Every Mother’s Day we strive to find something for our moms that is personal.  A meaningful token for all she has done for us:  birthing, nursing, diapers; cleaning, carpools, homework; tough love, advice, endless care and affection.  We want to give something that returns the feelings of comfort, support and confidence she has given us for years.

Bras are personal.  And to us, bras are very personal.  So this Mother’s Day, give your mom, or any mom in your life, an uplifting gift, both physically and emotionally.  Give her soft fabrics in fun colors and patterns.  Help her reach her goals, whether it is health and fitness, curling up with a book or being more romantic.  We believe that bras can inspire confidence from the intimates, out.   And what better gift for your biggest fan, than a personal boost from her biggest fan.

Happy Mother’s Day!

We are The Bra Recyclers and are excited about our partnership with Leading Lady Intimate Apparel. The partnership will assist us in continuing our outreach to provide recycled bras to deserving women and girls across the country that are part of our Charity Connections.

The Bra Recyclers is an Arizona based recycling company. Founded in 2008, we recycle gently used bras to women and girls in need in communities throughout the country. These recycled bras provide encouragement and support when they need it most.  We currently support a network of 58 organizations that provide women and girls with the tools and skills they need to become self-sufficient.  We have been able to exceed our outreach commitments on a continual basis thanks to partnerships with corporations such as Leading Lady, as well as through a network of Bra Recycling Ambassadors.  Bra Recycling Ambassadors are the “foot soldiers” of The Bra Recyclers.  They are women around the country who are committed to bringing bra recycling into their communities by hosting bra drives.

We are so excited to partner with a company that is community and environmentally focused. Leading Lady is known for celebrating and supporting women, and we are proud to share their bras with the women we serve. We currently support 58 organizations throughout the nation and frequently receive requests for full figure bras.  Unfortunately, such a high demand for full figure bras has been a challenge to keep up with. We often times ration how many we give out to ensure we keep some in inventory. By partnering with Leading Lady, fulfilling request for full figure bras and our increasing request for nursing bras, will be more achievable.

At this point you are probably wondering how to recycle all your gently used bras that you don’t wear any more. It’s simple; just follow four easy steps:

1.  Wash It. All bras should be washed.

2.  Tag It. Fill out Bra Recycling Form at http://www.brarecycling.com/bra_recycle.shtml

3.  Box It. Place your bras in a box or large envelope.

4.  Drop It Off or Mail It to:

3317 S. Higley Rd, Ste 114-441
Gilbert, AZ 85297

5.  Buy yourself a new bra from Leading Lady!  You deserve it!

We want to personally invite all you “Leading Ladies” to help re-shape the life of a woman in need. Today is the day that you can help another woman become the “Leading Lady” of her own life.  Recycle your bras today and be sure to check out our website, http://www.brarecycling.com for upcoming events and make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter.

Guest post by Elaine Birks-Mitchell, CEO and Founder of The Bra Recyclers

Leading Lady has some exciting news to share! We’re unveiling our spring collection featuring new nursing and full figure styles and colors today. We can’t wait for you to check it out, and wanted to share the news with all of our fabulous Leading Ladies. Read on and happy shopping!

LEADING LADY INTIMATE APPAREL LAUNCHES 2012 SPRING COLLECTION

Spring Nursing and Full Figure Lines Featuring New Bra and Cami Styles in

Fresh Seasonal Colors Now Available

(Cleveland, OH) March 13, 2012 – Leading Lady, a premiere nursing and full figure intimate apparel company, today announced the launch of its 2012 spring collection. Featuring four new bra styles and fresh, seasonal colors for the line’s signature pieces, the Leading Lady spring collection is now available. Leading Lady intimate apparel can be purchased at Leading Lady’s e-boutique, and at select retailers nationwide.

For more than 70 years as a family owned and operated business, Leading Lady has been expertly tailoring comfortably functional, remarkably affordable, stylish and easy-to-wear nursing and full figure intimates. “We are excited to take our spring collection a step further by offering more styles and color options while maintaining the comfort, style and ideal fit that we know a Leading Lady wants,” said Mark Corrado, President of Leading Lady.

“The new looks in our spring line deliver fresh hues and sleek silhouettes that we can’t wait for our customers to fall in love with,” said Haidee Johnstone, Leading Lady’s Director of Design. “From fashion-forward camis to our new Santoni nursing bra, and the addition of a few bright pops of color and hints of lace, style starts underneath this spring.”

