Uplifting style and practicality
ROSLYN ELLIS, Brown Thomas group lingerie buyer, knows the importance of good underwear.
“It can make such a difference to your confidence and how you carry yourself,” says the 34-year-old, who’s worked with BT for the last 10 years.
And don’t think it’s all thongs and funny clippy bits, girls, there’s lots of practicality in this season’s offerings.
“Depending on your lifestyle, your underwear needs can vary hugely,” explains Roz.
“I think there is something for everyone this season with our Live Life in Lingerie campaign — it’s basically a guide to the new season collections, offering expert advice to shape your day from 9 to 5, desk to dinner and everything in between.”
There’s certainly plenty to choose from with 50 designer brands across lingerie, shapewear, hosiery, nightwear, maternity wear and swimwear.
There’s a lot of new trends out there, with vibrant pops of colour, seductive lace detailing and prints.
And Roz’s favourite? “If I had to choose, it would be the Triumph Vintage Essence in Cameo, the long lines are beautiful and really flattering.”
We asked Brown Thomas group lingerie buyer Roslyn Ellis to give us her top tips for lingerie and workwear
“The first and most important tip is, always get fitted. It is not just that you might be a different size from one brand to another, but every woman can change shape or size at different life stages.
“I can’t stress enough how good you feel about yourself when you are wearing the right size and shape for your body. During your work day, the last thing you want to worry about is an uncomfortable bra. Comfort and structure are key here and a contour style is perfect under a sweater or everyday dress.”
* Wacoal Embrace Lace contour Bra (C-G €68.50)
Why? It offers great coverage as well as great shape. If you do not want padding, but equally do not want anything showing through, this is perfect and it has a pretty lace scalloped edging. This style also comes in a petite version starting at a AA cup and really enhances for a great boost.
Good Foundation wear is an absolute must have for the smoothest silhouette.
* Wacoal Cool Definitions High Waist Brief €60.50
Why? It firms the tummy and waist area but has lighter compression on the derrière to smooth, define and lift, but not flatten! It not only shapes but also decreases the temperature of your skin by 1-2 degrees so whether you’re running around or in a stuffy office wearing your AW knitwear, it keeps you cool, comfortable and smooth.
Coming into the cold winter months, shaping hosiery is a really clever trick to shaping your silhouette. Shaping hosiery immediately gives a sleeker look.
* Spanx Tight End Tight €44 or Wolford Individual 100 Denier Support Tights €49
* Wacoal Red Carpet Low Back Bustier €94.50
* Calvin Klein Push Positive €49.50 for the ultimate cleavage
* Fashion Forms Backless Strapless U Plunge Bra €30 the perfect solution for those tricky wardrobe dilemmas
* Fashion Forms Tapes To Go €7 are a must-have for any emergency quick fixes on hem lines
* Spanx Super Higher Power Panties €44 for a sleek finish
When it comes to everyday lingerie, you don’t have to avoid colour. Many labels now offer everyday, wearable styles in the most stunning colours, and it’s the best way to give your mood a lift.
* Fantasie Vivienne in Red €56
* Stella Clara Whispering in Red €120
* Scandale Sirene Red Enhancing bra €44.90 & high waist brief €34.90

