So, where exactly is the waist?

Today we will address a question from a reader regarding finding and measuring your waist.

"I'm a nursing major and I want to participate in a pageant that has a swimwear division. I need help. I know what bone connects to which bone but, I'm always confused on where is the waist vs my hips for measurements. What is the natural waist vs the lower waist and how low is low?"

This is an excellent question. When you go to the store to buy pants, you see options for low rise, mid rise, high waisted, natural fit and comfort fit. No wonder we are confused! For custom swimwear, however, it is important to know where your natural waist is, regardless of how low or high you wear your pants. Before we discuss how to find and measure your waist, let's review of the rules. Measure your body over nude skin or tight fitting underwear, get a friend to help you, be barefoot, relax, and breathe normally.

The natural waist is not necessarily the midpoint on the torso. If it is closer to the breasts, you are high waisted. If it is closer to the hips, you are low waisted. If it is squarely at the middle, you are Marilyn Monroe. Congratulations. All kidding aside...

To find your natural waist, place the tape around the smallest part of your torso and bend side to side. As you bend, you will see a crease form below your breasts, but above your hips. The tape should "settle" into this crease. This is your natural waist. If you have love handles and are having trouble finding the crease, push your fingers gently into your side until you feel the top of your hip bone. Bend side to side. Measure around the fold that occurs above the hips. Once you have located your waist, wrap the tape around it. Make sure the tape is parallel to the floor and snug, but not tight. Write down this measurement.

Now that you have located your natural waist, you can find your lower waist. Mark your natural
waist on the front of your body with your finger. Measure two inches, or the span of two parallel fingers, below the natural waistline. This point marks your lower waist. Using this point as your guide, wrap the tape around your body. Once again, keep the tape parallel and snug.

The final part of our nursing student's question was, "how low is low?". Well, truly low is any point occurs below your lower waistline. Some in the industry call this "ultra low rise" and while you may find the ultra low a comfortable point for your waistbands, it is too low if your behind shows when you sit down or bend over or if you are constantly tugging at the band to bring it back into a position.

Wearing swimsuit bottoms that hit at the natural or lower waist depends on personal preference and body shape. If you are not sure of which waist or how low you prefer, grab your favourite and most comfortable pair of jeans. Is the waistband hitting at or below your natural waist? If it is below, you prefer to wear your bottoms low-waisted. When submitting measurements to ReignSuit for custom swimwear, include your natural and low waist size as well as your personal preference.


Photo by Greg Daniels
Model Jessie Layne
Stylist
Narvell & Whitney Bracey
Makeup & Tan by
Briana

Amora - Our New Sweetheart

We have all seen her. All eyes are on her when she walks along pool side. She is mysterious, sensuous, and intriguing. She is unforgettable. Now, you can be her. ReignSuit introduces the Amora; the definitive suit for divas who want to be noticed and never forgotten.

The Mexican resorts of Cabo San Lucas were the inspiration for this one-piece. When wearing the suit it is easy to imagine yourself lounging poolside, shading your eyes with oversized sunglasses and trying not to grin as the guests and staff whisper, "Look at her! She must be someone famous!" Well, enjoy the attention because this suit is as functional as it is beautiful. The gentle curve of the white and pink give the torso a long, lean hourglass appearance while the gold ruffle and petal shaped accents add a whisper of vintage Hollywood glamour. Unlike the traditional one-piece, this suit is strapless making it an excellent bikini alternative for pageants and model's portfolios. The sweetheart neckline coyly plays up the name Amora, which means love in Spanish.

You will glow with confidence and feel beautiful and sexy in the Amora. No matter where you wear it, you are bound to attract attention. Be memorable. Custom order this suit today.


Written by Nerissa McNaughton
Photo by
Marcus Lopez
Model Kesli
Stylist Narvell & Alicia P.


Measure Your Torso for an Amazing Fit

There is no need to fear swimsuit season. A custom-made suit flatters all body types, providing you submit accurate measurements. Over the next few weeks, you will learn how to properly measure your body for swimwear. Before we start with the torso, there are a few key rules.

For maximum accuracy, get a friend to help you and do not measure in front of a mirror (there is a tendency to pose in front of the glass). Stand relaxed and barefoot in nude skin or underwear. Above all, be honest. A custom suit is designed to make you look great but if you submit measurements of what you wish you were or what you are striving to be, your suit will not fit or flatter you.

Torsos come in three sizes: petite, standard, and extended. It is common to generalize that all petite people are short and all people with extended torsos are tall, but this is not the case. A tall person could have a petite torso and long legs while a short person could have an extended torso and short legs. Typically, tall women opt for a bikini or tankini to avoid the dreaded "hunch back pull", while shorter women find their maillots give them an excess of material around their middle. However, all women - regardless of the shape and length of their torsos - can wear a customized one-piece suit.

