Building a Sexy and Sensible Lingerie Wardrobe

Last night a friend asked me if I had watched the Victoria Secret fashion show. This was asked with much enthusiasm and eagerness. By the way, it was my male friend not a girlfriend. But you knew that right?

It got me thinking how much do we ladies really give importance to our lingerie? We think about shoes, handbags and jewelry as our accessories, but do we give much thought to our trousseau?

I have always made it a point twice a year to clean out my lingerie drawer and make room for pretty new items and sensible fashionable items. I am however surprised to find out that not every woman takes the time to do this.

I sat down with fine lingerie expert Margaret Shrum to have a much needed conversation about every woman’s trousseau needs. She gave me a few great tips on how to build a sexy and sensible lingerie wardrobe.

Margaret suggest that every woman’s lingerie drawer must include:

1. At least 1 Nude and 1 Black t-shirt bra for underneath clingy tops.  

2. a selection of seamless panties (could be in your favorite silhouettes; thong, hipster, bikini, boyshort or brief).

3. a strapless bra ( go down one size in band and up one size in the cup- for example if you normally wear a 36C, try a strapless in a 34D).

4. an assortment of shape-wear (a tummy shaper, a thigh smoother, a slip).

5. a sexy black lace bra with matching panties, garter belt sheer black stockings)

6. an elegant chemise to sleep in or wear underneath as a slip.

7. a simple silk or cotton robe.

8. a supportive sports bra.

9. a couple colorful bra panty sets that are fun and playful.

10. a selection of fun tights, hose, leggings and socks.

Margaret and I both agree that the biggest mistake women make is wearing the wrong size! Margaret gives us some wise advice. 

She explains “Learning how to fit oneself properly is all about understanding how a bra should fit vs. trying to squeeze into the size you want to be. Most lingerie shops will professionally fit you, but be willing to try on an assortment of styles and sizes and don’t worry if you wear more than one size. It varies based on where it was manufactured.”

Finally, what are the new trends for lingerie in 2013? There is something for everyone. 

The romantic woman will love big revival of French influence, powdery colors, details, decadence. The sexy seductress will be happy to see “lingerie that conveys dark romanticism and fantasy.”

The best part is that technology continues to be an important part of design. This means beautiful designs that are comfortable and well constructed. Margaret explains these designs are “playful styles that are whimsical, colorful and dreamy.”

Who doesn’t want to be part of all this magical lingerie fashion world? 

Now you have a few more items to add to Christmas wish list. Oh yes, and for Latinas, don’t forget about the good luck yellow set you need to ring in the new year!