Lingerie is the first thing you put on and the last thing you take off each day. Having the wrong undergarments can ruin the way we look and feel in even the most stylish outfits. Caring for your undergarments is a very important point to consider when purchasing undergarments. Real Simple online offered great suggestions for care in this article. From basics like bras and panties, to special occasion items like shapewear and tape, I compiled a list of 11 undergarments every woman should own in their drawer.
1. Nude and Black Bras
T-shirt bras can be worn every day and are an absolute must-have in your collection of undergarments. They provide a comfortable, ultra smooth fit and are nearly invisible underneath even your most fitted tops.
2. Strapless Bra
If your outfit calls for a strapless bra then that is what you should wear. Tucking your straps in or letting them hang out takes away from the overall look. A strapless bra can offer the support and look that you need properly selected. Try on various styles while lifting your arms up and moving around to determine if it will stay in place.
3. Shapewear
If you have never experienced the wonder of Spanx, then I suggest you try them out immediately. I promise that the experience will be close to life changing! For plus size women, Lane Bryant has their own line of shapewear by the name of Cacique.
4. Thong
Women’s biggest complaint is discomfort when wearing thongs. There are so many variations of thongs that I suggest experimenting until you find the right style. When you locate the “perfect” thong, buy it in a few colors so that you will always be prepared.
5. Seamless Underwear
When your panties have gotten in a bunch, it makes them very visible to others. Investing in a good pair of nude seamless underwear can solve this dilemma. Wearing a thong is also an option if you do not have seamless underwear.
6. Sexy Lingerie
This is when you stock up at the Victoria’s Secret Semi-Annual sale! Pick the prettiest colors for yourself and most daring looks for your man. Do not be afraid to experiment in this area and go for something out of your comfort zone.
7. Push-Up Bra
Push-up bras are great for giving your breast an extra lift. Women with smaller busts can give the illusion of larger breasts by simply investing in a great push-up bra. Women with fuller breasts may wear a push up bra to lift and improve form when wearing garments that are more form fitting.
8. Lace Panties
How can you not feel sexy when wearing lace underwear? This is the perfect little something to wear to feel great even when you need a pick me up.
9. Grandma Undies
These are also called “period panties” and they are worn for just that reason. For one week each month, you are allowed to totally rock these under everything!
10. Sports Bra
Support your breast as all times, especially while exercising. If you do not properly support your breasts then it could lead to back problems and even the dreaded sagging.
11. Breast Tape
This is a solution for plunging necklines. My one suggestion, do not put the tape over your nipple. It will be one of the most painful things you can experience when you try to remove the tape. Trust me.
Bonus Tips:
Care For Your Lingerie
Hand wash your lingerie and hang it out to dry. Washing machines can damage small bits of high-quality fabric very easily so take special care.
Tailor Your Lingerie
This is especially true if you purchased the lingerie in a set. The set is made to fit women who are the same size on top as they are on the bottom. Visiting a bra and lingerie tailor to get your pieces to hug and lift in all the right places may be a good option if you purchased high quality lingerie.
Overall, you should be comfortable and confident in your lingerie. Experiment with new things until you feel like an undergarment expert!
Can you think of anything else that is essential for women to know about undergarments? I would love to hear your thoughts below.
By Fashion & Style Contributor, Karen Curtis, yourstylistkaren.com
Val says
Thanks so much and love the fittiing guide. I had a proper bra fitting at Nordstroms last year and was blown away at how my foundational garments were not fitting properly. If you are in St. Louis, don’t hesitate to go to the Nordstrom’s galleria and ask for Bridget. She was super nice. (And no one told me to write this. Just sharing info. 🙂 )
The Cubicle Chick says
I actually did a post in 2011 about Nordstrom and their fitting (https://www.thecubiclechick.com/2011/09/11/getting-the-right-size-at-nordstrom-fits-america-event/) and I have been back a few times for fittings. They are awesome. SOMA is another great place to get fitted (and I love their bras). Having the right size and fit does wonders for the way your clothing fits. Thanks for commenting!
Moon Cup says
The period panties are equally important. Women can still be their sexiest with these undies on!