Adhesive BraA stick-on backless bra made with medical grade adhesive. |
Anatomical PouchA roomy pouch designed with enough depth to contain a men's genitals and hold them slightly away from the body. This reduces rubbing, painful compression and sticking to your leg. |
Ankle (sock height)A sock that rises above the ankle but stays below the calf. Also called a quarter sock. |
Athletic (sock)A sock specifically designed for athletic activity, that provides support, sweat absorption and anti-microbial properties to reduce odor. |
Back Close (bra)The typical hook-and-eye closure of a bra, found on the back. The term is used mainly to differentiate from front closure bras. If it is not stated whether a bra is back or front closure, it's safe to assume it is back closure. |
Balconette BraAlso known as a Shelf Bra, a Balconette Bra has a horizontal bustline that promotes lift and cleavage from beneath the breast, typically without the use of padding. This makes it a favorite among average to full-busted women who prefer a lift but don't like want the extra bulk of padding. A Balconette Bra provides more coverage than the similar Demi-Cup Bra. |
Bamboo FabricFabric made from bamboo fibers is extremely environmentally friendly because it doesn't require replanting or chemical fertilizers. The fibers of the bamboo plant are naturally porous, so they absorb moisture and wick it away from the skin. It keeps you cooler and drier than synthetics or cotton. |
Bandeau BraA bra style modeled after a tube top that offers minimal support. Usually once piece that you slip over your head to wear. Bandeau bras are commonly worn as a bra alternative when lounging and sleeping. |
Big and TallA category of men's garments and underwear that are specially designed with larger proportions to better fit men with above-average height and waist measurements. Examples include longer length shirts and underwear with fuller waist cuts. |
Bikini (men's)Snug fitting underwear styled after a brief, but featuring high cut legs and less rear coverage than a traditional brief. |
Bikini PantiesA brief style panty with high cut leg openings. Bikinis typically fall at the hips, rather than the waist, and provide moderate rear coverage. Bikinis range from ultra lean cuts (string bikini) to fuller, more traditional silhouettes. |
BodysuitA one-piece, form-fitting garment that covers the torso. Shapewear commonly comes in bodysuit form, providing full-body slimming benefits, including torso, waist, tummy, hips, thighs and butt. |
BoningA rigid support structure sewn into the vertical seams of a garment or bra, designed to maintain a thin, shapely look. Early types of boning were made from whale bones, hence the name, but modern boning is mostly made from plastic or thin strips of metal. Boning is commonly found on the midriff section of longline bras (bustiers) and corsets, and even on the wings of traditional bras. |
Boxer BriefA men's underwear style that combines the length of a boxer short with the snug fit and support of a brief. This long length provides light athletic support and anti-chafing benefits, making the boxer brief a sought after sports essential. |
Boxer ShortLoose-fitting underwear with an elastic waistband, so-called because of its resemblance to shorts worn in boxing matches. The leg of a boxer short can be a variety of lengths, but is always loose on the leg. Their relaxed fit makes them a great sleep option. |
Boyshorts (or Boyleg)A full coverage panty version of a man's trunk style underwear. Boyshorts traditionally have a low rise fit and leg length ranges from square cut to a 1 inch inseam. Their length and comfort lead them to be great everyday underwear, as well as a common lounge option. |
BraletteAn unlined, soft cup bra that offers light support. Commonly used as a teen bra, training bra, or lounging around/sleeping bra. |
Bridal BraTechnically, a bridal bra is anything that offers the perfect look under a wedding dress. It is common, however, for women to wear a strapless bustier-style bra to give a slimming effect with no straps. A number of lingerie companies, like Le Mystere, Goddess, Wacoal and Carnival, all make a line of bras specifically to cater to brides. |
Brief (men's)Traditional, snug-fitting underwear with no leg and full rear coverage. Briefs can have a functional fly or no fly at all. |
Bustier (aka Longline Bra)A corset-style lingerie garment that extends through the torso to the hips. Bustiers are characteristically boned to create a contoured "hourglass" shape. Styles range from simple, no-nonsense shaping to lavishly decorated in lace and applique. |
Butt BoostingUnderwear designed to make the butt look bigger than it does, usually by the use of lifting straps or hidden pads. |
