Lingerie Briefs

Winter has definitely taken its toll.  This beautiful picture, taken just one week ago from my living room window, belies the devastation that this season’s storms have wielded in much of the country.  Buried under blankets of snow are fallen trees and broken electrical wires interrupting the everyday pace of life.  I think we are all ready for a change.  So when I saw this delightful image of spring percolating        through the melting snow in my yard this weekend, I realized that very soon I could shed all these layers of clothes and break free of  winter’s confinement.  That, of course, means bathing suit season, which brings a whole other set of issues to the feminine mind.

Searching for the perfect swimsuit can be quite a challenge, particularly for those of us who are well endowed. That is why the discovery of Panache’s swimwear line has actually inspired me to try on a bathing suit.  Not only are they constructed to fit a 30 to  38 D through J cup bust, but the best selling Geneva collection is also available in a multitude of mix and match separates as well as  a one piece maillot (SW0367).  However, my favorite piece is the folded panty (SW0368) that transforms from a modern bikini fit to a high waisted retro brief.   Paired with the  underwire bikini top (SW0369), this two piece set is designed to enhance a variety of curvy bodies.   Created in hot tropical coral or reliable black, we can now all go to the beach with panache.

“We swim because we are too sexy for a sport that requires clothes.”

Available At:

The Fitting Touch:  Birmingham,Alabama

Le Soutien:  Denver, Colorado

Town Shop:   New York City, New York

Blum’s Lingerie:  Williamsville & Patchogue, New York

Ann’s Bra and Lingerie Shop:  Chesterfield & Wentzville, Mo.

Barbara’s New Beginnings:  Fort Wayne & Zionsville, Indiana

Personally Yours Lingerie:  Bedminster, New Jersey

Creative Woman:  Monrovia, California

Brachic:  Ottawa, Ontario

www.myintimacy.com

www.barenecessities.com

lindasonline

DON’T FORGET TO CLICK HERE TO ENTER THE RAFFLE TO WIN A MIDNIGHT BY CAROLE HOCHMAN CHEMISE AND ROBE

**sign up to advertise on this blog.  click here**

I have been watching the Olympics for the past two weeks, mesmerized by the audacious athleticism that seems to be part of the Winter Games.  Although this event is, without a doubt, the premiere international gathering of the world’s sporting elite, Canada’s declaration that they will “own the podium”, has enabled the friendly rivalry between the USA and Canada.  The United States leads the medal count in a sport’s arena usually dominated by European skill and training and Canada holds the record for Gold Medals.  There is something to be said about competing on home soil, being cheered on by faithful fans.  Although there have been extraordinary performances by many of our global partners, the American and Canadian sub story has contributed to a familial North American Pride.

That is why I can not resist telling you about the Canadian dominance at the Curve Lingerie shows that recently wrapped up in Las Vegas and New York.  Attending for all six days, it was, for me, a marathon event.  A combination of brands fundamental to any Intimate’s assortment, as well as a laboratory for new design talent, Curve showcases lines from all over the world.  But, if I had to say which country stood on the podium as a standout group of emerging labels, well, I would proclaim “O Canada”.  Standing in gold medal position was: Montelle Intimates; French inspired foundations, Blush Lingerie; sexy, beautifully merchandised daywear, and La Fee Verte; exquisite 19 mm silk lingerie, trimmed in leavers laces.  Each of these brands presents a unique and focused identity, providing real value within their expertise.  Together this Canadian trio answers the age old retail credo of “good, better and best” in a fashion assortment.

Available At:

Tryst Lingerie: Toronto, Ontario,  Canada

Tres Jolie:  Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Ainsi Soit-Elle:  Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Simons:  Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Iris Lingerie:  Brooklyn, NY

Pampered Passions:  Englewood, Colorado

Remebrance: Hanover, New Hampshire

www.pantysalad.com
.

DON’T FORGET: CLICK HERE TO ENTER THE RAFFLE TO WIN A FREE MIDNIGHT BY CAROLE HOCHMAN CHEMISE AND ROBE

My grandfather traveled from Russia to America at the age of 12 looking for a better life.  His quest ended in Ohio as the owner of an upscale dress boutique from which he travelled to New York several times a year to search for the newest fashion ideas to satisfy his stylish customers.  His passion for innovation and instincts for saleable items fueled the growth of his retail legacy.  He had a merchant’s heart.  I wonder if I inherited his merchandising DNA.  From the moment I started my career, my greatest thrill has been the discovery of a new product and the belief, somewhere in my gut, that presented correctly, it would generate profit.  I have always referred to it as “the thrill of the kill”.

