HOW TO SPRING-CLEAN YOUR LINGERIE DRAWER

WITH EMMA DA SILVA, HEAD OF BOUTIQUE DESIGN AT INTIMO LINGERIE

Every four to six months, you should sort through your lingerie drawer and toss out any unloved items. If yours is the kind that’s overflowing (but you feel like you’ve never got anything to wear), stick to this simple three-step analysis. FIT If the band or straps are stretched and your bra feels loose, or the cups don’t mould to your breasts anymore, it’s time to let it go. While it’s tempting to hold onto a comfortable old favourite, you’re not being supported. (This goes for sports bras, too.) Rule of thumb: three everyday bras is a good number – one to wear, one in the wash, one in the wardrobe. When washing your briefs, delicate styles should be handwashed in cool water with a mild detergent to extend their life and keep their shape. Let your lingerie dry naturally, not in a dryer, as heat can degrade fabrics. FUNCTION Maintain the shape and integrity of your bra cup by placing a pair of balled-up socks into each cup when you store the bras in your drawer, one behind the other. Or, save the tissue paper from the packaging and place a ball into each cup. If you have clothes that you avoid wearing because you don’t have the right bra, it’s definitely time to invest in a multistyling option. On the bottom, avoid wearing styles that cut into your skin, need constant adjusting or peek out of clothes. FASHION Just like with the rest of your wardrobe, lingerie trends come and go. On-trend colours are fabulous, but only if they work with your wardrobe’s palette. It’s a good

idea to try a new colour on – it could look different on you than on the hanger. If it makes you look washed out, or you’re not 100 per cent in love, keep looking.

Finally, if you’ve got pre-loved bras that are still in good condition but you just don’t wear them anymore, don’t toss them without a second thought – donate them to Uplift Project (upliftbras.org), which supplies bras to women in need.