Friends don't let friends wear the wrong bra size

Or maybe they do? 

I'm a professional bra-fitter, so I see many ladies of all shapes and sizes. Most of these women come to me for a fitting because they are experiencing discomfort or are unhappy with their silhouette, sometimes both.  After having a fitting, many of these women are surprised at how misinformed they have been and leave very happy, vowing to tell their friends that they need to have a fitting, as well. "This has been life changing. I need to tell my co-workers."or"I'm bringing my girlfriend here this weekend, she definitely needs this!", exclaims Happy Customer. 

But guess what? That's not exactly what happens. 

The customers do end up bringing their friends, family, and co-workers back into the store, but not for a fitting. Well, not directly. Unsuspecting friends and family are apparently asked by past customers to visit our store under the auspices of picking up a gift, or perhaps another matching bottom, etc.. and surprise! Once they are in the store, these unsuspecting ladies are encouraged to get a fitting, or make an appointment for a fitting. For instance,  Happy Customer says, "Well, while we're here, why don't you get a new bra, too?" I see the look of unease cross over friend's face. And sometimes I hear in response, "But I'm wearing the right bra size", or "I'm comfortable in my bra, I don't need this", "or "I don't feel like getting undressed right now." And well-intentioned friends says, "Well, lets just make an appointment for you to come back at a better time." 

By now, one of our staff usually steps in and explains how a fitting works, the respect for modesty, the low key, no pressure approach with some education on fitting thrown in for future reference. Our service is complimentary and purchasing is always optional. Usually, these ladies end up getting a fitting and are thrilled they did, but it still leaves me wondering how many women never end up suggesting a bra fitting to a friend in need. Or is it even the right thing to do?  Should we be suggesting to friends and family that they need a literal lift? And if so, what's the gentlest way to go about it?  How would you react if someone invited you to visit a lingerie store and once there, the attention is turned on you? 

Hmmm......

No more sagging breasts!

Finding a bra after an extreme weight loss (20-30 pounds) or breast feeding can be very challenging, frustrating and time consuming. Problems range from loose skin, uneven or sagging breasts. We understand those issues very well and help customers narrow down bra size, style and best fit based on each customer’s body shape and concerns.

Tips: Be realistic with yourself. Breasts were not meant to defy gravity but we can certainly help from sagging or drooping further :-) So, schedule your bra fitting appointment today. As one of my customers said it's like getting a breast lift without surgery and without the price tag associated with it!

Best High Impact Sports Bra for D Cup +

I don't know how many customers come in the store and blatantly admit that they exercise in their regular bra and sometimes even wear 2 normal bras because they can't find anything that will hold them during the most intense exercise (Zumba, Cardio Kickboxing or Step anyone)?

So we decided it was time to introduce some high impact sports bras (D cup +) from Shock Absorber and Freya that will stop the bouncing, provide maximum support, minimize chafing, and wick away moisture.




Freya Active Sports Bra - Available in Nude and Red



Shock Absorber Max Sports Bra Top B4490

 Here are some helpful tips when you are shopping for Sports Bras:

* A good sports bra can reduce breast movement by up to 74%* according to a study done by Shock Absorber.

* Unsupported bouncing may lead to permanent damage (i.e sagging breasts).

* When choosing a sports bra, consider the type of activity - high to low impact.

* One good sports bra is better than two normal bras because sports bras are designed not only to give support but also to reduce bouncing.

* Look for moisture-wicking fabrics especially if you sweat a lot!

NEW: Chantelle Lingerie Fall Collection 2011

Preview: Lingerie Fall Trends 2011:

 This Fall, my favorite collection from Chantelle is the Masculin Feminine:





Chantelle Masculin Feminine 3510

  
Why? It has an edge with its pin-stripe details and lacy top. Very corporate, if you ask me! Perfect if you want an interesting black bra with an edge and still want to keep it corporate underneath (as in lawyer).  Hurry up this high fashion Chantelle collection inspired by menswear is only available in Specialty stores.

Chantelle Eternelle



Chantelle Eternelle Passion Red 3620 

 
Why: If you are looking to add a deep red/burgundy lingerie set to your drawer, this should be it.  It is a very sophisticated and mature red.  This should get his attention. 
 The Chantelle Eternelle Collection is made from the exclusive handmade “Calais Lace", which provides a guarantee of high quality and an exceptional level of  workmanship. 

Chantelle Rive Gauche






Chantelle Rive Gauche- 3080- Sapphire/Navy

   Why: This is by far one of our best sellers. It combines a great fit, comfort and lift especially in the bigger cup size (up to an H cup in style 3281). Love the Navy color! It is a nice change from Black if you are looking to diversify a bit.

Chantelle Icone

The Chantelle Icone collection is a great collection and the color this Fall does not disappoint: Dark Purple/Plum. It's the perfect color for cheering up a drab autumn day! This looks great on any skin color. Try it!



