About Erica

Erica is a 27-year old writer and entrepreneur who jointly owns A Sophisticated Pair with her aunt.

Product Review: Tutti Rouge Liliana

Posted on May 22, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

When I first saw the promotional shots for Tutti Rouge, I was smitten with their use of fun, flirty, and feminine lingerie, and I have been anxiously awaiting the debut of this new DD-HH line since then. Fresh, youthful designs under $60 feel like a good fit for our shop, and I contacted them to learn more about importing the brand. They offered to send me a free sample in my size to review, and I could not pass up the opportunity! When I received the Liliana bra, I squealed with delight as the bra was packaged perfectly inside a black box with a peppermint stick and lip gloss. My pictures were accidentally erased, so I’m stealing this shot from Sweet Nothings to show the lovely packaging:

A perfect pic from Sweet Nothings!

Sizing: Since Tutti Rouge is a new brand, I was not sure which size would work for me. In Cleo/Freya, I need a 30H, but in Curvy Kate or Panache’s Superbra line, I typically take a 30HH/J. Consequently, the lovely people at Tutti Rouge sent the Liliana in size 30HH. Fuller-bust companies often utilize stretchy bands, but Tutti Rouge breaks the mold. The 30 band in the Liliana feels closer to the 30 band in the Masquerade Rhea if not a little tighter. Women needing firm 28s or even 26s will appreciate the smaller band, but women wearing true 38 bands may find they are sized out of the line. Furthermore, the HH cup size is small on me. For all the pictures I have only partially scooped the tissue from the side, which is how I will wear the bra. Ideally, I would need a J or JJ, so the cups do run small.

Fit: Despite the sizing issues with the bra, I have to admit the fit is still quite good. The angled cups and somewhat flexible fabric on the top camouflages the need for a larger size, and the low center gore feels fantastic. On the day I first received the Liliana, I wore the Panache Loretta all day, and my skin still had the indentations from the underwires. The Liliana easily sits 1.5″ to 2″ lower—a refreshing change of pace for a girl accustomed to higher center gores! Because the neckline is lower and wider across, the designs works perfectly with deeper v-necks, especially because the cleavage is mild and less “in your face” than something like the Freya Deco.

Returning to the issue of the cup size, part of the problem originates from the shallower design, especially toward the center. Because my breasts are close set, I have a lot of tissue near the front of my chest, and shallow cups often require me to size up to ensure a proper fit. However, the flip side of this issue is I end up with cups and underwires which extend too far on the side of my body and chafe my arms. With the Tutti Rouge Liliana, I never feel uncomfortable, and the cups and wings are low enough on the sides to never cause rubbing or pain. In fact, I can not complain about the comfort whatsoever, and I think it would make a nice option for an everyday bra. The fit seems a little reminiscent of Curvy Kate, and fans of that brand will find something to like here. Nevertheless, Tutti Rouge has balanced the wider design and shallower cups to work for other body shapes as well—a smart design decision on their part.

The side profile on this one is more minimized than some of my other bras, like the Cleo Zia or Lucy, but it’s still rounded and lifted. Wonderful as they are, some of my Cleo bras create issues with my tops because of how forward my breast tissue is, making the Liliana a great alternative.

Materials & Design: Finding a bra with a padded cup in anything over a G cup can be a tall order, and I am happy to see Tutti Rouge added one more option to the market. The padding used in the Liliana feels lightweight and does not add any bulk. With temperatures already approaching 90F here, breathable bras are a must! Not to mention, the interior of the cup has a cotton-like quality to the fabric which caresses the skin and does not rub. Moreover, I love the choice of using a padded lower cup and paring it with an embroidered mesh top cup. The hybrid design means the cups contour better to different breast shapes while still giving women nipple protection. As I mentioned, the plunging neckline and center gore are fabulous, and the almost-cleavage look in the center bridges the gap between an open chest and the over-the-top decolletage of something like the Deco.

Firm wings and a side stay anchor to the body for excellent side support and hold, but for me, the standout feature of the Liliana is the attention to details. The bubblegum pink color complements the lace and ribbon details while the polka dot bows at the center and cream bows near the straps add flare. Heart-shaped strap adjustments replace the standard rectangle, and the brand’s moniker adorns the border on the hook-and-eye closures. Thoughtful touches like these elevate the design above the brand’s competitors.

Finally, I love how Tutti Rouge transcends age with designs that work equally well for the fuller-busted teen as they do for the woman who loves a little fun with her lingerie. I know I’ll be getting a lot of wear out of mine! For more information, check out the video below!

