The Main Difference Between French and American Lingerie

When it comes to lingerie, we tend to pride ourselves on knowing quite a lot, and with good reason. After pressing lingerie experts on every topic under the sun and researching the best lingerie brands all over the world, our recent introduction to emerging Parisian lingerie brand, Implicite, came as a shock to us all. The fact that we had never heard of Implicite until just recently made us both uneasy and very excited. With almost all product sold under the brand ringing in at under $100, this discovery felt like striking gold. 

Anxiously curious to learn more, we reached out to Verity Balzan, the head designer for Implicite, to get the inside scoop on the history of the brand, what sets it apart as an inherently French label, the main difference between French and American lingerie, and much more. Ahead, get ready to read our interview with Verity and to shop this now not-so-secret French lingerie for yourself. We have a feeling that soon, both your carts and this brand will be huge. 

Can you give me a little background on how the brand got started?

Implicite launched in Paris in 2007, inspired by a need in the market to provide everyday glamorous and sexy lingerie at an affordable price without compromising fit or comfort. Implicite represents a new generation of French lingerie that’s adapted to the busy lives of modern women. It’s chic, mysterious, sensual, and at times, erotic.

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What makes this brand inherently French to you?

Our experienced design team is located in the heart of Paris and led by women who understand how to play with lingerie every day. We are inspired to create lingerie that women can style, seduce and feel sexy in. Whether it’s concealed or not… you exude that magnetic allure that’s so French.

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What is the difference between French and American lingerie?

French women celebrate beautiful lingerie as an everyday part of their look. They do not separate “everyday bras” from “special occasion lingerie,” but rather they pick their lingerie for the day based on the season, their mood, or their outfit. French lingerie is as sexy and chic as it is wearable, so you can wear lace to work on a Monday, to meet a friend for coffee, or for date night. This is a big part of the French “je-ne-sais-quoi”.

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What are some of the best selling products on Implicite and why?

Our best-selling set is the Talisman Demi with the matching boyshort or thong. With satin trim and sheer mesh, the design is incredibly sensual, but also very comfortable. The Talisman Open Cup Bra is our number one seduction bra and has that “wow-factor.”

Bralettes are very on-trend in Paris right now, and so easy to layer and style with your outfit. The Bliss Bralette is a best-seller, thanks to its soft lace, flirty details and multi-way straps. The Infinity Bralette is another best-seller with a flattering longline silhouette.

The Jealousy Bodysuit is a favorite of Parisian style influencers and bloggers… a gorgeous style piece with lace and sheer mesh that’s also supremely comfortable. The bottom of this bodysuit is made of super-soft microfiber. It’s effortless.

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What are some tips you would give to women who are nervous to invest in lingerie?

Here are a few tips to get started:

1. Think of lingerie as the first layer of your look, and have fun with it. Match the colors to your outfit – or not! You’re the only one who knows what color your lingerie is so why not have fun and match them to your shoes or your lipstick.

2. Just say “non” to the nude bra… at least a few days a week! Embrace new colors and see how they make you feel. Most French women don’t wear nude bras. White or black is their neutral.

3. Try a lace bralette. Bralettes are so comfortable and easy to wear, but stylish with an effortlessly sexy appeal.

We’ve kept Implicite’s pricing affordable (bras start at $45) to give more women access to the experience of French lingerie. So have fun with it! There is something powerful about loving the way you feel in your lingerie. You own your look. You define your own meaning of sexy.

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Shop more Implicite pieces we love: