Happy Holidays from Secret Drawers Lingerie

Wow, that was a busy season. We haven't even had the chance to wish you all Happy Holidays.

To all of our loyal customers, from Secret Drawers Lingerie, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season and a bountiful new year.

New Year's Eve; New Year's Dress

Lingerie serves two purposes:

1. To make you look great in your clothes
2. To make you look great out of your clothes

And never is this more true than for New Year's Eve.

One of the brilliant things about New Year's Eve is that everyone gets to dress in their finest. That's the slinky black number you've been saving all year or the glittering gown with the plunging neckline.

And when you go that glamorous, underthings really matter.

Learn all about what kind of underwear you'll be needing for the holidays and New Year's Eve in our Valley Living Supplement.

Open publication - Free publishing - More beauty

New Holiday Hours and a Reminder

We know everyone is extra busy this time of year so we're open extra hours to make sure you get a chance to stop by to pick up those lacy bits for under your tree.

• Monday Dec. 19 - Tuesday Dec. 20 10 AM - 5:30 PM
• Wednesday Dec. 21 - Friday Dec. 23 - 10 AM - 8 PM
• Saturday Dec. 24 - 9:30 AM - 3 PM
• Sunday Dec. 25 - Monday Dec. 26 - Closed

After that we're back to our regular hours of 10 AM - 5 PM. Also note that we are closed New Year's Day.

 Don't Forget Her Size

If you're popping in to buy something for the woman in your life, make sure you take a peek into her drawers to see what size she wears. It's just a little tip from Santa to make your shopping life easier. And if you can't get her size, don't worry, a gift certificate fits everyone.

Janira - New Smoothing Underwear

We hesitate to mention it, but a thong isn't always the best choice for an outfit. Sometimes a little smoothing and support is helpful in getting the right lines and curves from an outfit.

That's where Janira comes in. Janira is a new line of invisible control garments designed to smooth the tummy and thigh without leaving a line behind. These designs are available in sizes small through extra-large in nude and black.

To the right is the Janira Slip Spa-Modal. It is made with a natural fibre that is extremely comfortable, stretchy and soft to the touch. This fabric is perfect for even the most sensitive skin.

To the left is a further figure-controlling piece: the Janira Vientre Plano Secret. This has the fit of panties while maintaining the lines of a thong. The Secret is guaranteed to be invisible thanks to its finish and lack of trim along the edges.

CASS - Luxury Shapewear

The holiday season is a time when we take out the fancy clothes we rarely wear all year. For women this often means dresses, and slinky ones at that. Thin fabrics on these impressive frocks might be the most body-hugging things we wear all year.

This is where CASS comes in. CASS is a luxury shapewear company. What's shapewear? Shapewear is an undergarment you wear that nips, tucks and generally smooths and tones a shape without a minute in this gym.

And in this case we're showing the Cami Slip Dress by CASS. This slip dress is the ultimate shaper as it provides medium support from the bust to the thigh. It's the perfect undergarment to wear under a dress to keep a line or bump from marring your silhouette and the CASS Cami Slip Dress won't cling to fabrics and stays put all night long.

The CASS Cami Slip Dress works on all shapes but is best for sizes 0-12 with cup sizes A-C.

Enjoy Some Hanky Panky for Christmas

New Hanky Panky for the holiday season is here. We have additional styles and colours in regular and low-rise thongs. Find thongs now in forest green, silver/black and silver steel.

We also have three and five packs already wrapped with corset lacing up the front. These gift packs are perfect stocking stuffers or even hanging as ornaments on the tree.

Next is the Hanky Panky retro bra in new forest green and hot colour combination lilac/black. This is a balconette-style piece that is suitable for the smaller busted woman as it provides moderate support. The retro bra is made of spandex stretch lace and slips on over the head with no back closure.

Finally, the new silver steel colour adorns this Hanky Panky cami and thong combination. Find camis also in a silver/black duo.

We also have a Hanky Panky gown and retro thong in holiday red, forest green and the hot lilac/black combo seen above.

