The Ultimate Guide to Lingerie Styles

From delicate lace to bold corsets, the variety of lingerie styles available today ensures that there is something to suit every body type, occasion, and mood. Whether you’re looking for something comfortable and casual or ready to turn heads, understanding the different types of lingerie can help you make the best choice for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most popular lingerie styles, from corsets and bustiers to babydolls and bodysuits, and everything in between.

1. Corset

A corset is a classic lingerie piece known for its structured design that cinches the waist and creates an hourglass figure. Corsets often feature boning (a firm support material), lace-up details, and can be worn as a foundation garment under clothing or as part of a seductive outfit. Perfect for shaping and defining your waist, corsets add a touch of vintage-inspired elegance to your lingerie collection.

2. Bustier

Similar to a corset, a bustier is a form-fitting garment that emphasizes the bust and waist. Unlike corsets, bustiers typically offer lighter control and are often made from lace or satin. Bustiers can be worn under dresses for added support or as an alluring piece of lingerie for special occasions.

3. Babydoll

A babydoll is a playful and flirty piece that combines comfort with sex appeal. Often made from sheer fabrics like lace or silk, babydolls are short, loose-fitting dresses that typically feature a soft, flowing silhouette. They are perfect for creating a relaxed yet seductive look, ideal for lounging or a romantic evening.

4. Bodysuit

A bodysuit is a one-piece garment that combines lingerie with functionality. Bodysuits are typically form-fitting and can range from sheer and sultry to supportive and practical. Some designs include lacing, cut-outs, or illusion panels to create a more seductive look, while others are ideal as a sleek foundation under clothing.

5. Bra

The bra is the most essential lingerie piece in every woman’s wardrobe. With countless styles ranging from push-up bras to sports bras, the right bra provides support, shape, and comfort. Here are some common styles.

• Balconette Bra: With a lower cut and wider straps, the balconette bra lifts the bust and creates a flattering neckline.
• Bralette: A comfortable, wire-free bra often made from lace or cotton, bralettes are perfect for lounging or wearing under casual tops.
• Push-Up Bra: Designed to enhance cleavage, the push-up bra uses padding or underwire to lift the bust for added volume.
• Balconette Bra: This bra style is ideal for giving the bust an uplifted, rounded appearance and is often favored for low-cut tops or dresses.

6. Camisole

A camisole is a lightweight top often made from silk, satin, or lace, typically featuring thin straps. Camisoles can be worn alone as a sultry piece of lingerie or as part of a layering ensemble for added elegance. Perfect for warm nights or paired with shorts for a relaxing, chic vibe.

7. Chemise

A chemise is a short, sleeveless dress made from delicate fabrics like silk, satin, or lace. Often resembling a slip, chemises are typically more form-fitting and designed to skim the body, offering a sensual, soft look. Perfect for bedtime or a special occasion, chemises are both comfortable and alluring.

8. Boyshorts

Boyshorts are a type of lingerie that offers more coverage than traditional panties. They have a low-rise waistband and provide full coverage over the hips and rear, making them both practical and stylish. Available in lace, cotton, or mesh, boyshorts can be a comfortable alternative to thongs while still providing a flattering fit.

9. Panties

Panties are a basic yet essential piece of lingerie. Available in countless styles, panties can be made from materials such as cotton, lace, silk, or nylon. Common styles include:

• Thong: A minimal-coverage design with a narrow strip of fabric at the back, perfect for avoiding panty lines.
• G-String: Even more minimal than a thong, the G-string offers virtually no rear coverage, making it ideal for wearing with form-fitting clothing.
• Bikini: A classic and versatile option, bikini panties offer moderate coverage and are available in many different fabrics and styles.

10. Bodystocking

A bodystocking is a full-body garment, typically made from fishnet, lace, or sheer fabric, that covers the entire body. These garments are often worn for special occasions or intimate moments, providing a seductive look that highlights the shape of the body.

11. Garter Belt

A garter belt is a piece of lingerie that sits around the waist and holds suspenders or garters, which attach to stockings. Often paired with a chemise, corset, or babydoll, the garter belt adds a vintage-inspired touch to your lingerie collection and creates a more sensual look.

12. Negligee

A negligee is a luxurious, often sheer piece of lingerie that’s designed to be elegant and seductive. Made from satin or silk, negligees typically have delicate straps and flowy designs, making them perfect for a romantic evening or relaxing at home.

13. Brazilian Knickers

Brazilian knickers are a stylish hybrid between thongs and briefs. With moderate rear coverage and a low-rise waistband, these knickers are designed to provide a flattering fit while still showing off your curves. Often made from lace or mesh, Brazilian knickers are perfect for those who want a little more coverage than a thong but still crave a sensual look.

14. Briefs

Briefs are a classic style of underwear offering full coverage and a comfortable fit. They come in various rises, from high-waisted to low-rise, and can be made from cotton, lace, or silk. This versatile style is perfect for everyday wear.

15. Bikini Briefs

Bikini briefs offer a medium level of coverage with a low-rise waistband. Available in various fabrics such as lace, cotton, and silk, they are perfect for a more casual, comfortable look while still offering a flattering fit.

16. Bloomers

Bloomers are loose-fitting, soft, and often made from cotton or lace. These vintage-inspired undergarments have a relaxed fit and are perfect for lounging or for a playful, retro vibe.

17. Easy Open Cups

For those looking to add a little excitement to their lingerie collection, easy open cups are designed to provide easy access to the bust area. Often found in corsets and bustiers, they offer a daring yet comfortable style, perfect for intimate moments.

18. Pasties

Pasties are small, adhesive coverings worn over the nipples. Often used in burlesque performances or for seductive moments, they are available in a variety of lace, glitter, or leather designs.

19. Lingerie Costumes

For playful or themed events, lingerie costumes can be the perfect choice. From French maid outfits to nurse uniforms, these costumes allow you to express your fun and adventurous side while still embracing the sensuality of lingerie.

Surprised?

The world of lingerie is vast and exciting, offering a variety of styles to suit every personality and body shape. Whether you’re looking for a practical everyday bra, a sultry corset, or a comfortable bodysuit, there is something for every occasion and every mood. By exploring these different lingerie styles, you can find the pieces that enhance your confidence and complement your unique shape. No matter which style you choose.