That is why when I discovered The Coobie Bra, while visiting one of my client’s stores, Underdressed, in Dobbs Ferry, NY, I was inspired.  Here was a basic item, marketed in a fun, sassy and unique new way.   I have had so many inquiries from women searching for a soft, simple, comfortable bra that could actually enhance a smaller bust.  Constructed in a supple nylon and Lycra fabric, the Coobie comes with removable pads  so that it actually satisfies sizes 32A through 36D.  An extra pair of clear straps supports its fashion versatility.  What makes me so excited is its key item potential.  It is available in seven colors, at a great price and even better, one size really fits most.  Add to this fact that layering is a major trend this spring and my intuition tells me that the Coobie bra is a home run.

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes”… Marcel Proust

Available at:

shopcoobie.com

Underdressed:  Dobbs Ferry, New York

Bellefleur Lingerie:  Seattle, Washington

Braserie Dearie:  Erie, Pennsylvania

Harps Lingerie: Birmingham, Michigan

Milky Way:  Crested Butte, Colorado

Hattie:  Ojai, California

Lil Lingerie Shop:  Pharr, Texas

Don’t forget to click and enter the raffle to win a Midnight by Carole Hochman chemise and robe .

Last month, while walking through the fashionable Marais neighborhood in Paris, I saw this incredible wedding dress featured in the window of a bridal boutique.  This symbol of innocence and purity is superbly executed in the newest fashion trends.  How French!  Several months ago, I wrote a blog on Eternal Seduction in which I proffered Concepts Paris’ spring 2010 trend predictions:  poetic architecture, airy lightness, soft focus and the importance of the color white.  Here, I was witness to this vision artfully translated into a piece of fashion sculpture.  Its creative design, rendered in white, is an affirmation of virtue with the promise of new possibilities.  Fresh, clean and exquisitely constructed, the dress embodies the meaning of chic:  sophisticated, classy and amazing.

The color white, so often perceived as a fundamental in any underwear wardrobe, has emerged in the market as a marker of style this spring.  How fitting that Chantelle, the quintessential French lingerie maker has affirmed their allegiance to this fashion manifesto with the introduction of their best selling T-shirt bra, C-Chic (#3581) in the color white.  This signature bra with the subtle C monogram printed on tulle over a lined cup that insures coverage, is available for all size ranges, petite through curvy girl.  Added extras are the tiny clasp that converts the back straps to a racer back bra and the tag less construction that insures all day comfort.   Paired with this matching shorty, (#3584) Chantelle has managed to elevate a simple basic to a sensational statement.

“A girl should be two things, classy and fabulous” … Coco Chanel

Available at:

BraSmyth.com

thelittleflirt.com

The Bra Shoppe:  Bakersfield, California

Le Soutien:  Denver, Colorado

Journelle:  Miami, Florida

Adrienne Clarisse: Libertyville, Illinois

Barbara’s New Beginnings:  Fort Wayne, Indiana

Claire de Lune Lingerie:  Overland Park, Kansas

Bare Necessities:  Lutherville, Maryland

Sal Liz:  Flowood, Mississipi

Bella Intimates:  Rye, New Hampshire

Town Shop:  N.Y.C., New York ( uptown)

Bosom Buddies: Paoli, Pennsylvania

Coup De Foudre Lingerie:  Washington, DC

NOTE: See us Now on www.Stylesight.com Sites That Inspire

No tale better expresses a little girl’s dream of lasting love than that of the handsome prince  wakening the beautiful princess from her long dark slumber.  On a personal note, I was never very taken by this illusion, but, I have to admit that the age old story, filled with fairies and witches, wedding court scenes and rambling bushes protecting an empire for 100 sleepy years, was definitely a gift for my imagination.  So last Thursday night, when I saw the NYC ballet presentation of   Tschaikovsky’s            The Sleeping Beauty, I was definitely enchanted by the extraordinary staging, exquisite costumes and phenomenal choreography of Peter Martin’s ballet masterpiece.  But much more compelling was the subtle, delicate strength and grace of the dancer’s movements.  Ballet is all about feminine details; absolute stillness, perfect balance, and powerful bursts of emotion.  The magical color palette that saturates the stage produces a feast of soft beauty. It may not be reality, but the fantasy is worth the moment.

Ballet is, to me, the perfect correlation to the essence of true lingerie.  It is all about romantic fancy expressed by the discipline of detail.  No other designer better embodies this than England’s Jane Woolrich.  From her atelier in northern England, Jane’s personal devotion is translated into designs recognized worldwide for their delicate detail, exquisite handwork and excellent fit. Bias cut nightwear that float in clouds around the body are still made with leavers laces that are hand cut, appliquéd, ruched, and pleated. Tiny ribbons and pearls add mystery to garments draped in silk, cotton voile and the finest satins. They are the quintessential expression of passion and the power of love and, the ultimate Valentine’s gift.

