Beneath the Surface

Often, we are so concerned about the clothes that other people see, that we do not pay nearly enough attention to the garments that we ourselves and perhaps another lucky person get to experience.

What I'm talking about is lingerie.

The layer that can take your look and your confidence from average to killer. From fit to pattern, lingerie makes all the difference in an ensemble. If you start with pieces that flatter your body and make you feel sexy and confident, your outfit will triple in effectiveness.

First of all, the fit of lingerie, although predominantly unseen, is crucial. Panties should not cut in at your sides and bras should support and flatter, depending on your chest size. If you are larger on top, look for a bra with wide straps and full coverage, but make sure it still has a fun print or lace edge to it. If you are smaller, you have more options, but you still want to go with something that gives you nice shape and is not too big or too tight. If you are wearing ill fitting undergarments, your look will not flow and be as cohesive as it could with the proper getup.

Beyond fit, lingerie should make you feel confident even if the outside world just sees your sweatpants and boots. Underpinnings do not necessarily have to be full on vixen, since cute looks like plaid and stripes can be sexy and comfortable as well.

Even super athletic, masculine looks have been showing up in the collections of designers like Alexander Wang. Although this look is predominantly masculine, the velour trim keeps it sexy and feminine.

ShopStyle for Alexander Wang bras

Bustiers and corsets are an ultra-feminine alternative to the regular bra, adding more support and shape as well.

Urban Outfitters for bustiers

Calvin Klein designs classic femme fatale looks.

Shop Calvin Klein for classic pieces

If you want to go all out for a special day or night, La Perla is always an indulgent option.

Shop La Perla

For comfy, flirty every day look try stripes, plaid or polka dots.

Shop cute basics at Free People

There are a million fun routes to take when applying the first layer of clothing, just make sure whatever you choose makes you feel sexy and comfortable before anyone else.

xx Lula