When you give someone a gift, do you leave it in the cardboard box it came in? Or do you wrap it in shiny paper and top it with a bow? 

There's no shame in skipping the wrapping paper if you're pressed for time — it's the thought that counts, after all. But most people take a few extra steps to make a gift look great. Why? Because anticipation is almost as fun as the thing itself.

Women’s lingerie is like gift wrap. Teasing your partner with a mix of bare skin and a lace bra, chiffon babydoll, or silk tap shorts will drive them wild with anticipation, leaving just enough to the imagination that they can't wait to get their hands on what's inside.

But here’s the thing: When you put on a decadent bustier or garter belt, you're not just doing it for a partner. You're doing it to feel sexy, seductive, and powerful — even when there's no one else around.

Not sure what type of lingerie is right for you or what the heck a teddy is? It's just a question of learning about different lingerie styles and finding the options that maximize your confidence.

What is lingerie, exactly?

Lingerie is a category of underwear that includes garments designed to be sexy. This includes bras, sleepwear, and lightweight robes made from stretchy or decorative fabrics like silk, satin, and lace. It’s most common in womenswear, but anyone can have a little fun in a thong or garter.

Lingerie might seem like a modern invention, but it's been around since the late 19th century, when designers began creating corsets, bras, and camisoles to accentuate a woman’s curves. Although they were once considered a luxury because of expensive fabrics like silk, the development of rayon and other artificial fibers in the 1920s gave rise to more accessible items. 

A lingerie revival led by 1970s designers like Janet Reger, followed by the rise of brands like Victoria's Secret in the 1990s, further popularized bras and lingerie. Now, these undergarments are symbols of luxury, eroticism, and personal style​​.

10 flattering lingerie styles

When shopping for intimates, don’t feel constrained by a guide that tries to prescribe the right lingerie for your body type. What matters most is how you feel while wearing it.

Let’s take a closer look at 10 of the top types of lingerie.

1. Babydoll

Delicate, flowy, and romantic, a babydoll is a great choice if you want to add a touch of innocence to your allure. Most babydolls are short, sleeveless nightgowns made from luxurious fabrics like silk or chiffon, with formed cups and a loose-fitting skirt.

2. Bodystocking

Looking to make a statement? Bodystockings are a bold, full-body option designed to accentuate every curve. They can be sheer, opaque, or a combination of the two, often featuring patterns or strategic cut-outs to enhance your body's natural shape.

3. Bra and panty sets

The best types of bras aren’t just supportive; they’re transformative. A well-matched bra and panty set can be a simple yet powerful way to feel put-together and confident. From lace bralettes paired with hipster panties to balconette bras with matching thongs, there’s no limit to the sexy looks you can create. 

4. Chemise

Comfortable yet elegant, chemises have a slip-like shape that creates a subtly sexy silhouette, perfect for putting together a look that’s both understated and sensual. Fashioned from soft, flowing fabrics like satin or lace, chemises often include delicate details like embroidery or scalloped edges.

5. Corset

Corsets cinch the waist and lift the bust to emphasize curves, creating a dramatic hourglass shape. They come in various styles, from traditional lace-up designs to more modern zipper or hook-and-eye closures. Wear a corset on its own or paired with a garter belt and stockings for a look that screams Old Hollywood. 

6. Garter belt and stockings

Garter belts are designed to hold stockings in place, but they’re good for far more than just function. When paired with peek-a-boo pantyhose or lacy thigh-highs, garters and stockings deftly walk the line between sexiness and practicality.

7. Lace and see-through

Lace lingerie is all about the details. From intricate floral patterns to geometric shapes, lace adds a touch of sophistication and artistry to bras, panties, bodysuits, and whatever other types of lingerie suit your fancy. Some also have see-through mesh fabrics that leave nothing to the imagination.

8. Open-cup

Revealing and seductive, open-cup bras leave little to the imagination, offering the support and structure of a traditional bra without concealing the goods. Brands like CUUP and Intimissimi offer open-cup lingerie in a variety of styles, from subtle peek-a-boo bras to more explicit designs.

9. Role-play items

Sexual role-play is a great way to bring a bit of novelty to the bedroom, and lingerie brands make it easy to dress the part. From naughty nurse outfits to sultry police uniforms, there's a theme for every sexual fantasy. 

When you’re ready to spice up your playtime, don’t just go to your closest Spirit Halloween. Turn to brands like Agent Provocateur for high-quality options that blend imaginative design with sex appeal. 

10. Teddy

Like a chemise or bodystocking, teddies are a one-piece lingerie option that combines simplicity and sensuality. They can range from modest to daring, with designs featuring everything from full coverage to cut-outs and sheer panels. A negligee is a looser and longer version if you prefer to cover up.

Dress to impress (yourself)

No matter your shape or size, feeling comfortable and confident is key. Experiment with styles — a bodysuit one day, a babydoll the next. Mix and match styles like a teddy, tanga, or even a knickers-and-thong combo. You’ll find both what your partner (or partners) enjoy seeing and what makes you feel sexy.

Remember, the goal is to feel sensual and comfortable. If bras itch or corsets constrict you, don’t wear them. The best lingerie isn't just about looking good. It's about owning the skin you’re in without constraint.

Take charge of your sexuality

We can’t say this enough: Lingerie is as much for you as it is for your partners. Your sexuality is powerful, and sexy tap pants, bralettes, and hosiery can help you harness that power and make it yours.

The same is true for Quinn, the audio erotica app created by women, for the world. If you’re interested in seasonal erotica, couples' erotica, or plus-size love, the wide range of erotic content on Quinn is a great place to start.

To access thousands of audio stories and guided masturbation sessions, download the Quinn app for iOS or Android.