“The ballet is a purely female thing: it is a woman, a garden of beautiful flowers….”  George Ballanchine.

Available at:

La Silhouette:  Maderia, Ohio

Trousseau:  Vienna, Virginia

La Petite Coquette:  N.Y.C., New York (downtown)

Lingerie on Lex: N.Y.C., New York (uptown)

Bloom Lingerie:  Hingham, Massachusettes

Bits of Lace:  Charleston, South Carolina

Hope Chest:  Haverford, Pennsylvania

Wynn Resorts Retail:  Las Vegas, Nevada

Birdies:  Kansas City, Missouri

Top Drawer Lingerie:  Houston, Texas

www.pampour.com

PS:  Jane will be showing her line at Curve NY

When I think of the Betsey Johnson Intimates collection the first thing that pops into my head is Cyndi Lauper’s award winning anthem of female solidarity, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”.  This flirtatious homage to the feminine spirit heralded a new wave in music.  Slightly aggressive, teasing and full of enthusiasm, it defined her break out album, She’s So Unusual.   Dying her hair different colors and wearing radical fashions, Lauper’s personal eccentric style defined her as a wild child.  Fun, mercurial, eclectic and full of energy, she continues today to project the playful attitude of an independent but sensual woman.

 No one follows her own fashion rules quite like Betsey Johnson, so when I saw this sexy little Love em’ & Leave em’ bra and panty set created  by the Carole Hochman Design Group for the Betsey Johnson Intimates brand, I thought, again, of the correlation of these two  icons of individual style.  The Betsey Johnson Intimates brand, renowned for its colorful patterns, sexy shapes and fabulous fit, is the fun in a lingerie wardrobe.  This soft molded deep plunge demi cup underwire bra (723830) and matching low rise thong (722830) are constructed in a stretch mesh point d’esprit, embellished with little bows and trimmed with a delicate scalloped lace.  The whimsical floral and pink heart print makes it a perfect way to say Happy Valentine’s Day!

 “I am usually the sparkle in a closet”…. Betsey Johnson

Available at:

Nordstroms: all stores

The Pink Slip: New York City, New York

Belle Fleur Lingerie:  Seattle, Washington

Lingerie Lingerie: Towson, Maryland

Joovay:  Rhinebeck, New York

The Fitting Touch: Birmingham, Alabama

The Dain Shop: Morristown, New Jersey

Galatea: Hoboken, New Jersey

http://www.karmaloop.com

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com

I wrote my final thesis in college on Vincent Van Gogh and the impact that the color yellow had on his paintings.  It seems counterintuitive that this color, a symbol of optimism, is so pervasive in the creations of such a tortured soul. Perhaps it can be attributed to his passion for work and need to see the possibility of beauty in the every day detail of life, a sunflower, a starry sky, or a haystack. But look closely and you will notice that yellow is a highlight on a canvas saturated with the inkiest blues and greens.  Thus, the balance of his nature and the light he so desperately sought to clarify his life.

There were many trends presented at the Interfiliere International lingerie show in Paris from which I just returned;  but the infusion of golden hues and yellow accents juxtaposed with the intense blues and greens that will dominate the lingerie palette retrieved my long ago interpretation of this revolutionary artist.  Throughout the exposition many wonderful innovative details created surprising  interpretations of classic lingerie.  

 What it tells us is that there is a need for an unexpected accent to spark a customer’s interest.  Concepts Paris calls it “Serendipity”

 “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together” …         Vincent Van Gogh

Ornamental jewels, subtly placed

Light and airy laces with a hint of shimmer

Graphic lace patterns, organic and bold

Tiny floral motifs and refined patterns

I have always been intrigued with art that focuses on the grace and beauty of the feminine mystique.  I have collected illustrations and prints that depict woman engrossed in the simple acts of daily life; bathing, drinking a cup of tea, ironing, or nursing.  Many artists have managed this pictorial poetry to celebrate the female form, but when my first child was born, I became particularly enamored with the work of   Mary Cassatt.  Cassatt’s paintings of mothers engaged in quiet moments with their children communicate the serenity and strength of the maternal bond.  Her lyrical strokes and gentle lighting convey an intimate visual message.  The rituals of womanhood can be sustained with a sense of dignity and purpose.

