Most of the time, I love my small bust. It’s petite and practical, and doesn’t give me any back issues. I can’t complain. But every once in a while, I wish there was a little more oomph. You know… a little bit of cleavage. I used to think that was an impossibility. In fact, I’d entirely resigned to the fact that it would just never happen. It was a perfectly logical conclusion given the shape and size of them, right?

Wrong. One hundred percent, flat out wrong. This bra borders on magical. It’s a little intimidating at first, as it comes with instructions on how to put it on (lean over, clip, scoop, adjust straps), but once you do it successfully you’ll be using this method (or some personalized variation of it) for putting on all of your bras. The fit was great, and my favorite part about it was the thick band. There’s a sense of structure when everything is held in, and it has a smoothing effect, eliminating any lines you’d normally see across your back caused by a tight bra.

I’d highly recommend Poison Lingerie to ladies with small busts who want to kick it up a notch. And while I’m no full bust blogger, I’d imagine that the craftsmanship and quality of these undergarments would offer great support to women with full cups. It’s definitely the most supportive and structured undergarment I own. If you were thinking about trying a Poison bra, I’d say the cups run true to size and bands run a bit large. With a band that wide, I could probably wear a 28B or 30B without having to worry about those unsightly indentations across my back.

A question for my small bust ladies: do you own any uplifting bras you love? Do tell!

This bra was sent to me by Poison Lingerie, but I reviewed it of my own accord and was not otherwise compensated.

This feature has been months in the making. I first fell in love with Anaïs and her designs at the inaugural Lingerie Fashion Week. We met for a showroom visit in April, but Anaïs forgot the keys … oops! Instead, we wound up at an adorable cookies and coffee joint in Greenpoint, one of my favorite Brooklyn neighborhoods, and talked about everything—from marketing to Paris to lingerie. Of course, I eventually did pay a visit to her studio and tried on almost everything in her inventory and left with this lovely bodysuit.

NaïS is a brand that’s designed to transition easily between innerwear and outerwear. Anaïs mentioned that in Paris, where she’s from, women are obsessed with matchy matchy lingerie. I can identify strongly with this sentiment. In fact, I will rarely buy a bra without it’s bottom half, but according to her experience, stateside urban women in the are much more prone to mix and match. Apparently I belong in Paris!

As it were, the collection was designed with the modern American city girl in mind. She’s a career woman and has very little time to fuss over outfits, often wearing practical and ever-stylish layers, or dressing with the intention of bringing a boudoir feel to the everyday look, Carrie Bradshaw style. And does Anaïs ever deliver! This bodysuit has a practical hatch at the bottom, perfect for pairing with a full midi skirt (wouldn’t white be beautiful?) or even a pair of daisy dukes. But it’s also fine on its own, whether you’re layering over lingerie or going for a more daring, entirely sheer option. The elegant back plunge is just the right amount of icing on the cupcake.

Oh, and she got me to try a color other than black, white or gray. Further proof of the Anaïs magic touch!

Bodysuit: NaïS Lingerie / Bra and Panty Set: Bazsarózsa Lingerie

Photography by Lydia Hudgens

Designers Bonnie and Shelah, photo by Embry Rucker

Who or what inspired you to pursue lingerie design as a career?

Since we were in our teens, we have dreamed of starting a lingerie line… we always loved how something you can wear that is so small and often discrete can make you feel so sexy, confident and beautiful! We started really talking about the idea a few years ago and started putting pen to paper on the concept in early 2012.

Your lingerie is different and truly geared as an innerwear as outerwear brand, which I love. Tell us about how you came to design such a unique collection.

We designed the collection to be very versatile… every piece can be worn in the home, in the bedroom or out in public as layering pieces or simply stand-alone fashion statements!  All our bras are designed to be seen under low scoop tanks or dresses, our leggings can be worn as “leggings” or as a fun piece under a shorter dress.  Our slips can all be worn as sexy home pieces or as cover ups, layered or hidden. Growing up on the island of Kauai has absolutely influenced our overall design aesthetics, we really lived in bikinis and tiny cover-ups… it was about showing skin.  We have taken this same approach to our lingerie designs, it’s a part of who we are.

Every entrepreneur has to take a leap of faith when it comes to venturing out on her own (or with a partner). What were/are your biggest fears?

