Lingerie Terminology - December 30, 2009

Lingerie is a popular fashion trend that has been around for centuries, evolving and re-inventing overtime to create a massive array of different types of undergarments. There are hundreds of different types of lingerie to choose from, ranging from barely-there outfits to modest gowns and chemises. It can be difficult to figure out what lingerie you want when there are so many different types. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand lingerie terms and types.

Bustier – Corset like garment, but lighter in weight and without the heavy structure of a corset.  Bustiers are usually shorter than corsets, ending at the waist, and are often worn on the outside rather than strictly as an undergarment.

Camisole or Cami – A short sleeveless undergarment for women.  A short negligee sometimes worn as an outer garment (depending on the material) or under a suit jacket.

Charmeuse – A fine, semi-lustrous, satin-like, silky, soft material.

Chemise – A loose-fitting dress type garment without a waist line that hangs from the shoulders, typically with a short hemline.

Corset – A close fitting undergarment often tightened with laces.  Most corsets extend from the breasts to the hips, and are constructed to enhance the figure by cinching the waist, thereby enhancing the bust and hips.  Most corsets are fitted with four or more adjustable garter straps to support the stockings of your choice.

Cuban Heel – A rectangular designed reinforced heel, usually with a reinforced foot and back seam.

Fence Net – A very large net design similar to that of a chain link fence and used for stockings.

Fishnet – A smaller net design, which is taken from the construction of a fisherman’s net, usually made of nylon or nylon-lycra blends.

G-String – A panty with a very thin (string like) band of fabric in the back.

Garters – The clips that attach to the top welt of the stockings are called garters.  Generally they are attached to an adjustable elastic strap, which is in turn attached to the garment worn on the waist or body, these are called garter straps.

Why Is Lingerie So Enticing? - December 16, 2009

There are so many different variations of Lingerie. What one person my consider sexy for lingerie, is another persons daily wear! Let’s take the Corset for example. The original design of the Corset was to bind the body to cinch the center of the torso and move it to the hip area and breast area.  This style of wear started back in the 16th century-Victorian age . The smaller the waist the better! The use of pulling the strings thru eyelets to make the hour glass shape- This was called “Tight Lacing”- this was practiced by mostly women, so men also were known to wear one. The narrow binding of the waist to achieve an exaggerated hourglass shape was most popular in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. This process was very painful and many times people would pass out due to the limited movement allowed for lack of air the body was able to intake. There were even deaths reported from this practice. This is the basic beginning of the Corset. What we do to make our selves appear sexier for other people to enjoy! How does this translate into modern times?

In the 20th century, women started to wear Lingerie for the World to see. What was some of the first starting trends- How about Moulin Rouge, Can Can Dancers, and Theatric Entertainment? This was the beginning! Thank goodness someone was thinking outside the box.  Look how many fashion trends started based on the Corset Lingerie.

What about the Victorian Style Wedding Dress, most popular in the late 80’s and early 90’s… corset inspired. Madonna’s Tour back in the 80’s …Like a Virgin album- The cover of this album she is wearing a corset style dress. Goth uses the Corset inspired for many items from PVC Corset, jackets, shirts that have a corset style with the tying of strings. If you really look at today’s style of clothing, shaping of everyday Tank Top to Sun Dresses, Evening clothes are all inspired from the same era …Accenting the waist or torso. Love the Corset… you can even order a Cakes shaped as one. Purses and backpacks are design as Corset! What ever you can imagine… I am sure you can find it!!

Sheer Lingerie for Sexy Nights! - December 15, 2009

If your love life has gotten a little mundane and drab, why not spice it up with some new sheer lingerie? Sexy lingerie can add a little spark and interest into what has become ordinary. Let your humorous self come through with fantasy styles of trashy lingerie, where you can choose to wear clothing that shows a totally different side of you.

Full-figured women will not be disappointed with the wide selection of sheer lingerie available that is designed to flatter buxom women. Plus size lingerie comes in every popular style, so you and your partner will find all of the camisoles, teddies, peignoirs, negligees, tap pants and mini dresses styled to set off your bends and curves. Use sexy lingerie to heat up your romantic side!

You can find a wide variety of styles of revealing lingerie so that you never have to wear the same style twice. One night it could be a baby doll night gown or chemise, the next it could be a corset. Camisoles are a popular choice, as are flamboyant trashy lingerie such as peek-a-boo bras and bustiers, which can be worn any night of the week. Weekends call for something special. You might select sexy lingerie like body stockings to accentuate your entire figure.

Trashy lingerie is not just reserved for the bedroom. Some revealing lingerie styles can be worn out to dance clubs. You can dance the night away in a halter top short dress or a mini skirt that might be classified as lingerie yet can also double as club wear. Accentuate those short hemlines with thigh-high hosiery and high heels to set the look off to best effect.

One classic style of sheer lingerie is the teddy. Teddies come in a wide variety of styles, such as deep V-neck or halter styles, and are decorated in a plethora of ways, including floral embroidery, rings, lace, satin and keyholes. For the adventurous, open bust teddies are available. Some teddies can be worn on their own, or you could wear them under a jacket or blouse for a sexy glimpse of lace under your clothing.

Lingerie’s Coming Out Party - November 5, 2009

Undergarments have gone over the top. The latest trend in lingerie is to pair favorite pieces with a ready-to-wear garment, allowing women to show off certain types of lingerie that they couldn’t-or wouldn’t-show in the past.

You probably don’t need to be a fashion historian to know that this trend marks a change in fashion rules dating back for decades. Yet stylists say it’s an idea whose time has come-and one that’s truly taking off.

For instance, Spiegel Brands Inc. recently launched Cami Intimate®-a line that features five collections of sexy, stylish lingerie that’s just “too pretty to hide.” Each collection is paired with a coordinating sweater or cardigan that allows the lingerie to tastefully “peek out.” Here’s a closer look:

• The Flirty Collection features chic, ultimately comfortable, seamless mesh lingerie embellished with gorgeous floral embroidery. All pieces are designed with nylon and spandex to provide comfort and a perfect fit.

• The Chic Collection includes seamless bras, panties and camisoles that are designed like a second skin to eliminate panty lines or lingerie seams. A special process constructs each piece to create a smooth look under lightweight, body-conscious fabrics and knits. These sleek, sophisticated styles provide comfortable support.

• The Sexy Collection consists of exquisitely detailed mesh lingerie with overlays of scalloped lace. Each piece is made from soft, seamless nylon, with rayon for shimmer and spandex for a great fit and comfort.

• The Beautiful Collection features classically beautiful lingerie embellished with extravagantly scalloped stretch lace trim. All pieces are designed from soft, seamless nylon with spandex for fit and comfort.

• The Glamorous Collection consists of beautifully embroidered satin lingerie in soft, expressive colors for a vintage appeal. Each piece is constructed from smooth nylon with Lycra for a better fit and control.