Online shopping for lingerie is the next best thing invented since sliced bread. Okay fine, maybe that is a slight exaggeration, but one cannot deny the ‘perks’ of online lingerie shopping. With a vast selection of brands, types, designs, colour, sizes and costs available on the internet, and the avoidance of hassles such as long queues, parking and so on, online lingerie shopping is the way to go. However like all good things, there are a few things to be wary of, when buying lingerie online.

One of the downsides of online shopping is the fact that you cannot try on the lingerie before making your purchase. Most online stores have pictures displaying models wearing the lingerie, so you have an idea of what it will look like on you. However, these models have ‘perfect figures’ that make lingerie look amazing, but there is a good chance that the lingerie will not fit you in the same way.

To avoid disappointments like this, it is VITAL to know your size really well. Use a tape and take measurements of your body. For the most accurate results, it is wise to get someone else to take the measurements, so you can stand still. To measure your bust, start at the centre of your chest, at the fullest part and wind the tape around until it meets the start. For waist measurements, place your hands at your natural waistline. This is where the tape should be positioned. To measure your hips, wind the tape around the fullest part of the hips. The number on the tape measure is your true size, but if your measurements fall between two numbers, use the larger one. For example if you measure and your bust is 33.4’’, round up to 34.

Another thing to consider before purchasing lingerie online is the design. To see what will suit you best, you need to determine the shape of your body – whether it is pear, apple, hourglass or triangle shaped. Choosing a design that will go well with your body shape will accentuate its best features.

You should look at the product description and quality. Basically, this will tell you what colour, fabric, care, maintenance and other details. It is important that you can check and verify if what you have received matches the one that is described in the website and if there is a return/refund policy.

There are many good quality lingerie brands out there. One of the most popular is Lise Charmel, the famous French lingerie supplier, which has a wide selection of products in various colours and sizes.