Tail Bait
Tail Bait, founded by sisters Lainie and Valerie DiRienzo and Jackie Rodgers, aims to make bra straps that are complete jeweled accessories.
“There are definitely companies that design on the elastic bra straps. But to me, that’s still a bra strap,” said Lainie DiRienzo, adding that the detachable straps look like fashion jewelry.
The core line includes straps with rhinestones, triple chains and an antique-style marcasite design. Other styles are added each season. The straps for Spring had a bohemian feel with turquoise beads, coral beads and gypsy-like discs. Suede straps with beads are planned for Fall.
Wholesale prices are $29 for black or nude molded-cup underwire bras, $34 to $39 for long and short camisoles, $20 for boyshorts, $29 for a set of three thongs, and $15 for extra bra straps. All styles include a set of the jeweled straps, which are interchangeable among the bras, boyshorts, thongs and camisoles.
Though Tail Bait is sold in lingerie stores, the camisoles, boyshorts and thongs have gained a strong business in contemporary boutiques. The line has expanded with off-the-shoulder cotton/spandex tees and boy-beater tanks designed to be worn with the jeweled straps.
For more information, call the Stephanie Manos showroom, located in suite C509 of the California Market Center, at (213) 623-8272. —Rhea Cortado
