Lingerie school
All rounder – a nude bra isn’t always sexy but it won’t show up under a white shirt or dress, therefore we love them.
Balconette bra – this is super luxurious and will (hopefully) make you feel amazing. The height of the cups are shorter and the straps are wider set, though it offers a more uplifted shape and more support. We love.
Co-ordinate – invest in matching set that will make you feel brilliant.
Don’t stress about your measured size – if it’s smaller than you want, or larger than you hoped. The important thing is to wear what feels best on you – then it’ll look the best on you.
Every wear, or at least, every two wears is the recommended frequency for washing your bras. They collect perfume, skin cells, oils, lotions and sweat each time they’re worn so a proper wash is the only way to remove these substances and keep the bra fitting snugly.
Fit is everything – get yourself fitted at a lingerie shop or a department store, wherever you feel most comfortable. Fit experts will be on hand to ensure you’re measured properly.
G-string – not to everyone’s taste, offers the least amount of coverage of your bottom.
Handwashing lingerie is advised as often the pieces are delicate and whimsy. If you’re washing your delicates in the washing machine, use a lingerie laundry bag to protect. Do not put them in the tumble dryer.
Inner sling – a curved strip of fabric that follows the natural curve of the bra, similar to an underwire.
Just lay them flat – once washed, dry your bras in a cool place and out of the sun. Lay them flat so they can resume their original form.
Kimono – if someone is purchasing lingerie and fancy night bits, a wide-sleeved kimono can be a great choice.
Longline bras provide more coverage than other bras but without extra padding. This vintage style is back in fashion and offers great support.
Materials matter – cotton is obviously practical but silk and lace do have a place (if you’re in to that sort of thing). This is where trying on is important – lace is lovely in theory but if it itches, don’t buy it.
Negligee – a fancy silky robe that makes a great gift.
Outfit – if you need to buy a specific piece of lingerie for an occasion, bring your clothes with you to ensure you know how it’ll look once the whole look is complete.
Push-up bras are not just for young ones. These create fab cleavage and look amazing if you’re opting for a slightly lower cut blouse or top. Some styles are padded enough to add extra cup sizes but subtly
Questions to ask when you’re trying on bras: does it fit? Is the construction solid? Is it too tight? Is it too loose?
Racerback bra – straps curve away from your shoulder blades to form one centre strap down the back, offering exceptional support.
Seamless bras offer smooth appearance under clothes, making them great for wearing with clingy tops or thinner fabrics.
T-shirt bra – this is your everyday friend and is a lingerie necessity. A well fitting T-shirt bra will earn every bit you spend on it.
Underwire helps to lift and separate the bustline for enhanced support and shape. Basically, a friend to the boobs.
Va va voom with a plunge bra – low in the centre with a deep V-neckline, this will create maximum cleavage but in a natural way.
Wow factor – well, why not? If you fancy something a little sexy, go for it. An over the top set, even if it sits in the drawer for a while, can make you feel sensual.
Xpect the unexpected – less doesn’t necessarily mean more. Cover-ups and lacy pants can look and make you feel just as sexy as items with less coverage.
You – that is to say, lingerie is for you so buy and wear only the styles that make you feel wonderful. It’s the first thing you put on in the morning so love it.
Zzzzz – do you wear a bra in bed? Marilyn Monroe apparently used to sleep wearing one to prevent sagging but experts say it’s unlikely to have any real effect. Though a tight bra may lead to long-term indents in the tissue.