The Shorts: As part of my complementary package, I received a pair of the matching shorts in size UK 14 (Large). Before my days of owning a lingerie store, I was a huge fan of shorts like these and would grab packs of them on sale, but the lace always felt a bit cheap and scratchy. The Liliana shorts, however, are wonderful! With soft lace that does not irritate the skin and a flattering cut on the rear, the shorts carry forward the lovely details from the bra for a polished set. The shorts were stretchy enough that I could have sized down, but given that I absolutely hate when an elastic band digs into my hips, I’m happy with these.

Overall Grade A

For a second take on the bra, check out these reviews: Fuller Figure Fuller Bust, Sweet Nothings NYC, Busts 4 Justice, and the Lingerie Addict!

The Modesty Panel: Modesty and the Bra Shopping Experience

Posted on May 16, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

Recently, several women who write about breasts and proper bra fit came together to create the Bosom Bloggers group with the goal of helping each other and our readers. Naturally, the topic of modesty arose during our interactions with each other, usually accompanied by “I should blog about that someday!” Well, someday has come! This week, each of the following bloggers has committed to sharing a perspective on the subject of modesty.

Boosaurus: Growing up in the Christian Homeschooling Subculture
Braless in Brasil: What if you want more coverage?
Bras and Body Image: What I wear is none of your damn business!
By Babys Rule: Modesty and Breast Implants
Contrary Kiwi: More clothes = more holiness?
Fussy Busty: Why I choose not to cover up
Fussy Busty Pt 2: I’m fat and ain’t no one telling me what to do!
Hourglassy: Stares Bad, Breast Private
Hourglassy Pt 2: Feminism isn’t a four letter word but modesty should be!
Miss Underpinning: Why I like taking my clothes off for the Internet, or on modesty
Nothing Ever Fits: What Modesty means for us
Obsessed with Breasts: A Word Vomit of Thoughts
Red Hair and Girly Flair: It’s not your body
Sophia Jenner: Where do you stand?
That Bra Does Not Fit Her: We have a great selection of minimizers!
The Tit Rambler: Modest Panel Crashing
Thin and Curvy: Dressing Modestly
Two Cakes on a Plate: Respecting One Another Not the Rules of Society
Weirdly Shaped and Well Photographed: On Looking Away
Wide Curves: I Want to be Big and Immodest
Windie Gardie: Modesty

You will find the viewpoints of a mother, a feminist, an overweight woman, a corporate climber, and so many more. Modesty plays a vital role in our everyday lives, whether it’s adding a camisole under a low cut top to avoid cleavage, abiding by corporate or school dress codes, observing religious requirements, or determining which bras to buy. Every day, we actively engage in some degree of modest dressing whether for personal, professional, or religious reasons, and as part of the modesty panel, I want to discuss how the emphasis on modesty translates to the bra shopping experience.

Before ever entering the fitting room, a woman’s modesty impacts how comfortable she will feel with a stranger seeing her in a bra. We visit beaches and pools, where swimsuits cover as much if not less than our undergarments, but then swimsuits are not referred to as “intimates.” Bras and underwear are often viewed within a sexualized context, and thus, the idea of showing those garments to another person, especially a stranger, is also viewed as potentially shameful.

Image courtesy of Victoria’s Secret

Couple those feelings of awkwardness with the slew of body image demons rearing their heads at the first sight of a mirror, and you have a recipe for women feeling uncomfortable with a process that can be fun and positive. My goal as a fitter is never to judge you. I am not there to critique your body, the bra you came into the store wearing, your personal preferences for bras and underwear, or even your religious observances. The latter sometimes creates problems for fitters unaccustomed to working with women who cannot allow a person to see them undressed.

For all the women who feel more conservative about modesty, there are also women on the opposite side of the spectrum. These women announce that they have no modesty, and they are not shy about taking off their bra or allowing the fitter to touch them. Interestingly, just as some women feel apologetic about their desire for more privacy, others feel the need to apologize for their lack of it.

Regardless of your personal preferences, bra fitters should be respectful of your decisions and never make you feel strange or guilty for them. If you do not want a fitter to see you in your bra, then she should instruct you how to measure yourself and talk to you about the way a bra should fit. She should be open to guiding you through the process with explanations and pictures instead of through a hands-on approach. If you do not have issues undressing, that’s okay too. There’s no shame in doing what will help you to maximize your appointment and your comfort level.

Having said this, it is easier for fitters if we can evaluate the fit of the bra in person, but it is not essential. Never allow someone to make you feel uncomfortable in the fitting room. Ever. Whether the issue is modesty, comfort, or something else entirely, you should always be respected and treated warmly.

Once in the fitting room, the next step is deciding what style of bra suits your needs. The most-desired characteristics by my customers are a smooth cup with some foam padding. A good bra should lift, shape, and support but do so quietly and discreetly without revealing itself to anyone. Even more the bra should conceal the nipples entirely because the visible outline of this body part often interplays immodesty and sexuality. However, the connotation typically revolves around women as men with erect nipples do not face the same level of criticism. In fact, women’s breasts and modesty are so intertwined that there are even instances when using them the way they were intended (breastfeeding an infant) provokes rebuke. By extension, it’s no wonder that the nipples natural response to cold temperatures must also be concealed and hidden away.

