Shopping for lingerie should feel exciting — but for many people, it ends up feeling frustrating. Styles that look incredible on the hanger don't always translate the same way on every body, and that disconnect can make the whole process feel harder than it needs to be.
The good news: once you understand a few basic principles of proportion and fit, choosing lingerie becomes far more intuitive. Here's a straightforward guide for every common silhouette.
Hourglass Figure
If your bust and hips are roughly equal in width and you have a defined waist, you have what stylists call an hourglass figure. This is one of the most versatile shapes for lingerie because most styles will naturally flatter your proportions.
Best choices: Anything that highlights your waist — a fitted bodysuit, a wrap-style teddy, or a structured corset will accentuate your natural curves beautifully. High-waisted brief sets also work well.
What to watch: Avoid bralettes with no structure if you're larger-busted — they may not offer the support that makes you feel most comfortable.
Pear / Triangle Shape
A pear shape — narrower shoulders and bust with wider hips — is incredibly common and looks stunning in lingerie that creates visual balance between top and bottom.
Best choices: Opt for bras and tops with embellishment, texture, or underwire that draw attention upward. A balconette or push-up bra adds fullness to the bust, while a pair of high-cut briefs elongates the legs. Dark-bottomed sets can also help create a harmonious, balanced look.
What to avoid: Very full-cut high-waisted panties that emphasise the hip line if that's not the effect you're after.
Apple / Inverted Triangle Shape
If you carry more weight in the upper body — broader shoulders and a fuller bust with narrower hips — you want lingerie that creates softness around the middle and draws attention to your legs.
Best choices: A bodysuit with a deep V-neckline creates a long vertical line that's incredibly flattering. High-cut legs and thong-style bottoms add visual length to the lower body. Soft fabrics like satin and modal drape well and don't add extra volume.
What to watch: Heavily padded bras may add more volume than you want up top. A soft bralette or lightly lined underwire bra can be a better fit.
Rectangle / Athletic Shape
A more straight-up-and-down silhouette — where shoulders, waist, and hips are close in measurement — has the advantage of looking great in almost any cut. The goal here is usually to create the illusion of curves.
Best choices: Ruffled or frilled bra cups add bust fullness. A waist-cinching corset creates an hourglass effect instantly. Babydoll and chemise styles skim the body in a way that suggests curves without being tight.
What to look for: Patterns, textures, and embellishments all add visual interest and dimension. Don't shy away from maximalist lace — it suits this shape perfectly.
Petite Frame
Being petite doesn't limit your lingerie choices — but certain cuts can elongate your silhouette and make you feel your most confident.
Best choices: High-cut briefs and thongs make legs look longer. Delicate bralettes with minimal bulk keep proportions light. Monochromatic sets (top and bottom in the same colour) also create a continuous line that adds visual height.
What to avoid: Very wide waistbands or heavily structured pieces that can appear to cut the body in two. Choose styles with fine, unobtrusive detailing instead.
Fuller Bust
If you're a D cup or above, support and structure matter as much as style. The right bra can transform how every other piece of lingerie fits.
Best choices: Underwire bras with wider straps and full cups offer the best support and shape. Balconette styles create a flattering, lifted silhouette without feeling overly covered. Look for bras with a sturdy hook-and-eye closure — at least three rows — for long-term comfort.
A note on sizing: Many people wear the wrong bra size for years. If lingerie has never felt quite right, it may be worth a professional fitting before your next purchase. The difference is significant.
The Rule That Overrides Everything
All of the above is guidance, not rules. The lingerie you feel most confident in — regardless of whether it "should" suit your body type — is always the right choice. Wear what makes you feel like yourself.
Browse our full collection of lingerie, bodysuits, corsets and sleepwear and find the pieces that speak to you. If you're not sure where to start, our fit quiz can help narrow things down.