Bra Essentials: Comfort, Fit and Beauty

Q: Wearing a bra is something that I consider a daily punishment. What must I do to get a bra that looks good and isn’t so painful?
A: You’re not alone. Sixty-five percent of all women seek more comfort from their bra; eighty-five percent wear the wrong size altogether. The right-fitting bra can make you look years younger, pounds thinner; like you had a breast lift, without surgery. Bras are like shoes or jeans; if you’re a certain size in one style or brand, that doesn’t mean you’re the same size in all. Our expert fitters will help you determine what the right size and style is for you, whether for everyday wear or a special occasion.

Q: I’m expecting! Help!
A: How exciting! We love helping women as their bodies change throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Your body knows exactly when you need to change your bra. You may start to feel uncomfortable around your ribs as your belly pops out or experience tenderness as your breasts start to change. We’ll help you into a bra that will adjust with your changing figure, as well as after baby is here, that ebbs and flows with you as your milk supply changes. Get your fitting two to four weeks before delivery. An expert fitter will be able to approximate your size to accommodate breast feeding. Some women choose to wait until post-delivery, when their milk has come in. New moms should own at least three nursing bras—one to wear, one in the wash and one on standby. Also, consider purchasing a sleep bra for your hospital stay. ■

Terry Levine opened clair de lune Lingerie & Bra Boutique in Hawthorne Plaza in Overland Park, Kansas, in October 2004, serving the greater Kansas City metro area and beyond. Clair de lune emphasizes personalized customer service with expert bra fittings, changing women’s lingerie shopping experience. Levine’s well-curated collection includes high-quality European and European-influenced brands, many exclusive to Kansas City. Discerning women enjoy a unique and intimate environment at clair de lune, where the boutique’s warm interior features soft lighting, boudoir-style furnishings and five expansive fitting rooms. clair de lune offers bra sizes from 28-52 band, A-K cup and also carries bridal, maternity/nursing, post-surgical (second-stage garments), sleepwear, hosiery and accessories. Call 913-491-3232 or visit clairdelunelingerie.com to schedule a bra fitting appointment.