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Intimate Picks for You

Need some cute lingerie? Want to get in on the sales for a special occasion, or just a seasonal stock-up? You've come to the right place! I've been having a look at the sales and have narrowed things down. . . here are some items that you simply must shop for, if you want to have a solid collection of basics in that drawer.

(Silence and Noise Apparel Slips, T Alexander Wang Tanks, Glam Vintage Soul Slip)

Smooth Cup Bras

Sometimes, I think all bras should be smooth cup, simply because they are so versatile and budget-friendly. You can wear them under microfiber dresses, tanks, and other blouses, and no one will be the wiser about your lingerie choice (unlike some lace-covered tops that always remain nubbly and chunky-looking). Watch the straps and get one that's skinny and one that's a little bit thicker for a successful all-around effect.

The Best Strapless

Since I've bought a lot of expensive lingerie, I'm going to reveal the only strapless bra that ever stayed up on a regular basis: one from Lipo in a Box. There's a special band inside the bra that wraps around the body that keeps the bra on, and it has some really sticky, gummy silicone edging on top and bottom to keep things secure. I had another bra with silicone details, but it simply wasn't the same. Check this one out.

Layering Tanks

Are you the kind of girl who simply can't let go of her camis? I'm familiar with the feeling! If you love stocking up on underwear and the like, you might want to zip by Old Navy and pick out some clingy tank tops that hug the body really well. You can pair them with capris when you're just stepping out, toss them on under vests and dresses, and wear them with jeans on the weekend. Don't we all love versatile pieces with a twist? Get one in neutral!

Lace Thongs and Panties

Stretch underwear with a tad bit of Spandex and Lycra is a great choice for anyone who needs to toss on a great layer underneath their clothes instead of testing out the commando waters due to lines and the like. Even if you think that lace thongs are really uncomfortable, you might be sold after you try on something like a pair of flirty rumba or boyshorts!

Slips

Who wears slips anymore? I do! When you run around in your budget finds, you run the risk of see-through items. I have one black slip I've held on to ages, and it's saved quite a few ensembles of mine. Cotton dresses for summer work well with slips, as do clingier cotton-Lycra versions. Slip into one of these options and see just how great it is.

Welcome to Victoria's Secret Sales

Victoria's Secret is a font of sales and discounts, and you'll see that they've discounted tons of things for us to choose. Beautiful swimsuits and lots of little beauty items blend together on their sales and clearance page for the picking. Have a blast getting what you love just in time for summer break: here's what I love.

Gold Ring Monokini

Monokinis

Victoria's Secret's monokinis are good because they are well-constructed, easy on the eyes, and creative. No need for those cheesy macrame panels in the front now--these monokinis are available in vibrant colors, and in the nicest designs you'll find out there. Look for dusty colors in blue and lavender, for example, instead of basic black.

Little Beauty Goodies

Victoria's Secret has a lot of different fragrances on sale right now, so check it out if you are interested! You'll probably be surprised at the different types available, as well as the different gift boxes of mini-fragrances that will work well as gifts. . . for yourself! If you aren't familiar with the different V.S. scents, buying a box of the minis will help you decide which smell you enjoy most.

Halter Bra Top Maxi

Summer Dresses

Jersey dresses are a great selection for your summertime dress-up needs. Grab a dress with an easy sleeveless shape that you can wrap a little shrug or shawl on for easy style. These pretty summer frocks often have creative styles and designs, including some pretty cute colors that could work for all seasons.

Cool Flats

Victoria's Secret is not known for the shoes, but I've had some great luck with their flats and sandals. Their coolest designs are girly, not overly decorative or flouncy, and in basic colors for work. They are really affordable, which is a great plus when you're a budget-savvy gal with only a little spending power.

Sequin Sliding Triangle Top

Teeny Beach Bikinis

String bikinis for $20 or less (for the top and bottom)? Where do I sign up? Victoria's secret has the cute and sassy designs along with the items for more mature or classic beach ladies. String bikinis definitely take up less room when you want to go on vacation, so pack light when you are in the mood for a beach getaway.

