Find the right fit: Why innerwear matters more than you think

Long before bras had underwires or came in cup sizes, women found creative ways to make their outfits sit just right. From the tightly wrapped fabrics of ancient Greece to the bandeaus worn by Roman women and the stiff corsets of Victorian times, support has always been part of the equation, even if comfort was not.

Fast forward to today, the struggle unfortunately still continues.

Despite having drawers full of options, finding the right bra for that one dress feels like a mission. One is too visible, another digs in uncomfortably, and the shapewear you bought after all the hype seems to betray you, rolling down by the second hour.

That universal frustration of trying to find the perfect fit that flatters your shape, is the right colour, and feels comfortable, all while running late and second-guessing every wardrobe choice you have ever made — a feeling every woman can relate to.

When it comes to bras, the options can feel endless, which can often leave someone feeling overwhelmed. The most popular everyday bras in Bangladesh are made from soft, stretchy materials that allow for breathability in the hot and humid climate.

Among the many must-have bras in your wardrobe, seamless bras are a go-to for young professionals and students alike, offering comfort without compromising on support. 

They usually come without wires, reducing the chance of poking or digging into sensitive skin. "Most of our customers prefer seamless bras for daily wear," shares an in-store consultant of  SHAPE, a well-known intimate wear boutique in Dhaka.

A pink lacy bra is perfect for a light summer day.

However, not all bras serve the same purpose. For example, T-shirt bras are designed with moulded cups to give a smooth silhouette under fitted tops.

"It gives shape, support and stays invisible under t-shirts, kurtis, and work outfits," says an in-store consultant of SHAPE. Meanwhile, bralettes, often wire-free and made of lace or soft cotton, are more suited for lounging at home or layering under loose, low-cut tops.

For more structured support, full-coverage bras are recommended. These are best for women with larger busts or anyone looking for a more lifted, sculpted shape. "When fitted properly, they can be very comfortable and flattering," the SHAPE team explained. These are ideal for formal events, parties, or occasions where long wear and strong support are necessary.

For special occasions, women often choose a variety of bras depending on their outfit and comfort needs. Along with popular styles like lace balconette bras, mesh or satin bralettes, plunge bras, many also prefer strapless bras for dresses and sarees with tricky necklines or bare shoulders. Push-up bras are another option for those who want extra lift and shape during festive or formal events.

Shapewear has evolved into modern, breathable garments that help smooth and shape without suffocating. In Bangladesh, high-waist shapewear briefs and bodysuits are particularly popular. These pieces help create a streamlined silhouette under sarees, gowns, and fitted dresses

"Right before Eid or wedding season, we always see a spike in sales of shapewear," says SHAPE's representative. "Mothers, young professionals, and brides-to-be come in asking for high-waist shapers that don't roll down and offer compression without suffocating you."

Their most popular options include sculpting body shapers priced within Tk 2000 that stay in place, and straps that don't dig into the shoulders.

Choosing shapewear depends on the outfit and occasion. Light compression shapewear is perfect for everyday smoothing under work clothes or fitted shalwar kameez. Medium to firm compression, on the other hand, is suited for special occasions or dresses that need more structure. Bodysuits offer full torso control, while thigh-length shapewear also helps prevent chafing in warmer months.

When it comes to underwear, full-coverage cotton briefs remain the undisputed favourite across age groups in Bangladesh for everyday use. They're breathable, soft on the skin, and absorbent, making them ideal for long commutes, busy workdays, and our country's generally humid climate.

A sleek seamless bra offers a smooth support under any outfit and can be paired effortlessly with a tailored white blazer.

For office wear or when wearing fitted trousers or formal skirts, seamless panties are a more polished choice. "Just like our bra line, our seamless panty sets in nude tones are some of the most popular items in our underwear line as well," shared the SHAPE representative.

If you are wearing high-waisted jeans or sarees, high-rise panties offer added tummy support and coverage without the tightness of full shapewear. They are a practical middle ground, comfortable enough for daily wear but also flattering under traditional outfits. Some high-rise styles even come with a bit of lace detailing, adding a subtle touch of femininity without compromising on function.

Mid-rise bikini cuts are another popular option, especially among younger women. These sit lower on the waist and are better suited for mid-rise jeans or casual outfits.

But, no matter how well you choose your intimate wear, taking care of your innerwear can make all the difference, as poor maintenance can shorten its lifespan. Most intimate pieces are made of delicate materials and need to be washed with care to retain shape, stretch, and softness.

Shereen Ahmed, who works at Sweet Dreams, a lingerie store in Banani, advises hand-washing intimate wear. "It's especially important for lace, wired bras, and shapewear," she says. Cold water and a mild detergent are your best bet for preserving softness and stretch. 

And if you are using a washing machine, she recommends placing bras and panties in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling or damage from hooks. "Just don't throw them in with jeans or towels," she adds.

She also warns against using a dryer. Heat can ruin the elastic, warp the cups, and wear down compression panels. "Always air dry in the shade," she advises. 

Lay them flat or hang them by the little fabric piece between the cups. Shapewear, especially, should never be wrung out. "That can stretch the fabric and make it less effective after just a few wears."

Even how you store them matters. Shereen explains that moulded-cup bras should never be folded, as they can crush the cups and lose their form; instead, stack them flat, one on top of the other, to preserve their structure.

Panties and shapewear, on the other hand, can be folded neatly, but delicate lace or mesh items require extra care. They should be stored separately from rougher fabrics or items with hooks to prevent snagging and damage; it is best to keep them in breathable fabric pouches or in a dedicated drawer. This prevents unnecessary stretching and helps the fabric retain its strength, especially if you don't wear these pieces regularly.

Knowing what to wear and how to care for it can completely transform how you feel in your clothes. 

As SHAPE's representative perfectly puts it, "Innerwear isn't a luxury. It's a necessity. The perfect fit supports your posture, keeps you comfortable all day, and gives you a confidence boost like no other. Once you experience that, there's simply no turning back."