Photo by Lanaya Flavelle l Model Elly Mayday (C) 2013

Once upon a time there was a moment in time that living on an island and being a plus woman had these huge disadvantages. You could never find a bra with the right fit, let alone a cute or sexy looking one at that. They would usually feel uncomfortable, totally unflattering and completely hideous. Now the times are changing and full-figured ladies have so many beautiful and seductive options, its choosing the one that suits your style and meets your needs. Have you ever had that dreaded moment, that one instant that makes you cringe? I do, and its usually when I have to update my intimate apparel a.k.a bra’s and panties. It’s frustrating at times to try on so many different brands that run in a huge range of sizes, just to find 1 decent fitting bra. I pretty much have two favorite places to purchase intimates: Macy’s and Torrid. I prefer to purchase panties in Macy’s just because the have some particular brands that I love (Bali and Maidenform). I prefer the feel and fit of firm control briefs, than the regular cotton brief that you may find from major department stores. I tend to always match them up with my tops and they always end up looking good. I must admit that I love Torrid bra’s because of the look and feel and after finding out that the current designer for their intimate wear was the designer for Victoria Secrets’s, I was totally sold!

Bralettes + Bandeaus A bralette is a soft cup lingerie that was made popular in the 1020’s made out of the finest laces and silks and without underwire, these were made for lounging around the house  without wires or molded cups, think on par to a sports bra, but without the intensity to hold you in. They have thin or lacy straps like a regular bra, and provide a reasonable amount of support for small to average busted women. A bandeau is made out soft fabric and delicate trimmings providing little support or shaping, use more for decorative purposes. Both are designed to use as an added accessory for any look.

Demi Bra The demi has an alluring shape, coverage, moderate lift and natural support (runs up to 46 DD cup). 

Balconette Bra The balconette is a smooth lightly lined cup, that enhances the natural shape, its contoured, comfortable and has supportive straps (runs up to 48 DDD cup).

Multi Way and/or Multi Purpose Bra The Multi Way and/or multi purpose is the perfect support and has 5 ways to wear: classic, strapless, cross back, halter or asymmetrical. With an added no slip band for a secure fit. Racer back style cannot be adjusted (runs up to 46 DDD cup).

Push Up Bra The push up has a deep plunge, with added plush padding that creates a sexy cleavage, for deep neck lines (runs up to 48 DDD cup).

Panties and Briefs Panties and briefs all have specific occasions, depending on the support and coverage that you may need. I love to lounge around the house in boy shorts, but when going out I love to wear high cut lace briefs. Remember that each of them has a purpose and you need to think about what you’ll be wearing. Another super important fact about your intimate wear is the care. These usually should be hand washed and/or done on your delicate cycle. they should be layed flat to dry and stored in your drawers the same way. They should always be worn on the first hooks of its straps and when they continue to stretch out, then continue to adjust. If you feel you need a few additional inches, remember you can always purchase an extender. But most importantly fashion is supposed to be fun, so remember to always embrace and love yourself and your curves. Because the most indispensable curve is your smile and that is the soul of every outfit.