Lingerie
Lingerie is a term primarily used for articles of undergarments
for women that are meant to be erotic or visually appealing. It wasn't
until the latter part of the nineteenth century that the quality of
being visually appealing was conceptualized when it came to underclothing
for women. Primarily, women's underwear up through the first half of
the twentieth century was selected for hygiene, modesty, or its ability
to alter the shape of the body.
However, lingerie became more and more form fitting as well as smaller
and smaller as the twentieth century progressed. During the 1960s was
when the concept of lingerie being sexy was explored. Although it is
a pretty standard association today, at that time it was very controversial.
More recently, lingerie has seen design implementation which often
allows it to double as outerwear. Camisoles are a great example of this.
Lingerie comes in many different types. Here are a few examples:
Negligee – These are considered a form of nightgown which
arose in eighteenth century France. Modern versions are loose and often
translucent.
Baby doll – This is a short negligee. It usually ends
at the hips although it may be shorter or longer in length.
Corset – Worn to shape the torso, this type of bodice
should technically be boned. Historical versions had a high impact on
the form of the wearer. Modern styles often have little to no lasting
effect on the figure.
Basque – This is basically a long corset. However, it
usually does not compress the torso in such as way as to mold the figure.
Teddy – Another term for this apparel item is a cami-knicker.
This lingerie resembles a bodysuit. It is comprised of both panty and
camisole existing as one piece.
Boyshorts – Inspired my men's boxer shorts, these panties
go all the way down the hips. The term may also be used for bathing
suit bottoms of the same cut.
Brassiere – More commonly referred to as a bra, this
article of clothing works to cover, support, and elevate the breasts.
Bandeau – This is a type of bra which does not have shoulder
straps. They do not generally include cups in the same fashion as strapless
brassieres. Instead, the bandeau will basically operate as a very small
tube top.
Thong – Also known as a tanga, this undergarment has
a thin strip of fabric serving as its back. There are many different
thong varieties. For instance, a g-string makes use of a string as opposed
to fabric at its back. A v-string, on the other hand, has its singular
string branch off into two before connecting to the band of the waist.
A c-string, on the other hand, has no upper waist band. Instead, it
relies upon its internal framework to remain in place.
Bustier – This is similar to a basque although much shorter.
It is meant to elevate the bust by being held tight to the upper midriff.
It also serves to shape the waist. Often, it is worn with dresses which
have low backs.