Bethenny Frankel is one SkinnyGirl who’s doing BIG things. After her stint on the original cast of “The Real Housewives of New York City,” she went on to star in her own Bravo reality series’ “Bethenny Getting Married” and “Bethenny Ever After.” In 2009, she founded her company SkinnyGirl which includes a series of books, cocktails, face & body beauty products, exercise equipment, workout DVDs…and now shapewear for women. Bethenny teamed up with Macy’s to launch her very own collection of “Smoothers & Shapers” which are meant to be seen, not hidden.
New York Girl Style’s Style Editor, Kanika Chadda, sat down with Bethenny and got the scoop to find out what inspired her to come up with the collection and how she manages to juggle her busy schedule.
Bethenny, we’ve been following you from the very beginning and are thankful that you’ve given all women a chance to embrace their inner SkinnyGirl and feel sexy and confident in their own skin. Thanks for joining us.
BF: My pleasure. Thanks for having me.
What inspired you to come up with this line?
BF: My friends and I have always had a problem with uncomfortable lingerie and I know it’s a problem for women everywhere. So many women feel self-conscious wearing old-lady undergarments with the bulking and the bulginess and sexy lingerie isn’t any better. This collection is feminine and sophisticated and is above all – comfortable.
How do you recommend wearing the pieces?
BF: Well it’s shapewear that you actually want people to see. I wear the lace camis and bodysuits as I would a tank top by throwing on a blazer or cardigan over it. I can wear it on a night out on the town with my girlfriends or when I come home to my husband. It just eliminates the need for a lingerie drawer.
Why did you want to align yourself with Macy’s?
BF: Macy’s carries brands that are accessible, affordable, and very aspirational. The collection is indulgent, but certainly not expensive. Each of my pieces are under $50 so they’re meant for the everyday woman.
How do you feel you have a leg up over your competitors like Spanx or Victoria’s Secret?
BF: You can’t beat the price points. And the garments are supportive but comfy. They’re not overly cinching where you can’t breathe and the designs are elegant and subtle so you’re not showing too much either. Women of all shapes and sizes can wear the line.
How would you describe your personal style?
BF: I use what’s already in my closet. As a matter of fact, the pinstripe skirt I’m wearing today is five years old. I just make sure everything fits well and is tailored so I look smart and chic.
How do you find balance being a mom, television personality, businesswoman, author, and now designer?
BF: My family always comes second to my work and I’m fortunate to be a stay-at-home, work-at-home mom. As long as I get my sleep, I’m good to tackle whatever I need to do during the day.
How would you describe a New York girl’s style?
BF: New York girls are confident. They’ll wear their heels through anything and always make fun fashion choices.
What’s your mantra?
BF: “Go big or go home”…and come from a place of yes!
To learn more about Bethanny and shop her range of SkinnyGirl products, log on to www.bethenny.com.
