It’s May, it’s warm and sunny outside, and my mind is turning to potential destinations for a summer getaway – and the swimwear I could be rocking while I’m there of course!
One option I certainly wouldn’t mind having in my suitcase is NAIA Beach, a British brand that was launched in 2021 by TV personality Tess Daley and her long-time friend, Gayle Lawton. Both lovers of fashion and travel, it was on joint trip to St Tropez that they first had the idea to design a collection together, after a shopping excursion saw them struggle to find styles with just the right amount of coverage: not too skimpy, but not too frumpy either.
With NAIA Beach, their mission is to inspire confidence in every woman who wears their designs. Going for a ‘subtle glamour’ kind of vibe, their creations offer timeless and ageless shapes, golden hardware accents on every piece for an elevated feel, and a strong emphasis on delivering a flattering fit.
Both founders are experienced models, but it’s Gayle in particular who has worked extensively as a fit model for other swim and resort wear brands, through which she absorbed a very a technical understanding of what makes a swimsuit fit well. All new NAIA Beach designs are fit-tested and tweaked at least five times unless both women are satisfied they’ve achieved the perfect pattern, one that will make the wearer feel great the second she puts it on.
NAIA Beach swimsuits and bikinis all feature hidden support, but they’ve gone even further than that to create their own Subtle Sculpt® fabric too. Used for selected one-pieces, it’s engineered to provide a very comfortable smoothing effect that feels like a second skin rather than being overly tight and restrictive. Because you don’t want to feel like you’re wearing shapewear when you’re trying to chill by the pool!
One of the brand’s top sellers is the Selene swimsuit, a Subtle Sculpt® design with a very unique neckline that looks like a halter from the front, yet still incorporates wide-strapped support at the back. Other designs incorporate details such as removable straps, adjustable knots, customizable neckline ties, or functional zips that allow you to choose whether or not to flaunt some cleavage, so you always get exactly the look and fit that you’re after.
A personal favorite of mine from a design standpoint is the Raquel swimsuit, part of NAIA Beach’s sustainable collection which uses 73% recycled nylon, obtained from post-consumer plastic and worn-out fishing nets. Dripping in gold details at the front and with a striking open back that’s adorned with a decorative gold ring where you’d usually find some kind of fastening, it definitely makes a statement!
There’s also a coordinating bikini set called Phoebe. Named after one of Daley’s daughters whose input helped to shape the design of the Raquel one-piece – which went on to become another bestseller – this too weaves together large gold rings with gold-colored fabric strapping in a way that’s very ‘ancient Grecian luxe’ in SS25’s new white colorway.
The NAIA Beach range also includes an array of versatile, beach-to-bar cover-ups in coordinating prints or classic beach favorites such as crochet. For a slightly smarter though still very relaxed look, I adore the Martinique shirt and shorts set, crafted from ultra-fine cotton with a beautiful sheen and finished with signature touches of gold for added glamour.
Despite launching during a global pandemic and resulting travel ban – not exactly ideal for a swimwear brand – these stylish, thoughtfully-fitted designs were well-received right from the start, and last year the design duo even won Best New Brand at the Drapers Independents Awards.
NAIA Beach is available in US sizes 2-14. Bikini separates run from $70 to $125, while one-piece swimsuits and cover-ups will set you back between $100 and $255.
The esteemed Canadian lingerie brand, 
Elevate your experience with this thoughtfully designed piece, which combines beauty and functionality for a truly exceptional look. Available in Dusk Blue and Soft Beige in sizes 30-44* C-J and 32-38 K (*up to 42 in beige).
Customers Asked. 
The Bliss Panty collection has long been a shining star in the Natori constellation. Customers love the Pima cotton comfort and feminine detail found in the French Cut, Girl Brief and Full Brief styles. Now, the brand expands this core assortment adding the Bliss Bare. Why? To answer the call of new customers who prefer a more minimalistic aesthetic and are seeking a cleaner lace-free option for everyday wear. Adding additional silhouettes to the established basics, Bliss Bare provides a Hipster, Thong, High Cut Leg and a High Waist Brief. Available in 6 colors and adhering to the same soft, comfortable fit for which the Bliss original essentials are known (XS-XXL), Bliss Bare is destined to become key item basics.
Cloud Comfort has entered the Natori repertoire. This everyday T-shirt bra is designed in a soft, ultra-light breathable interlock fabric that delivers reliable support, great stretch recovery, and smoothing where it matters. Created with all the technical details for which Natori is known, this full coverage bra ranges in sizes from 30-40 B-H cups. Available in 3 colors it embodies Natori’s commitment to comfort with purpose.
Love Lace redefines what lace can do providing beauty and function in one design. Natori embraces their iconic plunge silhouette adding a floral lace pattern that covers the molded stretch cups creating a seamless allure. Extra wide sides and back enhances comfort and fit for 30-40, B-H cups. Available in 3 colors this bra blends femininity and practicality reinforcing the Natori definition of luxury lingerie.
Inspired by the brand’s bestselling side support frame, this underwire molded non padded bra is engineered with a wide wire and inner 3-piece cups that reveal minimal seam show through. It is designed with a soft flat lace that covers the outer cups, and a flexible elastic along the neckline that accommodates multiple breast shapes. Pair it with the matching full brief (XS-2XL) for a complete set.