CamisoleA sleeveless top with thin, sometimes adjustable shoulder straps. Shapewear versions provide upper body compression to create a slimmer, smoother silhouette. |
Camisole Straps (bra)Wide bra straps that appear to be an extension of the cup. Camisole straps don't dig into the skin like thinner, spaghetti straps tend to do on certain women. |
Casual (sock)A crew style sock that typically falls at mid-calf. Made from a variety of fabrics, ranging from polyester to cotton, casual socks provide a level of coverage and cushioning that makes them great for everyday wear. |
Chantilly LaceThe original Chantilly Lace was a handmade floral bobbin lace from the city of Chantilly, France. Semi-sheer with large and small flowers, this lace has become popular in the construction of lingerie. |
CharmeuseA specific weave of fabric that is soft, supple and drapes beautifully with a shiny, satin finish on one side and a dull finish on the other (inside). It is commonly made of silk, but can also be found in polyester. |
ChemiseThe chemise was originally created for wear by both men and women as a protective layer between the skin and outerwear garments. In the modern age, however, a chemise is almost always a loose-fitting, sleeveless shirt-like lingerie item for women. The traditional style lacks definition in the waist area, but the modern ones are sexy and contoured. |
ChiffonThis elegant, sheer silk weave is ultra-lightweight and strong. Chiffon comes from the French word for "rag" because it has a slightly rough feel to it. |
CleavageThe vertical line created by a women's breasts. Cleavage can be made more prominent by using a push-up bra, which contains padding that pushes your breasts up and out for a more defined silhouette. |
Combed CottonThis extra-soft cotton is called combed because the shortest, additional fibers are removed (as by combing) leaving only high-quality yarns with excellent strength and softness. Many intimate apparel companies use combed cotton because it feels so good against sensitive skin. |
Compression ShortsForm-fitting athletic undergarments that have the look and feel of cycling shorts, but apply more compression pressure to combat muscle fatigue. |
Contour (bra cup)A contour bra has pre-molded, shaped cups made with a thin layer of foam to shape the breast and prevent nipples from showing through. In addition to providing coverage and support, contour bras are great everyday bras because they add definition and smoothness to the silhouette. Contour bras don't increase bust size, but create a rounder, symmetrical look. |
Contour PouchA pouch that is shaped to contain and slightly define a man's package. |
Control PantyThis shapewear piece has the shape of a brief and features a tummy-flattening front panel and/or total smoothing engineered into the design. It's the perfect minimal option for toning without wearing a major shapewear garment. |
Control Slip (aka Shapewear Slip)A streamlined shapewear garment that provides even, smoothing control of the bust, tummy, hips and thighs. Typically lightweight, control slips are comfortable and invisible under dresses. |
Control TopThe stretchy, slimming waistband portion of certain hosiery and panties that smoothes the shape of the tummy, hips and butt. |
Convertible (bra straps)A bra with straps that unhook so that they can be rearranged into a variety of formations, including crisscross, halter, one shoulder and even strapless. Not all convertible bras are capable of all the options, so be sure to consult the item description to make sure the strap configuration you want is there. |
CookiesPadded inserts in the cup of a bra that change the shape of the breast. Cookies can be made from fiberfill (a type of foam), water, oil or gel. Commonly found in push-up bras, cookies are what give you that perked up effect. Cookies are also used to equalize breasts of uneven sizes. |
CoolmaxA polyester-based fabric that wicks moisture away from the body to keep you cool and dry. Coolmax is commonly found in athletic style socks and undergarments. |
CorsetA tight fitting, body enhancing garment worn on the midriff to create an hourglass-shaped figure. Corsets are traditionally boned throughout the design and feature a lace-up closure in the back for optimum compression. Modern corsets often feature a hook-and-eye closure. |
CottonCotton is a natural fabric made from the fibers of the cotton plant, cherished for its durability and comfortable softness. Though 100% cotton fabric is the time-tested classic, much of the cotton used in underwear has been blended with a small amount of spandex (elastane) that helps to retain the shape of the garment. |
Crew (sock height)A sock that rises up to the mid-calf area. |
