Type of Lingerie | A Clothing Manufacturer’s Guide to Fabrics, Costs & Brand Success

A luxury wardrobe without matching undergarments is boring. We have selected 10 essential lingerie items that every woman should own. Every woman can gain confidence and elegance from lingerie, from exquisite lace to luscious silk. Discover the top 10 types of lingerie for every occasion. In this blog, you will discover the different types of lingerie, the best fabrics used in their creation, and the estimated cost of bringing them to market. You’ll also learn how professional clothing manufacturers can help you turn your lingerie business idea into a thriving brand.

About Lingerie

Lingerie is a combination of functional and elegant intimate clothing. Popular lingerie types include bras, which support and shape the bust, and panties, which provide comfort and coverage in briefs and thongs. Bralettes are more relaxed than lingerie sets, which match bras and panties.  Bustiers, which are often worn as outerwear, tighten the waist and emphasize the bust. Body shapers smooth and contour the body for a sleek undergarment look. 

As an undergarment or alone, camisoles pair well with shorts or jeans. Bodysuits are seamless top-and-bottom for a sleek fit. For sleeping or relaxing, chemises are loose, slip-on clothes composed of lightweight cotton. Babydolls are short, sheer nightgowns with lace and delicate accents that are flirty and charming. Lingerie have varied functions, so women can choose the one that best suits them. 

10 Different Types of Lingerie

Lingerie is easy to incorporate into any part of life, with styles ranging from functional to sensual. The correct lingerie can enhance the fit and style of your outerwear. Shopping for and wearing lingerie can be an enjoyable way to pamper yourself. Numerous designs of different lingerie types are available to suit various tastes and situations. Women have more appealing options and can personalize their preferences with this model. These are a few common types of lingerie for women:

1. Chemises

A chemise is a multipurpose essential piece of lingerie that skillfully blends sophistication and allure. Usually falling above the knee, these form-fitting, sleeveless gowns can be worn alone or with a matching robe. Choose a style with satin finishes, lace accents, or opulent fabrics if you want a chemise with an added dash of glamour.

Favorite Option: Natori, Elegant silk & lace chemise

The Elegant silk & lace chemise, an iconic, luxurious chemise from their bestselling line, recognizes the individuality of each woman’s physique. The chemise’s back straps are completely adjustable and detachable, so you may tailor the fit to your tastes. You can build a look that fits your body type and style, whether you like a crossed-over or a traditional straight back.

2. Bralette and Wire-Free Styles

Bralette and wire-free versions are becoming more and more popular, and they are showing up as outerwear under white shirts and blazers for a stylish, current look. They are meant to be seen and are frequently sheer and lacy.

Favorite Option: Wacoal, Comfortable Wire-free Bra

The bralette can give a woman a sense of self-assurance, seduction, and effortless style. It is equally sensual and classy, with a sleek satin design. You won’t want to hide this style under your clothing, especially when accessorized with striking, opulent gold hardware. To achieve a high-end look, wear it underneath a blazer.

3. Camisoles with Lace

Lace camisoles give your lingerie collection a delicate, feminine touch. They can be worn as fashionable layering pieces or as undergarments. For a comfortable and customizable fit, choose camisoles with adjustable straps and elaborate lace decoration.

Favorite Option: Hanky Panky, delicately patterned lace camisoles, and satin camisoles

The delicately patterned lace camisole is a stunning item that exudes a hint of everyday refinement while igniting your confidence and embracing your sensuality. With our simple, wire-free soft cup design, you may experience unparalleled comfort.

4. Brazil Briefs 

Brazilian lingerie strikes the ideal mix between sexy and cozy. They are a cheeky addition to any lingerie collection thanks to their appealing design, which offers more coverage than a thong but less than a bikini brief.

Favorite Option: Lounge, Buttery-Soft Brazilian Briefs

With cheeky coverage and sleek detailing down the back, the Lounge buttery-soft Brazilian briefs are one of our most flattering underwear and are ideal for both special events and daily wear. It’s wicked and lovely, with a mesh back and adorable bows.

