I’m on the cusp of my 28th birthday (i.e. prime Saturn return time), and I simultaneously feel as old as Luke Skywalker in the most recent Star Wars films and like I need to be carried around like a baby everywhere á la those Ariana Grande rumors. A recent makeover of my underwear drawer, though, has done wonders for helping me feel more adult. Wearing nice lingerie just feels so grown-up.
Do you know another thing that feels grown up? Being fiscally responsible. So none of the pieces below cost more than $100. And, obviously, they’re all pretty and sexy and will make you feel like a woman who has got her sh*t together—even if, like most of us, you’re still trying to figure things out. Call it role play.
Bluebella Etienne Bodysuit, $64
My favorite part about this bodysuit is that you could take a cue from Rihanna or Bella Hadid and totally wear it outside the bedroom with a skirt or high-waisted pants.
Savage x Fenty Hearts Unlined Bra, $49 and Open-Back Hearts Hipster, $30
When selecting the image to use for this lingerie, I was torn between showing the heart appliques on the bra or the strappy back of the underwear. That is to say, this set looks amazing from all angles. And it comes in black should bright colors not be your thing.
Only Hearts Coucou Lola Tie Front Bralette, $48 and Coucou Lola Coulotte, $40
This set is equal parts naughty and nice, thanks to the ultra-feminine Swiss dots combined with very sheer mesh. Plus, you can get it in a variety of colors, from red to silver-blue to rose-blush.
Cosabella x ELOQUII Sweet Dreams Bodysuit, $99.95
Lingerie brand Cosabella created an exclusive collection of intimates in sizes XL–5X for Eloquii, and this pale pink bodysuit from the collab is one of the standout pieces. To keep it from being too princess-y, it’s embellished with snake print along the sides and bust.
Neva Nude Medusa, $18
When you want to be the most, but you don’t want to strap yourself into a corset or something of similar ilk, call upon your sequined pasties. Are they OTT? A little. Are they always a hit? Yes. It feels very burlesque. (Also, the sequins change from black to silver, and they’re handmade in Los Angeles.)
Thistle & Spire Kane Cutout V Wire Bra, $62 and Kane Cutout Thong, $32
A moment of appreciation for the fan-like details and sheer cutouts that make this set a stellar iteration of black-lace lingerie.
Madewell Lace Liana Triangle Bralette, $32 and Lace Boyshort, $12
A light-pink lace duo that’s just really, really pretty.
Blush Bound Bralette, $38 and Bound High Waist Brief, $32
If your tastes are more sporty than frilly, this athleisure-inspired, minimalist lingerie set is for you.
Now that you’re inspired to buy some new lingerie, here’s the right way to wash it. (Yes, technique is involved.)Also, is it really necessary to wear a bra every day?
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