DecolletageThe area on a woman's chest just above her bust line. This term is also used to describe the low-cut neck on a garment that acts to expose this area. |
Demi Cup (bra)A demi cup bra offers minimal coverage for petite and average women. The underwires of a demi cup are much shorter which makes this type of bra great for more petite women who have issues with underwire poking out. |
Denier LevelThe measurement standard used by hosiery companies to describe the weight and thickness of nylon yarn. The lower the denier number, the thinner the yarn and the more sheer the fabric. |
Dress (men's sock style)Dress socks are usually made from a sleek material, such as mercerized cotton, that allows it to be comfortably slipped into a dress shoe, such as an oxford or wing tip. |
ElastaneAlso known as spandex, this synthetic fiber is known for its exceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, making it an ideal addition to lingerie fabric blends to yield a perfect fit. Elastane is frequently added to cotton to help the garment retain its shape. |
ElasticStretchable fiber, yarn or tape made from natural or synthetic rubber. It is used to create most waistbands and leg trims in intimate apparel because of its high level of resilience. |
Enclosed Elastic WaistbandA waistband in which the elastic strip has been covered in the same fabric used to make the garment. |
Firm Compression (shapewear)Heavy duty compression that actually transforms your shape, sometimes up to one full size. These garments really trim the fat by applying compression to the areas you need it most, re-sculpting them to appear flatter. This level of compression is ideal for special events, when you only plan to wear it for a few hours at a time. |
Flat Lock SeamThis flat seam is made with a special stitching technique that forces the seam allowance to lie against the garment rather than hanging loose from it. Overall, flat lock seams allow a garment to sit flatter against your body. Additionally, they are easy to layer over, and they reduce seam chafe. |
Floating UnderwireAn underwire with a length that doesn't extend to the edge of the bra. The extra space prevents the underwire from digging into your side, causing discomfort. |
FlyThe front opening at the pouch of certain styles of underwear. Typically constructed of two overlapping fabric panels, flys can feature buttons or snaps to keep them closed, as in the case of boxer shorts. |
Foam (bra cup)The foam used in bra cups serves many purposes. The light padding offers shaping, contouring, cushioning and prevents nipple show through. The foam also keeps its sturdy shape through wash and wear. |
FootlessA type of hosiery length created when the leg portion ends at the ankle, much like a legging. |
Frame (bra)The structure of a bra, generally the band that runs around the ribcage and holds the cups and straps. |
Front Close (bra)A bra that features a front closure mechanism rather than rear. Bras with unique one-piece backs, such as racer-back and shapewear bras feature front close clasps, as they offer a totally smooth back and they are also extremely convenient to put on. |
Full BustedA term that describes the category of women of any body shape with an above-average bust measurement. The term Full Busted is applied when a woman's measurements fall within 32D-36DD. Full Busted refers to bust size only, and is not the same as Full Figured. |
Full Coverage (bra)A full coverage bra features cups that completely cover most of the breast, offering more coverage and more support than a demi cup bra. A true full coverage cup will not cause an indentation along the top of the breast. |
Full Coverage (underwear)A term used to describe styles that rest at the waist and offer full rear coverage with a low leg line. |
Full Figure (aka Plus Size)A category of garments and intimates that are specially designed with larger proportions to better fit women with above-average bust and waist measurements. Examples include bras with modified padding, increased support and wider shoulder straps. Full Figure typically includes women who fall into bra sizes 38DD and above, and clothing size 14 and up. The term Full Figured applies to a woman's overall shape, and should not be confused with full-busted, which can include women of any body shape with an above-average bust measurement. |
G-StringA panty offering the least amount of coverage, a G-String features a narrow panel of fabric in the front that tapers to a thin band, passes between the buttocks and is attached to a thin waistband in the back. G-Strings leave your buttocks completely exposed and are worn for their ability to completely minimize visible panty lines. |
