tatatamer_melissacontentWhile jeans and swimwear may top many women’s I-hate-shopping-for-this lists, sports bras are at the top of mine. I have my go-to brands for lingerie but when it comes to finding a bra that is supportive, comfortable and pretty (this is often the clincher), it’s always a struggle. Happily, Vancouver’s Lululemon has a new style (complete with cute name, the TaTa Tamer) and it’s now the only one that resides in my gym bag.

Inquiring minds want to know: Who is behind this little marvel? Answer: Lululemon designer Melissa Content (pictured at left, hard at work. Don’t you wish Lululemon was the dress code at your office too??).

Check out my Q&A with Melissa – including activewear trends for this and next season – after the jump.


Why is it important to wear a sports bra?
If you don’t wear a sports bra your breasts are moving up and down, side to side, and actually in and out when running or doing high impact activities – you can just imagine the damage that does to sensitive breast tissue. The more support you have – especially for larger breasts — the less damage you’re doing. This is the kind of damage that leads to premature sagging, and no one wants that! And this is true for all cup sizes – don’t think that because you’re an A or B cup that you’re immune to damage!

What differentiates a well-designed garment from a poorly designed garment?
I think the key to a well-designed garment is the development. It’s all the work that most consumers don’t know about, like making an illustration come to life and having it function as intended. It’s being meticulous about the fit, taking the time to test the prototypes properly – this is absolutely key (testing on different sizes and doing different activities), keeping comfort, function and fit at the top of your mind – always. If you don’t have fit – you don’t have function.

What is the most common mistake women make when shopping for a sports bra?
Not getting the proper fit/size, therefore not having enough support. A sports bra fits much different from a daily bra and depending on your activity you may need a variety – I wear different bras for yoga and running. I always recommend that women jump up and down in the change room or to do a quick Down & Up Dog to make sure everything is in place.

What are the biggest activewear trends for spring and fall?
Layering! Undergarments – particularly bras – are considered part of the outfit, straps are being shown peeking out of shirts… We haven’t seen the end of tights for a few seasons yet so stock up, especially styles that are colourful and patterned! And of course, basics like racerback tanks, long-sleeved tech tops and tees are musts.

What Lululemon item can you not live without?
This is a tough one. Only one? If I can only pick one I’m going to have to say my TaTa Tamer – I never want to have to run with two bras again. And if I can pick 3 I’d add my Wonder Unders (Should I admit that I have 9 pairs and counting?) and my Cool Racerbacks. Key layering pieces that take me through all activities – running, yoga, walking, dodgeball, biking… And of course I manage to mix them with the rest of my wardrobe for the rest of my every day life.

So there you have it: If you are working out in two bras (or – gasp! – your regular bra), get thee to Lululemon ASAP!