The Leading Lady Spring 2012 Collection features the following new styles:

Leading Lady Nursing Collection

Designed especially for new and expecting moms, Leading Lady’s nursing intimates provide excellent coverage, support, and easy access, with stylish and comfortable fit. The nursing collection – available in sizes from 34B to 48 F – takes moms from morning to night and every activity in between.

Santoni Softcup Nursing Bra (Style #477 – $34): Seamless, flexible and smooth, this nylon/spandex nursing style with a ribbed band features removable modesty pads.  This feminine style hugs curves while still affording nursing moms breathable comfort making it ideal for everyday and leisure activities. Color options include nude, black and white.  Sizes:  Medium, Large, XL, 2X

Square Neck Nursing Camisole (Style #4044 – $34): Nursing has never been simpler day or night with this heather grey and denim striped cotton/spandex cami featuring an internal nursing bra and adjustable straps.  The empire waist top and racer back design offer a stylish and sleek line in front and back.   Sizes:  Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2X

Leading Lady Full Figure Collection

Leading Lady’s full figure collection celebrates curves and helps women achieve their perfect fit. This essential wardrobe of wirefree and underwire bras for everyday, sport, lounge, special occasion and more is available in sizes from 38A to 56 DD/F/G.

Scallop Lace Cup Underwire Full Figure Bra (Style #5408 – $36): This sexy and stylish lace cup bra boasts a sweetheart neckline to compliment a curvy bustline.  The underwire provides extra support while the nylon/spandex/cotton materials offer flexibility and comfort for a variety of everyday activities and special occasions.  Color options include black lace over ivory and blush lace over nude.  Sizes:  40-46B; 38-46C; 36-44D, DD, DDD (available in late April)

Full Figure Lace Trim Camisole Bra (Style #5403 – $28): Flirty and fun, this cotton/spandex low-impact sport bra is piped with lace around the neckline and lower band.  Color options include:  heather gray with pink trim; black with black trim; heavenly blue with heavenly blue trim; and white with white trim.  Sizes:  Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X (available in late April)

Additionally, new spring colors will be available in the following signature styles:

Nylon/Spandex Wirefree Front-Closure Leisure Bra (Style #151 – $24): Periwinkle (available in late March)

Cotton/Spandex Wirefree Front-Closure Leisure Bra (Style #110 – $24): Peacock (available in mid April)

Crossover Front Wirefree Leisure Bra (Style #5048 – $32): White (available in May)

Pull On Full Figure Wirefree Sport Bra (Style #514 – $26): White Leopard Print (available in mid March)

For additional information, visit www.LeadingLady.com and follow Leading Lady on Facebook and Twitter.

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The New Year is a time for getting healthy in many ways.  For women, setting healthy expectations for our bodies should include taking care of our feminine assets, our breasts!   Consider the following guidelines when making choices for superior breast health this New Year:

Wear the Right Bra: It is essential to wear the right fitting bra – which you can determine by using Leading Lady’s fit calculator – and the right bra for your lifestyle needs.

Contrary to what you may have heard, underwire bras are not harmful to your breasts so if that is the style you prefer that gives you the best fit and the most support, go for it!

Leading Lady offers a variety of comfortable, supportive and stylish underwire bras in full figure and nursing styles.

Do not get caught up on size.  The right size bra for you is the size that fits best.

Breastfeeding: Not only is breastfeeding the best source of nutrients for your baby and a great way to bond with your little one, but it is also a long term gift to yourself.  According to Women’sHealth.gov, studies show that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and postpartum depression.

If you’re concerned about sagging from breastfeeding, you can take worry off your list.  The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that there are other causes for the loss of breast elasticity that creates sag, but not the increase in breast size due to milk.

Exercise: Exercise will help you strengthen your muscles to improve posture.  If your breasts are large, you could develop back pain from the pressure put on your back from the weight of your breasts.  A proper fitting sports bras (offered in both our full figure and nursing collections) that encapsulate and compress the breasts will prevent bounce and cause less strain and sag, but be sure you still have a full range of motion for your desired activity.

While you cannot exercise your way into less sagging (don’t you wish!) because there are no muscles in breasts, studies have shown that women who exercise regularly have a decreased change of developing breast cancer.

Alcohol, Caffeine and Smoking: Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption and smoking, all of which can cause painful lumps made by fibrous and glandular tissue.  While these lumps may not be cancerous, they often hurt and could cause you to overlook lumps that should be examined further.

Know Your Body: Some women are more prone to lumps and breast pain.  Know what is normal for you and seek help medical advice if you are seeing or feeling anything out of the ordinary.

