A great outfit starts with a smooth foundation. Not too clued up when it comes to buying lingerie? We chatted with Catherine Trope, the owner of Wolford – an exclusive brand renowned for its impeccable quality and design, to get the lowdown on all things delicate and lacey.
GLAMOUR: What are the DOs and DON’Ts of buying lingerie?
Catherine: DO get fitted before buying a new bra: a professional will ensure that the straps are the right length, and that the cups and back fit correctly. Ensure the lingerie you buy is comfortable and provides the look you are after. A good tip to remember is to wear flesh coloured underwear when going to fit lingerie so that you are able to try on new panties or forming wear. DON’T have preconceived ideas – everything looks different once it’s on. Never purchase lingerie when in a rush, you need to take the time to fit everything correctly. Remember that some makes and styles are cut smaller and others bigger, so DON’T be rigid about your size.
GLAMOUR: What are the DOs and DON’Ts of buying tights?
Catherine: DO buy 2 pairs of the same tights! Keep the second pair in your handbag, just in case. Use your tights to make a statement or complete an outfit – dots, stripes and glittering details are big trends right now. And make sure you DO understand the differences in deniers. DON’T buy tights too small as they will have a greater risk of laddering. DON’T buy the tights too big as they roll at the ankles and fall down in the crutch.
GLAMOUR: What are the DOs and DON’Ts of socks?
Catherine: Socks can brighten up any outfit or completely change your look. DO experiment by wearing your socks with pants, skirts or dresses. Be bold and courageous or go for a sassy and flirtatious look. DON’T hide your socks or be shy in them!
GLAMOUR: What are the lingerie and tight buys every stylish woman should have in her wardrobe?
Catherine: Every woman should have 1 pair of black opaque Wolford tights (I love the seamless Pure 50’s), a pair or 2 of the Individual 10’s (excellent stretch and a perfect fit, thanks to the use of double wrapped elastane in each row) in black and a pair of satin touch 20 control top tights in a skin tone and barely black (for a flat stomach and a beautifully shaped bottom, hips and thighs with a barely visible reinforced toe) and for summer a skin tone pair of Luxe 9 toeless tights (almost invisible in nude shades, completely toeless to accentuate the summery effect of open-toes sandals and peep toe shoes). The sheer touch soft bra/ soft cup bra/ push up bra and a pair of sheer touch control panties or shorts. The sheer touch fabric is paper thin, soft as silk on the skin and completely seamless.
GLAMOUR: What makes Wolford special?
Catherine: The quality of Wolford is perfect with recognisable comfort. The versatility is remarkable with a distinctive touch and it feels as if you are wearing a second skin. The Wolford materials are easy to care for.
Shop Wolford South Africa’s gorgeous delicates at www.partner-jhb.wolfordshop.co.za.
Want more about all things lovely and lacey? Check out these 10 lingerie styles you’ll want to show off.
