You've found the perfect party dress for your friend's Christmas party. It's sexy, satin and glints in the candlelight. You pull it over your everyday knickers and bra, and something's just not right. The fabric's bunching in places and just doesn't sit smoothly. A fashion emergency ensues.
Good news, we've got just the guide to help you avoid sartorial panic this season, aided by experts in the field, of course. The sooner you know what you're wearing, the earlier you can prepare the correct undergarments for it, but even if you haven't found your perfect party dress, just keeping these tips in mind will make the pairing process much easier when the time comes.
Have you got a high-slit, Angelina-Jolie moment in mind or a scandalously backless dress you'll be showing off? We've got you covered.
Read on to see what advice Zoe Price-Smith, chief design & product officer of Boux Avenue, and Erika Macalinao-Gorden, director of marketing at Hanky Panky have to offer.
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What are some general rules of thumb?
Getting dressed for an event or specific outfit styles shouldn't include a battle of underwear to achieve the desired look," says the Erika team. “One big mistake is not prioritising fit. Wearing something too tight or too loose can throw off the whole look and feel of an outfit, not to mention it’s just plain uncomfortable.”
Start with the fabric and fit of your dress. “If you’re wearing something clingy or body con, choose a microfibre bra that’s invisible under clothing, says Zoe. ”But, if you’re rocking the sheer trend, choose lingerie with a bit of an extra wow factor, such as lingerie with hints of shimmer through delicate threaded embroidery. You can’t go wrong with a bit of sparkle during party season!"
So, what should I wear under a….
“Under a lace skirt you will want knickers that offer full coverage, made with a microfibre material for a smooth effect," says Zoe. “Avoid anything with patterns or intricate details as this will clash with the intricacy of your lace skirt.”
“A lace thong, whether you are wearing silk or satin, is the perfect piece to avoid a visible panty line (VPL)," says Erika. “We specifically have an anti-adjustment fit and V-waistband blocks binding or riding and our curved crotch ensures the thong stays put. You could also opt for a seamless cotton panty for when you just want a bit more support.”
Now for the bust, for those who don't need much support, silicone stickies are the way to go. “The silicone fabrication allows this to be smooth against your skin and invisible under a satin dress,” says Zoe. But for those who need more of a lift, you can’t go wrong with a microfibre strapless bra, which is a lingerie staple. “Boux Avenue’s strapless bra has silicone elastic at the top and bottom of the wing for a more secure hold. Ensuring you are not constantly having to pull your bra up whilst dancing the night away.”
“For low-back dresses, a multiway bra paired with a low-back converter is a great option. You'll get the coverage you need while keeping your bra hidden, while as a completely open-back dresses call for adhesive bras or nipple covers,” says Zoe. “Alternatively, adhesive bras or bodysuits with a low back can provide a balance of support and coverage without compromising on the design of the dress.”
Besides avoiding the dreaded VPL, when it comes to a high-slit dress the front view is also another point of concern, so the best style of briefs or thong is one with a high leg. “A little tip—the knicker styles with elasticated sides like our Fran lace high leg thong, allows you to position the thong higher on your hips, ensuring there is no knicker coverage showing with your high slit dress,” says Zoe.
Sheer dresses have been dominating the red carpets and our FYPs and show no sign of stopping. So maybe it's time to lean into the barely-there trend and let your lingerie take the spotlight.
Try a longline bra, paired with a blazer or perhaps a lingerie bodysuit, for example. The key is to choose a supportive bra with ample amount of coverage to make it look intentional, then pair it with tailored trousers and a structured blazer. For more coverage, bodysuits offer a sleek silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down—and can actually serve to accentuate your figure. Try it with a sheer or sparkly skirt for maximum festive points.
“Many celebrities are rocking the visible stocking or suspender trend,” says Zoe. “So when you are wearing that high-slit dress, a peekaboo of your stocking will give you the Sabrina Carpenter moment of your dreams!”
