Lala Kent’s Theory On Getting Dressed

Lala Kent has a theory about getting dressed: It’s not so much about the outfit as it is what’s happening beneath it. “If I’m not feeling right under my clothes, the whole mood is wrecked,” the reality TV star shares. That perspective has carried her through some of life’s most hectic moments: new motherhood, days on set, and building multiple businesses from the ground up.

"Life is chaotic," she says. "I'm a single mom, so I often feel exhausted. There's this pressure to 'do it all' — be hands-on and look good at the same time.” She doesn't dress for one version of herself because there isn't just one. "I want to feel pulled together, while also feeling comfortable. I want to take my 'school drop off' look and head straight into a meeting." That’s why the way she presents herself, she says, is influenced by everything she has to conquer in one day. It’s also why a strong foundation — both figuratively and literally — is crucial in helping her feel secure through it all. “I want everything sitting right and feeling in place, no matter the outfit.”

Kent has been leaning on a rotation of pieces from Maidenform to take on the quiet work of holding a look together…while she does everything else. Maidenform designs intimates that deliver the fit, shape, and support women rely on to feel ready for whatever life throws their way.

Her go-tos include the Dreamwire Strapless bra with cushioned underwire for shape, lift, and comfort, and the Sculpting Thigh Slimmer, an extra-firm but breathable pair of shapewear that keeps things snatched and secure. "They elevate my look, are comfortable, and I still feel sexy,” she says of the pieces.

But her connection to the pieces goes beyond function. It’s about confidence. "I love the female body and everything we get to do. I love that in a matter of seconds I can have a very reserved, mom-friendly look, then throw on a push-up bra and feel like va-va-voom."

It’s also about mood. “[Feeling put-together] means the difference between a productive day and a bust," Kent says. "When I take a moment to pull myself together, it sets the tone for the rest of the day. If I'm elevated, my day and what I accomplish is elevated." It's a small ritual with an outsized impact — the kind of thing that has less to do with anyone watching and more to do with how she feels out in the world.

"My confidence doesn't come from outside validation," she adds. "It took many years to feel wholeheartedly confident, and it started from the inside out. It feels good knowing I have accepted and learned to love being me."

Maidenform is part of Gildan, a leading apparel manufacturer.