A
Air Padding
Air padding is a type of padding, usually removable, that is used in push-up or plunge bras. Air padding offers more lift than foam padding with a lightweight pad.
Average Bust / Average Busted
Average bust is a bust shape that is perky and has an apple shape. Most bra styles are able to accommodate average breasts.
B
Balconette
A balconette bra is lower cut than most other bras. The coverage is similar to a demi, but even less. It offers a sexy and low-cut neckline. Balconnette bra straps typically sit further out on the shoulders offering a wide and square neckline that gives a natural lift. Balconnette styles are usually best for shallow or average busts.
Ballet Back
A ballet back refers to the shape where the straps meet the back of the bra. The ballet back forms a "U" shape. This shape enables the bra to securely lift your bust line by hugging the band more closely to the body. This "U" shape also elongates the torso and improves your posture. It also helps to keep straps on your shoulders. Ballet back may also be called a leotard back.
Band
The band anchors the bra to the body. It is attached to the side of the cups, around the back and typically fastens together with a hook and eye closure. The band is the most important part of the bra, offering 70% of the support and lift. For a proper fit, your band should be snug to your body, not loose and riding up on your back. Another word for band is wing.
Base
The base is the extension of fabric which starts from the edge of the underwire and extends to the back of the bra. A base on a bra offers additional support in hugging the bra to your body. A base is a benefit for all figure types.
Basic Invisible
Basic Invisible is a signature collection within Chantelle. The buttery soft fabrics make you feel like you are wearing nothing at all! The seamless and smooth lines disappear underneath your clothes. The collection comes in a range of skin tones, a nude for everyone.
Basic Shaping Collection
The Basic Shaping collection is designed with a sleek and contemporary aesthetic featuring shapewear pieces that give medium to firm support. The collection ranges from sizes XS through 2XL.
Bead Padding
Bead padding (beaded pad, bean bag pad) is a type of padding, usually removable, that is used in push-up or plunge bras. Bead padding offers more lift than foam padding. The beads conform to your body's curves for an effect that looks and feels natural.
Bodysuit
A bodysuit is a one-piece undergarment that looks similar to a one-piece swimsuit. The closure is usually at the center gusset. Bodysuits may have full back coverage or thong coverage. There is a tummy flattening panel that gives you a slimming effect. The bust support is similar to a full support bra.
Bralette
A bralette is a soft bra that has no underwire or structured cups. Bralettes are good for shallow or average busts. They are often made of lace and can be made from sheer or non sheer fabrics.
Brazilian Panty
Brazilian panties have more back coverage than a thong and less than a bikini. The style's coverage creates a "V" shape effect on the front and back of the body. The style is very sexy and is usually low-rise.
Brief
A brief is a traditional panty with a high-rise and full back and side coverage. The waistband rests at or just below the belly button. Ideal for those seeking maximum coverage and no panty lines.
Bustier
A bustier is a garment that covers the torso, from the bust down to the hip. It may be worn as a slimming shapewear piece or even exposed under a jacket for a sophisticated look. Often it is trimmed with lace or embroidery. Bustiers may have lace-up or bra hook closures and come both with and without straps. Bustiers are a popular choice for brides.
C
C Chic Sexy Collection
C Chic Sexy is a contemporary collection with a flare of French allure, it is one of Chantelle's most popular collections. The collection is comprised of graphic jacquard fabrics trimmed with soft scalloped lace. Within the collection, there is a bra for every occasion and every bust type.
C Essential Collection
This C Essential collection is vital to every woman's wardrobe, especially for average and full busts. The line is comprised of bras with a simple, yet elegant design. All bras have ultra-soft pads and stretch knit bands offering lightweight comfort for everyday wear.
C Magnifique Collection
The C Magnifique collection is the perfect balance of great fit and Parisian style. The styles within the collection are made from a smooth fabric that feels like a second skin. All C Magnifique styles have a flat floral pattern that is beautiful, yet invisible under clothing. C Magnifique is best for average and full busts.
Camisole
A camisole is a top that is sleeveless, often with spaghetti straps. It comes down to the hip. Camisoles can be worn as a layering piece or undershirt, peeking out of a blazer or even sometimes worn alone. Camisoles are made for all body types.