Mary Cassatt would have approved of the Elle Macpherson Intimates Maternelle nursing bra (E71-135).  It reflects Elle’s desire to design a maternity bra that satisfies a nursing mother’s practical needs while still maintaining the sensuality and flair of the Elle Macpherson brand.  This best selling bra is created in a soft tactel fabric and lined in cotton for all day comfort. The full coverage, no wire molded construction features a unique drop down cup for easy nursing access and a 6 hook back closure that respects the ever changing figure of a new mom.  Delicate lace trim reminds us that this is still lingerie. Multitasking and femininity are mutually compatible.

“While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.”

Available At:             

Night and Day Lingerie:  Andover, Massachusetts

Mothers Milk Boutique:  Scotsdale, Arizona

Sylene: Chevy Chase, Maryland

www.lindasonline.co

The Pink Petticoat:  Tampa, Florida

Town shop:  New York City, New York (uptown)

La Petite Coquette:   New York City, New York (downtown)

La Silhouette: Madeira, Ohio

Bellefleur: Seattle, Washington

postscript:  the response to the blog has been outstanding and to kick off the new year we are now offering sponsorship and advertising opportunities.  Learn more: CLICK HERE

It’s January. It’s freezing in New York and everyone is in a nesting mood.  There is a dearth of inspiration and stimulation.  Fortunately, I am traveling to Paris and the Salon De Lingerie exposition that I will attend next week.  This international lingerie show will highlight new product that will be available at retail for fall 2010.  My colleagues from Concepts Paris will stage their innovative trend forums at the Interfiliere Intimate Apparel fabric, print and color expose.  My goal is to mine new product for clients who have charged me to search for fresh ideas.  The show is a unique perspective and a catalyst for moving forward.

In this travel climate, I have to really plan what I am going to pack.  I have learned from experience, I need to travel light.  That’s why I want to take the Wendy Glez Grecian lounge pajamas in my suitcase.  Designed in rayon jersey knit and Wendy’s trademark french lace,  this drawstring pant (2651)  and shelf bra cami (1210)  will fold into the smallest corner of my luggage but will fulfill any bedroom dressing needs from sleep to lounge for my entire trip.  Absolutely feminine and completely practical, this modern collection of comfortable  “loungerie” is a whole new way of looking at home wear.

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.”   Henry Miller

Available at:

A Brief Affair:  Great Neck, New York

A Tropical Affair:  Santa Barbara, California

La Petite Coquette: New York City, New York

Douce Et Romantique:  Encinatas, California

Sheeab.com

Fanny Wrappers Lingerie:  San Obispo, California

Muse Intimates:  Tulsa, Oklahoma

Ann Marie Lingerie: Seattle, Washington

Bonne Nuit:  East Hampton, New York

Lavendar Lace:  Brooklyn, New York

Bella Fiora:  Tuckahoe, New York

I am not much of a movie aficionado, but last week I went to see Avatar, because I was curious about the 3D effects.   I did not expect to leave so inspired, not only by the innovative film technology but also by a storyline critical to sustaining our environment, our country and our sense of personal integrity.  Avatar is all about character, good and bad and the story reveals itself in a visual bath of color and texture, so rich, that it is mystical in its impact.  It is not the dialog or the acting that drives this allegory, but imagination and vision and all the expectations that this can evoke.

Avatar reminded me of Hanky Panky, a company dedicated to the environment, to protecting United States based production and the original creators of the one size stretch lace thong.  Apart from this correlation to the film’s theme, I could imagine the heroine, Neytiri, wearing this very feminine soft cup bralette (# 113) from the Hanky Panky Signature Lace Collection on her thin, small busted body.  It is constructed for a petite fit with it’s over the head access and adjustable straps.  Besides the fact that the triangle cup bra is a key fashion layering statement this spring, the plethora of colors in this lush, textured floral lace bra could easily be from a garden on the imaginary planet of Pandora.

“We are seeing the birth of a new perspective of the world, where ecology and economics are two sides of the same coin.”               Leif Johansson

Available at:

Barenecessities.com

Lulu’s:  Guilford, Connecticut

Les Amis:  Seattle, Washington

Romantique Lingerie:  Los Gatos, California

Allure Lingerie:  New York City, New York

Trousseau:  Chicago, Illinois

Le Papillion:  Greenville, Delaware

Basics Underneath:  New Orleans, Louisiana

postscript:  the response to the blog has been outstanding and to kick off the new year we are now offering sponsorship and advertising opportunities.  Learn more:  CLICK HERE

I was going to take a pass on writing this week. It’s a lazy week, full of family invasion and distraction. But I have been chatting with several of my industry clients and friends and I thought I might offer these words of encouragement. Last February, as I guided a well attended panel discussion with industry professionals aptly titled, Navigating the Storm, there was a great deal of trepidation. The question was, who will sink and who will swim? Those of you, who battened down, steered the course and kept your eyes on the horizon are still here. All the messages I mentored in that dialog are still valid and those of you with whom I consulted and benefited from my input, I wish to thank you for your patronage. We are at the beginning  of a New Year. I still believe that all of your success and all of your future cash flow resides in insuring the infrastructure of your business has been correctly analyzed and put in order. So, have a happy and prosperous New Year.  The storm is clearing.

