I crossed a street on my way to the gym. I let a woman pass who was a wearing a long, white skirt,with a peach colored tank top under a sheer white, flowing cardigan. What a great look, so simple and easy. She passed in front of me as I slowed to open the door to the gym and I noticed the biggest mistake no one should ever make: she was wearing leopard print panties. My whole impression crushed in an instant. The door could have hit me in the face and the wound would not be as deep as this fashion faux pax.

We dress to feel good. We dress to impress. We dress to protect ourselves from the elements. We must also remember to simply dress. Dressing is a simple process from the inside out. Bras and panties, if one wears panties, play a huge role in the complete look of one’s personal style. A special occasion outfit can turn into a puddle of fabric without the proper undergarments.  Jeans and a t-shirt can lose their simplicity with a bra strap falling or a thong creeping out among a waist land.

I made a wedding dress for a dear friend three years back. I asked her to bring her best bra and full slip to begin the draping process.  She agreed but was unclear as to the purpose. I built the gown around her body knowing we would eventually have a custom-made corset to support the bust and taper the waist. At the beginning of the process the good bra and full slip allowed the fabric to follow her natural curves. I created the first sample out of the real fabric but did not fit her until her corset was complete. The first thing she said when she put the sample on with the corset was, “I understand now. The shape changes completely with the corset”.  Remember, what is underneath always shows.

Take the time to find the right bra. Nordstrom has a service that will fit you for a proper bra. They measure and adjust and search for the right bra. I had success with this service but need to go back now that I have lost some weight and have also aged a few years since the last fitting, two things that contribute to poor fit. Your clothes will look better with a well-fit bra. You will feel better. Anything you buy and wear will show its true self when wearing the proper bra. Smooth, slightly padded bras for tees and light weight sweaters. Lace and trim show through and create a focus you may not have been seeking. Lace bras do make a statement when revealed and whisper the secret sexiest you under weightier fabrics. Plunging bras with padding help create a lovelier shape to a deep neckline as well as add support. And of course, one should always have a good supportive sports bra, two is better, three is best – stay inspired.

As for panties, they always show unless you’re not wearing them. Panty shapes, colors and fabrics all serve a purpose besides just looking pretty. For low-rise pants or jeans, wear the same panty. Low rise, polyester, and snug. They won’t rise up and will stay hidden. Wear a full seamless panty with slim fitting skirts or slinky fabrics. Consider how the panty looks and feels when you first put the garment on. Will you be pulling the sides of the legs or hiking up the waist? Time for new panties! If you like a thong buy new ones regularly and throw the olds one out just as regularly.  Keep the fit smooth and taught. You will feel good about what’s underneath those fabulous old jeans you can’t live without. Lastly, with light colors or sheer fabrics wear a little higher rise flesh tone panty. Your fabulous long skirt or simple dress will thank you for it.

We all see what we see. And we also see what we don’t think we see. Think about the undergarments. Think about how they layer under your favorite skirt or sweater. Spend the time and a little money to dress you underneath. You’ll be glad for the support.