Center Gore
The center gore is the fabric in the center of your bra that connects your two cups together. The height of the center helps to determine a bra's support. A supportive bra will have a center gore that comes up to the nipple line. A lower center gore works best for plunging necklines. The center gore should lay flat against your chest when determining if a bra fits correctly. If the center gore doesn't lay flat on the chest, and instead creates a gap between the gore and your skin, try a cup size larger.
Chemise
A chemise is a one-piece garment that hits above the knee. It may be loose or body skimming, depending on the design. It is usually made of lavish silk, satin or lace with thin shoulder straps.
Cleavage
Cleavage is the effect attained by pushing the breasts together until they touch or nearly touch. The best bra styles to get cleavage are push-up , plunge or padded bras .
Contour Bra
A contour bra has lightly foam lined or padded cups that hold their shape even when not being worn. These bras give a seamless and smooth shape. Contour bras are commonly called t-shirt bras or everyday bras.
Convertible Bra
A convertible bra can be worn many different ways through the use of detachable straps or special attachments. Some of the ways of wear include: criss-crossed or racer back, narrow-positioned, halter, one-shoulder, and sometimes it can be worn completely strapless. Convertible bras are made all bust types. Convertible bras are also called multi-position bras.
Cookie
The cookie of a bra references a removable pad that enhances the level of cleavage your bra already gives. Cookies are made of different materials, depending on the level of enhancement that is desired: foam, air, beaded, oil and gel. Cookies are most commonly found in push-up and plunge bras.
Corselette
A corselette is a type of shapewear worn on the torso, below the breasts and above the hips. The corselette gives a tummy flattening and back smoothing effect. The corselette has a "U" shape at the front so you can wear your favorite bra along with it. Corselettes have hook and eye (bra hook closures) or snap front closures.
Corset
A corset is a garment that covers the torso, from the bust down to the hip. It may be worn as a slimming shapewear piece or even exposed under a jacket for a sophisticated look. Often it is trimmed with lace or embroidery. Corsets may have lace-up or hook and eye (bra hook) closures. Corsets are usually strapless and may have boning to help shape your waist.
Crossed Straps
Crossed straps or criss-crossed straps, refers to the way that a convertible bra can be worn for specific tops or dresses. The straps of the bra cross diagonally across your back making an "X" shape. This allows you to wear your favorite cut-in or racerback tops without showing your bra straps. Wearing your bras with crossed straps gives you more lift and cleavage.
Cup
The cup of a bra is the fabric covering the breast. All bras have cups and are usually supported by an underwire (those with no wires at the cup are wireless bras). Cups are made one of two ways: either seamless/smooth or cut and sewn. They come in a variety of coverage levels: full coverage, 3/4 coverage (medium coverage), demi or balconnette. The cup is the letter portion of bra sizing. Example: Size 34C (C refers to the cup size). Chantelle designs bras for A through H cup sizes.
Cut & Sew Bra
A cut and sewn bra has specially designed cups to give average and fuller sizes lift and support. The cup is made of two or three separate parts that are sewn together, creating seams. The seams are strategically sewn to give ultimate lift, shape and support. The seam reinforces the bra but lays flat and is invisible under most clothing. This style may also be referred to as a 2-part cup or 3-part cup.
D
Demi
Demi means 'half' in French. Demi coverage refers to having low-cut cups that give a revealing neckline. It is good for creating cleavage with a natural push-up effect. Demi coverage is available for shallow, average and fuller busts.
E
Ebro cup
An ebro cup is the strongest, firmest, most supportive type of cup offering a great shape that is both smooth and seamless. Ebro cups are most often used in underwire and full-support bra styles. These cups offer the most breast projection. They are best for average and fuller busts.
Embroidery
Embroidery looks similar to lace, but is an additional needlework pattern sewn onto the existing base of knit tulle or cotton. Embroidery provides a couture look that is delicate to the touch. All of the embroideries that Chantelle uses are exclusive to our designs.
F
Foam (Padding)
Foam is used for the inner-lining of padded bras. Foam comes in many ranges of thickness depending on your desired effect. Lightly-padded bras with a thin pad are great for t-shirt bras (also known as contour bras). Firm padded bras give ultimate lift and support. More firm pads also provide modesty, preventing nipple show-through.