Summer Tees

T-shirts are another strong suit for Victoria's Secret, including the fancier ones with comfortable sleeves and hems. Play around with tied sleeves and hemlines, crocheted additions, and little bits and pieces in tunic shapes. You can get tees for around $10, and they also have "two for" deals.

Sexy Summer Lingerie and Swimwear

We haven't featured gorgeous lingerie in quite some time, and I've been hunting out some of the best styles to show off! For summer, your best bet is to go with the lightweight lace confections or the softer satins, because they'll be fun to wear and very easy to pull off. Be sure to grab a pair of ribbon-festoonedboyshorts if you're feeling saucy!

Pieces That Are a Must-Buy

String Bikinis on Discount

Victoria's Secret is one of the best places to find a good sale, and this year if no exception. Their swimwear starts at around $10 in clearance per piece, so you can get a quality bikini for around $20 if you'd like. Have a look on their website in their mega-sale, and see if something "suits" you. The clearance rack is seriously packed right now, so you'll probably be pleased!

Sweet Boyshorts

Boyshorts can be hard to pull off in the summer, but then again, with all those gusty days and seaside strolling, it's the best time to wear something with a little more coverage. Look for lace and mesh instead of heavyweight cotton and Spandex, which you'll probably find more comfortable and less stifling.

Convertible Bras

Tank tops and tube tops comprise a good deal of our wardrobes, but quite often, we simply can't seem to locate the right undergarment to make the look work. Find a bra that had detachable straps and a supportive lower band to fight the slip-downs, and try to find one in both the colors nude and black. If those aren't available, pink or brown, depending on your skin tone, could work.

Exciting Slips

Toss on a great little something (possibly with some hidden shaping powers?) to enjoy your little summer dresses a little bit more. Don't forget to try the "sheer check" when you are wearing your wonderful concoctions, because it's all too often that our favorite frocks turn out tp be more daring than planned! When in doubt, choose a dress with a busier pattern or a darker color to hide see-through issues.

Summer Shapewear

Stock up! If you are a daring shopper who'd looking for brief hot-weather looks, embrace the coolest styles like slim-strapped slips in stretchy power fabric or those greatwaspies that only deal with your waist, but don't leave you sweating it out all over. If you are from the UK, you might want to try Gok Wan's collection from Simply Be, one of my favorites.

Novelty Items

A little animal print never hurt anyone, did it? It's your turn to shine when you grab a patterned look, so shop away for the more daring looks if you'd like.

When Lingerie Goes Wrong: Quick Fixes

Lingerie struggles are the worst! Here are some "quick fixes" for a variety of underwear problems out there.

Push-Up Bras

Problem: Your push-up bra doesn't stay were it should, so you are not getting the right effect. Perhaps the strap slip down so that you are not getting any "oomph," or the cups just don't have that extra touch of anti-gravity. Here's how to fix your problem!

(Gilligan and O'Malley Bra In Pink)

Solution: Hunt down bra inserts to keep your bust boosted high in either gel (my recommended ones of choice) or covered foam. You can buy them pretty small and them grade up, so I recommend you pick up an "average" sized one right away and experiment from there. If the straps are bothering you, try a simple clip that converts your bra to a racer back: it pulls your shoulder blades back and adds lift to your bust right away.

Slimming Device

Problem: Your slimming device is too tight! It's digging in where it shouldn't, and it's causing more problems than when you started out.

Solution: Ditch your mega-hold in panties and try a new technique. With something as rigid as a pair of slimming panties, you're not going to be able to get too creative. Head to your lingerie drawer and cut off the support part of a pair of panty hose for a new, more comfortable pair of slimming underwear, and then choose a stretchy camisole with Lycra to smooth back lumps just a tad.

Uncomfortable Straps

Problem: Are your bra straps digging into you and causing unsightly lumps and bumps?

Solution: Banish the discomfort with an easy addition that you can purchase at any department store and many drugstores, too: a simple set of foam pads that hook onto your bra straps and keep them from hurting you. In a pinch, you can also forget about the bra and branch out: do you remember having a sexy bustier that you haven't worn since last Valentine's Day 2008? Try it out and see if that will lift and separate instead!

(Old Navy Lace-Trimmed Hipster)

Panty Trials

Problem: Is your underwear leaving unsightly lines?