Good question!  YES, a leap of faith absolutely.  Our biggest fear is the fear of the unknown and of course that NOE Undergarments would just simply not work, that people wouldn’t get it and that maybe we we’re being too different.  All the time you see start-ups fail… it’s risky, especially in fashion!   For us it came down to a time where we started taking the first steps of “exploring + dreaming” of developing NOE Undergarments and then we came to a fork in the road, we either had to turn right and go full steam ahead and not look back or end the idea all together.  Our hearts were both in it 110% and we decided to take that big turn… Since that point we’ve not looked back but only far forward, each day giving our utmost positive energy, focus and dedication to making this dream a reality!

How do you work together: is one sister creative and one business? Do tell!

Our partnership is a bit unique. Being twins, we’re extremely close even though at times we may not be at the same place. Bonnie is based out of Laguna Beach and I live most of the time in Kauai, we often do much of our conversation via video chat and as you probably imagine our phone bills are quite high! However, we get together often, every other month Bonnie is either here on Kauai or I’m over in Laguna and we’re collaborating.  We see this double location as an advantage for the brand, we get two experiences and have two touch points. We often start with our individual inspiration and then we meet… more times than not we end up having ideas that are crazy similar… even down to the colors! We honestly both work hand in hand in almost every aspect of our business from design to strategy to marketing to even the business financial aspects… we feel two minds are better than one!

One of core missions of that je ne sais quoi is to make women feel beautiful with lingerie as a starting point, and I feel that NOE is the perfect line for this. Can you tell us a little bit about how you think lingerie empowers women?

We could not agree with you more. We see our lingerie as an inner armor for outer empowerment, and believe that every woman should be able to harness this same sense of liberation when they put on one of our pieces. Whether you’re wearing one of our bustiers’ under a business suit working in NYC, putting on a bra and panty for bedroom fun or lounging on a beach in Hawaii with one of the sheer slips covering your bikini, it’s about feeling confident, strong and empowered by these intimate pieces. NOE Undergarments is about making the woman wearing these pieces feel sexy, confident and beautiful… it’s for her, no one else!

It’s important to me that pieces are designed and manufactured locally—how does NOE accomplish this?

Yes, this is very important to us as well, thus the reason we are proud to say ALL of our pieces are made here in the US.  It may be a little more expensive, yes, but there are a few reasons we have chosen to keep our line produced locally: 1) We love our country and have always made it a priority to support USA Made goods in our lives, so it really was a no-brainer when we started NOE Undergarments that no matter what it would be produced in the states; 2) With our production staying in the US, we can be very hands on with all stages, we’re perfectionists and having the connection point for quality, fit and ensuring each piece is perfect is very important to us and the identity of NOE Undergarments!

There is leather in your collection, which makes me an automatic fan. How did you incorporate this amazing fabric into an intimates line but still keep a feminine aesthetic?

We love leather!!  From the very beginning we knew incorporating leather into our collections would be a constant foundation pillar and an identifiable attribute to build on for each season. For the AW13 collection we use very unique leather in our lingerie, a dull Napalan lambskin from Italy that is very thin and has a matte raw but supple finish. We back all our leather pieces with a soft mesh that creates comfort and makes the piece very wearable and breathable. We incorporate our leather with amazing silks/elastics/hardware and designs and create clean + simple lines… It has that feminine/masculine + hard/soft feel which is the base of our style!

What did you each do in life before coming up with NOE?

Kauai has always been base camp for me, although I have been fortunate enough to spend much of the years prior to NOE traveling.  Exploring cultures, arts, fashion from around the world has really priceless with creating a great foundation with NOE Undergarments.
-Shelah

In terms of life, traveled, explored and have been a bit of a girl who lives out of her suitcase.  In terms of career, I worked as the global Women’s Director of Marketing for a swim and street/action fashion label, Volcom.  I also recently graduated with my MBA from the University of California, Irvine.  All of these experiences have really helped to prepare me for the challenges and excitement of developing NOE Undergarments.
–Bonnie

You’re California and Hawaii girls, but I think your aesthetic is pretty New York! What was the influence behind your first collection?

In general our biggest influences come from our travels and cultural experiences. Bonnie and I have been so fortunate to travel around the world, this is something that has come to life in the designs. Growing up in Kauai has also influenced our overall aesthetic… it’s really led to develop a minimalistic feel to the collection… no frills or unneeded design elements but rather simple, clean and straight to the point!

