces.”

Lingerie Blogger Amanda Sage Barnum recently reviewed the brand’s sheer nylon chemise in lavender and said, “By far, the best thing about this chemise is the fit. I’ve never had a slinky little nightwear piece that fit me this well in the cups.” “Clearly, Stephanie understands the needs of petite women like us. Being small-busted herself, she has come up with a rather brilliant and unique design for this garment. It’s got sliding triangle cups in soft lace, with an elastic underbust so you can adjust it to get just the look and feel you want,” added Barnum.

Fellow blogger, Kaitlyn of Wifessionals.com added, “I was really happy that it is complimentary to my shape and size and that it accentuated me, instead of making me feel like a little girl playing dress up.” All of Bella Petite’s garments are manufactured in the United States and even the brand’s choice of suppliers for materials, trims, sewers are all based state-side and are small to mid-sized businesses.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Curvy Kate SS13 Swimwear

The new 2013 Curvy Kate Swimwear collection offers an extended range moving on from last year’s launch collection, with a diverse range of products, prints, colors and styles.  The brand has added several bikini shapes including a halter neck, a moulded cup based on the highly popular Smoothie bra and a three-part cup in balconette style. To accompany the versatile, fun collection is a range of mix and match briefs, available in a high-rise fold down brief, flattering side ruche briefs, smoothing short and cute tie side.

“Incorporating Spring’s hottest holiday shades of scarlet and vibrant lagoon blue, the collection promises to turn heads on the beach, with a key ditsy poppy print, a nautical red and white stripe and a pin-up vintage polka dot,” said the company. “With patterned pieces and block color items specifically designed to mix and match seamlessly, this collection allows you to create your own perfect look.”

The brand has filtered their ‘feel good’ philosophies into their sexy swimwear range and looks to support the fuller bust with pieces they’ll love to wear all day. The brand has listened to customer feedback and wants to supply swimwear for all curvy shapes and a multiple of tastes. They also cater for the growing demand for small back sizes, with styles available from 28 – 44 backs. Curvy Kate moved into the swimwear market in 2012 to offer well fitted, fashionable swimwear pieces in D to K cups. “The range is fun, flirty and most importantly delivers an unbeatable fit and beach confidence, previously hard to find in the fuller cup swim market,” added the company.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Paint a Picture with Sexy Lingerie

How many men can resist a woman in any type of sexy lingerie? There is something about lace, ribbons, feathers, leather, or not-so-subtle sheer material that drives a man wild. And honestly, who can blame him? Who doesn’t look fabulous is oh-so-sexy lingerie? The answer is no one. Regardless how you feel about your body, sexy lingerie is the best way to begin loving yourself again (and maybe even get some loving in the process). After all, if women do not feel feminine in sexy lingerie, why do we purchase these fantastic frocks instead of the ubiquitous underwear? The truth very well may be that women love sexy lingerie just as much as men.

Outside factors can play a huge part in your sex life, including your job and responsibilities. Just because the spark may be hidden beneath a bundle of problems, stresses, and worries does not mean that it has gone out! People are too easy consumed with their problems to take the hints dropped by another individual about meeting their needs. Instead of dropping hints or becoming aggravated when your partner seems to blatantly ignore your specific needs, send him a visual message. Dress up in a drop dead gorgeous baby doll and meet him at the door. It’s guaranteed to send him over the edge.

If you are surprising your man with a stunningly sexy lingerie spread, be sure to have all your elements into play. No one wants to enjoy the benefits of wearing provocative lingerie and then have to finish the dishes. Create and entire evening, day, or weekend where you can spend together without having to worry about the outside world. Throw in some jaw-dropping lingerie and seal the deal. Who could possibly complain?

Remember, there is nothing in the world so important that it hides your spark, after all, that spark is one of the reasons that brought the two of you together in the first place.So, what have we learned today? First, men are visual creatures and need to see in order to believe. Second, sexy lingerie is hands down the best way to convey to your man exactly what you want and need. After that, what more could you ask for?

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Gilda & Pearl AW13

Gilda & Pearl’s AW13 takes a darker, more sensuous turn compared to their recent SS13 collection. Designer Diane Houston offers four ranges: Spellbound, Lila, Lipstick and How to Marry a Millionaire in a color palette dominated by deep, rich pinks and plums along with amethyst and black.

Houston explained that the “…Lipstick collection was inspired by a scene in How to Marry a Millionaire — specifically, Marilyn Monroe being fabulous and signing ‘Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend’ to all those helplessly captivated gents, how smart they looked.”

The collection offers sexy babydolls, slips, bralettes, bras, panties, and kimonos made from silk, satin, stretch spot tulle and a Nottingham eyelash lace and French Lever’s lace.“This season for us is all about indulgence and opulence in contrast to the airy SS13 collection,” said Houston. “It is sensuous, opulent and flirtatious. We loved the contrast of the amethyst silk in the ‘Spellbound’ collection contrasted with the delicate rose French lace — the perfect mix of seductive and romantic.”

As with all of Gilda & Pearl’s garments, the new AW13 collection is made and hand finished in the UK. The name ‘Gilda & Pearl’ represents the designer’s truest inspirations: the bold femme fetale film character played by Rita Hayworth in the 1946 film Gilda and Pearl, an encapsulation of the meaning of unique luxury.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Darkest Star SS14

The pillow looks innocent at first glance. But then you notice a bit of metal peaking from behind the large silk bow and your mind starts to wander — then your hands. At last month’s sexy lingerie Collective (TLC), we saw buyers instantly drawn into the world of Darkest Star by a strategically placed “Pleasure Pillow” at the show’s entrance.

As buyers toyed with the pillows TLC’s show organizer, Kelly Isaac, let them in on a secret: “…you know, the bow doubles as a blindfold.” Eyes — and imaginations — lit up and Kelly ushered awe-struck retailers towards Darkest Star’s rack showcasing the brand’s full collection of bondage inspired intimate apparel.Darkest Star’s designer Sam D’Cruze describes her brand as “an unintimidating, chic alternative to light bondage.” We described her debut collection as “enticingly provocative“.

No matter how you phrase it, Darkest Star is impressive. And if you missed seeing the brand in person, don’t worry, Sam sent us images from the SS14 collection.This season, Darkest Star offers up a softer palette of gray, nude and pink tones for their existing ranges: Back 2 Basics, Love Bomb, Most Excellent, Cuffed Kimono and Renaissance Sleeves. Many of the styles feature silver trims and embellishments of metal, pearl and crystal.

Darkest Star is run by the quirky design duo Sam and Andy D’Cruze. The two met while Sam was studying womenswear design at London’s Central St. Martins. After spending quite a bit time working in the fashion and photography industry, the two decided to combine their skills, passion for design, and eye for detail. The brand specializes in erotic accessories with a unique twist, aimed at the luxury end of the market. What we love about Darkest Star is the brand’s ability to inspire curiosity and a bit of lustfulness for their products — many of the garments begged to be touched. You don’t see, or feel, that very often so we hope more retailers and consumers are ushered into the world of Darkest Star.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Gorgeous New Designer Luxury Lingerie from Lily Blossom

Since we last spoke about Lily Blossom here on TLA, they’ve gotten a ton of new pieces in. True to form, they represent some of the cream of the crop of the designer lingerie world.

The very best lingerie boutiques are carefully curated. You know, almost instantly, if they’re the right fit for you or not. This is sexy lingerie for people who not only crave luxury (silk, swarovski crystals, and embroidery abound), but also want a bit of drama with their undergarments.

