More Swim! Janine Robin Has Arrived!

Don't let the Bay Area fog fool you - summer is still in full swing and a virtual waterfall of swimwear has arrived in store, including an amazing selection of timeless suits from designer extraordinaire Janine Robin! While we've carried Janine Robin's lingerie for quite awhile, she actually found her start in swimwear so it follows that she knows her stuff when it comes to bringing out your inner mermaid. (We already know her underpinnings are just the ticket to bringing out your inner siren!)

The lure of a classic Two-Piece is undeniable, and Janine Robin's flirtatious pieces will appeal to even the most exacting bikini hunter! The Eole bikini is a divine find. The Balconnet comes in sizes A-D and the Full Cup comes in sizes C-F. Both bikini tops in the Eole collection boast strong straps and underwires, so they're great choices for girls who want more support from their swimwear. If you've tried on swimwear at A La Folie before, you know nothing beats a bikini top that's built like a bra! The Nacre bikini is another that's divinely supportive - it features a Full Cup top that comes in cup sizes ranging from C to F. The coordinating bottoms are Brazilian Shorts, shown below with the matching Pareo.

Nacre Full Cup Bikini Top ($131) with Brazilian Bottom ($48)

Eole Full Cup Bikini Top ($122), Brazilian Bottom ($55), Short Pareo ($80)

Eole Balconnet Bikini Top ($96), Brazilian Bottom ($48)

If the classic one-piece is more your speed, Janine Robin has some amazing styles to fit just about any aesthetic. Janine Robin's Silhouette suit is divinely flattering with its plunging neckline, generous cups and princess seaming, and comes in sizes 10-18. The classically-silhouetted Nacre Bustier suit fits sizes 8-12 and offers support from its halter strap. If a modern, clean cut is what you're after, the Java Encolure Carree suit (sizes 10-16) features a wide, square colorblocked neckline to direct focus away from the hips.

Silhouette One-Piece in Brown, $172

Nacre Bustier One-Piece in Black, $172

Java Encolure Carree One-Piece in Black, $159

So whether you prefer a tank or bikini, we've got something to suit your swimsuit style, no matter what your size!

Sweet Swimwear from Huit

We're so excited to have Huit swimwear back in store, and just in time for the warmer weather! For years, Huit's been our go-to swimwear brand - it's fun, flirtatious and functional. Boasting bright pops of color and details with attitude, Huit's bathing suits are in high demand. And our two newest collections are no exception.

The Dangerous collection is perfect for the Bond girl in all of us.

Huit's Dangerous Triangle Top ($64) and Brief ($44) in Blueberry

With a sleek and plunging Triangle Top, asymmetrical Brief bottom and button detail, this ensemble means business. So while your agenda may simply include lounging and quaffing Mai Tais by a hotel pool, you'll look like you're ready for a speedboat race through the canals of Venice. Who doesn't love to feel a little dangerous once in awhile?

If your style is more Brigitte Bardot than Ursula Andress, then Huit's Baby Be Mine collection is right up your alley! We love that Huit routinely uses 1970's details in their swimwear (after all, the company was founded in the '70's), and Baby Be Mine does not disappoint.

Huit's Baby Be Mine Bandeau ($62) and Low Brief ($46) in Blueberry

The asymmetrical Low Brief bikini bottom boasts a cute belt buckle detail, imparting some vintage sass to a boldly printed contemporary cut. The Bandeau's molded cups give the kind of support you can expect from an underwired Huit bra, so it's great for girls who need a little more structure. Sexy and supportive swimwear? Who knew!

So whether you're snorkeling in Anguilla, yachting in the Mediterranean or simply shell seeking on the California coast, Huit's got you covered... no matter what your adventure!

Get Into the Swing of Summer!

It's finally feeling like summer in the Bay Area! I don't know about you, but I've spent my weekends lounging out in the park, coating my shoulders in sunshine and downing champagne and oysters with friends. Even though I've been donning my favorite summer dresses for quite some time now (albeit with leggings because of this year's extended winter chill), it's now official: It's finally time to break out our prettiest pieces, and lingerie is no exception! Lucky for us, new uber-feminine summer collections from Lejaby and Aubade have arrived in store and they're suitably summery. Take a peek!

