Women’s lingerie refers to all types of underwear designed for intimacy, comfort, and aesthetics. It includes bras, panties, bustiers, bodysuits, slips, and more.
Feminine lingerie has been part of the fashion world for decades. It reflects a long history, craftsmanship, and a diversity of styles suited to all desires. Choosing lingerie is just as important as choosing clothes. It must be selected carefully, considering comfort, aesthetics, and the occasion for which it will be worn.
The history of lingerie
- Middle Ages and Renaissance : The lingerie of that era had nothing to do with what we know today. Underwear was often made of linen, a fabric known for its softness and its ability to absorb moisture. During the Renaissance, the corset appeared to shape women’s bodies. Corsets were reinforced with whale bones or metal stays, ensuring firm support.
- 19th Century : Corsets evolved, and new garments such as the petticoat and panties became popular. During the Paris World’s Fair, Herminie Cadolle presented the first bra prototype, the corselet-gorge, under the name Bien-Être. The fair showcased many lingerie and corsetry inventions, gradually announcing the end of the corset.
- 20th Century : Throughout this century, women demanded more comfort and freedom of movement. Rigid corsets progressively disappeared, giving way to softer and more practical underwear. The widespread adoption of bras and panties occurred around 1920.
- Today : Nowadays, lingerie continues to reinvent itself with fashion trends. It comes in a wide range of styles, shapes, sizes, and materials. It plays a key role in personal expression and everyday self-acceptance.
The Different types of women’s lingerie
Here is a summary table of the different types of lingerie and their main features:
| Type of lingerie | Main Forms | Particularities / Usage | |
|
Bra |
|
Bust support, comfort, or aesthetics |
|
|
Panties & briefs |
Classic brief, high-waist brief, boyshort, thong, string, menstrual panties |
Daily use, comfort, seduction, protection | |
|
Bodysuits |
Shaping bodysuit, lace bodysuit, wireless bodysuit |
Fashion lingerie, shaping or sexy |
|
|
Corsets & bustiers |
Boned corset, strapless bustier, waist cincher |
Enhances silhouette, special occasions |
|
|
Nightdresses & camisoles |
Satin slip, lace slip, camisole, babydoll |
Seduction, night comfort | |
|
Lingerie sets |
Bra + panties set, sexy set, bridal set |
Visual harmony, special occasions | |
|
Basques & garter belts |
Classic basque, bustier basque, detachable garters |
Retro style, seduction, sexy lingerie |
|
|
Swimwear |
One-piece, bikini, tankini, trikini, bandeau top, triangle top, demi-cup top |
Summer, sports, beach, comfort |
|
|
Lingerie accessories |
Garter, stockings, tights, kimonos |
Complete and enhance an outfit |
To better understand all the terms used in the lingerie universe (balconette, spacer, panty…), check out our lingerie glossary, which gathers all the essential definitions.
Focus on the Bra
With so many shapes, colors, styles, and materials, it can be difficult to choose. Knowing the specific features of each model helps find the one that best suits your body shape and needs. You can find all the necessary information in our complete bra guide.
Focus on Panties and Briefs
Essential for everyday use, panties and briefs come in a wide variety of shapes to suit every desire. From the discreet thong to the full-coverage boyshort, each form meets a specific need and offers comfort and style. For more details, our panties & briefs guide walks you step by step through your choice.
Focus on Swimwear
As soon as the sun comes out, swimwear becomes an essential part of summer lingerie. Whether you prefer a one-piece, a bikini, or a tankini, each style meets different needs depending on the activity and body shape.
To combine style and comfort under the sun, see our swimwear guide, full of advice on materials, shapes, and sizes.
The Craftsmanship Behind Each Piece of Lingerie
From design to production, creating lingerie requires the synergy of multiple talents.
- Design: Stylists research trends and seasonal colors, draw sketches, and select fabrics to create products that combine fashion with practicality.
- Technical conception: Pattern makers transform sketches into technical details: patterns, size grading, and prototype adjustments.
- Choice of materials: Lace, cotton, microfiber… Each material is carefully chosen for softness, comfort, and elasticity.
- The magic of finishing: Seamstresses or prototypists bring the product to life by assembling all the pieces needed to create a bra.
“We pay great attention to the choice of fabrics, cuts, and fit to ensure that support is adapted to all sizes and body shapes.”
— Guilhermina, Head of the Creation Design Office
Trends and Practical Tips
Timeless Trends
Lingerie trends are constantly evolving depending on usage.
However, some elements remain popular through the years:
- Lace: Sensual and elegant, it adds texture and refinement to every piece.
- Floral prints: Romantic and delicate, they evoke femininity in every season.
- Minimalism: Clean lines and neutral colors for a chic, comfortable style.
For seasonal lingerie inspirations, check out our special trends guide.
A few Tips for Your Lingerie
- Your lingerie should be treated with care, like your most precious jewelry. To preserve its lifespan, wash it by hand with mild detergent. To dry bras, lay them flat away from sunlight. Storage is just as important: cups should be nested to avoid deformation.
- Your lingerie should be chosen according to the occasion. Wedding, sports, pregnancy, holidays… each context has its specific lingerie.
- Every body type has its ideal lingerie. Choosing the right bra and panty size guarantees comfort throughout the day.
