You’ve stocked up on lacy bras and other pretty underthings, but when was the last time you bought a corset? How about a bralette? You may think they sound like something straight out of an old-time movie, but these favorites from yesteryear are hitting the racks today...along with silky, sexy robes and 80's inspired bodysuits, all with a modern day twist! From day to night, under your clothes, or even as clothes. Amanda Horan Kennedy, “Glamour Shrink" and CEO of Sassybax Shapewear, introduces you to what’s beyond the bra.
The Bustier: Every vixen needs a bustier! This garment is more appropriate as evening attire, so wear one with jeans for a cocktail or evening look. If it's a pared down version (and you're on the daring side!), you may be able to get away with wearing it underneath a buttoned blazer. I wore a bustier with a silk tap pant to the Playboy Mansion for a "Lingerie" Party! While all the other girls were practically naked or actually naked (!), guess who had more male attention? There really is something to be said for leaving a little to the imagination.
Affinitas Intimates Julia Bustier in Hot Pink, $50
Corset: Picture Gone With The Wind. When Scarlett O'Hara demanded that her corset laces be pulled tighter, she meant it! Off she went to meet Rhett Butler with her 18" waist and smelling salts, lest she pass out from the organ squishing garment! Of course, that was then and this is now. The modern day corset is not brutally binding, but it will assist your waist in looking smaller...even if it doesn't measure 18"!
Agent Provocateur Classic Corset, $370
The Bodysuit: In the 80's, there was not one well-dressed woman that didn't own a bodysuit! We lived in them because they stayed tucked in and looked sexy. I'm so happy they're back! The one below from BRULEE transitions into the perfect camisole with jeans and a black leather jacket. Why get out of your lingerie? Ever.
BRULEE Boudoir Collection Bodysuit in Pewter/Black, $189
Shapewear As Lingerie: The sassiest shapewear doesn't look like Bridget Jones' magic knickers any more. Thanks to lines like the Sassybax Pretty Collection, you can have your cake and eat it too. Why keep Hugh Grant waiting? Invite him in.
SassyBax Pretty Collection Slip, $118
The Bralette: A bralette is essential to every lingerie drawer. It is a less structured version of a bra - no underwire. What a comfy option with a sumptuous set of silk pajamas, while sipping your morning tea, or enjoying champagne with your PJ clad guy. If you have a smaller bust, and aren't seeking extra support, let a pretty bralette peek out of your blouse during the day.
Affinitas Intimates Ingrid Triangle Bra in Pink, $26
The Teddy: This teddy is not for little girls! Today's modern version is a fantastic option for (the daring) to wear in lieu of a hot mini dress. Or, play it a bit safer and pair with a skirt and jacket.
BRULEE Boudoir Collection Teddy in Plum/Black, $140
The Chemise: The chemise is known to French women as the perfect seduction piece. What took American women so long to discover this wonderful way to say je vous aime?
Affinitas Intimates Jasmin Chemise in Silver, $40
The Robe: Leave the thick, terry cloth robe for the spa. Don a silk robe and show off your curves over dinner. Let it accidentally fall open as you carve the roast or open the wine. Trust me, he won’t mind dinner at home.
BRULEE Vamp Collection Robe in Black w/Cream, $230
Amanda Horan Kennedy's background in the fashion world started at Hallmark Cards in Kansas City. She was 14 years old and was asked to model for a line of their cards. Fashion modeling came next at 16, followed by being crowned Miss Dallas and Miss Texas USA and becoming an actress. She starred in such TV shows as Cheers, Remington Steele, Hart to Hart, TJ Hooker, Dallas, as well as 200 national commercials.
Amanda is also a therapist, with a BA in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. At GlamourShrink.com, her goal is to help women become the confident, glamorous creatures she believes they can be. She has also created Sassybax Shapewear as a way of helping women look and feel more confident and comfortable in the fashions they love.
