Can we talk about BRAS? I remember the excitement of getting my first; I was the last in my year, as I was what was termed ‘a late developer’ in the boob arena. The mortification. How I longed to dance around in my underwear like the other girls. (I was in a boarding school, so I am talking about the dorms).
My mother was having none of it; she was not buying me a bra until I needed it. But as luck would have it, a parcel of second-hand clothes came from some cousins in America with, guess what, some ‘brassieres’ My First Playtex Bra.
My classmates were amazed at my sudden growth spurt over the holidays, as I returned to school with some iconic Playtex ‘cross your heart’ bras, stuffed with toilet paper, I guess. Yes, there was not much to ‘lift and separate’. Have a look at the advertising pictures below…they are exactly the same as my first bras.
Are any of you old enough to remember that campaign?
My Bra Journey
Like most women, I have an array of bras of various sizes, different brands and an assortment of styles in my lingerie drawer. I have had a love affair with lingerie since that longed-for first brassiere, but have found it increasingly difficult in recent years to find ones that are comfortable and give me the cover in the boob area that I require now. And yes, I still want the romantic and sensual sets, but they must be still practical and wearable.
Sizing
I have everything from 34 C to 36 DD in that drawer which made me question sizing. Is there a universal system? Yes there is, but all the manufacturers use different models, so it makes sense that there will be variations. But that is exactly why you should have the help of an expert fitter, who knows the idiosyncracies of each brand.
Playtex Flower Elegance
Below you can see a beautiful young model wearing the set and below that you can see me idly sitting in the garden, displaying my bra, as you do.
A visit to Shaws Department Store in Drogheda for a bra fitting for a (gifted) Playtex Flower Elegance set was enlightening. I had selected the style online from their website www.playtex.co.uk, but because I was unsure as to my exact size decided I would go for a fitting.
Some Pointers for Buying Bras:
1. Go to a store with expert fitters.
2. You will need different bras for different occasions and outfits.
3. It is possible to be different sizes depending on the brand.
4. You must be comfortable; make sure the bra fits you properly and that there are no gapes or bulges.
5. The straps should not dig into you or leave any marks.
6. The band should fit snugly into the nearest hook. As the bra loses elasticity it can be moved to the next set of hooks.
To say I am delighted with my Playtex lingerie set is an understatement.
Playtex Flower Elegance
1. This full-cup bra enhances the bosom, there is no gaping at the side and it offers support through the underwiring and reasonably wide straps.
2. It is comfortable to wear; the lace is soft and not in the least bit itchy or scratchy.
3. It is attractive in style, with a small satiny bow on the bridge between the cups.
4. The matching knickers are equally comfortable. Often, when I like a bra, I find the knickers too skimpy, but not so with Elegance.
Did I mention that the price is mid-range; this bra retails at €38. I will be returning to Playtex because of the quality and elegance of the product and staying for the comfort.
Cross my Heart!
I so remember those old advertisements! Cross your heart!!
When I was in my 30’s I went in to have my very first real fitting. I started crying when she told me my size! I was so far off the mark. What a difference it made to actually purchase a bra that fit!
I know Loretta it is a minefield out there with bras and styles and different sizings…
What a sexy photo Hilda!
I can remember when I bought my first bra s! Aa is what I started with😂😂 I like to shop for lingerie, I love the colours and the fabrics.
It was so mortifying to be small boobed when I was young. I love nice sets..matchy matchy..
Fabulous Hilda – I love the post! Thanks for sharing this wonderful underwear – I need it in my life right now. xx
It is truly lovely. I am going to get the same set in a few different colours.
My first ever bra came from BHS. I went with a friend (my mum didn’t think I needed one) and bought a 30AA as a guess, without being measured. It never fitted properly. A few months later, mum bought me a couple of bras in M&S. They were pretty florals, which were all the rage then. I had a Playtex bra fairly recently and liked the good quality and shaping. But not sure about those conical bras you showed from yesteryear! Maybe on Madonna….
I don’t know Gail a conical bra worn over a shirt…you know we are far more daring now….
I recently bought a Playtex bra and briefs set in a Carrefour supermarket in France. I bought the same size I usually buy in England and this one fits perfectly and feels wonderfully comfortable. Will certainly buy Playtex bras again.
Supermarket shopping for bras!!! Must check out Carrefour next time I am in France.
Well you got the lads’ attention with this one Hilda !
I hope you know what your wife likes in the lingerie area Pat!!!!
Oh my goodness, yes I do remember the cross your heart bra – my mother wore them and I wanted one too. Instead I ended up with a teen bra by Berlie.
I love the look of this posh range and must admit it’s some time since I was fitted for a bra and know that I ought to. My weight does fluctuate by up to half a stone between summer and winter so I know I need different bras for those times.
Hilda I love that shot of you with bra and biker jacket – very racy!
Have a super week!
Anna x
Thanks Anna. I tried some in the bedroom, far too suggestive!!
I totally remember those ads for those bras!!
It was great to hear your memories about you at that time, Hilda!! I remember how exciting it was to get my first bra. And now we think of it as punishment???
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
It is so much harder as you get older Jodie to get one that fits well. XX