CHEST FRIENDS

Jenette Bras has an international bra selection and cute decor, including vintage Playboy magazines

"Let's face it: We have a knockout rack. And it has to be managed." That's the manifesto of Jenette Bras, a new Pasadena shop devoted to large-chested women.

This cheerful pink shop and its sexy bras are a far cry from the drab lingerie-buying experience of most full-figured women. Proprietress Jenette Goldstein and her staff are so adept, they can tell at a glance what size is needed, from 32D to 42K.

Pretty and exuberant, 50-something Goldstein (a proud 32G) suggests designs priced from $62 to $183, suitable for V-necks, T-shirts and more. She coaches clients on the "swoop and scoop" of properly putting on their bras; since 90 percent of support comes from the band, a well-fit bra won't cut into even the most well-endowed shoulders.

Brands are European, including Empreinte, Marie Jo and Freya. We're especially intrigued by bras from Marlies Dekkers, a Dutch former art school student who now makes sleek hardware-ornamented bras worn as outerwear by celebs like Lady Gaga.

This is the second Jenette Bras location (the first is in East Hollywood)--proof that in every economy (and blouse), there's room for a little expansion.

Jenette Bras, 18 E. Holly St., Pasadena; 626-744-9484 or jenettebras.com