149/ Ask Melmira: All Your Undergarments & Swimwear Questions Answered
Minimizers, tiny titties, sloping shoulders, supportive swimwear, going wire free, breathable bras & more!
Dear readers,
I’ve brought back Melmira to answer more of your undergarment and swimwear questions! You may remember them from this informative newsletter I did with them last summer:
TL/DR: Melmira is a third-generation, Toronto-based lingerie and swimwear boutique currently owned by four sisters, Amie (46), Leah (44), Holly (40), and Marni (39).
Like my last newsletter with them, this is not a sponsored post! The sisters have been in the thick of serving clients on the floor for almost 20 years, and they’re so knowledgeable about breasts, bodies and just about every brand and style on the market. I’ve turned to them throughout the last decade as my body went through enormous changes over two rounds of pregnancy and breastfeeding. They’re who I refer all my Toronto-based friends and clients to, including those dealing with concerns such as mastectomies and breast reconstruction. And now, I’m thrilled to be sharing their knowledge with you!
Q: Since I had my kid, my boobs have not only doubled in size but also sit lower on my torso. They’re not droopy, but my chest feels... long. I don't want to wear a push-up bra because that makes my boobs look even bigger. What other options do I have? My friend told me to try a minimizer bra. Is that a fancy word for a sports bra?!
We see this concern in the fitting room all day long!
The key is to contain the breasts and redirect their fullness by: 1) lifting them up, 2) towards the midline, and 3) forward.
A minimizer is a shallow cup that “minimizes” (i.e. flattens, compresses) the breasts’ otherwise forward projection. The result will likely be an east-west situation with your breasts. A sports bra has the same effect, just with thicker and stronger fabrics.
If you want to create the most flattering shape, a seamed, three-part cup will be your best friend; it will pull you up and in, e.g. this one by Prima Donna. [Irene: I’ve worn this bra in three sizes over the past 12 years (er, pregnancy). It’s my go-to and all-time favourite.]
While a push-up may seem like a solution, often after having children, our breast tissue is softer and easily spills out of a push-up which creates more fullness than you might like. Lace and seams do the important work of supporting us!