Lingerie Fabric Selections
Contour- A Contour fabric selection is typically thick, designed to conceal the nipple and shape the breast. Contour bras present a soft, rounded appearance under all fabrics, even form fitting or clingy garments. Many contour bras are considered seamless, without any lines or seaming present on the cup. A "t-shirt bra" is constructed of contoured fabric. Empreinte's most popular Contour Bra is the Empreinte Iva Plunge Bra.
Embroidery- European lingerie is famous for embroidered details. Many Empreinte collections boast beautifully embroidery. Embroidery is sewn over mesh to reveal an intricate and beautiful raised design. Embroidery adds a touch of class and elegance, even with the most subtle details..
Guipure- Guipure is a type of lace embroidery that calls on an incredibly intricate sewing practice, requiring a high level of skill and technical chops. Guipure lace is thread through thin paper and chemically dissolved after sewing to reveal a casing of embroidered lace. Guipure embroidery is extremely sturdy and supportive, making it a great fabric option of constructing bras. The Empreinte Diva Collection is entirely made from guipure lace.
Lace- Lace is a preferred fabric choice for many Empreinte collections. Lace garments are woven from cotton, silk or sometimes synthetic thread into an open-weave pattern. Though there are many types of lace, the most common found in lingerie is a bobbin/Chantilly lace, which creates a detailed, outlined design; crocheted lace, which creates flowing lines, scalloped edging and sometimes a "netted" appearance. Lace can be found on every area of the bra, even sewn over contour cups or affixed to shoulder straps. A lace construction is sturdy, supportive and keeps its shape, making it a wonderful selection for plus sized bras and lingerie.
Mesh- Mesh is a partially sheer, tightly woven knit fabric. Bras made mostly of mesh provide a comfortable "give" for the breast tissue. Mesh is a light, airy fabric, meant to feel cool and dry on the body. Many molded cups are constructed with mesh and have seaming in place to conceal the nipple. Mesh fabrics give any piece of lingerie a sexy look.
Microfiber/Fiber Fill- Microfiber construction is most often found in Seamless T-shirt Bras. Microfiber is a synthetic fabric, commonly made from a cotton polyester blend. A microfiber bra provides a smooth, sleek feel against the skin and is nearly invisible under clothing. Microfiber Bras are durable, keep their shape and wick moisture from the body. A microfiber bra that is lightly lined with fiber fill will conceal the nipple and create a rounded, well-supported silhouette. Try the Empreinte Thalia Contour Plunge Bra or Contour Bra from the Melody Collection for a smooth, sleek microfiber bra.
Sheer- Sexy, yet functional, sheer fabrics show off a little skin. Bras with sheer fabric cosntruction are usually double reinforced and sewn with complex seams to support and lift the breasts. Fit and support are not compromised because of this fabric construction. Most molded cup/darted seam bras are constructed of sheer fabrics.
Tulle- Once used for underskirts and petticoats, now used for elegant, sexy bras and panties. Tulle, commonly referred to as netting, is a soft, tightly spun fabric, usually made from fine silk, cotton or nylon. It provides a light, airy feel and is usually only part of a garment's overall construction. Tulle is a supportive agent in a bra, as it is taut and keeps the breasts supported and in place. You will typically find tulle on a molded cup or multi-paneled bra.