Avero by Marie Jo Now in Red

One of our longstanding favorites is the Avero by Marie Jo. We have carried it for years in blue, white, black and fashion colours. Now, we're pleased to offer the Avero in hot-for-the-holiday red. The red Avero has full and rio briefs to match.

The Marie Jo Avero is a seamless, molded cup bra, perfect for under t-shirts and thin fabrics. Not only are the straps a stunning chain of tone-on-tone daisies, but they are removable as well as reconfigurable into halter or crossover styles.

Slip on the Avero and it's clear why it's Marie Jo's best seller.

Keep Your Toes Cozy

Last year one of our smaller items that became a big hit was Cozy Toes - Cozies for your Toesies. One feel inside these comfy socks made people snap them right up, so we brought them back again this year.

Cozy Toes have a seamless outer lining with an inner lining of lamb's fleece. This fleece is not itchy or irritating but instead cushions and warms the foot. These socks are designed to be used instead of slippers and some have a non-slip tread.

These socks are convenient because they're perfect for around the house but can also be worn in bed. Cozy Toes are commonly worn by those with circulation problems and by those with sensitive feet.

Don't let the morning chill nip at your toes - make them Cozy instead.

In Time for Christmas - Passionate Red

Felina is a popular brand at Secret Drawers Lingerie. It's known for superior materials and craftsmanship and gives women from a B cup to H cup an exquisite look.

Last year we introduced the Felina Passion. This stunning design has been making woman look beautiful for over a year already. Now the Felina Passion is available in carmine red.

Not a big deal? Tell Santa that. He's awfully partial to red and so are we. We think it's the perfect item to find under the tree, whether is wrapped up or wrapped around you.

Moonlight Magic - Sales This Saturday!

Every year downtown Courtenay celebrates the winter season with Moonlight Magic as part of Christmas Magic Weekend. We love this event because it gives families - and savvy shoppers - a chance to enjoy the heart of Courtenay as much as we do every day.

Moonlight Magic

When: November 26th - this Saturday
Hours: 9 AM - 9 PM
What: Sales in downtown stores

Secret Drawers Lingerie Sales

We're pleased to offer one-day only sales. Up to 75% off:

• Selected pajamas from brands like Blush Pajamas
• Selected bras from brands like Princess Tam Tam, Chantelle and Lejaby
• Other selected items

And while you're here, Walk the Windows downtown and vote for your favorite storefront display.

Upper 5th Up at Night - A Success

Last week was our birthday and we were hoping to spend it with our clients. Luckily, you did not disappoint, and many of you joined us for cookies, entertainment and shopping specials.

We wanted to say thanks to everyone who joined us for the Upper 5th Up at Night event. We spent the evening chatting with old friends and making new ones too. We enjoyed your company just as we have enjoyed your patronage for the last 15 years.

Didn't have a chance to join us? Stay tuned and we'll let you know the next time we have specials Up at Night.

It's Our Birthday - Enjoy the Gift

As we mentioned yesterday, Thursday just happens to be our 15th birthday and so to celebrate, we're giving you the gifts. And as promised, we are having a sale, along with some of our upper-5th street neighbours.

We present, Upper 5th - Up at Night. Please join us from 6-9 PM this Thursday night for exclusive savings.

It's Our Birthday - Celebrate with Us

Time has flown by, but as it turns out, as of this Thursday, we are 15 years young.We've weathered the storms of being a new business, a lagging economy and even our store being burned to the ground, but we're still standing tall as ever.

You Get the Gifts

And because we know that without our clients we wouldn't have had 15 years to enjoy, we're giving you the gifts.

Thursday night, from 6-9 PM we will be holding our birthday celebration with surprises in store for you. Fun entertainment will be provided by Glenny Davidson who does reiki and colour therapy readings and Darlene Jones the author of Embattled about what if 3 wishes could come true.

And yes, we might just be having a sale. Stay tuned tomorrow for more details.

They'll Keep Your Head in Bed

Winter brings about our shipments of pajamas. We carry lines of pajamas in silk, flannel, jersey and other materials.

One of our most popular brands for Christmas gift-giving is Bedhead. This year we have pink and grey Eiffel Tower, blue 3-D stripe, snow leopard, blue Abbey Road and fleur de lis prints.

