Make The Look Your Own: Underneath it all: A lesson in lingerie

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A cute and comfortable lingerie set can boost your body and your confidence.

Choosing your bra and panties every day is probably not something you put a lot of thought into; colour, comfort and cleanliness are sometimes the only factors taken into consideration. However, since they are the foundation of every fabulous ensemble, it is only right to give your skivvies the love and respect they deserve.

Naturally, fit is paramount. There is nothing worse (okay, there are a few things worse, but still) than ill-fitting undergarments. That being said, let's all take a moment and go through our top drawer. It's time to say goodbye to baggy granny panties (visible panty line is an unforgivable offence), boy shorts with a torn seam, and bras you've grown out of or have lost their support over countless wears and washes. What's the point of having to dig through your drawers day after day when you can play your starting lineup and keep a short bench? A good bra or fantastic pair of panties can really make an impact on how your outfit looks, and how you feel wearing it.

While your lingerie is definitely a significant part of your wardrobe, I have to say that it is not something that I am willing to invest a great amount of money into, and here's why: it isn't meant to last. Bras, worn regularly and handwashed delicately are still only meant to last a maximum of three to six months. Panties, as cute as they are, quickly lose elasticity and shape, as well as shrink in the dryer and make you think that your ass has grown exponentially in a matter of days. This is not a good feeling, nor is it one I am willing to deal with. Buy a few moderately priced bras in black, white, skin tone and one with pattern or in a sexy colour. Go to your favourite lingerie store and you'll see panty tables with lots of good deals. Make sure you have a variety of styles that you like, and finding some that match your bras will make it even easier to get excited about getting dressed in the morning.

Lingerie is meant to support, emphasize and accentuate what you're working with. This doesn't mean that it has to be stiff, tight or uncomfortable. Quite the contrary, underwear that's doing its job shouldn't even be noticeable throughout the day. If there is a big red welt carved into your ribcage when you take your bra off, you're doing it wrong. If your straps dig into your shoulders, you have a support issue. If your low-rider undies cut across the wrong part of your hips, you can create love handles that weren't there the day before. Not only is this troubling, it can change the way that your clothes fit you and create bulges where no bulges should be. Back fat underneath your bra strap, side boob spillage, love handles and uniboob are all avoidable evils.

It is easy to underestimate the importance of good lingerie. Just remember that extra pep in your step when your bra and panties match. A few extra minutes of care in the morning can make a big difference. The right bra can improve your posture, emphasize your shape, and help your tops fit better. The right panties slim your hips and tummy and can give your bum a boost that has you shakin' it all day.