Very few of these items could be categorized as “basic”; full of directional details like hand-knotted shoelaces, ruffled flounces, and crocheted fringe, none of these pieces are meant to double as t-shirt brsa or slip. Instead of remaining hidden underneath, this is lingerie that’s truly intended to be seen. To be appreciated. And, most of all, to be adored.Below are a handful of my favorite new lingerie looks from Lily Blossom.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Affinitas and Parfait AW14 Preview

The creative team at Affinitas and Parfait sent us preview images of their upcoming AW 2014 collections that we wanted to share with our readers. Affinitas Lingerie’s AW14 collection introduces five brand new collections in rich, jewel-toned hues from Deep Violet to Fuchsia/Rose to Tango Red. Geometric motifs, scalloped edges and colorblocking provide a fresh, modern update for Fall, while polka dots with delicate lace trim add a hint of retro glam.

Leading the new collections is Coco, offering five Holiday-ready silhouettes in Black/Pink with sheer overlay, oversized center bows and delicate embroidery. For your inner mathematician Erin offers a fun Blue Geo print, featuring a hexagonal motif on micro with white lace trim and bow details.For the company’s full bust range, Parfait releases a collection for AW14 straight from a modern romance. Allure and sophistication run throughout three brand new collections, in addition to new colorways from cult favorites Charlotte, Danielle, Jeanie and more. Marked by deep shades of purple, red and blue seen in satin, lace and mesh fabrications, AW14 also sees everyday basics get an upgrade with prints ranging from feminine winter florals to a berry-hued panther motif.

Leading Parfait’s new collections is elegant Carole, featuring a Padded Bra, Wire Bra, Bikini and Hipster in all-over Black or Imperial Purple with lace paneling. Delphine freshens up the season with feminine winter florals, seen in a light blue and purple Autumn Print with lace overlay in four silhouettes: a Bikini, Hipster, Wire Bra and Half-Padded Bra. Rounding out the new roster is Kitty, featuring a Padded Bra, Wire Bra, Brazilian Thong, Hipster and Underwire Babydoll in a flirty Black or Black/Red oval-shaped polka dot print. Oversized satin bows and ruffled hems make the sexy babydoll a perfect pick for Holiday.

Friday, April 4, 2014

Letter from Paris: Salon International de la Lingerie 2014

Lingerie influences how we feel. More than 500 brands participated last week at the Salon International de la Lingerie in Paris, a source of enchantment and transformation for nearly 17,000 buyers from around the world. Innovative fabrics and exceptional advances in embroidery and lace technology have added new dimensions for designers to explore and expand their creativity. Ranging from bold and dramatic to nuanced and subtle, new forms accentuate the feminine silhouette with an unparalleled fusion of style and comfort for the Fall/Winter 2014 collections.

This upward trend is set to continue with the words CREATIVE, SEXY, FASHION, and QUALITY, cited frequently at this year’s show to describe the collections of leading brands and luxury designers. n a world increasingly on display, a glamorous sexy and styled eroticism is one of the more accomplished trends for Fall/Winter 2014. Styles are daring without the trashy trappings of vulgarity and reflect a self-assured and playful woman at easy with her sexuality and desires.

Paris Capitale de la Creation Designer of the Year! Spanish designer Andres Sarda was honored for the brand’s luxury collections inspired by the vibrant allure of Barcelona.


Thursday, April 3, 2014

Bella Petite Lingerie Holiday Collection

Bella Petite Lingerie designer Stephanie Ballard takes her love of two sultry colors – Ruby and Black – and combines them into her brand’s Holiday collection updating the small bust brand’s Chemise and sexy babydoll styles. The new Chemise is available in two colors – black and ruby — and features thinner adjustable straps which the designer says adds to the sexiness of the garment. Stephanie also noted that soft stretch lace is used on the bust and luxuriously soft sheer lace on the rest of the piece. The bottom of the chemise is adorned with a light floral lace.

Bella Petite’s signature Babydoll — also available in black and ruby — gets an update as well; the new babydoll features a a tiny black bow in the middle of the bust, as well as a soft sexy trim at the bottom of the piece. “The deep plunging necklines on these pieces are extremely flattering on small busts and are sure to make the customer feel sexy and seductive, I know they did for me!” said Stephanie of the new collection.