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

I think the best advice we’ve ever received was from our Dad… while growing up he always instilled in us that if we set our mind to it, anything is possible and don’t let risk scare you. This advice has always given us a huge sense of confidence… life is a little scary, especially with starting something new and making changes, however if you don’t dive in you’ll never have the chance to even see an outcome, either good or bad. Life is short and we need to make the most of it, better to try to make a dream come true than to sit back and merely think of it!

What is the NOE woman like? Where does she work? What does she do in her spare time? What does she value?

The woman who wears NOE Undergarments is strong and willing to take risks by not following trends but merely setting her own.  She loves to feel sexy and beautiful for herself and that is why she is beyond attractive. At the same time she is understatedly simple and finds interest in clean lines, uncomplicated garments and takes pride in noticing the little details of things, whether it be in her daily life, the people she is with or her style. When you meet her in person, you love this woman and become completely touched by this contagious confidence and beauty… this is the NOE woman!

What is your style signature and who is your style muse?

Our style sense is very similar, I bet you could have guessed that! Shelah is a bit more into accessories, she loves jewelry… more the better (laughing!).  Shelah lives in big earrings, loves to load on the bracelets and have rings on almost every finger, her go to day-to-day is one-of-a thousand sheer worn tanks, a cute bra (often the Ryan Bustier) and a good ol’ pair of Levis.  Bonnie is a bit more “city-esque” and minimalistic in her sense of style, she loves a tailored jacket, slouchy pants and a good pair of boots… melt these two styles together and you get NOE!  Our style muse, toughie! We adore Rhianna, her take-charge attitude with her fashion choices, not being afraid to step outside of the box… she is so empowering!

What NOE pieces do you love and wear the most?

It’s so hard to say but my favorite piece is probably the Ryan bustier bra and Ryan Brazilian panty… I love the structure of the bra and particularly the fit of the underwire cups… it’s the perfect piece to wear under tanks and show some sexiness (and love it as a set for the bedroom)!
–Bonnie

1. Ryan Bustier Bra //  2. Levi’s //  3. Acne boots  // 4.  Helmut Lang structured jacket

Oh I love the whole collection but if I had to choose… probably the Zachary bodysuit, the neckline and back elastic detail is so chic and unique to our line, it’s the perfect piece to use as a base layer for any sheer top or oversized tee or sweater!
–Shelah

1. Jason Wu dress // 2. Zachary Bodysuit // 3. Jamie Lynn, favorite artist // 4. Golden Goose boots

What’s a weird/fun fact about each of you?

Nice question…hahaha. Ok, seriously, I like to dance around the house listening to the Korean rapper’s song ‘Gangnam Style’ with my little boys—you know, the typical jumping off couches, getting on the floor to roll around and pretend to break-dance, getting up on counters to finish off a little head-bangin… the typical stuff )
–Shelah

Okay, let’s see… My favorite thing to do is get into nature and out of anything man-made.  I’ll go with my husband on camp trips and our goal is to find a place that is as far away from anyone else as possible, only nature. When we got married we decided to skip the whole big wedding thing and rather we packed up his truck, drove to the Sierra Mountains, got married at the oldest courthouse in the state of California at this tiny 200-person town of Bridgeport and then went and camped for 4 days in the middle of the mountains!  It was total heaven!
–Bonnie

What is a day in the life of NOE like?

Oh my gosh, every day is so different…. Today was 8:15 conference call with us to go over tradeshow ideas for the SP14 Lingerie Collective Show were doing in August (Shelah was up early, 5:15am Hawaii time), followed by checking on e-commerce orders and doing some fun lovely social postings, then a quick trip to our studio in LA to do some AW13 production QC along with picking up some new Riri zipper samples. I was back to our Laguna office by 4pm just in time to get a quick trail run in and then back to emails!
–Bonnie

I’m not going to lie…. a typical day with me is pretty busy! Every minute of my day is mixed up with a variety of to-dos with NOE Undergarments and a little personal time squeezed in too. I wake up between 5:30 and 6 and start work phone calls and emails, usually the first being with Bonnie, I then try to go for a run and clear my head (and usually that is where I get a good flow of creative ideas coming in). I get to back to my home office at about 8:30-9:00 am and jump into the daily juggle of various NOE projects outlined for the day, whether it is scouting out models for an upcoming shoot, reviewing production deadlines, or simply coming up with new FB content. Every day is about balance and I’m still trying to find my rhythm!
–Shelah

Last book you read?