Exams: Women of all ages should complete monthly self-breast exams 5 to10 days after the start of your period.  Your physician should also do a thorough yearly breast exam.  The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older should also have yearly mammograms.

As the Director of Design at Leading Lady, I cannot stress the importance of the right fit enough. Our fit obsessed design team at Leading Lady is making it our mission in 2012 to help women achieve their ideal bra fit.  And Leading Lady bras provide comfort and proper support for good breast and back health, so you will stand a little taller – both literally and figuratively!

Not only that, but a little lace, or a pop of color can instantly spice up your wardrobe. Ultimately it will help you look and feel better.

So how do you find the right bra size? Start by following these simple steps while wearing a bra. Be sure to keep your measuring tape level.

Band Size

1) Measure around the torso just under your arms but above your breasts.

2) If this measurement is an odd number, round it up to an even number. (If you know you are more comfortable in a smaller band width, round down.)

Cup Size

1) Measure around the fullest part of your bustline

2) Subtract the band size from the cup size.

3) Each 1 inch difference equals a cup size:

1” = A    2” = B    3” = C    4” = D   5” = E or DD

LeadingLady.com has additional fit tips and a fit calculator to assist in helping women find their accurate bra size. Remember, these tips are just a starting point. When trying on a bra, it is important to consider the overall fit including whether the breasts are fully contained, the band fits snugly to support the breasts, the back of the bra sits down on your back and the straps are positioned so they disperse weight evenly and do not slip off your shoulders.

Leading Lady’s bras are designed and sized with all of these fit guidelines in mind so women can achieve optimal bra fit for superior breast health. Additionally, most of Leading Lady’s bras have adjustable straps and 4 rows of hook adjustments to accommodate fit fluctuations.

If you find that your bra is becoming uncomfortable or tight, you know it is time to measure up, review the guidelines above and find a new one that feels right.

Just because you’ve been wearing the same size for years, doesn’t mean it is accurate. One of the worst mistakes I see women make is clinging to the perception of what size they are, should be or want to be.

The best fitting bra is always the best size for you. You may be surprised the difference that realizing your best bra fit will make in your health, appearance and attitude.  Essentially, New Year…New Bra…New You!

Happy New Year!

Haidee Johnstone

Executive Vice President and Director of Design

That’s right, ladies – AWARDS’ SEASON is upon us. We can’t wait to get swept up in glitz and glamour as we celebrate Hollywood’s biggest stars and best performances.

Those of us seriously dedicated to style will also be celebrating the hair, the jewels, the shoes, the handbags and of course – the dresses.  As we head into the Golden Globes, the SAG Awards and the Oscars, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite Leading Ladies’ best looks. And naturally, starting from the intimates out to create the ideal silhouette, should you be inclined to try their looks on for yourself!

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer blew critics and audiences away in this fall’s The Help, scoring both Golden Globe and SAG Award nominations for her stellar performance.  Octavia chooses sleek and interesting lines to compliment her figure, often drawing extra attention to her curves with a stylish belt.  She rocked a grey pleated dress with bell sleeves at the recent Women in Entertainment Breakfast, which would be complemented by Leading Lady’s molded padded seamless underwire full figure bra in nude.  If you prefer the stunning sheer black floor-length gown with the scalloped neckline she wore to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Governor’s Awards Dinner last November, Leading Lady’s scalloped lace underwire bra would match just perfectly.

Sofia Vergara

Her accent and antics have made the character Gloria a favorite among “Modern Family” fans, but Sofia Vergara’s curves may be just as popular as her comedy.  Case-in-point: this super flirty black lace overlay dress she wore to CNN’s “Heroes.” Ay-yay-yay! We would definitely work this look with Leading Lady’s scalloped lace underwire bra, which stays on trend with a bit of sheer lace and supports curves.  And for this low cut royal blue sweater she wore on EXTRA, we suggest Leading Lady’s front closure racer back bra.  We can’t wait to see what this Leading Lady wears on the red carpet as a nominee — Congratulations to Sofia for her Golden Globe and SAG Awards nominations!

Tina Fey

Now a mommy for the second time, Tina’s new little daughter Penelope joins 5-year-old Alice in having one of the funniest moms on the planet.  With countless Golden Globe and SAG nominations and wins already under her belt, Tina is back for more this Awards’ Season. Ms. Fey is a Globe and SAG nominee for the always hilarious “30 Rock.”  This fall, just five weeks after giving birth to Penelope, Tina chose clean lines and a gorgeous silhouette to dazzle at the 2011 Emmys. To replicate this hot mama’s look, we would recommend Leading Lady’s lace cup wirefree bra under an all-black ensemble. Should a little lace from your bra peek out, it will make your look even more flirtatious.  For a pop of color like the fitted pink dress Tina wore on the April 2011 InStyle cover, we would recommend Leading Lady’s molded seamless wirefree nursing bra for a smooth foundation.

