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In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie
A comprehensive and accessible illustrated guide to lingerie from intimates expert Cora Harrington, founder of The Lingerie Addict, the internet's top intimate apparel blog.
While many women love the idea of wearing special underthings, the world of lingerie can seem intimidating, overwhelming, and even unwelcoming. Where should I shop? How do I know if I'm wearing the wrong bra size? How are things supposed to fit? How do you take care of it all? If I don't have a model fit body or a partner, should I even bother with anything nice under my clothes? Lingerie expert and founder of TheLingerieAddict.com, Cora Harrington uses her deep knowledge, reassuring tone, and empowering attitude to show readers that nice underthings are for everyone--no matter your size, age, identity, or budget. In Intimate Detail is a complete guide to everything you need to know about shopping for, wearing, and caring for every type of intimate--from basic bras and panties to hosiery, special occasion wear, shapewear, corsets, and more. In this beautifully packaged and richly illustrated guide, Cora demystifies lingerie, making it accessible to people of all backgrounds, shapes, sizes, and ages, empowering them to confidently shop for, wear, and care for the underpinnings of their dreams.
While many women love the idea of wearing special underthings, the world of lingerie can seem intimidating, overwhelming, and even unwelcoming. Where should I shop? How do I know if I'm wearing the wrong bra size? How are things supposed to fit? How do you take care of it all? If I don't have a model fit body or a partner, should I even bother with anything nice under my clothes? Lingerie expert and founder of TheLingerieAddict.com, Cora Harrington uses her deep knowledge, reassuring tone, and empowering attitude to show readers that nice underthings are for everyone--no matter your size, age, identity, or budget. In Intimate Detail is a complete guide to everything you need to know about shopping for, wearing, and caring for every type of intimate--from basic bras and panties to hosiery, special occasion wear, shapewear, corsets, and more. In this beautifully packaged and richly illustrated guide, Cora demystifies lingerie, making it accessible to people of all backgrounds, shapes, sizes, and ages, empowering them to confidently shop for, wear, and care for the underpinnings of their dreams.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2018
128 people are currently reading
1664 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
August 26, 2018
I found this to be a wonderful book about all things lingerie. If you have an interest in the subject, this is a great guide. You will learn all about everything you will need to know to measure first, then buy what you need and then maintain it. You'll even understand all about the different kinds of lingerie out there, everything from stockings to bras, robes to shapewear. I never knew there was so much to know about just bras for example, and this is a great guide for them.
The purpose and history of lingerie are covered, along with so much practical information you can use in selecting it, either for yourself or as a gift based on body types and ruling out what does and doesn’t work for each. This book is just filled with great advice whether you are trying to tell the difference between a thong and a g-string or boy shorts and hipsters, or a waist cincher, a corset and a corselette. An advance electronic copy was provided by #Netgalley and author Cora Harrington, and the publisher for my fair review.
Ten Speed Press
Pub: August 28, 2018
My Bookzone blog on Wordpress.com: https://wordpress.com/post/bookblog20...
The purpose and history of lingerie are covered, along with so much practical information you can use in selecting it, either for yourself or as a gift based on body types and ruling out what does and doesn’t work for each. This book is just filled with great advice whether you are trying to tell the difference between a thong and a g-string or boy shorts and hipsters, or a waist cincher, a corset and a corselette. An advance electronic copy was provided by #Netgalley and author Cora Harrington, and the publisher for my fair review.
Ten Speed Press
Pub: August 28, 2018
My Bookzone blog on Wordpress.com: https://wordpress.com/post/bookblog20...
October 14, 2019
Very little new content for me in this very pretty book. This might be helpful to people with specific lingerie-fitting issues, or very new to the topic, or people who wear T-shirt bras during the day and oversize T-shirts at night, and want to update their lingerie wardrobe. If you are none of the above, and have been an adult for a while and/ or wore some lingerie models and styles that are not entirely mainstream, you might be disappointed.
I'd suggests you read Paris Undressed. The Secrets of French Lingerie by Kathryn Kemp-Griffin instead. It has a really informative chapter on stockings and garterbelts (which I am qualified to judge), very solid chapters on lace and materials, and pretty good everything else.
I'd suggests you read Paris Undressed. The Secrets of French Lingerie by Kathryn Kemp-Griffin instead. It has a really informative chapter on stockings and garterbelts (which I am qualified to judge), very solid chapters on lace and materials, and pretty good everything else.