The last book I read was The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. I read it with my little one just this morning. I read this book often, it’s such a special and tender story, a constant reminder of what is important and what is very much not.  This book was actually a gift to one of my boys from Bonnie, … LOL, yes we are always in-sync with each other!
–Shelah

I’m reading We are All Weird by Seth Godin right now, amazing… I’m a total Seth Godin fan but for some reason have never read this book. I’m nearly finished and it’s amazing… “The weird sets an example for the rest of us” is my favorite quote from the book so far!  I love weirdness, I love abnormality!
–Bonnie

Three things every woman should have in her closet?
We both agree 3 things every woman needs in her closet would be:
-A good pair of Levis
-A great fitting leather jacket
-NOE Undergarment lingerie set of course!!

And most importantly, what’s in store (colors, fabrics, silhouettes?) for your next collection?! 

Yes, we’re nearly done designing our Spring/Summer 2014 collection… it’s amazing how fast time flies! We love designing innerwear and it remains our primary focus for now. We’re introducing some new pieces for this next collection– innovative bras and panties, a new slip, bodysuit and some fun shorter leggings.  We’re also keeping some of our loved foundation statement pieces from the AW13 season but refreshing with new colors.  We’re also working with a new novelty fabric from Belgium that is stunning… very unique, forward and very NOE Undergarments!

Bonnie’s favorite things:
Band:  All time favorite ‘Led Zeppelin’ and ‘Bob Marley’, current favorite ‘Alabama Shakes’
Food: Anything with sugar (I have a major sweet tooth)
Drink: Coffee, Heart Roasters or Stumptown (addicted!!!)
Ice cream flavor:  Mint chip
Artist: My 6 year old nephew Stone—he does amazing surf art!
Photographer: Embry Rucker (he shot our AW13 campaign and we’re so lucky to work with him for SS14… totally amazing!) and also my husband, Ryan Boyes… amazing action photography.
Designer:  Go to, all time favorite —‘Helmut Lang’ and ‘Alexander Wang’, currently I’ve also been loving everything ‘Celine’ has been doing!
Lingerie Brand (other than your own!):  Kiki de Montparnasse… can’t go wrong, USA pride!
Shoes:  Acne boots, Isabel Marant (anything!)
Restaurant: Zulu Café, Laguna Beach (go there for every anniversary)
Lingerie shop: Oh, this is too tricky… West Coast – Faire Frou Frou, East Coast—Journelle
Beauty product: Shiseido facial cleansing oil (amazing… love it!)

If you could only choose one…
Pair of shoes:  Currently my Acne low cowboy boots
Top: Always a Helmut Lang structured Jacket (over a simple tank or lingerie piece)
Jeans: Ksubi or Levis (oh I can’t choose one, too tough!)
Bag: Staerk oversized leather bag—my new obsession, Shelah and I both bought one on our last trip to NYC!  (I bet she puts this as her favorite too!)
Lingerie brand: NOE Undergarments!!!!!!!
Fragrance: Leilani Bishop’s Pikake fragrance oil—amazing!!!!

1. Coffee!! // 2. Kiki De Montparnasse (bra + panty) // 3. Leilani Bishop’s fragrance oils
Editor’s note: I *had* to make a “Mutual Loves” collage, because so many of their favorites overlapped!

Shelah’s favorite things:
Band: Donavan Frankenreiter
Food: Grilled Salmon
Drink: Coffee!!!  Alkaline H20… we are hooked on how good water can taste!
Ice cream flavor: Cookie Dough with Mint Chip coming in as a close 2nd!
Artist: Jamie Lynn (one of my favorite pieces, The Blue Girl)
Photographer: Embry Rucker
Designer: Jason Wu (LOVE this mans work, can do no wrong)
Lingerie Brand (other than your own!): Kiki De Montparnasse
Shoes: Golden Goose
Restaurant: Kintaro – a great Japanese restaurant here on Kauai
Lingerie shop: Fair Frou Frou in Los Angeles, and on the East Coast, Journelle!
Beauty product: Josie Maran Argan Oil + Shiseido Sunscreen 50+ (daily)

