TYPE

Garment types provide different body cover and toileting choices. One-piece bathers use shape, pattern and colour to compliment body shape. A tankini combines a tank top with a bikini top, creating a bikini top with a freer flowing skirt of material that covers the abdomen. A tankini may come with matching bikini bottom. A bikini is the combination of a bra-like top and a knicker-like bottom or a separate bikini top. Two piece or top only styles can be mixed and matched with briefs or short bottoms for more cover or convenience when toileting.

STYLE

Neckline   The extent of upper breast cover. A higher neckline provides more cover when there is upper breast or chest scarring. When a breast form is needed, a higher neckline covers the insert and reduces any gap between the chest and the top of the breast form when moving about.

Underarm   The extent of underarm coverage. A higher underarm provides more cover for side of breast and underarm scarring. It also holds the shelf bra more firmly to the chest for better breast and breast form support. It can also hold-in underarm tissue.

Shoulder Shape   The extent of cover provided around the front of the shoulder. A closer shape provides more cover to the upper chest and the side of the breast.

Shoulder Strap Width   The width of the strap over the shoulder. A wider strap can improve wear comfort and contribute to more chest cover.

Shoulder Strap Spacing   Where the strap is likely to sit on the shoulder. As spacing increases, the strap sits further out on the shoulder. Shoulder width also affects where the strap sits on the shoulder. For example, a wider strap spacing on narrower shoulders can mean the strap is more prone to slipping off the shoulder.

Back   The extent of back coverage. A higher back can better contain back tissue, improve support and wear comfort and provide increased sun screening.

Hip   The extent of hip coverage. Lower hip cover provides more cover to the hip joint when flap reconstruction surgery involves the hip and/or buttock.

COMPONENTS

Material   A mix of synthetic (elasticised) yarns is typically needed to provide stretch, low water absorption and chlorine resistance.

Shelf Bra   An elasticised underbust seam sewn on the inside across the front of swimwear. This band holds the bottom of the slightly padded cup against the chest, providing support to the underside of the breast. A higher underarm and back act to create a continuous band around the body, increasing the firmness of support.

Shelf Bra Pocket   An additional layer of material sewn behind the cup, creating a pocket to hold a breast form or shaper. Shelf bras with a nominated cup size tend to hold breast and breast form alignment. Shelf bras with a universal cup size can result in a breast form sitting lower than the breast. Adding a seam to the pocket can correct misalignment.

Straps   Slightly wider straps can feel more secure on the shoulder and contribute to shoulder cover. A racer back strap configuration can be more stable on the shoulder for regular swimming exercise.

Adjustment   Adjustable straps allow height of the shelf bra to be adjusted to suit torso length and breast size.

PERFORMANCE

Chlorine Resistance   The capacity of swimwear materials (fabric, elasticised seams etc) to resist degradation and colour loss after immersion in chlorinated water. Swimwear appears to be made from common ‘proprietary fabrics’. Generic claims such as ’10 times more resistant than unprotected elastane’ are difficult to compare. Frequency of use and appropriate care appears to have the most significant effect on swimwear life.

Moisture   The capacity of the material to resist water absorption. Research suggests synthetic elasticised materials like those used in swimwear may have similar moisture performances.

Free from Harmful Chemicals (Latex)   When the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Logo is shown on the garment label it indicates that the ‘finished garment’ has been tested and given an OEKO-TEX Certificate. Generic terms such as ‘OEKO-TEX materials’ do not verify ‘chemical free’ status.

Links & Information

STUDIO RANGE Products   Go to Swimwear, click on a product to see ‘Style’ and ‘Look & Feel’ information, then click on the ‘Fitter’s Notes’ tab for more product information.