Okay ladies, we are about to get real personal here, because we’re going to talk about undergarments today. Though they are often an afterthought (I mean, you don’t exactly plan which bra you’re going to wear the night before your workday), undergarments can affect how your clothing looks, so the topic’s worth discussing, no?
Now I’m not going to get into the whole “89% of American women are wearing the wrong bra size” thing. Instead I’m going to focus on why it’s important to wear the right bra with the right clothing.
As you know, I have pretty stringent opinions on cleavage in the workplace. That is, I don’t think it should be seen in the workplace at all, no matter what the situation or scenario. If you’re not a Cirque Du Soleil performer or a professional bikini model, it’s best to keep covered. But that doesn’t mean you should resort to dowdy undergarments that do nothing for your shape. It also doesn’t mean that you can’t buy lingerie that enhances your shape and provides two other important things: comfort and support.
I recently got to try out Vanity Fair’s new Modern Coverage and Illumination lines of bras and underwear. The three bras I got to try are the Vanity Fair® Advanced Support Underwire Bra, the Vanity Fair® Look Lifted Underwire Bra and the Vanity Fair® Front Close Underwire Bra.
I had asked that all of the bras be sent in the nude color because I cannot overstress the importance of owning a nude bra (or seven) and how versatile they are (and by versatile, I mean essential). I had never tried this lingerie line before, so I wore only Vanity Fair® bras for well over a week, every day, so that I could fully experience each bra and wear each with a different outfit.
Overall I am very pleased with the quality and level of comfort of each bra. There are little details I’ll share about each style and what I liked about each of them, but first let’s take a peek inside my bra drawer. (I told you we were gettin’ real in this post, and yes, I have a drawer just for my bras … is that weird?)
Below I’ll discuss the bras individually, as well as my thoughts about each one of them. I will note that the true bra test for me is if I can wear it when I get home from work. Some days, you come home and the first thing you want to do is rip your bra off (or is that just me? Bueller? Bueller?). I have to say that I was surprised to find myself leaving my bra on a few times after coming home from work.
One thing I want to point out about all of the styles is the straps. They are well made and supportive, and I like how they are all different thicknesses. I like picking the bra depending on my wardrobe choices. For example, I might choose thicker straps if I feel I need more support and I’m wearing a top with long sleeves or thick straps. If I’m wearing a tank, I opt for thinner straps. Here are some detail shots so you can see the different strap styles.
I also got to try out the Illumination® undies (I hate the word panty) and, though I said we were getting personal in this post, that drawer is off limits, so I’ll just tell you which pair I like best. It’s the Illumination® String Bikini. I like the way it’s cut and it’s flattering on. Personally I prefer lace undies, but it’s nice to switch it up sometimes. Good to know that Vanity Fair® makes laces ones too. I might have to try them out!
- Nude bras don’t show under your clothes. They blend in with your skin. So when you wear a white or light shirt wear a nude bra versus a white one (match the bra to your skin tone).
- They work well with light colors and sheer fabrics.
- It’s not as distracting if your strap accidentally peeks out if it’s nude (versus, say, lime green).
- You can wear them with dark colors, too.
Katharine says
Great post! I feel like I'm always on the hunt for the perfect bra. And you are so right, as much as I love the bright and beautifuls, I always end up grabbing for my nude so it wouldn't hurt to have another. I'm liking the lacy one. 🙂
Mami2jcn says
My favorite is the Beautiful Benefits Zoned-In Support Wirefree Bra (style # 71371) in Tiffany Silver.
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
Mami2jcn says
tweet:
https://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/245176046297706496
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
Frugal Mom from California says
I like the Modern Coverage Front Close Underwire bra in Steel Violet
[email protected]
Frugal Mom from California says
https://twitter.com/ElenaIstomina/status/245186221222023168
[email protected]
Sophia's Blog says
Great post! I think nude bras are essential too, because they are just so handy for everyday wear! xxx
DebGarcia says
Twitter
https://twitter.com/DedeSGarcia/status/245198347978285056
The Schulte Family says
I need to try the bra thats best for 'after three kids my boobs are ruined'…
Lauren says
I like the third bra — the look lifted one. The lace is so pretty! It's like business in front, party in the back. Ha!