Visible nipples underneath a top invites embarrassment. Our breasts and nipples are body parts meant to be kept under wraps, and once exposed, it’s something that generates mocking, stares, or snide comments. For example, Ann Hathaway’s Oscar win was almost completely eclipsed by what seems more like poor dart placement than visible nipples. I completely understand why women will seek out the thickest foam cup in an attempt to never fall prey to that kind of harassment.

When I was 13, I went shopping with my mom and brother for a homecoming dress. The temperature in the store was rather brisk, and the dress I tried on did not allow for a regular bra (this was my pre-boobs period.) My mom mentioned I may need to add something to the dress because my nipples were visible. Leave it to my nine year old brother to bellow out: ”You’ve got poppers! Look poppers!” Our fellow customers were rather amused, but I was completely mortified. It’s the first instance where I can actively recall feeling shameful and embarrassed about my breasts.

As a result, I understand and empathize with women hoping to avoid the social stigma of showing nipples, and I also understand women wanting their bras to disappear under shirts. What I find interesting is that modesty can be defined as “the state of being unassuming.” Unassuming—the word cuts to the core of the issue, does it not? Modesty and bras have become so thoroughly intertwined in part because we have been indoctrinated into thinking undergarments should be unassuming. In essence, they should do their job without advertising they are doing it.

In 1959, Helen Nielsen wrote in Reader’s Digest that “Humility is like underwear, essential but indecent if it shows.” We are trained to buy bras which are modest—no, unassuming—because if they reveal themselves, the result is indecent, trashy, tacky, unstylish, or whatever other negative adjective you prefer. Yet, I find the entire concept rather paradoxical. We are instructed to buy something which is unassuming under our clothes, but at the same time, everyone is assuming we are wearing one. If they did not believe we were wearing bras, then the insults shift. How often have we seen celebrities skewered on the front page of the tabloid trash for not wearing a bra and for their lack of support, nipple coverage, or modesty associated with the decision?

We train women to wear a bra. Literally starting with the aptly named “training bras,” we teach little girls that bras are something they need to wear. Every person you meet most likely assumes you are wearing a bra, but if they can prove that assumption, then you have transgressed. You are guilty of violating a subtle social taboo because you turned your undergarments into outergarments, and that is not appropriate.

When women visit the shop, they love the pretty bras. The eye-catching prints, the ornate embroidery, the stunning colors, and the decorative lace draw the eye, but the practical “must-have” t-shirt bra is what they buy regardless of whether a molded foam cup maximizes their shape. In some cases, it’s a budgetary issue, but more often than not, they buy the bra that is more socially acceptable to wear under their clothes.

If buying t-shirt bras is truly your choice and is the style that makes you happiest to wear, then buy it, wear it, and love it! However, if you are only settling on this style because it is expected of you, then maybe you should branch out to something new. No one should be made to feel bad because of the bras she chooses for herself whether they are minimalistic, over the top, or somewhere between. They are hers and hers alone, and she does not need nor deserve reproach for buying the things that make her happy. You should not be made to feel immodest for wearing a bra with a seam or be criticized because the bra that makes you happiest isn’t completely invisible under clothes. If your nipples show, you shouldn’t be penalized for your body’s natural response.

I consider myself to be a feminist, and in my opinion, I believe the core principle of feminism should be allowing women the freedom to make the choices which suit their personalities, their goals, and their lives. Life is so abruptly, tragically short after all, so why would you waste the energy and time wearing bras that do not make you happy?

Erica

P.S. Feel free to weigh-in in the comments section. Modesty is such a controversial topic, and I look forward to hearing everyone’s thoughts here!

Product Review: Lucy Update

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

Last January, I tested the Cleo by Panache Lucy in black, and while the bra fit better than the previous Panache styles I tried (remember this was before Andorra and Jasmine came into my life), I was not overwhelmed with love. Thinking the style would never work for me, I pursued other options and abandoned the Lucy for greener pastures. Recently, however, I’ve discovered the majority of my issues with the Cleo line derive from poor sizing choices. Certain bras require you try the perfect size in order to determine if the style will work for you while others, such as the Panache Andorra, can still indicate whether the bra is worth continued consideration even if the size is not right. Cleo is definitely in the former category!

The Lucy in 32H in early January 2012.

