Books about Bras and Lingerie: Notes and Reviews
The internet is great (glad you're here), but sometimes there's no replacement for a good book in your hands that you can highlight, dog-ear and loan to friends. For those moments, here is a list of books that we've read and enjoyed, and we think you might, too!
The Bra Book - Jane Luciani
The Bra Book: The Fashion Formula to Finding the Perfect Bra by Jene Luciani is a breezy, accessible guide designed to help women navigate the often-confusing world of bra shopping. Originally published in 2009 and updated in 2017, this roughly 200-page book combines practical advice, fashion tips, and a dash of humor to empower readers to find bras that fit well and feel great. Luciani, a style expert and TV personality, draws on her experience and interviews with industry insiders to create a user-friendly resource.
The book covers the essentials: understanding bra sizes, debunking myths, and identifying signs of a poor fit, such as slipping straps or bulging cups. Luciani offers step-by-step guidance on measuring at home and explains how band and cup sizes work across brands. It dives into bra styles—push-up, sports, strapless, nursing—and their suitability for different outfits, body types, and occasions, with tips for everything from boosting cleavage to minimizing bounce during workouts. Fun sidebars, like celebrity bra stories and maintenance advice (e.g., hand-washing to extend bra life), keep it engaging. The updated edition adds insights on modern trends, like bralettes and inclusive sizing.
Its strength is its conversational tone and broad appeal, making it ideal for bra-shopping newbies or those frustrated by ill-fitting options. Because it's more of a flyover read, it lacks tons of depth on technical fit issues or diverse body types, and the fashion-forward focus can feel dated in parts, especially with evolving body-positive standards. It’s less comprehensive than newer guides but excels as a quick, encouraging read.
CONCLUSION: A fun, straightforward primer for bra basics with a stylish spin, though it skims the surface on complex fit challenges. Great for casual readers wanting confidence in their next bra purchase.
Demystifying Bra Fitting and Construction - Norma Loehr
Demystifying Bra Fitting and Construction by Norma Loehr is a practical, no-nonsense guide for home sewers and aspiring lingerie designers eager to master the art of bra-making. Published in 2014, this 143-page book draws on Loehr’s experience as the founder of Orange Lingerie to break down the complex process of crafting custom bras. Aimed at beginners and intermediate sewers, it focuses on the fundamentals of fitting and construction, with an emphasis on achieving professional results using purchased patterns.
The book covers bra anatomy, sizing, and fit, guiding readers through measuring techniques, testing underwires, and constructing a toile to perfect the fit of the band, cups, and straps. Loehr details fabric selection, stretch principles, and sourcing supplies, alongside step-by-step sewing techniques—like attaching elastics, topstitching, and handling underwires. Color photos and clear instructions enhance accessibility, though some sections lack visuals where they’d clarify tricky steps. It’s refreshingly straightforward, avoiding lofty promises about bra-making being universally “easy” or “cheap,” instead offering realistic tips for success, like her bridge-fitting advice, which many find invaluable.
However, the book has limitations. Loehr deliberately avoids pattern drafting or exploring diverse bra styles (like push-up, strapless, or sports bras), focusing solely on her preferred non-padded, round-cup design. This narrow scope can disappoint anyone wanting broader versatility or creative freedom. Overall, it’s a solid starting point for those committed to learning bra construction with a pattern in hand. Its clarity and focus make it a valuable resource, though it’s not a one-stop shop for all bra-making ambitions.
CONCLUSION: A clear, useful guide for beginners tackling classic bra styles, but its limited scope and lack of drafting instruction may disappoint those seeking more variety or depth. Ideal for practical sewers ready to dive in.
The Anatomy of the Bra - Laurie van Jonsson
The Anatomy of the Bra by Laurie van Jonsson is a concise guide that breaks down the complexities of bra design and fit for a general audience. Written by a lingerie industry insider, the book combines technical insight with practical advice, aiming to empower readers—whether shoppers, designers, or enthusiasts—to understand bras beyond their aesthetic appeal.
