Swimwear and Lingerie

Swimwear and Lingerie at Sylene

Cyla, tell us about your boutique, Sylene.

Sylene of Washington opened in August of 1975. I opened the shop to give women a comfortable place to purchase swimwear and lingerie in a friendly environment with sales associates who are well educated in the art of proper fit. I love looking at all the new merchandise and vendors and selecting the best from all the collections, both domestic and international.

What is the first thing we'd notice when we walk in the door?

When walking into Sylene D.C., the first thing clients notice is the spa-like atmosphere. It feels like a sanctuary filled with candles and waterfalls. The swimwear and lingerie is professionally displayed and grouped according to categories. For example, bras are grouped by categories such as seamless, sexy, sport, strapless, etc. This is done so clients are not overwhelmed by the many choices available.

Tell us about the swimwear and lingerie at Sylene.

At Sylene D.C., we stock an in-depth selection of bras, panties, sleepwear, and swimwear to take care of the needs of any woman, depending on what is going on in her life at the moment.

We offer:

• Training bras
• Wedding bras and bustiers
• Maternity and nursing bras
• An assortment of post-breast surgery garments
• Breast enhancements

In swimwear, we stock great two piece swimsuits, tankinis, bandeaus and all types of figure flattering one piece swimsuits. We also have a great selection of cover ups that will take you from the beach to lunch or dinner. Other accessories that we carry are cute thongs, visors, and beach bags.

Many women find shopping for a new swimsuit to be a less than pleasant experience. How would you help us at Sylene?

You are so right about that. Everyone hates some part of their body. What we do at Sylene is personally help women select suits that most flatter their specific figure type. We try to make it a pleasant shopping experience for everyone.

What do you feel are the most important things a women should understand about choosing the right swimwear and lingerie for her figure?

Just be of the positive mindset that there is a bathing suit that is going to be perfect for you. You need to pick out your best attributes and emphasize them. If you've got great legs, then pick a swimsuit that is high cut on the leg. If you're small busted find swimwear with padding or ruffles, or a big and busy design to add emphasis to that area.

I’ve included some specific tips for certain body types to help guide women in selecting the perfect swimsuits and lingerie this season.

• Full bust: Don't despair ladies, there are many swimsuits that come in D-F cups. These suits provide support and coverage, and are very much in fashion. Vendors have come to realize that there are many full busted gals out there who want great looking suits. You can find them with and without wires and with tummy control if you desire.

• Tummy hider: If you want to camouflage your tummy, look for a suit that flatters and firms. Shirring is good, as well as color blocking, asymmetrical patterns and surplice suits.

• Large thighs: Find a bathing suit that takes the eye away from that area. Skirted tankinis are a great option, as are swim dress suits or boy short suits.

• Hip problems: Here you need to find a swimsuit that flatters the leg. You should look for a suit that is cut higher on the leg because it makes your hips look smaller. Dark bottoms are good. Also try to find a suit that has interest across the top to take attention away from the hip area.

• Long torso: Suits are available in long lengths. Tankinis and two piece suits are also great for camouflaging long torsos. Emphasis at the waist deemphasizes the length of your body.

• Small bust: There are many swimsuits available that will provide cleavage and fullness. Look for suits that have push up cups or pads inside. Shirring across the bust is also good and embellishments on the upper area also add some fullness.

Any tips about coming trends for the 2007 season?

Color trends for 2007 include brown, navy, and white. Polka dots and vibrant prints will also be popular in two piece styles.

We're also seeing lots of sexy solids with embellishments like beads or sequins for interest. Going into spring and summer we are seeing another trend toward yellow, green, burgundy and red.

What is the most important thing you'd like our readers to know about Sylene?

I'd like your readers to know that there is more than one perfect style for everyone. We at Sylene pride ourselves on finding great bras, swimsuits, and sleepwear for every figure.

Sylene D.C. is all about the "fit". We'd welcome the opportunity to work with LoveToKnow readers and answer their swimwear and lingerie questions.

External Links

Visit Sylene D.C.

• Sylene: 4407 South Park Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD
• Sylene website

Find out more about lingerie at

• LoveToKnow Lingerie