Glossary Lingerie A–C | Key Terms, Styles & Fabrics
Glossary Lingerie A–C : A complete lingerie dictionary from Adhesive Bras to Cut & Sew Bras. Glossary Lingerie A–C Learn the meaning of lingerie terms, fabrics, and styles to make confident shopping and styling choices.
Table of Contents – Glossary Lingerie A-C
- Overview & Key Takeaways
- Background: Why a Lingerie Glossary Matters
- A–C Lingerie Terms & Definitions
- Expert Insights & Real Experiences
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion & Next Steps
Overview & Key Takeaways – Glossary Lingerie A-C
- Purpose: Glossary Lingerie A-C To decode lingerie terminology from A–C in a clear, visual way.
- Practical Value: Glossary Lingerie A-C Helps you shop smarter, understand fabric types, and choose the right lingerie styles.
- Coverage: Glossary Lingerie A-C Includes definitions for bras, panties, fabrics, closures, shapewear, and more.
- Extended Learning: See also Glossary Lingerie D–F for the next set of terms.
Background: Why a Lingerie Glossary Matters
Lingerie is more than fabric—it’s a language of design, function, and self-expression. But many terms are confusing or inconsistent. A lingerie terminology guide highlights how brands often use the same words differently. This glossary aligns definitions, helping you understand what you’re buying and wearing—whether it’s a corset, bralette, or boyshort.

A–C Lingerie Terms & Definitions
Below is a structured breakdown of key lingerie terms from A to C. Each term is defined simply, with context when useful.
Adhesive Bra
A backless bra with medical-grade adhesive that sticks directly to the skin. Useful for strapless outfits.
Appliqué
A decorative fabric technique where one piece is stitched on top of another for embellishment.
Babydoll
A short nightgown, often sheer with lace or ribbons. The name comes from the 1956 film Baby Doll. Popular in lingerie fashion for its playful style.
Back Closure
The traditional hook-and-eye fastening at the back of most bras, often with 2–3 rows for adjustment.
Back Fat
A bulging effect around straps or bands when a bra doesn’t fit well. Wider straps or leotard backs can help smooth this.
Balconette
A demi-style bra with a straight neckline and upward lift, designed to create an open, lifted bust shape.
Bamboo Fabric
A breathable, moisture-wicking textile made from bamboo pulp. Naturally insulating and eco-friendly.
Bandeau Bra
A strapless band-style bra, usually best for smaller busts and casual wear.
Basque
A longline lingerie garment extending to the hips, often with garters. Sometimes confused with a bustier.
Bikini Panty
A mid-coverage panty style with waistband at the hips. Comfortable under heavier fabrics.
Body Briefer
A shapewear piece resembling a one-piece swimsuit, designed to smooth the torso.
Boyshort
A panty inspired by men’s briefs, offering fuller coverage and often eliminating panty lines.
Bralette
A wire-free, lightly structured bra, often sized S–L rather than by cup. Ideal for lounging and layering.
Brazilian Panty
A style that offers more coverage than a thong but less than a full brief, cut in a V-shape across the back.
Camisole
A sleeveless lingerie top, often with lace or straps, worn as undergarment or outerwear layering piece.
Corset
A structured garment with boning, laces, and sometimes garters. Similar to a waist cincher but typically more supportive and shaping.
Cuban Heel
A stocking style with reinforced heel and back seam, known for its vintage appeal.
Cut & Sew Bra
A bra with multiple fabric panels sewn together for enhanced support and shaping. Popular in lace styles.
This glossary includes dozens more terms across A–C, from Adhesive Bras to Control Tops. Glossary Lingerie A-C Each entry helps decode fashion language into practical shopping knowledge.
Expert Insights & Real Experiences – Glossary Lingerie A-C
Many women discover lingerie terms by accident—such as buying a “balconette” expecting full coverage, only to find it sits much lower on the bust. Similarly, shoppers often confuse a bustier with a basque. As lingerie fitters often note, understanding these definitions makes bra shopping easier and reduces returns. Glossary Lingerie A-C My personal experience? Switching from bikini to boyshort panties eliminated panty lines under fitted dresses—a small but life-changing shift.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a balconette and a balcony bra?
A balconette has a straight-across neckline, while a balcony bra usually features wider-set straps and more seams for shaping.
Is a bralette supportive enough for larger busts?
Most bralettes are designed for smaller to medium busts, but some structured lace bralettes now offer DD+ support.
What makes bamboo fabric popular in lingerie?
Bamboo is breathable, moisture-wicking, and naturally soft, making it ideal for underwear and sleepwear.
Are corsets and bustiers the same thing?
No. A corset is more structured with lacing and shaping, while a bustier is softer and often decorative.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Lingerie language doesn’t need to be confusing. With this A–C glossary, you can approach lingerie shopping with clarity and confidence. Glossary Lingerie A-C Explore fabrics, styles, and fits that suit your body and mood. For more definitions, continue with Glossary Lingerie D–F.
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