Glossary Lingerie D–F | Key Terms, Fabrics & Styles Explained
Snippet: Explore Glossary Lingerie D-F lingerie terminology from D–F, including demi cups, fishnets, foam-lined bras, and French knickers. Glossary Lingerie D-F This glossary helps you understand the meaning, history, and usage of popular lingerie fabrics and styles. Perfect for fashion enthusiasts, shoppers, and anyone curious about lingerie design.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Lingerie Terms D–F
- Bra Styles & Support Features
- Hosiery & Stocking Fabrics
- Materials & Textile Innovations
- French Influence on Lingerie
- FAQs About Lingerie D–F
Overview of Lingerie Terms D–F
This glossary builds on our Glossary Lingerie A–C, covering lingerie definitions from D to F. Whether you’re shopping for shapewear, hosiery, or bras, knowing these terms can make your choices easier and more confident.
Bra Styles & Support Features – Glossary Lingerie D-F
- Décolleté: A low-cut neckline or bra designed to emphasize cleavage. The term also refers to the upper chest area above the bustline.
- Demi Cup: Also called a balconette, this bra style reveals the upper part of the breasts with wide-set straps, ideal for low or square necklines.
- Encapsulation: A sports bra design where each breast is supported in its own cup for shape and comfort.
- Enhancer: Bras with padding or built-in inserts, like the original Wonderbra, to create a fuller bustline.
- Foam Cup & Foam Lined Cup: Bras with foam padding for smooth shaping, modesty, and comfort without bulk.
- Full Cup: Offers maximum coverage and support, preventing spillage and creating a natural shape.
- Full Support: Features such as wide straps, side wings, and multi-hook closures for enhanced stability.
- Fully Adjustable Strap: Straps that can be shortened without hardware obstructions, ideal for petite frames.
Hosiery & Stocking Fabrics – Glossary Lingerie D-F
- Fashion Tights: Premium hosiery with bold designs and heavier denier, offering both durability and statement style.
- Fishnet: A netted hosiery style inspired by fishermen’s nets, popular in dance, fashion, and costume wear.
- Fence Net: A larger net pattern resembling chain link fences, often used in bold stocking designs.
- Finishing Hole: A detail in fully-fashioned stockings allowing for better fit and comfort on the thigh.
- Flat Knit: Stockings created by knitting flat and sewing a back seam—common in vintage full-fashioned hosiery.
- French Heel: A pointed heel design on seamed stockings, also called the European Heel.
- Fully Fashioned Stockings: Authentic 1940s–50s style stockings, made on flat knit machines with iconic back seams and welts (hosiery brands still carry them today).
Materials & Textile Innovations
- DriLayer: Moisture-wicking fabric technology developed by Moving Comfort.
- Elastane: The European term for spandex, branded as Lycra or Dorlastan.
- Foundations: A historical term for shapewear (history of shapewear), emphasizing structure and support.
- Frastaglio: An antique Florentine embroidery technique, used in luxury lingerie.
- French Terry: A soft knit fabric with a smooth face and looped back, used in loungewear.
- FreshFX: A Lycra-based fabric technology designed for freshness, comfort, and breathability.
French Influence on Lingerie – Glossary Lingerie D-F
France has shaped lingerie culture for centuries. Terms like French Knicker (looser boyshorts without elastic back), French Cut (high-cut briefs), and French Heel stockings highlight its influence. Even today, French lingerie remains a global standard for elegance and craftsmanship.
FAQs About Glossary Lingerie D-F
What is the difference between a demi cup and a balconette bra?
Both expose the upper breast, but balconette bras usually have more horizontal cup edges, while demi cups can be slightly rounded.
Are fishnets and fence nets the same?
No. Fishnets have smaller, tighter weaves, while fence nets have a bolder, wide-open net pattern.
What does “full figure” mean in lingerie?
Full figure typically refers to women wearing bras in sizes 32–36DD and 38–42C-DD+, with bras designed for extra support.
What are foundations in lingerie?
Foundations is a vintage term for shapewear, referring to structured undergarments that shaped the body before modern stretchy designs.
Final Thoughts
From décolleté bras to fully fashioned stockings, lingerie terms between D–F reveal a fascinating mix of history, textile technology, and French influence. If you enjoyed this section, don’t miss our Glossary Lingerie A–C for earlier terms. Share this glossary with friends or bookmark it for your next lingerie shopping trip!