 

These pajamas are the ones people crave year after year because not only do they look and feel amazing, but they get even softer with washing and last for many winters to come. Some designs are in flannel while others are in a stretch jersey. Either way, they make lounging a more fun and comfortable proposition.

More Mary Green

Mary Green is to Victoria's Secret like creme brulee is to Reddi Whip - Daily Variety 

In the spring we brought in the Mary Green Viktoria and it was hugely popular due to it's striking print. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to get any more in - until now. Now, not only do we have more of the Viktoria chemises but we also have new designs - the Isa and Carri as well.

To the right is the Carri - a printed burnout satin chemise with lace. It's semi-transparent with a cut that flatters a woman's form.

We also have crushed silk Geogette sets with matching thongs by Mary Green. Each of these designs is a limited edition so stop in soon for the best selection.

Cashmere Scarves Return

This season sees the return of the sale of scarves imported from Scotland. These scarves are 100% cashmere and we guarantee love at first wrap.

Last year we sold out of these perfect Christmas gifts so hurry in for the best selection. There is an assortment of colours and patterns suitable for any fashion sense. Keep Jack Frost from nipping at the nose of someone you love.

Prima Donna Deauville - New Fashion Colour

We are privileged to offer some of the finest lines of lingerie from around the world, and this includes Belgium-born Prima Donna.

In the spring we introduced you to the Prima Donna Deauville, in crocus. Well this design has been so popular, we've brought it in a winter fashion colour as well: fumy grey (below).

It's no wonder we've found it popular - it's the best-selling Prima Donna design ever, with one being sold every two minutes worldwide.

This design is popular not only for it's fashionability but also for its fit and function. And we've got sizing to fit everyone in 32 D - 42 H cups with briefs in L-XXXL to match. Join us in-store to see why the Prima Donna Deauville is so popular.

New Marie Jo - Emerald and Exquisite

Stunning in emerald is the new piece by Mario Jo L'Aventure: La Veronique Branquinho.

Brand new in-store is a unique winter design by the L'Aventure line by Mario Jo. This design combines glossy and sheer fabrics with unusual pleating details seen on the straps of the bra. The lines and cut on this lingerie work to enhance a woman's natural curves.

We have the Veronique in A cup - D cup, band sizes 32-38. Complete this seductive and contemporary look with bikini cut briefs in size medium - extra-large.

Sexy Shaping by Chantelle

Which underwear you choose has a lot to do with your outerwear. Bras with a demi-cup, for example, provide excellent cleavage for that deep v-neck dress you wear only on special occasions.

But other times smooth lines are the rule. Under t-shirts or light-fabric blouses getting rid of any bump or imperfection is often the goal. Enter the Sexy Shaper by Chantelle.

Chantelle's Sexy Shaper is designed to make the most of your natural lines. It enhances the curves you want to see and diminishes those you don't.

The full cup provides large-breasted women complete coverage with impeccable smoothness thanks to the flat lace on top of the Sexy Shaper. And extra features like double-adjustable straps and a wide back band make for a perfect and comfortable fit while minimizing the "back-fat" with which some women are concerned.

The Sexy Shaper is available in D cup  - G cup and in band sizes up to 40. Try one on to see how beautiful full-coverage bras can be.

The Softest Bra Ever by Van Elle

One of the designs that has been flying off the shelves lately is The Softest Bra Ever by Van Elle.

Much as the name implies, it is made of silky-smooth fabric that can be worn all day without binding or pinching as the bra molds itself to your curves.

In addition to being comfortable, The Softest Bra Ever is convertible - the back straps can be crossed over and hidden under halter tops.

Van Elle is also the line we carry for understated, everyday underwear. Van Elle underwear is a microfiber blend that is soft to the touch and has a cotton gusset.

And best of all, Van Elle underwear never rides up due to the intelligent placement of the underwear side seams - closer to the front than on standard underwear.

Van Elle underwear comes in a bikini cut, regular or full brief.

New Hanky Panky - Wild Savage and Other Colours

As is our custom, it is time to announce which colours of Hanky Panky we received in the mail this week. As you can see on the left, the fall 2011 colours include concord grape, cayenne red, hot teal and lapis blue.