June 30, 2018
There are a lot of books on Lingerie. Most of them are about a specific type of lingerie or about how to make it. It is a complex subject, moreso than I think most people realize. Even having done quite a lot of independent research into vintage lingerie and corsets over the years for cosplaying and retro reenactment events, I never considered just how varied lingerie was... I never stepped back and looked at it as a whole. In Intimate Detail made me do that. It is nothing less than a comprehensive guide to lingerie for the modern woman. This book is amazing in several key ways. I'll give a summary of whats available in the book. I'll tell you what I like best about it and I will tell you who I think should read it. Then, stay tuned for final thoughts. I did receive an Advance copy of the book for review. This is my complete and honest opinion about the book.
This book is broken down into several sections; Bras, Underwear, Shapewear, Hosiery, Loungewear, How to shop both in store and online, and care of your Lingerie. I found that all of them are comprehensive without feeling like you are slogging through a non fiction book. It's narrated by the author in a light hearted, kindly professor sort of way. You know those amazing teachers you only get to take a class from once who are passionate and are very good at explaining something without making you feel stupid? Then by the end of the explanation, you realize you are just as passionate about that subject? Yeah, that's Cora Harrington.
Within each section on the main categories of lingerie, she breaks it down into historical evolution (something I find fascinating myself), basic information, main types of that category as well as some good guidelines to follow... best practices, if you will. There is also appendices which sounds droll but actually is a great, easy-to-navigate resource on bra sizing, underwear concerns, and what a good basic set of Lingerie should be to start.
What I like best? There are 3 main things about this book that I find make it worthy to read:
1. While she is inclusive and body positive throughout the whole book, she has important sections in the appendices that really shine for inclusivity. She has sections for mastectomy fitting, trans/non-binary fitting, pregnancy/maternity, physical disabilities, fibromyalgia and other ailments, binders, breast augmentation, etc and give tips on navigating those special concerns when looking for and purchasing lingerie. There is no judgement in these pages. You can tell that Cora Harrington just wants to share her passion with you and help you find what's going to suit you best.
2. It's easy enough to read... entertaining enough to read, that your teenager who is just starting to wear real bras could read it but also any veteran of wearing lingerie would get something out of it. The Lingerie Addict Blog, started by Harrington, is a perfect companion to this book. My recommendation is that you should start with the book and go to the Blog to learn more. There is nothing else like it out there in one easy to reference place. I will find myself referencing this book probably for the rest of my life. It is such a handy guide.
3. There is no mention of lingerie brands in the book except brief historical citation. The book isn't about selling you anything. Its about educating and helping you, the reader.
What I do not like: I would have liked to see the Corset section have more in it and have illustrations.
In Intimate Detail is a book that educates in a cute, intellectual way. It is not hard to read. There are beautiful illustrations to help give visual representation to subject matter. It's inclusive and helpful for an array of troubles one might find in their journey to love lingerie and love their bodies in lingerie. I highly recommend this book. It was so good, I can't wait to buy the finished version; have it in my hands and on my shelf. I was starting to love lingerie before... Now... I am obsessed!
This book is broken down into several sections; Bras, Underwear, Shapewear, Hosiery, Loungewear, How to shop both in store and online, and care of your Lingerie. I found that all of them are comprehensive without feeling like you are slogging through a non fiction book. It's narrated by the author in a light hearted, kindly professor sort of way. You know those amazing teachers you only get to take a class from once who are passionate and are very good at explaining something without making you feel stupid? Then by the end of the explanation, you realize you are just as passionate about that subject? Yeah, that's Cora Harrington.
Within each section on the main categories of lingerie, she breaks it down into historical evolution (something I find fascinating myself), basic information, main types of that category as well as some good guidelines to follow... best practices, if you will. There is also appendices which sounds droll but actually is a great, easy-to-navigate resource on bra sizing, underwear concerns, and what a good basic set of Lingerie should be to start.
What I like best? There are 3 main things about this book that I find make it worthy to read:
1. While she is inclusive and body positive throughout the whole book, she has important sections in the appendices that really shine for inclusivity. She has sections for mastectomy fitting, trans/non-binary fitting, pregnancy/maternity, physical disabilities, fibromyalgia and other ailments, binders, breast augmentation, etc and give tips on navigating those special concerns when looking for and purchasing lingerie. There is no judgement in these pages. You can tell that Cora Harrington just wants to share her passion with you and help you find what's going to suit you best.