For my new dalliance with the Lucy, I chose the 30H (my usual Freya and now Cleo size), and let’s just say I did not suffer from a lack of love this time around! My heavier breast tissue feels lifted and secured in the bra without the design covering too much chest. Even though the band on the Lucy stretches easily, I did not want to size down to the 28; however, women who are between band sizes should consider this. The embroidered top cup also sits perfectly flush against the skin without any overflow or puckering. Because the fabric is less flexible, women who need contouring fabrics should probably skip this design. In fact, like many of the Cleo bras I have tried, Lucy better suits women with equal fullness or fullness on the top of the breasts. Bottom-heavy breasts may encounter problems with cup wrinkling at the top.

The center gore on the Lucy is wider than the Zia or Marcie but still narrow enough to work for my close set breasts. The gore itself is actually splayed so that it narrows at the top but swoops outward at the bottom. This design feature may account for why both Dezi and I like the bra despite having different breast shapes. Furthermore, the underwire on the side extends just far enough back to encompass my breast tissue but not so far as to pull the cup uncomfortably into the side of my arm or to press into my ribs. On the side, both the wings and the underwire do not sit too high on the torso which feels refreshing.

Great fit aside, my favorite feature of the Lucy is the wonderful shape. Providing the forward projection many fuller-busted women crave, the Lucy creates a high, rounded profile which looks naturally lifted and supported. There isn’t even the hint of a point, so women with madonnaboobsphobia will not be intimidated by a conical shape. In fact, I find this bra works well under body-conscious tops because the profile and silhouette are so flattering, and the cute embroidery on the upper cup as well as the sporadic flowers on the bottom are rather discreet.

Despite an unseasonably cool winter and spring, temperatures will eventually rise here, and when they do, the lightweight quality of the mesh cup and powernet wings will ensure I stay cool in on hotter days. My only caveat is the two hook-and-eye closures in the back, but I’m starting to get used to the sensation. If you want to hear more about my thoughts on the Lucy, check out the video below:

For another opinion, check out the reviews from these fab bloggers: Fuller Figure Fuller Bust, Bras I Hate & Love, Voluptuously Thin, Lingerie Abstracts, Bras & Body Image, Quest for the Perfect Bra, Sophia Jenner, and Undercover Lingerista!

Token Diversity: A Step Forward or a Way to March in Place?

Posted on May 7, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies and Gents:

Fashion is a pleasurable excursion for me, a way to temporarily escape the responsibilities of running a business and to indulge in all of the beautiful colors, textures, and designs. Over the years, I developed a personal style reflective of my personality—start with Joan from Mad Men, add a generous dash of Kate Moss and sprinkle with Banana Republic. Admiring the latest collections and trends debuting for the season became a fun, creative, and somewhat mindless outlet for me, and to this end, I subscribe to both Lucky and InStyle. Despite the enjoyment I receive from scanning the glossy pages, I can easily, and at length, communicate the many problems I have with the fashion world: a strong emphasis on hyper-analyzing and then fearing the signs of age, a never-ending list of beauty products you simply must-have, often contradictory instructions to follow the crowd but stand out as an individual, and the downright awful lingerie advice, to name a few. However, today I want to focus on an issue not limited to the world of general fashion but one that applies to media as a whole: Token Diversity.

Lucy Magazine had a feature (I say “had” because in their latest edition, it is nowhere to be seen) where they makeover average size 10/12/14 women, encouraging them to explore new silhouettes and adopting trends to fit curvy figures. Overall, the stylists’ choices were not only body appropriate but downright cute, and for a brief four pages, average and plus-sized women everywhere had models who could represent them. Flip to the pages before or after the article, however, and you were assaulted with a barrage of tall, size 0/2, white models.

To illustrate, I counted the model distribution in the February edition of Lucky and found the following:

Of the 25 models I counted, 21 were white.
Of the white models, 11 were a variation of blond, 9 were brunettes, and one had red hair.
Twenty of the models fell between the industry standard 0 to 4 size range, four were between sizes 6 and 12, and one was a 14+. In my opinion, the size 14 model could technically be classified in the 6 to 12 range because she seemed quite tall.
In the section dedicated to average women, we find the most diversity with the redhead, one of the darker skinned women, and three of the size 6 to 12 models located here.

During my initial counting, I did not include models in promotions because I was not planning to hold a magazine accountable for the choices made by their advertisers. Submissions by readers, shots of runway models, and photos of celebrities were also not part of my brief survey. Finally, I did not count any model who was showing less than 1/2 her body. After a prolonged internal debate, I redid the count to factor in advertisers as a method for comparing the magazine as a whole. As with before, I did not include reader submissions, runway shots, celebrities, or women (in either an ad or in an article) who did not show more than 1/2 of their body. If I had, the skew toward younger, white models would be even stronger. Below is the revised tally:

Of the 30 models, 26 were white, or roughly 87%.
Of the white models, 13 were blond, 12 were brunette, and one had red hair.
Of all the models, 25 were in the size 0 to 4 range (84%), four were in sizes 6 to 12 (13%), and one was a size 14+ (3%).
As with the previous results, the section containing average women had the most diversity.