Solution: If your panties are leaving marks underneath a fabulous pair of dress pants? Try wearing pantyhose underneath your trousers, which will smooth underwear lines and also allow you to "arrange" your underthings to avoid leaving telltale marks under the clingy film. You can also try wearing your underwear in a different way to stay away from pantie lines, like pulling a pair of tanga briefs up higher for a close-to-thong effect.

Slips Problem: Your dress is see-through, and you don't have a slip!

Solution: Do you have a chiffon tunic tank top or a light-colored, elastic waisted chiffon skirt? These are two very easy ways to keep yourself in that dress you love without appearing indecent!

Bra Fit Tips From Simply Be

I have been admiring some sites across the pond, and I thought you might be curious to learn about what's popular in terms of fit over there, and what are some comparable options in the States. Thanks to Simply Be, a UK lingerie brand, I learned about what makes these bras so popular, and then I did a little brainstorming myself! 

According to Charlotte Bleasdale, these are some of the most popular lingerie looks at Simply Be this season:  

Gok Wan Banger Booster

 

What Charlotte Says: "The Gok Wan lingerie range has been a really big hit. The plunge bra gives great cleavage and it's got multiway straps so it's versatile, too. It's available in Deep (Black), Passion (Purple), and Naked (Natural) and up to 42G." 

Pack of 2 Underwired Bras  

 

What Charlotte Sayst: "This bra pack is great value at just £28 for 2. The light padding and pretty pleating give a dramatic look in ruby red and black colourways up to 42G." 

U.S. Option: Chantelle Intimates "Caprice" Bra from Nordstrom

Masquerade Basque

 

What Charlotte Says: "A basque is a brilliant choice for plus girls because you get support for your stomach as well as your boobs. They make you feel very sexy! The ivory version of this basque makes lovely wedding lingerie – and you could even wear the black version out if you were feeling brave! It’s got removable straps and is available up to 38G." 

U.S. Option: Jezebel "Desire" Bustier from Macy's 
 

Masquerade Balconette Bra

 

What Charlotte Says: "It’s easy to see why this bra has been such a hit. In ravishing red with all over black lace it’s super sexy, yet still supportive up to 38G." 

U.S. Option: Chantelle "Boudoir" Demi Bra from Nordstrom
 

Panache Underwired Bra

 

What Charlotte Says: "This bra from Panache is an all-round winner and available to 40K. In practical black or white it’s ideal for every day yet will still make you feel special with pretty lace to the top of the cups." 

U.S. Option: Old Navy Full Coverage Bra 

Themed Holiday Lingerie from YumDrop

(Candy Cane Ruched Panty)

Candy Cane ruched panties are a perfect way to zest up the holidays, no matter what you celebrate. Ruched-back panties add fantastic shape and "ooomph" to your backside, and those bows are just a gorgeous addition. Try it under your favorite dark skirts and dresses to be your little secret.

 

(Satin Santa Robe)

Want to be a sexy Santa? Fuchsia is a great way to add holiday cheer with a surprise touch. Whenever you need to get saucy and stay warm in winter weather. Forget freezing in a lace camisole and slip when you can bundle yourself up in something way warmer. Black belt adds shape to the waist and defines.

 

(Rhumba Holiday Panty)

Lace-back panties are one of the hottest lingerie trends this season, and rhumba styles are the very best. Lace trim adds flirty shape and a butt boost that's fun and playful. What makes these panties so perfect is their their ability to transcend seasons. These ones are a keeper! Available in cheery red with fun details.

 
(Santa's Helper Slides)

Instead of wearing your slippers, why not amp things up with a pair of holiday mules? If you don't like lingerie much, have plenty, or just want a little something else, these are an awesome choice. Delicate striped fabric comes with red bows and bells.

 

(Plus-Size Confetti Lingerie)

Are you a plus-sized diva? This high-voltage lingerie concoction features cut-outs and plenty of spangles. Black slips with these simple shapes and embellishment will go very far, and you can wear these far beyond the time when snow flies. Available in sizes 1-2X and 3-4X.

 

(Snowflake Elf Dress)

Who doesn't love an elf?! This is a perfect costume for risk-taking holiday lovers who are down with total accessorization: fun hats, knee-high striped socks, and high heels. Rowr!