Front Close Bra
A front closure bra that has a closure in the front instead of the hook and eye closure in the back. Some women prefer the ease of a front closure bra, but keep in mind, there is no adjustability in front closure bra styles. Also called front-closure or front-clasp bras.
Full Busted
Full busted describes your bust shape, if the top part of your breast is as full and round as the bottom part of your breast. Chantelle offers a wide variety of styles that are designed for the fuller bust. Full busted may also be described as big busted.
Full Coverage Bra
A full coverage bra has the most coverage of all bras. There is little to no cleavage shown. A common mistake is the idea of full coverage bras are only for full busts. Full coverage bras are for all bust types: shallow, average and full. The term full coverage is commonly used when referring to t-shirt bras, full support bras, underwire bras and minimizer bras.
Full Support Bra
A full support bra is designed specifically to give you the ultimate support, shape and lift. There are special elements within the bra's design that accommodate fuller busts so it hugs all the right places. The term full support may be used when describing cut and sewn bras, minimizer bras, underwire bras and even some demi bras.
Fully-Adjustable
The term fully adjustable refers to when the bra straps can be tightened or loosened to the fullest extent. There are no strap design details that prevent the plastic or metal slider from stopping halfway down the strap. Fully adjustable bras are ideal for petite women and women with sloped shoulders.
G
Garter
A garter is worn at the thigh, an elastic piece usually adorned with lace or embroidery. Historically garters were used to hold up stockings. Today, they are most commonly used for bridal traditions. Garters are typically one size fits all.
Garter Belt
A garter belt is traditionally fastened around the body at or below the hips. As they are commonly used in combination with stockings, they have clips that attach to the stockings, keeping them up. They are often sized as, one size fits all, and there is usually adjustability in the waistband.
Guipure
Guipure is similar to embroidery, but rich and more lavish. It is made by a special technical process, which is what gives it its raised appearance. Chantelle often uses guipure details on our designs for an elevated design element.
H
Halter Neck
Halter neck refers to the way that a convertible bra can be worn for specific tops or dresses. A single strap connects to a bra loop found on the inside of one cup, goes around the back of the neck, and then the other side of the strap connects to the bra loop found on the inside of the other cup. Neither strap connects to the back band of the bra.
High-Rise
High-rise describes where the waistband of a panty or shapewear piece hits at the waist. A high-rise style is worn at the natural waist or just below the belly button. A high-rise is usually found on more traditional styles such as a brief.
Hipster
A hipster is a panty that sits low on the hips like a bikini, but offers slightly more coverage in both the front and back. Hipsters can also be called: boyshorts, girlshorts, or boxers.
Hook and Eye
A hook and eye is a type of lingerie closure located on the back of the bra that is comprised of metal hooks and loops which connect to each other, fastening the two parts of a bra together. Many of Chantelle's styles now offer hook and eyes that allow you to adjust the bra to four different levels of tightness, compared to the average bra that just has three.
I
Inner Sling
An inner sling is an additional fabric lining inside a bra that follows the bottom, outer curve of the cup, closest to your armpit. This sling helps to move your breast tissue forward, giving a more centered, lifted and supported look for the bust. A sling is usually used in unlined, underwire and full support bras. Slings are mostly used in bras for fuller busts.
K
Knit
A knit is a fabric often mixed with spandex fibers to enable the most comfort and stretch. Most bras, panties and shapewear are made of knit fabric.
L
Lace
Lace is an ornately woven fabric made by interlacing and winding threads. Lace is available in various qualities. The laces that Chantelle uses are exclusive to the brand. The lace used in our lingerie is often delicate and soft, not coarse and itchy. Lace is commonly used in demi bras, full support bras and sometimes as trim on t-shirt bras.
Leotard Back
A leotard back refers to the shape where the straps meet the back of the bra. The leotard back forms a "U" shape. This shape enables the bra to securely lift your bust line by hugging the band more closely to the body. This "U" shape also elongates the torso and helps your posture. A leotard back may also be called a ballet back.
Low-Back Bra
A low-back bra can accommodate shirts or dresses that hit your back lower than where a traditional bra band sits. Low back bras are made for all bust types.