Garter, Garter BeltA garter belt is a lingerie strap worn around the waist underneath the clothing with four clips (two at front and two at back) made to hold stockings up. The garters are the straps that hang from the garter belt, attaching to the stockings. |
GirdleThe original shapewear, these undergarments are close-fitting and extend from the waist to below the hips, often made with stretchy fabrics and support boning. |
Gore, Center Gore (bra)The piece of fabric in the center of your bra that connects the two cups. The size of the center gore determines the bra's support level. A wide center gore that rises to the nipple line will provide more rigid support than the thin variety commonly used in plunge neck bras. |
GossamerA lightweight, sheer gauze-like fabric. |
GussetIn terms of lingerie, a gusset generally refers to the triangular or rectangular section of fabric in the crotch area, often a snap or hook-and-eye closure if it is a piece of shapewear. Items with sewn-in cotton gussets offer an extra layer of protection and comfort. |
Halter (bra style)A bra style that features straps that fasten behind the neck. Many halter style bras are convertible to strapless, regular and criss-cross. |
High Cut (panty)A panty that features high cut leg openings and full rear coverage. Also known as a French Cut panty, they make your legs look long and sexy. |
High RiseA term used to describe styles of underwear with waistbands that rise well above your natural waistline, covering much of the lower abdomen and, in some cases, reaching up to your navel. |
High WaistPanties and shapewear panties designed with a waistband that rises high above your natural waistline to provide support and a slimming effect to your tummy and hips. |
Hipster (panty)Panty that sits low on the hips, both at the front and the back. Hipster style panties are ideal for wearing under low rise pants and jeans. |
InseamThe vertical inner leg seam on the legs of a pair of pants or underwear with long legs, such as a boxer brief. |
JacquardA decorative woven or knitted pattern sewn onto fabric, named after its inventor, Josie Marie Jacquard. |
Jersey KnitThe same fabric from which t-shirts are made, jersey is both comfortable and durable, making it an ideal choice for a variety of undergarments. |
JockstrapA supportive and minimal undergarment made for men, especially for wear during athletic activities. The construction of a jockstrap is traditionally an elastic waistband connected to a pouch of fabric that covers the genitals, with straps across the buttocks at the rear. Some jockstraps feature a thong back. |
KimonoA wide-sleeved robe with a belt that is inspired in style by the traditional Japanese kimono. The kimono style is popular as loungewear and often features a floral or scenic print with a button, toggle, or sash closure. |
Knee Highs (hosiery)Short hosiery that comes up to just below the knee. They are styled with elastic tops and stay up without the help of garters. |
Knee-high (sock height)Socks that rise up to the knee level. |
KnitA textile made by interlacing yarn in a series of connected loops to make a soft fabric with natural stretch. |
Laser Cut EdgesA technique applied to synthetic fabrics, where by the edges are trimmed using a laser, creating a flat, seamless edge that won't unravel. Garments with laser cut edges are especially ideal under tight, clingy pants and dresses. |
Leg ShaperA shapewear style, usually resembling a bicycle short or footless tight, made to offer control and shaping throughout the legs. |
LeggingsTight, form-fitting trousers made from opaque fabric. |
Leotard Back (bra)A back bra closure where by the straps attach to the bra and create a rounded shape, similar to a leotard. Ladies love leotard backs because the added elastic provides more flexibility and movement, and the wider back band is great for smoothing over back fat. |
Light Compression (shapewear)This level of compression is achieved by a lightweight stretch fabric and provides smoothing benefits, much like a "shrink wrap" effect. The result is a more flattering, toned silhouette. Your body becomes a smoother palette and clothes will fit better. |
Light Support (bra)A bra style that features little or no banding under the cups and cutaway wings. |
Lined Cups, Lining (bra)Bra cups that are lined with seamed fabric, foam or mesh, as a way of providing shaping, comfort, uplift and support. |
Long UnderwearA close fitting undergarment, similar to leggings, worn under pants to provide an extra layer of insulation in cold weather. |
Longline Bra (Bustier)A corset-style lingerie garment that extends through the torso to the hips, also known as a bustier. Longline bras are characteristically boned to create a contoured "hourglass" shape. Styles range from simple, no-nonsense shaping to lavishly decorated in lace and applique. |