5. Suspenders Belts

Garter belts, another name for suspender belts, give your lingerie set a hint of classic elegance. They provide a sensual appearance while holding up stockings. To guarantee a flawless silhouette and a comfortable fit, pick suspender belts with secure clasps and adjustable straps.

Favorite Option: Journelle, Luxury Designer Suspender Belts

The Journelle suspender belt is the ideal final touch to create an effortlessly sexy look, so complete your enticing ensemble with it. It is intended to enthrall and make an impression. You’ll adore the vintage lace look, which not only gives it a luxurious touch but also guarantees comfort and flexibility so you can move with confidence and ease.

6. The Baby Doll

A babydoll style is a loose-fitting, short-sleeved, or sleeveless negligee. It is frequently used as sleepwear and occasionally features cups that accentuate your cleavage. It is attached to a loose-fitting skirt that is typically between the upper thigh and the belly button. A very elegant addition to your underwear collection, it is occasionally sheer and made of lightweight silk, chiffon lace, or mesh.

Favorite Option: Victoria’s Secret, Romantic Babydoll 

Feel extra gorgeous in Victoria’s Secret’s romantic babydoll nighties in satin, lace, and sheer fabrics. For a fun revelation, the underwire cup features a surprise opening with beautiful lace accents. The sheer tulle skirt, however, provides a seductive glimpse of the lower body. 

7. Lingerie Sets

Purchasing a matching lingerie set gives your collection refinement and coherence. Seek sets that come with a bra and underwear made of comparable materials and styles. You will feel more put together and confident in this well-coordinated ensemble.

Favorite Option: Adore Me, a wide range of fashionable, comfortable lingerie sets

The Adore Me wide range of fashionable, comfortable lingerie sets will elevate your lingerie collection. For those looking to enhance their cleavage with a combination of lace and an additional 200% lift, this matching set is a must-have. This lingerie set is an essential addition to your collection because the stretch lace is comfortable and soft enough to wear every day.

8. Loungewear

For leisurely moments at home, comfortable loungewear is a must. Having cozy options for relaxation is essential, whether it’s a chic pajama set or a cozy loungewear combo. For the utmost in comfort, choose loungewear sets or separates composed of seamless or soft materials like cotton and modal.

Favorite Option: Free People, Loungewear

The incredibly comfy, seamless stretch cloth is used to create the matching Free People loungewear. Wear it beneath a blazer for a polished look or store it in your lingerie drawer for comfortable lounging. It comes in black and white.

9. Contour Bras in Black

A timeless essential that provides both support and adaptability is a black contour bra. The black color guarantees compatibility with various outfits, and the contour cups offer a rounded form. To get a smooth and attractive silhouette, look for a bra that fits perfectly, has adjustable straps, and has a pleasant underwire.

Favorite Option: Skims Seamless Inclusive Contour Bras

Enjoy the exquisite fit, support, and delicate accents that make the Skims inclusive contour bras a truly remarkable addition to your underwear collection. With this gorgeous bra, enjoy unquestionable style, comfort, and natural uplift. You’ll adore the delicate neckline, which is embellished with a delicate scallop edge of lace that gives the bra a hint of elegance and luxury.

10. Lace Thongs

A lace thong is an essential piece for every lingerie collection since it blends comfort and style. It provides a smooth appearance beneath form-fitting apparel with little covering. Look for thongs crafted from delicate lace and sporting a comfy waistband for a touch of luxury in your everyday lingerie.

Favorite Option: Hanky Panky, the iconic Signature Lace Thong

With its elegant features, delicate lace, and cozy thong form, Hanky Panky’s Signature Lace Thong is a chic and contemporary design. You should add this item to your collection of lingerie. For all-day comfort, the thong back is composed of cozy stretch mesh. It offers a smooth, comfortable fit that is ideal for daily use.

What Are the Most Common Fabrics Used in Lingerie?

Some of the most widely used textiles in the lingerie business today are the five materials listed below. To learn more about the world of lingerie fabrics and their applications, continue reading.

Satin

Fabric with a satin weave is called satin. To put it simply, a satin is woven with several threads traveling in one direction, crossing on top of one another. This process produces a glossy, smooth sheen and captures more light. In addition to silk, polyester, rayon, and even cotton can be used to make satin. (Satin-woven fabrics with less sheen are typically referred to as “sateen” and are composed of shorter fibers like cotton and rayon.) 

