THE 8 ESSENTIAL BRAS YOU NEED FOR YOUR CUPBOARD

Firstly lets talk about colour - unless you're going for the "Sex and the City" look, you probably want your lingerie to be unobtrusive. So, your lingerie wardrobe should include the following colour basics - a nude / beige, a white and a black bra.

If you HAVE to choose between nude, black and white – we would suggest you leave out white and replace with nude. Why? Because, a flesh-tone color is a much more "invisible" colour than white.

Now let the countdown begin…….

8 – Everyday bras…

A woman should have a collection of bras that she draws from for her everyday wear - a week's supply at a minimum. You're not alone if you wear the same bra a few days in a row; most of us do (assuming it isn't soiled by perspiration). But, instead of wearing the same bra for a few days, alternate two or more bras over a week. The reason for this being that a bra should have a day off between wearing. Body heat tends to relax the fabric. It needs time to return to its original shape. Also, an extra day lets the bra air out and feel fresher the next time you put it on.

Your everyday “go to” bra must support you AND look good under most clothes and at the same time must be comfortable.

Freya - Deco Moulded Soft Cup Bra

Fantasie - Belle Underwire Balcony Bra

Kangol - 2 Pack Balconette Bra

7 – The Convertible bra…

A convertible bra has modifiable straps that can be transformed into a halter, racer back, one shoulder or strapless style. It is so handy if you are looking for a quick solution and don’t have time to go shopping.

6 – The strapless bra…

As the name implies, this bra has no straps. Rather it has wide sides and sewn in silicone stitching to keep it in place. This style should be worn with strapless tops, evening gowns, or outfits where a normal bra would show.

5 – A T shirt bra…

T-shirt bras have cups that maintain the breast shape whether on or off. This is achieved by having the cup molded out of a thin foam. Besides giving your breast a great pre-determined shape, a t-shirt bra  totally eliminates any nipple show-through (we call it "bullet proofing"). If you are modesty conscious, a T-shirt bra is a great answer for you. It is the perfect solution under a tight fitting shirt or top.

4 - A Sexy, Demi Cup / balconette Bra…

The truth is, men love demi / balconette bras. This contoured, underwire bra has cups partially cut away to expose the top of the breast. This bra style almost always has wide set shoulder straps as well. It's a very flattering style and comes in handy when you find yourself with a low cut, wide scoop or square neckline where your every day bra will show. Not to mention... it's a great date bra!

3 - A Push-Up Bra…

A push-up bra is designed with additional padding at the bottom portion of the cup, which lifts the breasts to give the illusion of a fuller bust-line. This type of bra comes in handy when an outfit calls for a more filled-out look.

2 - A Quality Sports Bra…

Even if you're only moderately active, a sports bra is a must in your wardrobe. The non-elastic Cooper’s ligaments support breasts. Frequent breast bounce can break down these ligaments and causes permanent sagging in your breasts if not supported. Wearing a sports bra will help prevent damage to the breast tissue. Manufacturers often categorize their sports-bras by the level of impact and exercise intensity: if you participate in various sports or exercise activities, you may need several different sports bras.

1 – A Beautiful Lace Bra…

It's tempting each morning to grab one of your everyday bras to wear. But if you're feeling blue or less-than-feminine, there is no better way to lift your spirits and make you feel great about yourself than putting on a beautiful lacy bra. Every woman needs a pretty lacy bra... and by the way - men love them, especially in black.