Victoria's Secret sued over bra rashes

CLEVELAND, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Lawyers are seeking class-action status for a suit filed by an Ohio woman claiming many women have had allergic reactions to bras sold at Victoria's Secret.

Roberta Ritter said that her skin blistered and became inflamed and itchy after she wore Angels Secret Embrace and Very Sexy Extreme Me Push-Up bras purchased at the lingerie retailer, ABC News reported. Her lawyers say they have received similar complaints from other women, including some who want to join the lawsuit.

"I was floored," Ritter said. "I thought, 'I have to come out with this. The can of worms has to be opened because it's not just me, it's other people as well.'"

The company acknowledged getting customer complaints and said it is investigating the problem. Ritter's lawyers say that lab tests found formaldehyde, but the company said that the preservative is not used in making its underwear.

A ruling on the lawsuit's status is not expected for six months.