Katie says
I would like the Vanity Fair® Advanced Support Underwire Bra probably since I like that it won't show under tees which I have to wear to work every day!
katie6411 at hotmail dot com
Shadowy Lady says
great post! I agree that nude bras are the best! I have many different colours of bras but my go-to are always shades of nude.
Do Vanity Fair make bigger cup sizes? I'm a 34E and most brands found at department stores here in Canada don't have my size 🙁
Kristal says
This is a great post but doesnt do me one bit of good. Unfortunately I am bigger around than a 38. I love the informative posts though.
TheUrbanUmbrella says
Great post! Totally think nude bras are a staple item!
xoxo Bree
The Urban Umbrella
https://www.theurbanumbrella.com/
A. says
I'm wondering, did the Look Lifted bra really give "lift"? Also, wondering how you feel these shaped you. Was there a noticeable difference in three? I always have a hard time finding a bra that I feel gives me the shape I want. I don't like pointy Madonna boobs! LOL!!
Emily says
I love the Look Lifted! The lace is so pretty!
sgrudzien says
I really like the front closure bra. I don't have any like that so it would be nice to try.
cjeanette says
I think I would enjoy trying the one with the front closure. Sometimes I find them more supportive?
Kristin says
I love the look lifted underwire bra. I am in need of a new nude one!
gina says
Love the Look Lifted Underwire Bra. Taking Nude Bras up a notch with the lace.
Marasy says
I'm all about the femininity of lace, so I'm liking the look Lifted Underwire bra. I'm at aras _moonstar at yahoo dot com.
Cheryl Rouse says
I like the look lifted underwire bra as well. I am updating my bra wardrobe right now and it would be nice to have one with pretty lace like that!
prettipenny says
The lifted look is my favorite. Funny, I was just bra shopping the other night and was getting so frustrated! I will have to check these out.
kellyr78 says
I like the Front Close Underwire bra in Star White
kellywcuATyahooDOTcom
Maca says
Love the look lifted! I can't tell you how important it is to find a good supporting bra when you come from the land of the double d's! 🙂
macafdez at gmail dot com
kellyr78 says
tweet
https://twitter.com/Kellydpa/status/245288379862904832
kellywcuATyahooDOTcom
Chandra says
I think the Front Close Underwire Bra is the one I would go for. I've been looking for a nude bra with a racer back and this totally fits the bill!
[email protected]
Rachel says
I am most interested in the Front Closure Underwire bra 🙂
Carolina Belle says
I love the lifted underwire!! Amen on the nude over white bra issue…I don't like seeing a girl in a white shirt wearing a white bra because you can literally see everything. I learned my lesson a few years ago when I wore a white bra under a purple shirt to a party that had black lights, so my bra "glowed" under my top! It was so embarrassing.
[email protected]
picturesandplanetickets says
I've never tried this line from Vanity Fair, but I might have to branch out and give it a try.
krystle {dot} olsen @ hotmail {dot} com
https://picturesandplanetickets.wordpress.com
Maja Moldenhauer says
These look soooo nice and comfy and high quality! Thanks for sharing V
Lena says
Thank you for the practical and informative review.
Lmwong01 at yahoo dot com
Kayla says
I like the advanced support underwire bra. Good support is so important.
from Closet to Chic says
Underwire Look Lifted is my fav for sure! I totally agree with you on the nude bra!
holdingthestars at hotmail dot com
Michelle says
I could really use a nice Nude lace bra. Not only are they sexy, but you feel sexy anytime you slip on lace! And the fact that they are comfortable! I didn't know such a bra existed!
https://twitter.com/realmichellesch/status/245361420273864705
*Michelle*
[email protected]
stefanie gladden says
My favorite bra from Vanity Fair is the Modern Coverage Look Lifted Underwire bra in Shocked Pink!!
stefanie.gladden@ gmail . com
stefanie gladden says
also tweeted! – https://twitter.com/steffers516/status/245366834331795457
stefanie.gladden@ gmail . com
Amy says
I'm a big fan of a basic t-shirt type of bra, so the advanced support sounds like a winner in my book!
niftyfoodie at gmail dot com
Andrea says
I liked the underwire look lifted.
