So, you're ready to dip your toes (or hips) into the world of lingerie? Welcome – you're in the right drawer. 

Whether you’re here to treat yourself, prep for a special moment (hello honeymoon), or finally retire that stretched-out bralette from 2015, building a lingerie collection from scratch doesn’t have to feel intimidating. In fact, it should feel like a little celebration of comfort, confidence, self-love, and your own unique style. 

We’ll walk you through the basics – beginning with soft, classy lingerie that’s easy to fall in love with and helping you find your favorite fits along the way.

Ready to make some lingerie drawer magic? Let’s get into it.

Start with Comfortable Lingerie (Because Feeling Good Is the Point)

Are you new to lingerie? Yes? Know that it’s absolutely normal to feel a little unsure about where to begin, and you’re definitely not alone in that.

If diving straight into a barely-there thong, ultra-padded push-up, or sheer-everything teddy feels like too much too soon, begin with lingerie styles that are effortless to wear, easy to feel good in, and designed to flatter. Start with ones that make you feel positive and relaxed – no need to step that far outside your lingerie comfort zone.

These comfy, confidence-boosting lingerie styles are ideal for your first purchase:

• Teddies: Flattering, fuss-free, and no matching required – just slip one on (like this piece) and go. The fit feels a lot like wearing a comfy swimsuit, making it a super approachable lingerie style for first-timers. Bonus: it looks way fancier than the effort it takes to wear.
• Slip Dresses: Soft, flowy, and effortlessly romantic – perfect for bedtime, getting ready, or even dressed up with a cardigan. They’re beginner-friendly and versatile enough to style beyond the bedroom (check out our blog post on lingerie as outerwear for inspo). We (and our customers!) all have heart eyes for this little lingerie number.
• Bralette Sets: Wire-free, soft, and cute – this style of lingerie is easy to wear daily and comes in tons of flattering styles (we adore this one). A great starting point if you’re new to lingerie and want something both practical and pretty.
• Cami & Shorts Set: Think cute pajamas, but elevated. This matching duo is soft, breathable, and so easy to wear – perfect for lounging, sleeping, or getting a feel for lingerie without going full lace and straps. This is a cozy classic with just the right touch of flirt.
  

MENTIONABLES PROTIP: Look for lingerie featuring soft lace, stretchable fabrics (mesh is great), and adjustable straps to ensure your first piece fits like it was tailored just for you. For more guidance on choosing styles that flatter your shape and help you feel confident in your body, check out this blog post. And don’t miss our bust size guide – it’s a great resource for finding lingerie pieces that showcase your “girls” at their best.

Build a Simple (and Wearable) Lingerie Foundation

Once you’ve bought that first piece, it’s time to start building your lingerie drawer with purpose. 

But that doesn’t mean stuffing it with pieces you’ll rarely reach for. Focus on creating a foundation with classic, versatile lingerie styles that suit your lifestyle and feel great to wear, day in and day out. Think of this as your lingerie starter kit – easy-to-wear favorites that make getting dressed (or undressed) a little more fun and a lot more confident.

Here are a few beginner-friendly lingerie must-haves:

• A neutral bralette and panty set:  Comfortable and versatile, this classic combo is perfect for everyday wear and pairs effortlessly with any outfit. It’s the reliable go-to that keeps your lingerie drawer grounded. Our lacy off-the-shoulder bralette and mesh polka dot panty make the perfect elegant basic duo to start your collection. 
• A romantic piece: Soft lace or mesh in gentle hues like blush, ivory, or pale blue adds a touch of elegance and femininity. Try Mentionables eyelash lace bow bralette and matching eyelash lace bow high-waisted panty; they’re timeless lingerie pieces that make you feel special without being over the top – ideal for when you want to indulge yourself. 
• A playful “fun” piece: Whether it’s a bold color, strappy details, or sheer fabrics, this lingerie piece brings excitement and personality to your collection. It’s made for the days you want your lingerie to shine and to power up your confidence.
  

MENTIONABLES PROTIP: Start small and build slowly – your perfect lingerie drawer grows with you over time. Focus on quality over quantity, choosing well-fitting, comfortable lingerie pieces that will become your go-to favorites. Our bridal lingerie collection? Oh yeah, it totally gets this assignment.

Choose Quality Lingerie Over Quantity

After easing into the world of lingerie, the thrill kicks in – and it’s easy to want everything all at once. 

Just a heads-up: more isn’t always better. You don’t need a drawer full of lingerie to feel confident and well-dressed underneath it all. Start small, focus on the fit and feel of the lingerie, and give yourself time to discover what styles you truly love. A few well-chosen pieces will go a lot further than a pile of impulse buys.

