Lingerie Essentials Checklist: 12 Pieces Every Woman's Drawer Needs

A great lingerie drawer isn't about having fifty bras. It's about having the right twelve pieces, so there's always something perfect under a backless dress, a white tee, a deep V or nothing at all.

Tick what you already own in this lingerie essentials checklist, then tap the button to see exactly which pieces are missing from your drawer. Your ticks save automatically.

Why these 12 lingerie essentials?

Every piece on this list solves a real outfit problem. The T-shirt bra disappears under fitted tops. The strapless saves your off-shoulder dress. The plunge stays hidden under a deep V. The slip shorts stop thighs rubbing on a hot day. And the lace set? It solves the problem of forgetting how gorgeous you are.

Together they cover work, weekends, workouts, date nights and lazy Sundays, without a drawer full of things you never wear.

"Nude" means your skin tone

The most useful bra you'll ever own is one that matches your skin. A "nude" that's lighter or darker than you can actually show through a white shirt more than black does. Many brands now offer a wide range of skin-tone shades, so look for the one closest to the skin on your chest. Not sure which tone family you're in? Take the undertone quiz.

How many of each do you need?

• Everyday bras: at least three in rotation, so each one gets a day off to let its elastic recover.
• Special-occasion bras: one of each is usually enough.
• Underwear: enough for a week and a half, so laundry day never becomes an emergency.

Fit comes first

An essential that doesn't fit isn't essential. Before you buy, check your real size with the bra size calculator, then confirm it in the mirror with the 7-point bra fit checklist. Different styles fit differently too, so if you're unsure which ones suit your shape, take the lingerie style quiz.

Make your lingerie last

Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent, never put underwired bras in the dryer and store bras flat or with cups nested, not folded in half. These small habits keep elastic and lace beautiful for much longer. Read the full lingerie care guide.

The piece you buy just for you

Number seven on the list, the lace set that makes you feel amazing, is the one people skip. Please don't. Wearing something beautiful under your everyday clothes changes how you walk, sit and feel all day. We wrote all about it in lingerie as self-love. For more on choosing styles, read 6 lingerie styles every woman should know.

Lingerie essentials FAQ

What is the most important bra to own?

A smooth T-shirt bra in your skin tone. It works under almost everything.

How often should I replace my bras?

Bras worn often usually lose their support within about six months to a year. If you're on the tightest hook and the band still rides up, it's time.

Do I really need a strapless bra?

If you wear off-shoulder, halter or strapless tops, yes. A good strapless with a silicone grip band will stay put all night.