A la Mode to donate gently used bras to Light House

By ELISHA SAUERS Staff Writer

Published January 16, 2009

An Annapolis retailer has the breast intentions.

As the economy continues to sag, A la Mode Lingerie, located at 32 West St., will help the less-fortunate in its own fashion – with bras.

During this month, A la Mode employees will accept secondhand bras from customers, and the store will then donate the bras to the Light House shelter for the homeless.

But not the dry-rotted, been-at-the-bottom-of-the-hamper-since-1989 bras. Sarah Platt, a marketing associate for the family owned business, said these donations should be of the nonperishable sort.

“We won’t be giving out any ratty-looking bras,” Ms. Platt said.

As incentive for customers to bring in their worn wares, A la Mode will give donors $5 off their next bra purchase. Then the store’s staff will make a special visit to the shelter to professionally fit the women for their correct bra sizes.

In doing so, Light House clients will be matched with bras of their measurements, either from the collection of donations or from the store’s rack. With 28- to 44-inch bands and AA- to K-sized cups, A la Mode’s inventory can fit a wide range of figures, Ms. Platt said.

“We think everybody will get something,” she said, adding that the store has some styles left over from last season to donate.

This is the fourth year the business has attempted the bra drive, which was an idea that originated as the owners realized many women are stowing ill-fitting bras in their dresser drawers.

To promote proper bra-fitting, the store began asking customers in 2005 to lift their spirits and separate themselves from the wrong bras. The company prides itself on bra-fitting, stating on its Web site that, “Our entire sales staff is professionally certified bra fitters.”

Marilyn Baker, development director for the Light House, said currently the shelter is housing about a dozen adult women. Many of the clients who seek help at the shelter are overweight, she said, and may require custom sizes that could otherwise be relatively expensive for them.

“It is of concern to have proper undergarments for job interviews and for health and comfort,” Ms. Baker said.

A la Mode staff said Jan. 31 is the last day to get bra donations in under the wire.

Dori Csengeri necklace at Diva

This winter it’s all about jewelry that makes a statement.  This amazing piece can be found at Diva and will enhance any look.

Dress by Velvet at Paradigm

Opulence and embellishment is all the rage for Winter 2009.  This jewel rimmed dress by Velvet is perfect for any holiday party or can be paired with tights, heels and a shrunken blazer for a office appropriate look.  You can find this and other great pieces at Paradigm.

I absolutley love these two shops and I always find something amazing when I shop there.  Check them out for yourself and sail into 2009 looking hip and fabulous!

                       Sarah Platt 

Get the Look Locally

December Issue

If you’re tired of the mall shops that provide those every day garments you see everyone wearing, come downtown and shop with the Fashionistas! The high fashion boutiques of downtown Annapolis are in a league of their own; providing women with more unique wardrobe choices, quality you can see and feel and, best of all, clothing that will last for years to come.  à la mode, means “in the fashion,” so we wanted to give our clients more of it.  We know you understand the importance of quality, proper fit, and style; after all you shop with us, so we wanted to tell you of other places to go for the best garments to layer over your foundation pieces.  Each month we will feature the latest looks and tell you where those kind of pieces can be found.  Support your local small businesses and look fabulous at the same time!

This Month’s Special Feature

Shagbags

Located at: 65 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401

We love this product!  What a better time than the holidays to grab a shagbag.  Save the planet by using these machine washable, tear and weather proof shopping bags to carry your groceries and gifts.  A Shagbag encourages reuse with its unique lightweight fabric, which allows it to be crunched and or folded. It can be stowed for easy accessibility in a pocket, purse, gym bag, or it’s very own matching pouch, which doubles as the bags’ packaging to conserve waste.  To learn more, visit their website at www.shopshagbags.com or visit them at their location on Maryland Ave.

Rule #1

Pay attention to the kind of lingerie (bras, panties, sleepwear) she wears.  When she’s not home, go through her lingerie drawer and see what styles she owns.  Are her bras mostly nude and black, lace or no lace?  Does she prefer thongs, boyshorts, or briefs?  What does she usually sleep in or wear around the house at night?  Knowing her style will help you buy a gift you know she’ll feel comfortable in and wear.

Rule #2

Make sure you know her size.  Look in her lingerie drawer and jot down her bra and panty size.  If she’s bought from a la mode then we will most likely have her information in the system.  We also track what she has bought before, that way you do not make the mistake of buying the same thing.  Remember, going home with the correct size is very important in ensuring her happiness with you. 