Low-Rise
Low-rise describes where the waistband of a panty or shapewear piece hits at the waist. A low-rise style is worn below the hip bone. A low-rise is usually found on more modern styles such as thongs or boyshorts.
M
Medium-Rise
Medium-rise describes where the waistband of a panty or shapewear piece hits at the waist. A medium-rise style is worn at or just above the hip bone. A medium-rise is usually found on more classic styles such as a bikini or hipster.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is a new generation of t-shirt bra cups that react to your natural body heat. This foam will shape to your body, then return to its original shape once taken off. It allows the bra to mold to the breast while staying smooth and seamless under your clothes. Memory foam is usually used when describing some t-shirt bras.
Microfiber
Microfiber is a synthetic fabric that is very thin. The fabric made from microfiber is very soft to the touch and quite popular in lingerie and sleepwear. Microfiber is known to pull moisture away from the body to allow you to stay cool and dry. Microfiber is commonly used when describing bras, panties and chemises.
Minimizer
A minimizer is a type of bra that gives the effect of a smaller bust line. Minimizers are best for full busts. They have special design elements of the bra to make you look more slender by lifting and supporting you in all the right places. The term minimizer may be used when describing underwire, full support, and cut and sewn bras. Also known as a minimizing bra.
Mouvance Collection
The Mouvance collection is a homage to contemporary architecture featuring ultra light and graphic lines illustrating gentle waves and celebrating feminine curves. The collection is made of soft tulle and rich embroidery. The bras of the collection are great for all bust shapes.
N
Narrow Strap Position
Narrow position refers to the way that convertible bra straps can be worn with specific tops or dresses that are sleeveless or slightly cut-in at the back. Also, you may choose this option if your straps often fall off of your shoulders. By placing the straps on the most inner setting, this enables the narrow strap position. The bra straps will give the effect of a slight "V" at the back.
O
Oil Padding
Oil padding is a type of padding, sometimes removable, that is used in push-up or plunge bras. Oil padding offers more lift than foam padding , but is slightly heavier in weight.
P
Padded Bra
A padded bra refers to any bra style that has a formed shape, even when it is not on the body. Padding thickness varies from a very thin pad of a t-shirt bra to the thick padding of a push-up bra. Even though the padding thickness may vary, these styles of bras are all considered padded bras. Padded bras are good for all bust types. The term padded may be used when describing: t-shirt, plunge and push-up bras.
Panty
Panties are underwear designed with a waistband, leg openings, a range of front and back coverage and a center panel usually lined with cotton. Panties come in many styles to accommodate every body type and occasion. The most popular panty styles are: bikinis , thongs , briefs and boyshorts . Chantelle designs panties from sizes XXS through 5XL.
Partially Adjustable
Partially adjustable refers to when your bra straps cannot be tightened or loosened to the fullest extent. You can only tighten or loosen half of the strap. Partially adjustable bras are ideal for most women, but petite women or women with sloped shoulders may prefer to have a fully adjustable option. Also may be called semi-adjustable.
Plunge Bra
A plunge bra gives great cleavage under low-plunging, deep-v tops and dresses. The center of the plunge bra is cut very low, in a "V" shape. The cups of the bra push the breast in and up, giving great lift. Some plunge bras come with integrated or removable padding.
Projection (Breast Projection)
Breast projection is the term used to describe how far away from the body the breasts are situated. The term is used when describing the shape that a particular bra or bra style gives.
Pure Collection
Pure is a collection of everyday styles that have great support and are comfortable for all day wear. The fabrics are a play between seamless and striped knits for an interesting visual appeal. The memory foam bra hugs and supports your curves while having the best convertibility options: halter, criss-cross, narrow back. Designed for shallow, average and some full busts.
Push-Up Bra
A push-up bra gives great cleavage under low-cut tops and dresses. The center of the push-up bra is usually cut very low. The cups of the bra push the breasts up, giving great lift. Most push-up bras come with integrated (non-removable) or removable padding. A push-up bra is best for shallow to average busts, even some full busts.