If you could only choose one…
Pair of shoes: Golden Goose Ankle Boot or of course Isabel Marant ANYTHING
Top: Eaton Surfboard Tee- my Dad gave this to me years ago, he wore in the 70s.
Jeans: Levis
Bag: Camilla Staerk black oversized bag
Lingerie brand: Kiki De Montparnasse
Fragrance: Leilani Bishop’s Orange Blossom Fragrance Oil

There’s something about a black lace chemise. It’s like a little black dress: the perfect and quintessential lingerie piece. Interestingly, when I hear black and lacy, my mind jumps to “racy” almost immediately, which is actually quite the opposite of this piece.
As you can probably tell, I’m a big fan of chemises, but of Eberjey’s in particular. They’re affordable, easy to care for, sig-oth friendly (very soft!) and have a certain, palpable sweetness. This one is no exception: it skims mid-thigh, has a distinct A-line cut and a white, lacy neckline. It’s almost too sweet for my collection, almost. I think it’s the black and white French-ness that gets me.

Next week, I promise I won’t be posting another chemise. I shot some different, more daring looks this weekend that I think you’ll love. Keep a lookout (hint: here & here) for previews.

Chemise by Eberjey (similar (& an upgrade!))

Photography by Lydia Hudgens

We became fast Instagram fans, and then I saw her modeling at another amazing event: the first annual lingerie fashion week. And then I saw her again, at Curve, prancing around in a Maison Close catsuit. We found out we have even more in common: a love of yoga and Brooklyn. It was then that it occurred to me that she should most definitely be featured on that je ne sais quoi. She embodies so much of what the blog and my mission is about, but most importantly she has and nurtures an unwavering confidence that makes her feel beautiful. Editor’s note: she’s in the running for a contest on Maxim (voting ends Sunday, June 8) and said she would so appreciate your vote!

Without further ado, meet Krista:

How did you start off as a lingerie model? What was your first job like?

Well. I’m an actress also, so I saw a casting for a lingerie company on a casting call website. They were looking for a model with personality, more of  brand ambassador. They said she had to be bold, not shy, and comfortable in skimpy lingerie… ha. I thought, hey, I can totally do that. It turned out to be for a lovely French lingerie company called Maison Close and I model for them to this day. Aurelie and Christie (who unfortunately recently left the company but still a die-hard fan of the brand) made my transition into the lingerie world so fun. These women, aside from being so cool, are amazing at what they do and certainly know good lingerie.

My first job for them, I believe, was for one of their big clients, the lingerie boutique in the west village called La Petite Coquette, to show their complete line. I had my first encounter with the amazing Rebecca (the owner of the store, and a bit of a celebrity in the lingerie world). I knew I was “in” when Rebecca gave me her approval. I believe her exact words were “Wow, you’re so hot, what an amazing ass–God you have a great ass.” I felt a bit objectified haha…. but in a good way.

Maison Close Jardin Imperial Wire Bra, $95
Maison Close Jardin Imperial Mini Thong, $62.5
Maison Close Jardin Imperial Garter Belt, $95
Maison Close Jade Cuffs, $49
Maison Close Les Menottes Volupte Feather and Chain Cuffs, $37.5

Modeling in lingerie isn’t easy. Come to think of it, it’s probably one of the hardest things one could do as a career. Do you face criticism? Is it hard to get over?

It is the reality in the fashion world. However, lingerie happens to look best on toned, curvy bodies. There’s criticism (I guess) but there’s less in lingerie than there is in editorial or high fashion. A little curve here and there is way more sexy and just compliments the pieces better than the stick-like bodies in editorial. After all, lingerie is for a woman, not for a girl. I have been fortunate enough to get into the industry at a time when pop culture has been embracing a more voluptuous body, so I have never heard any criticism (at least not to my face… haha). Also I work with mostly women, and women tend to not like stick skinny girls… at least not in their lingerie. But I will say, I constantly work out to maintain a toned body. I suppose if someone told me I was too fat to model their lingerie I would be hurt because I am human, but they’d have to be pretty audacious to say that to my face. I think they’d more likely just not call me for the job.