Rule #3

This gift is for her; not you!  Although you may want to see her in a sheer, lacy teddy, does not mean she  wants to wear it.  Buying her something that she feels good in will show that you care about her and that you put a lot of thought into what would make her feel great.  If you feel secure that your lady is adventurous as you in the bedroom than, by all means, include some fun toys, oils and body paints into the mix.  The website, www.delicioustoppings.com has a great selection.  The best combo to try, which can add more fun to the gift and in the bedroom, is a sexy, but classy, bra and panty set with a karma sutra massage oil set.  Note: Aubade and Simone Perele are two very high-quality and very sexy lingerie brands.  Go to www.alamodelingerie.com to view products. 

Quick Reference Points to Ensure She Loves Her Gift

1. Know her size and the styles and colors she wears most

2. Do not buy anything that says “control top,” “Tummy Minimizing,” or any other kind of product that implies she needs to “suck it in.”

3. Be careful buying products that are cleavage enhancing, because some women may get offended.

Follow these rules and your lady is going to want to wear that lingerie as much as you want her to.  Let the ladies of a la mode help you pick out that special gift.  They will make the shopping experience easy and painless.  The boutique also provides complimentary gift wrap and greeting cards.  It’s one step shopping…what could be better!

Can’t seem to find a bra that fits? Not sure what style works best for you? Current bra causing you discomfort and pain? It’s time for some expert advice.

Our own team of Certified Bra Fitters will be joined once more by Eveden’s National Bra Fit Expert Frederica Zappe. Freddi is a fabulous fitter with extensive knowledge of all things bra. You can read more about Freddi in this candid interview with LoveToKnow.com.

We’ll also have an assortment of bra-sized swimwear from Freya and Fantasie brands in a range of sizes from D-HH. You can even get a sneak peek at next season’s styles before they hit the shelves. Get a personal bra fitting and check out stylish and supportive swimwear options.

Please call ahead to reserve your appointment: 410.280.9771

Undoubtedly, large or heavy breasts can cause discomfort and even physical pain. It is often back, neck and shoulder pain that cause women to seek this major procedure. But how many of these surgeries could be prevented if women were given a proper bra fitting before they go under the knife?

A London hospital did a study where they gave patients seeking reductions surgeries a bra fitting before their procedure with shocking results; 100% of the women were wearing the wrong size bra! Read the full BBC News article here.

Finding a good bra can be especially difficult for American women due to a lack of information and a lack of available sizes. But there are more and more fit boutiques popping up across the nation. I’m sure many women will ultimately choose to complete the process for other reasons but a good bra fitting prior to surgery could help a woman understand that she really does have alternatives.

The term Minimizer Bra usually refers to a bra that is designed to absorb or mask the outward appearance of the bustline up to one cup size.  The general design of a minimizer restricts the forward projection of the breasts and redistributes the tissue to the sides of each cup (out into the underarm area and down into bottom of the cup), making the outward appearance less “busty”. 

Most Minimizer Bras are full-coverage with or without underwire. Those with wire often use a more open wire shape that can cause size confusion when you try other types of bras (your bra size in a Minimizer is often labelled one or more cup sizes smaller than your bra size in traditional bras…this does not mean your breasts actually got any smaller).   The Minimizer Bra has become a very popular item in recent years (not only for the vanity sizing) but because they are often the only bras in major stores that “fit”. The Minimizer bra often has a much greater cup capacity than traditional bras of the same size so when a women tries it on she finally feels that the bra really fits without having to adress the issue of limited size options (there is life beyond a double d, way way way beyond!).

The Perfect Minimizer is a highly sought after item for many women who wish to mask a well-defined bustline. A Minimizer can be useful in getting a particular outfit or item to fit just a little better (especially if your bust proportion is different than the that of the garment..most common complaint is the essential white button up blouse).  The idea of the minimizer is very appealing to many women who find their breast size inconvenient.

BUT, the Minimizer Bra does have some serious side effects. When the breast tissue is redistributed into the edges of the cups it blends into the bulk of the torso often times making the chest seem wider and broader, the bust seem lower and the waist less-defined. This spreading effect does not work with some women’s body frame or breast shape and they might find that the underwire digs in under the arm or that the breast tissue (which is naturally more projected) pushes the cup away from the body while leaving gaps around the arms and shoulders.

The Minimizer Bra may work for women whose breast naturally tend to be wide rather than deep or whose ribcage also tends to be wide; women who want moderate support and full coverage.  Women with petite frames or narrow ribcages may be overwhelmed by the minimizer bra. Women who want maximum support with lift and shape or lower coverage also may not be a good match for the Minimizer Bra. Understanding the way your body shape relates to different bra styles is the key. There are lots of great traditional bras that can have an equal or greater result from no-wire bralettes to multi-part balcony bras.

