The women’s lingerie refers to the entire range of undergarments designed for intimacy, comfort, and aesthetics. It includes bras, panties, bustiers, bodysuits, nightdresses…
Women’s lingerie has been part of the fashion world for several decades. It reflects a rich history, craftsmanship, and a wide variety of styles adapted to every desire. Choosing women’s lingerie is just as essential as choosing clothing. It must be selected carefully, taking into account comfort, aesthetics, and the occasion for which it will be worn.
At the end of the article, discover THE collection that answers your questions!
The history of lingerie
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Middle Ages and Renaissance: lingerie at the time had nothing to do with what we know today. Undergarments were often made of linen, a material known for its softness and moisture absorption. During the Renaissance, the corset appeared to shape the female body. Corsets were reinforced with whalebone or metal to ensure firm support.
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19th century: corsets evolved and new pieces such as petticoats and panties became popular. At the Paris World’s Fair, Herminie Cadolle presented the first bra prototype, the “corselet-gorge,” under the name “Bien-Être.” The exhibition was full of innovations in lingerie and corsetry, slowly announcing the end of the corset.
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20th century: during this century, women demanded more comfort and freedom of movement. Rigid corsets gradually disappeared in favor of softer and more practical underwear. The democratization of the bra and panties took place around 1920.
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Today: nowadays, lingerie continues to reinvent itself with fashion trends. It comes in a wide variety 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 all lingerie types and their shapes.
| Type of lingerie | Main shapes | Features / Use | |
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Support, comfort, or aesthetics | ||
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Classic briefs, high-waist panties, shorty, tanga, thong, period panties |
Everyday wear, comfort, seduction, protection | ||
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Shaping bodysuit, lace bodysuit, wireless bodysuit |
Fashion lingerie, shaping or sexy | ||
|
Corsets & bustiers |
Boned corset, strapless bustier, waist cincher corset |
Body shaping, special occasions | |
|
Satin nightdress, lace nightdress, camisole, babydoll |
Seduction, night comfort | ||
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Bra + panties set, sexy set, bridal set |
Visual harmony, special occasions | ||
|
Garter belts & suspenders |
Classic garter belt, bustier garter belt, removable garters |
Retro style, seduction, sexy lingerie | |
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One-piece, bikini, tankini, trikini, bandeau, triangle or underwired tops |
Summer, sport, beach, comfort | ||
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Garters, stockings, tights, kimonos |
Complete and enhance an outfit |
To better understand all terms used in the lingerie world (balconette, spacer, panty, etc.), please consult our lingerie glossary which gathers all essential definitions.
Focus on bras
With the variety of shapes, colors, styles, and materials, choosing is not easy. That is why understanding the specifics of each model helps you find the one that best matches your body shape and needs. You can find all necessary information in our complete bra guide.
Focus on panties & briefs
Essential for everyday life, panties and briefs come in a wide variety of shapes to suit every desire. From the discreet tanga to the more covering shorty , each style meets a specific need and offers benefits in terms of comfort and style. To learn more about these lingerie pieces, our guide helps you step by step in your choice.
Focus on swimwear
As soon as the sun appears, swimwear becomes an essential part of women’s summer lingerie. Whether you prefer a one-piece , a bikini , or a tankini, each model meets different needs depending on activity and body shape.
To combine style and comfort under the sun, consult our swimwear guide with many tips on materials, shapes, and sizing.
The know-how behind each lingerie piece
From design to production, creating lingerie requires the synergy of multiple talents.
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Design: Designers research seasonal trends and colors, sketch designs, and choose materials to create products that meet both current trends and user needs.
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Technical development: Pattern makers turn sketches into technical designs: pattern making, sizing, and prototype adjustments.
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Material selection: Lace, cotton, microfiber… each material is carefully chosen for softness, comfort, and elasticity.
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The magic of finishing: Seamstresses and prototypists bring the product to life by assembling all the pieces of a bra.
“We pay close attention to material choices, cuts, and fit to ensure support is adapted to all sizes and body shapes.”
Guilhermina, Head of Design Office
Trends and practical advice
What are timeless trends?
Lingerie trends are constantly evolving and changing depending on usage.
However, some elements remain and continue to be loved over many years.
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Lace: sensuality and elegance, adding depth and refinement to each piece.
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Floral prints: romantic and delicate, these patterns evoke femininity in every season.
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Minimalism: clean lines and neutral colors for a chic and comfortable style.
To stay up to date with lingerie trends, aligned with seasons and occasions, check our special trends guide.
Practical lingerie care tips
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Your lingerie should be treated with care like your most precious jewelry. To preserve your pieces, wash them gently by hand. Bras should be laid flat to dry, away from sunlight. Storage is also important: cups should be nested to avoid deformation.
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Lingerie should be chosen according to occasions: weddings, sports, pregnancy, holidays… each context requires suitable pieces.
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Every body shape has its ideal lingerie. Choosing the right bra and panty size ensures comfort throughout the day.
This article was written by Sélène, our Content Manager, in collaboration with Guilhermina, our Head of the Design Office.
