Different Types Of Lingerie | The Complete Guide To Lingerie
Lingerie is intimate apparel, largely designed to be worn in the bedroom or during sensual moments. Lingerie is often made of lightweight materials such as satin and may be embellished with lace, bows, fishnet, and other adornments and tends to connote a sexy style. Our complete guide to lingerie breaks down the various types of lingerie, how to wear them, and common features.There are many different lingerie types that each have their own terminology. Here, we've broken down the most common lingerie styles along with examples of each one.
A teddy is a one-piece type of lingerie that covers the torso and crotch (unless it's a crotchless teddy, which has an opening). A teddy combines the effect of a camisole top and panty into one garment. Many teddies are made of eye-catching materials such as lace. Teddies will likely show off the wearer's cleavage.
A bodysuit is similar to a teddy, a bodysuit can also be worn as part of a fashion outfit rather than intended solely for the bedroom. Bodysuits tend to have a tighter fit than teddies, and are more like a one-piece bathing suit in their construction.
Babydoll lingerie is a one-piece short nightgown that's snug around the chest, like a bra, and then loose and flowing below, with the hemline usually landing between the belly button and waist. Babydolls are often made of sheer material and may come with matching panties.
A corset is a garment designed to minimize the waist and uplift the breasts. Historically, corsets have had boning made from baleen in them and were often secured extremely tightly. Modern corsets are designed to be more wearable but still provide an hourglass figure. The two main types of corsets are overbust (as seen above) and underbust. Overbust corsets cover the bust (breasts), while underbust corsets push the bust upward from below, and may be worn with a bra.
A bustier is similar to a corset since it also pushes up the bust, but it's less restrictive and tight. Bustiers typically end at the waist or hips and are likely to be more comfortable to wear than corsets. A bustier is an excellent option for those who want to enhance the appearance of their breasts; a bustier performs a similar role to a push-up bra, with an even more dramatic presentation.
A bra is an undergarment designed to support the breasts. Most bras have shoulder straps; strapless bras run across the chest horizontally. Bras may have underwire for added support. Common types of bras include padded, unpadded, t-shirt bras, push-up bras, and demi bras, among others.
A bralette is a type of bra that generally doesn’t have wire and offers lighter support. Bralettes can easily be worn as bra tops underneath a jacket or sheer top or on their own as a mini crop top.
Panties are underwear that can come in various styles, from G-string or thong panties, which feature a string that bisects the butt cheeks, to full or half coverage. Crotchless panties are a type of panties without a crotch for easy access.
A garter is a band of fabric, usually made with elastic, worn around the thigh to keep stockings in place. A garter is a traditional part of weddings in which the garter is tossed into the crowd of guests as a symbol of good luck. The more common garter belt is worn around the waist, with straps attached that are used to keep stockings held in place. Garter belts can be worn on their own or with a matching lingerie set. They are often used more for decorative purposes than everyday use in modern times.
