Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question? You may find the answer right here! Below are some of our most frequently asked questions.

However, if you can’t find the information you are looking for, one of our Fitting Specialists may be able to help you.

Please call us on (08) 9227 1950 or send us an email: sales@silkelegance.com.au

What do I expect when I come to Silk Elegance for a bra fitting?

When you first walk in to our store, you will be greeted by one of our smiling fitting specialists. After you have a little wonder around our store, we can do a quick measurement to determine the best bra size for you to try. You don’t have to take any clothes off at this stage, we are trained to achieve an accurate measure with what you are currently wearing.
After consulting with you and establishing what you are looking for, we will show you a range of suitable options. Then it is time to hit the fitting room and try on your selection of bras. We are all about ensuring you are fitting into the best possible size and style of bra, therefore we do prefer to check the fit of the bra. Of course we will only enter the fitting room if you are happy for us to do so.
We will get your feedback and ask you how you feel in the bra and if you like the style and shape. It goes without saying that you need to feel comfortable in the bra you are trying on.
We may need to try a small number of styles and possibly sizes to find your optimum fit. Therefore an average bra fitting can take anywhere from 15-45minutes, so please allow enough time for your visit.

Do you have any bras that will minimize my bust?

Many women who are conscious of their bust size prefer to wear a minimizing bra to help “shrink” the appearance of their bust. Minimisers are not always the best choice of bra however, as they are designed to “squash” the bust and in doing so, spread the breast tissue out to the sides. While this may reduce the forward projection of the bust, it can often cause the bust to appear wider than your natural proportions creating an unflattering silhouette.
A well-fitting bra, particularly one with good side support and separation will actually give the appearance of a smaller bust by lifting and shaping the bust in such a way that it makes you appear taller with a narrower waist. These bras are often not labelled as minimisers but do the job even better by shaping the bust in a more flattering way without emphasizing the bust’s size.
We love the look of surprise our customers get when they try their top on over a well-fitting bra. We actually encourage you try on your clothing over your new bra so you can see the difference the shape of the bra makes to your overall appearance. You will be amazed by the results! You are welcome to bring in a few tops or dresses that you have in your wardrobe to try on with different bra shapes and styles, in order to achieve the best silhouette underneath.

I am pregnant, do I need to purchase a maternity/nursing bra?

Firstly, congratulations on this new and exciting stage in your life. We know you will be busy planning the arrival of your little one and organizing the nursery. However, don’t forget to look after yourself and your changing body. A bra that is too small will only do more harm than good, so it is best to come in and get fitted by our Fitting Specialists as soon as your breasts begin to noticeably change size and shape. You could experience these changes anywhere from 12 weeks onwards, although this may vary depending on each individual. Before long, you will notice your regular bras will feel tight and uncomfortable. This is the first sign that you will need a new bra and that it is time to come pay us a visit.
No matter what stage of your pregnancy you are in, we will fit you in the best size and style of bra, and one which will last you as long as possible. We will most likely fit you in a bra size that allows you ample room to grow and expand not only in the cup, but around the ribcage as well. As a general guideline, your breasts may increase between 2-4 cup sizes throughout your pregnancy.
You can begin to wear maternity bras at any point in your pregnancy, as they will not only be extremely comfortable, but allow extra room for your body to grow and change shape as well. A good fitting maternity bra will support your bust and prevent ligament damage and stretch marks, and also helps prevent blocked ducts and mastitis. They are soft and comfortable and often have cotton lined cups to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
If you are planning on breast feeding your little one, it is advisable to have at least 2-3 nursing bras- one to wear, one in the wash and one spare, as leakages are very common!

I have heard about underwired maternity/nursing bras. Are these safe to wear?

Maternity bra manufacturers around the world are now designing safe-to-wear flexi-wired maternity bras. The underwires used in these maternity bras are made from soft plastic or flexible wire, which are much softer against the body and are safer to wear compared to regular underwired bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The flexi-wires are designed to flex with your changing body shape, without placing any strain or pressure on your developing milk ducts.

Flexi-wired maternity bras are gaining popularity due to their increased support, separation and uplift compared to wirefree bras. If you do choose a flexi-wired maternity bra, it is still advisable to have a wirefree bra on hand for those days where you would like something soft and stretchy to wear, or for night time feeds.

It is strongly advisable to be fitted by a Qualified Fitting Specialist when purchasing a flexi-wired maternity bra to ensure you have the best size and most comfortable fit. We understand this is not always possible, especially if you live outside of Perth, so we have listed a few things to look out for when trying on your nursing bra:
• The underwires should fully surround the entire breast and fit snuggly against your ribcage in the centre and underneath the bust.
• There should be no visible breast tissue under your arms, outside of the underwire.
• Ideally you should have enough room in the cup to fit your closed fist. This will allow for room to move when your breasts swell and/or are full with milk.

I have a teenaged daughter, when should I bring her in for her First Bra?

The thought of shopping for a first bra for a teenager can often be daunting, embarrassing and something that is thoroughly dreaded! However, our friendly fitting specialists will help make their bra buying experience as positive and stress free as possible, and will leave your teen smiling as she leaves the store with a bra she feels comfortable wearing and loves.
Each young lady’s body is different in the way they develop and change shape throughout their teenage years. Therefore there is no set age to begin wearing bras. However, as a guideline, from ages 11-15, your daughter can wear wirefree bras or crop tops which will provide support as her bust develops. They may prefer sporty looking bras, without frills or lace.
From ages 15-17, your daughter may have developed a distinctive curve in the lower bust and may require a more supportive, underwired bra which will help to avoid stretch marks and breast pain. From experience we know they may prefer a moulded bra (non sheer) which will create a seamfree line under their clothing.
We do not want your daughter to feel uncomfortable standing in front of the mirror in just a bra, so we will only enter the fitting room with her prior permission. We will show her age appropriate bras (not granny bras!) and one’s that she will love to wear.

