JUN–25–2024
Words by: Megan Chan
Graphic by: Midjourney
Graphic by: Midjourney
When I catch myself browsing through lacey underwear or silky bralettes in public, I’m prone to smirks and suggestive eyebrow raises. Whether that be from others in the store or even the assumptions I create in my own head, I have to brush off the “who are you buying that for?” or “someone’s got a date coming up, huh?” because in reality, most of the time I buy lingerie for me.
Lingerie tends to be clouded in association with the male gaze and impressing others. While it’s enjoyable to look hot for others like a partner, it's equally as valuable to embrace your own sexiness behind closed doors on your own. You don’t have to have a partner to enjoy lingerie. In fact, it’s worth just as much when you’re single. Lingerie is not only another way to express yourself like any other garment, but it can significantly boost your confidence and self esteem. No matter your body type, it can help you celebrate your beauty. Lingerie comes in a multitude of styles that focus on accentuating the different features and curves of the body; and it doesn’t always have to be extremely revealing, coming in a range of modest options as well.
I’ve found that buying lingerie with others’ impressions out of mind is empowering and liberating. It allows me to tap into my own style and wear something intimate that aligns with my personal preferences. Because lingerie is underwear, it's easy to put something on for myself beneath regular clothes, making me feel good without the impact of others knowing. It’s a form of self-care that allows me to love my own unique body and sensuality; a secret boost of confidence that I can keep hidden and secure. On the contrary, lingerie doesn’t always have to be something hidden. I enjoy the fact that it can be worn as another article of clothing in my everyday closet, such as slipping on a cute babydoll top with pants on warmer days.
In a world that often prioritizes external validation, taking the time to buy and wear lingerie for yourself is an act of self-love. It allows you to prioritize your own happiness in a way that you can keep completely to yourself, away from the perception or judgment of others. I’ve found that lingerie helps me cultivate a positive relationship with myself, fostering happiness and self-assurance that spills over into other aspects of my life. While it’s perfectly fine to buy lingerie your partner likes, or what others may think is sexy, it’s equally as important to wear what's hot for you.
Many may think lingerie is worn for the gaze of others, but keep in mind that it can also just be for the gaze of you. Dismiss what others may think because lingerie is about embracing yourself and your beautiful body. Treat yourself. Go buy something sultry to wear just so you can dance in your room. Put on something lacey and take sexy pictures to remind yourself of your own unique allure.
You’re hot! Embrace it.