Glossary Lingerie P–S: Your Guide to Bras, Fabrics & Shapewear
Glossary Lingerie P-S terminology can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right words helps you shop smarter and choose pieces that fit your needs. This Glossary Lingerie P–S covers essential terms from padded bras to surplice necklines, making lingerie shopping clear, stylish, and stress-free.
Table of Contents – Glossary Lingerie P-S
- Introduction
- Key Takeaways
- Lingerie Terms P–S
- Expert Insight
- Editor’s Pick
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why This Glossary Matters
A lingerie glossary defines terms, garments, and styles in women’s intimate apparel, from bras and panties to sleepwear, hosiery, fabrics, and accessories. The word “lingerie” comes from the French for “linen wear,” once referring to undergarments. Today, it broadly describes fashionable or alluring clothing worn close to the skin.
Introduction – Glossary Lingerie P–S
Glossary Lingerie P-S has its own language, and knowing it transforms the way you shop. From plunge vs. push-up bras to fabrics like soy and spandex, each term helps you choose lingerie that looks and feels right. This glossary continues where our Glossary Lingerie L–O left off, covering P–S.
Key Takeaways – Glossary Lingerie P–S
- Understand lingerie terms from P–S with clear explanations.
- Learn about bras, hosiery, shapewear, and fabrics.
- Use this glossary to shop with confidence and style.
Lingerie Terms P–S
Lingerie terms from P to S cover some of the most practical and stylish elements in a woman’s wardrobe. This section explains everything from bra construction and strap designs to fabrics, shapewear, and hosiery.
Pajamas
Two-piece sleepwear consisting of a top and trousers, designed for maximum comfort. Pajamas come in a wide range of fabrics, from breathable cotton to luxurious silk, making them suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Pantyhose
Sheer hosiery that combines panties and stockings into one garment. Lighter and more delicate than tights, pantyhose provide a sleek, polished look, making them a classic choice for formal and professional outfits.
Peignoir
A sheer, elegant robe often paired with a matching nightgown. Traditionally worn while dressing or lounging, a peignoir adds a touch of glamour and femininity to loungewear.
Plunge Bra
A bra with a deep center gore that enhances cleavage by its cut and design. Unlike push-up bras, plunge bras don’t rely on padding but instead use their angled cup shape, making them ideal for low-cut dresses and tops.
Push-Up Bra
A bra designed with padding at the base of the cups to lift breasts and enhance cleavage. Push-up bras create a fuller, rounded silhouette and are a favorite for pairing with low-cut or figure-hugging outfits.
Racerback
A strap style where the bra straps meet in the back, forming a Y or T shape. Racerback designs prevent slipping straps and are often used in sports bras and supportive lingerie.
Rigid Straps
Non-stretch straps commonly found in full-figure bras. They provide stability and reliable support, especially for women with larger busts.
Rise
The measurement between the waistband and the crotch seam in panties or briefs. Rise determines whether a style is low-rise, mid-rise, or high-rise, directly influencing both fit and comfort.
Seamless Bra
A bra with smooth, molded cups free of visible seams. Designed to disappear under fitted clothing, seamless bras are perfect for t-shirts and bodycon styles.
Shapewear
Lingerie designed to sculpt and contour the body. From waist cinchers to tummy-control briefs and thigh shapers, shapewear helps create a smooth, flattering silhouette under clothing.
Shelf Bra
A minimal-coverage bra that lifts the breasts while leaving the upper part exposed. Often chosen for boudoir wear, it emphasizes both lift and sensuality.
Silicone
A material frequently used in lingerie, particularly in hosiery grip bands and strapless bras. Silicone lining ensures garments stay securely in place without additional support like garters.
Soy Fabric
An eco-friendly, silky material created from soybean byproducts. Known as “vegetable cashmere,” soy fabric combines softness with sustainability, making it a rising choice in lingerie.
Spacer Foam
A lightweight, breathable knit fabric used in molded bras. It provides structure while allowing airflow, offering both comfort and modesty.
Spandex
Also known as elastane in Europe, spandex is a synthetic elastic fiber. Often blended with fabrics like cotton or Lycra, it provides flexibility, stretch, and durability in lingerie and hosiery.
Sports Bra
A bra designed to minimize breast movement during physical activity. Sports bras are available in low, medium, and high-impact options, tailored to different levels of exercise intensity.
Stockings
Traditional thigh-high hosiery worn with garter belts. Unlike tights or hold-ups, stockings offer a vintage, classic appeal and remain popular in both fashion and lingerie.
Strapless Bra
A structured bra designed without straps, usually reinforced with underwire and silicone grip bands. Strapless bras are perfect for off-shoulder outfits and formal wear.
Surplice
A wrap-style neckline or bodice that crosses diagonally to create a deep V-shape. The surplice cut flatters most body types and is common in chemises, lingerie tops, and dresses.
Expert Insight – Glossary Lingerie P-S
Knowing Glossary Lingerie P-S terminology empowers your shopping choices. One client shared that learning the difference between plunge and push-up bras transformed how she dressed for evenings out. Similarly, understanding breathable fabrics like soy and spacer foam made her everyday lingerie far more comfortable.
Editor’s Pick
Passion Lingerie Strap Set Meggy
This bold set features adjustable straps and daring cutouts, making it both playful and supportive. Ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with lingerie that balances comfort and seduction.
Frequently Asked Questions – Glossary Lingerie P-S
What is the difference between a plunge and push-up bra?
A plunge bra creates cleavage through its cut, while a push-up bra uses padding to lift and enhance bust size.
Are soy and Lycra fabrics good for lingerie?
Yes. Soy fabric is eco-friendly and smooth, while Lycra (spandex) adds elasticity and durability.
What’s the best bra for support?
Full-figure seamed bras with powernet or rigid straps provide the strongest support for larger busts.
How does shapewear work?
Shapewear uses compression panels and design cuts to contour the body, smoothing problem areas under clothing.
Are strapless bras reliable?
Yes, modern strapless bras use silicone bands and structured cups for secure, comfortable wear.
Why This Glossary Matters
The Glossary Lingerie P–S brings clarity to lingerie shopping by breaking down essential terms. Whether you’re exploring lingerie terminology from T–Z or looking for your next favorite bra, this guide helps you choose styles and fabrics that fit your lifestyle and body beautifully. Save this glossary as your quick reference whenever lingerie language feels confusing.