[email protected]
Samantha says
I like the third one, the look lifted bra with the lace.
http://www.makeupandotherfunstuff.blogspot.com
Angela Furin says
I would love to try the underwire look lifted bra! I usually get all of my bras at Nordstrom, because I wear a size not carried in most stores!
[email protected]
Jen says
I love your blog and I can't believe this will be my first ever comment, but…I loathe the word panties! It just sounds dirty to me! 🙂
~J says
Great review!! My first choice is always a nude bra.
Courtney B says
i like the modern look lifted bra
vanitizebaby at yahoo dot com
Courtney B says
tweet
https://twitter.com/MeandBells/status/245521153458831360
vanitizebaby at yahoo dot com
Jessica Anders says
I would love the Front Close Underwire Bra. I'm always hooking my bra closed then spinning it around to put it on. My arms are just too short to hook it from the back.
regina says
Nude bras are a must! Great giveway!
[email protected]
Meghan says
Great post! I love the Modern Coverage Look Lifted Bra in all the colors. Sexy and comfortable all in one!
[email protected]
na says
I actually have the lifted underwire bra on right now! Haha I thought it looked familiar when I started reading this post. Love it – I have a large chest and it really helps to lift and keep them from looking saggy and huge.
hhalehh at gmail dot com
Yulia Case says
I LOVE nude bras! they truly do go with pretty much everything, especially the work clothes. I never tried wearing the front closing bra, so that would be the one I like from this post and would love to try out 🙂 Thank you for this giveaway! and it's a great post!
jaydub says
I would like to try the front close bra. After nursing 2 kiddos a little lift and separation might be just what the doctor ordered! Plus a smooth back? Well that just makes sense with some of my tops!
StephanieC says
Modern Coverage
Look Lifted Underwire in shock pink! scg00387 at yahoo dot com
StephanieC says
https://twitter.com/DesMoinesDealin/status/245693242845315072 scg00387 at yahood ot com
Wendy says
V, do you think those would be well suited for the DD girls? And did the lace one itch? I am trying to build up my bras, so I'm going to try one of these I think.
[email protected] says
@wendy–I wear a 34 D but all breasts are shaped differently. I would try them on and see if they work 🙂 good luck!
Tj and Amy says
I would love the advanced support underwire t-shirt bra in star white
[email protected]
Tj and Amy says
tweet. [email protected]
https://twitter.com/1amypugmire/status/245734501341343744
Michelle says
I like the Modern Coverage Look Lifted Underwire in Shock Pink. Thanks for the chance to win!
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com
Michelle says
https://twitter.com/MrsMChappell/statuses/245735434838241280
Tweet
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com
Linh C. says
I have been searching for new bras! I'd like to try the Front Close Underwire Bra.
Lisa Brown says
I like the Modern Coverage Look Lifted Underwire bra.
jslbrown_03 at yahoo dot com
Lisa Brown says
https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/245948081500217344
jslbrown_03 at yahoo dot com
Kelly says
I really like the Look Lifted Underwire Bra. I love all of the details.
Casellan says
Thanks for doing a review on these bras! I tend to reach for the nude color over the other colors, and am always looking for new comfortable bras. I've never had a front closure bra before, but it sounds like I should try it out!
amandacasella{at}gmail{dot}com
Kim D. says
The Lifted Underwire Bra would be my favorite.
mom22girlz at ymail dot com
Kim D. says
tweeted https://twitter.com/mom22girlz/status/246061730248134658
Peggy says
Great review! I am looking for a new bra and this helped a lot. I would love to win one. My favorite is the Vanity Fair® Front Close Underwire Bra. I'll be trying some on tomorrow!
Peggy
[email protected]
Karine Jones says
I like the look lifted bra.
keenkarine at gmail dot com.
Judy B. says
My favorite is the Advanced Support Underwire Bra.
Judy B. says
Tweet
https://twitter.com/BBirdie2/status/246116433489174528
seedscatterer says
Another of those 'problem areas' that is seldom discussed at length while we all search for the perfect garment. I've always thought front fasteners were a great idea.