With the inclusion of elastane, also referred to as spandex, it can even stretch. Why is satin such a popular material for underwear? It’s lovely, all right! Satin is also ideal for clothing that sits near your skin since it has a smoother hand than plain woven fabric. It is present in practically every kind of lingerie item, from the body of a chemise to the cup of a bra.

Mesh

Any fabric with gaps between its strands is referred to as mesh fabric. Hexagonal mesh is frequently used in lingerie. This fabric, which gets its name from the six-sided form of its negative space, can be used for a variety of purposes, such as the elastic body of a pair of sheer panties, a stiff tulle trim for a nightgown, or a rigid sheer basis for embroidery.

Nylon is frequently used to make lingerie mesh, with elastane added for stretch. The fabric’s softness or stiffness is affected by the fiber amount, yarn distance, and finish. Powermesh is a robust hex mesh that is frequently used as an interlining for bras, as well as in activewear and shapewear, where additional compression is necessary.

Lace

One of the most recognizable lingerie materials is lace. The delicate nature of lace makes it ideal for lingerie, whether it is used as a whole fabric or as a small trim. Almost all contemporary lingerie lace is machine-made, usually from nylon, with elastane added for elasticity when needed. For a heavier hand, cotton fibers or even metallic threads are occasionally used.

Although floral or botanical designs are typically used to create lace, geometric patterns have gained popularity recently. It can be identified by looking for materials that consist of free space and decorative themes. A lingerie design can be transformed from plain to gorgeous using even cheap lace. If you want to understand more about lace, Karolina’s post delves further into the many kinds of lace and their manufacturing processes.

Jersey

You may only think of jersey as a t-shirt fabric, but it’s also used in lingerie. Even your finer pairs undoubtedly have a cotton jersey gusset inside, and the basic underwear in your drawer is probably composed of jersey knit. The jersey knit fabric has a smooth front, but if you look closely at the back, you can see the tiny “loops” of the knit.

Almost any fiber can be used to make jersey. Wool and silk are less prevalent than cotton, polyester, and rayon. For added stretch, the majority of lingerie jerseys contain elastane in one form or another. And there are two reasons why a jersey is ideal for lingerie. First of all, it’s easy to fit and flexible enough to move with the body. Secondly, it’s an excellent “base” cloth for an entertaining print.

Microfiber

Microfiber fabric has an incredibly soft hand because it is composed of extremely thin synthetic strands. Nowadays, microfiber textiles are widely used in many sectors of the economy; however, lingerie-grade microfiber fabrics are usually thin knit. They are often constructed of rayon, polyester, or nylon with elastane added for elasticity. 

Because fabric feels light and airy on the skin and wicks away moisture, microfiber is frequently used for underwear and sportswear. It is also present in incredibly soft and slinky nightwear, loungewear, and undergarments. Your favorite seamless underwear? Most likely, it’s microfiber. Additionally, t-shirt bras are frequently made with this fabric for a smooth finish.

What is the Startup Cost for Launching a Small Lingerie Brand?

Several variables, such as location, store size, and inventory needs, might affect the initial expenditure required for an intimate type of female lingerie business. Startup expenditures for boutique lingerie stores in busy cities, for example, can approach $150,000 or more. A smaller personal clothing store in a less expensive market, on the other hand, might need more than $50,000.

• The lingerie store’s retail area is one of the major expenses. Renewal or interior design costs can raise the total cost by an additional 20% to 30%, and lease agreements for desirable locations frequently fetch premium rates. A key element of the clothing line’s business strategy is investing in a unified store interior design, which improves brand image and helps retain customers.
• Inventory control is yet another significant expense. It costs money up front to keep a wide variety of sizes, lingerie types, and designs in stock. Usually, between 30 and 40 percent of a company’s initial expenditure goes toward buying goods. To further minimize these expenses, bargain with wholesale lingerie suppliers for inventory discounts.
• Employing and training employees at a reasonable cost is crucial to guaranteeing that clients receive individualized attention. Investing in initial training programs for staff members can eventually lead to reduced turnover and increased customer satisfaction.
• Costs associated with marketing and promotion are also critical. A well-considered marketing plan for a lingerie store that incorporates influencer partnerships, social media, and local advertising may need to be implemented with an initial cost of roughly 15%. 