2. It's easy enough to read... entertaining enough to read, that your teenager who is just starting to wear real bras could read it but also any veteran of wearing lingerie would get something out of it. The Lingerie Addict Blog, started by Harrington, is a perfect companion to this book. My recommendation is that you should start with the book and go to the Blog to learn more. There is nothing else like it out there in one easy to reference place. I will find myself referencing this book probably for the rest of my life. It is such a handy guide.
3. There is no mention of lingerie brands in the book except brief historical citation. The book isn't about selling you anything. Its about educating and helping you, the reader.
What I do not like: I would have liked to see the Corset section have more in it and have illustrations.
In Intimate Detail is a book that educates in a cute, intellectual way. It is not hard to read. There are beautiful illustrations to help give visual representation to subject matter. It's inclusive and helpful for an array of troubles one might find in their journey to love lingerie and love their bodies in lingerie. I highly recommend this book. It was so good, I can't wait to buy the finished version; have it in my hands and on my shelf. I was starting to love lingerie before... Now... I am obsessed!
October 12, 2018
This book is a long-awaited guide that has filled quite a gap in the literature on this subject. I'll be recommending this book to everyone I know with an interest in fashion, women's history, fiber arts, and self-care. Harrington's voice throughout the book is that of the wisest and kindest girlfriend one could find. Her passion spills over on these pages, and it's not just a passion for lingerie; it's a passion for femme folk to love themselves and treat themselves with tenderness. This guide is bursting with practical, no-nonsense information about how to measure for a bra, wash delicate items without ruining them, and wear a garter belt properly (knickers over the garters). But its true nature is as a love letter to softness: soft bodies, soft fabrics, soft treatment of the self and others. In addition, Harrington took great care to be inclusive, and I was delighted to see detailed and thoughtful sections on choosing lingerie for trans* bodies, disabled bodies, and so many other kinds of bodies.
And, of course, the watercolor illustrations of lingerie are gorgeous, though I wish there were twice as many of them!
And, of course, the watercolor illustrations of lingerie are gorgeous, though I wish there were twice as many of them!
July 17, 2020
'...Lingerie should never be painful to wear or a source of shame.' - Cora Harrington.
A true advocate for shaping up how lingerie can be constructed and deconstructed, Cora Harrington's commitment to inclusivity reigns true through her credible work. As a Queer, Black woman living in America, Cora elevates how vintage aesthetic and lingerie should accessible and visible for all genders and all races.
Published in 2018, 'In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear and Love Lingerie' landed on my lap in 2020 as if to remind myself how the lingerie industry is improving or at the very least, the wheels are in motion to celebrate and provide comfort for those who have found lingerie shopping a challenge. I'm a part time lover of lingerie and have found a realm of wonderful websites as recommended from The Lingerie Addict newsletter for an extra comfortable, confident boost for myself. The book projects an insightful understanding on how we choose lingerie to suit a variety of bodies. She dives into the history and answers all questions that ring through ears all those times you've silently waltz through the bra section.
This was a wonderful purchase to refresh my mind on how we look, talk and feel about lingerie. The glossary of terms have helped me discover a beautiful range of pieces reflecting the vintage aesthetic which I grow to admire. The illustrations are an exquisite touch, I especially enjoyed the breakdown of corsets and how they have progressed throughout history as well as didi bonus tips for anyone wanting to grow their collection.
If you're curious about lingerie, beginner to lingerie, expert of lingerie I would definitely recommend this empowering book.
x
Cora Harrington
A true advocate for shaping up how lingerie can be constructed and deconstructed, Cora Harrington's commitment to inclusivity reigns true through her credible work. As a Queer, Black woman living in America, Cora elevates how vintage aesthetic and lingerie should accessible and visible for all genders and all races.
Published in 2018, 'In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear and Love Lingerie' landed on my lap in 2020 as if to remind myself how the lingerie industry is improving or at the very least, the wheels are in motion to celebrate and provide comfort for those who have found lingerie shopping a challenge. I'm a part time lover of lingerie and have found a realm of wonderful websites as recommended from The Lingerie Addict newsletter for an extra comfortable, confident boost for myself. The book projects an insightful understanding on how we choose lingerie to suit a variety of bodies. She dives into the history and answers all questions that ring through ears all those times you've silently waltz through the bra section.