Aubade's Fleurs de Pommiers collection in Scarlet

When I hear the name "Aubade", I immediately think of balconnet bras. Aubade has spent decades perfected the sexy picture frame cut which has been even further beautified by the brand's Fleurs de Pommier collection. Fleurs de Pommier features a lovely embroidered net whose floral motifs are truly eye popping. The Balconnet begs to have its butterfly detail straps peek out from under a sexy black tank - it's the perfect piece for warm summer nights. The Fleurs de Pommier Balconnet and Tanga (pictured) are $99 and $69 respectively. We also have the matching Boyshort in stock as well ($99).

Lejaby's Serenity collection in Blue

Lejaby's Serenity collection is a totally different take on summer - it's pretty, crisp, and well, serene! Serenity is not only gorgeous, but eco-friendly! The collection is made of 93% organically grown cotton, so it's fashion you can feel good about. The molded demi is a sexy yet versatile cut whose floral embroidery whispers of flower-filled fields and jaunts down the boardwalk. The Demi and Tanga (pictured) are $95 and $45 respectively. We also have the Briefs in stock ($49).

No matter what your style we have something in store to suit your summer taste. Come on by for a fitting - we'll have you sunning yourself in style in no time!

What's New from Marie Jo

We like to think of Marie Jo as the very fashion-forward sister of Prima Donna. Rocking sleek cuts, bright lace, sweet trims and personality to boot, Marie Jo continually surprises us with pieces that are not only beautiful, but are crafted to last. And right now we have quite the bumper crop of Marie Jo lingerie! Come sneak a peek at what's in store...

Marie Jo's Avero Demi and Bikini

The Avero collection has been one of our staples for years! The collection's classic demi works lifts beautifully and imparts exceptional cleavage. It's also convertible! Whether your need is for a regular bra, a halter or a racerback, Avero delivers with one very simple adjustment. There's a reason our customers come back for the Avero again and again, and this season, the Cosmic Blue color is an exciting wardrobe update. The Avero Demi and Bikini are $115 and $42 respectively. We also have the matching Thong ($52) and Boxer ($54).

Marie Jo's Lucas Push Up and Thong

The Lucas collection in Natural is a another sweet spin on the classic t-shirt bra. It's high-end details amp up a simple and reliable cut. The Push Up and Thong (both pictured) are $111 and $42 respectively. We also have the coordinating Bikini ($46) and Boxer ($48) in stock as well!

Marie Jo's Emmanuelle Molded Balconnet and Tanga.

Marie Jo isn't all basics though! We're crushing on the gorgeous Emmanuelle collection in Golden Brown, which features an intricate embroidered net. While the Emmanuelle is all luxury, the lovely bra is just smooth enough to wear under knit tops. The Molded Balconnet and Tanga, both pictured above, are $180 and $110 respectively.

Marie Jo's Elodie Balconnet and Thong

Marie Jo's Elodie collection in Blue Symphony is the perfect collection for summer! Featuring a beautifully printed microfiber and a sweet white lace trim, Elodie reminds us so much of a country garden! The Balconnet and Thong (pictured) are $108 and $62 respectively. We also have the coordinating Boxer ($73) in stock.

There's a lot to love about Marie Jo this summer and we know we have the perfect piece for you, so swing by for a fitting!

A Summer Crop of Prima Donna

We don't have to tell you that we absolutely adore Prima Donna. If you follow our blog, our affection is obvious. Our bra crush has only been intensified, though, with a bumper crop of new arrivals, perfect for summer!

Prima Donna Twist's Coup De Foudre collection.
Molded (top) in Ginger, $127 | Soft Cup (bottom) in Opal, $129.

If your taste is for tee shirt bras, look no further. Prima Donna Twist's Coup de Foudre collection is an elegant update to your average everyday underpinning. We have both the molded and soft cups in stock, and both feature a refined geometric print.

Prima Donna's Amazone Full Cup (bottom) in Pandora Blue, $179.
Prima Donna's Deauville Full Cup (top) in Crocus, $155.

Prima Donna's Deauville bra has been a staple around these parts for a long time, and it's not hard to figure out why. It's our most supportive bra, hands down. For those of you who live in your Deauville bras, we have the perfect summer treat: it's now available in a lovely on-trend light purple hue. If exceptional embroidery is on your lingerie checklist, you'll have to check out Amazone, a stunning collection that features a whimsical embroidery pattern. It speaks to all the best parts of summer - playful color, botanical motifs and undeniable femininity.

