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Lingerie Buying Guide

How to Choose
Lingerie
Size & Style Guide

Whether you're buying for yourself or as a gift, we break down styles, sizing, fabrics, and what actually works for different body types. No guesswork.

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Lingerie Size Guide — How to Measure

Get the fit right the first time with these quick steps.

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Bust Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. This is your cup reference for bras and the sizing anchor for most one-piece styles.

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Underbust & Band Size

Measure snugly just below your bust. Add 4 inches if the result is even, 5 inches if odd — that's your band size. This determines how a bra or corset will fit across your ribcage.

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Waist Measurement

Measure at the narrowest point of your torso, usually just above your belly button. Critical for corsets and any piece with waist shaping or boning.

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Hip Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and backside. For bottoms and full-body pieces, size to your largest measurement and adjust straps or ties from there.

Pro tip: always check the individual brand's size chart — lingerie sizing is less standardized than regular clothing.

Lingerie Fabrics — What to Know

The fabric changes everything — how it feels, how it looks, and how it wears.

Lace

The classic. Delicate-looking but surprisingly durable. Works for everything from everyday sets to special occasion pieces. Usually blended with elastane for stretch.

Satin

Smooth, shiny, luxurious. Feels incredible against skin and photographs beautifully. Can be slippery — great for chemises and robes, less practical for active wear.

Mesh

Sheer, bold, and surprisingly versatile. Great layering piece. Holds its shape well and comes in every color. Scratchy mesh is a red flag — quality mesh is soft.

Velvet

Rich, plush, and deeply sensual. A seasonal choice — gorgeous in fall and winter. Holds color beautifully and feels indulgent against skin.

Why Shop Lingerie at Doctor John's?

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Since 1987

Four stores, decades of expertise. We know lingerie — and we know how to help you find exactly what you're after.

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Discreet Shipping

Plain packaging, zero clues outside. Your business stays your business.

All Sizes Welcome

We carry lingerie in a wide range of sizes. Sexy looks good on everybody — full stop.

Lingerie Buying Guide — FAQ

How do I find the right lingerie size?

Start with your regular clothing sizes as a baseline, then check the brand's specific size chart — lingerie sizing varies more than regular clothing. For bras, measure your underbust for band size and your fullest bust point for cup size. For bodysuits and teddies, go by your largest measurement (bust, waist, or hips) and size up if you're between sizes. When in doubt, size up — it's easier to work with something slightly loose than something too tight.

What lingerie styles are most flattering for curvy or plus-size bodies?

Almost anything works — the key is knowing what you want to highlight. Babydolls and chemises skim over the midsection and are universally flattering. Corsets create an hourglass shape and provide support. High-waisted panties with a matching bralette elongate the torso. Teddies with ruching at the waist define your curves. Doctor John's carries an extensive plus-size selection designed for real bodies.

What fabrics should I look for in quality lingerie?

Lace is the classic — it looks delicate but is surprisingly durable. Satin and silk (or silk-like synthetics) are smooth, luxurious, and photograph beautifully. Mesh and sheer fabrics are bold and versatile. For everyday comfort, look for blends with a bit of spandex or elastane — they move with you and hold their shape. Avoid anything that scratches or irritates your skin, especially around sensitive areas.

What lingerie works best for different occasions?

For a special night: full sets, corsets, or teddies in rich fabrics like satin or lace. For everyday wear: comfortable bra and panty sets, wireless bralettes, or soft bodysuits. For a gift: babydolls and chemises are safe choices because the fit is forgiving. For a performance or photo: structured pieces with boning or padding that hold their shape. For lounging: robes, satin shorts sets, or anything in soft jersey fabric.

Find Your Perfect Lingerie

Shop hundreds of styles at Doctor John's — every size, every vibe, every occasion. Discreet shipping on every order.

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