Focus on these essentials to build a lingerie collection you’ll love for the long haul:

• Start with 2–4 versatile pieces: Think bralettes, bodysuits, or matching sets you can pair with other pieces for different looks.
• Pay attention to fabric and fit: Soft lace, stretch materials, and thoughtful designs make a big difference in how confident you feel. 
• Build slowly and intentionally: Add new lingerie styles over time as you figure out what makes you feel best.

MENTIONABLES PROTIP: Care = longevity. Your intimate pretties deserve pampering – we highly recommend hand-washing or tossing them in a mesh bag on cold to keep them looking flawless. Want the full scoop on how to care for your lingerie? Check out our full lingerie care guide here. Remember: quality pieces last far longer with gentle care.

Don’t Be Afraid to Play With Your Lingerie (When You’re Ready)

Now that you have a few go-to pieces that feel like you, it might be time to start exploring outside your comfort zone. 

“Daring” looks different for everyone – what matters is what feels exciting to you. Whether you're experimenting with layering, trying bolder textures, or indulging in a bit of glam just because, let your lingerie be a space for playful self-expression.

Here are a few fun ways to experiment with lingerie when you’re ready:

• Strappy bodysuits: With peekaboo cutouts and unexpected details, these are a bold upgrade from your lingerie basics. Layer a teddy under a blazer, a chunky knit, or a low-cut dress to hint at what’s underneath without revealing it all.
• Mesh or sheer sets: Soft, see-through lingerie styles let you flaunt your shape with confidence. Perfect for embracing your body exactly as it is – no filters, no apologies.
• Lace robes: Romantic and a little extravagant, a lace robe makes even lounging feel luxurious. Toss one on to elevate your mood or make getting ready feel like an event.
• Crotchless pieces: The ultimate power move in lingerie. Whether it’s a bodysuit, panty, or set, crotchless lingerie is all about surprise, confidence, and serving bold energy with a teasing edge.
• Cupless bras or corset tops: Frisky and fearless, these lingerie styles highlight rather than hide. Wear a cupless bra or corset top when you want to feel provocative and fully in control of how much you reveal.
• Harnesses: Edgy and statement-making, a strappy harness adds instant attitude. Wear one over your lingerie when you're in the mood for something unapologetically fierce.

MENTIONABLES PROTIP: There’s no pressure to “go bold”  with your lingerie – but if you’re curious, we say go for it (even if it’s just for you). Trying something new can be a fun way to surprise yourself and rediscover what makes you feel sexy.

Mentionables Lingerie Favorites to Start Your Drawer

Still unsure where to begin your lingerie journey? We’ve got you.

Our first-timer-approved picks make it easy to ease in with lingerie you’ll actually love wearing. Whether you’re dressing up for a moment or just wanting to feel a little more you on an ordinary day, these pieces strike the perfect balance between comfort and confidence. 

An added plus? 

They’re all customer favorites – so you know they’ve been tried, tested, and loved. 

Start with these go-to lingerie styles:

• Lacy Plunge Satin Romper: Cozy enough to sleep in, pretty enough to feel like a treat. It’s where comfort meets delicate romance.
• Lace and Mesh Button Bralette: The essential no-fuss, no-wire, dainty lingerie piece that still makes you feel put-together. A daily fave for a reason.
• Satin and Eyelash Lace Slip: Lightweight, lovely, and ready for anything – whether that’s lounging, layering, or a quiet night in.
• Lacy Dot Mesh Robe: A simple layer that turns any outfit (or no outfit at all) into a moment. Effortlessly elegant, endlessly useful.
  
  

MENTIONABLES PROTIP: Browse our best sellers page for beautifully wearable lingerie styles you’ll feel at ease starting with. And when in doubt, go with the piece you can’t stop thinking about. Your first picks should make you feel excited to wear them – comfort and confidence will follow.

Lingerie Drawer Goals: Unlocked

Building your lingerie drawer doesn’t have to be overwhelming – it should feel like the most stylish kind of self-care. Start with comfort, sprinkle in a little lace (or a lot), and build a lingerie collection that makes you feel amazing on the daily. 

Whether you're just starting out or giving your top drawer a glow-up, you’ve got this – and Mentionables has the pieces to prove it. Ready to start your drawer from scratch? Browse our best sellers and core collection for the lingerie picks everyone’s falling for.

If your lingerie drawer had a name (like a playlist), what would you call it? (We’ll go first: “Lace, please.”) Share yours below!