As all fashionistas know, sometimes it’s the accessories that make the outfit.  Accessories can turn casual jeans and a t-shirt into a sassy, chic ensemble, and transform that little black dress into va-va-voom in black. Adding a pop of color, a hint of bling, or a peak of lace can update your wardrobe, while a new hairdo or day-to-night make-up can add drama. Best of all? These little touches are affordable ways to embrace your most fashionable self.  We’ve put together the top accessory trends in each vital category for this holiday season so you can jazz up any outfit for your festive outings.

Makeup:  Yes, makeup is an accessory, as long as it is not worn as a mask.  We believe makeup should enhance your natural beauty, not disguise it and turn you into someone you are not.  For this holiday season, add a dash of twinkle to your lips and eyes to let everyone know you’ve got holiday spirit.  Silver, frosted lipstick is the “in” shade and matches just about any outfit.  Also add sparkle to your eyes with any shimmery shade of eye shadow, either on the full lid or just above your liner.

Hair:  Whether wearing your hair up or down, the poof is back.  Tease a bump on the crown of your head and you’ll feel like a princess this holiday.  Use this style for ponytails, buns or even down styles.  Be sure to sleek back the hair over the poof for a clean line.

Jewelry:  While all sorts of bling can add wow to your holiday look, a bold cuff bracelet is hot this year.  As you’re sipping and toasting, your vibrant bracelet will surely draw attention.  But let the bracelet do its job and don’t overload with other big jeweled pieces that take away from the main attraction…you!

Hats:  You’ve probably noticed by now that the fedora is “in” in a big way.  From solids, to pin stripes, to prints, the fedora is a classy way to make a statement.  And no need to take off your hat when you arrive, this is a topper you can wear all day long.

Shoes:  Sometimes the need to be fashionable is more important than comfort.  And sometimes both collide in the most flattering way, such as the flat riding boot trend.  You can wear these sexy, comfortable boots with just about anything:  dresses, skirts, over jeans, under slacks.  But we suggest avoiding them with cocktail and formal attire!

Bags:  A bold bag can be a statement unto itself.  For dressier occasions, add a richly colored or sparkly clutch to spice up your cocktail attire or even dressy jeans.  For more casual outings or even while traveling this holiday season, cross body bags are the way to go.  But choose something fun that is also useful, such as a lively print or unique wool, corduroy or glossy texture.

Bras: And of course the most important accessory (at least according to us!) is your bra.  Whether stepping out for a fancy party or night on the town, or lounging at home while on vacation, having a comfortable, supportive, stylish bra is essential.  For plunging necklines, try our molded padded seamless, front closure racer back or seamless racer back bras.  If you want to be a little naughty, let a sliver of lace peek out with our scalloped lace bra.  And for keeping it causal while running errands or enjoying family time at home, our molded seamless wirefree bra or cotton front closure leisure bra should be the perfect fit.

And it’s just that easy!  So let your accessories do the talking and you’ll be the trendy envy at all of your holiday parties.  We wish you a very happy and fashionable holiday season!

Whether your holiday plans include your annual office party, a family gathering or a hot New Year’s Eve date, you’ll want to add that hint of style to brighten the occasion. This season’s holiday trends are bold, vivid and playful. It may be cold outside but that’s all the more reason for you to look HOT, from your intimates — out. Our fit and fashion experts have created bra pairings — coupling Leading Lady’s perfect intimates with the seasons most wow-worthy looks — to ensure you look your best. Oh, and did we mention we’ll keep you comfortable, confident and supported to bring out the best in your holiday outfits and attitude? We will. Just read on…

Play Dress Up: Gone are the days of dressing down to dress up. The cocktail dress is back in a big way for, you guessed it, cocktail parties. Baby doll silhouettes, one shoulder frocks and 3/4 sleeve dresses are all great choices this holiday. Our stylists recommend pairing your cocktail dress with Leading Lady’s lace cup crossover front closure racer back bra, which will create a smooth line in both front and back.

Excuse Hue: Bright and bold colors are hot this year. When you and your wardrobe are in the mood to “Deck the Halls,” get decked out in poinsettia red, emerald green and glittery gold, or switch it up with rich royal blue or a hot pink that will warm even the chilliest of nights. Start the trend under your clothes by donning a matching bra. Leading Lady’s molded padded seamless bras in underwire or wirefree come in a variety of colors to match whatever holiday hue you select.

