Why I Chose Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation had never been a top concern for me. Ditto for cosmetic surgery. It had always seemed like a cop out. As if the people who went under the knife for it did it because they were insecure. Not only that, but they thought it would be the "be all and end all" for them. In other words, they'd still feel insecure after the fact because they hadn't dealt with the real problem. Their own self-image.Then one day, I saw some interviews with women who had done it. It really blew me away.

They weren't insecure. They were happy for having done it. It wasn't like they felt they HAD to. They wanted to regardless of what other people thought or said. So, it was their OWN decision. They knew the risks, had heard all the stuff in the past in the news about the safety of implants.It's hard to describe how it felt to hear them. It felt... Well, it was kind of empowering. Their bodies, their choice.

That's what I got out of it. And so, that's when I realized that all my negative obsessing about breast augmentation was wrong, a cover up. I was trying avoid my own interest in the procedure by putting it down.This isn't to say that it's the same for everyone. Nor do I want anyone to think that they SHOULD do it just because they're "interested". I had to think a long time about this, and feel comfortable knowing that it was what I wanted.After preparing myself, I then went on the mythical quest for the perfect surgeon.

What I found was a lot of information about all the different ways breast augmentation could be done. On top of that, the different kinds of implants. As well, the legal restrictions around certain types of implants - namely the silicone-filled variety.The other thing I found was how different the surgeons and/or clinics marketed themselves. There were a lot of ads that would reaffirm everything I thought was wrong about it.

Fortunately, there were some that actually sounded intelligent, i.e. not some turn-of-the-century hawker selling snake oil.Talking with these people, who actually sounded like they cared, I was finally able to make a decision. They also answered the endless questions and concerns I had about the different kinds of breast augmentation. Not only the pros and cons of each technique but what had to be done afterwards to make sure that the implants wouldn't rupture.Although it took a while, in the end I was glad I did my homework first. But more importantly, I'm glad for having seen those women talk about their own experiences with breast augmentation.

Swim Wear for Women with Baby Bumps

Whoever says that pregnant women can't use swim wear during their pregnancy is mistaken. Nowadays, there are swim suits or swim wear specifically designed to cater the needs of pregnant women. With the creation of swim wear for moms-to-be, women can now hit the beach, wear the latest fashion in bikinis and show that baby bump during summer escapades.

Before, some pregnant women had to suffer watching people in enjoying the cool waters. In fact, these pregnant women just read books or prepared the food during a family outing. The bottom line is that pregnant women stare enviously as other people swim and have fun under the sun. It was a belief that swimming was bad to the baby and mother as it will cause miscarriage.I had a pregnant aunt, who used to wear black fitting shorts like tights and white t-shirts, since there were no bikinis that will her body. Incidentally, my aunt is like a water nymph for she loves water so much. In fact, she often tries different water sports like diving, surfing and jet skiing whenever we go to the beach. We often call her a daredevil nymph as she fears absolutely nothing when it comes to water.

But then again, she mellowed down for she was pregnant with her first child. When she was pregnant and we visited the beach, she wanted so badly to join us. However, the problem was that she had no swim wear that fitted her. We all know that most beaches have a rule that requires swim wear for men and women.

During her second pregnancy, she was glad to discover that a lot of boutiques are selling plus size swim wear. She thought, "Why not use a plus size? It fits me, so I will use it." When we went to the beach, her plus size swim wear is not actually good for her body, since it makes her swim uncomfortably as if the swim wear doesn't fit her. In terms of size, plus size swim wear can be dependable but on the actual use, it's not.

Plus size swimsuits are not designed for pregnant women, but for women whose size is twelve and above. Thank goodness, Brazilian Bikinis came up with their maternity swim wear which is designed solely for pregnant women. Now, my aunt, as well as other pregnant women out there, can enjoy swimming comfortably while looking elegant and sexy.

The EQ maternity swim wear by Brazilian Bikini is inspired by Harmony swim suit. Harmony is the best-seller one piece swim suit. This swim wear for pregnant women allows women to glide, dive, and swim in the waters without posing a threat of sagging and having gaps while using it. The colors and style include kona surf blue, Maroon Hibiscus, Navy Daisy, and Tangerine Floral prints. But for those who want it plain and simple, black color is also available. One of the best features of this swim wear is that it has a line on the front and back which enables to support the body and keeps it from sagging. Another great feature of this suit is that it's "form fitting".

This means that it can elevate curves that doesn't make the wearers look like mascots.Another good source of maternity swim wear is Nicole Michelle Maternity shop, which specializes on clothes for pregnant women. This shop has a huge collection of maternity swim wear, and one of the in demand swim suit for moms-to-be is Nicole Maternity Goddess Maternity Swimsuit. The said maternity swim wear comes in white fabric together with touches of blue and green colors. It has a thin halter strap that can be removed if you don't want to use it. It has a double line found at the breast area for support and protection. It is a swimsuit that looks like a short dress, since the style is for full coverage.

Pregnant women can wear it while swimming or for a beach party. It is very stylish and at the same time functional for pregnant women. The goddess style swim suit can be handwashed and ironed, without threat of sagging.The development of swim wear or bikinis for women with baby bumps is really beneficial not just for sporty pregnant women but to all *pregnant women*.

This creation is not just simply for recreational purposes since swimming has a healthy benefit for pregnant women. In fact, a lot of doctors and physicians are recommending pregnant women to swim during their pregnancy. Swimming helps exercise and relax bodies of pregnant women. Sometimes, there are pregnancy trainings that require women to dip in the water while practicing delivery of the baby.Today, women, like my aunt, don't have to watch enviously at the sidelines while others are having fun in the water; different maternity swim wear are here to make swimming possible for them.

Helping Fathers Is Helping Mothers

Have you ever received a call for breastfeeding help from a father? Have you ever helped a mother with the father present? Some Leaders are quite comfortable in these situations, while others are not.

Consider this scenario. You are asked to make a home visit to help a mother and baby achieve a good latch-on. You've given the mother help by phone but your suggestions don't seem to be working for her. You agree to visit and arrive with appropriate handouts, THE WOMANLY ART OF BREASTFEEDING, BREASTFEEDING ANSWER BOOK and your Leader's Log. The father greets you at the door and directs you to the mother and baby. He follows you in and takes a seat.

Several insights can help Leaders learn how to help a mother while helping the father in what some might feel is an awkward situation.

In a situation similar to the one above you might first introduce yourself and spend a few minutes talking to the couple, congratulating them on their new baby. Next you might ask the mother about breastfeeding and what she perceives to be the problem.

After talking about her concerns, you ask the mother for permission to observe the baby nursing. You ask where she would be most comfortable and suggest that she move there. You show her how to use pillows to help position the baby and reduce any tension in her arms and upper body. As you guide her in the technique to properly position her baby, you explain what you are doing. It is important to make a point of always asking permission and washing your hands before any contact with the mother or baby.

Father's Perspective
The father may ask questions while observing or offer his insights. What he has to say can be quite helpful. Perhaps he's picked up on something. He is also another pair of eyes and ears and can help the mother remember what you are telling and showing her.

It's also possible that a father may not like or may disagree with what you are doing or saying. In this situation it is important to remember that whether the father is asking questions or seems confrontational, it is his baby and partner. His behavior most likely comes from his caring and concern for the health and well-being of his family. Take the time to be kind and compassionate. Fathers need to be educated about breastfeeding, too.

Several popular books on the market describe the differences in how men and women think and communicate. Some talk about a man's need to "fix" things, find solutions, to know the reason why things happen the way they do. You can use this information when you work with fathers. Take the time to explain how things may go awry and why babies sometimes refuse to nurse or have a hard time latching on properly. Give an explanation of why the steps that lead to proper positioning work the way they do. For example, you might ask a father to turn his head to the side and swallow to illustrate why a baby's whole body needs to face the mother's breast during nursing. Involve him by teaching him how to check that baby's tongue is cupped and visible when nursing after letting him know why this is important.