The Minimizer Bra will not work for everyone and before blaming those double chocolate chip cookies ask youself, “Does This Bra Make Me Look Fat?”

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We all know what can happen when a cool breeze whips through a light-weight top or we enter an air-conditioned room.  But when the weather is warm you want to be able to wear the blouses and bra of your choosing.  There are several easy solutions for every occasion.

The Tshirt Bra

How It Works: Tshirt Bras usually have foam cups that offer a layer of insulation and concealment. 

Pros: It is one garment and probably part of your normal dressing routine already. There are lots of styles for different figures and outfits. Non-Adhesive.

Cons: It still might not be enough to completely conceal on all occasions.  It might not be your preferred bra style or it might not work with the particular top you have in mind (halter tops, racerback, strapless, etc).

 The Seamed Bra

How It Works: A well-placed seam can smooth over the nipple area while giving great support to the entire breast.

Pros: It is one garment and probably part of your normal dressing routine.  It can be lighter and more breathable than some tshirt bras.  Most styles also give support and shape without any padding at all.

Cons: It still might not be enough to completely conceal on all occasions.  It might not be your preferred bra style or it might not work with the particular top you have in mind (halter tops, racerback, strapless, etc).

Disposable Breast Petals

How It Works: These small bandage like flowers usually have a soft, padded non-adhesive center and adhesive petals that gently cover the center of the nipple.

Pros: Quick and easy to use. Inexpensive. Small and inconspicuous; you could keep a few pairs in your purse or in your car for Fashion Emergencies.

Cons: Small and might not cover enough area. Most styles are single use only and have to be replaced often. Adhesive might irritate sensitive skin.

Reusable Silicone Concealors

How It Works: A layer of tapered silicone adheres to the skin over the nipple to leave a very smooth edge with the natural look/feel of silicone.

Pros: Super smooth silicone melts into the skin for a nearly seamless finish. Can be worn with or without a bra. Can be re-used many times with proper care.

Cons: Adhesive will gradually wear off over time and eventually need to be replaced. reusable Silicone Concealors also need to be stored carefully to prevent dirt and dust from collecting. Silicone or Adhesive might irritate sensitive skin.

Non-Adhesive Bra Discs

How It Works:  The Bra Disc is a round, tapered disc of carefully-formulated, non-latex resin that fits between your breast and any bra. The disc features tapered edges and curved slits around a solid center to allow the disc to adjust to your particular shape.

Pros: Water-Proof, Non-Adhesive. Allows you more bra
options and can even be worn with swimwear as many of our customers do. Completely Reusable! Easy to clean and store. The longest lasting nipple concealor option. Featured in Oprah Magazine June 2005.

Cons: Must be used with a bra (or top that presses against the breast like a bra-cami or swimsuit).  Though very carefully designed some people’s skin may still be sensitive to this product as with anything so close to such delicate skin.  

 

Explore More Intimate Solutions & Fashion Fixes at www.alamodelingerie.com

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We asked Rachel author of well-known undewear blog; IntimateGuide.com, to answer just a few of our commonly asked questions about bras and underwear. Rachel gave us some savvy pointers about building a lingerie wardrobe that works and a taste of her intimate knowledge of the changing trends in the intimate industry.

About Rachel and IntimateGuide.com: Rachel and her husband are the authors of “The Intimate Guide”, a blog about what to wear under there. They teach others about which undergarments compliment which fashions, and write helpful articles so that readers may learn answers to questions they were too shy to ask.

LingerieLibrary.com: What three items do you think every woman should have in her lingerie wardrobe?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: Underpants, a bra and pantyhose. Just kidding!

The basic items you need depend a lot on your wardrobe. I have girlfriends who wear a dress about twice a year to a wedding, and I probably wear one 3 days a week.

So I’ll twist your question and say – the 3 bras you should have are:

A t-shirt bra – lined with light foam and no décor to hide invisibly under your tightest tops.

An encapsulating sports bra – that means your breasts are held in separate cups to reduce jiggle while working out. Not the all one piece cotton style sports bra.

A sexy plunge bra to hide under low-cut tops and make you feel luscious when

you are in formal attire.

LingerieLibrary.com: What’s the biggest bra mistake women make?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: WEARING THE WRONG SIZE! Don’t measure yourself. You should be measured when your arms are down, so someone else needs to measure you. Your bra sizes usually changes whenever your body changes – if you lose weight, gain weight, have a baby, stop nursing – and you should get measured again so you know for sure if it is your band size, cup size or both that have changed.

