The Bra(g) ~ The Traveling Bra Bag

How many times have you gone on a trip and packed bras that looked like the bra to the left...

...and when you unpacked you discovered that your bra looked like the bra below?


Jane Webb, Inventor of the
Bra(g), had the same problem. An avid traveler, she discovered that her biggest assets turned into liabilities after travel. It drove to her see if other women dealt with the same problem. After doing research in the market place, she discovered that most bras being sold in stores and in catalogs have some form of soft cup. There was indeed a need!

Out of necessity, thus, Bra(g) was born.

The Bra(g) (image left) is a bra bag. It's comprised of a hard shell travel case that will hold up to six bras for women with cup sizes A-C. They also recently released The Buxom Bra(g) that will hold bras up to size G.

If you want to salvage your bras while traveling and maintain the integrity of your assets, try out a Bra(g). With you confident and your mind at ease about your appearance, you'll have more time to enjoy your trip and simply Celebrate your Inner Eve!

The Bra(g)
http://www.bra-g.com/
Travel in style...arrive in form

Bloomers Missed at Oscars

Lingerie, Older Ladies, and Foreign Language Films...Oh my!


Nominated for the Swiss Film Prize, Die Herbstzeitlosen (Late Bloomers) was one film that people were saying should have been included at the Oscars yesterday. The Federal Cultural Office in Switzerland submitted Late Bloomers in the Best Foreign Language Film catagory due to its "universal themes and the high quality of its screenplay, directing, and casting."

You must be asking, "What does this Swiss film and the Oscars have to do with lingerie?"

Late Bloomers (c)enters around four older ladies from the Emmental region. When four older women decide to turn the local corner shop into a chic lingerie store, the whole community is thrown into disarray.

I've read that Late Bloomers is in the vein of Calendar Girls, which I thought was a feel-good movie that proves we're all young at heart. Who wants to go quietly into that good night? Why not be sassy, have a little fun and celebrate your inner Eve--at any age. That's exactly what these women in Late Bloomers do, so I've been told. And from the looks of the photo it seems they're trying to break people of granny panties also...I like the movie already!

According to Swiss Info, ...(t)he film's popularity both in Switzerland and abroad, the enthusiastic reviews and the fact that it had the support of distributor Buena Vista International had convinced the office's group of experts of Late Bloomers' Oscar potential.

Around 600,000 people have seen the film in Switzerland, making it one of the most popular productions of the last 25 years and the second-most popular Swiss film ever...

..."This film is about how life isn't finished at 50 or 60, that you can still have dreams and reach your goals at a mature age, and this touched the audience, especially older people and women," said Jungen, who is also a film scholar at Zurich University.

Click on Swiss Info to read the entire article.

Icing on the Cake: Lingerie Accessories ~ Part 3: Strappys

I originally was going to review Strappys of Southern California in my Heaven to Hell: Lingerie Goody Reviews section, but after I tried them out I thought they deserved more than a review. They're in Icing on the Cake because they should be thought of as an essential fashion and lingerie accessory.

The concept behind Stappys is genius. Instead of showing your hideiously tacky bra straps while in public, you switch them out for fashionable straps. Lets be honest, have you ever really felt comfortable, confident, or sexy in knowing that your bra strap was showing? Isn't that why those clear, uncomfortable plastic bra straps were invented? Truth be told, I always flinch a little bit when I have to wear the plastic or see other people doing it.

I tried out the Black Chanel Chain Bra Straps (below right) and was so pleased with them that I tore through my closet, looking for additional clothes to wear with them. Not only were the Chanel straps chic, instantly dressing up my outfit for the day, but also other people liked them. My friend commented that, "They look like jewelry."

I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that they transitioned easy to evening. During the day, I wore a simple black fitted tank and jeans. My look completely transformed for dinner and the movies without having to change my outfit when I added a wrap, some sparkling earrings, and strappy shoes. Thus my evening out attire was complete.

In regards to comfort, the bra straps were great and didn't dig into my shoulders. Keep in mind, I don't have large breasts, therefore, I don't know what it would feel like for someone with a C cup or larger. I welcome comments from C cup plus lingeristas who've tried Strappys and would love to hear about their experiences.

In any case, Strappys is definitely onto something. I hope these catch on for good. They will if I have anything to say about them. Strappys is definitely an accessory that I'll give my friends and family as gifts for birthdays, bridal showers, holidays, and stocking stuffers!

...Not to mention, I'd add a few more to my collection.

Strappys comes in several styles. Some are more glitzy, perfect for evenings out, day-to-evening (like my favorite Chanel inspired pair) and casual.

Check out Strappys of Southern California online and Celebrate Your Inner Eve, two bra straps at a time!

Strappys of Southern California

http://www.strappys.com/

What is a Lingerista?