Laura C says
Style 75294 the front close bra is one of my favorites
B. Wilson says
I like the look lifted underwire brad.
Amanda says
Great review! Vanity Fair® Look Lifted Underwire Bra is the one I like best!
Ashley @ Bride on a Budget says
I like the Vanity Fair® Advanced Support Underwire Bra. I think it would be the most supportive.
cw says
I love the advanced support underwire tshirt bra best
Melanie says
I would choose the lifted underwire bra. And boy do I need one!!!
Lisa R says
I like the Advanced Support Underwire T-Shirt Bra in Oceanside Blue
sibabe64 at ptd dot net
Lisa R says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/sibabe64/status/246465553160630274
sibabe64 at ptd dot net
tara1965 says
I like the lifted look underwire.
ms-texas says
i like the advanced support underwire T shirt bra
debbiebellows (at) gmail (dot) com
jakiesmom says
i like front close underwire in star white
[email protected]
sy says
I like the advanced support underwire tshirt bra, I also want to try the front close bra. Thanks for the review and giveaway.
songyueyu at gmail
sy says
tweet: https://twitter.com/syytta/status/247218352689397760
songyueyu at gmail
mdowling says
I like the Advanced Support Underwire Bra. mistidowling at gmail dot com.
mdowling says
I like the Advanced Support Underwire bra. mistidowling at gmail dot com
JC says
I like Modern Coverage Front Close Underwire in Damask Neutral
tcarolinep at gmail dot com
JC says
https://twitter.com/tcarolinep/status/247543303405465600
Jessamyn Lupardus says
I like the front close underwire bra in damask neutral.
[email protected]
MANDY83 says
I like the Look Lifted Underwire bra
pokergrl8 at gmail.com
MANDY83 says
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/247733745556275200
pokergrl8 at gmail.com
Melinda says
ooo I could use some new "unmentionables". I like the Modern Coverage Front Close Underwire Bra
Melinda says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/MelindaJoy926/status/248142610642911232
Meg says
I like the look lifted underwire – it is the prettiest!
[email protected]
Coco in Pink says
Absolutely love the lifted underwire! Nice and smooth under t shirts which is what I look for in a good bra!
[email protected]
Ann Fattore says
Hi Veronika! I like the first one:) Love tshirt bra 🙂
Modern Money Maven says
I love the lace On the look lifted!
Wiley37 says
Does Vanity Fair do bras that are full coverage but not padded? I don't like a bunch of foam.
Wiley37 says
Does VF have bras that aren't so padded? I want a thick enough fabric for no showing yet not a bunch of foam.
gettingfitinphilly says
I love the Vanity Fair® Modern Coverage Look Lifted Underwire Bra in Steele Violet.
monika992 at aolmail dot com
Irina says
The Front Close Underwire Bra looks quite amazing!
Kalynn's Mommy says
Definately have learned the importance of the right bra!!!
Elan Vital - Anti Aging Journal says
Ooooh, I so like the Vanity Fair Look Lifted Bra. Its pretty and appears to do the job with flair and comfort. Thanks for the review.
HoosierMama says
I like the Look Lifted bra, but I don't like to wear under wire bras – way too uncomfortable!! I do love the Vanity Fair bras without under wires, they're the only ones I will wear.
not undecided says
Need new bras so badly – three months postpartum and still nursing/pumping, so what size I am would be the biggest challenge right now!
not undecided says
https://twitter.com/amedame/status/248782947216392192
Thistle Cove Farm says
I'm convinced there is no perfect bra; just bras that will do. An older dept. store woman sized me once; I found out I was wearing the exact right size. Why then, am I still not over the moon thrilled with my bras?
Amy says
I want to try the Back Smoothing Front Close one. nice and simple.
amy [at] utry [dot] it
Amy says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/uTry_it/status/248893086275604481
amy [at] utry [dot] it
Tina says
I like the support Modern Coverage Underwire Bra
[email protected]
Tina says
https://twitter.com/HappyTina0115/status/248923553913794561
[email protected]
marisa says
I love the look lifted underwire bra!
Kit says
Hi Veronika!