Lovely Lingerie for Less

I have a lingerie confession to make: I never treat myself to the good stuff. I've got a strong sense of frugality (well that doesn't surprise anyone!), so the only designer pieces I find are few and far between (and heavily marked down, I might add).

Bare Necessities might change all that, though, because their deals are impressive and their selection is astoundingly comprehensive. There's lots of lace available, plenty of silk pieces, and far more than just the average brief/thong combination around here! When you grab a useful coupon, everything's way more affordable, and quality is pretty much unparalleled.

(Pommier Demi Bra)

Bras with cups that feature ribbons that arch upwards are very gorgeous indeed, and mesh cups are entirely sexy without being too much. Dark blue and yellow is an interesting combination, and one that makes a nice interesting to a personal collection.

 

(Dolce and Gabbana Savana Brief)

Beautiful lingerie with an animal print captivates, and gets trendy even when you need to wear boring black for work everyday. If you can't pep up your wardrobe on the outside, consider a pretty little addition like this Dolce and Gabbana piece.

 

(Blush Underwire Bra)

Details are what make designer lingerie really stand out, and this bra is a perfect example. Along the cups you get a nice pleated detail (which is very sexy), and something very unique! Good for wearing underneath your fancy dresses-- there's nothing worse than wearing something boring underneath a "pull out all the stops" outfit.

 

(Vintage Beauty Hipster

 
(Flamenco Bustier)

The above two pieces are fantasy buys for me, but keep in mind that a pair of silk tap shorts can easily double as a pair of pajama shorts! When you need to wear a sexy something but you want to keep comfort in mind (read: no thongs allowed!), this is a great choice.

(Flocked Dot Thong)

Skirted things work well underneath puffy dresses and other items that pack a lot of volume. If you need a pair of underwear that has the "wow" factor, this is a great choice-- especially if practicality is not a concern.

 
(Fantasy Shelf Bra)

Bows are a perfect way to express your femininity, especially if you consider how much easier it is then choosing your actual wardrobe and trying to match it with already existing pieces. It's a lot easier to do that with a pair of panties and a garter belt.

 
(Leavers Lace Silk Thong)

If you're going to splurge on one item, I would recommend getting a lace thong. It's a no-panty-line essential bumped up into first class, and that's perfectly all right with me! Choose a neutral color to match with all of your bras.

Snooping Around Victoria's Secret

I'm completely surprised by Victoria's Secret this time around-- while they've been getting progressively better, I was busy scribbling down all the amazing things I'm going to buy. . . namely, lots and lots of draped jersey and silk, retro-styled lingerie, and goodies like Indian-print bikinis and such. Don't forget that you can strike at perfect times to score clearance pieces as well!

Behold, my top selections:

(Pleated Bra Top)

This sculptural piece will have everyone thinking that you nabbed it at a sample sale in New York, when you really picked it up whilst wearing your pajamas in front of the computer. Not too bad! I'm all about saving my shopping energy when I can (to save time for accessorizing), and this is a great option. A blazer would look stunning worn over it.

(Draped Jersey Tie-Neck Blouse)

A slightly "sexy secretary" piece will be right at home with a slim pencil skirt and a high pair of patent mary janes. The sweetest things come in the cutest packages, and this one is sophisticated as well (very unusual indeed!). Slip into something sexy underneath, like a shapely camisole-- I bet you can find one from Victoria's Secret without much trouble. ;)

(FitFlops)

FitFlops are my secret obsession-- they are supposedly amazing for your legs and will get right at work for toning and trimming. This is very important for anyone who loves to walk but hates to hit the gym, and I think it's a small price to pay to wear these signature shoes with magical toning and tightening qualities.

(Boho Tropical Swimsuit)

While I like to wait until the very end of summer to buy my Victoria's Secret swimsuits on sale, I just can't resist this one in purple grape-y ness (complete with ethnic elements). With simple sequined thong sandals and new accessories, this swimsuit will steal the show.

(Fun Polka Dot Bustier Set)

Romantic, fun, and flirty, this bustier is a dream. While some pieces are great for layering underneath your working bits and more, there are other pieces that exist purely for lounging. Try this piece when you are flouncing around the house. With heels, this piece will be devastating. Romance and affordability? Sign me up!