This was a wonderful purchase to refresh my mind on how we look, talk and feel about lingerie. The glossary of terms have helped me discover a beautiful range of pieces reflecting the vintage aesthetic which I grow to admire. The illustrations are an exquisite touch, I especially enjoyed the breakdown of corsets and how they have progressed throughout history as well as didi bonus tips for anyone wanting to grow their collection.
If you're curious about lingerie, beginner to lingerie, expert of lingerie I would definitely recommend this empowering book.
x
Cora Harrington
December 24, 2019
Being a lingerie specialist for so long, I knew a very large majority of this already but the way she explains and lays it all out is very down to earth and nonthreatening for those who might have more questions.
July 24, 2018
Full disclosure - I pre-ordered this book on Amazon the moment I learned it was coming out because I love The Lingerie Addict & Cora. I received a PR copy before it was released.
If you've ever wanted to get into lingerie but you were overwhelmed by the options, In Intimate Detail is the book to start with! Cora shares her wealth of knowledge in an easy to understand way. I personally really appreciate her body positive attitude that is reflected throughout the book. Her section on bras and breast shape is a must-read! I also agree and love her loungewear advice. Her tips for how to shop for lingerie have been extremely helpful, too!
If you've ever wanted to get into lingerie but you were overwhelmed by the options, In Intimate Detail is the book to start with! Cora shares her wealth of knowledge in an easy to understand way. I personally really appreciate her body positive attitude that is reflected throughout the book. Her section on bras and breast shape is a must-read! I also agree and love her loungewear advice. Her tips for how to shop for lingerie have been extremely helpful, too!
August 19, 2020
I have followed Cora's blog and social media for a while, and I love her expertise. I feel like this book is a good "best of" with information on how to size, shop, and care for lingerie and loungewear in what feels to me like a not-scary and non-judgy way. I feel like this is a book that I could give a friend who doesn't know how to go bra shopping or is a little intimidated by lingerie. This can go on my shelf next to other style and fashion guides. Some other reviewers mention that this doesn't go too much in depth about history or construction, but those are topics for other books. This is a book that would be accessible to someone who wants to learn from a friend. Highly recommend.
July 5, 2020
She is a friendly writer and with simple language explains important details.
A great book, feminine and practical.
A great book, feminine and practical.
January 18, 2024
This book is GORGEOUS! The artwork is delightful, the entire book is so inclusive for all bodies and genders- I’ve always been a firm believer that anyone who wants to wear lingerie should wear the lingerie! This book has wonderful tips and information.
It’s super informative too - apparently I’ve been wearing the wrong sized bras… ever since I’ve started wearing them. I say “wrong size” I should say drastically, comically wrong size. Hello neck aches, shoulder aches, back aches, and head aches! No wonder you’ve plagued me.
It’s super informative too - apparently I’ve been wearing the wrong sized bras… ever since I’ve started wearing them. I say “wrong size” I should say drastically, comically wrong size. Hello neck aches, shoulder aches, back aches, and head aches! No wonder you’ve plagued me.
October 17, 2020
I knew most of the contents already, but it was delightful to read, relaxing and pleasant. Information is well put together, nothing is sloppy and even as non-native speaker I found it very easy to follow. And the illustrations felt very fitting and inspiring.
August 16, 2019
In Intimate Detail
How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie
Cora Harrington
Foreword by Dita Von Teese
Ten Speed Press, Aug 2018
152 pages
Intimate Fashion, Fashion Reference
Provided by NetGalley & purchased at sale price on Amazon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a partial copy of this book to read for review from NetGalley when I got it. At the time, I was still very new to reviewing. I read what I had and set it aside. The copy was only a few odd-numbered chapters and some of the bibliographies and appendices from the back of the book. Some of the printing was goofed up in it as if sending it had screwed it up. There were very few illustrations included in it. I kept meaning to look at the book at the library or bookstore to see what it was really like “in-person” but never got around to it. Recently I have been cleaning up my overdue reviews and this is one of them. So I took a look at the price of it on Amazon and hit the 1-Click button to have it delivered the next day. It’s a book that I have always wanted to have the hardcover copy of, so now was the time. Read the whole book, review it, and keep it handy on my shelf. It’s also a book you can share with other friends as you wish, or as needed. So now I have it in hand, have read it, and can review it better.