Glitz & Glam: Holiday lights are not the only things that should twinkle this season. Sequins and shiny fabrics are trends to try, from sparkly dresses to twinkly shoes and iridescent bags. A word of caution to the glitter enthusiasts — be careful not to over dazzle. Stick to the “one shiny object is enough” rule, and who knows? A little glitter to your wardrobe may also bring out some of your inner sparkle. Our stylists and fit team suggest pairing this look with a classic molded padded seamless bra or our lace cup crossover front closure racer back bra, depending on the style and cut of your ensemble.

Black & White…And Any Combo Thereof: Dust off that little black dress and take her for a spin because she is “in” again. Jazz up the LBD with jeweled accessories (like an oversized cocktail ring or chunky necklace), flashy pumps and a sassy clutch. And black & white includes all of the shades in between like faded black, charcoal grey and winter white. Our stylists are not just talking solids here, ladies — mix it up and try these classic hues in plaids, polka dots and other contrasting patterns. Keep it comfortable underneath with Leading Lady’s lightly molded crossover leisure bra, which comes in both black and white, naturally.

Veiled Sexiness: Playing peek-a-boo with your silhouette is both a sexy and sophisticated look for this holiday season. We’re talking sheer, yet modest looks like chiffon blouses, lacy skirts and even see through stripes, all paired with a complimentary cami or bra. Choose to rock the same color on the top and bottom layers to be sure you are fully covered. The key to upping the chic is selecting a form fitting under layer that is still form fitting enough to show off your curves. Speaking of peek-a-booing, check out our super chic scalloped lace underwire bra that shows a touch of skin and a lovely sweetheart bustline while still offering support and coverage. If you’re feeling so bold, try letting a hint of lace peek out. But just a hint — our stylists recommend leaving the rest to imagination, or your lucky partner!

Whichever styles suit you best this holiday season, remember that every festive outfit starts with fabulous intimates. From bra to toe, your holiday look should make you feel like the self-assured fashionista that you are.

Happy Holidays from Your Fit and Style Team at Leading Lady!

After the turkey and stuffing are put away and you’ve had just about as much family bonding as you can stand, fashionistas like you across the country will be thankful that the other special day has finally arrived…”Black Friday!” But are you really ready for the best fashion holiday of the year? No doubt you’ve mapped out your shopping strategy and you’ve collected all of your successful shopping gear. Surely you’ll be wearing your most slip off-again/on-again clothes, sporting your most comfy heels, you’ve memorized the mall directory and you’ve got water bottle in hand. But what will you wear underneath to be prepared for all of those adorably chic, awesomely sexy, fabulously priced clothes you MUST try on?

A great bra that is versatile with a variety of clothes is one of the most important tools for the professional “Black Friday” shopper. Think about it: You’ll be trying on a range of clothes from festively cute (yet not too revealing) holiday outfits for your family and work parties; to sexy and sweet (or not-so-sweet) pajamas for Christmas morning; to your New Years Eve cocktail dress. It is essential that your bra works well with all sorts of outfits so you truly know how the clothes fit.

The perfect solution is a seamless bra that will support your dash to the sales, be comfortable for the long day ahead and work under almost anything you try on. Leading Lady’s molded wirefree seamless full figure bra, which also comes in a front closure version, is an excellent choice. If you tend to wear tops that are lower cut or you want more built-in structure, try the molded padded seamless full figure bra in either wirefree or underwire.

Enjoy your fashion feast. Get tipsy on those sales. Surround yourself with brands you love and cherish. And be prepared for it all by starting with the perfect bra for this most important fashion occasion.

Happy “Black Friday”…..oh, and Happy Thanksgiving, too!

On September 8, 2011, plus-sized fashionistas everywhere are invited to attend one of the premiere events of the season, catered specifically to them!

“Fashion’s Night Out PLUS,” a plus-size version of Vogue’s annual “After Hours Shopping Extravaganza,” will take over the streets of Alexandria, Virginia with upscale events and great shopping! Various celebrities and designers will mingle with the public and share the best that fashion has to offer in a “style crawl” type atmosphere.

An assortment of fabulous boutiques will offer their newest lines as well as great, one night only deals on previous collections. Shopping will be open to all from 6-11pm as well as a Full Figured Fashion Showcase.

BeautyFull Boutique will host this year’s inaugural celebration. It is located at 118 N. Fayette Street, Alexandria, VA. If you live in the DC Metro Area, we recommend you stop by. You may just find your inner trendsetter!