Spanning roughly 160 pages, it dives into the nuts and bolts of bra construction, detailing components like underwire, cups, straps, and elastics, and how they work together for support and comfort. Jonsson explains sizing systems, debunking myths about standard measurements, and offers tips for choosing bras for different body types and occasions. Historical tidbits, like the bra’s evolution from corsets to modern stretch fabrics, add context, while clear diagrams and color photos make technical topics approachable. The book also touches on niche areas, like sports bras and mastectomy designs, though some readers might find these sections brief.
Its strength lies in balancing education with accessibility, avoiding jargon while respecting the reader’s curiosity. Ideal for anyone wanting to shop smarter or peek behind the curtain of bra engineering, it’s a quick, engaging read.
CONCLUSION: Informative and well-illustrated, it’s a solid primer for understanding bras inside and out, though it prioritizes function over broader social commentary. Great for practical learners and lingerie fans.
Uplift: The Bra in America - Jane Farrell-Beck and Colleen Gau
Uplift: The Bra in America by Jane Farrell-Beck and Colleen Gau is a fascinating exploration of the bra’s evolution, weaving together social history, fashion, and women’s experiences from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. Rather than a technical history of the garment, the book uses the bra as a lens to examine broader societal shifts—how it shaped and was shaped by women’s style, health, and economic roles.
The authors trace the bra’s journey from discreet “bust girdles” in 1890s mail-order catalogs to a fashion staple by 1918, with 52 brands in department stores. They highlight quirky milestones—like Maidenform’s WWII pigeon vests or a bra with a zippered pocket for cash—while connecting design changes to cultural moments, like wartime rationing, the 1920s flat-chested ideal, and the 1960s feminist critiques of restrictive undergarments. The book shines in its use of ads, movies, and pop culture to show how bras reflected and influenced perceptions of femininity, though some readers note its chronology can feel disjointed, jumping across decades.
At 264 pages with black-and-white illustrations, it’s a lively, very thoroughly-researched read that avoids too much academic dryness. It appeals to those curious about fashion history or women’s studies, blending humor with insight.
CONCLUSION: Engaging and informative, it’s a unique angle on women’s history. Perfect for readers who enjoy factual, researched history with a small side of wit.
The Breast Life Guide to the Bra Zone - Elisabeth Dale
The Breast Life Guide to The Bra Zone by Elisabeth Dale is a concise, practical, and engaging guide for anyone navigating the often overwhelming world of bra shopping. Dale, a seasoned lingerie expert and founder of TheBreastLife.com, combines humor, relatability, and expertise to demystify bra sizing, fit, and style, making it accessible for first-time buyers and seasoned shoppers alike.
The book tackles common frustrations—like inconsistent sizing across brands and the stress of finding a comfortable, flattering bra—offering actionable solutions. Readers learn how to measure their size (even without a tape!), understand bra styles and their impact on appearance, and maintain a bra wardrobe, including when to wash or recycle them. Fun tips, like the "cupcake trick" for perfect fit, and myth-busting sections add a lighthearted touch while addressing real concerns. Dale’s body-positive tone shines, encouraging confidence across all ages and body types, though some readers might wish for deeper dives into niche topics like nursing bras for larger sizes.
At about 140 pages, it’s a quick, informative read, ideal for those seeking a go-to reference without fluff. It’s not exhaustive, but its clarity and warmth make it a valuable tool for anyone wanting to feel empowered in their lingerie choices.
CONCLUSION: A great blend of education and encouragement, perfect for bra shoppers craving straightforward advice.
In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear and Love Lingerie - Cora Harrington
In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie by Cora Harrington is a vibrant, inclusive guide that transforms the often intimidating world of lingerie into an empowering and approachable experience. Harrington, founder of The Lingerie Addict blog, draws on her expertise to create a 152-page handbook that’s equal parts practical and celebratory, catering to readers of all genders, sizes, and style preferences.
The book covers the essentials of lingerie—bras, panties, shapewear, hosiery, and loungewear—offering clear advice on sizing, fit, and care. Harrington demystifies bra measurements (like sister sizing) and explains how to choose pieces for comfort or confidence, whether for daily wear or special occasions. Beyond mechanics, she emphasizes self-expression, encouraging readers to embrace lingerie as a personal joy rather than a societal expectation. Chapters on niche topics, like corsets and sustainable brands, add depth, while tips on washing delicate fabrics or packing lingerie for travel are delightfully practical. The book’s colorful illustrations and body-positive tone make it inviting, though some readers might want more on budget-friendly options.