The cover is absolutely lovely with its blush watercolor background and the exquisite set of black lace cami and panties. So simple with just the title, subtitle and author’s name added in black fonts. The blush color has an eggshell finish while the black of the title is high gloss. The pages inside are very thick, heavy paper which feels lovely and rich as you turn the pages. The lingerie illustrations throughout the book are done by Sandy Wirt and are simply stunning.
The Foreword by Dita Von Teese is perfect for this book. She lures you into the book and you follow willingly.
The author stays away from the pitfalls of brands and rules of any kind. What she does in each section is provide a brief history and then move into some information on construction to help wearers understand how the garments work. Ms. Harrington then explains the various types of each garment and their special functions or fits or whatever each is specific for. There is no coyness, no wordplay here. This is straight forward design talk about garments we all wear at one time or another. Once Ms. Harrington has finished telling us about lingerie, she then goes on to explain how to launder it and why this is the best way to do it. Also how to store it and why. She covers briefly the requirements of people with special needs due to alternate lifestyles or medical needs. There is a bibliography for more sources if you are interested in deeper reading on the subject of lingerie. There are several charts of additional information. Overall, this is an elegant little reference that would be at home on your bedside table, your bookshelf, or your living room coffee table. It’s one I highly recommend as a personal purchase or as a charming gift.
How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie
Cora Harrington
Foreword by Dita Von Teese
Ten Speed Press, Aug 2018
152 pages
Intimate Fashion, Fashion Reference
Provided by NetGalley & purchased at sale price on Amazon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a partial copy of this book to read for review from NetGalley when I got it. At the time, I was still very new to reviewing. I read what I had and set it aside. The copy was only a few odd-numbered chapters and some of the bibliographies and appendices from the back of the book. Some of the printing was goofed up in it as if sending it had screwed it up. There were very few illustrations included in it. I kept meaning to look at the book at the library or bookstore to see what it was really like “in-person” but never got around to it. Recently I have been cleaning up my overdue reviews and this is one of them. So I took a look at the price of it on Amazon and hit the 1-Click button to have it delivered the next day. It’s a book that I have always wanted to have the hardcover copy of, so now was the time. Read the whole book, review it, and keep it handy on my shelf. It’s also a book you can share with other friends as you wish, or as needed. So now I have it in hand, have read it, and can review it better.
The cover is absolutely lovely with its blush watercolor background and the exquisite set of black lace cami and panties. So simple with just the title, subtitle and author’s name added in black fonts. The blush color has an eggshell finish while the black of the title is high gloss. The pages inside are very thick, heavy paper which feels lovely and rich as you turn the pages. The lingerie illustrations throughout the book are done by Sandy Wirt and are simply stunning.
The Foreword by Dita Von Teese is perfect for this book. She lures you into the book and you follow willingly.
The author stays away from the pitfalls of brands and rules of any kind. What she does in each section is provide a brief history and then move into some information on construction to help wearers understand how the garments work. Ms. Harrington then explains the various types of each garment and their special functions or fits or whatever each is specific for. There is no coyness, no wordplay here. This is straight forward design talk about garments we all wear at one time or another. Once Ms. Harrington has finished telling us about lingerie, she then goes on to explain how to launder it and why this is the best way to do it. Also how to store it and why. She covers briefly the requirements of people with special needs due to alternate lifestyles or medical needs. There is a bibliography for more sources if you are interested in deeper reading on the subject of lingerie. There are several charts of additional information. Overall, this is an elegant little reference that would be at home on your bedside table, your bookshelf, or your living room coffee table. It’s one I highly recommend as a personal purchase or as a charming gift.
December 9, 2019
I am not a woman, and I don't wear women's lingerie, and I don't have sufficiently intimate relationships with any women to buy them underwear, either. Despite this, I still really enjoyed this book.
First off, it's just a beautiful physical object in its own right - a substantial but not heavy hard cover, with lovely illustrations and a ribbon place marker.
Secondly, I read this because I already follow Cora Harrington on her site and on Twitter, and I appreciate the very even keel to how she writes. There's a balance between ideology and practicality I love, as well as an attention to detail and an incorporation of historical context.
If you already know a lot about lingerie, this book likely won't have much new to offer you - it's fairly basic (even I already knew a lot of the information, from having read her site). However, if you're looking to contextualize what you already know, or have a limited lingerie wardrobe, or just want to know more about the subject - you cannot go wrong.
First off, it's just a beautiful physical object in its own right - a substantial but not heavy hard cover, with lovely illustrations and a ribbon place marker.