Low Back BraAny bra with narrow wings at the back and/or a U-shaped back. Ultra-low back bras sometimes have a wrap closure allowing them to fasten closer to the waist. |
Low RiseA term used to describe styles of underwear that fall below your natural waistline, and don't peep above low rise, hipster pants and jeans. |
Lycra ElastaneA registered trademark of the DuPont Company for their spandex fiber. What that means for you--a high quality spandex fiber that is woven into fabrics, such as cotton, to help them retain their shape. |
Maternity BraA bra designed with special modfications for the pregnant woman. Maternity bras offer stepped up side support, feature wider, non-elastic straps to decrease breast bounce and increased coverage and breathability to prevent breast irritation. |
Maternity PantiesA panty designed for comfort and support throughout pregnancy. Generally made from a seamless stretch microfiber, it often also features a stretchy design with ribbed support at the front and back. |
MatteThis term is normally used to describe a metallic surface with a smooth or sometimes brushed finish that lacks luster and shine. It is also used to describe the same non-lustrous finish on a fabric (as in silk chiffon). |
Medical (sock)Socks that are designed to promote circulation and foot breathability. Typically, these socks feature a non-binding elastic top and relaxed fit leg, and are endorsed by certain medical associations, such as the American Podiatric Medical Association. |
Memory FoamA dense foam that molds to your shape, forming a custom fit that provides better support and more modesty. Memory foam is commonly used to line bra cups. |
Men's G-StringThis minimal coverage style consists of a thin waistband and a single string that goes between the buttocks and is attached to the pouch in the front. |
Men's ThongA thong has a waistband with a piece of fabric (as opposed to a string) that goes between the buttocks and is attached to the back, offering slightly more coverage than a G-string. |
Mercerized CottonCotton that has been treated with sodium hydroxide to give it a slick texture and lustrous appearance. |
MicrofiberA smooth, stretchy fabric made from extremely fine filaments. Because microfiber is so lightweight and breathable, it's used to make a variety of garments, from bras to boxer briefs. |
Mid RiseA term used to describe styles of underwear that fall at or about your natural waistline. |
Minimal CoverageA term used across the sexes to describe underwear that doesn't provide any rear coverage, such as a thong or G-string. |
Minimizer BraA minimizer bra reduces the bust profile by redistributing breast tissue toward the underarm and center front of each cup. This smoother silhouette makes it easier to wear button down shirts without gapping in the front. |
ModalA natural fabric made from the cellulose fibers of beech trees. Modal is soft and silky to the touch, and more absorbent than cotton, making it a favorite underwear material for both men and women. |
Moderate Compression (shapewear)This level of compression feels snug and supportive, an actually yields a dramatic difference. It provides a sculpting effect that looks like you're sucking it all in (without the discomfort of actually doing so). It won't reduce you by an entire size, but the compression rearranges a few things from your midriff through your thighs for a slimmer, more slender appearance. Comfortable enough for everyday. |
Moisture-wickingA term used to describe a fabric's tendency to draw moisture away from the skin, thus reducing dampness, rubbing and odor. Moisture wicking fabrics are commonly used in athletic style underwear and socks. |
Molded Cups (bra)A molded cup is made by heat-shaping a piece of fabric over a breast-shaped mold in order to take that shape. Molded cups can be both seamless and seamed, and when foam padding is added, it becomes a contour bra. |
Muffin TopA slang term applied to the bulge that falls over the top of pants or shapewear that are too tight. Wearing the proper size can eliminate much of the muffin top, and going for a high-waisted shapewear piece can smooth it over altogether. |
NegligeeA flowing lingerie robe made from a delicate fabric like silk or rayon with lace or ruffled adornment. A vestige of classic French lingerie, women nowadays cover themselves up with a negligee before getting dressed. |
No Show (sock height)A sock that fits below the ankle and does not show when wearing shoes. |
Nursing BraDesigned for the comfort of the new mother, the nursing bra features cups that can be flapped down to easily allow the mother to breast feed. Nursing bras nowadays range from simple, basic designs to luxurious lace varieties. |