And for those among you who enjoy a print, to the right you'll see wild savage, available in regular and low-rise as well as the retro thong.

If you're new to Hanky Panky, you only need to know one thing - it's the most comfortable thong in the world. Once women go Hanky Panky, they often never go back. So join us in-store to see how these flattering lines can put a spring in your step - even in mid-fall.

New Philippe Matignon - Tights and Stay-Ups

Philippe Matignon is an exclusive Italian brand of hosiery that is loved by both us and our clients. Philippe Matignon will dress up your legs with elegance and glamour.

Gone are the days when you would pick up a workhorse pair of hose at the drug store. Legs are now dressed as an exquisite outfit accessory.

From Philippe Matignon we have:

Tights
Stay-ups
Socks
Knee-highs
Leggings

We sell out of many items as some women look for high-fashion ways of keeping warm during the winter and others look to give these unique products as Christmas gifts.

Come in now to see all the varied designs and for the best selection.

New Chantelle - the Bastille

The new Chantelle in-store, the Bastille, is an example of the evolution of the company's prestigious history in corsetry. This bra provides lift and support for a broad range of sizes while looking chic and sexy.

The Bastille has lacy embroidery reminiscent of shells in blue tones atop sheer side panels and split straps with a keyhole detail in the center. The Chantelle Bastille seems to be giving a wink and a nod to the typical fashion rules by pairing black and blue.

In sizes 34 - 40, cups B - F, the Bastille will work for many women and even better, the complete look is available with the matching brief, thong or high-waisted pant.

Try on this seamless-cup bra to learn why underwear matters.

New Frou-Frou Robes by Kenan

Is it time to snuggle up yet?

Fall has arrived and with it, the need to cover up a little more when flitting about at home. Secret Drawers Lingerie offers a variety of robe designs to meet your unique needs.

New in-store are robe designs by Frou-Frou, a collection from Canadian designer Kenan.

We have robes with a traditional front tie or a zip-up (as seen left).

Frou-Frou's Between the Lines, seen above, is a three-quarter legnth, hooded,  front-tied robe in angel blue with almond piping. We have additional designs in sweet lilac and pale green.

Frou-Frou also offers full pant and top pajamas in pink and midnight navy. Details of Frou-Frou designs include flattering lines, contrasting piping and blanket stiching.

New Prima Donna Twist - Comic Strip

One of our most popular lines is the Prima Donna Twist and this week marks the introduction of a new Prima  Donna Twist piece: Comic Strip.

The Comic Strip is an addition to Prima Donna's molded cup category of bras, which is preferred by many.

These bras provide flawless, smooth, seam-free lines underneath t-shirts and other thin fabrics.

The Comic Strip is lightly padded and is in a woven fabric designed to offer soft-strap comfort in larger cup sizes: From 34 C - 38 F. We have bottoms available in both a brief and thong.

Come in and see how you look in this winter's fashion colour: Slate.

Classic Black-and-White Nanso

New this week - several pieces from Nanso including this stunning black-and-white print dress.

Nanso makes versatile pieces that are perfect in bed, in front of the TV or on the cruise ship. This dress uses simple stripes to accent the female silhouette making it easy to throw on for any occasion when style and comfort is paramount.

Nanso creates their pieces with ethical and ecological concerns in mind, making use of sophisticated green technologies and materials including fair trade cotton. Their materials are all knitted, dyed and printed in Finland.

This is one item that you can feel good about buying and not just good about wearing.

New Line - Huit 8

Secret Drawers Lingerie is pleased to announce we are carrying a new line: Huit 8.

Huit 8 offers exceptional style that flatters a woman's form with a modern look.

This first piece is called Mrs. Wang. We are carrying the full cup bra and matching briefs in opium - a deep red-tinted orange.

This piece is made from a fine mesh with overlaid satin. It's considered an everyday look but with a graphic, contemporary appeal.

Look from more from Huit 8 in the weeks to follow. We'll leave the last word to Huit 8 and their design philosophy:

"The body as a background, an ultimate medium of expression for lingerie . . . that combines comfort, creativity and modernity . . . Avant-garde by nature, Huit creates, flaunts and cultivates its difference."

