Choosing the right underwear is just as important as selecting the right outerwear. It shapes our silhouette, so it should fit perfectly. Even a minor detail like a visible bra strap or a see-through bra print can ruin your entire outfit, no matter how stylish and well-fitted it may be.
At The Kitchen Survival, we want to highlight some common mistakes people make, even those who think they know all about selecting the right underwear. In the bonus section, you’ll find a few essential tips that any woman will find helpful.
Visible bra straps
Visible bra straps can detract from any outfit, which is why celebrities rarely have visible underwear on the red carpet. A strapless bra is ideal if your bust size permits. For V-neck dresses and tops, you can find bras with adjustable or removable straps. If you need support for a racerback tank top, a special clip can bring the straps together at the back.
Sleeve armholes and a bra
Wide and low sleeveless armholes can be challenging to style, but if you’re a fan of this look, there are a few tips you can follow.
Opt for a silicone bra with transparent straps and an underband. This will provide support without being noticeable. For a more casual outfit, consider wearing a decorative camisole in a matching color—just avoid lace for a cleaner look.
A bra and a low neckline
Evening dresses and summer outfits often feature backless designs or low necklines. To look stunning in these styles, it’s essential to choose the right undergarments.
For a backless dress, an adhesive invisible bra is an excellent option. This bra has no straps and can function like a push-up bra if it has laces in the front. For a low neckline, a special type called a “plunge” bra is recommended. Its underband sits very low, making it discreet and perfect for such outfits.
Colorful underwear with a contrasting print
Colorful printed undergarments can be challenging to pair with various outfits, making them less suitable for everyday wear. However, sticking to just black or n*de underwear can become monotonous. If you have a wardrobe full of vibrant lingerie sets, here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Opt for a bra with a bright, contrasting print when wearing thick fabric clothing.
Avoid wearing colorful panties under light-colored pants and skirts unless you’re aiming to draw attention.
Visible panty lines
Kim Kardashian showed us that wearing shapewear is nothing to be ashamed of, but it’s important not to overdo it. Wearing shapewear that’s too tight can cause skin irritation and discomfort. This principle also applies to regular underwear.
Remember, shapewear is not meant to force you into a smaller dress size; rather, it’s designed to smooth out lumps and create a sleeker silhouette. When choosing shapewear, select a color that matches your outfit. You can wear shapewear with or without regular underwear, depending on whether the garment includes a gusset and breast support.
Undergarments that are too tight
When wearing tight clothing, it’s best to choose undergarments without any decoration. Seamless undergarments are ideal, as they have thin edges that don’t leave visible panty or bra lines. They’re perfect for cocktail dresses and light summer outfits. Skin-colored underwear works well with both light and colorful clothing. Thongs are another good option because they don’t show lines. Additionally, shapewear can help create a sleeker silhouette while still being comfortable.
N*de and black
Choosing a n*de bra might seem straightforward, but there are some important factors to consider. When wearing black outfits, it’s best to opt for black underwear, as a n*de bra may be visible through the fabric. The range of neutral shades in lingerie can be quite broad, making it challenging to find an exact match for your skin tone. The inner forearm often provides the most accurate representation of your natural skin color. However, it’s not crucial if your undergarments are slightly darker or lighter than your skin tone.
High-waisted underwear and low-waisted clothing
High-waisted clothing is making a comeback, and it’s important to consider your choice of underwear accordingly. High-waisted panties can help smooth and shape your figure, making them a great match for high-waisted trousers, skirts, jeans, and shorts. Opting for low-waisted underwear with high-waisted clothing can lead to discomfort and draw attention to areas you’d prefer to minimize. On the other hand, if you’re wearing low-waisted pants or skirts, it’s best to choose low-waisted panties to avoid them showing above the waistband.
Bonus: A few basic rules of wearing underwear
It’s advisable to replace your panties every six months, as they can stretch out and potentially harbor bacteria and infections. French lingerie experts suggest purchasing new panties each time you buy a new deodorant. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a few pairs of panties that match one bra, as they tend to wear out faster. To keep your lingerie looking new for longer, hand wash it whenever possible.
