I feel like I can make an accurate assumption when I say that men and women alike (for the most part) LOVE lingerie. And rightfully so! Not only can undergarments be sexy, fun, and unique, but they're also a necessity. I'm going to cover three sets of lingerie that every woman should own at any given time.
And I'm using the term "lingerie" loosely, of course. I'm using it for the sole purpose of all-inclusive undergarments. But "undergarments" is such an ugly word. And don't even get me started with the word "underpants." *shudders*.
I've included some great options for women of all sizes. Don't know what size you are? Visit your nearest Victoria's Secret, Aerie, or other lingerie store. They usually take your measurements for free. (Do keep in mind though that Victoria's Secret can sometimes run small. So a woman who is a B cup in most stores may be a C cup at Victoria's Secret.) If you don't want a stranger feeling you up, you can also take a test to get fitted online, like at True and Co. It's a series of questions that help you find your true size, then the website picks out the best fits for you.
"This is a fashion blog. Why are you writing about lingerie?" Because you wear lingerie! It's just like anything else in your closet. It's supposed to reflect your style, your personality, and make you feel good about yourself. It's the first thing you see in the mirror in the morning, so why not start off every morning as your sexiest, most confident self? It's amazing what a confidence-booster a correct-fitting bra can be.
"I don't have the budget to splurge on brands like Victoria's Secret." That's totally okay. Personally, I see lingerie as an investment. If you invest the money up front, the high-quality products can last all year, or even longer if you treat them right. If you still prefer to save money, no worries. I've included some brands below that are still good quality!
Before we "shop", keep some things in mind depending on your size:
AA, A, and B cups:
C cups and above:
Bottom half tips
Alright, enough of that. Time to shop! Check out the three sets of lingerie that you need in your closet, and where to get them in your size.
And I'm using the term "lingerie" loosely, of course. I'm using it for the sole purpose of all-inclusive undergarments. But "undergarments" is such an ugly word. And don't even get me started with the word "underpants." *shudders*.
I've included some great options for women of all sizes. Don't know what size you are? Visit your nearest Victoria's Secret, Aerie, or other lingerie store. They usually take your measurements for free. (Do keep in mind though that Victoria's Secret can sometimes run small. So a woman who is a B cup in most stores may be a C cup at Victoria's Secret.) If you don't want a stranger feeling you up, you can also take a test to get fitted online, like at True and Co. It's a series of questions that help you find your true size, then the website picks out the best fits for you.
"This is a fashion blog. Why are you writing about lingerie?" Because you wear lingerie! It's just like anything else in your closet. It's supposed to reflect your style, your personality, and make you feel good about yourself. It's the first thing you see in the mirror in the morning, so why not start off every morning as your sexiest, most confident self? It's amazing what a confidence-booster a correct-fitting bra can be.
"I don't have the budget to splurge on brands like Victoria's Secret." That's totally okay. Personally, I see lingerie as an investment. If you invest the money up front, the high-quality products can last all year, or even longer if you treat them right. If you still prefer to save money, no worries. I've included some brands below that are still good quality!
Before we "shop", keep some things in mind depending on your size:
AA, A, and B cups:
- Pay attention to the material that the cups are made out of. Some cups can be made of a silky or loose cotton material, which oftentimes gaps around a small cup-size. Your best bet is to buy a cup with a light lining or even padding, to give the cup structure.
- A good thing you don't have to worry about is underwire. It can be uncomfortable and dig into skin if it doesn't fit properly. You're welcome to wear underwire bras, but many women prefer without if they have the option.
- Bandeaus are a great alternative to bras - especially in the summer.
- Bows, lace, and appliques on the center of bras are more likely to show through tops with a smaller chest. Everyone likes a fancy bra - and is entitled to wear one - but you may have to resort to wearing the lacy bra with a cable knit sweater or denim jacket.
C cups and above:
- It's important to shop for bras that have multiple clasps in the back. With more precious cargo up front, the back clasps can strain with only one hook.
- Watch for "muffin top". We've heard of the phenomenon around the hips, but it happens at the bra's cup as well. If you can see your chest spilling out of your bra through your t-shirt, it's time to get the bra in the next size up.
- Thicker straps give more support and hold the ladies up higher.
- If you have a DD cup or higher, a plunge bra may not be your best bet. With all the space between the breasts, gravity inevitably intervenes. Look for bras with a light push-up or just an inch or two of extra fabric between.
- ALWAYS underwire - unless you're sports-bra shopping. Then it's optional.
Bottom half tips
- If you have bigger hips (like me), look for panties with a lace waist instead of an elastic band. Lace is more forgiving and can eliminate the visibility of a muffin top. Elastic digs in and isn't very forgiving. Aerie and Victoria's secret have awesome "5 pairs for $26" deals with these options.
Alright, enough of that. Time to shop! Check out the three sets of lingerie that you need in your closet, and where to get them in your size.