According to the website, the new Summer 2009 collection “offers natural style, comfortable materials, elegant colours, contemporary shapes, and a beautiful escape towards modernity for radiant women.” I see a collection full of sets with the perfect amount of skin revealed, and the perfect amount concealed. There are fresh colors, thoughtful details, and a splash of bold graphics.

See the Empreinte website for more styles and more details, as well as to review the swimwear line. It looks like the bras are available in sizes 30D-44F, and there is a selection at Figleaves UK, BiggerBras, AmpleBosom, and at various boutique locations.

Upon entering the ballroom after a cocktail party, guests took their seats around the runway where models were already placed on stage wearing designs from the competitors. Following dinner, guests were treated to the runway show and the presentation of awards. The competition in each category was tough indeed, particularly in the Best Fashion and Best D+ competition. That one is closest to the heart, of course.

Perhaps what stood out in my mind the most, that many others attending the event also mentioned, is that women of all shapes and sizes were represented in the runway show.

One line, Best Plus Size award winner Tia Lyn (also appearing at the trade show), is an all-inclusive line that spans sizes small to 3x. This vintage inspired line features a variety of chemises, gowns, camisoles, and panties.

Also a contender for both Best Plus Size and Best D Plus finalist, Empreinte, is seeking to become more of a presence in the U.S. with its beautiful and well constructed pieces for fuller figure women. This 60 year old company based in France offers numerous options in sizing (up to a G cup) as well as high fashion and glamour. I am most impressed with the delicate embroidery and variety of moods the collection fits.

Other contenders for Best D Plus include my personal favorites, Panache and Elixir, Barbara, and the amazing Australian based line, Bendon. So expect more about some of those lines soon!

Best Fashion was probably my other just-can’t-pick-my-favorite category of the evening. With TLP favorites Marlies Dekkers, Madame V, Chantelle, and Elle MacPherson and one of my trade show finds, Lou, it was stiff competition! Lou will be debuting this fall with parts of the collection arriving in both September and November so check your local boutique. Perhaps my favorite part of the evening might have been when the team from Marlies Dekkers was accepting their award and shared their design philosopy. They design pieces to please women, but if it also happens to please men, then that’s great. I like their way of thinking!

Overall, it was a phenomenal evening of great food, great conversation, and GORGEOUS lingerie. You can drool over all the beautiful pieces like I did! See the video coverage of the show at Zoozoom.com.

“[...] I used to go into these boutiques filled with hope, and it hurt so bad having to leave them again feeling so dissapointed. Yes, they had the big-sized bra’s, but they just didn’t feel well. I ended up buying the same lingerie over and over again simply because it was the only lingerie I knew I’d feel good in. Can you imagine my anger at all my co-workers with their C-cups who can pretty much wear anything they want. [...] Well, ever since I’ve gotten to know Empreinte and their awesome lingerie I feel like I’m the one laughing. Empreinte lingerie isn’t available in smaller sizes, simply because that’s not what it’s made for… I feel so at home in these bra’s, my twins just love Empreinte! [...] I suggest you take a look at the sexy Empreinte Emma line which is one of my favorites.”

We checked out the (French) Empreinte website and must admit this one looks pretty good. I’ll have to take Laura’s word for it though if she says these bra’s fit better than any other bra she’s ever tried…

Anyways, I did my part, and went checking some prices: $104-$120 at biggerbras.com, £61.00 ($114.68) at Rigby & Peller and the bargain of the day is surely amplebosom.com where you can get the bra in all sizes for under $100. Thanks for the e-mail, Laura!

Rigbyandpeller.com advertises this balcony bra as follows:

“The femininely desirable Thalia balcony bra is gentle and extremely light in appearance. Crafted from a selection of quality lace and embroidered tulle, this bra is supportive and immensely comfortable. Ideal for the fuller bust, the Thalia balcony sits straight across the chest, creating a desired shape.”

Sounds good, no? Well, I can tell you they’re not lying. The bra is very comfortable, and doesn’t feel like it’s putting tension on anything, while still giving great support…

Now, why pay $130 for a bra when there are much cheaper alternatives? Easy: Empreinte has so much experience with larger busts that you’ll feel the difference! The support is excellent, and because of their A-brand quality you’ll be able to wear it for quite a long time… Any big-busted girl should have at least one of these in her drawer!