Construction - How It's Made and Why

No matter your shape or size, there is a bra made with you in mind. And if you're anything like me, you like to know why it is made that way.

"Why is my favorite and most comfortable bra made with seams? Why are there so many hooks on the back? Why are the straps so thick, why is the cup so stiff?" These are all such valid questions I hear everyday, and as many of you know I love the opportunity to educate.

Seaming:

Several of our most popular softcup bras are what they call "three part cups" - see diagram for visual explanation of this design.

The tension and structure which allows for the maximum amount of fullness to be ensconced inside the cup is literally created by the seams - a single piece cup would not be able to fit nearly as much projected tissue, in fact it would flatten the shape of the bust instead. (Look at any minimizer to see what I mean.) Taut fabric pulled and held tight by the seaming allows for the most precise fit for a fuller bust and the greatest uplift and separation. While potentially distracting in a tight white T-shirt, the seams are easily camouflaged by patterns and darker colors, thicker fabrics as the weather affords or even a smoothing camisole over the bra. 

Hooks/Width of the Band:

The band of the bra - that part wrapping around your ribs - provides the support of your foundation, and for support thicker is better. The wider the band and the more hooks in the back, the more firm and flattering uplift your bra can provide. Please take for example, the beautiful Chantelle that we have nicknamed "The BackFat Bra."

That wiiiiiide band at the back is better looking under your tighter clothes than a skimpy one-hook bra. It makes practical sense - a wide strip of fabric smooths comfortably and distributes the weight of your breasts over a larger area, while a teeny band under pressure emphasizes the elasticity of our skin (isn't that a diplomatic way of putting it!)

Wide shoulder straps also factor into this for similar reasons, with the added bonus of often resting easier and staying on the shoulders better than their thinner counterparts.


Stiffness of cups:

Rather than beating around the bush, let's all agree that molded bras are for modesty. The added bonus of no nipple show-through is the structure of the cup actually picks up and holds the breast higher than a soft fabric could. A pre-shaped cup is not only very flattering in thin clothes but is also extremely comfortable in regards to lift and hold, especially for the greater proportions, due to its inflexible nature. Some of our most popular wirefree bras have molded cups. All the shape and support and none of the wire.

Any further questions? I am more than pleased to research any lingerie related queries you could come up with and I love the opportunity to share my knowledge.

Personal_service@jokaren.com or post to our Facebook Wall.

See you soon!

Jaye
Assistant Manager

Sports bras Fit and Style for A to D cups

It's been a long time since our previous Sports Bra post (it doesn't even mention our Panache Sports Bra or the Elomi High Impact - these bras go to H+ cups, and can start at a 30 band - amazing proportions!)

Alexis A/B Small-XL

Sports Bras for a more average sized cup (A-D) have come a long way since the tight bandeau of yesteryear which seemed to restrict your breath as much as your breasts.

Alexis A/B Small-XL

Phoebe A/B XS-XL

Phoebe C/D XS-XL

I love how thoughtful Moving Comfort has been with their various styles and engineering techniques for those of us who are adequately endowed and sufficiently active.


 Little details (as pictured) really make me feel as though I can be a better athlete as my sports bra works as hard as I do!

Rebound 30C-38DD

Rebound 30C - 38DD

 Having adjustments in the band and straps can customize a sports bra to your particular frame, making the support and compression perfect for you. All of these sports bras (and that fabulous hipster panty) are made of sweat wicking, breathable fabric with added panels for ultimate coolness.




Grab your workout buddy and come in to get professionally fit today!

Jaye
Assistant Manager

The Seven Bras Every Woman Needs

Some women wear the same shirt everyday... but for the rest of us, we like variety.
If you have a closet full of tops and dresses you can't wear because you don't have the proper undergarments, check out this list.

1. Tshirt Bra

From the name I bet you've guessed this is a smooth cup bra, molded for modesty and shape. Best for anything jersey knit that clings to your body. One of our latest bestsellers has a flat lace cup and a wide back for the most flattering of uplifts. (Goes to H cup!)

 2. Convertible

Straps peek just slightly .. or a lot? This bra is versatile and allows for several permutations in the angles of the straps. The perfect bra to take on vacation, or to college, or anywhere that an all-in-one bra is needed! Current favorites vie between a lightweight Chantelle (goes to G cup) which has the option to cross in the back and a Wacoal with four choices of loops in the back to move the straps around.