Fathers sometimes feel left out when so much attention is given to the mother and baby after birth. Suggest some ways for him to participate in caring for his baby while you talk with him about the importance of bonding. Many fathers, like many grandparents, feel that feeding is the ultimate way to show love and caring. Let the father know that rocking, walking, bathing, dressing and talking to baby are also ways to bond with and learn about his newborn. Remind him that he can be helpful to his wife when she needs to do other things or just needs a short break.

How Leaders Help
With information that includes why things are done, encouragement to actively participate in caring for baby and helping mother, and support for his efforts, even some of the most skeptical or critical fathers become allies in the breastfeeding experience. Yes, these same three words that describe what we do for mothers apply to fathers, too.

Make it a point to let a father know that we are available for questions or concerns that come up in the future. You can also give him information about LLL meetings for fathers or couples in the community, if available. With a resource to contact, he'll know that he, as part of the breastfeeding family, has a continued source of support if and when he needs one. With the information and ideas the father has gleaned from you, he, in turn, can be a source of support for his wife and a protector against dissenting friends or family as she breastfeeds their baby.

There are times when working with a father can be uncomfortable. Most of the time, explanations and solutions that involve the father help diffuse any tension. At times there may be a difference of opinion or a personality conflict. In that case, you need to remain calm as well as clear about your job as a Leader. The parents can be referred back to their health care provider if one or both of them choose not to have you assist. As in all situations in which we help, the parents must be the ones to choose what they feel is right for themselves and their family.

LLL Leaders usually offer mother-to-mother help. However, by including the father, we ultimately give the nursing couple a greater chance for a satisfying breastfeeding experience and increase breastfeeding knowledge in the whole of society.

How to Make a Nursing Bra

Now that I've made the wonderful decision to stay at home and take care of DD, my budget has taken a hit. As I was nursing at home last night, I came up with the idea of making my own nursing bra.

I am a 34E and using a 36 size sports bra did the trick. I hope it can help some of you mom's out there!

Steps1. Take an old sports bra and cut a long slit in the front (where the cleavage is) from the top to the start of the elastic at the bottom ( don't cut through the bottom elastic!!!).

2. Finish the 2 edges of the cut slit.

3. On one side attach a hook and on the other side, the loop.

4. You have made your own nursing bra!

Tips* This bra is for wearing at home

* it is easy to open but hard to fasten back Things You'll Need

* Cotton sports bra (hanes or such)

* Hook and Loop

* Thread and needle

* Sissors

* Time

Most Expensive Lingerie 2006

In a quainter age, women's underclothes were often referred to as "unmentionables." They were buried beneath long skirts and numerous petticoats, and the merest peek at them (or peep about them) was considered an utter scandal.

These days, lingerie is not only very mentionable but is visible on everyone from rock stars to desperate housewives. And Super Bowl halftime shows aside, often the sight of a black bra strap or the edge of bustier is not accidental. In fact, fashion designers often create clothes that intentionally reveal a little lace or a glimpse of silk.

In a post-Madonna age, the point is not to shock--unless we're talking prices. Top-shelf lingerie may be airy and insubstantial, but it comes at a hefty cost. Agent Provocateur's Abracadabra lacy bra, panty, garter and bodysuit set will set a buyer back $670. C. Gilson, a European company that hand-embellishes its goods, sells a silk bra, panties, chemise and robe set for well over $2,600. And if you've spent a fortune on your underwear, you probably want more than a bedfellow to get a glimpse.

Americans are still getting used to buying lingerie the way European women do, says Geraldine Nuval, owner of the San Francisco lingerie boutique, My Boudoir.

"We think basic and not very pretty, whereas in Europe you look pretty from underneath to the outside," says Nuval, who hunts down unique designs for her shop. "So Americans don't spend as much money as Europeans do."

That's why the bulk of the intimate-apparel industry's revenue doesn't come from the sale of $100 garter belts, but from the simpler and cheaper items sold at mass-market stores, such as Wal-Mart Stores (nyse: WMT - news - people ) and Target (nyse: TGT - news - people ). According to NPD Group, a market research firm based in Port Washington, N.Y., the intimate-apparel industry grossed $9.6 billion in 2005, up 3.8% from $9.2 billion in 2004.

Catriona MacKechnie, a Scottish-born lace enthusiast who owns an eponymous lingerie boutique in New York City's Meatpacking District, feels that American women need to take a lesson from the Europeans and wear more beautiful underthings.

"We're trying to change the way American women wear lingerie," she says. "It's supposed to make you feel beautiful, even if no one knows you're wearing it."

The allure of better-than-basic lingerie is clearly stimulating sales. In 2005, The Limited's (nyse: LTD - news - people ) lingerie chain, Victoria's Secret, brought in $4.2 billion in sales--45% of the company's total. Warnaco (nasdaq: WRNC - news - people ) is one of the leading marketers of swimwear and bras in the world, yet despite its diverse portfolio of products, which includes Calvin Klein, Olga, Warner's, JLO Lingerie and many other labels, its intimate apparel lines only generated annual sales of $588 million in 2004.

Maybe that's because when well-heeled clients come to places like La Petite Coquette in New York City, they are not just looking for fine-quality garments but for a personalized experience.
"We've been changing things for 27 years," says La Petite Coquette owner Rebecca Apsan. "Our lingerie is for women who have taste and want to feel good. You can't feel good in lingerie that's scratchy or tight--it's in the way it's made that makes a piece good or not."

Shopping for intimates can be a touch intimidating for both sexes--not just for men who want to give a gift that keeps on giving. Fortunately, most boutiques offer registries that allow women to pick out and list the items they like, along with their measurements.

"Every person that comes in, we find out their size. Men don't have to worry, because we have the information saved in the computer," says Apsan.

For inspiration, skim through our list of some of the loveliest and most luxurious offerings available. Sure, the best of see-through silk doesn't come cheap--but sometimes, you have to pay a little something to get a little nothing.

WORLD MOST EXPENSIVE BRA

What is the most expensive bra in the world?

Well, we showed you the longest bra so how about the most expensive.

Every year Victoria's Secrets offers a one of a kind creation from Mouawad's.

The bras are made from thousands of diamond with usually on very large diamond in the center.
The 2002 version called 'Red Hot Fantasy' contains 1,300 diamond and rubies valued at an whopping $15 million USD.

Bras Men Like

What bras do men want to see you in?

I asked my guy.

He said a bra that is easy to take off. Bras that look like lingerie. Black bras. I wasn't satisfied with the answer.

I gave him the unenviable job of going through lingerie catalogs to tell me which bras he finds sexiest.

The verdict.

Strapless bras. A huge surprise to me as I thought these were purely functional. Worn to avoid tiresome straps under tube tops, off shoulder tops or strapless outfits.

His rationale. He just finds strapless bras very sexy. A huge turn on. The simplicity catches his eye. No messy strings. Bare shoulders which he simply loves. Most importantly, they look really easy to take off.

Next in line is the lace bra. That is because lace bras are very beautiful. That I agree with him. Lace bras are very pretty.

In 3rd place is the push up bra.
This one is obvious. Push up bras make your breasts look much bigger. These padded bras add inches to your bustline. The Gel filled bras really boost a girl's assets. A way to get that cleavage without resorting to surgery.

He was saying for girls who really want to turn on the men, go for these 3 types of bras. These are the ones that leave men wanting more.

I do know the kind of bras he simply hates. The fussy types with multiple hooks, the cotton granny type of bra with thick ugly straps that are popular only because of comfort and anything that makes breasts look smaller. In other words, don't waste your time with minimizer bras.
So if you want to dress for your men, what you wear underneath counts too.

Instant Breast Lift In Less Than 5 Minutes

Recently, Nanotechnology is applied on a jungle root - kwao kreu that grows in the north of Thailand, believed to enlarge the breasts of women who take it. Firms from Japan, Germany and the United States have been conducting research into the kwao kreu root, a source in Thailand's Agriculture Department told Bangkok Post.

What's Nanotechnology?