Please tell us about your diet and workout routine… you always look amazing.

You’re too sweet. I wish I was one of those girls who could eat whatever she wanted and never have to work out and always looked amazing, but I’m not. I work my butt off, literally. Looking toned and healthy and slim, not skinny, is a balance of diet and exercise. I’m always reading new articles about health that give me some good tips. I always eat breakfast, try not to eat after 8pm and then about four days a week I go to the gym. I learned that the key to staying slim and toned is about variety. I do aerobic exercise, mixed with stretching exercises and a bit of cardio. I used to be an avid runner, but I try to avoid it because I learned it bulks out your legs. Burpees are great they tone your core, arms and legs… look them up. I have to warn you though, they totally suck haha. I also do yoga as much as possible in my house (I have a DVD, I tend to not like classes with tons of people). As for eating, I try to eat healthy and in little bits throughout the day. If I’m feeling ravenous I will allow myself to indulge, but I am pretty good about eating mostly fresh produce and fish. I’m not much of a meat eater anymore (they pump so many chemicals into meat these days, and it can get expensive to always buy organic). I’ve actually been thinking about going vegetarian recently, not sure if I can do it though. I also don’t drink alcohol on a regular basis anymore, that helps.

Do you have any beauty rituals you do before a photo shoot?

Yes, def! I do a little crest white strip action, lots of water and tea, and a good solid sleep. I try not to get too crazy about it, and I’m usually so busy with acting auditions I don’t always have time to primp so much before a shoot. I just try to look my best and EVERYONE has their off days.

What are your top three tips for looking good behind the camera when you’re wearing very little.

Know your good angles definitely, wear heels (the higher the better;)) and put on a little self tanner and lotion. Be confident, KNOW that you look good and others will see it too. Oh… and (yes , I’m gonna say it) suck in!

The Lingerie Lesbian recently wrote a post about posing in lingerie that resonated with me. She basically asked why it’s considered a professional risk to appear in photos wearing lingerie. Can you speak to that? Have you had any personal experience with it?

Hahahaha, oh boy, I certainly hope it’s not. I guess if your trying to have a career in politics, or law it could be a problem because you have to deal with so many … um conservatives? … but perhaps I’m just blinded by my upbringing. I grew up in New York City and was always a part of a very artsy, liberal crowd. My parents always made me feel I should love my body and could express myself in any way I wanted. If someone doesn’t like that I model lingerie, it sounds like it’s their problem, not mine. I never heard anyone complain about hiring me after learning that I model lingerie. In the acting industry it’s actually more of an added bonus than a problem.

Have you always wanted to be a model?

Sort of, not really haha. I started working out a lot in college and started taking better care of my body after I graduated. And my body totally morphed. Once I realized that this change in lifestyle opened up doors for me, I knew it was something I was going to maintain. I will say though, that putting too much attention on aesthetics and looks can be dangerous and jarring, I always struggle with that. I realized quickly after booking a couple of modeling jobs that modeling feeds my ego, acting feeds my soul.

How would you describe your style? Do you have any style icons? Did it change once your started modeling lingerie?

I would say my style is very New York City. It’s eclectic. I like a little bit of everything. I loveeee thrifting and vintage stores. I’m super moody and go through phases, so my personal style often reflects that. I get obsessed with exotic destinations and those countries will often influence my style. My clothing style hasn’t changed much since I started modeling lingerie, but I have certainly upped my underwear game. I now not only own garters and corsets, but fluffy handcuffs and masks the world of intimates is all-inclusive.

I love this photo of you (b+w, drinking coffee in basic black lingerie). What’s the story behind it?

Thanks! I wish it was a more exciting story. A very talented photographer, Jennifer Liu, asked to photograph me for her black and white series, and she told me to bring a couple of props. My boyfriend is Italian (from Florence) so I have espresso cups all over my apartment. I’m also kind of obsessed with that Penelope Cruz Nescafe commercial and wanted to do something very European sexy. And there’s nothing more european than espresso.

Are there any fashion rules you love to break?

Definitely… wait there are still rules? Hah, I almost always wear what I feel looks good on me. I wear white all year round… What are those other rules? I don’t know, fashion is about expression, there shouldn’t be any rules or boundaries.

What’s your style signature?

