What lies beneath: ’Lingerie Handbook’ tackles delicates subject
If I hear the belabored statistic that 80 percent of women are wearing the wrong size bra one more time, I’m going to pop a strap.
I’m not doubting the stat’s authenticity — I usually see one Unibra and a few bulging Back Fatters by the time I get my morning coffee — but no one seems to have a solution to the problem (unless you count the companies that want “to help”. . . you spend $45 for another bra).
Thankfully, Rebecca Apsan has come to the rescue. The owner of Le Petite Coquette, a Manhattan lingerie boutique, Apsan has tackled this subject — along with many others — in “The Lingerie Handbook” (Workman, $13.95). With Valentine’s Day just weeks away, this informative guidebook will have you on top of your underwear in no time.
The illustrations and photographs may be the best part of the book because women can finally see the good, the bad and the awful fits. In “The Three Factors of Fit,” readers view pictures of breast spillage and back fat. It’s tasteful but to the point. Apsan then gives a “strap-to-band ratio test” so women can make the correct adjustments.
Most helpful? “What to Wear Under There,” a 10-page photo-rich section that schools women on matching bras with the right clothes. She makes a good case for wearing a seamless, full-coverage bra under T-shirts and fitted sweaters. Demi bras “can be less kind.”
“If the top of the cup divides the breast, it can create the dreaded four-boob look,” Apsan writes.
The panty section is just as helpful, and other chapters tackle slips, sleepwear and stockings. Apsan also strikes the right real-world/flirty-dressing balance. One of the prettiest models in the book is a big blonde with armpit fat and love handles.
Best of all, Apsan doesn’t label-drop. There are historical references to brands ranging from La Perla to Frederick’s of Hollywood but no mention of specific unmentionables.
For that kind of objectivity, I’d almost drive to her New York City shop. But “The Lingerie Handbook” saves me the trip.
Give your undergarments an overhaul
For Rebecca Apsan, good lingerie is like flying first class. Once you’ve experienced it, you’ll never go back. These Valentine’s Day picks are a good place to start your upgrade:
# Le Mystere’s bras are a gift that is good for the heart. $1 from each sale of eight designated styles goes to the American Heart Association. From $60 atSaks Fifth Avenue. For style information, go to www.lemystere.com.
# Yasmin balcony bra and panty is the perfect lingerie for Groundhog Day doubters. $52 and $20, respectively, at www.figleaves.com.
# Seven Ways to Say I Love You panty set by Mary Greenfeatures day-of-the-week underwear for the adult set. Ti amo? $105 at www.figleaves.com.
# Baby doll nighties by Ambrielle will guarantee a spring thaw. From $30 to $44 at JC Penney.
# Pink floral chemise is perfect for a romantic night . . . and tasteful enough to wear the next morning. $20 at Avenue or www.avenue.com.
