Lingerie Glossary

Lingerie Glossary

Your A-to-Z guide to every term in the world of lingerie.

A

  • Adhesive Bra — A backless, strapless bra that sticks directly to the skin.

B

  • Balconette — A bra with wide-set straps and a horizontal cut across the bust, creating a lifted, rounded shape.
  • Bandeau — A strapless tube-style top or bra.
  • Bikini — Low-rise panties with moderate coverage.
  • Body (Bodysuit) — A one-piece garment that covers the torso, often with a snap closure at the crotch.
  • Bralette — An unstructured, wireless bra, often lace, designed for light support and comfort.
  • Brief — Full-coverage panty with a high waist.
  • Bustier — A form-fitting, strapless top that extends to the waist, often with boning.

C

  • Chemise — A short, loose-fitting nightgown or slip dress.
  • Corset — A tightly fitted garment with boning and lacing, designed to cinch the waist.
  • Crotchless — Open-crotch panties or bodysuits.

D

  • Demi Cup — A bra style covering about half the breast, offering less coverage than a full-cup.

G

  • Garter Belt — A belt worn around the waist with attached straps to hold up stockings.
  • G-String — Minimal-coverage panty with a thin string at the back.

H

  • Hipster — Low-rise panties with wide side bands that sit on the hips.

P

  • Plunge Bra — A bra with a deep V-neckline, perfect for low-cut tops.
  • Push-Up — A bra with padding at the bottom of the cup to lift and enhance cleavage.

S

  • Shapewear — Compression garments that smooth and sculpt the body.
  • Slip — A lightweight undergarment worn beneath a dress or skirt.
  • Strapless — A bra without shoulder straps.

T

  • Teddy — A one-piece lingerie garment combining a camisole top with panties.
  • Thong — Panty with minimal rear coverage.
  • T-shirt Bra — A seamless, moulded-cup bra that is invisible under fitted tops.

W

  • Waist Cincher — A wide belt or corset-style garment that cinches the waist.
  • Wireless — A bra without underwire for soft, natural support.