Holiday Looks: What Lies Beneath

Tis the season to refresh the lingerie drawer!

From the LifeMinute Team

November 7, 2014

On Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen... On Maidenform, Bali and Playtex and...

Okay, Rudolph may have been the flashiest reindeer of them all, but even he needed some backup. And your hot holiday dress may be the flashiest to hit the seasonal circuit, but you too are going to need some...reinforcements.

So what to wear under there? Style and Fit Expert Jenny Altman recommends matching up the key pieces of your holiday party look with your undergarments. And since no two looks are alike, it isn't one-size-fits-all when it comes to your base layer, either.

Take, for instance, the bodycon dress...as in super body-conscious, curve-hugging and impact-making. Jenny says, "Now whether you go for a classic lace or a sparkled sequins, it's really important that you have something nice and smooth underneath so you don't get any of those lumps and bumps. Maidenform has really mastered the shapewear trend." And their latest innovation? The Sleek Smoothers collection -- in a Shorty or a Hi-Waist Boyshort, whatever fits your fancy. Jenny explains, "What I think you'll love about this is it really targets your problem areas. We've all got that little problem spot in our tummy, rear, or even in our lower back. This is great for focusing on that while being really lightweight and really comfortable." And for smoothing from top to bottom, Jenny loves the all-in-one, wear-your-own-bra Body Briefer because you get the comfort of smoothing shapewear along with the comfort and support of being able to wear your own bra. All of these items in the collection are under $40...and they're sure to come in handy in the New Year and beyond. "They are so comfortable and lightweight," says Jenny, "They're not just for holidays; you really can wear these shapers every day."

Even if you opt for a layered look for your holiday events, that base layer is still key, perhaps even more so. "Now when you're layering your tops, you already have a lot going on," explains Jenny, "So you want to make sure your undergarments do not add any extra bulk." Enter Bali, and its One Smooth U Ultra Light collection of bras, which gives natural shaping without any of that extra bulk. Jenny says, "It's the key to looking slim while layering for the colder weather. It has a 2-ply back for added back smoothing and convertible back-adjusting straps for wardrobe versatility. But what's key for this bra is the feminine design." Whether you choose the style with the beautiful illusion neckline or the style with a gorgeous lace bra frame... Well, really, why choose? These bras give you a boost in more ways than one... "They make you feel and look great and confident under all of your clothes," says Jenny.

And finally, a legging look is hot for this holiday season. Jenny recommends taking this look from Fall Favorite to Holiday Hot by opting for a legging in leather. "What's most important here is you do not want visible panty lines," explains Jenny. She likes Bali's new line of Ultra Light bottoms in Hipster or Hi-Cut style. "It's a luxurious silky soft material, and it's smooth under all of your clothes. The no-slip, no-ride-up fabric stays in place all day, so you can really wear these undies under your leather leggings, to the office, out for dinner or even out at dancing," says Jenny. But don't stop until you've taken care of up top -- Jenny suggests a drapey top over leggings and, of course, the right bra to go with it: the Playtex Body Revelation bra. Jenny explains, "The balconet design features an open neckline and wider set straps, perfect for any of these plunge-front tops. You get great contouring here through shape enhancement and the vents show through with just a little bit of molding in the cup."

And finally, "If you're looking for additional tips for how to look gorgeous and feel great through the holiday season, remember this is a perfect time to refresh your lingerie drawer," says Jenny.

Key piece of shapewear? Check! A bra that fits you really well? Check. Gorgeous lingerie? Check! You're ready to make the holiday rounds. Reindeer optional.

And for more fabulous shapewear and bra options, holiday-gift yourself with a visit to Maidenform.com, PlaytexFits.com and BaliIntimates.com.

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