As I noted the hash marks on my paper, I could not help but feel this simple survey serves as a staggering indictment of the fashion world’s claims of improved diversity. According to the US Census Bureau, for 2011 the ethnicities of the US breaks down as:

White (Non-Hispanic): 63.4%
Hispanic or Latino: 16.7%
Black: 13.1%
Asian: 5%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.2%
Persons reporting two or more races: 2.3%

The Lingerie Addict wrote a wonderful piece a few months ago discussing how she felt underrepresented in the lingerie world, and it is easy to see why minorities feel forgotten. With over 35% of US citizens identifying themselves as non-white, it’s shocking that nearly 90% of the advertising and models are Caucasian.

One of the few darker skinned models to grace the pages of the magazine.

Beyond race, size is another consideration. While I firmly believe women who fit the figure requirements of a professional model should be included in fashion magazines (after all, diversity is about embracing all types of women), should they account for a jaw-dropping 84% of the models? The average woman in the US wears a size 14. Shouldn’t we see a little more dispersion around that size?

Furthermore, age is conspicuously missing from my tally because none of the models seemed over 35. Most were in their early 20s. With a strong and continued emphasis on retinol, anti-aging creams, and Botox, is it any wonder they do not want to feature faces with laugh and smile lines? There are no models with physical disabilities either—a true shame because articles dealing with fashion and disability are both thought-provoking and informative.

The lack of progress forces me to question whether the tireless efforts of men and women to encourage magazines, the media, and corporations to include models of different shapes, heights, ages, and ethnicities are being taken seriously. Is the media machine placating us with a token diversity rather than embracing real diversity? Is the rationale: Well, now that we have the average model and the black model covered, we can fill the rest of our publication with our standard tall, thin white models and no one can say we aren’t diverse.

What strikes me as an even worse element to the issue is how ambivalent the merits of token diversity are. One could successfully argue that even including a black model or a regular sized model is a step in the right direction, that we should praise the magazine/company/whatever for their attempt, no matter how half-hearted it may be. However, I view these attempts as a way of keeping business as usual instead of embarking on a journey toward greater diversity across media platforms.

In the past, fashion magazines and retailers have trotted out the excuse “fashion is aspirational” to explain why they refuse to change, but recent studies indicate women are more likely to buy an item if it is modeled by someone who is closer to their size and skin color. Women crave more diversity, and they are willing to spend money with companies who listen. Returning to the insulting concept of “aspirational,” why should we suggest all women aspire to be young, thin, white, and tall. Youth, skin color, and height are completely beyond our control, and even thinness can be as well. Why not aspire to be ourselves instead? Self-love and happiness aren’t as popular as self-doubt and longing these days.

Cliché though it may be, variety is the spice of life, and praising token diversity offers companies an excuse to continue with the bare minimum. The process feels hypocritical for companies to showcase women of different body types, skin colors, and ages for one spread when the rest of the magazine is more of the same. It leaves us no closer to reconciling the vast difference between the average American women and the models used to market to us. Shouldn’t diversity extend to more than just one spread or one campaign and become the new normal?

Weigh in: Should we applaud companies for using real women in their magazines even if it is only for a few pages, or do you feel like it’s a cop-out for them?

Erica

Saturday Spotlight: Wide Curves

Posted on May 4, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

Even though I try to provide as much information as possible on the bra reviews, it’s not always easy to decide if something will work for you if you have a different shape than me. It’s with this in mind that I want to shine our spotlight over to Wide Curves: Put an hourglass figure into a penny press and this is what you get. Providing detailed measurements of herself and the bras she reviews, this blogger is on a quest to find styles which fit and flatter her. Her breasts are wider set than mine, so we often cannot wear the same bras which makes her reviews complementary to the ones we write here. Furthermore, she’s in a more mainstream size (UK 36FF/38F), so like our resident blogger Dezi, she can try a heck of a lot more styles than I can.

Her recent reviews of the Panache Sophie (it’s tough to find wireless bra reviews), Fantasie Rebecca, and Claudette En Dentelle have been favorites of mine, and I’m looking forward to reading more. As I mentioned, she always includes a lot of measurements with her reviews which can further help you identify which styles will or won’t be right for you.

Check out her blog and be sure to like her on Facebook!

Erica

Product Review: Cleo Zia

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

As I mentioned in my update of the Marcie review, I struggled to find a good fit with Cleo bras in the past largely due to poor sizing choices. When I first ordered the Marcie and Meg bras, the Zia captured my heart, but my sales rep discouraged me from trying this style. Eventually, however, I rolled the dice, and I cannot emphasize enough how wonderfully the gamble paid off for my lingerie closet.