I would love the Vanity Fair Advanced Support Underwire Bra in Midnight Black. I have a few nude bras already, but I could definitely use a new black one, especially one that works well with fitted tops, as you mentioned. Although, I must admit, I have been a fan of front closure bras for years. The solid band makes them great for dresses that don't require a strapless bra. Thanks so much for the informative review! 🙂
[email protected]
Howell says
I like the Modern Coverage Underwire bra in blue the most.
hlee99 (at) gmail (dot) com
Howell says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/leedhowell/status/249196314842243072
hlee99 (at) gmail (dot) com
Fritter says
I like the front Close Underwire best, thanks!
Melanie says
I like the Look Lifted underwire bra.
melduke26 at gmail dot com
wizardewu says
the Modern Coverage Advanced Support Underwire in white is my choice.
eugeniewu at gmail dot com
Georgia Caudle says
I think I would like the Modern Coverage
Front Close Underwire. I am so into comfort.
gmissycat at yahoo dot com
Georgia Caudle says
Tweeted too
https://twitter.com/gmissycat/status/249293966237900801
gmissycat at yahoo dot com
Adina says
The bras are so pretty! Icould use a new bra for myself and these look comfortable
jenmalonee says
I like the Modern Coverage Advanced Support Underwire bra
Jennifer Marie
lilnursejen at yahoo dot com
jenmalonee says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/JenniferCNP/status/249904973654151168
jennifer marie
lilnursejen at yahoo dot com
meredith m says
I like the advanced support underwire tshirt bra
mermont84 at yahoo.com
meredith m says
tweeted https://twitter.com/mermont84/status/249927070820474881
mermont84 at yahoo.com
meredith m says
i forgot the tweet hastag in my original tweet https://twitter.com/mermont84/status/249938668373037056
Janice says
Advanced Support Underwire T-Shirt bra in black
tweety800265(at)yahoo(dot)com
Janice says
Tweeted https://twitter.com/disneyfan40/status/249990400595615745
tweety800265(at)yahoo(dot)com
chambanachik says
I would like to try the Modern Coverage Look Lifted underwire!
[email protected]
karenmed409 says
I like the Advanced Support Underwire T-shirt bra in the Midnight Black
karenmed409 at comcast dot net
Mare says
The look lifted underwire
Mare says
Tweeted : https://twitter.com/JustMareD/status/250732185265528834
Merry says
Oooh, I'm always on the lookout for a good bra. I like the front closure.
Angel Jacklyn says
THEY ALL ARE MY FAVORITE! ….. BUT THE "LOOK LIFTED" WILL SUFFICE….
[email protected]
Angel Jacklyn says
2ND ENTRY TWEET https://twitter.com/kytah00/status/250848909755301888
Cole says
I like the front close. The waistband seems so comfortable and sturdy
Trauma says
I really like all three bra's and that does surprise me. I do think the one I like the best is the modern coverage look lifted underwire.
I like that it gives u that extra boost up.
Emily N. says
I like the look lifted underwire bra.
Emily N. says
https://twitter.com/prizepuzzle/status/251124003358531585
MCantu1019 says
I liked the advanced support underwire t-shirt bra in maui purple.
MCantu1019 at aol dot com
ms-texas says
i tweeted here:
https://twitter.com/bellows22/status/252565359733899264
debbiebellows (at) gmail (dot) com
Harmony Burmeister says
I like the Look Lifted Underwire Bra
Harmony Burmeister says
tweet https://twitter.com/hburmeister/status/252586487948914688
Kerry says
I like the Look Lifted Underwire.
nuthouse(at)centurytel(dot)net
Kerry says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/KerryBishop/status/252915621916975104
nuthouse(at)centurytel(dot)net
Anne says
The Vanity Fair Look Lifted Underwire Bra looks perfect–comfortable, functional, yet still pretty!
annieo217 at hotmail dot com
Christina says
I like many of them but the one I like the most is the Modern Coverage Front Close Underwire Bra.
ctong2[at]gmai[dot]com
Christina says
I tweeted about this promotion: https://twitter.com/ctong2/status/253382022469414912
ctong2[at]gmail[dot]com
slehan says
Vanity Fair® Look Lifted Underwire Bra would be my choice.
