Bra Wardrobe Essentials

"Without the proper foundation there can be no fashion." - Christian Dior

You’ve probably heard that 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size, but what do you do when you find out YOU are wearing the wrong bra size? For the sake of your health, comfort, and showing off your body’s best shape, it's time to revamp your lingerie wardrobe.

I’ve put together a starter essentials list for you. These are the pieces you should have in your lingerie drawer to work with your wardrobe.

T-shirt Bra/Full Cup Support Bra - in Dark and Neutral

Most women have form-fitting shirts in their wardrobe (t-shirts, tank tops) that may be a type of fabric which shows off every detail (silk, satin, thin sweaters). For these types of shirts, you will need your bra to be as seam free as possible. A smooth cup t-shirt bra is best; if you are full-busted, try Empreinte moulded lace bra's, the cups are completely seam free and have unbelievable support. You can also look for a support bra with flat seams. Always do a t-shirt test when buying new bras, you can see the shape of your body better and you can see how visible the bra is under clothing.

To work with your wardrobe, you will need one in a neutral (beige or blush) and one in a dark colour (black, navy, purple). You will want one of each, dark and neutral, so if you are wearing a light coloured shirt your dark bra doesn't show through your shirt and if you are wearing a dark shirt, the colour of your shirt doesn't dye your neutral bra when rubbing against it.

Sport Bra

If you do any kind of sport - yoga, running, tennis, biking - you NEED a sport bra. Your bust can move up to 8cm up and down during exercise, ripping your Cooper's ligaments, which are what keep your bust line up and perky.

A sport panty is essential as well; when working out we obviously sweat. Sweat and heat are a breeding ground for bacteria. Sport panties have moisture wicking and antibacterial properties to keep you dry and free of bacteria.

Strapless Bra

A big fashion faux pas is having ugly bra straps showing; they can ruin your whole outfit. A strapless bra will be worn with strapless outfits, one-shouldered outfits, spaghetti strap outfits, halter-style outfits. Straps can sometimes be pretty and accessorize your outfit, but most of the time, straps are a big no-no.

Racer Back or Convertible Bra

If you have any shirts in your wardrobe that are racer back or are sleeveless with big armholes, a racer back should be in your lingerie wardrobe. You can wear a strapless bra with these shirts, but if you wear this style of shirt often, a racer back or convertible bra is a more comfortable option. Note: Racer back bras are not sport bras. You still need a sport bra in your wardrobe.

Sexy, Feel Fabulous Bras

Now this is the category some people skip, but you shouldn’t! Here’s why:

Being a woman is something to be proud of. A woman’s body is a beautiful creation, no matter what your size, shape or skin flaws. It’s how we hold ourselves. Sexy lingerie is lingerie that makes YOU feel sexy! It doesn't have to mean lace and frills (but to some it might!), It could be as simple as a print or a high waisted panty that enhances your curves. It's not about the size you wear, it's about how you wear your size. When you feel sexy, your attitude shows it, and what’s sexier than a body-positive attitude? A matching or coordinating panty (in my opinion) is a must with sexy, feel fabulous bras.

Seamfree Panties

Every woman needs seamfree panties in her wardrobe; you will always find an outfit you need them for. We have all seen the dreaded VPL (visible panty line) on someone and it is never a good look. Having at least one black and one nude in your wardrobe will work with your figure hugging dresses, pants, leggings, yoga pants and jeans. Black for darks and nude for your light colours.