For a suit that fits your unique torso, correct measurements are vital. Place the end of a flexible dressmakers tape on the high point of your shoulder (which is at the base of your neck). Run the tape measure downwards over the fullest part of your breast, through the center of your crotch, and up the back to the starting point at your shoulder. Hold the tape taunt without pulling or stretching it and make sure you are not arching or pushing your shoulders back. A petite torso will be (approximately) 57 - 60 inches, standard is 61 - 63, and extended is 64 and above.

With ReignSuit's customized swimwear, every woman can enjoy the comfort and style of a one-piece suit. Check out their collection at
http://www.reignsuit.com/ and stay tuned to this blog to learn more about how to properly measure your body.


Written by Nerissa McNaughton
Photo by
Narvell
Model
Hope Beel
Makeup Aritist
Briana
Hair by
Terry Parker

Miss SW Florida USA Shines at Press Shoot

Miss SW Florida USA, Kathleen Patten, channeled the essence of sea and sun during a recent photo shoot by wearing swimwear designed ReignSuit. Kathleen received the bikini as part of her sponsorship package for winning the title of Miss Southwest Florida and Miss Photogenic.


It is easy to see why the “Shayla”, which is the style of her ReignSuit, is ideal for her. It fit her beautifully; enhancing her curves, highlighting her alluring appeal. The richness of the color and luxury of the style ensured that she stood out in the midst of the other beautiful contestants. “While wearing my ReignSuit during the Miss Florida USA press day photo shoot I was confident, comfortable and fashionable!” said Kathleen. “It fit me perfectly.” Her confidence, poise, and demeanor backed up her statements and showed how truly at ease she was in this stunning bikini.


The shimmering blue oceans around the islands Trinidad and Tobago are reflected in the colors of the suit. Some of the details that make the “Shayla” unique are the soft ties of the halter-top and the gold sewn-in bows on the hips. This suit can be ordered in solid or two tone colors and with or without padding. Order yours today at http://www.reignsuit.com/.

Press Release

MODEL CALL - June 14, 2008 in Dallas, Texas

Model Call


Saturday, June 14, 2008 from 10am - 12pm


2325 North Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75207



On The Scene with P3 Lab

On The Scene at
ReignSuit Swimwear's designers were invited to Watercolors, an event hosted by P3 Lab's owners Ryan Whitney and MiMi J. Styled by Narvell, ReignSuit Co-Designer and model Whitney Bracey wore a pink halter top with a neck bow tie from the Cobo Collection while model Ashli wore a dark golden halter from the Egyptian Collection. Both ladies wore black slacks and jackets to show the crowd how versatile ReignSuits can look.



On The Scene - Spring Fashion Show

Images from the Spring Fashion Show on Friday, May 2, 2008.

Ohh... Don't Get My Hair Wet!!!

April 19, 2008 ReignSuit Swimwear was at it again! Collaborating on another hot photo shoot with Photographer Kauwuane Burton for Hair Revolution. Why a hair book? Because it's Glamorous! Look for this amazing hair book later this year.

As you can see below, no hair was wet in the making of this photo shoot.


Swimwear Model: Natali Clarke


Hair & Makeup: Bridgett H


Wardrobe Stylist: Narvell


Asst. to photographer: AshleyKay

Photo Shoot for Dallas Hair & Fashion Magazine

April 12, 2008 ReignSuit Swimwear teamed up with photographer Marcus Lopez to produce an amazing spread for the Dallas Hair & Fashion Magazine. The magazine will feature two models selected from the model call done on February 20th by ReignSuit Swimwear.


Look for us in the Dallas Hair & Fashion Magazine in July 2008.


Photographer Marcus Lopez

Models: Hope Beel and Kesli

Makeup Artist: Faces By Briana


Wardrobe Stylists: Narvell & Whitney Bracey

Intern Wardrobe Stylist: Alicia Pruett

ReignSuit Crowned Most Majestic Swimwear Collection This Season

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 14, 2008

Media Contact:
Ty Mays, Publicist
(770) 256-8710
smmays@maysmediainc.com

ReignSuit Crowned Most Majestic Swimwear Collection This Season

Inspired by the beauty of some of the world’s most exotic and luxurious coastal destinations, ReignSuit proves to be the new must-have swimwear collection for women who dare to be “Glamorous for No Reason.”

DALLAS – There’s a new swimwear collection that’s sure to reign supreme at beaches and resorts this summer. ReignSuit, launched by noted fashion stylist and runway coach, Ivory Narvell, is a high-fashion swimwear line that combines edgy, innovative styles, custom details and comfort for a suit guaranteed to make the average woman feel like royalty. From sexy, bold colors, to intricate beading and sequins, ReignSuit’s distinctive designs are already turning heads. While other vacationers are catching waves, women wearing ReignSuit will most likely be lounging by the pool, sipping cocktails, and enjoying being “glamorous for no reason.”

The name of the swimwear line is a direct reference to the way the designers hope women feel when wearing their collection. “We all dream about yachting to St. Tropez or vacationing in the Hamptons, but you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on exotic vacations to feel like royalty,” says Ivory Narvell. “All women deserve to be treated like queens, and ReignSuit is a swimwear collection that really celebrates that.”

