Touch Smart Bra Clips: A Review

I had seen tv advertisements for products that gather bra straps together, essentially turning a regular bra into a racer-back bra. I found the idea interesting. I'd tried to do the same thing with safety pins in high school, but found it impossible. When I saw an off-brand product in a discount store, I decided to test the concept.

I purchased Personal Touch Smart Bra Clips by Tee Vee Brands. The set consists of eight clips in four colors: white, black, tan and clear. They promise to keep "bra straps from being visible from t-shirts, tank tops, dresses, workout wear and so much more!" They also increase "cleavage for a firmer, younger look."

The first thing I noticed about the clips is that they are nearly impossible to put on. In order to fit them correctly, you must first be wearing the bra, then tuck the straps into the device. Even with a mirror, I had difficulty pulling everything together and securing the clip. When my husband offered assistance, he struggled to keep the straps from twisting.

The Smart Bra Clips did live up to their first and most important claim. Once a clip is in place, it keeps straps from peeking out from under tops with thin shoulders. With little adjustment, my bra could be made to fit racer-back shirts very well. However, other tank tops and tops with unusual shapes presented a challenge. Even after fiddling with the clip's placement, it occasionally slipped back into another position and exposed the straps. In the end, I was able to make my bra fit all of my blouses, but not without some work.

The second claim that the product promises is a firmer, more lifted bust. Believe it or not, this actually happened! At least it improves the appearance of the décolletage. Aligning the straps so that the weight is borne near the neck instead of wide on the shoulders has a lifting and squeezing effect. The downside is that it creates a poor fit. It twists the garment into a position for which it is not designed. I was left with a constricted feeling and marks on my shoulders where the straps had been relocated.

I was surprised that Tee Vee advertised a better look under t-shirts. In my experience, it didn't make a difference. I was even more shocked at the suggestion that the clips be worn under workout wear. There are plenty of undergarments that are designed for that purpose. Frankly, I would purchase a proper sports bra before attempting anything beyond a walk with the Smart Bra Clip.

That is, essentially, the bottom line. Department stores carry bras that fit the kind of shirts that present strap visibility problems. They're constructed to fit properly and comfortably. Regular bras are intended to be worn under t-shirts, sweaters and other tops that cover the shoulders. They're designed to hold the weight of the bust without discomfort. Changing their design - which is basically the intent of the Smart Bra Clip - eliminates their benefits.

That being said, I'm glad I own them. They're a lifesaver in an emergency. When my mother would have used safety pins to secure the bra to the shirt, I can now use a clip to do the same job. For those of us who are too busty to go without a brassier, these are a handy addition to the sock drawer. If the right bra is in the wash, or left behind on vacation, you can still get away with the look you love. Just remember that the experience will not be as pleasant as advertised. Like high heels, I consider them to be an occasional fashion accessory for which I will grin and bear a bit of discomfort.