When it comes to lingerie, understanding the different styles and terms can enhance your shopping experience. In this ultimate guide to lingerie, we’ll define lingerie items and break down essential lingerie terms from A to Z. Whether you're new to the world of intimate apparel or just looking to brush up on the latest trends, this guide will help you navigate the exciting, sensual world of lingerie with confidence.
A - Adjustable Straps
A must-have in any lingerie drawer, adjustable straps ensure that you get the perfect fit every time. Whether it’s for bras, bodysuits, or babydolls, having the ability to adjust your straps keeps everything in place while offering comfort and support.
B - Babydoll
Babydolls are loose-fitting, flirty, and oh-so-sexy. Designed to gently skim the body, they often come in sheer fabrics with playful details like lace or ribbons, making them perfect for romantic nights.
C - Corset
Synonymous with curves, corsets help create an hourglass silhouette by cinching the waist and enhancing the bust. From bridal lingerie to fetish wear & from straight sizes to plus, corsets have remained a timeless favorite in lingerie fashion.
D - Demi Cup
A demi-cup bra offers just the right amount of lift while showcasing the top half of the bust. It's perfect for pairing with low-cut dresses and tops, adding a touch of elegance and allure.
E - Embroidery
Intricate embroidery can take lingerie to the next level, adding beautiful texture and visual interest. Whether on bras, panties, or bodysuits, this delicate detailing creates a luxurious look.
F - Fetish Lingerie
Fetish lingerie pushes boundaries with bold, provocative designs that cater to both daring fashion and desire. Plus-size fetish lingerie is no exception—these pieces are crafted to embrace every curve, offering styles like bondage-inspired bras, garter belts, and open-cup bodysuits that flatter and enhance.
G - G-String
Contrary to popular belief, this type of sexy panty is not the same as a thong. A G-string offers minimal coverage at the back, connecting the gusset to the waistband via just a string for a barely-there feel.
H - Halter Neck
This sexy neckline ties around the neck, leaving your shoulders bare. Perfect for both bras and lingerie sets, the halter style offers excellent support while giving off sultry, seductive vibes.
I - Illusion Mesh
Sexy and subtle, illusion mesh is a semi-sheer fabric used in many lingerie pieces to offer coverage while still teasing a glimpse of skin. It’s a favorite in both bras and bodysuits for adding mystery and allure.
J - Jeweled Details
Jewels, crystals, and delicate metallic accents elevate lingerie to luxury status. These embellishments add sparkle and glamour, perfect for special occasions like anniversaries or Valentine's Day.
K - Knee-High Stockings
Knee-high stockings bring a vintage, seductive flair to any lingerie ensemble. These sheer or opaque stockings typically stop just below the knee and are often paired with garters or worn on their own for a playful, retro-inspired look.
L - Lace
Timeless and always in vogue, lace lingerie is synonymous with elegance and femininity. From bras to bodysuits, lace adds a touch of softness and sophistication to any look.
M - Merrywidow
Like a corset, a merrywidow is a versatile garment that spans from the bust to the navel, often featuring a hook-and-eye closure at the back. It's designed to accentuate the curves and add a seductive touch, even for plus-sized ladies.
N - Nightdress
A sexy nightdress is a classic and elegant choice for sleepwear that effortlessly combines comfort with style. Whether silky, lace-trimmed, or sheer, nightdresses come in various lengths and fabrics to suit every mood—from cozy to seductive for both straight sizes and plus.
O - Open-Cup
For those daring enough, the open-cup lingerie leaves little to the imagination. This provocative style is perfect for adding some spice to your lingerie collection and is ideal for special occasions.
P - Plus-Size Lingerie
Plus-size lingerie is designed to embrace and celebrate every curve, offering a wide range of styles that make you feel confident, sexy, and empowered. From sultry babydolls to supportive bras and seductive teddies, plus-size lingerie is crafted to enhance and flatter your body.
Q - Quick-Release Lingerie
Quick-release lingerie adds an element of excitement and convenience with easy-to-remove features like snap buttons, zippers, or hook-and-eye closures. Perfect for a seductive reveal, these pieces are designed to come off with minimal effort, making them ideal for special, intimate moments.
R - Robes
Robes are the perfect blend of luxury and allure, adding a touch of elegance to any lingerie ensemble. Whether crafted from silky satin, delicate lace, or sheer mesh, they provide a glamorous layer that can be worn over your favorite lingerie or on their own for a seductive yet sophisticated look. A favorite of brides, robes can be found in both straight and plus sizes.
S - See-Through Lingerie
See-through lingerie is designed to tease and tantalize with sheer fabrics that offer just a glimpse of what’s underneath. Made from delicate lace, mesh, or chiffon, these pieces create a bold, seductive, size-inclusive look that exudes confidence.
T - Teddies
Teddies are a one-piece wonder that combines the allure of a bra and panty set with the seamless appeal of a bodysuit. Hugging your curves in all the right places, teddies can range from playful and cute to daring and seductive, often featuring lace, sheer panels, or strategic cutouts.
U - Unlined Bra
An unlined bra offers a natural, relaxed fit without any extra padding or molding, allowing your true shape to shine through. Made from soft fabrics like lace or mesh, unlined bras provide gentle support while keeping the look light, breathable, and effortlessly sexy.
V - Vinyl
Vinyl lingerie is all about bold, edgy style with a high-shine, wet-look finish that commands attention. Perfect for making a statement, these pieces are often found in fetish-inspired designs like bodysuits, dresses, and bras with daring cutouts. The slick texture of vinyl hugs your curves, creating a powerful, seductive silhouette no matter your size.
W - Wedding Lingerie
Wedding lingerie is all about elegance, romance, and feeling your most beautiful on your special day. Designed to be both stunning and supportive, these pieces often feature delicate lace, satin, or sheer fabrics that complement bridal gowns while adding a touch of sensuality underneath. Since brides come in all shapes and sizes, so does bridal lingerie.
X - X-Back
An X-back design features straps that crisscross elegantly over the back, adding both style and function to your lingerie. This unique strap design enhances visual interest while providing additional support, making it a popular choice for bralettes, bodysuits, and even sports bras.
Y - Yoke Front
This unique style features a strip of fabric that runs down the center of the chest, connecting the bust area to the waistband. It’s commonly seen in bodysuits or cut-out lingerie, offering an edgy, modern look.
Z - Zipper Accents
For those who love a little extra edge, zipper accents in lingerie add a fun and functional touch. They can be found on bras, panties, or bodysuits, giving you a customizable fit and a bold style.
Now that you can define lingerie and understand key terms, you’re ready to explore the world of intimate apparel with confidence. Whether you’re choosing a classic corset, a playful babydoll, or a sleek thong, knowing these lingerie definitions helps you find the perfect fit. Remember, lingerie is all about feeling sexy, confident, and comfortable in your own skin—so pick pieces that make you feel incredible! Happy shopping!
Editorial comment: This post was originally posted 4/20/2020 and was substantially updated 10/16/2024.