As part of the FY 2004 Budget, President Bush requested $849 million for nanotechnology R&D across all of the agencies that participate in the NNI. This represents an increase of approximately 10% over the amount appropriated by Congress for FY 2003.

The 2005 budget request that President Bush has sent to Congress calls for a total NNI budget of $982 million, which represents a 2% increase over estimated expenditures for FY 2004.

Government Agencies involved, include, NSF, DOD, DOE, HHS(NIH), DOC(NIST), NASA, USDA, EPA, DHS(TSA) and DOJ.

To put it simply,

Nanotechnology is the invention of small particles in Nano-size that does amazing things where normal size particles are unable to. It has the capacity to penetrate deep down into the skin layer while the core of the particle is being protected while carrying variety of substances to pass into the inner skin layer. This effective mechanism will target directly to the skin organ which will result in gaining the most benefit from the composition.

White kwao kreu which belongs to the family guminosae, subfamily Papilionoideae or the soy, bean & pea subfamily, known as Pueraria Mirifica or Kwao Kreu? or ?Kwao Kreu Kao? (white Kwao Kao), which are commonly found in the north, the west and the northeast of Thailand at the altitude of 300 to 800 metres above sea level.

Woman in the rural communities of Thailand have used this tuberous roots effectively as rejuvenating folk medicine for well over a hundreds years before it become well known and received much attention from Thai and foreign scientist, especially the Japanese.

Most of the kwao kreu processed by the Japanese are made into medicines and cosmetics commonly used for improving the skin, hair and firming the breasts.

This herb is known to ...

- Grow hair, strengthen and darken existing ones

- Help improve complexion and remove wrinkles

- Improves eyesight

- Increase energy and vigor leading to more reflexive body movements

- Including breast enhancement.

What Makes Pueraria Mirifica The Best Phytoestrogen?

"Miroestrol and Deoxymiroestrol " is very different from other phytoestrogen, as it posses highest estrogenic activity among the known phyto-estrogens due to structural similarity to estradial, (Estradiol is the main human estrogen which can be found in all women who are at the stage of nursing baby (Lactating); as you may notice that all women who are in this stage, their breast will enlarge and gain firmness for feeding purpose.

Miroestrol and Deoxymiroestrol Can Only Be Found In Pueraria Mirifica!

But not every Pueraria Mirifica are created equal, they varies from species to species and the growing conditions.

There are more than 13 species of Pueraria Mirifica and most of them are called "Pueraria Mirifica? or ?Kwao Krua Kao" but this doesn?t mean that they are the same, they may look same in the appearance but they produce different results.

The only way to differentiate their difference is to measure the amount of Miroestrol and Deoxymiroestrol contain inside the roots of Pueraria Mirifica. An elaborate and expensive test need to be carry out in specialized laboratory to certify the actual amount of Miroestrol and Deoxymiroestrol found in any specific type of Pueraria Mirifica. And not many company would sent their Pueraria Mirifica for such stringent test. Majority of the Pueraria Mirifica products found in the market are made from roots collected from villagers in the forests. And these villagers will be the ones that do the peeling, grinding, and the drying in their homes. Nobody can assure the sanitation, the quality and the amount of Miroestrol found in these Pueraria Mirifica powder.

Many foreign companies who have long settled in Thailand even open small shops to purchase the plant from villagers. If such practices is not stop, it would soon result in extinction of the plant because villagers would think of nothing but money.

Breastfeeding Is More Than Just Food

While the breastfeeding process exists to nourish a newborn and to provide everything that it needs to grow, breastfeeding is much more than food for a baby. The entire breastfeeding process provides significant benefits for both the baby and the mother.

1. Breast Milk Is A Living Substance
Babies do not have a fully functioning immune system until they are one year old. For the first year of life, a breastfeeding mother actually provides the immune response for a baby who is exposed to a cold or flu. If a baby were to suffer a cold, his mother would immediately start to increase her white blood cell production to counteract the bacteria or virus whether or not she experiences the baby’s symptoms. The baby would get these doses of immunity through breast milk. Breast milk contains many white blood cells (the blood cells that fight bacteria, viruses and parasites) and because of them, breast milk can actually sit on a countertop for 8 hours and be perfectly safe to drink.

2. Breastfeeding Improves Health
The proteins, carbohydrates and fatty acids in breast milk provide everything that a baby needs to grow strong bones, muscles and tissues. All of these components of breast milk exist in perfect proportion to a growing baby’s needs. Breast milk proteins are easily digested and breastfed babies feed often to build up their mother’s milk supply. The fatty acids found in breast milk help to support the growth of the baby’s brain and nervous system. The carbohydrates (or sugars) found in breast milk provide energy for the baby to play and interact with her world.

Breastfeeding provides great health benefits for the mother after birth, it helps to contract the uterus back to its pre-pregnant state. Mothers who breastfeed for longer periods of time experience less breast or uterine cancer later on in life.

3. Breastfeeding Promotes The Bonding and Attachment Process.
The hormone oxytocin stimulates the let down reflex when a baby starts to breastfeed; however, the role of oxytocin is not just for breastfeeding. In fact, oxytocin is called the hormone of love. Our bodies release high doses of oxytocin during the infatuation stage of love which creates the wonderful high that we experience when we first fall for someone. Breastfeeding creates this same feeling of infatuation every time a mother breastfeeds her baby. These continual doses of oxytocin enhance the bonding and attachment process to securely attach the mother/baby pair.

A Critical Period to Establish Breastfeeding
We all know that breast milk is best for babies. However, there is a vulnerable time for both the mother and the baby for the first month after birth as they learn to breastfeed. Some babies learn easily, others take their time. If a baby is continually fussy during this process a new mother can interpret the fussiness to mean that the baby has a specific problem with her, and that can influence her decision whether or not to keep trying.

With a calmer baby, there is a greater chance that the mother will continue to breastfeed, which helps to create a more bonded mother and infant and a relatively peaceful home life. With the reduction of crying and fussiness, the relationship between the mother and father is less strained in the transitional year to becoming a family, and that helps to bond the family unit more easily.

The Reason Behind The Baby’s Crying
When a baby fusses or cries, especially in the evening, the problem is usually that the baby is experiencing an adverse reaction to something that the mother is eating. If a breastfeeding mother can alter her diet on a short-term basis, the baby usually calms down and the breastfeeding process becomes easier for both mother and baby.

The main food source that a breastfeeding mother eats that causes babies discomfort are cow’s milk proteins. Small amounts of cow’s milk proteins end up in breast milk and can cause the baby to experience either food hypersensitivities or food intolerances. The resulting symptoms are gas, bloating, discomfort and crying. (Sound familiar?

Latest Bra Design

Put Some Dazzle In Your Lingerie Today

Lingerie is not just for the guys, it’s for the women too! As a woman, we want the very best undergarments out there.We want the hottest, sexiest little number that feels like melted butter next to our skin. And to top it off, we want it to slim our tummy, lift our tush and enhance our bust line! That’s not asking for too much, is it?So first of all, we want something soft.

Velvet, silk, and satin ranks high on the softness scale.Today’s lingerie is more than just panties and bras. If you aren’t that familiar with the different styles available in lingerie, here’s a quick guide to help you navigate your way through the lingerie shop.

Chemise is a straight gown that skims the body. These can be comfortable and sexy hugging you in all the right places.A babydoll gown is a short gown that fits around the bust and flares towards the hemline. The babydoll gown is perfect for showing off those legs!To display a little more cleavage, try a bustier. A bustier is a strapless elongated bra that provides extra lift.Camisoles are sleeveless tops with matching undies that can be worn under a jacket. Camisoles are great for showing off those toned arms.

Very sexy!A negligee is a loose, sheer gown normally accompanied with panties and a matching sheer robe. Very nice for that special night with your sweetie.A teddy is a one-piece bodysuit.Tap pants are soft, very short versions of boxer shorts.And, of course, there is the thong. The thong provides frontal coverage with a thin strap in the back. Thongs are perfect when you don’t want any panty lines.You are intelligent, funny and on your way to being a “woman of the world”! And to project confidence your undergarments should be just as sexy and fashionable as your outward appearance.