Prima Donna's Tamise (bottom) in Natural, $127.
Prima Donna's Stockholm (center) in Geisha, $142
Prima Donna's Kolyma (top) in White, $147.

So bright colors aren't your thing. Not to worry! We also have three lovely new collections available from Prima Donna in the wispiest of hues, perfect for the warmer days! Welcome newcomers Tamise, Stokholm and Kolyma. All feature beautiful embroidery, unparalleled support and sexy summer style.

For all you Prima Donna devotees, now's the perfect time to update your bra collection and get re-fitted, so come check out the new stock before it's all gone!

What's New and Exciting at A La Folie

As if a new location wasn't enough to get you excited, here are a few drool-worthy bits to check out at A La Folie!

Huit Swim has finally arrived! Yes, our favorite summery swim brand has made its way to our walls, and we're in love with all the offerings, from bright and sunny bikini separates to sultry one-pieces. Huit's swimwear is not only adorable, but it stands the test of time, both in style and construction. You'll have these pieces for seasons to come! Hurry by, because they're going fast! Prices range from $45 - $89 for bikini separates, $125 - $138 for bikini sets and $130 - $149 for one-pieces.


One of our all-time hottest sellers, Marie Jo's Avero Multi-Strap Bra, has been restocked in Cognac! We have sizes 32A - 36E, and additional colors are, as always, available for special order. If you haven't tried this gem of a bra yet, swing by. This convertible bra will have you... well... converted in no time! The Multi-Strap retails for $115.


Not enough for you? Keep your eyes peeled on our blog and our mailing list for more exciting things to come! You won't be disappointed! To get on our mailing list, shoot me an email at stephanie (at) visitalafolie.com

All Hail Queen Zinke!

Zinke's Tea Party Jumper (Floral Print) $170, Zinke's Summer Fling Bralette (Tangerine) $80

Even though we pride ourselves on carrying the finest European lingerie, I have to admit that one of my favorite lines at A La Folie is Zinke, an impossibly precious collection of lingerie from Tulsa, OK. The company's namesake comes from its designers, sisters Jessie Zinke and Arin Robinson. Arin also runs a successful production and event planning business under the Zinke umbrella. It's a partnership that works out perfectly. The brains behind Zinke regularly churn out beautiful inspiration "boards" on their Zinke Design blog, put together to-die-for events, and, of course, design sweetly sexy lingerie with an edge.

Zinke's Daydream Chemise (Floral Print) $184, Zinke's Summer Fling Bralette (Violet) $80

Zinke's pieces are perfect for any lingerie connoisseur, in that they're beautiful on their own, but they're also entirely layerable. Undeniably bright colors like tangerine and violet and sweet details (petersham straps and shiny metal fastenings) only serve to enhance the fashion-forwardness of their pieces, and that's an asset we can really appreciate at A La Folie. We've had girlie girls and sporty ones alike running home with the ultra-sexy Zinke romper more times than we can count! Zinke's pieces make great gifts, which works out pretty well for the Zinke girls, given the multitude of weddings they plan! Brides from all around are drooling over all our new Zinke pieces, and we're sure you will be too! My favorite addition is the new Summer Fling bra and panty set, in a luxurious stretch satin. The bra has a retro edge with seamed cups and contrast straps. The panty features a center back seam for sassy shaping.

Zinke's Summer Fling Bralette & Panty (Tangerine) $80 and $69

Swing by and see what's new in store from Zinke -- we're sure you won't be disappointed. With sweet pieces like these, you'll be enjoying summer in style!

A Summer Jewelry Story

When I was four, my father returned from a business trip with a beautiful pair of tiny 24k gold heart stud earrings. It was at that moment that my parents decided it was time for me to bridge the gap between innocent tot and traumatized headcase: it was time to get my ears pierced.

In My Girl 2 (yes, I watched and loved it), Vada Sultenfuss refers to ear piercing as "a barbaric custom" -- at four years old, I wouldn't have disagreed. On two separate occasions, my mom sat me in the chair of death where a teen-aged ear-piercing-gun wielder stood poised over my virgin earlobes, and both times, I bolted like a frightened mouse into the surrounding mall.

Regardless of my sprinting prowess, I did eventually sit still, bite my lip and get my ears pierced. I won't lie -- it was awful. But the experience has forever shaped my jewelry collection, and I count myself lucky that I can wear beautiful earrings along with the rest of the world. No pain, no gain, right?