 3. Strapless

So recently I've taken to wearing my strapless as often as I can, and oddly enough, I am joining the ranks of women who deem a strapless the most comfortable! Whether you prefer the freedom or you simply need it for a strapless top or dress, this is a staple for your lingerie wardrobe. Our old standby Va Bien (goes to I cup!!) is currently duking it out with the fabulous Red Carpet Strapless from Wacoal to see who is the favorite going into the fall.

4. Deep Plunge

A full coverage T-shirt bra is certainly the most popular style but there are wardrobe situations which call for less cup but no less support. Va Bien makes a beautiful molded option, and in the A-D cup range Felina makes a highly convertible push-up but the most desirable plunge in all the good sizes is the Chantelle Sexy C-Chic Lace Plunge (goes to I cup! which is a lovely miracle at certain level of breast tissue.)

5. Sports

Depending on your level of activity, there are several different types of sports bras you may consider. If you are doing yoga or pilates, you generally prefer a bra with as few adjustments as possible. Back closures and strap shorteners are extremely uncomfortable pressed against the floor or in certain positions.

Easy winner in this category has been Blue Canoe Organic Cotton (S-XL, PlusCup available) for years , but the new Cool Definition from Wacoal is certainly encroaching on that territory!

If you are running or horseback riding, for example, you want to be held still. A sports bra can do that two ways - it can compress the heck out of your chest or it can separate each breast and lock it in place using lots of structure.

This category is simply too particular to pick a clear crowdpleaser. While we certainly consider the high impact Anita (to H cup) a sure bet for a breathable and supportive athletic bra, there are so many offerings from Moving Comfort as well as the super heavy duty Panache Sports bra which boasts the greatest amount of structure AND a convertible-to-racer back, as well as all the good proportions of band/cup sizes which are usually impossible to find. Starts at at 30 band!

6. Comfort

What more is there to be said than everything in my previous post on this subject? Cannot deny the popularity of the Coobie bra, which is not only one of the most comfortable pieces of foundationwear to put on your body but also works perfectly with the sheer and flowing top styles trending right now.

7. Lacy - Feminine - Pretty

There is nothing quite like the pleasure of acquiring a perfectly fit, flattering and ultimately feminine piece of lingerie. A favorite on the scene is the Ciao Bella from b.tempt'd - goes to a DDD cup.

Consult your wardrobe - and then I'll see you soon!

Jaye

Asst Manager

This Post is Not About Bras

Wacoal's Shape Panties by body type - brilliant!

Comfortable panties are the holy grail of lingerie. Unlike bras which are specifically sized and categorized, panties run by general sizing of S/M/L/XL and style can be a mysterious and inexplicable quality . . until now.

We have already raved about our favorite Hanky Panky thongs, and while we have a few alternatives within that particular style which aren't buttery soft lace, this post pertains to fuller coverage panties. 

Most women think of a bikini style underwear for a 'typical' pair - and for the more sensitive among us the brand Cotn offers a lace top bikini style made of - yep, you got it - cotton!

I believe this is a popular variation of the bikini style because it offers incredible coverage - a much fuller cut than most bikini panties - as well as a soft and attractive light lace band at the top.

The 95% Pima Cotton content is just icing on the cake.

B.tempt'd by Wacoal goes in a different direction for another equally as popular bikini style - this one is super stretchy, soft and is a one size item, boasting a 24% Spandex content.

This current fashion color (cerulean blue) matches the fabulous racer-back camisole (also a S-XL one size item) as well as the wonderful b'wow convertible pushup bra.

B.tempt'd is all about fun, comfortable and flattering style and the bikini is no exception. It is more of a low rise panty which is perfect for the season at hand.

For the most amount of figure flattering shape, and line-free silhouettes, the recommended style is our bestseller - the hipster (also sometimes referred to as a boyshort.) A hipster's  rise is not any higher than a bikini, however, the leg is cut much lower. This results in the most amount of rear coverage and a distinct lack of wedgies and pantylines.

