Retail Therapy: Lingerie For Your Shape

Supposedly, even super models have body qualms. Whether we believe that or not, in the real world every woman has one area she'd like to enhance (or hide!) Here, our lingerie picks no matter your problem.

By Leah Melby

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bra and underwear
Courtesy of ASOS
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If You Want to Enhance Your Bust...

This wispy number is more substantial than it looks, layering blush and black for a sultry effect that will create cleavage.

ASOS Boudoir bra and briefs, $33.24 and $18.47; asos.com.

bra
Courtesy of Lula Lu Petites
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If You Want to Enhance Your Bust...

The biggest error small-chested women can make is wearing a bra with too much padding. Look for a balconette or demi-cup style with a small lift, in a solid color—a busy pattern will overwhelm your figure.

The Little Bra Company push-up, $58; lulalu.com.

cosabella lace bra and underwear
Courtesy of Cosabella
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If You Want to Downplay Your Chest...

For a large bust, it's all about support, support, support. Pick lace or sheer over practical fabrics for a sexy feel, and keep shopping until you find one that looks as good as it fits.

Cosabella bra and thong, $82.50 and $36.50; cosabella.com and cosabella.com.

cleo panache bra and underwear
Courtesy of Panache
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If You Want to Downplay Your Chest...

Spilling out and over is definitely not sexy. This style provides full coverage but with two different fabrics, there's nothing that feels utilitarian about it.

Panache Cleo balconette bra and brief, $55 and $29; lindasonline.com and lindasonline.com.

Courtesy of Elle Macpherson Intimates
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If You Want to Erase Your Hips...

Sorry, ladies, but the worst thing you can do is to downplay your hips. We get it--you want to still feel sexy while showcasing your not-so-favorite body part. A retro body suit perfectly plays up curvy, Monroe-esque hips and will turn him on more than any crotchless panty contraption.

Obsidian by Elle Macpherson bodysuit, $125;net-a-porter.com.

Courtesy of ASOS
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If You Want to Erase Your Hips...

Surprise, surprise: Two-piece, garter-belt sets can work even if you'd prefer your hips to be erased from the equation entirely. Look for a cut that comes down over the hips, playing up sexy curves.

Passionata top with suspenders, $88.63; asos.com.

Courtesy of Victoria's Secret Pink
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If You Want to Add Some Curves...

Athletic body types should go for bold colors and a close fit to avoid loosing curves. If you're not comfortable in girly, frilly lingerie, don't discount great fitting, simple styles in bright lace.

Victoria's Secret Pink bra and bikini, $36.50 and $9.50; victoriassecret.com and victoriassecret.com.

Courtesy of Jezebel
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If You Want to Add Some Curves...

There's nothing random about the construction of this saucy little number. The piping is placed perfectly to mimic an hourglass shape, giving the illusion of some major va-va-voom.

Jezebel corset and thong, $48 and $12; designerintimates.com and designerintimates.com.

Courtesy of Journelle
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If You Want to Cover Your Tummy...

A bra and panty set are the ultimate in exposure. If you're self-conscious about your midsection, longer lengths will quell your anxiety. Done in lace, it's still super sexy.

Clo Fortuna slip, $120; journelle.com.

Courtesy of Victoria's Secret
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If You Want to Cover Your Tummy...

The always-sexy teddy does the best job at masking a belly. Look for one that flatters your bust and go as skimpy as you dare. Light coverage up top will balance out the fuller feel of the skirted bottom.

Victoria's Secret teddy, $35; victoriassecret.com.

Courtesy of Journelle
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If You Want to Flatter Your Rear...

Don't thongs feel so everyday now? Vamp it up with a shorty or tanga style bottom for a sexy feel and a cut that flatters anybody's bottom.

Chantelle shorty, $56; journelle.com.

Courtesy of DKNY Intimates
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If You Want to Flatter Your Rear...

We love how this sultry set provides a little extra coverage in the sexiest way possible. Bonus for you: Forgiving lace isn't likely to dig into skin, creating unsightly bumps or lumps.

DKNY bra and thong, $40 and $24; macys.com and herroom.com.

Courtesy of Hanky Panky
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If You Want to Hide Your Thighs...

When it comes to lingerie, fully covering your legs just isn't an option (unless you found a man who thinks a muumuu is subversively sexy.) Thankfully, a deep neckline and sultry lace make this longer hemline perfect for the bedroom.

Hanky Panky chemise, $126; hankypanky.com.

Courtesy of Chelsea Manor
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If You Want to Hide Your Thighs...

Prepare to bare your bosom! Okay, it might not be a cardinal rule of lingerie shopping, but it makes a lot of sense. Color-blocking and strategic color placement direct all focus to the part of your body you want to be noticed.

Affinitas babydoll, $45; herroom.com.

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