But I digress.

If you're a magpie like me, you covet all things glittery. Lucky for people with a sparkle problem, jewelry is the perfect obsession: it's low-impact in terms of space, so you don't have to feel too guilty about stocking up (unless of course your fetish is for Bvlgari, in which case I can't help you), and it's high-impact in terms of style and versatility. The sweetest summer ensemble is never complete without a little wink of gold. Even a colorful bikini worn with a sarong and sunhat can go from run-of-the-mill to high-fashion in a simple clip of a lobster clasp.

And we're happy to cater to the jewelryholics among you. As always, we're proud to offer pieces by Flint by Irenka Kudlicki, who is a local jewelry artist. Her pieces are always handmade, always fashionable, but still timeless. Our newest pieces are brightly colored and summery, from ropes of hand-knotted silk and shimmery orange Czech crystal, to delicate leather necklaces featuring clover charms.

Flint's Abby necklace (orange Czech crystal) $260, Flint's Gina necklace (rough disc) $130

Flint's Mia necklace (gold overlay discs, turquoise drop) $270

We also carry a great range of pieces from local favorite Viv & Ingrid ranging from itsy bitsy faux gemstone studs, to beautiful and delicate figural necklaces, featuring wishbones, elephants, and horseshoes. There are also coordinating studs to match in a variety of styles. Viv & Ingrid also offers higher-impact pieces: large gold pendant hoops and indulgent white jade drops. The range is impressive, fitting a variety of styles and just about every budget!

Viv & Ingrid's silver leaf post earrings $38

Viv & Ingrid's Belle necklace (citrine) $78

Viv & Ingrid's vermeil horseshoe post earrings $49

Viv & Ingrid's Dynasty earrings (white jade) $275

After seeing this summer's amazing jewelry pieces, I have to admit that I'm more grateful than ever to my frightened four year old self for taking one for the team. A life without post earrings would be an empty one indeed.

A Parade of Swimwear, No Matter What Your Shape!

Mes belles, Mother nature is still taunting us! Just when we think the rain is about over and the sun has begun to peek out from behind the clouds, the dreariness returns to barrage us for a few days. For now, our feet must remain in galoshes while the sweet summer sandals collect dust in the closet. And we don't like it one bit!

But we've come up with a solution. Let's all head to St. Tropez!

"I don't have a swimsuit! It's not swim season!" you say. Au contraire, mes belles! We just got our third (yes, third!) shipment of swimwear this season, this time from our newest beach-beautiful brand, Rasurel!

Rasurel has so many things going for it. Not only is it the brain child of the lingerie masters behind customer favorite Lejaby, but it's also a line focused on lift, support and sexiness in cup sizes many swimsuit brands won't touch. Rasurel boasts all the elements of truly high-end beach wear, from comfortable and durable fabrics, to sweet details, like empire-waist ties on the Daphne Tank and covered rhinestone-embellished straps on the Impec Maillot. Curvaceous girls, your search ends here. With cup sizes up to a G, Rasurel is sure to be your new favorite brand!

Rasurel's Daphne Tank Maillot, $239

Rasurel's Impec Tank Maillot (shown in green, stocked in black), $199

Anita has also delivered in the fuller-cup swim department. Their Circle-Cut Cloe suit may boast a simple shape, but its pattern is what really attracts attention, while the Organic Dana suit emphasizes a shapely waist with an ultra-flattering ruched cut. The Ethno Flower Jamina suit emphasizes a shapely bust and directs attention away from the hips with a fun and flirtatious print. All our Anita suits come in a wide range of cup sizes: C to E, and in some cases up to F, so like Rasurel, the brand is a great go-to for those with a little more up top.

Anita's Circle-Cut Cloe swimsuit, $90

Anita's Organic Dana Swimsuit, $113

Anita's Ethno Flower Jamina Swimsuit, $149

If support is not your issue, we're sure you'll love Huit's Kate tank swimsuit. The Kate is a simple, classic silhouette. A one-piece with distinctive styling: a prominent two hoop embellishment on the asymmetrical shoulder. We currently have it in black, and are expecting many more pieces from Huit in the coming months!

Huit's Kate Asymmetrical One-Piece, $149

Even if you don't make it to St. Tropez this year, there are always opportunities for fun swimsuits to make their appearance! Snag yours (and your suit) today!