When confidence oozes from you, the whole world will know that you have arrived and are ready to conquer the world! The most important thing to remember is to have fun and be comfortable. Intimates are also available in casual styles like tank tops, p.j.’s and bikinis.

About the Author:Bridget Allen has worked for many years in the fashion industry, at a senior level, and she has written an amazing totally free fashionista minicourse that will thrill, entertain, and most importantly educate you about what you absolutely need to know about fashion. Get the free course " Fashionista Essentials" now at http://www.i-stylish.com

Isis Breast Enhancement And Other Companies

By the end of this article, you should have gained enough new knowledge on this subject to be able to explain its main points to another person.In the early days of January 2003, the central Trade Commission (FTC) prepared the crowd which sold the Isis breast enhancement procedure to refund 22 million dollars to forlorn Isis customers. Not only did Isis apparently crash to enlarge and progress most women's breasts, as it had claimed, but it also resulted in many side effects. though Isis breast enhancement advertised that it was side-effect free, it in detail led to hundreds of complaints of sickness and headaches, as well as allergic reactions.It's important to keep in awareness that Isis is only one product, and a weak one at that.

The FTC found Isis to be a highly-flawed produce which futile to converge its claims. However, many other herbal breast enhancers and enlargement pills really do work. These pills stimulate breast tumor by stimulating the glands of the breast, via the prostaglandins. This is a safe, helpful method for enlarging and firming breasts.If you are interested in retail pills that progress the size, feel or character of your breasts, do so with common sense. First of all, read as many reviews as you can about each product.

One website might say outcome A is modestly the best, while hundreds of other sites might argue that outcome B is superior. An overview of different reviews should create an accurate picture.As we take the journey through the final part of this article, you can look back at the first part if you need any clarifications on what we have already learned.Next, make sure any pill you buy comes with a money back guarantee. If you don't think the pills are effective for you, arrival them. There are admirable pills out there which are sincerely effective, so don't let one ineffective produce turn you off of all the helpful ones.Try searching for a particular keyword from the title of this article on your search engine and you are sure to find a wealth of knowledge.

Anchalee Saechin is the webmaster of the natural breast enlargement, enhancement, and healthcare product review and advice website http://www.nano-breast-enlargement.com/ - providing information on alternative breast care for women seeking more beautiful and healthy breasts.

Bra Frustration

I remember the times I would go shopping for Bras (especially during a sale) and when I got to the store, they either didn’t have my size or the clerk would say, " sorry but we just sold out".

Yeah sure.
And please don’t mention Lingerie and Girdles!
Mine you, I could have went for the stuff in the back on the cheap isle, but why pay for something that will make you miserable and uncomfortable because of poor quality. Sure, I would save a buck or two, but I couldn’t see myself continuing to be uncomfortable all day due to something I hadn’t come to buy in the first place.

I decided that enough was enough and I was going to go online and find what I was looking for.
With gas prices being as high as they are, running all over town was now out of the question. I figured I could sit back in front of my computer, have a cup of coffee and relax a little.

There were three things that I need to do before I started my online journey. The first was to measure my full bust, under my bust and upper bust. These measurements also apply if you enjoy driving all over town.

Yes I said measure! It only takes a few minutes and you’ll be confident that you have your correct size in the event your girly figure has changed a little.

I went online and found the quality, price and most important... correct fit I was searching for.
Ladies, never settle for less. Take your measurements and find the price, quality and comfort you desire online.

Have a cup of coffee, tea or whatever and enjoy the Bra delights you can find on the Internet.

Is Giving Exotic Lingerie An Expression Of Love Or Lust?

It has become increasingly popular for couples to give lingerie as a gift, especially when you want to spice up your love life or turn the heat up a few notches. So, is giving lingerie an expression of love or lust? Or both? When a relationship has become more comfortable and you want to take it to a whole new level, giving not just lingerie but sexy lingerie can definitely make your relationship more interesting and exciting.

Sexy lingerie is provocative, attractive and extremely appealing to the senses, especially for men. Men get turned on very easily by anything that is visually stimulating. Lingerie if chosen and worn correctly can titillate the senses and drive your partner wild! So, sexy lingerie is a sure way to get your partner fired up and coming back for more.

There are many types of lingerie in the market today. Different types of lingerie can be worn for different occasions. I would personally favor exotic lingerie that are a little bit more unique in design, instead of the common usual stuff that you get at conventional lingerie stores. I would suggest that you try to choose something that is creatively designed and bold, so that you can make a great lasting impression on your partner. Let your intimate moments be so memorable that it will make every encounter special.

One of the most popular styles of exotic lingerie in the market today is the sexy thong. The sexy thong first hit the market in the 80’s and become mainstream in the 90s. In recent years, it has become one of the fasting growing categories in the lingerie industry.

A few years back, it was highly fashionable for women to wear loose, low cut jeans with a thong inside, together with clothes that showed the mid-rift. The thong and a little of the ladies’ upper buttocks would be purposely exposed by the drooping jeans or pants. This was an extremely sexy and fashionable way to dress just a few years ago.

You can find out more about sexy thongs, exotic lingerie and romantic dating ideas at http://www.1sexythong.com/

Many of you will have heard of Paget's Disease, which is a serious bone disease, but many of you will not have heard of Paget's Disease of the breast, so I am hoping that the ladies out there reading this article will take notice of the content, because they could come in touch with this disease at some time in their life.

What Is Paget's Disease Of The Breast?

It is an eczema type change in the skin of the nipple, and most women that develop it, will have an underlying breast cancer. Paget's Disease occurs in about 1 or 2% of women that have breast cancer, it appears firstly as a scaly, red rash affecting the nipple and the areola. It can be very sore, may bleed and it will not go away. The disease can be difficult to diagnose, because it can be very similar to other skin problems like eczema or dermatitis, but this disease usually affects the nipple first then spreads to the areola, whereas the other skin problems usually start in the surrounding areas, first before spreading to the nipple. I have been asked to include the following in this article, it is taken from an actual case, where the person with the disease wanted this message passed on by you, to all the ladies in your life, Mothers, Daughters, Sisters, Aunts and Friends. "A lady developed a rash on her breast, similar to that of young mothers who are nursing. Because her mammogram had been clear, the doctor treated her with antibiotics for infections. After two treatments it continued to get worse, her doctor sent her for another mammogram, and this time it showed a mass. A biopsy found a fast growing malignancy.

Chemotherapy was started in order to shrink the growth; then mastectomy; then a full round of Chemotherapy; followed by radiation treatment. After about 9 months of intense treatment, she was given a clean bill of health. She had one year of living each day to its fullest. Then the cancer returned to the liver area. She took four treatments and decided that she wanted quality of life, not the after effects of Chemotherapy. She had 5 great months, and she planned each detail of the final days. After just a few days of needing morphine, she slipped away saying she had done what God had sent her into the world to do.

" PLEASE be alert to any thing that is not normal. Her message is shown below: "Paget's Disease: This is a rare form of breast cancer, and is on the outside of the breast, on the nipple and areola. It appeared as a rash, which later became a lesion with a crusty outer edge. I would not have ever suspected it to be breast cancer, but it was. My nipple never seemed any different to me, but the rash bothered me, so I went to the doctor for that. Sometimes, it itched and was sore, but other than that it didn't bother me. It was just ugly and a nuisance, and could not be cleared up with all the creams prescribed by my doctor and dermatologist for the dermatitis on my eyes just prior to this outbreak. They seemed a little concerned. Mine started out as a single red pimple on the areola. One of the biggest problems with Paget's disease of the nipple is that the symptoms appear to be harmless. It is frequently thought to be a skin inflammation or infection, leading to unfortunate delays in detection and care. What are the symptoms? The symptoms include: A persistent redness, oozing, and crusting of your nipple causing it to itch and burn. (As I stated, mine did not itch or burn much, and had no oozing I was aware of, but it did have a crust along the outer edge on one side.) A sore on your nipple that will not heal. (Mine was on the areola area with a whitish thick looking area in center of nipple). Usually only one nipple is affected. How is it diagnosed? Your doctor will do a physical exam and should suggest having a mammogram of both breasts, done immediately. Even though the redness, oozing and crusting closely resembles dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), your doctor should suspect cancer if the sore is only on one breast. Your doctor should order a biopsy of your sore to confirm what is going on. This message should be taken seriously and passed on to as many of your relatives and friends as possible; it could save someone's life My breast cancer has spread and metastasized to my bones after receiving mega doses of chemotherapy, twenty eight treatments of radiation and taking Tamaxofin. If this had been diagnosed as breast cancer in the beginning, perhaps it would not have spread".

