Whether you are petite or curvaceous, this guide will take you through the steps of buying lingerie with form, functionality, and fun!

1. Decide on Its Purpose 
Your lingerie should compliment your clothes. At work, one needs function and fit, as well as support—those days can get long, and you do not need to be pulling or tugging at a fallen strap or worrying about a panty line. At play, you need something that’s easy to move and that supports you. Flirty clothing, such as plunging necklines or strapless dresses, require specific styles to make sure that all eyes are on you, and not your underpinnings.

2. Browse Before You Buy
With the Web at your fingertips, browsing has never been easier. Check out Lasenza.com -- this site covers everything from comfortable and classic to sexy and luxurious. Do you prefer underwire, padding, cotton or a combination? You can shop online or get ideas to take with you when you hit the stores.

3. Learn the Lingo
If your idea of shopping for underwear is grabbing a plastic-wrapped package of 3 pairs on your way to get detergent, you need to brush up on the language of the industry. Here are some standard terms you will encounter:

  • Low-rise: As the waistlines in jeans and pants have gotten progressively lower, panties have had to adapt. Showing your panties above your waistband is so 2003.
  • Boy Cut: Sometimes referred to as Brazilian. This style of panty sits low on the hips and is similar to hip-hugger shorts, but is cut slightly higher on the hips and in the back.
  • Thong: Available in low rise or a higher rise, these panties have very minimal coverage in the derriere. These are the ultimate choice for the “no-panty-line-look”. First-time thong buyer? Try one under jeans and you will be amazed at how good your profile looks! The Shopping Bags review Thongs
  • G-String: Most commonly with a thong-type back, these panties ride incredibly low in the front and sit almost where your leg meets your torso. The sides of the panty are usually very thin pieces of fabric or ribbon.
  • Filled/Padded Bras: Companies are now expanding the variety of options here, to include air, water, fabric, and “cookies” (small pieces of material molded into removable inserts).


4. Size Does Matter

Know that certain types of fabrics will fit differently (cotton, lycra, lace) so you might need to adapt your size to find the perfect fit. Panties usually come in standard sizes (small, med, large, etc.) and most stores will let you try on panties over top of the ones you are wearing. When it comes to bra sizing, most stores will suggest being properly fitted. If you do not want to subject yourself to these very intimate measurements, measure yourself at home and use our bra size calculator to determine your size.

5. Fit Is It
A back-enclosure bra should do up at the middle clasp. This allows for fluctuation in body shape throughout the month. Some bras offer thinner or wider bands across the back. The same holds true for straps. Many bras are now so versatile that the straps can be moved five different ways. Keep in mind that just because it might does not mean that you will get the best fit and support once your regular bra loses its straps. If you do not see your size in the store, simply ask the sales clerk.

6. Take Your Time
Do not shop when you are rushed. There will be disrobing involved, so wear clothes that allow for easy dressing/undressing. Put on some lipstick - the lighting in many fitting rooms makes you look pale once you are in a colourful bra and panty set. When trying on a bra and panty set, take off your shoes and socks; you will look more natural. Bring one thing into the dressing room that you would have never thought to purchase—like a thong, or a bra with a different closure than you are used to. You will never know unless you try.