Sizing: My Freya/Fantasie size is consistently a 28HH or 30H depending on how stretchy the band feels while in Panache/Curvy Kate, I need a 30HH to 30J. Consequently, when I ordered Cleo bras, I opted for the 30HH or even 32H both of which yielded copious fit issues. With the Zia, I snagged a 30H—the perfect size! The band feels firm and comfortable, and I do not have any issues with the cup. Previously, I often had gaping or wrinkling at the top of the cup, but with the Zia, the mesh sits flat and smooth.

Fit: One of my favorite fit elements for the Zia is the narrow underwire both at the center gore and on the side which feels more characteristic of Freya (if not a smidge narrower). Deeper cups and narrow underwires work best for my close-set breasts, and the root boosting seams underneath the apex of the breast provide amazing lift and shaping. The silhouette is less pointy than Freya and instead features a forward, rounded profile. Furthermore, the bottom of the cup has plenty of space for my slightly bottom-heavy tissue so as to avoid any issues with extra space above the underwire. Not to mention, the underwires themselves do not sit as high in the front or side nor do they pull the fabric of the cup uncomfortably into the sensitive tissue underneath the arm. As I mentioned, the band is firm, and even with the two hook-and-eye closures, I feel contained and anchored by the wings.

Materials: The lower cup is made from a soft but sturdy fabric which contributes to the incredible lift while the upper cup is a somewhat stiffer mesh with rose embroidery. Compared to the Marcie, the top of the Zia darts inward which could be problematic for women who skew strongly toward fuller on top breasts. Fully-adjustable straps, as always, are a nice feature, and even though I prefer three hook-and-eye closures, the two on the Zia coupled with the sturdy non-mesh wings provide excellent support and comfort.

Design: We all know I’m a big fan of dark colored bras, and the black, pink, gray, and white palette works perfectly with the bolder print. Expertly modernizing traditionalist prints like polka dots and roses, the Zia conjures a graphic, bold, and quirky vision which resonates with my personality. Furthermore, I love how this balcony bra has more of a sweetheart neckline across the top—a fresh choice among the barrage of v-shaped or straight across necklines.

Other Comments: The Zia will be better for women who have close set, forward facing breasts that are somewhere between top and bottom heavy. Too far to either side of the spectrum will create problems with the inflexible mesh top cup. On a completely unrelated note, the Zia has some serious hold! I have tried sports bras in the past that did not eliminate bounce as much as this style does. Long days in the store are a breeze with the Zia because I always feel confident and secure. For more information, check out the video below:

The Briefs: Given my personal preference is for looser fitting underwear, I thought my 41.5″ hips would do well in the UK 14 (Large). The only other Cleo undies I tried were the Meg (also in 14) and those fit fine albeit bordering on a little loose. Although wearable, the Zia brief is definitely smaller than the Meg brief I tried as well as lower in the rise. In the future, I’d order a 16. Moreover, in the rear, the shorts expose a lot of cheek, but the angled cut works well for most shapes. Overall, the Zia briefs remind me more of a Brazilian short or brief than, say, a Freya, Fantasie, or Panache brief.

Overall Grade: A+++++++++

Other Opinions: Hourglassy, Curvy Wordy

Writing What Wants to be Written

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

What I originally set out to write was a follow-up to an earlier article on preparing for a bra fitting. Instead of general tips, I wanted to offer advice for mothers and daughters shopping together. Mother’s Day is on the horizon, and many of our customers like to use the occasion to spend some quality time with family. I had grand intentions (and still do) of discussing ways to make the experience easy and enjoyable, but as I typed away and watched the black letters materialize into words, I realized I had to—or rather was compelled to—write from the heart and not the mind.

Four years ago today, my mother passed away. The last words I spoke to her that I know for certain she heard were from the night before when I said: “Have a good night’s sleep, mom. I love you.” Without her, there would be no A Sophisticated Pair. Her essence infuses the business as much as if she worked in the shop alongside my aunt and me, and today, I will explain why.

Posing for her senior picture in high school

My mom did not take any backtalk or excuses from us, and she instituted firm but fair rules for my brother and me to follow. When adolescent rebellion threatened my studies, she grounded me and explained that she had no problem with me earning a “C” in a subject provided I truly earned it. “If you worked hard and really tried, and the best you could do was C, then I would be very proud of you.” Failure was not only acceptable but a necessary part of learning and growing up according to my mom, but only if we had given our all in the attempt. She never approved of “coasting” by with the bare minimum, and her encouragement to strive for excellence drives the mission of our store. A Sophisticated Pair does not aim to be an average bra shop. We don’t even aim to be a wildly successful one if it comes at the cost of our core values.