TO ALL READERS: This is sad as women are not aware of Paget's disease. As we all know, early diagnosis is so important with all kinds of diseases, so if you are in any doubt about any medical problem, for goodness sake, make an appointment to see a Physician, soon as possible. If you would like to see more health information, that can help you, Please visit my web site.

Good Girls Guide To Buying Lingerie

With the popularity of Lingerie boutiques in shopping malls across America the stigma of buying and wearing lingerie is now a thing of the past. However for women whoe never bought lingerie before or are still a little shy about visiting a store here our guide for styles you are likely to encounter.

Baby Doll Set

A baby doll set encompasses a large category of lingerie items.

Basically it a two piece set, consisting of a robe or loose billowy top and matching bottom. The top is always loose fitting and comes in just below the bust line, like an empire bodice. The top is very loose fitting and short, ending at or just below your rear. Baby doll sets are available in wide variety of fabrics from silk and satin to sheer lace.

Chemise

A chemise is a short flowing A-line gown that longer than a baby doll. The top usually has spaghetti or halter straps. The angular shape of a chemise looks good on almost every figure type. If you are concerned about your mid-section look for a style that has built in figure control. Sometimes a chemise comes with a matching bottom, but this varies from style to style. The fabric choices range from patterned and solid silks to very revealing lace, so there is something for everyone taste.

Camisole

A camisole is female undershirt. It is loose fitting and has thin spaghetti straps that go over the shoulder. It usually paired with a matching bottom. Camisoles are now also available as outwear. While they are not usually worn as formal office attire, they can be worn for casual occasions.

Corset

A corset is the opposite of a camisole. It a structured garment that has bones or ribs to force your body into certain proportions. The effects of a corset can be very dramatic, and can create a very enticing curvy shape. Some corsets are more difficult to wear than others, depending on how much shaping they are doing. If youe never worn one before choose something that not so difficult to get into. Corsets are also now being made as outwear. While not something you would wear to the office, they are perfect for a dinner party, club or night on the town.

Bridal Set

A bridal set or merry widow as it sometimes known also covers a wide variety of items. Basically it a set that consists of a bra, corset or camisole top. It also has matching panties, and usually a garter belt and stockings. The styles range from silk or satin sets with full coverage to skimpy string sets with very minimal overage.

Boy Shorts

If youe never heard of boy shorts think of sexy hot pants for your bedroom. They offer full coverage on the sides and some coverage on your rear. Conservative styles cover most if not all of your rear, the more daring styles give you partial coverage. Boy shorts are figure hugging or shaping, something those of us with less than perfect bodies will appreciate. They come in wide variety of fabric choices from comfortable cotton to see through lace.

Bikini

Bikini bottoms offer full coverage on your rear, and have thin straps on the side. They are available in loose fitting of figure hugging styles in a wide variety of fabric choices. Thong A thong offers full to minimal coverage in the front, and has thin sides usually 1?to ? in width that come to a t shape in the rear. The t-shape gives you practically no coverage on your rear. Thongs are now worn just as frequently outside of the bedroom as they are in it. If you are wearing tight, or figure hugging clothing a thong is your best solution to combat visible panty line. Cotton, lycra or micro-fiber fabrics are the most comfortable for extended wear thongs.

G-String

While the back of a thong has very minimal coverage with a narrow strip a g-string offers you no coverage, with a simple single strand or string, usually 1/8?or less in width, not for the faint of heart.

Garter Belt

A garter belt is made of piece of fabric that wraps around your hips and usually has four straps (one for the front and back of each leg). Sometimes the straps are attached to the lower edge of a corset or camisole top. These straps attach to the top of stockings, holding them up. The proper way to wear a garter belt is to attach the stockings first, then put on your panties. While this may look strange youl understand why the first time you need to visit the bathroom. ?Lingerie.6ln.com, All Rights Reserved. About the author:This article was written by Christine McClinden of http://lingerie.6ln.comwhich features women fashion items including lingerie, and shoes.

Choosing The Correct Sports Bra

Sports bras are intended to provide support, motion control, and a snug fit for the breasts during exercise or sports. The right sports bra for an individual means purchasing one that is the best fit for your comfort requirements and support, accurately fits your bust size, and matches your level of activity. A proper fit is important in order to obtain the maximum in comfort and motion control during exercise.

Many women do not know how to choose the proper bra size, and as a result are wearing ill-fitting bras. To prevent this from happening, measure around your chest, under the arms, and just above the breasts. If your chest measurement is an odd number, round it up to the next even number. To fit the cup size, measure around the fullest part of your bus, and if it is in between numbers, round it up or down to the nearest whole number. The cup size is based on the difference between the chest measurement and the bust measurement with a 1" difference being an "A" cup and a 5" difference being a "DD" cup.

Since sports bras support the breasts and minimize the motion of them during exercise, it's important to find a bra that provides enough support for your level of activity. Most sports bras are rated by level of activity, and should be purchased based on that. The higher the impact of the activity, the more support that you need while you are performing that activity.

There are a variety of styles from which to choose, but it's more important to look for the proper fit and support first, and then look for the style you want within that area. You must concern yourself with fit and capability before you worry about the style. Look at it as you would if you were a waitress buying a pair of comfortable shoes because it is similar in that a waitress wearing ill-fitting shoes stands to cause damage to her back and legs, and an athlete or someone who exercises frequently can cause the delicate ligaments in the breast to stretch with an ill-fitting sports bra.

Shopping For The Right Bra Size

Shopping for a bra can be a long and painful task for many women. There are many bras to chose from and many women don't know which style, and more importantly size, is right for them.

When shopping for a bra, finding the right size is vital; it is estimated that about 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size. To make sure the bra you are buying is the correct size, watch for the following signs.

You should measure the width of your chest just below your breasts (on your ribs) before buying a bra. Take this number and add five inches to it. This will tell you what band size you should be trying on. For example, if you measure 31 inches around, you should be trying on a 36 sized bras. If you're number ends up being odd, go to the next size up. If you are "plus sized", you don't have to add these five inches.

To find your correct cup size, have someone measure around the fullest part of your breasts. You should not wear a padded bra while doing this. Then take this number and subtract it from your rib measurement. This will tell you your cup size.

Negative difference - AA
1 inch - A 2 inch - B 3 inch - C 4 inch - D 5 inch - DD or E 6 inch - DDD or F 7 inch - DDDD or G

If your bra fits correctly, it should be snug around the middle, but still be able to fit one or two fingers under the band comfortably. If you can't do this, the bra is too tight. If the band comes away from your body very easily or the band rides up your back, the bra is too big. If you are wearing an under wire bra, the wire should lay flat across your chest. Whereas if you are wearing a bra with no under wire, it should separate your breasts so it doesn't look like you have one big boob. You should also look for the tightness of the bra on the breast. The breast should fill the cup perfectly. If your breast is lower than the cup, the cup is too big, but on the other hand, you don't want to be spilling out of the cup either. If your breasts are popping out on the sides, top or bottom, the bra is too small. If the band feels fine, just go up a cup size. When shopping for a bra, try raising your arms over your head- the bra should stay in place and not lift off of your chest. If it does this, its too big.