I am getting married and require underwear for under my dress. Can you help?

Firstly, congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
We can assist you in finding the perfect underwear for your special day to suit your wedding dress and body shape. Whether it be a strapless bra, torsolette, shapewear or a low back bustier, we will be sure to have something to suit your outfit.
Most dressmakers and designers will require you to have your underwear at your first or second fitting. This is so they can work around the shape of your curves and your body measurements which are dependent on your undergarments. This also applies if your dress requires alterations.
If you have already picked up your dress, you are more than welcome to bring it in to our store to try on with the lingerie that you are choosing to ensure the undergarments provide you with the best silhouette to suit the dress.
Alternatively, if you have a picture of your dress, be sure to bring this in with you as we will then be able to provide you with advice on the best option of underwear to suit.
You can visit our store at any time; there is no need to make an appointment as there are fitting specialists in store at all times to assist you in finding your perfect wedding lingerie. Why not make a day of it and bring your bridal party along, to ensure everyone is looking their best with perfect fitting underwear on your special day.

I cannot seem to find a bra to fit me in department stores. What chance do I have of finding a bra in your store?

We are sorry to hear you have not had a positive experience finding bras in department stores. However, this is where our independently run store is unlike your run of the mill lingerie shops and department stores.
Firstly, our friendly and helpful staff are on hand at all times to provide you with a one-on-one professional fitting service, which you often do not find in larger chain stores. We pride ourselves on providing a high level of customer service and product knowledge.
Secondly, we source brands from all over the world to give you choice and a selection of styles in all sizes, many of which are not found in chain or department stores. We of course still stock the favourites like Triumph, Playtex, Berlei etc but provide brands like Elomi and Panache which are not found in department stores.
We hope to see you in store soon.  We are certain you will leave the store in maximum comfort with a bra that you will love. Not only will you support a small local business, but we will ‘support’ you in return!

I need a new bra but I am unable to make it in to store for a fitting. What can I do?

Although we prefer to personally fit all our clients in a bra we know fits well, looks good and will be comfortable, we know it is not always possible for you to visit our store. Therefore we will help you select the best choice of bra by providing you with Fitting Tips, a Bra Size Calculator, and other information under the “Fitting Room” menu. Our staff are also on hand via phone or email to answer any questions you may have. Please see our “Contact Us” page for contact details.
We have an easy to use online store, where you will find a large range of products which you can purchase from the comfort of your own home. This process is completely secure and you will have your order delivered to your door within days.

How long will take for my order to arrive?

We will endeavor to dispatch your order within 1-2 business days of receiving your order, providing all items from your order are in stock.
When you are placing your order, you will have two shipping options:
Standard Post – you will receive your order within 3-8 business days after dispatch. This timeframe varies depending on your postal address.
Express Post – you will receive your order within 1-3 business days after dispatch. This timeframe varies depending on your postal address.
We will send you an Australia Post tracking number once the order is dispatched from our store. You can track your parcel on the Australia Post website.
Alternatively, you can choose to collect your order from our store. Your order will be ready to collect within 1-2 business days, providing all items form your order are in stock. We will email you when your order is ready to collect.

Please note any out of stock items may take between 2-4 weeks for delivery. You may contact us prior to placing your order to check the stock availability to avoid disappointment.

How long should my bras last and what is the best way to care for them?

This is a good question that we get asked daily! We want you to get the maximum life span out of your new bras. The secret (although it’s not really a secret!) is in the way you care for your bras. It is essential that you hand wash your bras, no matter what size, padded or non-padded. Handwashing will maximize the life of your bra and keep it in pristine shape for up to 2 years.
Washing machines, as amazing as they are in cleaning our clothes, are not so kind to delicate items, especially underwired bras. The agitation is known to break wires and cause them to pop through the fabric either at the front or under the arms. The underwires can also cause damage to your washing machine as they can become lodged in the drum. Please note: machine washing may void the manufacturer’s warranty on your bra due to incorrect care. You will find most manufacturers recommend handwashing only, please refer to the care label on the inside of your garment.

The quickest, easiest and most efficient way to wash your bras is to take them in the shower with you. If you only wear your bra one day at a time, they only really need a quick rinse with either body wash or shampoo. You can then hang the bra out to dry in the shower and it will most likely be dry and ready to wear the next morning.

If you have only one favourite bra that you wear each and every day, it will most likely only last 6 months with daily wear. However, the more bras you have on rotation the longer they will last. For example, if you have 3 bras on rotation, they should last you 12-18 months, provided they are cared for as we have mentioned above.

I cannot find what I am looking for on your website.

While we try to display most items on our website, we have a larger range of items in store. Please contact us if you cannot find a particular style on our website, as we may stock it in store.

Alternatively, if your size is not displayed on a particular product, please contact us as we may be able to order it in for you if it is made in your size.

We value all feedback, so if you have any suggestions on how to improve our website, please feel free to send us an email.