According to Wikipedia the first undergarment was probably the loincloth. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance undergarments became more sophisticated and looser in the form of trousers and chausses. The chemise was the first undergarment to cover the upper half of the body and surprise, surprise men developed for them selves before modifying, wait! Perfecting it by women for their use in a corset. From the Renaissance over the next century women's undergarments took flight in their own right to assist, flatten, lift, control, and beautify women's assets.
Today, women's undergarments is a multibillion dollar industry that us dog show people definitely need! From correct fitting and supporting bras to pantyhose or nylons to supportive undergarments, we need them all!
Bras
There are numerous types of bras from the most dainty & sexy to the ultimate sports bra. Just as you change your wardrobe for different activities you have to change your bra. Ladies dog show is a sport if you are running around the rings please pay attention to the girls! If you are large up top this is especially important. SUPPORT, SUPPORT, SUPPORT! Some prefer to not have a wire bra, I personally prefer a wire supported bra. You have figure out which fits best and how it supports. If you're not for a sports bra, take a look at full coverage bras. The super sexy, flimsy, or no bra look doesn't work at dog shows remember to keep it classy.
If you go to a specialty store like Victoria Secret or Fredericks of Hollywood and tell them where you will be using the bra and that you need to be able to run.
One last thing on bras, it is very trendy to have bra straps showing or even portions of a bra showing. This not acceptable in the show ring. I am guilty of wearing a cami with my bra straps showing while grooming or in the set up with an apron on, but really this is pushing it and I shouldn't do that. As we approach summer and the dresses and tops get lighter on fabric please be conscious of necklines and wear a bra that is appropriate and not hanging out.
Nylons and pantyhose are not just at dog shows anymore Princess Kate Middleton is even bringing them back. At a dog show these are just a necessary evil, especially at big shows such as Westminster. I feel if you're wearing a nice suit you should be wearing nylons or pantyhose or tights. This just finishes off the look. When choosing a pair of nylons control tops are best as they will not sag as the day wears on. There are numerous shades of nylons from off-white to jet black. As far as natural shades go, I think if you can't decide which shade is best for you go with the darker one.
Tights are fun and can definitely spice up an outfit. Please do not go to crazy with prints and designs as they can be distracting while moving your dog. Argyle prints are a tie bit out there, but calm enough that they're not distracting.
Control and Supportive Garments
A wonderful woman named Sara Blakely was going to a party and wearing white pants when she realized she didn't have the right undergarments to give a "blemish-free" look so she took a pair of control top nylons and cut the feet off. This was the beginning of SPANX. There are lots of brands of supportive undergarments, but SPANX has revolutionized the industry.
Everyone needs these lovely undergarments! EVERYONE!!! These help correct, hide, whatever the parts of our bodies we wish the world doesn't know we hate. For some it can be a flatter stomach to smaller hips, to smaller thighs. As you can see from the photo above undergarments can smooth your body to create a flawless look. Women at dog shows run and at Westminster our behinds can be on national TV running can make the flattest bum giggle. Control top nylons and pantyhose may not be enough especially if you're wearing a forgiving or stretchy fabric because it will cling to your body.
One other thing these control undergarments can do is cover and hide panty and bra lines. Let's face it we have to bend over and there may be a camera right behind us, let alone people. Wearing smoothing or seamless panties really make the overall ensemble look polished. I find his will also give a boast of confidence that from all angles you look your best
Westminster Undergarment Checklist
Well fitting, supportive bra so the girls don't bounce - we are supposed to be looking at the dog
Good pair of Nylons or pantyhose
Supportive undergarments
Seamless panties
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