R
Racer Back
Racer back bras have straps that form the shape of a "V" on the center of the back. This strap placement allows a wider range of arm movement because the straps are not laying against the shoulder blades. Chantelle offers a true racer back bra and many that can be converted to a racer back. Racer back bras are best for shallow, average and some full busts. Also called a T-back bra.
S
Satin
Satin is a fabric often made from polyester fibers or silk, specially woven to create a glossy finish. Satin is most commonly used in bras, panties and chic boutique pieces.
Seamless Cup Bra
Seamless cup bras have cups that are made of one single piece of fabric. The cups have no seams and offer shaping to provide a smooth look under most clothing types. Seamless bras are great for all bust types. Seamless cup bras may be used when referring to t-shirt bras, underwire bras, minimizer bras and plunge bras.
Shallow Bust
You have a shallow bust shape when the bottom part of your breast is fuller or heavier than the top part of your breast (like a ski-slope). In some cases, you may have lost firmness due to pregnancy or weight change. As women age, we all lose elasticity in our breasts, which results in a shallow bust. Also called having relaxed breast tissue.
Side Sling
A side sling is a vertical panel of fabric adding support to the bra cups closest to the armpit. A side sling helps to contain and move your breasts forward, which instantly slims your silhouette. Side slings may be used in full support, 3-part cups and minimizer bras.
Spacer Bra
Spacer refers to the type of fabric used in the spacer bra. This fabric is a lightweight, three dimensional knit with breathability. The thickness can be compared to velvet. Spacer fabric keeps you cool, is crush-resistant (great for travel), and prevents nipple show through without a bulky or thick padding. The term spacer can be used when describing t-shirt bras, racer back bras and plunge bras.
Sports Bra
Sports bras are designed to be worn during activities in order to support and protect your breast tissue. The goal of the sports bra is to fully contain the bust in order to reduce movement during activities. Sports bras come with or without underwires. We recommend a sports bra with underwires for maximum support, especially for full busts and high-impact activities. Our sports bras are made with ultra-flexible wires that are comfortable yet supportive. Sports bras are good for all bust types.Chantelle now specially designs a sports bra up to an H Cup: See our High Impact Multi-Way Sports Bra
Straight Back
A straight back means that the band of the bra is designed completely horizontal on the body. There is no curvature where the straps meet the back band, as in a leotard back. Straight back bras are found in all types of bras.
Strapless Bra
Strapless bras are designed to stay in place without the use of shoulder straps. They commonly have silicone strips on the inside of the band to keep the bra from sliding down. Strapless bras are worn under your favorite tops and dresses that bare your shoulders. Strapless bras are good for all bust types. Chantelle now specially designs a strapless bra great for up to a G cup: C Essential Strapless
T
Tanga
Tanga panties have slightly more back coverage than a thong and less than a brazilian bikini. The style gives a "V" shape effect. The style is very sexy and is usually low- rise.
Thong
Thong panties have minimal back coverage, even less than a brazilian or tanga. The style gives a "T" shape effect. The style is very sexy and is usually low-rise. Thongs are a great option for a clean, seamless look underneath knit pants, or clingy bottoms, as they diminish the appearance of panty lines.
T-Shirt Bra
A t-shirt bra offers smooth, seamless cups that will show no lines under your everyday t-shirt. Most t-shirt bras prevent nipple show-through. T-shirt bras are great for all bust types. Also known as an everyday bra.
Tulle
Tulle is a mesh fabric that can stretch or be stiff. It is often used as a background for embroidery. Depending on the thickness and form, it can be sheer or non sheer.
W
Waist Cincher
A waist cincher is a garter belt that is worn high at the natural waist, fastened with a hook and eye closure. The waist cincher slims the waist and gives an hour glass figure. Clips attach from the belt to your stockings, keeping them up. A garter belt will complete your look for any special occasion.
Wing
The wing anchors the bra to the body. It is attached to the side of the cups, around the back and typically fastens together with a hook and eye closure. The wings are the most important part of the bra, offering 70% of the support and lift. For a proper fit, your wings should be quite snug to your body, not loose and riding up on your back. Another word for wing is: band.
Wireless Bra
Wireless bras give support and shape without the underwire. Wireless bras are good for all bust types. Wireless bras may also be called: soft-cup bras, wire-free bras, and non-wire bras.