It shines in its blend of education and enthusiasm, dismantling stigma around lingerie with warmth and wit. At times, the breadth of topics can feel slightly rushed, but its accessibility makes it a standout. Perfect for beginners or those looking to refresh their lingerie drawer with confidence.
CONCLUSION: A joyful, informative gem that balances style and substance. Ideal for anyone seeking to understand and love lingerie on their own terms.
The Lingerie Handbook - Rebecca Apsan
The Lingerie Handbook by Rebecca Apsan, with contributions from Sarah Stark, is a chic and practical guide to navigating the world of lingerie, drawing on Apsan’s expertise as the owner of New York’s famed La Petite Coquette boutique. Published in 2006, this 192-page book blends style advice, fitting tips, and a touch of glamour, aiming to help readers—primarily women—feel confident and informed when choosing intimate apparel.
The book covers the essentials: bras, panties, shapewear, and sleepwear, with detailed sections on finding the right fit, understanding sizing (including how to measure for bras), and selecting pieces for different body types and occasions. Apsan’s approach is hands-on, offering step-by-step guidance on everything from spotting a poorly fitted bra to caring for delicate fabrics. Sprinkled with historical anecdotes—like the origins of the thong or the evolution of corsets—and lush photography, it feels like a coffee-table book with substance. Apsan also includes advice for special moments, like bridal lingerie or boudoir styling, adding a romantic flair. However, its focus on high-end brands can feel less accessible for budget-conscious readers, and some dated references reflect its mid-2000s context.
Its strength lies in Apsan’s warm, encouraging tone, making lingerie shopping feel less daunting and more like a treat. While not as inclusive of diverse identities as newer guides, it’s a solid resource for those seeking a blend of elegance and education.
CONCLUSION: Stylish and informative, it’s a great primer for lingerie lovers, though its luxury lean and slightly dated vibe may limit its appeal. Perfect for readers wanting a glamorous yet practical guide.
Selling Sexy: Victoria's Secret and the Unraveling of an American Icon - Lauren Sherman and Chantal Fernandez
Selling Sexy: Victoria’s Secret and the Unraveling of an American Icon by Lauren Sherman and Chantal Fernandez is a gripping, meticulously researched account of the meteoric rise and dramatic decline of Victoria’s Secret, a brand that once defined American retail and beauty standards. At 305 pages, this late-2024 release blends business journalism with cultural analysis, exploring how a small lingerie chain became a global juggernaut—peaking at over $8 billion in annual sales—before faltering under shifting societal values and internal scandals.
The book traces the brand’s origins in the 1970s, when Roy Raymond founded Victoria’s Secret to make lingerie shopping less awkward for men, through its 1982 sale to Les Wexner, whose retail empire (The Limited, Express) transformed it into a cultural force. The authors detail how glamorous catalogs, mall stores, and the iconic Angels fashion show, featuring supermodels like Gisele Bündchen, cemented a narrow, hypersexualized beauty ideal. Yet, as body positivity and inclusivity gained traction, the brand’s failure to adapt—clinging to thinness and fantasy—alienated customers. Compounding this were revelations of a toxic workplace and Wexner’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein, which tainted the brand’s image further. The narrative ends with Victoria’s Secret, now under new ownership, struggling to regain relevance.
Sherman and Fernandez excel at unpacking the retail strategies and cultural impact, with vivid anecdotes (like Trump’s Mar-a-Lago shoot contract) and sharp insights into consumerism. Some readers find the business focus heavy and the Epstein coverage limited, but the prose is engaging, making complex corporate maneuvers accessible. It’s a compelling read for those interested in fashion, retail, or cultural shifts, though its depth on dates and deals might overwhelm casual readers.
CONCLUSION: – A dynamic, well-crafted history that captures Victoria’s Secret’s highs and lows, with sharp cultural commentary, though it leans more corporate than salacious.
This will be updated as we find and read new books!
Last updated: April, 2024