I’d say a nice pair of jeans, a worn in pair of boots, a comfy loose t-shirt and of course a sexy bra underneath it all. I like to dress simply because I can’t live without my jewelry.

You’re a fellow Brooklynite! What’s your favorite thing about Brooklyn? And New York?

Yes Growing up in Manhattan I never thought I would be anything but a Manhattan girl, but it simply became too stressful. Manhattan is way too stimulating for me, brooklyn is wayyyy more relaxed. I live in Williamsburg which is kind of its own world. It’s more like an extension of Manhattan than a part of Brooklyn. Whenever my mom comes to meet me for dinner in Williamsburg, she always says she feels like she’s on a college campus, no one is over 30. Hah. It’s kind of true. I absolutely love Williamsburg. It’s five minutes from Manhattan but still removes me from the craziness of the city. Who cares if it’s hipsterville!

I imagine you’ve tried on your fair share or bras and knickers by now! Do you have any fit tips or tricks?

Yes! Let the women in the stores help you, they know your boobs better than you do haha (seriously). Stop shopping at victorias secret for all of your bras. There are so many cute, affordable lingerie boutiques all over the place. Don’t be shy with your underwear and bras, take a risk, get kinky.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Wow, that’s a toughie. There’s a lot of advice from a lot of different people that I carry with me. I’d say some good advice would be to wear what makes you feel good, because in the end if you feel really good, you exude a confident energy and there’s nothing sexier than confidence.

On a deeper note, I’d say if you’re anything like me, try and think a little bit less about your life, where it’s going, etc. and just keep doing the things you enjoy, try to be a good person and care about the earth just a little bit more.

Boyshorts, briefs or thongs?

Thongs. I hate panty lines.

Krista’s favorite things:
Band: Hmmm… I love me some Lana del Rey
Food: I’m on a roasted peanut kick right now
Drink: Cortado
Ice cream flavor: Chocalate gelato with lemon sorbet
Artist: Not sure if I have a favorite
Photographer: Helmut Newton
Designer: Alexander McQueen
Lingerie Brand: Duh! Maison Close
Shoes: Worn in Frye boots
Restaurant: Mamma Rosa, Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Lingerie shop: La Petite Coquette
Beauty product: I love ‘em allll

If you could only choose one…
Pair of shoes: My Frye boots
Top: Any worn it white t-shirt
Jeans: All of them
Bag: Pour La Victoire
Lingerie brand: Maison Close
Fragrance: Musk Oil from Bigelow Pharmacy

Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten?

Hopefully still modeling, but predominantly acting full-time.

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer these questions, Krista! Can’t wait to see you at the next Maison Close event! xo

It seems like fall is the perfect time for transition, but it’s happening for me a little earlier this year. I’ve been at my day job for six months now, and I’m absolutely loving it. Supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses is a passion I didn’t know I had until I started as an editor, and every day is both amazing and different when you’re learning about the projects of some very inspired individuals. But since it’s quite social-media centric, I’ve decided to switch all of my blog-related channels (which is basically all of them… ha!) as an effort to separate church and state, especially because my blog is about lingerie. So don’t be surprised if you see @thtjenesaisquoi tweeting or instagramming instead of @linmuemuse. It’s one of those things I thought really hard about because I wasn’t sure if it would be confusing for followers, but I decided it was finally time to just do it. So don’t be alarmed

It’s in that vein that I’m going a new direction with the blog. Don’t worry, there will be all of the lingerie you know and love … and much more where that came from. Details are coming, but you can see the inspiration behind the makeover here if you’re curious!

As for life lately, it’s been crazy, hot, hectic, insanity: and I’ve been loving every minute of it. I’ve been reading more, working out more, worrying less and planning less in an effort to have the opportunity to be spontaneous. I used to think it was sad that I had to “plan” to be spontaneous, but with the crazy pace of New York life I just think it’s kind of funny. I’ve been feeling so lucky and blessed lately because I’m surrounded by people who totally support my crazy lingerie journey, I couldn’t ask for more.

