Love wearing exquisite lingerie? Here is how to use it the right way

Bold, empowering and sexy, lingerie today has evolved massively. It's no longer only an undergarment, but a style statement in itself that holds the supreme power to boost any woman's confidence and self-esteem. A testament to this was the launch of Victoria's Secret's store in Mumbai that had the city's women flocking to the mall forming a long queue outside the store to get their hands on a variety of lingerie.

Exquisite lingerie uses delicate and smooth fabrics involving careful craftmanship to offer women a sensual experience of wearing it. Women spend extravagantly on lingerie for comfort and confidence. Since lingerie are made using delicate and premium fabrics, critical care is essential. Further, following basic lingerie etiquette only helps you maintain personal hygiene and stay clean. However, the innumerable do's and don'ts revolving around personal hygiene and lingerie care can lead to confusion. Mid-day online spoke to relevant experts who share insightful tips for women to follow.

"Materials used to make lingerie are delicate demanding right care. A form of self-expression, lingerie plays a huge role in boosting woman's confidence," says Bhavin Devpuria, marketing head India & Sri Lanka, Triumph International.

Devpuria advices women to be experimental with their lingerie. "To understand what fits best for you, exploring multiple lingerie styles is very effective. Without experimenting with different lingerie, finding what works best for your body and mind could be difficult. As the maker of lingerie for over 135 years, we aim to help women discover their right fit and empower them to flaunt their style."

Dr Preethika Shetty, consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi reminds us that while donning new styles, it is also paramount to follow basic personal hygiene.

Use of lingerie and personal hygiene
Shetty says, "Unhygienic habits and unclean undergarments stand a risk of causing urinary tract infections or UTIs. It occurs when intestinal bacteria creep up into the vagina. If you wear the same pants for an extended period of time, faeces particles may enter your vagina too and cause an infection. So, always wear fresh garments and try washing them in hot water to remove all infectious particles."

Besides UTI, vaginitis, vulval infections are also common. Vaginal candidiasis is very common that develops rash and causes irritation, itching, white discharge and foul smell. To avoid catching any such infection Shetty lists down key points that every woman must follow when it comes to proper use of undergarments.

Cotton and cotton-blend fabrics are skin-friendly. However, you are not restricted! You can experiment with different stretch materials such as stretch velvet, lace and mesh and pick the ones that work best for you.

Have a bath regularly. Wash your genital area well

When menstruating, tampons and sanitary napkins should be changed at least four to five times every day. Always wash your hands before and after touching a tampon or pad.

While changing your panties every day is mandatory to avoid accumulation of dirt, perspiration, germs and oil, it is highly suggested to change your panties twice a day. This reduces the chances of infection.

Avoid wearing tight pants as they can be unpleasant and in certain situations can be harmful to your health.

It is advisable to change and buy new pair of lingerie after every 6-12 months. You can also consider various indicators to decide on a good time to replace the old garments with new ones.

Types of Lingerie and their purpose
Listing down the common types of lingerie most women prefer using, Triumph International's Devpuria says, "Various types of innerwear options fulfil different purposes and provide different levels of comfort and support."

Types of bras

T-shirt Bra:
A T-shirt bra is seamless and usually has moulded cups that provide the utmost support and a smooth appearance under fitted or thin clothes. T-shirt bras are a go-to option for everyday wear as well as special occasions.

Push-up Bra:
Most preferred for an enhanced and pronounced lift, this type of bra is designed to create a fuller shape that gives the perfect push and ample cleavage as desired.

Sports Bra:
Sports bras are specifically designed to minimize breast movement during physical activities like working out, providing support, and reducing discomfort or potential damage. The recently launched Triumph TRIACTION - an activewear collection, has such bras designed to provide grip and comfort during workouts.

Strapless Bra:
A popular choice, the strapless bra does not have shoulder straps and is designed to be worn with off-shoulder, strappy or one-shoulder outfits while still offering support.

Types of panties

Briefs:
Most commonly opted, briefs are daily wear essentials that provide high coverage and superior fit. Their function is to offer comfort and support while minimizing visible panty lines.

Seamless Panties:
Seamless panties are made without visible seams providing a smooth appearance under tight-fitting clothing.

Making the right choice
Various lingerie brands have diverse sizing options that cater to a large number of women. Devpuria says, referring to specific sizing charts can help purchase a comfortable and correct fit when buying innerwear products.