A Pair of New Frou Frou

We have a new secret in our drawers: New Frou Frou in lavender, pink and pale mint.

Frou Frou is one of the lines from Canadian company Kenan. It represents a particularly feminine touch in delicate sleepwear.

Part of the Frou Frou autumn / winter 2011 collection is the Opera chemise, seen right. Romantic, pink, stretch lace is seen atop a silken jersey. 

If you prefer a traditional pant and shirt pajama option, the Picture Perfect, seen left, might be for you.

This pajama set has floral printed, pants and button-up top with full-sleeves. The pjs are a cotton / bamboo blend, soft right off the hanger.

The Frou Frou Picture Perfect have a waist with drawstring and elastic as well as satin piping on the sleeve and collar. Details also include pearlized buttons with raised ridges.

We think both looks will give you sweet dreams.

Breast Health - Fashion and Function

We are pleased to have an article featured in this week's Valley Living section of the Comox Valley Record. You'll find our article, Breast Health - Fashion and Function on page five.

Here's an excerpt: 

Health matters. We think about it every time we pop an apple into our children's lunchbox, but our own is just as important. And now that the kids are going back to school we can get back to our own healthy routines at the gym, tennis court, golf course or hiking trail.

But as we go about our healthy activities, it's important to remember another area of our health too: The health of our breasts...

Read the whole article to learn about how breast health is connected to your lingerie.

Sale - 30% Off Kenan and Philippe Matignon

We love getting a great deal. We love the feeling of finding something perfect for just less than the perfect price. It makes signing the receipt that much sweeter.

That's why we're pleased to offer 30% off on Kenan silks and Philippe Matignon camisoles.

Kenan is a line of the finest of silks from Canada and produces sleepwear that you'll want to be seen in. Find sets, robes and gowns from Kenan.

Philippe Matignon is better known for legwear but now is the perfect time to try out Philippe Matignon camis. They are the perfect thing to layer under your summer blouse as the weather starts to move towards fall.

Join us at Secret Drawers Lingerie to see our sale pieces in person.

How Do I Make Bra Straps Comfortable? How Can I Prevent Them From Slipping?

Comfortable bra straps. To some women, this feels like an oxymoron, but we assure you, it isn't.

Not only does Secret Drawers Lingerie have many styles you would find comfortable right off the hanger, but we have a solution for uncomfortable straps you already own - silicone shoulder cushions.

Not only do these silicone shoulder cushions make bra straps comfy, but they cling to the body preventing straps from slipping down the shoulder.

How to Use Comfy Straps

Simply slip your bra straps into the split pocket designed into the comfy strap. The silicone oval pad then rests on your shoulder. Instead of a 3/4 inch strap digging in, you now have a soft cushion.

This is particularly helpful for those with a large bosom who find their bra straps leave indentations in their shoulders and those whose shoulders tend to slope.

Have more questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions section, leave us a comment, or come in and see us at Secret Drawers Lingerie where we're always happy to find solutions to those everyday dressing challenges.

New Prima Donna - The Endor

It feels like we haven't seen nearly enough new Prima Donna in Secret Drawers Lingerie lately, but the Endor, it seems, was worth the wait.

Endor is the beautiful, new line from Prima Donna's bridal collection. Rest assured, those not in the wedding isle are welcome to wear it as well.

The Prima Donna Endor is in a natural ivory that looks stunning against any skin tone. A semi-spiral pattern tops the delicate embroidery on the cups. Diamonds wander the edges and straps creating angled and scalloped lines.

And this full-cup bra is perfect for the larger-breasted woman. We're carrying the Endor in sizes 36 C - 42 G and even have the bottoms to match.

Join us in-store to try on this pure and elegant look.

Your Love: Éternelle

A few months ago we told you about a new Chantelle line - Éternelle. 

Éternelle is stunning in its use of ultra-fine lace, but had one problem - it was best suited for a smaller cup size. Well, no more. Come in and try on the latest Chantelle Éternelle up to a G cup. 

This new style is part of the Éternelle collection, but sports a full cup to flatter a wider range of women. The Éternelle continues to boast a strap so lovely it begs to be seen and impecable delicate and feminine detailing.

