Thread: Reinforcing a Neckelmann's?

I have a silver and white Neckelmann's that I looooove. However, the more I wear it, the more it seems to stretch out. Is there a way to reinforce the side straps and make them more like a typical dance bra without having to do major surgery? I hate to do anything too complicated with it in case I end up ruining it. I'm top heavy, and this is probably my most flattering, comfortable costume.

Gros grain ribbon is your friend. Measure yourself from where the back straps meet the cups to the center of the back and then give yourself about 1/4 of an inch on both sides. Pin the ribbon to the strap, stretching the strap to fit the ribbon. Then whip stitch it into place. Do this on both the top and the bottom. And while you are at it, the shoulder straps. Now, if the bra doe not have underwire, you might want to build in new cups while you are doing the above. Just a thought.

While this sounds complicated, it actually isn't. You can actually stitch the ribbons to the sides with a sewing machine if you are good with a machine. Just make sure the thread matches the beading, etc.

{{{HUGS}}}

Ooooh, I think I can do that! Thank you!

Hey!

Have you ever thought about sewing a bra inside the bra?

I've done this for extra shape, padding and cleavage (because I have the opposite problem) but I'm sure you can use this trick for added support. It's a great way to add structure to a flimsy top.

Just get your favorite type of bra (make sure it's the right shape to rest snugly on the inside of the costume bra), cut the sides and straps off, and stitch it into the inside of your Neckelmann's. Voila!

The cups actually fit perfectly. It's the side straps that are starting to get stretchy.

In addition to adding an extra layer of elastic or grossgrain to the straps, you can also easily add heft to the band/sides: Just sew extra, heavy elastic into the sides. Attach firmly at where the sides meet the bra cup and where the band closes, and tack into place two or three times in between. (Hope that makes sense.) Works like a charm.