Rosaline Mystique Full Coverage Underwire 
Fashion Wire Free Bra 
Flirty Chemise Babydoll Set 
Rosaline Bodysuit 
Pair your Rosaline Bras with the matching Brief 
In these chaotic times how do we find comfort? Deliver everyday support, long term reliability and 
The Norah Comfort Full Coverage T-Shirt Bra is an ultra-light spacer bra whose jacquard cups mirror the Norah signature lace pattern. Integrating seamlessly with the deliciously soft knit lined lace wings and back, the bra provides sustained lift and all-day dependability. Incorporating the construction and fit features that has sustained the Norah collection on an upward trajectory, the new Norah Comfort Spacer bra has positioned itself as an everyday essential for sizes 30-42, B-I cups.
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Understanding Chest Surgeries & Breast Reconstruction: A Guide for Bra Fitters
By Dana Donofree, owner of AnaOno
Bra fitters play a crucial role in helping individuals feel comfortable, confident, and supported in their intimate apparel. For those who have undergone chest or breast surgeries, finding the right bra isn’t just about fit—it’s about understanding their bodies, their choices, and their needs. The terminology behind breast and chest surgeries can often feel overwhelming, but as a bra fitter, having a foundational understanding allows you to better serve your customers with empathy and expertise.
Why People Choose Chest or Breast Surgery
People undergo breast or chest surgeries for various reasons—some are medically necessary, some are medically driven, and others are personal choices. These surgeries can be reconstructive, aesthetic, or gender-affirming, and each individual has unique motivations for their decision. As a fitter, recognizing these different journeys ensures that you can guide your customer toward the best options for their post-surgical comfort and lifestyle.
Understanding Different Surgical Procedures
Reconstructive Breast Surgeries
For those who have faced a breast cancer diagnosis or other medical conditions requiring mastectomy, reconstructive options vary, and not all involve implants.
- Implant Reconstruction: Uses silicone or saline implants to restore breast shape after mastectomy. Customers may experience changes in sensation or asymmetry, and comfort-focused, wire-free bras are often ideal.
- Flap Reconstruction (Autologous Tissue Reconstruction): Uses the patient’s own tissue from areas like the abdomen (DIEP, TRAM), back (Latissimus Dorsi), or thighs (PAP, TUG) to recreate the breast shape. These procedures often leave scars in multiple areas, and bras with soft, smooth linings can help minimize irritation.
- Goldilocks Procedure: A lesser-known option where remaining breast tissue is used to create a natural mound without implants. This option can leave different contours than traditional reconstruction, so finding the right cup shape is key.
- Fat Grafting: Fat is transferred from another part of the body to help enhance volume, symmetry, or smooth out irregularities. Soft, adaptable bras are beneficial for those undergoing multiple fat grafting sessions.
Aesthetic & Cosmetic Breast Surgeries
Not all breast surgeries are cancer-related. Some individuals choose aesthetic procedures to address natural asymmetry, volume loss, or personal preference.
- Breast Augmentation (Implants): Enhances size and shape with silicone or saline implants. Supportive bras with gentle compression help maintain shape and reduce movement post-surgery.
- Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty): Reduces breast size to alleviate discomfort or for aesthetic reasons. Customers may seek structured, supportive bras to accommodate changes in breast weight and positioning.
- Mastopexy (Breast Lift): Lifts and reshapes the breast, often paired with augmentation or reduction. Bras with molded cups or side support can help maintain the new breast shape.
- Aesthetic Flat Closure: A choice for those who opt out of breast reconstruction post-mastectomy, creating a smooth, contoured chest. Flat-fit bras, soft camis, or pocketed bras (for optional breast forms) are great options.
Gender-Affirming & Chest Surgeries
For individuals undergoing gender-affirming procedures, finding gender-appropriate, affirming undergarments is essential.
- Top Surgery (Masculinizing Mastectomy): Removes breast tissue to create a flatter, more masculine chest. Post-surgical compression binders are commonly used initially, transitioning to soft, wire-free bras or compression-free garments for long-term comfort.
- Breast Augmentation (Feminizing Surgery): For transgender women or non-binary individuals seeking breast implants. Post-surgical bras with light compression and soft fabric can support healing and enhance comfort.
Helping Customers Find the Right Fit
Understanding these procedures allows bra fitters to meet customers with knowledge and compassion. Here’s how to provide the best experience:
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of assuming, ask, “What kind of support or style feels best for you?”
- Know Your Styles: Offer wire-free, pocketed, compression, or adaptive options to meet varying needs.
- Consider Scar Placement & Sensitivity: Reconstructed, augmented, or flat closures all have unique considerations for band placement, fabric softness, and adjustability.
- Respect Personal Preferences: Some customers may want bras that reflect their pre-surgery style, while others may seek entirely new designs.
As bra fitters, you are more than just experts in size and fit—you are a source of support for individuals navigating their post-surgery journey. By understanding the diverse landscape of breast and chest surgeries, you can provide every customer with the dignity, confidence, and comfort they deserve. Whether they have implants, choose to go flat, or have undergone gender-affirming surgery, your knowledge and empathy make all the difference in their lingerie experience.
Read More Articles About Breast Health in Dana Donofree’s Column on Lingerie Briefs