In addition to celebrating the regality of the everyday woman, ReignSuit embodies the beauty and elegance of some of the world’s most enchanting vacation destinations. Capturing the exoticism of Egypt, the vibrancy of Trinidad and Tobago, and the luxury of Cabo San Lucas, ReignSuit features three separate collections of stunning, custom-made, ladies swimwear.

The Egyptian Collection combines classic black and gold fabrics, geometric shapes, embroidery and jewels to create a glamorous, refined look.

The Trinidad and Tobago Collection combines joyful blue and gold fabrics and floral embroidery for women who enjoy turning heads in bright, colorful swimwear.

The Cabo Collection combines glorious pink and gold fabrics with ruffled trims, embroidery and bead work for a sexy, feminine look.

The Cabo Collection has already been worn by former Miss Teen Texas US Galaxy, Larissa Taylor. ReignSuit is slated to be the official swimwear line for several major pageants throughout the United States.

“We’re thrilled that the collection has already been well received by both the fashion and the pageant communities,” says co-designer Whitney Bracey. “We really look forward to making a ‘big splash’ this season.”

The new ReignSuit line is currently available online at www.reignsuit.com. Swimwear is custom made and takes a minimum of ten days to design for each client. Pieces in the collection range from $75 - $325.

Note to the media: High-resolution photos available upon request.

Model Call in Philadelphia, PA on April 26, 2008


ReignSuit Swimwear has joined up with E Hinn Photography in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to provide a model call for print models wishing to break into swimwear modeling. One selected model will receive a free photo shoot by E Hinn Photography with a makeover. ReignSuit Swimwear will provide the model's wardrobe and accessories for the shoot.
.
Models wanting to be considered must show up at the Glamourville Studios between 12PM to 5PM. Each model must do a submission photo shoot in a two piece swimsuit with little to no makeup and their hair pulled back. There is no height requirement to be selected. The judges are looking for proportion and the ability to pose well. The photographer will be looking for a great attitude and the ability to take direction well. No experience is necessary however, professionalism is a must.
.
NOTE: Alternative submissions to be considered will not be accepted. To be considered your attendance is required.

ReignSuit Swimwear is Now Available Online


The ReignSuit Swimwear web site has a new online store featuring some items from our 2008 collection. Go to http://www.reignsuit.com/Collection08.html to purchase your customize ReignSuit so you too shall be Glamorous for no reason.



Now in stores dated March 31, 2008, Andrea Hill in JET Magazine. Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon is on the cover with her twins and Andrea is on page 43 wearing the first official ReignSuit. Congratulation Andrea Hill.

Check out our Model Mayhem page

Check out updated photos at our Model Mayhem page. http://www.modelmayhem.com/reignsuit

Current updates include photos from Photographer Greg Daniels and Photographer Kauwuane Burton. Very exciting stuff!

Glamorous For No Reason

Let it be known...
Our new slogan.

Behind The Scenes at Canyon Lake, Texas


Friday, March 21, 2008 ReignSuit Swimwear was on location at Canyon Lake, Texas with the great Greg Daniels. Photographers Greg Daniels and Don Weaver along with makeup artist Briana of Faces by Briana and wardrobe stylists/designers Ivory Narvell and Whitney Bracey collaborated to create a glamorous theme at the lake. Swimwear model Jessie Layne and pageant beauty queen Larissa Taylor, Miss Teen Texas US Galaxy 2004 provide the elegance and sophistacation that ReignSuit is all about.
The day was cool, clear, sunny and nothing less than beautiful. For updated photos from this shoot, be sure to view http://www.reignsuit.com/ within the next few days.

Behind The Scenes at The Fairmont Hotel Dallas



Monday, March 17, 2008 ReignSuit Swimwear was on location at the Fairmont Hotel in Dallas, Texas with well known photographer Kauwuane Burton. "Glamorous For No Reason" is the 2008-09 theme for ReignSuit Swimwear and the scene at the Fairmont Hotel provides just the right ambiance by the pool on the roof top.


The shoot features print model Alex Tran as the fabulous but glamorous socialite with male model Damien Peters as her personal and handsome security guard. Wardrobe stylist Ivory Narvell and makeup artist Ryan Whitney of P3-Lab worked there magic to make sure Alex look the part and Damien looked sharp. Assistant photographer Chris Porter of CPorter Studios provided delightful humor and direction on the set.


For updated photos from this shoot, be sure to view http://www.reignsuit.com/ within the next few weeks.

ReignSuit in JET Magazine


Andrea Hill will be featured wearing ReignSuit Swimwear as the JET Magazine's Beauty of the Week.


Photo by NEP Studios
Makeup by Christie Lee
Wardrobe Styling by Narvell

ReignSuit Model Call 2/20/08


On February 20, 2008 in Dallas, Texas, ReignSuit Swimwear held its first model call at Greg Daniels Studio. Nearly 40 ladies attended on a Wednesday evening to show the owners of ReignSuit Swimwear, guest photographers and local magazines why they should be an official ReignSuit Model.