NylonA family of synthetic fabrics made from strong, resilient fibers. Also known as polyamide. |
Organic CottonOrganic cotton is cultivated using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems restore and maintain soil fertility, minimize the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers and build biologically diverse agriculture. |
Over the Calf (men's sock height)Socks that rise up to just below the knee. |
Package BoostingUnderwear that makes your package look bigger than it is. This enhanced effect can be achieved a variety of ways, ranging from padding to support slings and hoops that lift your goods into a more prominent position. See also: Profile Enhancing |
Padded (bra cup)expand upon light padding, graduated padding, bump pads |
PantyhoseA garment that combines both panty and stockings into a one piece waist-high garment. This smooth look eliminates panty lines. |
Petite Figure (bra)A bra specially designed with smaller proportions for smaller busted women with narrow back measurements. Modifications include straps that angle inward to prevent slipping off the narrow shoulder frame. |
Pima CottonOne of the finest grades of cotton in the world, ranked just after Egyptian and Supima cottons. It features long, luxurious white vegetable fibers from the cotton plant grown in the southwest United States by the Pima Indians. |
PipingA decorative touch added to garments, where a narrow fold of fabric in a contrasting color is sewn into the seam. |
Plunge (bra)Plunge bras feature deep cut necklines that reveal more decollatage for a sexier look. With a deep front (plunge front), angled cups and a thin center gore, these bras create the appearance of increased cleavage. |
Plus Size (aka Full Figure)A category of garments and intimates that are specially designed with larger proportions to better fit women with above-average bust and waist measurements. Examples include bras with modified padding, increased support and wider shoulder straps. Plus Size typically includes women who fall into bra sizes 38DD and above, and clothing size 14 and up. Plus Size is also known as Full Figured, which applies to a woman's overall shape and should not be confused with full-busted, which can include women of any body shape with an above-average bust measurement. |
PolyamideA family of synthetic fabrics made from strong, resilient fibers. Also known as nylon. |
PolyesterA synthetic knit fabric noted for its soft feel, durability and versatility of use. |
PowermeshA lightweight, gauze-like fabric that maintains its rigidity as it stretches. Because of its durability and lightweight feel, Powermesh is often used to line bra wings. |
Profile EnhancingUnderwear that makes your package look bigger than it is. This enhanced effect can be achieved a variety of ways, ranging from padding to support slings and hoops that lift your goods into a more prominent position. See also: Package Boosting |
Push Up BraBras that create the appearance of enhanced cleavage by using angled cups and padding. Most push up bras feature fiberfill graduated padding along the bottom, but other types include oil, water and gel-filled pads. The pads are also known as cookies. |
Queen Sizesee Plus Size |
Racerback BraThis bra features straps that curve away from your shoulder blades to form one center strap down the back. This gives the bra exceptional support and a sporty feeling. Racerback bras are perfect for wearing under tank tops and sleeveless tops. |
RayonA man made fabric made from the natural fibers of cotton, wood chips, bamboo, modal and a variety of other vegetable matters. Rayon is soft, absorbs moisture well, and has an attractive luster, making it an ideal fabric for a variety of uses. |
Rear Seam (underwear)This seam, sewn into the underwear down the rear center portion, causes the shape of the underwear to trace that of your body, creating definition and preventing "unibutt." |
Regular Fit (t-shirts)A term used to describe the relatively loose, relaxed fit of a t-shirt. |
Reinforced Heel (sock)A heel that has been strengthened with extra knitting to lend more durability. |
RiseThe measurement between the waistband and the first horizontal seam of a panty (at the crotch). Average rises are around 9" and low-rise starts at about 7". Rise is also a term used to describe where an underwear waistband falls in relation to the waistband of your pants. |
Sandal ToeA seamless toe that is not reinforced with extra layers of fabric or yarn, so your toes look more natural when worn with open toed shoes. |
SatinThis traditional fabric has a silky, lustrous finish. The long, interlaced yarns of the fabric have no visible pattern, creating a smooth shiny surface. |