Secondly, I read this because I already follow Cora Harrington on her site and on Twitter, and I appreciate the very even keel to how she writes. There's a balance between ideology and practicality I love, as well as an attention to detail and an incorporation of historical context.
If you already know a lot about lingerie, this book likely won't have much new to offer you - it's fairly basic (even I already knew a lot of the information, from having read her site). However, if you're looking to contextualize what you already know, or have a limited lingerie wardrobe, or just want to know more about the subject - you cannot go wrong.
July 8, 2018
This is one of the most comprehensive guides that I have ever read on lingerie. I'm not someone who knows a lot about lingerie, but I felt my knowledge was definitely increased by reading Harrington's book. The author does a great job of breaking down the different components of lingerie including bras, underwear, shapewear, hosiery, etc. She covers it all. There are sections about finding the perfect fit for various body sizes and how to get the most longevity out of your lingerie with a care and storage section. Illustrations are included not only to add aesthetic pleasure to the look of the book, but to give the reader an idea of the different body types covered and which one might closely match ones own. As one reviewer mentioned the author takes the time to be inclusive with a focus on body positivity. In the margins are bonus tips with copious amounts of information, from when the best time is to buy lingerie to advice on overcoming issues with a bra. I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to gain a familiarity with lingerie and find the best fit for them. I plan on buying the hardcover when its released, just to see the final product.
Disclosure: I received a free galley copy for an honest review.
Disclosure: I received a free galley copy for an honest review.
May 1, 2018
Full disclosure: I was given an advance copy. I will be buying and giving this as a gift . The book is well organized and a good balance between history about lingerie and lingerie itself. I read the book two times, and I will look at it as a resource for buying lingerie. I enjoyed the author's writing style and tone. The author made me laugh and gave me information at the same time.
The chapters were well organized. I especially enjoyed the Introduction. The bonus tips are worth reading. (Everything in this book is worth reading.)
The chapters were well organized. I especially enjoyed the Introduction. The bonus tips are worth reading. (Everything in this book is worth reading.)
January 23, 2019
Besides having a love-hate (but mostly hate) relationship with my bras due to how much good ones in my size cost, I don't spend a lot of time thinking about bras (and other undies). This book provided a lot of background in clothing that I completely take for granted, and gave me insight on a lot of things related to lingerie, including why people make their own (I'm seeing this more and more online and am intrigued). If you are a lingerie-wearer or aficionado, this is the book you didn't know you needed but do.
September 18, 2018
Maybe I need to find a book for aging lingerie addicts.. Seems like a lot was left out -- slips, corsets, Merry Widows, and other high end and vintage stuff. There have got to be more bra styles and.....well, panties. I have four drawers, maybe five, devoted to bras alone.
Attractive book, but not a How to.
Attractive book, but not a How to.
January 24, 2023
Sometimes I feel like around age 12 every woman I know was invited to a party where all kinds of secrets were revealed, and for some reason I didn't get the invite. Sometimes I feel like that party happened even earlier, like when I was 5 or 6. Reading this book was like being given a 30 minute window to observe the party - very informative, yet there's still so much to learn.
In some ways this book was about how objects, when chosen carefully and cared for, can be immensely important in our lives. My gut still tells me, "That's consumerist, that's materialistic, you shouldn't waste your money on stuff," but my gut is wrong. I think that when I stopped shopping I did myself a great disservice, and I lost something (a sense of style?) that was a huge part of my identity growing up.
I'm really excited to go to some local lingerie shops and try on a ton of bras until I find 3 or more that I love (apparently I don't own enough bras.) I'm excited to re-explore my love of tights and also look into above the knee stockings. I'm going to buy some type of babydoll or teddy and I might even get a robe. I'm going to get 7 pairs of black panties just to wear on my period. And I'm going to rearrange my underwear drawer and remind myself that what I wear matters.
Sidenote: Harrington also discusses the history of different types of lingerie, which is how I learned that Western women didn't wear panties of any kind for a long time, because that would've been seen as wearing pants, therefore masculine. Then, when early panties were invented, they were literally crotchless until the 1920s when dresses got too short for having your vagina exposed. Also, in the 1930s there was a stocking shortage and women were so unwilling to expose their bare legs to the world that they would dye their legs and draw a pretend seam up the back. Unbelievable!
In some ways this book was about how objects, when chosen carefully and cared for, can be immensely important in our lives. My gut still tells me, "That's consumerist, that's materialistic, you shouldn't waste your money on stuff," but my gut is wrong. I think that when I stopped shopping I did myself a great disservice, and I lost something (a sense of style?) that was a huge part of my identity growing up.
