Strapless or seamless? Key pieces of lingerie EVERY woman should own

Style

Oct 6, 2015

The world of lingerie can be a daunting one, but you don't have to go donning suspenders to feel fabulous in your underwear.

From a well-fitted strapless bra to form-fitting shapewear, there are a few key items of lingerie that every woman should have in her wardrobe.

Go for basic blacks and nudes, or opt for the jewel tones that are everywhere this season – it's all about using your lingerie to enhance your natural silhouette.

We caught up with Brown Thomas Lingerie Buyer Roslyn Ellis at the Fit to Feel Fabulous Press Show today, and got the lowdown on her ultimate underwear essentials.

1. A strapless bra
"Coming into party season, a good strapless bra is essential," Roslyn explains.

"Come in for a fitting, as a strapless bra gives support from the base so it's really important that you're wearing the right size for your shape – different styles work for different people."

Fashion Forms U-Plunge Strapless and Backless Bra, €30

Simone Perelle Celeste Strapless Bra, €74

2. Shapewear that works for you
"It's not about squeezing into shapewear these days, it's about working with your natural silhouette," Roslyn says.

"So if your tummy is somewhere you're worried about, there's shapewear that has zoned control there doesn't squeeze you in on the bum. There is so much innovation in shapewear these days."

Walcoal Retro Chic High Waisted Briefs, €34

Spanx Retro Briefs, €36

3. A well-fitting t-shirt bra
"T-shirt bras come in so many styles these days, and as long as your bra is fitted properly, there's a huge variety of options open to you," Roslyn explains.

"Don't be afraid to try new things – soft cups, lace styles, delicate straps – you'd be surprised what works."

Triumph Sheer Velvet Sensation Bra, €50

Stella McCartney Elena Reading Bra, €59.95

4. A pair of seamless underwear
"You 100 percent need some invisible briefs," says Roslyn. "They're perfect for everyday outfits and under evening wear too."

Calvin Klein Naked Touch Thong, €26

DKNY Seamless Energy Bikini Briefs, €15.95

5. Something you feel FABULOUS in
"If your bra is fitted correctly you won't even notice you're wearing one, but I love knowing I'm wearing a gorgeous bra underneath all the same," Roslyn says.

"It's a huge self-confidence booster."