What is lingerie?

Lingerie is a term for fashionable and alluring women's undergarments. The word has its origin from Latin lineus and then the Old French word linge, which means linen and flax.

European undergarments were made of linen before the general introduction of cotton from Egypt and then from India.

In French the term applies to all undergarments for either gender, in English it’s used as women's underwear and nightwear designed mostly to be visually appealing.

Fabrics of which the lingerie is made are usually lace, microfiber, tulle, satin, silk, rayon, polyester, nylon, lycra and cotton. However cotton undergarments are mainly practical.

Fact is, you feel sexier wearing sensual lingerie.

Fact is, French ruled the art of lingerie and European women take their undergarments very seriously.

Lingerie is any type of woman’s undergarment from plain underwear and cotton nightgowns, to elaborately seductive lace bras, panties, and babydolls. Many synonyms may be used, including intimate apparel, intimates, undies, sleepwear, delicates, undergarments, sleepwear, underclothing, unmentionables and more. Depending on the specific type of lingerie there is variety of styles, colors and construction.

Sexy and properly fitted undies are miracles for your self-esteem. As you look much better in your clothes this can only boost your confidence.

Madame Simone Pérèle, corset maker in 50th who created well known French brand by combining high fashion with comfort, well-being and tastefulness said decades ago “Women should not have to choose between comfort and elegance”. At Bust N Lace we fully agree with this opinion.

Lingerie History

Nowadays lingerie and underwear is elegant, stylish and beautiful, but first and foremost supportive, comfortable and accentuate the curvy feminine shape. 

It hasn’t always been that way. 

Throughout the years, the ideal female figure has changed radically, and so have the garments.

The key elements that influenced the development of the lingerie are the waistlines, busts and butts. However they have not always been emphasized. 

Let’s take a tour of lingerie over the time... 

Take a look at our Story of The Bra and Moments in Bra History