How to Look Your Best Under Your Best Dress: Shapewear for Special Occasions

Some say it started with the flappers. Others blame James Dean’s Rebel Without a Cause. Whatever the cause, dresses are continuing to get tighter and shorter, making it more challenging than ever to hide all our bumps. The solution? Choosing the right shapewear.

Today’s shapewear comes in just about every variety: high-waisted thongs and briefs, bike short styles, long-legged slimmers that include the bottom of your thigh, and designs that start just above the knee and slip all the way up to the bottom of your bra. We’re just getting started. These days, there’s shapewear for just about every imaginable outfit and occasion!

Here are two important tips to consider when choosing your shapewear:

            •            Avoid body suits that go on top of your bra. These tend to compress your breasts and draw them down. Opt for a new design that sits just underneath the bra, providing better support.

            •            You don’t want to go too tight with your shapewear. Remember – those bumps need to come out somewhere! The fit should be tight enough to smooth out your figure, but still comfortable enough to last through the evening.

For the best fit, bring your outfit to the store for a personal fitting with a lingerie specialist. You’ll feel fabulous in your dress and enjoy the evening more when you’re confident that everything is in the right spot.

Brabary has a full range of shapewear - we look forward to helping you 'shape up'.

What is a Tankini Swimsuit and Who Should Wear One

The tankini is a type of swimwear that is a more modest version of the bikini. It combines a tank top with the more traditional bikini bottoms. Some of them cover the stomach area completely and some leave a gap that reveals the stomach – similar to a traditional bikini but with a much smaller area exposed.

The tankini was created by swimwear designer Anne Cole, based on her philosophy that, “Women know they are sexy. They don't have to wear a bathing suit that says, 'I am sexy.'” (Source: notablebiographies.com.)

For women who feel self-conscious or uncomfortable in a bikini, the increased coverage of a tankini can empower you to strut your stuff at the beach or pool. Another main advantage to the tankini is that you don’t have to remove your entire suit to use the bathroom. This also makes it a convenient choice for children.

A tankini gives you another outfit in your collection, since you can pair the top with a skirt or a pair of shorts. Some tankini designs are so stunning you don’t want to limit them to when you’re swimming.

Tankinis sometimes have a built-in bra or bust support, which is essential if you’re going to be active while wearing your bathing suit.

If you’re larger busted, stay away from a halter strap (one continuous piece of fabric that goes around the neck), because it will create more strain on our neck. A design with two shoulder straps will work better for you. Sunbathers can easily convert a shoulder strap tankini top into a strapless bandeau that will still keep you covered.

If you’ve shied away from bathing suits because you felt self-conscious about your body, try a tankini top and see just how beautiful you can feel in a swimsuit!