Thanks for the contest.
slehan at juno dot com
slehan says
blogged:
https://slehan.blogspot.com/2012/10/win-100-visa-gc-from-blogher-vanity-fair.html
slehan at juno dot com
Brown Ranch says
The first bra sounds like the one for me.
Becca says
Thank you! I am always looking for the perfect bra!
Becca says
forgot to tell you which one was my fav….the front close 🙂
Julie says
I think I'd like to try the Advanced Support Underwire Bra
Gina Wildorchid says
I like the Modern Coverage Advanced Support Underwire T Shirt Bra!
Thanks for the cool giveaway!
wildorchid985 @ gmail dot com
Gina Wildorchid says
tweet–https://twitter.com/WildOrchid985/status/253818368711356416
wildorchid985 @ gmail dot com
Jayne Martin says
The Advanced Support Underwire looks like the one I'd be most comfortable wearing.
[email protected]
Jayne Martin says
Tweeted.
https://twitter.com/Jayne_Martin/status/253911939791589377
[email protected]
Melissa O. says
I like the Front Close Underwire…need one in white to go under white shirts!
wolverina401 at gmail dot com
Lexiquin says
I love the Modern Coverage Look Lifted Underwire! For more than 20 years, Vanity Fair has been my bra of choice. Thanks for the giveaway!
Lexiquin says
Tweet! https://twitter.com/lexiquin/status/254029516832382977
Glo says
What you explain here is so valuable. I never go for the nude color bras because I am naturally attracted to bright colors, but it makes so much sense. Thank you for sharing!
Betty C says
I really prefer a wirefree bra but of the three shown I would choose the Modern Coverage
Look Lifted Underwire.
willitara [at] gmail [dot] com
Betty C says
Tweet – https://twitter.com/willitara/status/254615690022113280
willitara [at] gmail [dot] com
Ashley T. says
I like the Advanced Support Underwire Bra in nude
ajoy1332 at yahoo dot com
Ashley T. says
tweeted https://twitter.com/ajoy1332/status/254691176651845632
ajoy1332 at yahoo dot com
Julie says
Beautiful Benefits® Zoned-In Support Wirefree
Style Number: 71371 this one
[email protected]
thansk
Dee says
I'd love to try out the Vanity Fair® Look Lifted Underwire Bra in the Steele Violet color 🙂
deeg131 at gmail dot com
Dee says
tweeted https://twitter.com/DeeGee13/status/254793458236153856
deeg131 at gmail dot com
momznite says
I like the turquoise ice Modern Coverage Advanced Support Underwire T-Shirt Bra the best.
momznite says
tweet
https://twitter.com/momznite/status/254814425792540673
Amber says
Pretty! I love how supportive these bras look too, I would love the Look Lifted Underwire Bra! Thanks!
shevilkenevil1 at aol dot com
Jammie Morey says
I like the front close underwire ones the msot. sweepmorey at gmail dot com
Jammie Morey says
tweeted https://twitter.com/mommysdizzy/status/254988287020769282
angie lilly says
Underwire T-Shirt Bra Advanced Support Underwire T-Shirt Bra Midnight Black is nice.
Angie
14earth at gmail dot com
angie lilly says
I tweeted here: https://twitter.com/MsTofuFairy/status/255016729795784705
Angie
14earth at gmail dot com
yadgirl says
I like the Look Lifted underwire bra
purplelover04 says
I love the underwire bra in pink
purplelover04 says
https://mobile.twitter.com/purplelover04/status/255053484066480128
Anash says
i like the Modern Coverage
Front Close Underwire most of all! thanks for a great giveaway
email: anashct1 [at] yahoo [dot] com
Anash says
tweet tweet: https://twitter.com/anashct3/status/255124193023238144
thanks for this super giveaway
email: anashct1 [at] yahoo [dot] com
The Sunshyn says
The lifted look in Steele Violet
chainmail (at)iwon (dot) com
Aire Bra says
aire bra
The most important thing to remember is that you can wear all the greatest
clothes and all the greatest shoes, but you’ve got to have a good spirit
on the inside. That’s what’s really going to make you look like you’re ready
to rock the world