Bras are not made to last forever. In fact most bra elastic will change shape after 6 months of regular wear. When your bras get stretched out, get a new bra.

LingerieLibrary.com: What is the most innovative lingerie item you’ve come across?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: The Cuddl Duds Skinsations with Aloe line.  It is constructed of soft microfiber and releases Aloe Vera to help your skin retain moisture.

LingerieLibrary.com: What is your favorite brand and style of everyday undies?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: I WANT but do not yet OWN the Ed Hardy Geisha Panty! I have some black cotton low rise panties with Tinkerbell on the front from

Walt Disney World that always make me smile. But my favorite pair is seeing my husband in his Ginch Gonch Trunks.

LingerieLibrary.com: What is your favorite brand of fancy panties?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: Freya’s Arabella Luxury Thong

LingerieLibrary.com: What is your favorite lingerie trend to date?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: The unbelievabra – a bra and cami in one to control your figure. Emails that remind you to do self breast exams.

LingerieLibrary.com: What is your least favorite lingerie trend to date?

Rachel of IntimateGuide.com: Bra extenders. If your bra doesn’t fit in the back, then it probably doesn’t fit all over. Get a new bra in the right size and your whole figure will look better.

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What’s the difference between a maternity bra and a nursing bra?

A maternity bra is a bra designed to be sensitive and accommodating to your changing breasts, often with especially soft and stretchy fabric to give you room to grow and not irritate your increasingly sensitive skin. It is important to get a bra that supports because even if your bra size doesn’t change drastically the breast tissue will become fuller and heavier. There are lots of basic bras that can work during the early stages of pregnancy.  Look for something very soft with a generous cup like the Anita Microfiber Crop Top without wire or the Hedona from Chantelle or Smoothing Full Cup from Fantasie if you still want underwire support.

A nursing bra is obviously for nursing. It will have many of the same features as the maternity bra; soft, supportive, accommodating, but most nursing bras come with an extra side panel for support and some sort of clasped opening that allows the cup to drop down and easily allow the baby to feed or the mother to pump. During the first stages of breastfeeding, bra size may still vary depending on feeding schedule and milk production. Eventually milk production will settle into a more steady rhythm and breast size will stabilize accordingly.

When to buy?

At about four months it is probably time to get fitted for a maternity bra. Keep in mind that your breast will continue to change and grow.  The maternity bras should keep you going through the next three months but if they become uncomfortable or unsupportive don’t wait to upgrade to another size or style of maternity bra.  In the 7^th or 8^th month your breast size should stabilize and you should get fitted for your nursing bra leaving a little room in the cup.

What about a sleep bra?

Some women really appreciate the smooth comfort of a sleep bra.  A good sleep bra can help reduce back pain by giving extra support all night long. Choosing something with a soft cup and as few clips or hooks as possible is the key to getting all over comfort. Other women prefer a shelf cami or to simply rest freely.

Bringing Home Romance

After the baby is born it can be difficult to rekindle the romance. Many women experience a significant decrease in libido after giving birth. Often times the issue is hormonal, but even if the desire returns you may find yourself simply exhausted.

Make room for Romance

If you’ve lost the sense of sanctuary in your home try to find a space to reclaim for you and your partner.  Clear out the clutter to keep yourself calm. Make setting the mood a shared activity. Allow your partner to participate in creating space for intimacy.  Light a few scented candles and share a romantic bubble bath or treat each other with a relaxing massage.

Appreciate Yourself

Another significant issue is the change in self-image that occurs during and after pregnancy.  Establishing a new and healthy self-image can be difficult and confusing but taking the time to get know, understand and appreciate your new physique is the key to rebuilding that image.  Treat yourself to something beautiful.  Ease your way into romance with lingerie that comforts.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask

Excerpt from Reclaiming Desire: 4 Keys to Finding Your Lost Libido by Andrew Goldstein, M.D., and Marianne Brandon, Ph. D;

A woman’s sexuality is vital to her self-image and self-esteem.  So if her sex drive should falter, the consequences can reach far beyond the bedroom-to her sense of value as a person, her perception of her relationship with her partner, and her satisfaction with life in general…

·        Pregnancy and childbirth create a number of physical and psychological changes that have a dramatic impact on a woman’s sexual desire and response.

·        Because of the hormonal fluctuations that occur through pregnancy, a woman’s libido may vary in each trimester.

·        Most women report a decline in sexual function and satisfaction up to 1 year after childbirth.

·        If low libido persists for more than a year postpartum, chances are that deeper relationship issues are at work.