The word "lingerista" was coined by my husband when he laughingly said it, commenting on my itsy-bitsy obsession over lingerie. As a surprising result to him, I welcomed the word and now use it frequently. To us, lingerie is to Lingerista as fashion is to Fashionista. If we go on that assumption, then by using Merriam-Webster's Dictionary definition of "fashionista," a lingerista is "a designer, promoter, or follower of the latest" lingerie. A true lingerista is more than that!

In a genuine sense of the word, she is someone who embraces lingerie and the experience of wearing it. She slips on what makes her comfortable and self-assured, picking and choosing styles to make them her own. Most of all, she knows that her unique personality and body type greatly affect what lingerie she adorns, and she chooses her lingerie accordingly.

As a result, a lingerista has an added air of confidence, aided by the supple silk and satin close to her skin. It doesn't matter if the intention to wear the undergarments is for another person or herself. What is most important is that she knows and is aware of how it makes her feel.

Anyone can be a lingerista. As mentioned above, the prerequisite is that she must appreciate and enjoy wearing lingerie. The only exception is a granny panty lover. She may have a mood enhancing experience with her potato sack panties, but the fit and style absolve her from being one. Hence, it’s my personal mission to rid the world of granny panties wearers and convert them to praisers of priceless panties.

As my mother imparted on me, luxurious lingerie celebrates our womanhood. Being a lingerista does just that. Embrace the lingerista in you and always "Celebrate Your Inner Eve!"

Happy Valentine's Day

In a tribute to Valentine's Day, I'm posting The History of Valentine's Day as it was written by The History Channel--just so you can see what all the romance, hoopla, and gift giving is all about. The only request that I have for my dear readers is that you find yourselves some priceless panties for this romantic day. It can be a pair that inspires you, you want to share with another, alters your mood or is simply for you. In any case, start your day off right with lingerie that makes you feel good about yourself! You'll be happy that you did!

And now, onto the main attraction...

The History of Valentine's Day

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day -- and its patron saint -- is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men -- his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.

According to one legend, Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl -- who may have been his jailor's daughter -- who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories certainly emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and, most importantly, romantic figure. It's no surprise that by the Middle Ages, Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.

While some believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine's death or burial -- which probably occurred around 270 A.D -- others claim that the Christian church may have decided to celebrate Valentine's feast day in the middle of February in an effort to 'christianize' celebrations of the pagan Lupercalia festival. In ancient Rome, February was the official beginning of spring and was considered a time for purification. Houses were ritually cleansed by sweeping them out and then sprinkling salt and a type of wheat called spelt throughout their interiors. Lupercalia, which began at the ides of February, February 15, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus...

...The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. The greeting, which was written in 1415, is part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois...

...In Great Britain, Valentine's Day began to be popularly celebrated around the seventeenth century. By the middle of the eighteenth century, it was common for friends and lovers in all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes...

For the full article and more information on romance and Valentine's Day, click on The History Channel.

Especially on a day like Valentine's, remember to Celebrate Your Inner Eve!

Boutique of the Month: February ~ Faire Frou Frou

In French "Faire Frou Frou means "to show off"...

...and that's exactly what you'll do if you wear some of their lingerie!

In honor of Valentine's Day, I had to bring you the most romantic and beautiful lingerie store that I could find. That's just what I've done. Faire Frou Frou is a darling gem located in Studio City on Ventura Boulevard.

On the insanely windy day that I stopped by, it was a relief to go into Faire Frou Frou for several reasons. For starters, despite my tousled appearance, I was greeted by Alison (one of the owners), who is a sweet, savvy lingerista. Alison, like the store, is also a gem. Secondly, she and Gail (her mother and co-owner) adorned the store in French decor, including chandeliers, gilded mirrors, jewelry, fans, and other lingerie accessories. It's such a visually enticing place to be, and I haven't even mentioned the lingerie yet. Finally, the lingerie...one word...exquisite.

Customer Service: Alison was gracious with her time, talking with me about lingerie and finding styles that would be best fit my body type. Since I can be obsessive when it comes to lingerie, it was a joy talking with her about the little details and craftsmanship that make each piece special. I can't wait to go back!

Store: The store is a visual masterpiece. But not in a stuffy way. It's charming and spaciously laid out for a smaller store, displaying tempting lingerie goodies throughout. It's merchandised well and easy to shop.

Website: Here is another treat. To get a sample of Faire Frou Frou, go on the website. It gives you a strong sense of the store and lists all of the lines that they carry. They also have a Faire Frou Frou Blog which is updated regularly and full of great insider tips.

Brands: They carry high-end brands ranging in price and specializing in European styles that I adore. They also carry brands that are hard to find in the U.S. Some of the brands found at Faire Frou Frou are...

