Dealing With Pesky Bra Straps

As most of my clients will tell you, I am pretty easy going.  I’m a big believer in self-expression in your wardrobe, and I help women create this for themselves.  To this end, I am always open to exploring ways to make something unconventional work.  That said, can we please, please do away with the trend of visible bra straps?  I mean, do we really need to see someone’s underwear?

Okay, I know sometimes bra straps have the annoying habit of peeking out here or there, and it’s not the end of the world, but the truth is that they really don’t need to.  I’m assuming it’s more that women don’t know how to properly conceal them than that they really think they are making a stylish fashion statement by exposing them (or thinking that no one notices!).  And, yes, I know teenagers do it all the time, but let’s face it, teens are notorious for enjoying the shock value of their fashion statements (although at this point I think they think it’s fashionable!) and, hey, one can get away with a lot more at 16 than you can at 35 or 58.

Besides who wants their bra straps to be the focus of attention!  (Well, actually I did at my wedding last year, but I’ll explain that in a minute).

So, for those of you who have been unconsciously letting your bra straps slip and slide, here are a few alternatives:

• Lingerie Straps – On occasion lingerie straps are built into a garment but if not, a tailor can add them in a heartbeat.  Lingerie straps consist of a little string that hooks under your bra strap and snaps it into place so it is secured to your outfit and won’t go peeking out unexpectedly.

• The Right Bra – Racerback or convertible bras pull the bra straps in closer to your neck so they can’t slip off your shoulders (this is especially handy for those of us with sloped shoulders).  Just be sure the straps are not visible in the back by your neck (this is dependent upon the neckline of the top you are wearing).  (I love Wacoal, e.g).

• Strap Attachments – These handy devices immediately turn any bra into a racerback.  Less expensive than buying a new bra and it does the trick.  Choose the right one for you.

• Sparkly Straps – This is one of my favorite options.  Have your strapless bra fitted with elegant sparkly straps and let them show!  (I wore these at my wedding (as you can see in the picture (I was singing to my partner–in case you were wondering)), and every woman there asked me about them!).   The best source is www.showoffstraps.com where Susan uses Swarovski crystals.  Since you only need one or two (although you might want more when you see all the stunning choices!) it’s worth getting a beautiful, well-made set.

• Strapless Bra – When all else fails, do away with the straps altogether!  These days there is a strapless bra that fits nearly every bra size (okay, there are a few women (you know who you are) who just can’t do it), and they stay in place, and are relatively comfortable.

• Avoid Sleeveless Tops – While this is certainly an option, it is a bit drastic and not necessary as you can see by all the other choices above.

So, let the teenagers do their thing if they must.  The rest of us will set the standard for timeless beauty and elegance.  Why not draw focus to features you want others to see rather than let it happen haphazardly (and not always to your advantage!).