Interview with Cindy Johnson of SOL Lingerie

I founded SOL, Store of Lingerie, in 1997 with my co-owner Jeanie Peterson. My passion has always been lingerie and I’ve been working in the industry for over 20 years.

What is the story behind SOL Lingerie? How did it get its start?

During my time in the lingerie industry, I realized that what customers were missing was a store that specialized in bra-fitting. There are so many beautiful, comfortable and great-fitting bras that the American department stores were not selling. I believed Denver was ready for a store that specialized in bra-fitting and carried beautiful loungewear and sleepwear. The idea of SOL was born.

Finding a Bra That Fits

What tips do you have to offer for someone who can't make it to one of your stores for a bra fitting? How can women measure accurately at home so they can order online?

It is very difficult to buy a bra online for several reasons. Even if you know your correct size, not every bra manufacturer fits the same.

And it's very confusing...all those numbers! And those numbers can be misleading. You really want a professional bra expert--and they do exist (I'm one of them)--to tell you what your bra size is and spend the time with you to find you the best fitting bra. My advice to all women out there is go to a specialty bra shop.

Yes, SOL is only located in Denver, but bra fitting has become much more mainstream in the last 10 years. There are other specialty lingerie stores now around the country. We have a Find a Store section on our Web site to assist women find a store in their area. A specialty boutique is where you are going to get a real size on your bra. Once the professional fitter tells you the size AND styles/manufacturers that fit you the best, those are the styles you can look to buy online.

Natori Zen set.

Sleepwear by the Numbers

What are your tips for choosing the right sleepwear? How do you know which style to buy? How does it vary by age?

We all take the time to look good before we leave the house, but for some reason still choose our oldest T-shirt, stretched out sweats or tatty robe to throw on at home. There are so many great fabrics and flattering fits that make it easy it is for women of all ages to be comfortable AND cute when they are relaxing at home.

20s In our 20s, we move out of a college dorm into our first apartment with a roommate. As you are getting new clothes for a new job, don’t forget it’s also time to update your sleepwear collection. Get rid of the old, boxy t-shirt you’ve had since high school. Instead, choose a nightgown that is more hip and young, but still super soft and comfortable. And when your roommate has a friend over you can throw on a matching robe and look fabulous, comfortable and appropriate.

30s Often time new moms find themselves chasing after kids still wearing the same oversized, faded and stretched out pajamas that they wore when they were pregnant. Sure your body has changed, but a new, flattering set of pj’s will transform you from feeling dowdy to feeling like the cute new mom you are. Choose something with a little boob support and accentuates your new trimmer waist. The best part is, it can still just be thrown in the washer!

40s There is always something to celebrate whether it is an anniversary, a job promotion or a special weekend away. You want to wear something a little more special that makes you look fabulous. Choose a luxurious fabric like silk in a color that looks great against your skin. And highlight your best feature! If you have great legs, a short silk chemise is cut on the bias so it hangs beautifully. If you love your shoulders, a silk camisole and pant set will look stunning. And then don’t just save it for special occasions! Wear it anytime you want to look and feel fabulous!

50s College reunions with girlfriends and weekends visiting your kids keep you busy and young. This is why it is time to get rid of your old, worn out favorite robe. Loungewear is something you can wear to sleep, in front of your family, or run to the store. Loungewear is for everywhere. It is more updated and stylish yet still very flattering and comfortable.

Do you have a personal favorite sleep outfit? Why is it your favorite? What's the coziest recommendation you have for winter sleepwear right now?

There are so many great fabrics out there these days. One of my favorite designers right now is NATORI. All of her items are machine washable and dryable. Her Beijing group is a warm, comfortable, long sleeve top and pant with the matching robe. See it here. It's very cozy to snuggle up on the couch or to sleep in. AND I feel great in it!

Natori Beijing set.

Baby, it's Cold Outside

It's cold outside these days! What's the best bra for underneath sweaters? Which ones offer the best shape under bulky clothes? Do you have any specific styles that you recommend?

Winter is a great time for really having fun with you bras. Because you are often wearing dark colors, heavier fabrics and layers, you can almost always wear any style or color of bra. The best shape for underneath bulky layers is actually a lace bra with seams. The seams will give a lot of lift, which will create a more hourglass figure under the bulky tops. Contour bras are good for hiding a nipple, but depending on your size they do not always give the best shape and support. If you are wearing a lace bra but are concerned about showing through, you can wear DIMRS.

Do you have any tips for choosing between the "not really a bra" support/concealer options for underneath strappy holiday attire? How do you choose between Nu Bra and Bring It Ups, for example? Do you have recommendations based on cup size or does it just depend on the individual's breast shape and position on the chest?

Usually I suggest Bring It Ups AND the Nu Bra. If you are young and perky, and can essentially go without a bra, then the Nu Bra by itself works great. It can provide cleavage on some gals, some extra shaping and it conceals the nipple. For most of us, our breasts are a little lower than they once were, in which case the Bring It Ups work fabulous to give lift. Then, the Nu Bra on top will provide the shape, cleavage and coverage to make the outfit look fabulous!

The bottom line is: Don't neglect your sleepwear just because you tend to wear it mostly indoors, and have someone help you choose your ideal bra style, size, and manufacturer. You'll feel better, look better, and create a whole new you.