Chantelle Icone Iris


Why: Absolutely love the color!

What's your love at first sight business story?

Recently, I noticed the ad pictured above in the window at the Citibank located immediately next door to our European bra-fitting store, at 11th and E Street, NW, Washington, DC.  Citibank's ad uses the theme, "What's your love at first sight story?," to appeal to small business owners to help them secure financing to launch or expand their business.  Ironically, the name of our store, Coup de Foudre, pronounced "koo de fudre," means "Love at First Sight"!  Coincidence?

This ad also reminded me of my dear friend, fellow entrepreneur, Kassie, the owner of SimplySoles, an on-line & catalog shoe business with 3 retail locations!  It's like the ad was targeted directly at Kassie and Simply Soles!

Coup de Foudre and Simply Soles are proof that launching your own small business is truly a "love-at-first-sight" story!

Why do we have discrete shopping bag?

The shopping bag.  Do it right and you can have customers advertising your brand time and again.


We could have gone crazy (like this one below- when properly carried, this shopping bag makes it look like you’re in your underwear) and brand our shopping bag with our logo and drawn attention to it.  After all, isn't it the best way to advertise your store around town?  When a well-designed shopping bag gets toted all around, it provides wide-reaching advertising and public relations for your store.  This is a no-brainer --except that we discovered early on that what seemed to be a good idea, was actually not.



Lingerie Shopping Bag



Why: Coup de Foudre Lingerie is located in the Business District of Washington, DC (near Metro Center) home to many prestigious and conservative law firms (Arnold & Porter, Crowell & Moring, Hogan & Hartson,  DLA Piper), Capitol hill, White house (4 blocks away) and financial firms.  Most of our customers shop during their lunch hours and don't want to come back to their office with a shopping bag that spells the very nature of their purchase.  I don't know how many men have asked what type of shopping bags we have!  They feel relieved that our shopping bags are not pink or branded. 

Who would have thought?

Sexy coffee cup sleeve for Earth Day!

When I first opened Coup de Foudre Lingerie, seven years ago, a friend of mine, Amy A, gave me the most original and thoughtful gift- a pink & black corset purse! It was perfect...and so in line with my new business venture.

However, I would not dare to wear the corset purse because I thought I would get a few stare. We currentlyuse it as a unique accent in the store. Have you seen it? It's hard not to notice it. Many customers have commented on it over the years.

Recently, I came accross some Coffee Corset sleeve...they are cute...and sexy- and if you know me-I am really into my coffee. So, why not dress up my coffee cup for fun ? It's also a fantastic alternative to the wasteful cardboard sleeves typically used with disposable coffee cups to insulate your hands from your hot drink.

It really gives my skinny latte a stylish and sexy touch! The sleeve is a "one size fits most" like the Hanky Panky Low Rider thong or the Cosabella Never Say Never thong!

Now, I need to figure out which one my coffee cup sleeves I should wear!

Coup de Foudre Lingerie QR code?

Have you noticed a weird looking black and white square image showing up in ads in magazines? To some it looks like a crazy crossword puzzle or a postage stamp on steroid but this is how a QR, or Quick Response looks like. If you scan the below QR Code with your smartphone it will take you to the Coup de Foudre Lingerie web site! Crazy, hum?

Introducing Marlies Dekkers!

Happy to introduce a new brand and collection to our store: Marlies Dekkers Dame de Paris

Marlies Dekkers Dame de Paris

Why we like this collection: We love the understated allure of this spectacular piece! It's unique, stylish yet functional and can be worn everyday under the tighest T shirt. The signature straps are tone-on-tone and frame the cups. They met to mimic the gothic arches of the famous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The smooth moulded cups will ensure a perfect fit. It's definitely a show stopper!

Come and try the Marlies Dekkers Dame de Paris Collection. Available in size 32-36 BCD

A look at Simone Perele Spring Collection 2011

Here's a look at the Simone Perele Lingerie Spring Collection 2011.

Color of the Season Spring 2011: Coral Rose or Coral Crush! Surprisingly, this is actually a color that is universally flattering. I love it! The shade is just bold, energetic and vibrant! A great way this spring to experiment with this fabulous color is to spice up and dazzle your underwear drawer with this stunning Simone Perele Avant Premiere bra and panty set in Coral (Available in store in April)

Simone Perele Avant Premiere Coral

Discover your soft and romantic side with the Simone Perele Nina Collection in Violine (Mauve color). It is inspired by japanese origami, fine pleated knit brings to light the delicate lines of a flower. Designed for daily seduction, attractive floral leavers lace harmonizes with sophisticated pleated knit for true comfort and visual richness. (Available in store mid March)

Simone Perele Nina Violine/Mauve