If you follow these tips, your next shopping trip for bras should be more enjoyable. Try on all different styles of bras to see which kind suits you best. Also, never rush while shopping for bras. Pay attention to how they look and feel to make sure you buy the perfect fit.

Using Lingerie To Boost Confidence

Ladies, I don't care who you are or what you think you look like; you are as sexy as you feel! Take a look in the mirror and tell yourself you are sexy. Lingerie can go a long way towards amplifying this feeling for you, especially when you wear it at work under your work clothes. Just imagine what that co-worker would think if he knew you had something naughty on underneath.

When you are buying lingerie for work it doesn't have to be just practical old fashioned lingerie. Who says you can't wear a thong to work? My wife does! It's all up to you, pick things that make you feel good and it will help boost your confidence and self esteem.

There are some considerations however, such as not over emphasizing areas in which you are well endowed. For example, if you are large up top, you don't want to buy push up bras and the like that will make them look even bigger! These are for girls that are more envious of you! If you are the opposite and need a little help, this type of bra will do the trick and help you look fuller in the cleavage area.

Remember, I mentioned thongs earlier? The reason my wife wears thongs to work is because they don't give you that visible panty line look. That is so unattractive; you want to avoid it at all costs. Wear thongs or g-strings or if you don't feel comfortable in those types then wear the longer silk or satin underwear that will still give you the look of no panty lines.

Don't worry about what other people think when you are shopping for lingerie for yourself, this is all about you. If you are a plus size girl and you like wearing super sexy lingerie under your work clothes, that's your business! Do what makes you feel good.

When it comes to choosing materials, remember sheer is a very thin material and usually see through, I would recommend a satin or lace finish. Of course it all depends on what you are after and the reason you are buying the lingerie, you may want it to be see through!

With the advent of the internet you can now shop online. For those who may be a little embarrassed or apprehensive about buying a particular type of lingerie, you can now order from the convenience of home and no one knows but you! Give it a try; you may never go into a physical lingerie store again.

Bra and panties shopping

When it comes time for shopping for intimates like bra and panties, it can be a little embarrassing for some. There are lingerie stores that have a great selection for everyone. The only problem with this is that some women do not like to shop in front of other woman. It can be hard for them to let loose and pick out sexy items like this to wear in private or for someone else. There are so many styles to look at when shopping for bra and panties. You can find soft and sophisticated looks for the more conservative woman and there are others that will knock anyone's socks off. There is fun and exciting looks that will make any woman feel great in and have any man begging for mercy.

There are colors like white, black, red and even fun and bold patterns to choose from. There are wild animal prints and even soft pastel designs to feel attractive in. No matter what mood a woman is in, they will be able to match it with their bra and panties that they are wearing underneath.

Giving a great, set of bra and panties for wedding shower gift is a great idea. You will get a lot of fun by giving one of these hot and exciting sets to a future bride. She will get a lot of great use out of it and it will get the party off to a great start.

Although there are many lingerie stores to shop at, many people prefer to shop online for these bra and panties. Some women feel more comfortable shopping from their own home for these intimate items. When it comes time for a man to buy there special someone a sexy outfit like this, they will also feel more at ease shopping online. It is quick, easy, and very confidential.

When shopping online for these things, there is often a great selection to choose from and a range of all sizes. There will be something for everyone and it does not have to be embarrassing. The items are usually shipped within a few days. Most of the shops online come with a great return policy as well. If something does not fit or look right, a woman can return them full a refund or exchange. It is easy and a lot of fun at the same time.

Getting fun and sassy bra and panty sets are always a great way to boost a woman's self esteem. It is always a good way to put a little excitement into a relationship. It will be some thing that both partners can benefit from. It will add some flair and fun to the relationship and put the heat back it where it belongs. www.bestbraandpantie.com

Fascinating Facts!!!

Breast sizes across Europe are growing. The average size has gone from a 34B to a 36C over the past 10 years.

Twenty years ago a DD cup was unusual. - now G cups are not uncommon. Changing diet and the Pill are the culprits.

Bra-wearers are getting younger. Twenty years ago, 12 and 13 year olds were bought teen bras, now eight and nine year olds are taking the plunge

Today the biggest selling colour is white, while ivory and cream come a close second. Tea rose was a hot favourite from the Twenties right through to the Fifties.

In 1971 skin tones were bestsellers and were second favourites until about 5 years ago.
About 20% of sales are on fashion colours - watch out for.....

Higher numbers of separations, divorces and remarriages have boosted the demand for attractive lingerie.

lingerie care

Ideally, your bra should be washed every day, by hand. This will remove body oils, preserve the colour of your bra and lengthen its life.

If you have 2 bras and wear them in turn, washing each one after a day’s wear, they should last for 3 months. Splitting the wear between four bras should mean that they will last for six months, whilst a ‘special occasion bra’, such as black bra or a strapless bra, will obviously last much longer.

Never put bras in a clothes dryer. Air dry only.

I need a corset which is tighter on my waist and thighs. What should I do?

The solution is not to get a smaller size corset but to get one which has a higher control factor and offers you more support at your correct size.

I have difficulty finding a good fitting bra because one of my breasts is larger than the other. What can I do ?

This is a very usual phenomenon although in many cases the difference between the breasts is not noticeable. You can try fabrics, such as our microfibres, which have more elasticity and are therefore more accomodating. Adjusting one of the straps, so that the strap of the larger bust is looser, will also help.

Should I wear a corset ?

Corsets are designed to help the muscles in holding back the abdominal organs, pulling the ‘tummy’ in and ‘the seat’ down, and so keeping a healthy condition and at the time giving a good appearance.

Child bearing, illness, surgical operations, and just bad habits of letting the body ‘sag’ can all cause the abdominal muscles weaken. But correctly chosen corsetrie can give the support which the flabby muscles can no longer provide and prevent further damage from being done.
Remember though, that the purpose of corsets is not to restrict and not to prevent free movement of muscles or limbs; but to give support where needed and to enhance the work of the natural muscles

Is it better to wear a soft cup bra or an underwired bra ?

A: Whatever your size, underwired bras are the best for shape, support and lift : soft cup bras tend to push you down a little bit under the arm, particularly if you have a larger bust. For smaller busts, an underwire boosts your bustline, giving a better profile and shape, while for larger busts, the underwire is more supportive because you’re getting support from the wire as well as the straps. The other advantage of underwired bras is that even with delicate fabrics like lace you can still get good support and separation.

However, you should never wear an underwired bra when pregnant. This is because you expand under the bust and at the side where the wire lies and sooner or later it will start to dig into you. A specialist, supportive soft cup bra is recommended.

Bra Fit Tips

"Factory-made bras don't fit all body types the same," says Anna Castellani of the Bra Smyth, a New York City store/catalog that specializes in bra alterations and special orders. To find one suited just to you:

1. Forget your supposed cup size.
Don't discount the possibility that you may need to go up or down a cup. When you try on the bra, the fabric should not gap, flatten or squeeze you anywhere.

2. Leave yourself room to breathe.
"Most people are wider across the back than they realize," says Castellani. To ensure a comfy fit — as well as to prevent skin-pinching and back bulges — fasten the middle clasp, then check your rear view. Any sign of fabric strain means you need a larger band size.

3. Get wired (or not).
Underwires provide the most support for B-cups and above. (A-cups may get better shaping from a wireless, lightly lined or padded bra.) The wire should rest flat against your breastbone, and its tips should not poke you under the arms.

4. Stock up.
"When you do find a bra that fits, buy as many as you can afford so that you're not strapped if the style gets discontinued," says Castellani.

Bra Size

A bra size is made up of a number (in inches), determined by measuring around the body over the largest portion of the breasts (e.g. 34, 36, 38, etc.); and a letter, determined by measuring under the breasts, then calculating the difference between the two numbers (e.g. B, C, D, etc.). Examples of bra sizes would be 34B, 36C (the average size), 38D, etc. There are a few manufacturers that make bras up to a J cup. Beyond this cup size, bras usually have to be specially made.