Catherine from Small Bust Big Heart did a review of Bella Petite Lingerie’s pieces recently and she described the chemise as, “A confidence boosting garment and comfy to wear.” She went on to say: “This makes you feel glamorous, glorious and super sexy”. Fans of the brand understand that Catherine’s response to the Bella Petite is well founded as the designer completely understands her customers: “When I am putting designs together, I keep in mind what I find to fit well and what makes me feel sexy since I am petite busted and have similar challenges as my customers,” says Stephanie of her design process. We recently featured Stephanie’s new styles in our Small Bust Lingerie Market Feature and encourage our readers to read that article. Part 2 debuts later this week.


Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Cancer Survivors Can Now Adorn Their Curves In Lingerie After A Mastectomy

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and according to the American Cancer Society about 234,580 new breast cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2013 in both men and women. The percentage is overwhelming for women at 232,340. Despite the fact that many women consider their breasts as one of the most prominent identifiers of their femininity, fewer than 1 in 4 women opt for reconstruction surgery immediately after having a mastectomy to treat breast cancer despite psychological and cosmetic benefits. Mastectomy survivors who chose this option may often go without a bra but have very limited options when choosing lingerie because of the concerns associated with prosthesis support. Those options are further limited when searching for lingerie that is not only functional but sexy.

Women’s Secret, Spain’s popular lingerie company has teamed up with Barcelona’s based Health Care Clinic Dexeus Women’s Health to create a lingerie line specifically for women who have gone through breast cancer surgery.

The “Special Post-Surgery Bra Collection” features a lining that fits a silicone prosthesis (used before the breast is reconstructed), and wider straps to better support the weight of the breast and the prosthesis. They use soft fabrics and seamless edges that protect the area around the armpit and breast area, which could be tender following surgery or radiotherapy. Women’s Secret is not available yet in the US but you can shop for alternative options at online stores like Royce Lingerie and The Pink Bra.

It is important to remember that a cancer diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence. The National Cancer Institute estimates that approximately 13.7 million Americans with a history of cancer were alive on January 1, 2012. Some of these individuals were cancer free, while others still had evidence of cancer and may have been undergoing treatment.

Although you may feel that sexy lingerie is such a unimportant thing to consider after diagnosis, mastectomy survivors often seek the feeling of normalcy after going through such a horrific ordeal. Shopping for and wearing sexy lingerie to adorn new curves can be a step toward reclaiming and embracing the new life that lies ahead.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Buy Lingerie Guide

Now that you have decided which brands to carry, you need to assess which size runs are best for each brand and style ordered. Sarah Platt of the SF Showroom, who represents lines such as Fleur’t and Montelle, says that the largest mistake that new buyers make is that they buy too many sizes—oftentimes buying a full size run in every style bra, when they should really only buy certain sizes in a certain style.

For instance, if a particular style bra is a better cut for small busted women, the assortment purchased should reflect those smaller sizes. During merchandise selection, it helps to look for what I call the three Fs: fit, function and fashion.

Fit – Does the merchandise have a fantastic fit? A bra or chemise can be beautiful on the hanger, but a nightmare to fit on the body. We have all had the experience of trying on a beautiful dress or top that is cut all wrong, it never makes it out of the fitting room. If it doesn't fit, don’t buy it.

Function – What is the function of the item, and will it do its job? For example, will the push-up bra give cleavage; will the panty function under clothing? Will the shapewear piece work under a dress (i.e. be invisible)? If the function of the lingerie is strictly bedroom or seduction, that is its function, and that is okay, too. The item must perform its function, and do it well.

Fashion – Is the merchandise in vogue? Even basic bras should reflect the trends. Look for fashionable touches that show the item is updated and fashion forward. For example, t-shirt bras in updated colors; camisoles with in-style prints or modern lace and sleepwear with the latest RTW trends incorporated.