“Crisis changes the dynamic. It’s an opportunity to do things you could not do before.”
David Leonhardt…. The New York Times Magazine

Christmas is just days away.  For me, the holidays feel more sedate this year. There seems to be more reflection, a deeper observation in the details of our world, the brief moments and small gestures that make life sound.  Observing the ornaments on my tree, and knowing that I began  to collect them 35 years ago, I manage to negotiate a trail of memories that defy the unknown terrain that many of us have been forced to confront in this difficult past year.  Focusing on what is instead of what is not can provide a form of poetry in our lives that can not be bought.  This was my general message when I was interviewed last week on Centanni Broadcasting digital web radio by Betsy Karp, health and wellness coach from Journey to the Answers.  She asked me how I came to write this blog and in our discussion, I explained why I believe that…

 “Lingerie is the Poetry in a Woman’s Wardrobe”.  

If you choose to listen to my radio interview, click here. 

Feel good about yourself, notice the details. 

 HAVE A HAPPY HOLIDAY!

What would you imagine that Christina Hendricks (aka Joan Holloway), the sassy femme fatale of the award winning TV series, Mad Men, is wearing under her iconic 1950’s dress?  My guess is this retro inspired slip  from On Gossamer.  I have become a real fan of this extraordinarily well written and superbly staged new drama that harks back to a time in history when women were just on the brink of claiming their own identities. Even though “Joanie” is introduced to the story as the sexpot office manager who knows her place, she evolves as the plot progresses into the critical administrative control in the company infrastructure.   Perhaps her lingerie gives her the sexy confidence to embrace who she is.

 Besides the fact that every single detail; props, costumes, and historical references included, is 100% true to the era, there is a very contemporary story being told.  Women will express themselves and defy labels no matter how fierce the struggle.  This lace and nylon/spandex chemise (82809)  from On Gossamer’s Everyday, Pretty Hot collection celebrates every detail that vintage archives define for ladies intimates, and yet, its updated fit and seductive shape insure that this sensual slip will make a woman feel like a goddess in her office wear.

She can do what she needs to do and be who she wants to be, and best of all, it’s her little secret!

 “I am not a has-been.  I am a will be.”  ~Lauren Bacall

Available at:

Nordstroms

www.tashilingerie.com

My Intimacy: New York City, N.Y.

Something Comfortable: Rehoboth,Delaware

The Lingerie Store: Oklahoma

Knickers: Glen Ellyn, Illinois 

The Pink Petticoat: Tampa, Florida

Last week I had the opportunity to see the very funny theatrical re-incarnation of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film, The 39 Steps, at the Helen Hayes Theater on Broadway.  This award winning show manages to take an established dramatic thriller and re-invent it as a comical tour de force:  yet, it never deviates from the original script. Acknowledging several references to Hitchcock classics, this plot of espionage and murder is transformed into a brand new story by a cast of four extraordinary actors playing multiple roles at breakneck speed.  I also have to say that having Bill, Hillary and Chelsea Clinton sitting six rows in front of me upped the whole energy level.   As the iconic Peter Allen lyrics profess, “Everything old is new again.”

The whole character of this matinee revival, pre war costumes and props included, reminds me of Wacoal’s new Retro Chic bra (855186) with its glamourous homage to  vintage style.  Designed in a combination of Chantilly lace overlay on nylon mesh, this bra is a contemporary twist on an art deco standard.   Maintaining the integrity of the Wacoal fit, the retro chic bra is an intriguing and dramatic enhancement of a D through G cup figure.

A sentimental tribute to the past, this nostalgic bra and panty (841186) promise a romantic future.

Available at:

Freshpair.com

Whatshebuys.com

Elegance Underneath: Naperville, Illinois

Barbara Graves  Intimate Fashions: Little Rock, Arkansas

Le Papillon Boutique: Wilmington, Delaware

Up Bras That Fit: Escanaba, Michigan

Zovo Lingerie: Seattle, Washington

Bra Shoppe: Bakersville, California