Finding Your Bra Size

Your bra size is made up of 2 parts, your frame size and your cup size.
Step 1Put on your best fitting unpadded bra. Measure tightly around the body, directly under the bust, making sure the tape is straight across back.
This is your frame size.
Step 2Measure directly across fullest part of the bust--with arms at sides and standing erect. Make sure the tape is straight. Subtract your frame size from this second measurement.

This difference will determine your cup size.


If Measurement Difference is
Cup Size Is
up to 1" larger than frame size
A
up to 2" larger than frame size
B
up to 3" larger than frame size
C
up to 4" larger than frame size
D
up to 5" larger than frame size
DD
up to 6" larger than frame size
F
up to 7" larger than frame size
FF

The bra has enjoyed a colourful history

. They were allegedly invented by an American named Otto Titzling (wrong!) and burned by feminists in the 1960’s.The “over-shoulder-boulder-holder” is a necessary evil in many women’s lives…but who do we have to blame for this often uncomfortable, but ever-so-sexy piece of clothing?

2500 BC: Women on the island of Crete begin using bra-like garments to lift their bare breasts out of their clothing.

450BC – 285AD: Roman and Greek women preferred to play down their chests, using a band strapped around their breasts to reduce their bust size.

1550’s AD: Catherine de Médicis, wife of King Henri II of France enforces a ban on "thick waists" at court functions through the introduction of the steel corset. The corset becomes the main undergarment of support and restraint for women.

1850’s: US patents are registered for the first known bra-like garments.1

850’s: Corsets fall out of style for about 10 years.

1860’s: Corsets return to fashion. Corset "training" becomes the norm - reducing waists to such unhealthy levels that ribs and internal organs become deformed. This sparks controversy over the health risk of corseting.

1875: Designer Susan Taylor Converse creates a garment called the “Union Under-Flannel” from woollen fabric. The garment is different to previous items as it has no-bones, eyelets, laces or pulleys. The garment is patented by manufacturers George Frost and George Phelps.

1889: Corset-maker Herminie Cadolle invents a bra-like garment called "Bien-être" ('Well-Being'.) The garment supports the breasts by the shoulders rather than squeezing them up from below like a traditional corset.

1893: Marie Tucek patents the "Breast Supporter". This garment is similar to modern-day bras in that it features a separate pocket for each breast, shoulder straps, and hook-and-eye closures.

1907: The ever-hip Vogue magazine first uses the term "brassiere" in its haloed pages. The term comes from the old French word for 'upper arm'. Prior to this, bra-like devices were known by the French term "soutien-gorge", which means "throat support" or "breast support".

1912: The term "brassiere" first appears in the Oxford English Dictionary.

1912: Garment maker Otto Titzling is said to have develop a bra for buxom singer Swanhilda Olafsen. Swanhilda lived in the same New York boarding house as Otto, and needed a supporting garment. She was the inspiration for Otto's breakthrough design, but Otto neglected to patent his creation, and therefore lost his chance to be the inventor of the bra.

1913: The first modern bra to be patented was a silk hanky and pink ribbon affair created by New York socialite Mary Phelps Jacob. Mary had bought a sheer evening dress to wear to an event, and at the time, the only undergarment available to her was a corset made with whaleback bones. Mary found that the bones showed through the sheer fabric and created her DIY alternative.

1914: After a year of sharing her creation with friends, Mary Phelps Jacob applies for a patent (under the business name "Caresse Crosby") on November 3 for her "Backless Brassiere" design. Mary’s "brassiere" was very lightweight, soft, and separated the breasts naturally. Unlike Marie Tucek's 1893 design, Jacob's garment did not have cups to support the breasts, but flattened them instead. Jacob markets the "Backless Brassiere" garment until she tires of the business and sells the patent to Warner Brothers Corset Company in Bridgeport, Connecticut, for $1,500. Warner's reportedly made over $15 million over the next 30 years from the patent.

1914-1918: The outbreak of World War I forces women into the work-force. Many women begin working in factories and wearing uniforms, making the use of daily corset wear a problem.

1917: The U.S. War Industries Board requests women to stop buying corsets to reduce the consumption of metal. Sources say up to 28,000 tons of metal was conserved through this effort - "enough to build two battleships."

1918 : Corset-makers began making bras designed to flatten rather than enhance the breasts.

1920’s: Warner introduces a tight, chest-flattening bra, in keeping with the Flapper styles of the day.
1928: Ida Rosenthal, a Russian immigrant, and her husband William found Maidenform. Ida is responsible for the creation of bust size categories (cup sizes) and developed bras for every stage of life - puberty to maturity.

1930’s: The shortened form of the word "brassiere" - the "bra" becomes popular.

1930’s: Warner produces the first popular all-elastic bra, which shows off a woman's curves.

1935: Warner's creates the modern cup sizing system (A to D), which is soon adopted by all bra manufacturers.

1940: Padding was added to bra cups.

1941-1945: Common fabric materials (cotton, rubber, silk and steel) are in short supply, so manufacturers turn to synthetic fabrics.1946: The first bikini hits the catwalk introduced in Paris.

1950s: Strapless bras were introduced allowing women to wear off-the-shoulder dresses and still use a bra.

1959 : Warners and Du Pont produced Lycra which is now used in most bras.

1968: The infamous “bra-burning” occurred, but it didn’t quite involve busty feminists stripping off their bras to “free” themselves in a male dominated society. A group of women were protesting the 1968 Miss America pageant and threw bras, girdles, high heels, make up and hairspray into a rubbish bin as a symbol of their anger. They were protesting for the liberation of women in a male dominated society, and saw these objects as restrictive to their cause. The rubbish bin was set alight – hence the “bra-burning” reference.

1973: The first no-bounce sports bra was introduced.

Bra history

Women have always tried to enhance their female figures by squeezing themselves into restricting, uncomfortable garments. Waists have been reduced and bustlines have been increased, decreased, flattened or spread out, depending on what was fashionable.

Back in 2500 B.C., warrior Minoan women on the Greek isle of Crete began wearing a bra-resembling garment, shoving their bare breasts upward and out of their clothes! Greek and Roman women later wore a breast band, minimizing their chest size.

During the Renaissance Period, women stuffed the chest portions of their undergarments with silk pouches and hankies, binding them in place as well as could be expected to create an alluring bustline. Since there was nothing much to hold the pouches exactly where they should have been, there was a tendency for them to shift into laughable positions.

Marie Tucek patented the actual first 'breast supporter' in 1893. Her foundation garment was similar to the bras sold today, having pouches for the breasts to sit in.

Then in 1913, Mary Phelps Jacob of New York and her maid, Marie, devised a backless bra to be worn under a sheer evening gown. She made this from two handkerchiefs, some ribbon and cord and amazingly started getting orders for it that very night. Not willing to let loose of a good thing, Jabobs showed up at the patent office in 1914 with sketches to finalize her patent. Her invention was awarded the title 'Backless Brassiere'.

It should be noted that Jacob's brassiere design was intended to flatten the breasts and not enhance them. Her invention didn't even have cups.

Without publicity, her brassiere business was doomed to sag and Mary sold her company to Warner Brothers Corset Company for just $1,500!

Ida and William Rosenthal went into business as the Maidenform Company in the 1920's as a protest against the notorious flat-chested flapper girls of the Roaring 20's. Ida was the actual inventor of brassiere cups and designed bras for every female figure from budding teens to the mature matron.

You wouldn't expect to see a mention of billionaire Howard Hughes here, would you?
Hughes used his aeronautical engineering knowledge to take an unknown starlet, Jane Russell, and turn her into an overnight star. Hughes designed a bra that took Russell's chesty assets and put them fully in the face of all gawking America.

Century-Fox had cancelled the agreement for Hughes to allow them to release 'The Outlaw'. Critics that had already seen it were panning it left and right. Censors were having a fit about Jane's breasts being overexposed due to Hughes' wonderfully inventive brassiere improvements. Millions of dollars stood to be lost.