Note the full coverage

Easy under anything

B.tempt'd again does a matching set with attractive lace in a flattering hipster cut. This is available in both black and white and is made of 95% cotton.
Fashion colors occasionally surface - this season's is navy blue for the panties only.


The award for best seams, in my opinion, would have to go to the Warner's Hipster for flat and wide leg seams which camouflage lines. In their words 'No Wedgies, No Worries" - love it!

Note the "No Wedgies No Worries" sticker!

Such smooth lines

Levusha not only rocks the hipster in a modern way, but also takes it up several notches with their higher-waisted lace boyshort. Very pretty and very controlling - everything a girl wants and everything she needs.

Smooth and Lightweight

Modern Hipster

Flat Lace with Control

Higher Waist, Longer Legs

Speaking of control, it was Wacoal's body-type-specific shapewear which made me start to truly appreciate the differences between underwear styles. That being said, the Full Brief by Wacoal offers the perfect combination of control and comfort and is greatly in demand regardless of body type. A comfort band tops off the soft yet strong composition augmented by sculpted lines for an improved look on the posterior.

The last type of panty I would like to mention is a favorite for our most organized and fashion conscious customer - a matching panty for a special bra!  Chantelle, in particular, offers the most scrumptious matches for their truly excellent bras.

Once you've been bra fit by our experts, do not forget about the rest of your foundation.

See you soon!

Jaye
Assistant Manager

Cotton Bras - Why We Want Breathable Fabrics For Summer

Naturana Soft Cotton Bra - fastens in the back

Blue Canoe Organic Cotton Bra

Heat waves like we have been experiencing are made especially unbearable by the high humidity, and feeling sweaty and sticky in your clothes is so uncomfortable.

The usual response to such conditions is a wire free, cotton bra such as Blue Canoe's Jen's Bra or Naturana's Soft Cup Bra. However recent technological advancements have produced certain performance fabrics with desirable tendencies.

Cotton is a wonderful, natural and breathable material but it is also quite hygroscopic - loves water. It wants to absorb your sweat but is not quick to let go of that moisture. Performance fabric, as is found in athletic wear, uses capillary action and water repulsion to pull the moisture from your skin and present it for evaporation, keeping you as dry as possible.

Medium Impact with extra shape

Attractively High Impact!

Anita by Rosa Faia, one of our best selling brands, produces two superior athletic bras - the High Impact with controlling seams and Medium Impact with a smooth, compressive cup. Both boast wicking power as well as being pleasantly wire free, and are often purchased for regular, not just sports, use during the summer for women wanting breathable, supportive comfort. Sizes run a healthy range especially in the High Impact version: 32B-42H.

Anita also offers an extremely comfortable traditional bra with an Oeko-tek certification. In the summer I've noticed more women preferring the wire free version which is available to an F cup. Other vendors such as Wacoal and Chantelle have put out 'spacer cup' bras - the semi-molded structure is formed by two extra light layers held apart by filaments with a honeycomb-like style of engineering. This allows air to move freely through the cups and contributes to an overall airy feel in a variety of hard to find sizes.

Chantelle Spacer - available to G cup!

Cool Definition Front View

Cool Definition Back View

Beyond the traditional bra, I have recently blogged about the Cool Definition bra; a racer-back style which falls into our "comfort bra" category - it is also made of a nano-technology material utilizing recycled coffee grounds that cools your skin as you wear it!

With all the innovative products out there - a new addition to our repertoire this year are Wick Ems. This natural bamboo bra liner is a superb moisture management system which helps to reduce skin irritation and rashes. A great way to stick with your favorite bra even in this 90+ degree heat.

Bra Liners - New Addition!

Instead of sweltering this next week - come visit us and enjoy our A/C while we solve your under-wardrobe problems.

See you soon!

Jaye
Assistant Manager


PS - All the panties pictured are ALSO moisture-managing, sweat wicking and designed for ultimate comfort in the heat - either from the Knock Off! line or by Moving Comfort. We have solutions for every kind of weather!

Bras of Summer - Racerback & Convertible

Summer always poses a challenge to those of us trying to keep our bra straps under wraps.