Fashions That Work

Even in the early stages of pregnancy you’ll notice changes in your body and even if you’re not ready for maternity clothing, it’s important to start thinking about the way your clothing treats your body.  Make smart choices about fabric and cuts.  Stock up on versatile basics that can grow with you, like soft stretchy pants and loose fitting tees. Spice up your basics with a few bold prints and colorful accessories. Don’t be afraid of dresses or formal wear with Mama Spanx and Power Mama hosiery to finish the look.

Getting back to work but not sure you’re ready for the old suit and business shirt? Try layering your basic blazer over a nursing cami or an elegant cardigan over a nursing chemise for a pulled together look and easy nursing access. 

Moms at Work

Lots of women return to their jobs after childbirth.  The transition can be difficult but the key is preparedness.  At least two weeks before returning to work you should gradually introduce the coming changes both to your infant and your self. Practice pumping breast milk at home.  Introduce your baby to the bottle early and have a secondary caregiver offer bottles before you go back to work.  Planning ahead can make the new routine easier for everyone and give you the time needed to work out problems without being late to work.   

Once back at work, breastfeeding can be quick and easy if you have the right supplies. Prepare your bag the night before with all your nursing needs; pump, breast pads, bottles, etc. Don’t forget extra things like an ice pack for long commutes and food for yourself. Why not bring a portable music player to help you relax plus you can time your breaks with the tracks. At work you’ll need a private and preferably quiet place with a comfy chair to sit in while you pump, plus room in the office fridge to keep the milk. 

Hospital Day

So you’ve got your hospital bag packed with the really important stuff like insurance papers and baby’s car seat. But what about packing a few special things for yourself?

Bring some things to make yourself feel welcome and warm while pacing the halls; like a good pair of slippers and warm socks, a cozy nightgown that’s not made of paper and a comfy robe that doesn’t open in the back. Gather up a few homey items to make the sterile rooms a little more lively like family photos, something from baby’s new room, your favorite throw blanket and of course your own pillow.

Planning Patience

You’ve been waiting nine months for delivery day but now that it’s here the real wait begins.  Be prepared for long check in at the hospital with small activities like knitting (or if you don’t trust yourself with sharp objects- checkers).  Pack a few energy snacks and juices for your partner or family members so they don’t miss something while running to the snack machine.  In for a really long wait? Bring along birth announcements and have friends and family start filling them out.

Sensational Experience

Make the day pleasing to all your senses or as many of them as you can still feel! The hustle bustle of delivery can be overwhelming, but if you plan ahead you can feel confident and comfortable. 

Settled into the hospital but not sure what to do next? Try to relax. Get your partner involved and keep you both busy with a relaxing massage or foot bath.  Bring some massage oil in a pleasing aroma or a scented bath bomb to fizz at your feet. Give yourself a soothing soundtrack via a portable audio device.

Bring Home New Home Remedies

While pregnant or nursing you have to be particularly careful about what you put into your own body because it will transfer to baby too. Common problems will need less common solutions since most medications can have adverse affects on baby’s delicate system.  There’s a wealth of wisdom to be found in some old-fashioned home remedies, that can just as effective of their over the counter counterparts.

Blocked Milk Ducts

Many new moms make more milk than needed which can clog and engorge the breasts.  Soaking breasts in a warm water bath and massaging from chest to nipple can release the excess milk and relieve the pain and pressure.

Herbal Relief: Make poultice or compress with soothing herbs like comfrey or parsley; wrap a small handful of herbs in a small piece of cheesecloth or similar fabric, tie up with string.  Boil the pouch in simmering water for 10 to 15 minutes then allow to cool before applying to irritated areas.

Cold Potato: Make a cold potato poultice to reduce inflammation and relieve mastitis. Apply raw grated potato to the area and cover with a cloth.

Tea & Milk

There are lots of herbal teas that can boost milk production, herbalists recommend various teas made from Aniseed (also a digestive aid), Milk Thistle, Alfalfa (which is also high in silica and calcium), Goat’s Rue (an Australian import to increase production of milk solids) and Raspberry Leaf (which also can be recommended during pregnancy for uterine toning). Check with your physician and a local herbalist for personalized advice.

Nipple Relief

Nursing nipples need extra care!  Most moms will experience mild to moderate nipple irritation. Keeping the area moisturized will reduce chafing and irritation. So treat a little tenderness with soothing Vitamin E oil or aloe vera gel. Need more comfort? Try an herbal compress or poultice to sooth sore nipples.

Check Out The Great Nursing Products Mentioned in This Article and More at: www.alamodelingerie.com

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