Glossary Lingerie T–Z : Complete Guide to Terms & Styles
Looking for a clear and stylish reference for lingerie terms? This Glossary Lingerie T–Z breaks down everything from T-shirt bras to woven fabrics, so you can shop, style, and wear lingerie with confidence. Perfect for beginners, enthusiasts, or anyone who loves fine details.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the meaning of lingerie terms from T–Z.
- Discover the differences between styles like tanga, thongboy, and torsette.
- Learn fabric and construction details that influence comfort and fit.
- Explore shapewear terms like waist nippers for body contouring.
- Connect this guide with the previous Glossary Lingerie P–S for a full alphabet reference.
Table of Contents
- Bras & Cup Styles
- Panty Styles
- Shapewear & Structure
- Fabrics & Finishes
- Bridal & Occasion Wear
- FAQ: Lingerie Glossary T–Z
Bras & Cup Styles
- T-shirt bra: Seamless molded cups with thin foam for smoothness under tight tops.
- Triangle bra: Triangle-shaped cups, often wireless, with minimal coverage and light support.
- Underwire bra: Bras with sewn-in wires that lift and shape the bustline.
- Wide-away bra: Straps set far apart to suit wide necklines.
- Transversal seam: A rounded seam design in bra cups for natural shaping.
Panty Styles
- Tanga: A mid-style between bikini and thong, with moderate back coverage.
- Tap pant: Short, loose-fitting panties, often paired with camisoles.
- Teddy: A one-piece garment combining camisole and panty, worn as lingerie or sleepwear.
- Thong: Narrow strip at the back, minimizing panty lines.
- Thongboy: A hybrid between a boyshort and thong for comfort with minimal lines.
Shapewear & Structure
- Torsette: Shapewear leaving the bust uncovered, allowing wear of your own bra.
- Torsolette: Structured garment with boning, often with lace-up or hook closures; also called a “merry widow.”
- Tummy shaper: Another name for control briefs, designed to slim the waist.
- Waist nipper: Boned garment for waist shaping, closing with hooks in the front.
- Wing: The side/back panel of a bra that stabilizes and balances the front structure.
Fabrics & Finishes
- Tights: Opaque or semi-opaque hosiery with higher denier than pantyhose.
- Ultra-sheer: Fine hosiery under 8 denier, offering light transparency.
- Velour: Plush, soft fabric with a dense pile.
- Woven: Fabrics made on a loom, including chiffon, satin, and tweed, with little natural stretch.
- UPF: A fabric rating that measures ultraviolet protection, similar to SPF in sunscreen.
Bridal & Occasion Wear
- Trousseau: A bride’s collection of garments for her wedding and honeymoon.
- Torsolette: A structured bridal lingerie favorite, offering a sculpted fit beneath gowns.
FAQ: Lingerie Glossary T–Z
Q1: What’s the difference between a tanga and a thong?
A thong offers minimal coverage with a thin strip at the back, while a tanga provides slightly more fabric and comfort.
Q2: Why choose a torsette over regular shapewear?
A torsette lets you wear your own bra, avoiding compression of the bust while still shaping your torso.
Q3: Are underwire bras uncomfortable?
Modern underwire bras use flexible materials that balance support and comfort. Fit is key to avoiding discomfort.
Q4: What’s a trousseau today?
Traditionally a bridal collection, but today it may include lingerie curated for weddings, honeymoons, or anniversaries.
Final Thoughts
This Glossary Lingerie T–Z gives you the confidence to recognize styles, fabrics, and functions across the lingerie world. Pair it with our Glossary Lingerie P–S for the full alphabet. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or curating a lingerie wardrobe, this guide makes sure you’ll never be lost in translation.
Share this guide with a friend or partner who loves lingerie as much as you do!