Given below are insights that will help you understand your undergarments' size better

For bras

Band Size:
The band size refers to the measurement around the ribcage just beneath the breasts. It is typically represented by a number, such as 32, 34, 36, and so on. The band size determines the width of the bra's band.

Cup Size:
The cup size represents the volume of the breasts. It is denoted by a letter, such as A, B, C, D, etc. Cup sizes are relative to the band size, meaning that the same cup size will have different volumes in different band sizes. As the band size increases, the cup size also increases to maintain the same volume.

Here's a chart to illustrate the progression of cup sizes:

Band Size:
32 34 36 38 40 44

Cup Size:

A Cup
B Cup
C Cup
D Cup
E Cup
F Cup
G Cup

It is important to note that this chart represents a basic progression and may not include all possible cup sizes. Some brands may use alternative sizing systems or additional cup sizes.

For panties
Panties are typically sized using a combination of waist and hip measurements. The exact sizing chart may vary by brand, but generally, the sizes can be categorized as follows:

Small:
Waist size around 25-27 inches (63.5-68.5 cm) and hip size around 35-37 inches (89-94 cm).

Medium:
Waist size around 28-30 inches (71-76 cm) and hip size around 38-40 inches (96.5-101.5 cm).

Large:
Waist size around 31-33 inches (79-84 cm) and hip size around 41-43 inches (104-109 cm).

Extra large:
Waist size around 34-36 inches (86-91 cm) and hip size around 44-46 inches (112-117 cm).

These are a few general guidelines but it's always best to refer to the specific sizing information provided by the brand you are purchasing from. Each brand may have its own unique sizing system and measurements.

Choose bras and panties that offer comfort, support and make you feel confident.

Undergarments best for regular use
The use of T-shirt bras and briefs is quite popular and preferred. Many women choose to wear T-shirt bras as they are multi-purpose, highly comfortable, and provide a seamless look. The fit is just right, and the support provided is sufficient.

As for briefs, cotton material is usually the first choice. A smooth fit is of utmost importance. High-quality breathable material and full coverage are something that most women check while buying panties.

Hence, these two kinds of innerwear make for an essential item that every woman should own for everyday use. Depending on the bust size, some women prefer non-wired T-shirt bras for regular use while some women choose wired if they have bigger cups.

Colours that go with outfits
Devpuria suggests tips to pair the right coloured bras with specific outfits

Nude:
It's no secret that a nude/neutral bra is the best to wear under light-coloured or sheer fabric.

White:
A white-coloured bra can be worn with light-coloured tops for a seamless look. However, be cautious with thin or see-through fabrics, as the bra may still be visible.

Black:
A black bra can create a striking contrast when worn under light-coloured garments or white clothing. It can also be paired with darker or bold-coloured tops for a more edgy look.

Coloured bra:
With coloured bras, you can be more experimental. You can use them to add a pop of colour or create interesting combinations. From styling red colour bras under black jackets or blazers to wearing pastels under cool-toned tops, coloured bras can create a vibrant and refreshing look.

Easy hacks to manage a showing bra-line
A showing bra line makes most women conscious discouraging them completely from wearing certain kinds of body-fitting fabric. Devpuria says, "Don't let it stand in your way from wearing something you like."

The most important tip would be to wear the correct bra size. Fitted shoulder straps, proper cup and band size will remedy unwanted bra lines.

Another thing to consider is the quality of the bra. Seamless and breathable cups ensure a superior experience. Other features like hooks, adjustable straps, padding, etc can also affect the overall look and utility of the bra.

Wearing seamless undergarments is a popular trick to avoid visible bra lines. Again, the material will play an important role here.

One can also wear camisoles or shapewear to completely hide any visible bra lines. Adding an extra layer can help smooth out any visible lines and provide a more seamless look.

Appropriate lingerie care
The worst thing you can do to your lingerie, especially bras, is give it a machine wash. As lingerie experts, Triumph advises the following wash-care for undergarments:

Because the lingerie material is usually delicate and might have underwire technology, it is better to bucket wash your bras in lukewarm water for 10 to 15 minutes.

Use a toothbrush to scrub off dirt around the edges. Do not twist or squeeze the bra to remove excess water as it might soil and damage the product.

Hang your bra from the centre for proper rapid drying.

For a sustained cup shape and longer durability, avoid folding the bras and simply store them with cups inside of each other.

Also Read: Want to up your monsoon fashion game? Here's an easy styling guide