So, thank you all so much for reading. I read every single comment, email and tweet and they give me the warm fuzzies every time. that je ne sais quoi has the best readers

 Chemise: Eberjey / Ring: Unearthen via Of A Kind

Photography by Lydia Hudgens

I was never a high-waisted knickers girl. I would automatically classify them in the “things I will never wear” category because I thought they would a) accentuate my hips, a feature I’m usually looking to downplay; b) look too “retro” for my style; and c) not be attractive, because they’re granny panties! Thankfully curiosity usually gets the best of me, because nothing ever stays in that category for long. Sneaker wedges and chambray button-downs were there once, too… So, a few weeks ago I was browsing on one of my favorites lingerie websites, The Loved One, and found this very affordable high waisted knicker. I’d loved everything else I’d ordered from the site, so I figured why not?

I took them for a spin last week on a dreadfully rainy and windy day, but that didn’t dampen the experience. Every moment was fabulous. Their full coverage held everything in, so I felt excellent about my waistline all day. This particular pair had shaping capabilities too—also fantastic—and they made a few Marilyn Monroe (windy day vs. skirt) moments a little less embarrassing… and a little more authentic? Ha!

But there is so much more to high-waisted panties than the retro aesthetic or the  ”granny panties” fear. Just look at the pair The Sophisticate would wear! You can certainly still look modern, not costume-y (unless that’s your thing, and if it is, rock on), and find a pair that fits your personal style. After my amazing experience, I will absolutely be adding more high-waisted knickers to my wardrobe and I encourage you try them or to expand your horizons, even if you think they’re not for you. And since wearing high-waisted knickers will make you feel extra dressed and ready to take the day, I’ve paired each of my favorites from the market with a lip color to complete the look. What better way to feel more polished and put-together?

The Optimist: Fleur of England Lemon Cello High Waisted Shortie & Obsessive Compulsive Lip Tar in Nylon

The Sophisticate: NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl & Marika Vera June Culotte

The Hipster: The Lake and The Stars Deal Toy Brief and Garter & NARS Lipstick in Piagelle

The Romantic: CHANEL Lip Gloss in 119 & NOE Undergarments Oliver High-Waisted Brief

The Creative: Huit Pavane Panty & BeneTint Lip Stain

The Rebel: Sephora Lip Gloss & Ava Leather High Brief by Something Wicked

It’s funny how each piece from my lingerie collection—that’s what I’ve come to call it lately, as I ran out of hangers in my lingerie-designated wardrobe and space in my knickers drawer, but that’s another problem for another day—has a distinct memory. If you’ve read my past posts, you know I am a true believer in retail therapy. Really. But! Only in certain situations. For example, I bought this chemise in 2011, a few months after the worst break up of my life. I was inconsolable, and believe it or not this chemise did not help one bit. It wasn’t until recently that I was able to truly enjoy this dream of a dress. Did you know that silk does not attract cat hair? This was an unexpected, totally unglamorous but welcome practical plus of lounging in silk, and you can bet your bottom dollar I’ll be living in it this weekend when humidity and heat are peaking.

Circling back to retail therapy, I find that it’s most helpful when my stress is work-related… perhaps because it feels like a nice treat for a job well done. Are you a proponent or opponent of retail therapy?  In what situations does it work best for you, and are there situations it doesn’t? I am very curious to hear your answers.

Chemise: La Fee Verte / Ring: Unearthen via Of A Kind

Photography by Lydia Hudgens

Lately I’ve—perhaps prematurely—been reaching for brights and sheers. In my mind, summer is right around the corner, but in actuality, New York is taking its sweet time to warm up. Seriously. This weekend was overcast with chilly showers… it was the kind of rain that makes you want to stay inside and drink copious amounts of red wine. While it didn’t interrupt my plans (and, to be honest, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to do some blogging, pinning and red wine drinking), I’m still so ready to shed some layers. Who is with me?

I think this is going to be my go-to summer outfit. The color of the top reminds me of lemonade and pairing it with this bandeau makes it much more wearable. It’s daring, but when crop tops are all the rage I think this a slightly more modest and almost dainty take on the trend. It’s made of the floatiest silk chiffon, which is perfect for warmer weather because it barely grazes the skin. You know what I’ve also learned? Silk, unlike jersey, does not attract cat hair. You bet your bottom dollar I’ll be wearing a lot of silk this summer! Next on my silky wishlist is this little number from ARI DEIN.

What’s on your summer wishlist?

Bandeau: Hanky Panky / Top: Zinke / Jeans: AG Jeans

Photos by the wonderful and amazing Lydia Hudgens