Lingerie Guide: Different Styles & Types

Lingerie Guide: Different Styles & Types

As far back as ancient times, women have used some style of lingerie. From simple linen slips worn by ancient Egyptians to the revolutionary push-up bra made popular by Frederick’s of Hollywood, women have enjoyed both the practical and aesthetic boost that luxury undergarments provide.

What is Lingerie?

Derived from the French word “linge” meaning linen, lingerie is a term that refers to intimate women’s apparel. Beautiful undergarments crafted from delicate silk, satin or lace. In more recent years, fabrics now include super soft organic cotton or microfiber designed for both comfort and practicality.

With the expansive range of choice currently available, women can prosper from exquisite style coupled with everyday functionality. 

Different Styles of Lingerie

Today’s lingerie styles have come a long way as designers push the boundaries between design elegance, practicality and comfort. Here is a simple lingerie guide to what you can find on the market today.

Bralette

Often the first undergarment for young girls stepping into the teen years, bralettes offer both modesty and comfort. Created without underwire, styles range from a sports-like smooth fitting support to lacey, lightly padded fun designs. 

Bustier

Originally designed as a structured undergarment back in the 1800s, bustiers (a combination of a bra and corset) consisted of rigid boning and lace that shaped women into the desired silhouette of the era. 

By the 1940’s, with the introduction of elastic, bustiers became more malleable while still producing the desired shape.

As demand increased, bustier styles evolved from undergarments to outerwear statements of empowerment. 

The modern bustier is a staple favorite for special occasions as it creates that hourglass shape with a smooth, seam free finish.

Corset

Unlike bustiers, corsets were originally used to slim and shape the torso. While they existed during the Medieval period, it was the Victorian Era in the late 1800s that saw the biggest rise in popularity. The tight, restrictive design was considered essential to feminine fashion. While corsets are not as popular today as women more favor the all encompassing design of bustiers, they still play a smaller part in today’s fashion trends.

Lace Underwear

Perhaps the epitome of elegance when it comes to lingerie types, All Day Lace is the hands down winner. The rich, silky intricate weave screams sexy yet classy. Today’s fabric is comfortable for all day wear yet still exquisite enough for special occasions.

Mesh Bikini Underwear

A newer kid on the lingerie block, the stretchable Bare Mesh is commanding attention. Ultra lightweight yet breathable, the delicate fabric will support you while keeping you cool on hot days.

Don’t let the sheer sexiness fool you. The spacer fabric molds to you and disappears under clothing.

Bodysuit

The sleek, clean lines of a bodysuit continue to play a strong part in current fashion trends. Available in a wide range of fabrics, shapes and styles, they can be adapted for any occasion. The one-piece garment will stay put as it creates a foundational layer that compliments your fashion statement.

It’s a trend that started back in the 1950s and continues to rage in popularity.

Wearing Lingerie for Special Occasion 

While today’s lingerie styles are practical and designed with purpose, there are special occasions that will call for special attention.

For fitted outfits that need a more structured silhouette, bustiers, strapless bras or Bare Mesh are more likely to disappear under the fabric and create smooth, clean, shaped lines. 

Date nights or any occasion where you need a little extra lift, exquisite lace is a must. The sheer sexiness and intricate designs are luxurious against your skin. Go for black or a pop of vibrant color and watch your energy soar.

How Lingerie Helps Boost Confidence

Feminine undergarments play a bigger role than just basic hygiene and practicality.

Women for centuries have enjoyed the feeling of personal empowerment when they look and feel put together.

Often an expression of individual style, today’s woman can match with undergarments that connect with the look they are going after. 

Well fitted lingerie, not only promotes better posture, but it encourages better body positivity and an overall self esteem boost.

Why Shop ThirdLove for the Best Lingerie

From basic everyday sets to intricately elegant lace combos, ThirdLove has all the different styles you need for your Lingerie Collection. Find the looks you are going after in colors that will capture your imagination, create your desired shape and keep you feeling supported and confidently styled.