Social media has completely changed how we shop for everything, especially lingerie. Our feeds are packed with endless images of lingerie models and influencers, most of them looking perfectly posed, perfectly lit and, honestly, pretty unrealistic.
The article Stand Out Social Media Stars – The Pioneers in Breaking Stereotypes and Body Positivity by Belle Lingerie reminds us just how much this can affect us. It highlights a UNESCO report that found 32% of teenage girls said Instagram made them feel worse about their bodies. If it’s having that impact on teenagers, it’s easy to see how it can knock adult confidence too – especially when we’re shopping for something as close-to-the-skin as lingerie. The article shares how influencers are working hard to challenge stereotypes so everyone feels better about themselves.
But the good news is, you can take some of that pressure off. Here’s how to make lingerie shopping feel better and more supportive, both for your body and your head.
Know Your Size (and Recheck It)
Before you even start shopping, make sure you know your current size. Bodies change over time with weight shifts, hormones, and age. Get measured properly in store (many places offer free fittings) or use a tape measure at home and follow an online guide. Wearing the right size makes everything look and feel better.
Comfort Comes First
It’s easy to fall for a lacey set that looks gorgeous online but feels scratchy and awkward in real life. Prioritise comfort. Look for natural fibres like cotton, bamboo and modal – they’re breathable, better for sensitive skin, and help with sweat and allergies. A pretty set means nothing if you can’t wait to take it off.
Shop With the Right Mindset
Remember, lingerie is supposed to fit you – not the other way around. If something doesn’t sit right, gape, or pinch, that’s the garment’s fault, not yours. Good lingerie supports, flatters, and makes you feel good without changing anything about your body.
Try On at Home If You Can
Changing room mirrors and lighting can be brutal. Wherever possible, order a few sizes and styles to try at home. At home, you can move around properly, see yourself in natural light, and judge comfort without feeling rushed or self-conscious. Return anything that doesn’t make you feel good.
Understand the Posing Trick
Even influencers admit to posing, arching, lighting tricks and editing. What you’re seeing online isn’t real life. Relaxed bodies, soft tummies, and stretch marks are totally normal – not something to hide.
Curate Your Social Media Feed
If your feed is making you feel worse, clean it up. Unfollow accounts that focus on one narrow idea of beauty and follow creators who show real, unposed bodies. Seeing more variety helps you see your own beauty more clearly.
Choose What Makes You Feel Good
In the article, influencer Cléance Obolo talked about how wearing black lingerie makes her feel powerful and free. Whether you prefer bold colours, delicate lace or simple, comfy sets, go with what lifts your mood and makes you feel like you.
Support Brands That Support You
Brands like Elomi and Goddess are pushing for more diversity and less airbrushing. Seek out brands that show real bodies and a wide range of sizes. It makes a difference when you see women who actually look like you in the ads.
Lingerie shopping should never be about living up to an impossible online ideal. It’s about feeling supported, comfortable and confident in your own body, exactly as it is.
This is a collaborative post
