Every woman deserves to feel fabulous during every hour of the day. If you're at work, at home, or out celebrating, wearing the right lingerie and hosiery will put you in the right mood. Although no one will see it (or just your partner), the undergarments you wear are just as important as your outerwear, as they will help you feel well-dressed, and will give you a much-needed confidence boost, regardless as to whether you're wearing your pyjamas or a sophisticated evening dress.

Why buy lingerie and hosiery?

Although sometimes associated with special occasions, wearing lingerie shouldn't be restricted to a few days in a year, but should be worn on a more regular basis. Why is lingerie important?

• It empowers women and enhances their fortitude
• It's alluring
• It offers you the chance to be innovative with your choice of undergarments
• Lingerie defines your personality
• You'll feel sexier and more sensual, allowing your inner femininity to shine 
• The right lingerie will accentuate your beauty- boosting your self-esteem
• Lingerie will spice up the relationship with your partner and will keep the passion ignited

What types of lingerie and hosiery can you buy?

Upon entering a lingerie store, you'll be faced with a wide range of lingerie items to choose from. Here are the most common undergarments you'll be able to find:

Briefs: thongs, G strings, French knickers, seamless and crotchless panties, hipster briefs and high waisted panties

Bras: push up bras, t-shirt, plunge and sports bras, triangle, multi-way and racer back bras, wireless and wired bras, padded and non-padded bras, bralettes, balcony and nursing bars, stick on, backless and strapless bras, and nipple covers

Hosiery: tights, stockings, suspenders, garter belts, fishnet tights

Body shapers: shape-wear pants, shorts, briefs, and tops

Chemises: babydolls, teddy lingerie, corsets, bustiers

You can also find bridal lingerie for your wedding night, body stockings and bodysuits.

Apart from lingerie items, these boutiques may also provide nightwear, such as nightdresses, dressing gowns, onesies and pyjama sets, maternal undergarments, and swimwear, when summer starts approaching.

What do you need to take into consideration when choosing lingerie?

• Fit: The lingerie you choose must fit you well. There should be no gaping in your bra cups and your bra should provide you with ample support. We recommend you avail yourself of a professional bra fitting service, which may be offered by a number of lingerie shops. The right fit will enhance your posture, will make you feel more comfortable, and will be more visually appealing.
• Style: Intimate wear should always align with your personality and your tastes. You may prefer a classic lace lingerie set, while another may opt for latex lingerie.
• Body shape: Evaluate your physical assets and buy lingerie sets which will flatter these assets and hide your flaws. You'll find intimate wear for any body type, from plus size lingerie to maternal undergarments.
• Fabric: Make sure the lingerie fabric is of high quality, and consider the design and embellishments you want in your underwear.
• Basics first: Always start with the basics before moving on to more intricate lingerie sets. Take your time to try out different types of bras and briefs to explore what suits you best, and start with matching sets.
• Comfort: When looking for lingerie for your day-to-day use, make sure you choose comfortable lingerie which won't bother you after a couple of hours, and which gives you the necessary support.
• Colour: Be bold with your choice of colour. Rather than focusing on black and white lingerie, try on bold colours and printed lingerie sets.
• Season: Consider the season you're wearing your lingerie in. Breathable lingerie would be suitable for summer, while stockings and bodysuits are options you can try on in winter.
• Different looks: Choose varied lingerie sets suitable for any mood you may find yourself in. From everyday lingerie to special undergarments appropriate for your anniversary, wedding night, Valentine's Day or any occasion, your wardrobe should have a diversity of styles.
• Take a friend: Taking someone you trust for lingerie shopping will help you decide on which lingerie styles to buy.
• Try on: Although you may know your size, always try lingerie on before buying. It may appear one way on a hanger, but otherwise, on your body.

How to care for your lingerie

Buying lingerie isn't cheap, so it's natural that you want your undergarments to serve you for a long time. So what can you do to prolong their lifespan?

• Always hand-wash your lingerie using lukewarm water and high quality soap
• If you can't hand- wash, place them in specialised laundry bags before inserting them in the washing machine to protect the delicate fabric
• Never put them in a tumble-dryer; dry lingerie in the sun
• There's no need to wash a bra after one use; washing after 2 or 3 wears is enough
• Don't wear the same bra day after day without giving it a break
• Wear your bra on its first hooks
• Be gentle and don't squeeze or twist too hard when drying
• Never use hot water
• Remove your bra at night
• Refrain from spraying any perfume or deodorant on your lingerie
• Store lingerie properly in their original shape and make sure clasps are hooked

Seeking new undergarments for your wardrobe? Apart from lingerie stores, you may also find intimate wear at swimwear shops, boutiques, underwear shops, and sex shops.