• Damaris


• Mimi Holliday


• Undrest


• Vera Wang Intimates


• I.D. Sarrieri

Services: Aside from the stellar customer service and high quality lingerie, services provided in boutiques are equally important. It makes boutiques stand alone in comparison to big stores or shopping malls. Faire Frou Frou is no exception. The services they offer are as follows...

• Online Shopping
  
• In-store Bridal Registry


• Personal Lingerie Shopper


• Custom Gift Wrapping


• Next Day and Delivery Service in the LA Area


• Bra Measurements and Fitting

Overall: This boutique is one Valentine treat that you don't want to miss. If you can make it into Faire Frou Frou before the holiday, then do so. You won't be disappointed. If you can't make it there, then check out their website. They have many stunning new items, and to make room they also have past season lingerie on sale for 50% off.

They sell to celebrities, stylists and even us every day people. There is a good balance of having an upscale store complemented by a warm and inviting staff. This is one place that will be starred on my date book and will be visited many more times in the years to come!

Stop by Faire Frou Frou and "show off" Your Inner Eve!

Faire Frou Frou
Address: 13017A Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, California 91604
Phone Number: 818-783-4970
Website: www.fairefroufrou.com
Blog: http://www.froufroufashionista.blogspot.com/

Poll Results: Your Favorite Lingerie Fabric is...

Microfiber

In a last minute vote given to Eve's Apples before the polls closed, microfiber nudged out of a deadlock with Satin.

The final results are as follows:

* Microfiber ~ 31%

* Satin ~ 25%

* Silk ~ 19%

* Lace ~ 19%

* Cotton ~ 6%

What makes microfiber so special?

Microfiber is an extremely soft, shape-retaining, durable material. According to Wikipedia, it's an 80/20 blend of polyester and polymide and "can hold up to seven times its weight in water." What makes this material extra special is due to the fiber's wedge shaped filaments (see image above right). These "filaments follow surfaces, lift up dirt, and then trap the particles inside the fibers." That is what creates its high absorbency and makes this material a favorite with athletes.

How do you get rid of the dirt and oil that has been trapped? Simply wash it in warm water. The warm water opens up the fibers and releases the dirt. How's that for comfortable, fashionable, and durable lingerie?

Click on Wikipedia for more information on microfiber.

Beckham in Briefs

Ooh La La!

I couldn't miss an opportunity to share with you the new David Beckham ad campaign! Click on Emporio Armani to see Beck's knickers slide show.

All I can say is, "Enjoy."

The Virtue of Giving Lingerie

For me, receiving lingerie as a present first started in college when my insanely chic mom gave me two lace teddies, instead of the usual flannel pajamas, for Valentine's Day. Traditionally, people think of giving lingerie when in a romantic relationship. It doesn't have to only be that way. Whether you're endowing lingerie to a partner, friend, or family member, each is perfectly acceptable. After all, lingerie is the perfect personal gift to give someone that you know well.

Consequently, I've been giving and receiving lingerie as gifts for years. Friends and family still remind me about the great little lingerie sets I bought them years ago. Personally, I have a couple pieces that I'll hang onto and look at again when I'm 80--just to put a smile on my face.

The act of giving lingerie can be racy, sassy, or just plain cheeky. In any case, it's a gift that says, "I want you to have fun, be confident and enjoy yourself." The outcomes and mood enhancing possibilities are endless with lingerie.

The Virtues of Giving Lingerie:

1. It's personal
2. It's romantic
3. It can be elegant and classy
4. It's thoughtful. The giver usually has to know the recipient fairly well in order to purchase it
5. More expensive than chocolate, same price as roses and less expensive than diamonds
6. It's good karma. Whatever goes around, comes around
7. Chances are that there's a special place in Heaven for people who save loved ones from a granny panty induced comatose
8. You could be the instigator of a love affair that she will have with lingerie and priceless panties the rest of her life
9. You're helping her celebrate her inner Eve
10. It's the gift that keeps on giving

Stella McCartney Debuts Lingerie

Valentines Arrives Early!

Normally, I don't highlight designers on my blog, but something momentous and exciting has recently been announced. And I had to tell you first. Stella McCartney is debuting her first lingerie collection and it's simply gorgeous!

Many thanks to The Lingerie Post for letting us know about McCartney's release. In the post, "McCartney talks about her inspiration, which started at an early age:

'I was obsessed with French slips, lace inlays and handwork. When I think about lingerie, I tend to think of really handmade precious pieces. … The intimacy that a woman has with her lingerie is quite inspiring.'

The collection will include feminine bras, briefs, bodysuits, and chemises with prices ranging from $45 to $325....Apparently McCartney is following the same aesthetic as her outerwear – frilly, coquettish, and super sweet!"

Click on The Lingerie Post for the full article.

The only stores, I know of, that are carrying Stella’s line are Faire Frou Frou in Studio City, our February Boutique of the Month, and Neiman Marcus. Pop by one of the stores or check online for Stella's new lingerie. You'll be happy that you did!