Intimate Insider News

September 17, 2012

By Moira Nelson

There’s a chill in the air…And I couldn’t be happier! Before we know it, I’ll be donning my “uniform” of boots, button-downs and blazers. Until then, I’m trying to enjoy the last bit of Summer. I’m down the shore for a few days…attempting to get some much needed rest and relaxation in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island, N.J. I much prefer the beach during the “off season.” The weather is still spectacular, yet it’s quiet and peaceful here. I’ve taken walks on the beach, I’ve watched the sunrise at 6:30am, I’ve admired the adorable Victorian-style historic homes that line the streets in this neighborhood, I’ve had some of the best sea scallops I’ve ever tasted, I’ve wandered in and out of the boutiques around town….all by myself. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to cherish my time alone. It’s been a delightful mini vacation!

While down here, I stopped in to see my friend Marla Wink at Indian Summer at Bay Village in Beach Haven. I presented her with a challenge. I was in the market for a new bra…. But I wanted something different. I am such a creature of habit. Nine times out of ten, I walk out of a bra boutique with the same styles I always wear. So, I asked Marla to show me something new. I walked into the store with an open mind and I let her run the show. I told her what I typically wear and what I like and don’t like about the styles currently available to the full-busted consumer. Over the years, I’ve become very loyal to the Eveden family of brands- Fantasie, Freya and Fauve. So, when she suggested I try a Panache bra, I was a little hesitant. But I promised myself to keep an open mind and I’m sure glad I did. We scored! I am in love with my new Panache Andorra Full Cup Bra. We went up a cup to achieve the proper fit. The lace is very soft yet powerful and I love the underbust/cradle construction. The best part? The color is a beautiful, rich teal color called Lagoon. It’s perfect for Fall. Great job, Marla! You passed the test. I hope the bra itself passes the test of time. In addition, Marla had the Fantasie Rebecca bra in stock in color black. This color is back-ordered in most of the stores in the tri-state area so I had to snag it while I could. Lucky me! I walked out of Indian Summer with two new bras to carry me through the end of the year.

Fashion’s Night Out was held on Thursday, September 6th. I spent the evening with Bethenny Frankel at Macy’s Herald Square. The Intimate Affair featured the Skinnygirl Smoothers n’ Shapers “Real Woman” Fashion Show. It was great to see Bethenny’s fans on the runway modeling her shapewear line which is designed for every body. They were so full of confidence! The winners of Bethenny’s fashion show contest modeled the shapewear alone as well as styled into various looks which showed the guests how to wear this fashionable line that is meant to be seen. It was an exciting event which was hosted and emcee’d by Bethenny herself.

My partner, Luis Paredes, and I attended Small Boutique Fashion Week on Saturday, September 8, 2012. The SBFW2012 Fashion Show and Market is geared towards small business owners, emerging designers, and novelty designers that are looking to get their start by selling to small boutiques and unique shops. We were pleased to see lingerie-inspired looks on the runway. Several designers presented styles which were constructed of ultra fine and sheer fabrics which revealed the undergarments worn underneath. In essence, the lingerie worn underneath became part of the total look.

The International Lingerie Show (ILS) was held September 10^th through the 12^th at the RIO in Las Vegas. The ILS trade show leans towards the sexy/adult side of our industry. Luis Paredes of The Lingerie Journal attended the trade show and has posted numerous articles and images of the show on www.TheLingerieJournal.com and on The Lingerie Journal Facebook page.

To celebrate the end of Fashion Week, The Lingerie Alliance hosted the official Nolcha Fashion Week Closing Party in collaboration with Label 55 on Thursday, September 13, 2012. Nolcha Fashion Week is an award-winning event for independent fashion designers to showcase their collections to a global audience of press, retailers, stylists and industry influencers. My partner, Luis Paredes, and I were very pleased to be partnered with Label 55 and Nolcha Fashion Week as they share our passion for supporting independent brands.

On Thursday, September 27^th, Linda’s in Murray Hill is hosting a Simone Perele Trunk Show from 10am until 9pm. Guests will have the opportunity to view the entire Fall 2012 collection and preview the Spring 2013 collection in store. Linda is offering 10% off all Simone Perele purchases on the 27^th (including pre-orders of the Spring 13 styles) plus each guest will receive a Free Gift with purchase. After 6pm, Linda’s will be turned into a “Parisian Paradise” replete with Parisian treats and cocktails. Oooo La La!

Also on September 27^th, Sweetest Sin in Red Bank, New Jersey will be celebrating her third anniversary! The party starts in the boutique at 5pm and includes free professional bra fittings, exclusive specials, 10% off all purchases, pink bubbly and light snacks. Then… as if that wasn’t enough…. Guests are invited to join Angie Courtney, owner of Sweetest Sin, for an “after party” at Taste Lounge in the Red Bank Galleria. If you bring your receipt from Sweetest Sin Boutique, you are treated to a free cocktail. The Intimate Affair will feature live music, a Trunk Show showcasing the high-end lingerie and beauty brand Naked Princess, Gift Bags (including items from our favorite luxury brand, Naked Princess,) Raffle Prizes including an exclusive Gift Basket filled with steamy goodies and a Gift Card valued at $200 from Sweetest Sin! As I’ve mentioned before, Angie Courtney is a true partner in her community and gives back in every way she can. At this Intimate Affair, all proceeds from the Raffles and 20% of the proceeds from Taste Lounge will be donated to The Semper Fi Fund. Also, Angie is gearing up for the ING New York City Marathon where she will be running on behalf of the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. And, Angie is already making plans for the annual “Go Naked and Check Yourself” fundraiser in mid November which raises awareness of detectable cancers including breast cancer, skin cancer and testicular cancer. More details to follow!