We may think a lot about our clothing, but when did you last think about your lingerie wardrobe? The right lingerie can make any outfit look better, so it is important to own functional, beautiful lingerie items that make us feel and look our best.
But where to start? Bras come in many different styles – full cup, half cup, even quarter cup, balcony, seamless, strapless, plunge… the list goes on. Then there are basques, corsets and negligees. That’s before you move on to the vast array of knicker styles; thongs, full briefs, boy shorts… There are so many choices it can be mind-boggling. Plus, in these days of tight budgets, it is important to know what you really need.
I asked the experts from several of my favourite lingerie stores to help. Their most important tip?
Choose lingerie that is really comfortable but that also looks great underneath your clothes. Lingerie should make you feel good as well as look good.
Here are some more of the lingerie wardrobe tips they shared with me.
Bras
A bra that fits perfectly can make a huge difference to how you look and feel. Pinchy straps or cups that do not fit properly feel uncomfortable and can make you look uncomfortable too.
It is really important to have regular professional bra fittings. Our bra size can change over time, so every six months is ideal, especially if you have lost or gained weight. The majority of stores offer this as a free service.
Everyday Bras
Keeping your budget in mind, try on a range of bra styles and see which you prefer. Keep in mind that we cannot all wear every type of bra. For example, when I lost weight a few years ago, I lost volume in the top of my breasts, meaning that I generally need a balcony style bra to give me the best look and feel.
How Many Bras Do I Need in my Lingerie Wardrobe?
Experts recommend a large number of everyday bras (5 to 6) plus bras for special outfits. This is understandable as they are in the business of selling them. However, the demands on our budgets may not allow for this.
You need to be able to wash your bras every other day as a minimum so two to three is really a bare minimum and three to four are ideal if your budget allows. This way you are not wearing the same bra every day, so they won’t wear out too quickly.
Ensuring smooth lines doesn’t have to mean a T-shirt bra either (although it can be handy to have a T-shirt bra for thinner, tighter fitting materials). Designers have become very sophisticated and now there is beautiful lace and silk underwear which sits perfectly under more fitted clothing.
Sports Bras
If you’re working out, a sports bra is absolutely vital. Your breasts are composed of tissue that can be damaged by repetitive movement and aerobic activity. Gravity is enough of an issue without damaging the ligaments and tissue of your breasts when you exercise. A sports bra will really protect them from damage and help prevent sagging.
However, do not get in the habit of wearing a sports bra all day. There are other options that are more comfortable and can still support your breasts.
Bras for Special Occasions
Most of us will need a strapless bra from time to time, whether that’s for an evening gown or a strappy summer top. A well fitted strapless bra won’t slip down and should be comfortable too.
Another option is a bra with convertible/removable straps. This economical option will give ultimate versatility.
What Colours Do I Need In My Lingerie Wardrobe?
White lingerie can be very visible even when worn under a white item of clothing. If you want your lingerie to be invisible a very neutral or ‘nude’ colour may be your best bet.
Bear in mind though that some paler pastels, especially pale pink, can sit invisibly under a white clothes too.
Another option is a bra with convertible/removable straps. This will give ultimate versatility and is a good option if money is tight[
Underpants / Knickers / Panties
Depending on where you live, the word for underpants can definitely vary! Whatever you call them, comfortable underpants are a must. They also need to suit your outfit.
Choosing matching briefs really comes down to personal taste. Choose whatever you like but do make sure you have some with no VPL for those skinny trousers and pencil skirts.
If you are wearing an outfit that is very body conscious, you may want to choose underwear with shapewear built in to go underneath it. Ideally your underpants will not show through your clothing, whatever you are wearing.
Aside from that, it is all about comfort, so choose a style of underpants that you feel comfortable in.
Slips/Camisoles Etc
Whether you need slips, camisoles, basques etc will depend on your wardrobe. I believe it is a good idea to have a basic slip and camisole in a neutral colour just in case you need them for modesty’s sake when wearing a sheer dress or low cut blouse.
Shapewear
That leaves shapewear. Some of us need a little bit of extra help at certain times to help us feel great in a particular outfit. Shapewear is brilliant for creating smooth lines and hiding any lumps and bumps. There are some gorgeous corset briefs and chemises available.
Luxury Lingerie
If you can, treat yourself to a couple of luxury items. It is always nice to have a little bit of glamour in your life. Luxury does not have to be expensive. A pretty nightie or a lovely pair of pyjamas can give you a real lift.
Basic Lingerie Wardrobe
In summary then, this is what your lingerie wardrobe should look like:
Everyday bras (including a t-shirt bra) x 2 to 3
Strapless or convertible bra x 1
Shapewear (optional) – as needed
Nightwear x 3
Thank you to the industry experts I consulted when researching this post. This is not a sponsored post.
Comments & Reviews
Bonnie Way says
These are great tips and ideas! My bra stash is mostly “nursing” these days, but I have a few nice ones for days when I can go out without the baby. 🙂 As for my other lingerie… well, it hardly comes out. Most of it was a gift from my girlfriends when I got married. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
April Harris says
Thank you, Bonnie 🙂 There are some beautiful nursing bras out there too – and do be encouraged to bring out the lingerie you have tucked away. I’m always ‘saving’ things too, but I’m trying to encourage myself to start using them!!
Anna Hettick says
Awesome tips! I am in need of some new bras badly!! 🙂
April Harris says
Thank you, Anna 🙂
Jody @ Mommy Moment says
I love this post. I think having a good bra is very important. I think 90% of the time I like what I am wearing under my clothes more than what is covering them LOL.
April Harris says
Thank you, Jody! I agree, wearing nice lingerie really can be a confidence booster 🙂
Mandoo says
I tried it and it worked en yeah my confidence number one……aaaaah 🙂