Quite a few conversations transpired after publishing my post about foundation. Some people told me they learned a lot from what I shared, and they were interested in learning more. So, I decided it would be a good idea to revisit the world of foundation.

Foundation is the basis or groundwork of anything – and that includes a polished, put together look. The proper undergarments are the foundation of a successful outfit.

The world of undergarments can be overwhelming, so let’s take it step by step. We will begin with panties. There are several types of panties to choose from – there are; bikinis, classic briefs, high-cut briefs, control briefs, hipster, tanga, boyshorts, thongs, and G-strings. It is very important to select the correct pair of panties to wear with your clothing. There are just as many different fabrics of panties as there are styles. Cotton, microfiber, polyester, nylon, and lycra are a few fabrics that are used to make panties.

But, what about those dreadful visible panty lines? In my opinion, there are two styles of panties that are the best for eliminating the embarrassment of visible panty lines, and those are thongs and G-strings. Be that as it may, there are times when thongs and G-strings are not the practical choices for the day, or they may not be your cup of tea. If this is the case, I would suggest Microfiber or seamless panties. I am suggesting these options because they are comfortable, breathable, and most of all, seamless. You can wear them with everything without fear of the panty line being seen through your clothing.

There are other concerns we face when choosing the right panties for the day. What if you like lace, polka dots, and stripes? Don’t worry, there are ways around that too, but we’ll get into that a little later. If you read my earlier post, “Let’s Get Intimate”  – you already know how much I love colorful printed bras and panties, and there are ways to conceal those prints and lines from the world when you are wearing light colored clothing. However, I do suggest selecting you choice of panty and bra combination based on the material and color of the clothing you are wearing. It would not be a good idea to wear your favorite lime green panties with the smiley faces on them with your white linen wide leg trousers.

Patterns and colors aren’t the only aspects of undergarments that can cause unwanted visuals. Some materials that are used in designing undergarments can cause unsightly lumps through your clothing depending on the fabric. Lace and bows add a wonderful touch of femininity and beauty to bras and panties. However, they can cause unwanted lumps through your clothing. There are quite a few shapewear solutions and undergarments available for concealing bumps and patterns.

One great solution for concealing lace, bows, and patterns is a bodysuit. Bodysuits provide full coverage, and they come in a variety of styles and fabrics. They are a great choice for concealing colorful and lacey matching bra and panty sets. Plus they can be worn with pants or dresses. Bodysuits can also assist in concealing the lumps and bumps of the hips and thighs if you have them.

Another solution for concealing lace, bows, patterns, and that fleshly cottage cheese when wearing a dress or skirt is a shaping slip. They provide the same coverage as the bodysuit option.

I know I mentioned a couple of ways to conceal bras, but let’s look at some of the things to consider when purchasing a bra. The most important thing about selecting a bra is to make sure it fits properly. Bras that do not fit properly are uncomfortable and unsightly. We should not look like we have more breasts than we actually do. There are several styles of bras to choose from, and every style does not work for every body. It is vital to get measured for your bras and don’t shy away from trying them on to ensure you have the perfect fit before purchasing them. Department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom are good places to go to get measured for bras.

Not only is it important to have the correct fit, but we must also choose the correct bra for our outfit. Meaning, if you are wearing a strapless or halter top – you should be wearing a strapless or convertible bra.

Convertible bras are a great purchase and worth the investment. They typically come with clear straps in addition to the straps that match the design and color of the bra. The clear straps are a great alternative. They provide the traditional support of the classic bra without the look of one. Convertible bras do exactly what the name states, the can be worn without straps, halter, crisscrossed, one shoulder, or both straps. They are very versatile. Another thing to consider is, if you are wearing a white t-shirt without an undershirt or camisole, you should not be wearing a red bra. A black or beige bra should be worn under light colored clothing depending on your skin-tone.

Another option for avoiding visual lumpiness through your tops or dresses is the t-shirt bra. This bra is a great choice for a seamless look without adding garments. T-shirt bras are made of smooth textures that make them virtually undetectable through your clothing.

Now, my favorite undergarment – the camisole or cami for short. I absolutely love camis! They are perfect for concealing bras and great to sleep in, – but I digress. Camis provide excellent coverage when you are wearing thin or light colored tops or dresses. They are also a great choice for eliminating cleavage when you are wearing low cut tops or dresses. Pairing a cami with a cardigan or V-neck sweater can also add a little pop to your outfit.

By now, I am sure you want to know where to go to get all of these wonderful items I have mentioned. Here we go!

My favorite spot for purchasing camis is Old Navy. They provide a plethora of colors, styles, and lengths at a VERY reasonable price. Another one of my go-to spots for camis is Target; they also have a huge selection of colors and styles at a reasonable price.

Target is also my store of choice for shapewear. As I mentioned in the previous post, “Foundation, Foundation, Foundation”, I am a huge fan of Sara Blakely’s Love Your Assets line, and you can find it at Target. They carry the shaping slips, bodysuits, shaping camisoles, and shaping shorts.

My store of choice for bras and panties is Lane Bryant (LB). As I stated in the post, “Let’s Get Intimate”, LB has a great intimate apparel line called Cacique. This line provides a variety of styles for bras and panties that are befitting for all clothing designs. You will find seamless bras and panties, convertible bras, camis, and shapewear at LB. You can also get measured for your bra at LB, just ask.

Remember every great thing begins with a good foundation.

Be sure to check out my foundation picks and I would love to hear your feedback!

Here are the links to the previous post mentioned above…check them out too!

https://www.stylishbuxombeauty.com/lets-get-intimate/

https://www.stylishbuxombeauty.com/foundation-foundation-foundation/

Until the next time, be you and most importantly…love you.

Being uniquely you is being uniquely beautiful.

B.B.