So now whether you prefer a demi-cup or a full, you can find your love Éternelle.

New Hanky Panky - Do You Feel Playful or Royal?

Hanky Panky comes through with summer flare for your underwear drawer.To the left is the new playful tiger pattern seen on the original rise thong.

We've also got the playful tiger in the low rise Hanky Panky thong too.

And new colours perk up any outfit. We now have imperial purple and aquamarine in original and low rise Hanky Panky thongs as well as the bikini cut; seen right.

Oh, and a bonus - the new imperial purple matches the beautiful plum Chantelle Cachemire that we told you about last week.  

What more reason could you need for a new pair of skivvies?

Hanky Panky - underwear that matters.

New Chantelle Fashion Colour - Plum

We introduced you to Chantelle's Cachemire last year in winter white. And, well, you loved it. 

The Chantelle Cachemire has been such a popular choice due to its easy fit and good looks, that we've brought it in again - this time in plum with rose accents.

Sometimes larger-breasted women feel left out in the fashion department, but not at Secret Drawers Lingerie. This piece is perfect for the larger-bosomed woman who's looking to add a splash of colour to her underwear drawer - up to an H cup.

Drop by to try on the superior fit, support and elegance of the new Chantelle Cachemire. 

Make Room for Lingerie that Loves You Back

We are pleased to have an article featured in this week's Valley Living section of the Comox Valley Record. You'll find our article, Make Room for Lingerie that Loves You Back on page eight.

An excerpt from the article:

In Feng Shui the closet represents secrets: the Manolo Blahnik fetish you’re hiding; the coat you paid way-too-much for and never wore; the muff made of real fur, even though you tell everyone it’s faux. And nowhere are there more secrets than in an underwear drawer.

We women do love to keep secrets. The two sanctuaries are the purse and the underwear drawer. No one dare go into either without an engraved invitation. Why all the secrecy around the skivvies? Well, it’s hard to say exactly, but in general, we don’t want people to know we’re living in the past...

Read the article to learn the three cardinal sins of the underwear drawer and how fixing them can make you look and feel more beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about lingerie? We thought so. We hear quite a few, so we've put together a list that answers all the questions you've been wanting to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do underwire bras cause cancer?
2. How do I enhance my curves?
3. How do I cover my nipples?
4. How do I hide my bra straps?
5. How do I wear something strapless and backless?
6. Why can't I machine-wash my lingerie?
7. How can I make bra straps comfortable? How can I stop straps from slipping?

See our new Frequently Asked Questions page for all the details. Our lingerie tips might just help you out too.

If we haven't answered your question yet, just leave us a comment and we'll make sure you get the information you need.

We have no doubt there will be many more to come from everyone who knows that underwear matters.

Market Day Sale Continued

Well, we had fun last Saturday on Courtenay's Market Day but unfortunately, not as many of you got to enjoy it with us thanks to the lack of cooperation from Mother Nature. To make up for the rain, we've decided to continue our Market Day sale prices through this week.

We've got 50% off end-of-line fashion pieces from brands like:

• Lejaby
• Chantelle
• Hanky Panky
• Felina
• Goddess
• Nanso
• Princess Tam Tam
• Prima Donna

Find stylish bras, underwear, cruisewear, camisoles, sleepwear and more. We've got sizing from 32A to 44G - but hurry in before someone snaps up yours.

Felina Bridgette: Seamlessly Add-A-Cup

Many women are on the lookout for a new, sexy bra that will give their cleavage a lift and look great under their light and breezy t-shirts. The Felina Bridgette might be just what the summer ordered.

Available in this season's neutral colour, oyster, the Bridgette creates seamless lines without looking plain. In addition to the bows seen at the center and on the straps of the bra, there is gentle lacework on inner cup that is truly pretty.

The Bridgette is designed with the smaller-busted woman in mind. This Felina line is known as "Add-a-Cup" as it has built-in enhancement for cleavage and curves.

And to complete this feminine look, a matching Felina Bridgette low-rise thong is available. Both pieces contain floral spray lacework and ultra smooth microfiber.