One of my favorite pictures of her because she looks so relaxed and happy.

Despite her encouragement and sometimes prodding, my mom was not afraid to step to the sidelines and let us experience life independent of her protection. In a touching letter I still posses, she told me she would always be there for me, “two steps behind and a little to the left.” She wanted to give us the skills we needed to succeed on our own and the confidence to chase after our dreams. What is the shop if not a dream realized?

Her and my grandma holding yours truly a few weeks after I was born.

Her friendship and loving support was not limited to her family either. My mom never met a stranger. She was warm, kind, and welcoming to everyone, and she would help others in any way she could—a trait she instilled in my brother and me. She allowed us to be selfish in moderation since taking time for yourself is important too, but she wanted us to look beyond ourselves and think of how our decisions, how our actions, and how our words impacted others. We talk about body positivity often in the blogosphere, and even though the lessons were hard to accept and learn, my mom frequently taught me to love myself. Whether I was in prime physical condition or overweight and sick, she always made me feel beautiful, but more than that, she taught me that if people want to criticize you for how you look, it says more about them and their character than about yourself. They weren’t worth the trouble in her eyes.

The two of us at my college graduation

But, her wisdom expanded into the practical realm as well. We watched decorating shows together all the time, and she was a whiz with the sewing machine. Were she still alive, A Sophisticated Pair would offer onsite alterations! She could change the entire look of a room with a $50 budget, so when we began upfitting the store, we searched for bargains, made our own furniture, and opted for a bolder color on the walls to inject some fun into the space.

For such a long post, you would think I would have more of a point, but I suppose all I really want to say on this sad day is “Thank you, Mom.” I certainly didn’t say it enough before she passed away, but I am forever grateful to a woman who loved her children above anyone or anything else in this world. I wish you could be here to see what we’ve built and share in the experience. You are my inspiration, and I will forever look two steps behind and a little to the left hoping you’ll be there.

Erica

Saturday Spotlight: Weirdly Shaped and Well Photographed

Posted on April 20, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

The reason I began the “Saturday Spotlight” series was to expose our readers to some of the other wonderful writers out there in cyberspace, and today, I want to direct you to recently launched Weirdly Shaped and Well Photographed. With gorgeously shot pictures and a cheerful tone, this full-bust blog aims to educate women about finding bras that fit and dressing your curves.

Admittedly, her shape is less common than most which she explains in her post on why she hasn’t added any bra reviews yet, but her insights and descriptions are applicable even to those with a different body type. The discussion of how built-in ruching can improve the look and fit of a garment is especially interesting, and Dezi can attest to how often I use the term “strategic ruching” when talking about clothes and fashion! Not to mention, I dare you ladies to check out her review of the Pin-Up Girl Anna dress (shown above) and not want one for yourself.

Be sure to add her to your list of blogs worth reading, and don’t forget to follow her on Twitter as @WeirdlyShaped!

Erica

Product Review: Daily Boost

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

Curvy Kate and I have engaged in a passionate, sometimes lust-filled love/hate relationship ever since I received the first email announcing they would be attending Curves in the US. I love their designs—the playful use of colors, the co-mingling of traditional lingerie elements with something modern and fun, the thoughtful finishing touches and flourishes. Nevertheless, for all the love I carry in my heart for their designs, they do not love me back. Perhaps I should label our relationship unrequited love instead?

Recently, my Freya Pollyanna bra no longer provides the same support or comfort, and I need another white or beige bra to wear under my lighter color tops. After hearing positive feedback on the Daily Boost, I rekindled the romance as a last ditch “Let’s try to get along” attempt to find a Curvy Kate bra (outside the sadly discontinued Tease Me) which works for my shape.

Sizing & Fit: In Curvy Kate, I typically need a 30HH or J, and for the Daily Boost, I opted to test the HH cup. The 30 band is impressive with how firmly it anchors to the body to provide snug, comfortable support. Women concerned with the stretchiness of Curvy Kate bands have nothing to fear from the Daily Boost! Unfortunately, the fit goes awry when we examine the cups. Toward the center gore, I have some overflow where the cup is too small, and the gore itself does not want to fully tack.

On the sides, the underwires extend further than I prefer but not so much as to be bothersome. In fact, this is the first Curvy Kate bra I have tried in quite some time that did not rub the underside of my arm painfully. Fit problems aside, the bra does feel comfortable and supportive, but in addition to the issue with the overflow and center gore, I have unfilled space at the bottom of the cup. Whenever I pull the top of the cup upward, the material slides down again to create the emptiness. Moreover, the light padding of the cup is buckling under the weight of my breasts since they are not positioned properly.

