New Year, new bra wardrobe

Never mind the January detox and the gym membership – how about a New Year’s resolution to make 2007 the year you finally get your bra wardrobe together? No more black-lace-bra-under-white-t-shirt disasters; kit yourself out with figleaves.com sizing expert Kate Horrell’s recommendations and you’ll never have to waste valuable getting-dressed time scrabbling around for the right bra again.

Everyday bras

“We recommend a small stock of everyday bras in black, white and nude so that you can avoid wearing the same bra two days in a row. One of these should be a t-shirt bra – indispensable whenever you need a smooth line under fitted clothes.”

above left, Chantelle Body Sculpt t-shirt bra, £34, right, Calvin Klein Perfectly Fit Mesh bra, £27

Speciality bras

“However good your everyday bra, it just won’t cut it with a strapless dress or a plunging neckline. Invest in a cleavage bra to wear with low necklines, as well as a strapless or multiway bra for invisible support under your party frock.”

above, left, Wonderbra Multi Plunge bra, £26, and Panache Venus strapless bra, £27

Sports bras

“If you do any kind of sport, a sports bra is essential – otherwise, you risk not only discomfort but also permanent sagging.”

above, left, Shock Absorber sports bra, £22, and Anita Rosa Faia sports bra, £25

Special occasion bras

“Great looking lingerie can have a tremendous feelgood effect. Treat yourself to an indulgent lingerie set, complete with lace, embroidery, ribbons or ruching, for those special occasions when you want to feel your best.”