Learning Lingerie: Taking the Plunge

Now that we know all about Balconnets, Demi Cups and Full Cup bras, it's time to talk the ultimate in low cut: the plunge bra!

Andres Sarda's Klein Non-Wire Plunge

The plunge bra does just what its name suggests by eliminating much of the center gore, making it perfect for use under low-cut clothing. What's really great about the plunge bra, though, is that it takes countless forms and works on a variety of body types.

For example, The Little Bra Company makes padded demi plunges which feature an open neckline and substantial boosting properties for girls on the smaller end of the spectrum. Other companies like Andres Sarda, even make styles like the Klein (shown above) in a non-wire plunge cut, perfect for girls in a B or C cup who don't want or need the lift of a padded/wired bra, but crave comfort coupled with a deep cut.

Prima Donna's Amazone Plunge

As a balconnet is not always a demi cup, the term "plunge" doesn't necessarily imply less overall coverage. For the girls who need a little more support, Prima Donna's plunge bra is actually technically a full cup. The Amazone (shown above, soon to arrive in store in Pandora Blue) is the perfect plunge for E to G cups -- it doesn't sacrifice support or coverage for the sake of the deep V style. In fact, they have all the lift and shaping of the balconnet and traditional full cup styles. That's why Prima Donna plunges have always been a customer favorite!

More extreme versions of the plunge cut feature a longline silhouette where the band (and thus, the plunging gore portion) extends vertically well past the usual measurements.

It's also important to note that while we may not carry each collection's version of a plunge in store, we can always order it for you! Almost every designer and collection has some iteration of a plunge bra, and we'd be happy to help you find the perfect one for you!

Big or Small, We've Got It All

Just as certain cuts of a similar dress will look vastly different on two separate body types, certain styles of underpinnings will cater differently to two varying shapes. We've fitted just about every body shape there is, so we know firsthand that a bra designed for an A cup will not do wonders for someone who has an E cup. The same logic applies in reverse as well.

There is no such thing as an unusual size in our neck of the woods, so just because you're a chesty or need an additional boost, it doesn't mean you're relegated to tee shirt bras or have to settle for something that pinches, puckers or bunches. Come take a look at what's in store - some of our favorite brands have ushered in some lovely spring collections. We're sure you won't be disappointed!

Prima Donna Twist White Night Balconnet (Mistral Blue), $117

Twist is Prima Donna's diffusion line. It has all the support and construction of a traditional Prima Donna bra at a lower cost. Twist's colors and cuts are youthful, flirtatious and fun, as evidenced by their newest addition to our store, the White Night collection. The beautiful balconnet cut is perky and uplifting and the microfiber cups are smooth and soft. The beautiful embroidery adds a touch of decadence to a bra that is sure to be your uber-supportive everyday go-to.

Prima Donna Twist White Night Thong (Mistral Blue), $44

The White Night collection also features a coordinating thong and boxer. Both feature the bra's lovely embroidery and make a gorgeous eye-catching set.

Little Bra Company Mercedes Padded Bra & Thong (Blush), $87 & $29

For those among you who want a little extra boost, there's The Little Bra Company. Their motto "Good things DO come in small packages!" is spot on. Every bra they make has been a massive hit with our more petite clientele, and it's no wonder. A LBC bra is specifically designed for girls who need a little oomph and no other aspect (not construction, style or durability) is sacrificed. Their newest collection, the Mercedes, is a perfect springtime addition to our store.

Little Bra Company Mercedes Thong (Blush), $29

The Mercedes bra features padded seamed cups and a stretch lace that's silky soft. The coordinating thong has a sweet corset detail on the back - a reminder that the little things really do matter!

Long story short, chers amis, big or small, we've got it all! Come visit us and bring some brights to your underwear wardrobe!

This Sunday: Celebrate the 15th Annual Jazz on 4th Festival with Massive Savings!

There's no better time to dance, tap your toes and shop than this Sunday!

For one day only, enjoy massive savings store-wide as we celebrate the annual Jazz on Fourth Festival and Fundraiser! Take in the music with free shows by BHS Jazz Combo & Ensemble, Jazz Mafia, Zakiya Hooker and Fito Reinoso while you check out what 4th Street has to offer!

Enjoy 20% off store-wide at A La Folie*, including brand-new collections from Simone Perele, Anita and The Little Bra Company!

Select collections are up to 60% off, including pieces by Millesia, Valery, Le Chat and Rosapois!

See you there!

(*sale excludes Forever New, fragrance items and Zinke Goodnight Lovely eyemasks)

A Smooth Operator For Petites!

So often, customers stop by A La Folie, meekly meander to the counter and quietly say "Your window says you sell hard-to-find sizes. Can you help me?" I'm always amazed that so many women perceive themselves to be a difficult size. It's true that bigger and smaller bras are harder to come by, but that doesn't mean they don't exist!

We don't bat an eye at a 38 or 40 band size, a 32A or a 44G. We've fit just about everyone and are continually adding new styles to suit every size, shape and preference. If we don't have what you're looking for, rest assured, we can find it!

Which leads me to our most exciting new arrival, and no, it's not for the chestier among you! A very common request we get is for a 30 band size and AA or A cup. Many of the brands we carry won't even make a 30 band size or AA cup, meaning that our petites were too often left out in the cold, especially when it came to basics. But no more!

The Little Bra Company's Angela smooth cup bra

We just love The Little Bra Company. Their bras give a noted lift and shaping to a modest bust line -- we've had to order their Lucia lace plunge three times to accommodate the demand! And now we're excited to announce the arrival of the Angela tee shirt bra, a push up that wears well with just about anything. The smooth molded cups create a clean silhouette, perfect for slim-fitting tees and dresses. Even better, the straps are fully convertible -- racerback and halter tops are easier than ever to pull off! And the price is just right -- $62 buys you effortless lift, sumptuous cleavage and undeniable versatility!

Criss-crossed straps are no problem!

Mes belles, it's true: good things really DO come in small packages!