The pre-Valentine’s Day lingerie post is one my favorites. Last year, we talked about how to choose the lingerie that’s right for you, from comfort level to cost. So refer to that post if you’re new to the lingerie game. For everyone else, let’s go shopping.
Back in Black. Why do so many men prefer black lingerie? It’s one of life’s great mysteries. But regardless, black is a classic.
For something unique, I am so in love with this high-neck black lace bra from VS. A little conservative perhaps, but certainly something different. More traditional? This Betsey Johnson balconette lace bra is a nice choice.
Want something totally impractical? This very racy, tie front bra from Coco de Mer is really something to behold. If comfort is your concern, try this $16 black halter bralette. And if you wear plus-size, this Playful Promises harness bra is a lot of fun.
Lace It Up. If you like lingerie and want something special, I cannot recommend a good corset highly enough. Agent Provocateur is the A+, Number One brand around, but it’s very spendy. Instead, try Maidenform for something under-$100. Plus-size? Lane Bryant has you covered.
Chill Out. If g-strings and underwires just aren’t for you, there are still plenty of options. Try a jersey chemise with lace accents. It’s comfortable and pretty. I adore this cute cami set. They also have a bralette with a flutter sleeve. There’s no reason lingerie can’t be easy to wear.
Full Body. Want something in between bone corset and jersey camisole? Then, I suggest a bodysuit. It’s light on structure, big on sex appeal.
This Journelle teddy with a ribbon tie neck is one of the most beautiful pieces of lingerie I have ever seen. VS has a wide selection of bodysuits, including this mesh plunge neck. For something under-$25, this Forever21 option looks like a great choice.
Just remember that a full body option may not be for you if the size differential from your top to your bottom is more than a single size. Also, a lot of less expensive corsets and teddies run small, so buy in person whenever possible.
Save Don’t Spend. I wear my lingerie frequently. If you won’t, don’t break the bank. H&M, ASOS, and Forever21 all have tons options this time of year. Shop early for the best selection (which would be now).
For affordable favorites, I am obsessed with the details on this Georgie lace teddy. This baby pink racerback bra is pretty cute. And I am loving this high neck eyelash bra from F21.
Take It All Off. So you’ve done the lingerie thing a few times and you want real WOW-factor for this holiday eve. Surprise your partner with something different. These sequin heart pasties could be fun. A garter belt and some thigh-highs are always classic. Or go a little crazy with a lace eye mask.
The key is to go just far enough out of your comfort zone that it’s extra seductive, but not so far that you make it weird. One of my girlfriends ran out of racy options after 18 years of Valentine’s Days, so she decided to wear no underwear and text her husband halfway through dessert to let him know. So when in doubt, go with less.
My Top Five. Before we depart, let me share my top five picks for Valentine’s Day 2018, gleaned from far too many hours window shopping for lingerie. I’d post photos of them, but I know a lot of you read at work, so text only.
One. Thistle & Spire Sterling Bustier ($72) — because white is the most overlooked lingerie color.
Two. Journelle Gia Bralett ($44) — because that sheer high neck is too edgy for words.
Three. F21 Satin Bustier ($22) — because Old Hollywood glam is always in style.
Four. Simon Perele Wish Corset ($240) — because it’s a work of art.
Five. VS Satin and Lace Romper ($62) — because sometimes you just want to feel pretty.
Final Thoughts. Some women wear lingerie for their partners, I advocate wearing it for yourself. Choose what you like, what you feel comfortable in (physically/emotionally), and remember that there’s a certain power in feeling sexy.
Everyone has different taste. For some, it’s satin babydolls. For others, it’s leather boots and a riding crop. Choose what works for you. Because if we can’t feel beautiful, powerful, and authentic in our own boudoirs, then where can we?
Disagree re corsets. For the best beginner corseting options get in touch with orchard corsets. They offer a wide variety and will discuss which options best meet your body shape and size (including plus sizes), proper wearing, etc. They follow up with you after you receive your corset to make sure that you are getting into it properly, etc. Most corsets are less than $100 and are built to last.
I’ve had great experiences with Timeless Trends corsets. I’ve only tried their underbust options but would recommend them from a quality perspective and from how helpful their team is.
Love all your ideas and most of all your final thoughts. Great follow-up piece to last year!
Belle,
Probably not the right place for it, but could you please do a post on good everyday bras? I’m really struggling. I can’t even think about cute lingerie when my last good bras are on their last leg. I kept Victoria’s Secret for many, many years until the quality (and the terrible style, selection) killed it for me. I’ve tried Soma, but they don’t carry my size (32D and yes they are real, also real saggy but I digress!). Chantelle has been my go-to but they have discontinued some of their great styles and gone cheaper with the replacements. Help!!
I would try looking into the british brands like bravissimo, etc. My latest addiction has been Pour Moi. They tend to have wider size ranges, and the quality tend to be MUCH better. Soma’s my “in a pinch” brand… but the quality is frequently lacking. Nearly every purchase I’ve made with them hasn’t lasted a year.
I am also a 32D and Natori is my go to brand for everyday bras. I find that they run true to size and the quality is great. I love several of this brands styles.
There was a post on everyday underwear just last week. You should check it out!
Third Love tshirt bra. I pretty much wear these exclusively for my “normal” bras and I’m a 32DD (Belle’s also posted about them before). Their other options are great too, but the tshirt bra is my favorite.
Head to Nordstrom! They’ll size you and get you in the right brand!
34F (also real and also not completely perky) here and Panache’s Tango II, via Amazon, has been my go-to for everyday for years
If you’re on a budget or want the convenience of free shipping and returns, try Aerie. I’m between a 32D and a 30DD and I’ve found some pretty comfy everyday bras there.
Oh I know your pain. I’m a 30F and it makes shopping so difficult. For every day I love the Panache Elam bras. I even wear the staples version, which I didn’t think would ever be an option in my size. Panache also makes some fancier, lacier things. I’ve also had some good luck with Parfait. They can be a little pricey, but they hold up well. I also stalk Bare Necessities for sales and am on the email list for every lingerie store from DC to Baltimore so I can pounce on deals. Good luck!
where is the bright pink set in the pic from?
It was from Journelle, last year. They may have it again this year.
[…] 7. Feeling Sexy One of our favorite bloggers, Abra from The Work Edit, shares her annual pre-Valentine’s Day lingerie post. Excellent for tips and inspiration. -M (The Work Edit) […]