Wide Cross

Ballet Back

Close Cross

For every tank top, cut away neckline, and other wardrobe conundrum - there is an equal and complimentary foundation garment.  In some cases, just one satisfies many needs. Such is the case of Pure by Chantelle - this bra not only forms and shapes perfectly to the breast due to its memory foam construction but ALSO converts four different way including halter style [not pictured.]

Regular Back

There are several styles across many designers that convert, which is considered more versatile than a static racerback. That being said, many women prefer a racerback, Y back, T back or ballet back styled bra and the Full Bloom by b'tempt'd is a particularly pretty version which comes in sizes 30B - 36DDD.

Sometimes we already have a bra we love - however the straps peek out under a new favorite top, and in that case there are gadgets which can either pull your straps to a racerback (left) or simply pull them together slightly (right.)

Whatever your outerwear needs - we have underwear to cover you.

See you soon!

Jaye
Assistant Manager

Here comes the bride - and her bridesmaids!

A foundation garment, such as a bra, bustier or shapewear is designed to alter your silhouette. (In a good way!) This can often come as an unfortunate surprise when, after finding the *perfect* gown, you look for a foundation garment ...

When I was a bridesmaid last summer for one of my dearest friends, it was such a wonderful feeling once she had picked out her dress - because she was done! I had fit her for a perfect strapless bra that we used to go pick out the perfect dress and after that, she was home free.

I strongly encourage brides to consider their foundation garments first, and use them to try on the gown of their dreams. This sequence of events ensures no sudden issues after the dress is decided upon, and gives a realistic view of the style of dress that will make you look and feel stunning. But if not before (as Jo points out to me sometimes you don't know until you see the dress) as soon as you've selected your gown - and long before your first fitting - come see us!

While assistance is merely a google search away when you're looking for advice on the style of dress to choose for your big, and hugely photographed, day - some brides have been considering the undergarments an afterthought. I beseech all the lovely brides of 2013 to think about the components going into the look.

Especially if you want an open or low cut back, my advice is to absolutely consult with us here at Jo Karen for a comfortable bustier (for strapless) or low-back bra (for halter-style) to make sure you feel effortless in your foundation before you put on your gown. The last thing you want on your wedding video is the constant 'hitch-up' of your bra, or tugging at bits and pieces of uncomfy undies. When all eyes are on you, you need to feel as though everything is working in your favor - and at Jo Karen we literally work from the foundation up to make you feel great and look your best!

And don't forget to keep your attendants in mind when choosing bridesmaid dresses. If everyone needs an updated foundation - consider throwing a lingerie party! Jo Karen associates are more than pleased to advise the entire wedding party on their undergarments, or provide the bride with an assortment of negligees, chemises, lace hankies and more.

See you soon,
Jaye
Assistant Manager

Beautiful Handmade White Cotton Nightgowns, and for a good cause

The fabric I hear referenced in longing most frequently is cotton. Despite the plethora of performance blends to help with various issues including night sweats and hot flashes, there is forever a place in our hearts for the original breathable textile.

A crisp, white cotton nightgown is a classic piece and our selection comes with the added bonus of charitable giving. Each nightgown or robe is hand-embroidered with exquisite feminine detailing on pure white cotton print. Not only is each garment beautiful, comfortable and effortless but the proceeds go to an excellent nonprofit corporation founded in 1988 in the Philippines.

Marie de la Soudiere, a French designer, founded the Thread of Hope for Economic Advancement (or THEA) with the objective of improving the situation of disadvantaged women in Manila. Thea provides skills training, and also has worked to set up health care, first aid, housing and other necessary programs for these impoverished working mothers.

Thea has grown and prospered and currently grants scholarships for education and vocational training, as well as opening two nursery schools and a small community library in Imus, Cavite. The hard work that makes each Thea nightgown and robe so beautifully elegant gives the workers not only a way to make a living, but also hope for an improvement in their lives, and for future generations.

I personally love receiving a shipment from Thea, and liberating the softest, lightest, most romantic gowns from the box. As I give them a quick steam to release the packing wrinkles, a light yet mouthwatering scent of some sort of delicious incense wafts briefly through the store. Thea nightgowns, robes, and even pajamas, are a product I am proud to sell, not only for the perfection of each piece but also for the hope it represents.

Mother's Day is May 12th, for the record. ;)

See you soon!

Jaye
Assistant Manager