Why am I experiencing these fit problems? Simply put: My breasts and the design of the bra are incompatible. My breast tissue is set closer together and more toward the front of my torso. While I do have some breast tissue toward the side of the body, the majority is front-facing and fuller. The Daily Boost, in contrast, has wider underwires and shallower cups at the center which do not give my breast tissue adequate space. Since the tissue has to go somewhere, it ends up overflowing the top of the cup and pushing the center gore away from the body. Similarly, the bottom of the cup is also too shallow which is why my fuller breast tissue relocates upward where it has more space. The wider center gore and shallower cups also splay my more naturally close set breasts outward instead of keeping them forward.

Materials & Design: The first time I put on the Daily Boost, I only had a minute or two before needing to change back, and my impressions were rather positive, mostly on account of the materials. The bra just feels good, and as I mentioned, even with the fit problems, I can’t say that this is an uncomfortable bra to wear. The interior of the cup feels incredibly soft against the skin, and even the exterior has a nice texture. Fully-adjustable straps allow for maximum customization to fit your shape, and the powernet wings hold firmly and comfortably to the body. Not to mention, I rather like the aesthetics of the Daily Boost. It emits a fresh, almost sporty vibe and distinguishes itself among the sea of pattern, embroidery, and lace dominating my current lingerie wardrobe (and the lingerie market as a whole). The contrast trim at the top is a thoughtful touch too. Furthermore, the Mocha fashion color debuting later this year is a step in the right direction for offering a better range of flesh-tone alternatives, and I hope more companies follow Curvy Kate’s design team on this.

Final Thoughts: Instead of grading a bra from a line that I can never seem to fit, I would rather offer advice about who should consider trying the Daily Boost. If Curvy Kate works for you, then definitely try this style because I found it fits similarly to the other designs in their arsenal. If you’ve never tried Curvy Kate, the Daily Boost is best for women with average to wider set breasts who benefit from wider underwires on the side. Women with shallower breast tissue will find something to enjoy here as well.

For more information, check out our video below!

And for a second take on the style, check out the reviews done by other bloggers: Fussy Busty, Fuller Figure Fuller Bust, Miss Underpinnings, Busts 4 Justice, Invest in Your Chest, and Bravista!

Product Review: Marcie Update

Posted on April 11, 2013 by Erica

Hello Ladies,

Several months ago, I reviewed the Cleo by Panache Marcie bra in size 30HH, and after obsessing over the beautiful color, I decided to retry the style in size 30H to determine if my fit issues could be corrected with a size change. Since this is more of an “update” than a review, I am going to focus mostly on the change in fit from the 30HH to the 30H.

Currently modelling the 30HH back in October 2012

Band: In my original review, I mentioned the 30 band felt a bit loose, but several blogosphere denizens disagreed and said the band was snug in their size. As a result, I opted to forgo the 28 band and stick with my usual 30. Sure enough, the band on my 30H feels considerably firmer and more secure.

Underwire: Understandably, the underwires on the H cup are lower than the HH, and I love how they press firmly against the ribs without feeling too tight or stiff. In fact, they are wide enough to contain and encapsulate tissue on the side without uncomfortably pulling the bra into the side of my arm. Nothing digs or chafes with this size, and I have to admit it really feels great against the skin.

Cups: The H cup fits significantly better just about everywhere. I’m not sure how a smaller cup size corrected this issue, but I now fill out the bottom of the cup better and do not weigh down the cups so as to create a shadow above the underwire. The shape is rounded, lifted, and forward, and the deeper cups work well with my body. My breasts do not feel splayed to the side because of too shallow a cup near the center, and the gaping at the top has lessened. However, the Marcie still does not quite work for me. While minimized in the H cup, the gaping is still present because the less flexible material stays rounded and my bust . . . does not. I do have quite a bit of tissue at the top of the bust, but it forms a sloping shape. As a result, where the Marcie expects more fullness, I have none. Meanwhile, I’m settling into the horizontal seam section of the cup and creating a curious double bump where the shape of the bra and the shape of my breasts seem at odds.

Revised Thoughts: I like the Marcie a lot more in the 30H, and I feel the style has potential even if it is not perfect for me. At the same time I snagged this one, I also ordered a Zia which I’ll be reviewing later, and I have a Lucy on order. Overall, I’m feeling more excited by Cleo now that I know I should order my Freya size instead of my regular Panache size.

Erica

A Sophisticated Pair

intimate apparel for women with curves

Author Archives: Erica

About Erica

Product Review: Tutti Rouge Liliana

The Modesty Panel: Modesty and the Bra Shopping Experience

Product Review: Lucy Update

Token Diversity: A Step Forward or a Way to March in Place?

Saturday Spotlight: Wide Curves

Product Review: Cleo Zia

Writing What Wants to be Written

Saturday Spotlight: Weirdly Shaped and Well Photographed

Product Review: Daily Boost

Product Review: Marcie Update

May 2013
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