20 Classic Lingerie Styles Every Woman Should Own
Despite the fact that lingerie trends seem to be all the rage these days, I’ve somehow found myself utterly unable to relate. Whether it’s a bra trend, new thong style, or anything else really, if it strays too far outside the box of my classic favorites, it’s likely not to be for me.
Much like in my day-to-day fashion choices (aside from the rare exception), I like to stick to the simple things and figured some of you might too. So, today I've rounded up the best essential classic lingerie styles I think every woman should own regardless of their take on fads, but especially if, like me, they're more trend-averse. From bra styles to underwear, to the fun part—extras—see and shop my picks in each category below.
Bras
Little Lace
T-Shirt
For those days you actually don't want your bra to show under your shirt.
Unlined
Sometimes, you just want to go sheer.
Convertible
This bra converts from classic to racer back, depending on what you're wearing and where you want the straps to be.
Sports
I don't even exercise, but I still find myself slipping into the comfort of a sports bra a couple times a week.
Strapless
Bralette
Underwear
High-Waisted
Cotton Briefs
Boy Shorts
Lace Briefs
Nude
Stretch-Lace Thong
As far as thongs go, this is what I consider to be the most comfortable style.
Seamless
Seamless underwear is perfect for going incognito, even in those materials that somehow show every line or wrinkle.
Extras
Robe
Camisole
Wear them out, at home, alone, or layered!
PJ Set
Personally, I'm a fan of short pajama sets, but if pants are your thing, by all means go for it.
Teddy
Also known as a playsuit or sleep romper.
Bodysuit
Perfect for wearing alone or layering under sheer tops or dresses and blazers.
Slip Dress
While the slip dress as a purely fashion item is always coming in and out of style, as lingerie it will always be a classic.
Up next? The best denim trends for simple style.
Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. Upon joining, she was a senior about to graduate from business school at USC. Fast-forward to 2025, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was just starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content and her Trust Me—Buy This newsletter. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to neutral, classic pieces but will always make an exception for something colorful or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a party is dressing up for one. On her downtime, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious and trying to force her husband to watch Summer House.
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