Hughes had all his managers start a chain reaction of calling ministers, women's clubs and housewives telling them about the 'lewd picture' Hughes was about to release starring Jane Russell. They responded by protesting and wildly trying to have the film banned -- just the publicity Hughes needed to turn around the entire profit system and have the most incredible publicity machine in full gear. It was the bra that saved Hollywood.

Over the years, other innovations have been added to the basic bra such as the use of uplifting elastic, uses of lace and other elastics within the fabric.

Recent developments have surfaced in the health field. Some researchers say that full-time bra wearers are 21 times more likely to develop breast cancer than their non-bra wearing counterparts. The reasoning behind this is limiting of the functioning of the lymphatic system and the decreased removal of toxins from the breasts. This study was sharply criticized for not taking into consideration lifestyle differences such as smoking, alcohol, weight, etc.

Statistics show the average American woman owns six bras. Out of those six, one of is a strapless bra and one is a color other than white.

Breast Cancer: A Pinch of Cancer - Can Wearing a Bra Kill You?by William Thomas

If you didn't burn yours in the 'Sixties, you might want to put it away now. "Bras cause breast cancer. It's open and shut," says medical researcher Syd Singer. The Singers became breast cancer sleuths in 1991. On the day Soma discovered a lump in her breast, the husband-wife team was studying the effects of Western medicine on Fijians. In the shower, Syd noticed that Soma's shoulders and breasts were outlined by dark red grooves. He remembered a puzzled Fijian woman asking his wife about her brassiere:"Doesn't it feel tight?" "You get used to it," Soma had replied.

Could bras be constricting breast tissue, Syd wondered, hampering lymph drainage and causing degeneration? Soma decided to stop wearing hers. But when Syd searched the medical literature he found no known causes of breast cancer, which rarely appears before a woman's mid-thirties, most often after 40. The highest death rates from breast cancer are in North America and northern Europe, with the developing world catching up fast. The World Health Organization calls chemical toxins the primary cause of cancer. But poisons accumulating in breast tissue are normally flushed by clear lymph fluid into large clusters of lymph nodes nestling in the armpits and upper chest. The Singers found that "because lymphatic vessels are very thin, they are extremely sensitive to pressure and are easily compressed." Chronic minimal pressure on the breasts can cause lymph valves and vessels to close.

" Less oxygen and fewer nutrients are delivered to the cells, while waste products are not flushed away," the Singers noted. After 15 or 20 years of bra-constricted lymph drainage, cancer can result. Looking at other cultures, Soma and Syd were struck by the low incidence of breast cancer in poorer nations awash in pesticides dumped by northern nations. They didn't find peasant women wearing push-up bras. Instead,they discovered that the Maoris of New Zealand, integrated into white culture, have the same rate of breast cancer, while Australia's marginalized aboriginals have virtually no breast cancer. The same trend held for "Westernized" Japanese, Fijians and other bra-converted cultures.

In Dressed To Kill: The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bras, the researchers also observed that just before a woman begins her period, estrogen floods her system, causing her breasts to swell. If she continues wearing the same bra size, life-saving lymphatics will be even more tightly squished. Had they found the "estrogen link" to breast cancer? Childless women never fully develop their breast-cleansing lymphatic system. Nor do women who have never breast-fed. Working women who wear bras every day and postpone having children could be at higher risk, the Singers warn.

Even worse, a young woman's coming of age is often "marked" by her First bra. Like the ancient Chinese practice of foot-binding, "breast-binding" at puberty can eventually lead to severe medical complications. Could bras be the "missing link" in a growing epidemic of breast cancer? Beginning in May, 1991, Soma and Syd Singer's 30-month "Bra and Breast Cancer" study interviewed some 4,000 women in five major US cities. All were Caucasian of mostly "medium income" ranging in age from 30 to 79. Half had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Almost all of the women interviewed were unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts. Women who chose a bra for appearance, ignoring soreness and swelling, had twice the rate of breast cancer of those who did not.

But the most startling statistic was that three out of four women who wore their daytime bras to sleep contracted breast cancer. So did one out of seven women strapped into a bra more than 12 hours a day. Bra-free women have just a one in 168 chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer, says Singer. The same as bra-free men.
"Don't sleep in your bra!" Syd Singer pleads. "Women who want to avoid breast cancer should wear a bra for the shortest period of time possible --certainly for less than 12 hours daily."Syd also submits that some 80% of bra-wearers who experience lumps, cysts and tenderness will see those symptoms vanish, "within a month of getting rid of the bra." Not everyone is ready to hang up her halter. As one woman told the team, "My breasts will sag all the way to my navel without a bra." But Surgeon Christine Haycock at the New Jersey College of Medicine says that inherited traits -- not ligaments or breast size -- are the reason some breasts give in to gravity. Bouncing bosoms help clear the lymphatics.

Well aware that their findings were "explosive," the Singers sent their survey results to the heads of America's most prestigious cancer organizations and institutes. None responded. Like the cancer business, the bra business is huge. Multiply how many worldwide women buy several $25 bras every year and you end up with a multiple of the $6 billion-a-year US bra business.
Syd Singer says that establishment censorship of the bra-breast cancer connection is killing women. Pointing to the biggest commonality among breast cancer patients, he's emphatic that it's bra-squeezed lymphatics. Going bra-less for all occasions, Soma began dressing to de-emphasize her breasts. She also began regular breast massage and bicycle riding, vitamin and herbal supplementation, and drinking only purified water. Two months later, her lump disappeared. At the first frightening sign of a lump, an angry Syd Singer says, "women should take their bras off before they take their breasts off." Why wait, when you can liberate your lymphatics now.

IF YOU MUST WEAR A BRA: Push-up and sports bras are out. Choose loose-fitting cotton bras. Make sure you can slip two fingers under the shoulder-straps and side-panels. The higher the side-panels, the more severe the restriction of major lymph nodes. Don't wear this disastrous device to sleep. Take it off at home. Massage your breasts every time you remove your bra. Sing your lymphatics into health -- or at least breathe deeply.Dressed To Kill: The Link between Breast Cancer and Bras $15.95by Sydney Ross Singer, Soma Grismaijer

Eternal Lingerie (http://www.eternallingerie.com) is a successful e-commerce and mail order based retail outlet whose aim is to fulfil your ultimate desires through their unique collection of sexy lingerie. Their aim is a simple one: to provide their customers with the opportunity to have fun, feel sexy and enjoy.Eternal Lingerie's online shopping experience has been designed to pleasure the customer even before the goods are purchased with excellent imagery, magazine feel content and a fantastic choice of good quality manufactured garments. All of their products are sourced from exclusive suppliers and are available in a variety of stunning shapes and sizes and gorgeous colours and fabrics.

Their unique collection features traditional items such as babydolls, chemises, camisole sets, bras, hosiery, thongs and g-strings, combined with a stunning collection of basques and corsets. An additional factor to Eternal Lingerie's success is their ability to supply their garments in many sizes ranging from small and petite to the fuller figure.For that extra special something where no job is safe, they supply a fantastic selection of sexy costumes ranging from naughty Nurses and saucy French Maids to sexy Police Officers and Firefighters.

There's a wide variety to choose from and they have something for everybody!Another addition to their stunning collection is their unique range of dancewear, thong bikinis and glamour shoes, whether they be for dancing or for the bedroom!Whatever your desires, Eternal Lingerie will aim to fulfil them by offering a balance of versatility, chic and glamour, together with raunchiness and flirty innocence."We utilized the strongest points of our suppliers' collections to create a range of sexy, chic yet practical lingerie enabling us to cater for a very versatile clientele" stated Keith Harvey, Managing Director and co-founder of Eternal Lingerie Ltd.

All of their products can be ordered securely online directly from their website http://www.eternallingerie.com, www.eternallingerie.com . Alternatively, should you wish to contact them with any questions or queries you may have, simply e-mail them at info@eternallingerie.com .