If you choose to launch a lingerie line on a small website instead of a franchise, the cost could vary from $3,000 to $40,000. This budget applies to a store that is 40–50 square meters in size and located in a key area. Furthermore, this budget would apply if the store is not in a mall, much less if it is in a posh neighborhood where rents are high. 

But you must also consider your company’s public service costs and other key factors. The best course of action when taking accounts is to start by directing your budget for six months. In this manner, you’ll have enough inventory to launch your lingerie business. As a result, you won’t find yourself in a bind and unable to generate enough revenue to sustain your store.

How Can Someone Start Their Lingerie Brand or Small Business?

The lingerie market has grown to be quite broad and dynamic, moving beyond conventional materials and styles. As more people embrace diversity and body positivity, the market has changed to accept many products that cater to certain consumer demands. Furthermore, the growth of social media and e-commerce gives new lingerie firms a wider platform to connect with and grow a global following.

1. Lingerie Market Research

Are you thinking about how to start an apparel line? Starting a lingerie business or any business requires market research. If you don’t know what your predecessors and competitors are doing, your business may go awry. To establish a solid database, use surveys, interviews, focus groups, experiments, etc. For impartial thoughts and consensus on various topics, Reddit is a goldmine. SurveyMonkey is wonderful for quick survey creation.

Key Lingerie Trends

Several lingerie trends may affect your brand’s standing. Modern consumers prefer sustainable materials, inclusive sizing, and inventive designs. Modern buyers want underwear that feels luxurious against their skin and matches their ideals, combining beauty and ethics. Thus, those that innovate and meet the diverse requirements of consumers will win over a generation that values authenticity and meaning in their purchases.

Targeting Your Audience

Finding and understanding your target demographic is crucial to building a lingerie business. Do you want to attract millennials interested in sustainable clothes or luxury shoppers who value quality designs? Define your target consumer by researching demographics, preferences, and buying habits. This core phase guides your brand’s style, marketing, and products.

2. Establish Online and Offline Presence

Your firm needs an online and offline presence. This involves choosing a business name, domain, logo, host platform, and more for e-commerce businesses. The duties appear unending, but several free and paid apps on the Internet can help. This process makes e-commerce a popular choice for low-budget enterprises. For brick-and-mortar owners, locating and conducting offline market research is more complex. Their popularity is why many businesses started as online merchants before opening stores.

3. Form a Business and Get Permits

After figuring out the essentials, configure the legal aspects of launching a business. Registration is common for clothing companies, including those that sell lingerie. You might need a seller’s permission and a business license. Please reach out to your local authorities for assistance, as requirements may differ by location. The following business structures are popular:

• Firms include sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations.

Lingerie Brand Business Plan

Your business plan should cover your brand’s objective, target market, competitive research, price strategy, and sales estimates. A well-developed plan can help you get financing or investment by demonstrating your vision and market potential.

Budgeting and Funding Options

Determine your startup costs. Product development, website design, marketing, and inventory costs are examples. Personal savings, small business loans, and angel investors can help you start your firm.

4. Branding a Lingerie Business

Branding is what makes your lingerie line memorable.

Selecting a Unique Brand Name and Logo

Choose a name that speaks to your audience and brand values. A striking logo and meaningful name set the tone for your firm and make a good first impression.

Creating Brand Identity

Brand identity goes beyond a logo. It encompasses your business projects’ style, tone, and visuals. To ensure brand consistency across your website and social media, create a style guide.

5. Your Lingerie Collection Design

Creating a unique collection needs imagination and industry research. Your designs should follow trends while retaining your brand’s character.

Style, Fabric, and Trend Research

Learn about popular lingerie styles, types of fabrics, and trends to inspire your collection. Designs for intimates, activewear, and loungewear should reflect your brand and clientele.

