6 Lingerie Styles Every Woman Should Know

Balconette or plunge? Teddy or babydoll? Lingerie has its own vocabulary, and knowing it makes shopping so much easier — and a lot more fun. Here are six essential styles, what they're best for and how to wear them.

1. The bralette

What it is: a soft, unstructured bra, usually without underwire or padding, often made of lace or stretch fabric.

Best for: comfort, lounging and smaller to medium busts (though supportive bralettes for larger cups exist).

Style tip: let a lace bralette peek out from under a blazer or a low-back top for a subtle, sexy detail.

2. The balconette

What it is: a bra with horizontal-cut cups and wide-set straps that lift the bust upward, creating a rounded, "balcony" shape.

Best for: square, sweetheart and wide necklines. Works on many bust sizes.

Style tip: perfect under strapless-looking or off-the-shoulder tops when the straps are removable.

3. The plunge

What it is: a bra with a deep V center and angled cups, designed to create cleavage and sit low at the center.

Best for: V-necks and low-cut dresses.

Style tip: choose a shade close to your skin tone for invisible support under thin fabrics.

4. The bodysuit and teddy

What it is: a one-piece garment combining top and bottom. A teddy is typically softer and looser; a bodysuit is more fitted and structured.

Best for: a streamlined, glamorous look — and many lace bodysuits double as tops.

Style tip: wear a lace bodysuit with high-waisted trousers or a skirt and a blazer for a night out.

5. The babydoll

What it is: a short, loose-fitting nightie, usually with a fitted bust and a flowy skirt that ends at the upper thigh.

Best for: romantic, flirty feelings with a little more coverage around the tummy and hips.

Style tip: sheer chiffon or satin babydolls feel especially luxe with matching briefs.

6. The chemise and slip

What it is: a simple, sleek nightgown or slip, often in silk or satin, that skims the body. It can range from mini to full-length.

Best for: effortless elegance and sleeping in something beautiful.

Style tip: a satin slip can double as a dress — layer it with a chunky knit or a blazer.

Bonus terms worth knowing

• Bustier and corset: structured tops that shape the waist; corsets typically offer more cinching.
• Garter belt: a belt worn at the waist with straps to hold up stockings.
• Longline bra: a bra with an extended band that reaches toward the waist.
• Kimono or robe: the perfect finishing layer for any set.

Start your collection

• A lace bralette
• A balconette or plunge bra in your size
• A lace bodysuit
• A satin chemise or slip
• A silky robe

Now that you speak the language, you can shop with confidence — and choose pieces that feel like you.