10 lingerie items we love
What could possibly be sexier than slipping into seductive intimate underwear? Beautiful lingerie is the quickest, easiest way to feel your sexy, sultry best. But every woman, no matter her shape or size, is likely to feel an attack of confidence when undressed down to utilitarian undergarments.
CanadianLiving.com: What is the one must-have piece of lingerie that every woman should have in her wardrobe?
John Izzo: A padded, convertible push up bra in a flesh tone. This is the perfect go anywhere bra. It can be worn strapless and does not slip or fall due to silicone bands. It can be worn in a multitude of ways because of the removable straps and can accommodate any garment. It has removable cookies [push-up pads] that can boost cleavage for a dramatic look or worn without for a more natural, softer silhouette. The nude colour makes it invisible under even the sheerest garment including white. It blends well with most skin tones for an invisible look even under light colours. Its smooth, round cups create a perfectly round silhouette even under form fitting garments.
CL.com: What mistakes do women often make when shopping for lingerie – and how can they avoid them?
JI: Avoid buying the wrong size and avoid squeezing into something that just fits too small. Avoid buying sexy lingerie that you do not feel good about wearing. A woman can only be sexy if she feels good about herself and the way she looks.
CL.com: How do you make sure you've got the right bra fit? Can you provide some pointers?
JI: A bra should be comfortable when worn. If it isn't, you are probably wearing the wrong size:
• It should not gape in front and the bust should not overflow from the neckline.
• Bra straps should be adjusted so they do not fall off the shoulder and should not support more than 10% of the bust weight. If straps are too tight, not only will they be uncomfortable but will also cause the back band to ride up. They should allow freedom of movement with out any slippage.
• The back band should be level with the lowest point of your underwire across the body, and should not rise up. If the band is rising at centre back, this may mean that the shoulder straps are adjusted too tight. The back band is responsible for 90% of the support. It should be comfortable and offer support when adjusted at the centre of the hook and eye closure.
CL.com: What fabrics would you say are the sexiest?
JI: Some women love how soft and cool satin or silk feels against their skin. Others prefer lace or chiffon or even mesh because of their transparence. Fabrics with high contents of elasthane tend to mold to the body, clinging to every curve and that can be sexy as well as comfortable.
CL.com: Can you provide some advice for caring for your lingerie?
JI: Hand washing in cold water is best as hot water can damage the delicate fibres and fade colours. If you prefer to machine wash, always fasten clasps and use a wash bag to avoid straps twisting and to avoid snags. Always use a mild detergent and preferably a detergent made especially for fine washables. Lay bras flat to dry to avoid deforming cups.
CL.com: What colours of lingerie are the sexiest? We tend to think of black and red but how can a woman choose the colour that's right for her?
JI: There are no right or wrong colours when it comes to sexy lingerie. It depends on personal taste and personal preference. Classic colours in sexy lingerie are black, white and red, but these days, there are so many other options such as bright pinks and corals to soft and delicate pastels. Animal prints are also very sexy in either leopard spots or zebra stripes.
CL.com: Can you provide some tips on finding lingerie that's not only sexy but comfortable too? What things should you consider before you buy?
JI: Comfort is very important in order to feel sexy. A woman who is wearing lingerie that is either too small or too restrictive will not feel comfortable and will therefore not feel sexy. It's always best to buy lingerie that fits well and to choose stretch fabrics with elasthane, that move with you and that adjust to the shape of your body. It's also important to wear the right bra and panties for the right silhouette.
CL.com: What pieces do you recommend for a woman who may be self conscious about her body but still wants to look and feel sexy?
JI: Baby doll styles are great lingerie pieces for women who are self conscious about their silhouettes but still want to look sexy. They will show off a great pair of legs and bring attention to the bust. Baby dolls are usually loose fitting around the waist and therefore are flattering to most figure types. A long flowing gown with a daring slit can also be dramatic and sexy without revealing too much skin. La Vie en Rose has a wide variety of kimonos, robes and cover ups in lace, chiffon, silk and satin which coordinate with most of the sexy lingerie styles.
6 no-fail tips when shopping for lingerie:
• Get fitted for your proper size by a professional fitter.
• Be in the mood to choose and try on sexy lingerie.
• Understand your body type and buy lingerie that flatters you.
• Ask for help from sales staff and be open to trying on styles that she may recommend.
• Buy lingerie that makes you feel good about yourself.
• Choose fabrics that feel good against your skin.
Natalie Bahadur is the Senior Editor of styleathome.com and is a regular contributor to CanadianLiving.com.