(Silk Sashed Dress)

Floaty and flattering, this dress is essential for anyone planning on impressing the in-laws or the alumni socialites. In 100% silk, this is one of the coolest dresses that I have ever seen at Victoria's Secret. if you're going to buy one thing there, let it be this one!

It's Summer Lingerie Time! Shapes for Your Shape

Check out some great summer lingerie styles!

THE BOYSHORT

(Hanes Tagless Wedgie-Free)
Boyshorts are great for body types that need a comfy alternative to thongs and the like. Low-slung boyshorts are essential for windy days when you're wearing a flirty skirt. . . I will not comment specifically on my last run-in with a blustery day, but let's just say the next time I'll be wearing something far more substantial! If you want to look slimmer, try a dark pair with pinstriped along the waistline.

THE THONG

(Calvin Klein Glamor Thong)
String thongs can be really, really intimidating, but thankfully you can get styles in a variety of fits. If you hate the way some of your thongs "cut into" your hips, consider extra high-cut styles in microfiber instead of thick elastic. Even if you hate the look of high-cut panties, like I do, they can be very useful for all sorts of high-waisted skirts and tight items. Try them in nude color for an exceptionally seamless, invisible look.

THE BRIEF

(Hanes Textured Bikinis)
Believe it or not, I see briefs as one of the least versatile pairs of panties out there. There's something really uncomfortable about them when they're too tight, too big, too baggy, or too unusual, and the panty lines are the most wicked of the bunch. Slip on a pair in a more delicate stretch (such as one from SPANX) if you must, or look for a pair like the tanga, below.

THE TAP SHORT

(Vena Cava Tap Short)
Tap shorts are ridiculously sexy when you find a pair in satin or a nice French lace. They have a large, more generous silhouette, which is great for the full-hipped and skinny minnie alike. The more luxurious the fabric, the sexier you'll feel, and when the weather gets hot, you'll also be feeling super cool.

THE TANGA

(Sexy Little Things Little Nothings Tanga)
Brazilian tanga shorts combine features from multiple sources for a great look. The thong-like back allows you to enjoy them without panty lines, the full-coverage front is similar to a boyshort or brief, and the design is somewhat like an exotic tap pant. I love wearing these types underneath jeans and longer skirts.

Lingerie Tricks: Shapewear Must-Buys

This spring and summer, we're looking at some really eclectic pieces that definitely don't just warrant wearing a regular bra. While you're on the search for a camisole or top to wear under that gorgeous and yet puzzling top, remember these suggestions to keep you looking great (and looking slimmer as well). :)

High-Waisted Shape Pieces

Let's say you've picked out the most beautiful strapless or slim-strapped dress, and you know that you need to be wearing a strapless bra beneath it. Just what can you do, though, if the waistline is that clinging type in something like silk or a georgette? I know! Pull yourself into these forgiving high-waisted pieces that fit well, look amazing, and flatter even the most reluctant of middles.

I've chosen the SPANX brand, simply because the "give" is pretty fantastic and you won't feel like you're burning up come summer.

(High-Waisted Panty Shapers; BCBG Tiered Dress)

Leg Compression Pieces

Wearing white capris and jeans can look amazing with silky, floaty shapes, but it's pretty stressful to wear white jeans, and for multiple reasons. One very scary aspect is "the dimple effect." Lumps, bumps, and the rest of it can really be highlighted by light-colored slacks, and anyone with a fuller body can get really intimidated. Since size 2 to size 24 can be plagued by light-colored clothes and all the stuff it can show off, here are my picks for longer supportwear:

(High-Falutin' Footless with Lace)

(Footless Super Control Tights)

Camis
Camis are awesome to layer underneath your tanks and tees-- particularly those ones that you desperately need to wear a bra with. Look for a bra with slim straps and layer a tank top in the same color with straps of a similar thickness beneath-- it's totally worth it. All you need to remember is that every inch counts when you're picking out summer pieces, so aim for medium-thickness straps to make your job that much easier!

Go for strapless as well!

(Hide n Sleek Strapless Cami)