Lingerie Tips for Women Over 40

Lingerie is a sensitive topic, and it's only going to get more so as women engage in the subversive behavior known as "aging." Whether you're buying to please yourself or to impress your partner, the truth is, lingerie is suitable for all ages. luckyplussize offers a wide selection of elegant lingerie for older women, from understated to bold.

The assumption of age is that at some point in your life you know what fits your body and you develop a certain style. As you get older, the world assumes you know what you're doing, which means super trendy pieces that make you look like you're still trying, or that you somehow don't know that you should be old enough to know more.

See, here’s the thing about dressing your age and staying on trend: you know there’s a way to do it, but once you’ve seen it done wrong it strikes fear in your heart. We’ve all been there when it comes to look like we know what’s happening without “trying too hard.”

So, here a few lingerie tips for you lovely ladies turning over 40 gracefully:

Embrace change

Invest in well-structured bras that support these changes. But don’t assume you have to settle for less beauty or sex appeal. You can choose from three-part cut and sewn bras, or those with side panels that help bring boobs front and center. Cups made with stretch lace fabrics cradle your new curves. Wider straps won’t dig into shoulders but frame breasts with extra feminine detail.

Be true to yourself 

Push up bras and padded contour bras can often add an extra burden to the busts of women over 40. Less full breasts fall to the bottom of cups and leave an empty, unfilled space. Softer skin that spills up and over bra cups create wrinkled cleavage. A bra that both lifts and separates stops “creasage.” Be sure to swoop all your boob flesh from the sides into each cup. The result? Sexy décolletage that is no illusion.

Look at the big picture

It’s not just about bra size, fit, and style. You have to take panties into consideration. Does a cut-out hole in the back of your briefs enhance your behind? Thongs are surely an option to get that look, but then it’s wise to reconsider them for obvious reasons. As an alternative you might as well learn to love higher waists panties like garter belts. More coverage can still be sensual and alluring. So before you buy any panty, make sure you’re pleased with the view from behind.

Keep on learning 

Don’t be afraid to explore new lingerie territory. There’s a brave new world of sexy shapewear and fabrics that bring out the best in any figure. Try out tummy control, lace detailing, and smart pleated mesh rather than tight elastic.

All Orders: Luckyplussize wants to make dressing cheaper and easier for everyone. Everyone can be beautiful if they want to. That's why you get 10% off every time you buy anything online.

The thumb rules

• If the bra has a wire, the wire should sit behind the breast (under the arm area)
• The bra band provides the most support (not the straps)
• If a bra fits properly you should be able to have the straps hang over the sides of your shoulders
• The bra band and cups to completely support you
• A woman should be fitted every year for a new bra (bras can lose shape or your shape changes)

You may be getting older, but you know you’re getting better. Better at figuring out what you want from life, work, love, and your lingerie (but not necessarily in that order). When it comes to your well-being, do not be willing to settle for less. Don’t all women over 40 deserve the very best?

Why you should trust us

As a senior writer for the luckyplussize family team, I've written guides for robes, dresses, babydolls and onesies, among many other categories. With 15 years of sewing experience, including published quilt patterns, I know a lot about textiles and I can find the coziest and most comfortable fabrics for sleeping and lounging. I'm also a plus size woman, so accommodating sizing and a slim fit are very important to me and they form the heart of this guide.