I'm really excited to go to some local lingerie shops and try on a ton of bras until I find 3 or more that I love (apparently I don't own enough bras.) I'm excited to re-explore my love of tights and also look into above the knee stockings. I'm going to buy some type of babydoll or teddy and I might even get a robe. I'm going to get 7 pairs of black panties just to wear on my period. And I'm going to rearrange my underwear drawer and remind myself that what I wear matters.
Sidenote: Harrington also discusses the history of different types of lingerie, which is how I learned that Western women didn't wear panties of any kind for a long time, because that would've been seen as wearing pants, therefore masculine. Then, when early panties were invented, they were literally crotchless until the 1920s when dresses got too short for having your vagina exposed. Also, in the 1930s there was a stocking shortage and women were so unwilling to expose their bare legs to the world that they would dye their legs and draw a pretend seam up the back. Unbelievable!
June 9, 2024
cute!!! fantasizing about having a drawer filled with pretti matching sets, le sigh
November 13, 2019
A fabulous book to help you understans the world of lingerie.
September 1, 2020
This book has lovely illustrations. Truly. And if you want a lovely book for your shelf or your nightstand that commemorates your affinity for lingerie, this is an excellent choice.
Likewise, if you are new to lingerie, or if you want to love it but don't know if it's possible for you, the gentle encouragement here might provide the support you need to give beautiful undergarments a try.
If you already love and wear pretty underthings, this book gives plenty of permission to continue and to add to your collection, if permission is what you're looking for.
This book is not a technical treatise that explains the engineering of undergarments (bra construction theory, really) which is really what I wanted. But with the lovely illustrations and ribbon bookmark.
Likewise, if you are new to lingerie, or if you want to love it but don't know if it's possible for you, the gentle encouragement here might provide the support you need to give beautiful undergarments a try.
If you already love and wear pretty underthings, this book gives plenty of permission to continue and to add to your collection, if permission is what you're looking for.
This book is not a technical treatise that explains the engineering of undergarments (bra construction theory, really) which is really what I wanted. But with the lovely illustrations and ribbon bookmark.
April 19, 2019
This book was excellent! I'm slightly biased because I've been following Cora's blog, The Lingerie Addict, for years but even if you're new to lingerie, this is a fabulous read. Super comprehensive and inclusive, not to mention it has beautiful illustrations. This is a great read for anyone who's ever wanted to invest in a good piece of lingerie, but has been intimidated by a price tag or the variety of styles available, as Harrington breaks down all of the information you need to find the perfect bra, undies, or piece of loungewear. Highly recommend :)
February 13, 2020
Great rundown of lingerie.
Read
November 25, 2020this was very useful. or, at least, it WILL be useful once i can go out shopping for bras.
June 1, 2018
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I thought this book as fantastic! Lingerie as a whole can be intimidating. There is so much to know and Cora does an awesome job, as usual, breaking it down beautifully and simply. This makes it perfect for me since all I know about undergarments are my bust and sister sizes. This book has armed with more knowledge than I ever thought possible. But if you're familiar with Cora's blog then you already know the level of informative detail that will be found on pretty watercolor pages of this book.
I also fully agree with another commenter who stated Dita's forward and the book as a whole is about using lingerie as a way to love yourself, and not about finding a partner. This is exactly what
In Intimate Detail is about and I walked away from it with a new found love, understanding and excitement about lingerie.
In a nutshell, this book like a floor-length white silk nightgown is timeless.
I thought this book as fantastic! Lingerie as a whole can be intimidating. There is so much to know and Cora does an awesome job, as usual, breaking it down beautifully and simply. This makes it perfect for me since all I know about undergarments are my bust and sister sizes. This book has armed with more knowledge than I ever thought possible. But if you're familiar with Cora's blog then you already know the level of informative detail that will be found on pretty watercolor pages of this book.
I also fully agree with another commenter who stated Dita's forward and the book as a whole is about using lingerie as a way to love yourself, and not about finding a partner. This is exactly what
In Intimate Detail is about and I walked away from it with a new found love, understanding and excitement about lingerie.
In a nutshell, this book like a floor-length white silk nightgown is timeless.
May 26, 2018
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely loved this book and I think everyone should read! I love how the foreword (by the great Dita von Teese) and the entire book is about lingerie as a way of loving yourself, not a way to get a partner.