Sustainable Material Choice

Use organic cotton, bamboo, or repurposed lace, as more people value eco-friendly items. Sustainable production can differentiate your business and attract eco-conscious customers.

6. Making Prototypes

Once you have your concepts, make prototypes for a perfect fit, quality, and comfort.

Collaboration with Designers and Pattern Makers

Working with expert designers and pattern makers may realize your concept. In lingerie manufacturing, skilled specialists must ensure attractive and functional design.

Product Comfort and Fit Testing

Fit is key with lingerie. Make sure your prototypes are thoroughly tested for comfort, support, and aesthetics. Well-fitting clothing boosts client satisfaction and repeat business.

7. Setting up Production

The quality and scalability of your lingerie business depend on production.

In-House vs. Outsourced Production

Determine whether to manufacture in-house or outsource. In-house production offers tighter quality control but is pricier, whereas outsourcing offers more experience and lower expenses.

Find a Supplier

Your supplier will be your business partner throughout its lifecycle. Choosing an appropriate one is crucial to staying consistent and avoiding unwanted modifications. Quality should be the top priority for lingerie. Quality is key, whether you dropship or manufacture your products. A good piece will help you price your products correctly over time. Designers should choose manufacturers who can convert their ideas into things. However, starting with a blank canvas necessitates more discussions, experimentation, and refinement until a final product emerges.

8. Building an E-commerce Platform

Online presence is key for any lingerie firm. Finding a reliable web server or website builder is crucial. Thankfully, LogoMaker’s Website Builder uses cutting-edge technology to help your business grow.

Choose the Right Website Platform

Your website platform should meet your technical and financial needs. Platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce make it easier to manage product listings, process payments, and track orders.

Designing a Nice Online Store

Engaging online stores improves consumer satisfaction. Use a straightforward layout, high-quality photos, and product descriptions. Since many online customers use mobile devices, make sure your website is mobile-responsive.

Making Pre-Launch Hype

A well-planned pre-launch strategy builds anticipation. Create buzz and a consumer waiting list via social media teasers, email signups, and influencer collaborations.

Building Your Brand on Social Media

Visually focused brands thrive on Instagram and Pinterest. Create a brand community by sharing behind-the-scenes photos, style tips, and consumer testimonials.

9. Start and Promote Your Business

When everything is ready, launch your store. Physical store launches involve exhausting labor and disruption. Pressing a button may be straightforward for e-commerce sellers. Both company models need a strong advertising effort to flourish. To convert bystanders and tourists into consumers, use an appealing marketing strategy. To attract customers, give discounts, gifts, samples, vouchers, bundles, etc. Lingerie is not perishable; therefore, convincing them to buy may be difficult. You’ll make a favorable impression and get sales leads.

FAQs

Are lingerie items reserved for particular events?

Nope! Even though it’s often associated with romantic occasions, lingerie is suitable for everyday wear. Many ladies like wearing lingerie just for the fun of it.

So how can I pick the correct size?

It’s important to size correctly. To make sure of a proper fit, think about having a professional measure or using a size chart.

Are the underwear comfortable?

Indeed. Many lingerie items incorporate soft materials and thoughtful cuts to ensure comfort.

How should I maintain my underwear?

Wash by hand or in a mild cycle in the washing machine using a lingerie bag. Always adhere to the label’s care recommendations.

Is lingerie pricey?

Lingerie comes in a range of price points. Luxury items can be pricier, but there are also reasonably priced options without sacrificing quality.

Conclusion

When you hear the term “lingerie,” you may immediately think of sexiness, but did you realize that lingerie was mostly worn for modesty and hygiene before the 18th century? With so many different lingerie shapes and colors to choose from, lingerie has become a wardrobe must that is both stylish and confidence-boosting. We have discussed the top ten different kinds of lingerie that every lady ought to own. 

Every lingerie type has its distinct aesthetic, ranging from the sophistication of chemises and corsets to the delicate allure of lace camisoles and tanga briefs. If you’re unsure how to find a garment manufacturer, Tack Apparel is the best place to begin. To make you feel both sexy and comfortable, Tack Apparel provides a large selection of gorgeous bras, underwear, and other collections to start your brand.