Mainstream brands hold the largest number of stock, styles, and colours. They are also the easiest to obtain and the most common. You can head straight into a mall and find these brands with ease. These lingerie items are mass-produced and don’t always fit the best. They are normally made with synthetic fabrics that don’t breathe properly and, let’s be honest here, are not made to last. So even though you are saving money short-term, you are actually spending more since you will end up repurchasing after a few wears. They are also the most likely to have the flashiest and in-your-face advertising. I mention this because I find when brands need to push their image upon me it becomes this weird psychological influence versus one that I choose for myself. That can be dangerous, especially when it comes to our bodies. We are impressionable; to expect women to fit into one mould is completely wrong and extremely unhealthy. We don’t need another negative factor to make us question our bodies.

Independent/locally made brands are a great alternative and are becoming more popular. They are a great mid-price point and carry styles that are exclusive to the brand. Some are made to order, which lends a personal touch. Considering most independent lines are solely sold online, be sure to read the size measurements since fit will vary. Beyond how the product itself performs, supporting local and new designers is so important to the industry.

The way I see luxury/speciality brands or shops is that they have the budget and production team to create and design well-crafted and well-executed pieces. Some of the top houses have been making their product for years and should always be working to improve their craftsmanship and fits. This is not necessarily true of all luxury names, but this is the reason I would splurge on certain brands. They create collections with a smaller number of makes and fabrication is more exclusive to each brand. They have a direct influence on trends, which then flow into the mainstream brands. This also means the pieces are designed to last over multiple seasons. They are normally constructed better, last longer and, in my personal experience, feel and shape the best. Another key difference when shopping higher-end is the staff. They should be well educated on their product, which does make a difference when being fitted. Luxury does tend to be more beautifully designed and longer lasting, on top of having a proper fit. The importance of feeling beautiful and having it change the way you look at yourself in a positive light, is well worth the investment.

Given all the options and details, I have found investing in lingerie is so worth it. As I had mentioned in my previous posts, lingerie is so personal and intimate — this is a piece of clothing you will want to put your trust in. It’s something so close to your body and to you. Not to say there aren’t other options (sales are always great btw) but this is for you. Investing in something that makes you feel good and powerful is always worth it.