Seamed Cup (bras)Seamed cup bras offer more support and shaping than seamless cups because the seams determine the cup's exact shape and size, and offer semi-rigid support. |
Seamless (bra cup)Seamless bras keep a smooth appearance under clothes, and are great for wearing with clingy tops and thin fabrics. Also known as a T-shirt bra, a bra is considered seamless if it is constructed without seamed cups. A bra may still be considered seamless if seams are present in other parts of the bra. |
Seamless (underwear)A term applied to underwear that does not feature side seams that could potentially cause visible panty line along the hips. |
Seamless Front (shapewear)High waisted shapewear pieces with no seam on the front. This is especially important when wearing tight, clingy dresses, as front seams can show up as bumps. |
Seamless Toe (sock)Toes made from a continuous piece of knit fabric, so as not to cause any bumps or bunching inside the toe area. |
Semi-opaqueHosiery that is moderately translucent but not completely transparent can be described as semi-opaque. The denier of these styles usually falls mid-range between high and low. |
Shaping Undershirt (men's)A shirt made from stretchy material that smoothes over torso, abs and waistline to promote a slimmer appearance. Shaping undershirts are designed to be worn under clothing and remain undetectable. |
Shapwear (aka Shaper)Garments worn under clothing that smooth over skin, resulting in a slimmer, more toned appearance. Shapewear pieces range from control panties to full-coverage bodysuits. The goal of shapewear is to provide a smoother foundation shape while remaining undetectable under clothes. Shapewear garments include tummy shapers, leg shapers, waist shapers, shaping bodysuits and thigh shapers. |
Shelf BraTechnically, a bra that features a shelf-like support under the breasts but almost no coverage. However, "shelf bra" is used to describe the built-in bras inside some tank tops. |
ShortyA full coverage panty version of a man's trunk style underwear. Also known as boyshorts, they usually fall at a low rise fit and the leg length ranges from square cut to a 1 inch inseam. Their length and comfort lend them to be great everyday underwear, as well as a common lounge option. |
SilkOne of the finest textiles in the world because of its natural softness and radiant sheen, silk is created by the silkworm in the construction of its cocoon. Silk has the natural ability to regulate temperature, keeping you cool in hot weather and warm in cool weather. |
Slim Fit (t-shirts)A term used to describe a t-shirt that fits more closely to the body. Slim fit t-shirts make ideal undershirts, as they don't bunch under shirts. |
Slimming (shapewear)A sculpting effect that looks like you're sucking it all in (without the discomfort of actually doing so). It won't reduce you by an entire size, but the compression rearranges a few things from your midriff through your thighs for a slimmer, more slender appearance. Comfortable enough for everyday. |
Smoothing (shapewear)These form-fitting pieces glide over your skin to smooth over your lumps and bumps. The result is a more flattering, toned silhouette. Your body becomes a smoother palette and clothes will fit better. |
Soft Cup BraBras that have no underwire in the construction. Most maternity and sports bras are soft cup bras. The lack of underwire doesn't equal a lack of support, in fact, there are many unique construction soft cup bras that offer comparable support to underwire bras. Some women with larger back sizes may prefer soft cup bras because they may have difficulty finding an underwire that fits comfortably. |
Soy (fabric)Soy fabric is an environmentally friendly fiber made from tofu manufacturing waste. Soy protein is liquefied and extruded into long, unbroken fibers that are then cut and processed like other spinning fibers. It's incredibly soft and feels similar to cashmere. |
Spacer FoamSpacer Foam isn't actually a foam at all. It's a three-layer knit with pockets of air sandwiched in-between the layers. It's super cushiony, moisture wicking and lightweight. Spacer Foam is commonly used to line bra cups, offering great support in a lightweight, non-bulky feeling as well as in the straps of sports bras. |
SpandexA synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. Also known as elastane and Lycra Elastane. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, making it an ideal addition to lingerie fabric blends to yield a perfect fit. Spandex is frequently added to cotton to help the garment retain its shape. |