From the start, the book is honest about the fact that no book will find the perfect bra for you, and that you have to go on a long quest of trial and error to find the perfect bra or any other item of lingerie. This book offers you knowledge about all shapes, sizes, cups, fabrics and styles and everything! Furthermore, the book offers advice for trans people too and their first pieces of lingerie.
I learned so much and I loved the watercolor illustrations.
I absolutely loved this book and I think everyone should read! I love how the foreword (by the great Dita von Teese) and the entire book is about lingerie as a way of loving yourself, not a way to get a partner.
From the start, the book is honest about the fact that no book will find the perfect bra for you, and that you have to go on a long quest of trial and error to find the perfect bra or any other item of lingerie. This book offers you knowledge about all shapes, sizes, cups, fabrics and styles and everything! Furthermore, the book offers advice for trans people too and their first pieces of lingerie.
I learned so much and I loved the watercolor illustrations.
September 17, 2018
An intimate detail is both a beautiful and complete work. Sandy Wirt’s illustrations sumptuously underling the rich detail in this perfectly succinct book. Harrington’s writing style is both complete and approachable, which is important when approaching a subject that can sometimes be intimidating. The genius of this book is that it manages to run the gamut from basic knowledge those new to the industry, to more detailed information for those in the industry, all in an inclusive and modern fashion. To quote Harrington “Lingerie isn’t intimate apparel just because it’s hidden; it’s intimate because it can reflect your innermost self, your secret identity. That’s powerful.”
This book is the perfect marriage between the romantic and the pragmatic.
This book is the perfect marriage between the romantic and the pragmatic.
February 22, 2019
I voraciously ate up this book. I’ve loved lingerie for years and this is my first book about lingerie. Harrington is not only one of the most body-positive bloggers out there but she also is intersectional in that she includes helpful advice for pregnant people, lactating people, non-binary people, disabled people, menopausal people, people recovering from surgery, far people, and the list goes on. I wish more people would read this book, even people who don’t wear lingerie because a lot of credit isn’t given where credit is due (especially seamstresses). This book is a little bit of everything; it contains fashion history, what Harrington’s first exposures to lingerie, persuasive narratives on why lingerie should be about yourself first, a guide to giving lingerie as a gift, et cetera.
July 18, 2019
Probably isn't going to change anyone's life, but a thoroughly enjoyable read. I've been reading heavier stuff and this was a nice break.
There's the history of the different items (bras, corsets, etc.) as well as how to care for them. It is addressed solely to the wearer of the garments in question and little or no regard to anyone seeing them--not what I expected. VERY pleased with that. The author doesn't seem opposed to the idea, but her focus isn't on audience, after all. It's all about the satisfaction and pleasure of the person wearing lingerie.
Favorite small tip: getting a week's worth of black underwear for that time of the month. I'm almost 48 years old and am embarrassed I didn't think of it.
There's the history of the different items (bras, corsets, etc.) as well as how to care for them. It is addressed solely to the wearer of the garments in question and little or no regard to anyone seeing them--not what I expected. VERY pleased with that. The author doesn't seem opposed to the idea, but her focus isn't on audience, after all. It's all about the satisfaction and pleasure of the person wearing lingerie.
Favorite small tip: getting a week's worth of black underwear for that time of the month. I'm almost 48 years old and am embarrassed I didn't think of it.
September 5, 2018
I pre-ordered this book, as a fan of Cora Harrington’s blog The Lingerie Addict, and looked forward to it for months. It didn’t disappoint! From
the charming foreword by Dita Von Teese to the helpful appendices in the back, it serves up both delightfully helpful information infused with nuggets of fascinating historical information, and inclusive sections on concerns such as shopping for trans people and mastectomy bra wearers. It’s full of gorgeous illustrations by Sandy Wirt. It’s a lovely book for anyone, whether a lingerie novice or dedicated aficionado. If you wear underwear, or know someone who does, I highly recommend it!
the charming foreword by Dita Von Teese to the helpful appendices in the back, it serves up both delightfully helpful information infused with nuggets of fascinating historical information, and inclusive sections on concerns such as shopping for trans people and mastectomy bra wearers. It’s full of gorgeous illustrations by Sandy Wirt. It’s a lovely book for anyone, whether a lingerie novice or dedicated aficionado. If you wear underwear, or know someone who does, I highly recommend it!
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