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There’s something transformative about slipping into a piece of lingerie you love. While Valentine’s Day often turns our attention to lace and silk, it’s worth remembering that the best lingerie brands craft pieces meant to be enjoyed far beyond a romantic rendezvous. These styles, designed with their attention to detail, offer more than just beauty—they invite us to feel luxurious, confident, and wonderfully ourselves. And isn’t that the most meaningful kind of romance?
Because lingerie isn’t just about how it looks (though, of course, that’s part of the magic); it’s about how it makes us feel. A delicate bralette layered under your favorite oversized sweater, a perfectly-fitted bodysuit that feels like a second skin, or even the matching set you keep for no special occasion at all—these are the romanticize-your-life moments that elevate the everyday. Whether it’s for those long mornings spent with a book in bed or a solo evening on the couch with nothing but your cats and a glass of wine (hi, me), the right lingerie can remind us of the beauty in the quiet of life.
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
Lingerie 101: Find Your Best Style and Fit
This February, we’re embracing lingerie not just as a nod to romance but as an essential part of romanticizing our own lives. Because the best lingerie is more than an accessory—it’s an act of self-love, a declaration that you always deserve to feel your best. From timeless classics to the more modern and bold, dive into our guide to the best lingerie brands ahead.
How to Measure Your Bra Size
Finding the perfect-fitting bra can feel like an impossible task—and as a result, many of us often settle for discomfort without even realizing it. In a previous article, I looked into why so few of us know our true fit. One key takeaway? Sizing isn’t static—our bodies change, and our bras should, too.
According to Cami Raymond, Senior Design Director at Ruby Ribbon, the first step is getting sized regularly—ideally every six to twelve months. She recommends visiting a professional fitter for the most accurate results. Equally important is knowing when to swap out old bras—fabric stretching, loose straps, and misshapen cups are all signs that it’s time for a refresh.
Beyond size, Raymond emphasizes the importance of choosing bras that fit your lifestyle. She suggests having at least seven bras: four for every day and three for specific needs, like workouts or special occasions.
How to Care for Your Lingerie
Lingerie is an investment, and proper care can extend its lifespan. Hand-washing is the best option to maintain delicate fabrics and prevent wear. But if you prefer machine-washing, using a lingerie bag on a delicate cycle can help protect your pieces from snagging or losing their shape. After washing, air drying is essential.
The Best Lingerie Brands for Effortless Elegance
The best pieces strike a balance between beauty and comfort. Whether you’re drawn to lace, minimalist silhouettes, or everyday essentials with a touch of luxury, the right lingerie can elevate your wardrobe in ways both seen and unseen. Below, we’ve rounded up the best lingerie brands that deliver your perfect fit—and the kind of quality that makes every day feel a little more special.
Comfort & Versatility: Negative Underwear
With a focus on seamless fits and no-fuss designs, Negative Underwear is the go-to brand for women seeking effortlessly comfortable pieces for daily wear. Embracing a minimalist approach, the brand prioritizes comfort, quality, and function—ditching unnecessary padding and adornments in favor of essential, well-crafted pieces.
Accessible Luxury: KAT The Label
I discovered KAT The Label a few years back and have been obsessed ever since. The brand’s pieces add a luxe touch underneath any outfit—I love styling the bras underneath an oversized button-down. Chic. And I’ve never felt sexier than in this set. (Science?) Consider this the cool-girl favorite, perfect for those who want a minimalist but elevated design that defines feminine energy.
Stunning Sophistication: Fleur du Mal
Get ready for a lingerie drawer upgrade—Fleur du Mal is extra in all the best ways. Blurring the line between fashion and intimates, the brand elevates lingerie with luxurious fabrics. Playful yet sophisticated, its designs range from statement-making silhouettes to everyday essentials. Need a confidence boost? Shop away.
Splurge-Worthy Style: KIKI de Montparnasse
KIKI de Montparnasse is the definition of understated seduction. Every piece feels like a secret indulgence—crafted from decadent fabrics with details that are impossibly chic. Slip into one of their silk bras and I guarantee: main character energy. Whether it’s a lace bodysuit or the perfect satin slip, this is lingerie designed for the woman who knows that true luxury is all about how it makes you feel.
European Elegance: Cosabella
Cosabella is the kind of lingerie that makes you feel beautiful before you even get dressed. Their signature Italian lace is both delicate and durable—soft against the skin but structured enough to feel supportive. I love slipping into one of their bralettes under a cozy sweater or wearing a lace bodysuit as a base layer for a night out. It’s the perfect mix of indulgence and practicality, proving that everyday lingerie should be just as stunning as it is comfortable.
Minimalist & Modern: CUUP
I first came to CUUP by way of their beyond-flattering swimwear, so when I tried their lingerie, I had high expectations—and it did not disappoint. Their minimalist yet ultra-supportive bras strike the perfect balance between style and function, made with luxe, unlined fabrics that celebrate your natural shape rather than covering it up. The fit is impeccable (53 sizes!), and each piece feels like it was made for my body, not the other way around. If you love clean lines, modern silhouettes, and lingerie that makes you feel both powerful and effortless, CUUP is it.
Classic & Refined: Journelle
Journelle is where I go when I want lingerie that feels equal parts effortless and indulgent. Their pieces are refined but never fussy—modern silhouettes, elevated fabrics, and a fit that makes you feel like your best self. Whether I’m looking for something minimalist and sleek or a little more romantic, they always deliver. Consider this the ultimate destination for lingerie that works as hard as you do (and looks gorgeous doing it).
French-Girl Fave: Etam
French girl style will forever be in. It’s that effortlessly enviable je ne sais quoi that has us frantically pulling sweaters from Sézane, dresses from Isabel Marant, and yes—lingerie from Etam. A household name for over a century, the brand has mastered the balance of sexy and wearable, with bras that flatter, silks that drape just right, and embroidery that looks far more expensive than it is. Consider this your answer to looking (and feeling) French, no matter where you are.