Sports Bra (aka Compression Bra)Facts are facts and it has been proven that exercise, especially high-impact exercise, damages breast tissue and ligaments, causing them to sag. A good sport bra can reduce breast movement during exercise up to 50%. Sport bras tend to be made from a stretch microfiber that wicks moisture with seamless cups, non-stretch straps, and often a racerback design. For smaller cup sizes, pullover compression style bras are enough, but for larger cup sizes, more sophisticated engineering is in order. |
Stockings (hosiery)A knitted, close-fitting hosiery covering for the foot and leg. |
Stretch CottonCotton fabric that has been blended with a small amount of spandex (elastane) that helps to retain the shape of the garment without sacrificing softness. |
String BikiniA super lean cut bikini that features a front and back panel, joined together on the sides by a thin elastic string. This low rise style provides minimal rear coverage. |
Support Panels (aka Inner Sling) (bra)A support panel is an inner sling sewn into the cup of a bra to provide additional support. The support panel follows the curve of the cup and can range in size from a small portion on the outside of the cup to the entire circumference of the cup. |
T-Shirt BraA T-shirt bra has seamless cups with light padding so your nipples won't show through. T-shirt bras are the perfect bra to give you a smooth look under clingy tops and lightweight fabrics. |
TactelA type of nylon trademarked by DuPont that's amazingly soft and durable. It is lightweight, versatile, breathable, shape-retentive and easy-to-wash. |
TaglessInstead of a separate piece of fabric sewn onto the garment, tagless items feature a tag that has been ironed onto the garment itself. This reduces rubbing and chafing. |
TangaA panty that fits somewhere between a bikini and a thong. A tanga has narrower back coverage than a traditional panty, but is not as narrow as a thong. |
TencelA man made fabric made from the natural cellulose found in wood pulp, which is processed into a silk-like, delicate fabric. Tencel is smooth and stretchy with a nice luster, making it an ideal fabric for a variety of uses. |
Thigh HighsStockings that just reach the thigh and are held up by elastic bands. |
Thin Elastic WaistbandA thin piece of raw elastic has been sewn into the inner portion of a garment to give it a stretchy quality, helping it hug your body to stay up. |
ThongA thong has a waistband with a piece of fabric (as opposed to a string) that goes between the buttocks and is attached to the back, offering slightly more coverage than a G-string. |
TightsA heavy, opaque one-piece garment from hip to toe worn with leotards for dance, exercise, etc. It is usually made with 40 denier yarn and over and is sometimes made of yarn other than nylon. |
Transforming (shapewear)These garments really trim the fat, sometimes even slimming you down a whole size. Heavy duty fabrics apply compression to the areas you need it most, re-sculpting them to appear flatter. Best worn when you only plan on stunning for a few hours at a time. |
Triangle BraA bra with triangular-shaped cups that are attached to a thin bra base, gathered together like a drawstring. Triangle bras offer the perfect amount of coverage and support for petite to average figures. They may be padded or lined but are generally wire-free. |
Trouser (women's sock)Casual socks made for women that generally reach to the upper calf or just below the knee. |
TrunksSnug fitting underwear that features longer legs than a brief, but shorter than a boxer brief, usually shorter than a 3 1/2 inch inseam. |
UnderwireA sewn-in molded wiring that runs beneath the breast in the bra cups. Underwires help to lift and separate the bustline for enhanced shape and support. While the original underwires were made from wire, they are now made from both metal and plastic. |
Unlined (bra cup)A molded bra cup with nothing in it but the fabric from which it is made. |
ViscoseA man-made knit fabric made from natural cellulose fiber that can be obtained from wood, modal, and bamboo, to name a few. A form of rayon, viscose is soft, absorbs moisture well, and has an attractive luster, making it an ideal fabric for a variety of uses. |
Wings (aka Back Wings)The side panels on a bra that attach the cups to the rear closure and wrap underneath the arms and across the back ribs. |
Wirefree (bra)A term used to describe a bra with cups that do not contain underwires. Most wire-free bras feature an elastic platform on which the bra is made that provides similar support and separation, with a more flexible fit. |
Women's BriefA traditional women's underwear style. Briefs provide full coverage to the hips and buttocks and fall at or just below the navel. |
No glossary terms at this time.
No glossary terms at this time.
No glossary terms at this time.

