CODE EXCEPTIONS

The world of ladies underwear is loaded with a dizzying array of designs, with further variations adding to the the styles. In recent years, there have been even more variations on women's undergarments. With this in mind, and to avoid possible confusion, here's a list of some of the types of lingerie and women's underwear around today.

Bralet – A comfortable style for smaller bust sizes, bralets can be put on by being pulled over the head or by clasps at the back. The difference between bralets and regular bras is they have no underwiring, and rarely have lining. Sometimes, bralets worn as sleepwear or casualwear, depending on the style.

Tankini – Based on a swimsuit, a tankini combines bikini bottoms with a tank top instead of a normal bra top. Tankinis tend to be worn as a concealing alternative.

Boythong/Boyshorts – With a fuller back than normal thongs or knickers, boyshorts and boythongs are the ideal choice when looking for underwear that minimises VPL, or that embarrassing flash of thong from the top of your jeans.

Body – Designed to fit around the body, from the bust to the legs, a body helps to shape and define a woman's figure.

Chemise – a chemise has evolved from the smock of past centuries, and offers a loose fitting form of underwear covering the bust to the thigh. Very similar to the baby doll style.

Camisole – This loose fitting top is designed to cover the bust, hanging down to the waist. These often have straps, and very little in the way of structured underwiring for the bust.

Basque – A basque is an evolution of bodices and tightly fitted jackets that date back from the medieval times. The closely fitted corset style is contoured up to the bust, while the lower part of the basque extends over the hips. Basque styles often form the basis for many formal and evening dresses.

Hikini – Hikinis are actually high waisted bikini-style brief – 'high-kini'. The high waist offers a smoother shaping and a close body fit.

Hipster - Hipster briefs are similar to regular briefs, but they're worn a little lower at the waist and hips. This makes them perfect for lower cut jeans, trousers and skirts.

Long Line Bra – Offering the same support and shape as a bra, long line bras reach down as far as the midriff. This extra coverage offers shaping and support for the torso.

Corselet – A corselet is a garment that has a snuggly fitted bodice that extends to the chest. However the main difference between a corselet and a corset is that it extends further, with legs that almost reach the knees. These became less popular after the Victorian era, because of the more common use of tights and stockings. Corselets are beginning to have something of a resurgence.

Racer Back Bra – Reducing bra lines, racer back bras are closely fitted. The straps also criss cross at the back and can be pulled on over the head, eliminating the need for clasps that can just out underclothing.

Balconet – Also known as 'balconnette', balconet bras are designed to lift and shape, and have become increasingly popular.

Catherine writes for