Buying perfect lingerie

What’s the most important thing when buying knickers?

Whether it’s to complete a special outfit, enhance a naughty night in, or just for everyday wear, the key to the perfect lingerie purchase is making sure it fits.

The knack with knickers is buying the right size for you. Be honest, and generous, when buying your panties.

What’s the most important thing when buying a bra?

According to underwear guru Anne Musk from figleaves.com, women can be just as ill-advised when they deal with their chests. “It’s believed that over 70 per cent of women wear the wrong size bra,” she says. “It is very important to wear the size that fits you correctly rather than wearing the size you want to be.” And it can be more serious than a nasty red elastic mark, according to Anne, “A badly fitting bra can cause bulges because the breast is not supported, and bad posture which will increase sagging of the breast.”

If you’re struggling with your body image, you might like to read Megan Crabbe’s body positivity story.

How to get a perfectly fitted bra

You’ll need two measurements: the bra back size – measure directly under your bust for the number 32, 34, 36 etc; and the cup size – measure the fullest part of your bust for the letter A, B, C, D, DD etc Find a chart online to use as a guide, or ask a person in a department store to measure you, but you’ll need to test out your bra yourself.

Anne says, “Often traditional bra measuring doesn’t work well as we are all so different. Try the bra on and spend a few minutes assessing the fit.” Some of the problems you might encounter are:

• You’re bulging out the top or sides. If your curves are a bit lumpy under your lycra, the cup size is probably too small.
• If you’re experiencing wrinkles where they shouldn’t be i.e. the bra cup is creasing, it’s too big. The bra should fit smoothly over your boobs.
• If it rides up your back it’s too big around your body, go down a bra back size. The strap should fit snugly around your rib cage.

What type of lingerie should I buy?

Everyone’s idea of ‘sexy’ is different, so go for something flattering that you’re comfortable with. You look most sexy if you feel good. There’s nothing worse than pouting seductively whilst constantly trying to free a bit of lace from between your bum cheeks. Read a few self-love tips and embrace your beautiful body in a way that works for you.

Kit yourself out with a range of colours and styles for different occasions. If you can afford it, try to get your undie drawer as varied as the wardrobe of clothes to go on top of it. And if you can’t afford it, one or two bits for special occasions is more than enough anyway.

Got any lingerie tips you’d like to share? Head over to our discussion boards. Check out the rest of The Mix’s your body resources here.

Picture of girl holding her bra by Shutterstock.