Think you can save a little money and cut corners on the dainties? Oh no, country mouse, oh no.

The right underpinnings are essential to your physical and mental attitude. A French woman will spend as much for underwear as for outerwear.

Wearing beautiful, sexy underwear is like a dirty little secret you get to enjoy all to yourself – and maybe one other person (if they’re lucky). I love knowing that under my all-business white starched shirt and black pencil skirt hides a goddess in a sheer black La Perla bodysuit. It feels as if at any moment I could pull off the glasses and let down my hair and, well, you get the picture.

Choosing the right undergarment for the outfit makes your clothes fit smoothly and properly. Those celebrities you’re admiring for their svelte figure?  Yes they work for an attractive body – not trying to discount that. But guaranteed they are wearing the right undies, and shapewear when called for (and have even been known to double-Spanx when needed.)

On the other hand, having to tug at your waistband to avoid the busted-can-of-biscuits effect or pulling your leg holes from between your butt cheeks is about as sexy as a canker sore.

Le soutien-gorge

Bras should be well-fitted to you. They should be able to be worn comfortably without squishing any back fat. The cups should neither be overflowing nor gapping, and straps should be adjusted so your breasts are located where they belong (the fullest part of your breast should be roughly at the mid-point between your shoulder and elbow.) Any good lingerie store will offer a fitting.

To push up or not to push up? Personally, I’m not a fan of the push-up bra. In the first place, bigger boobs tend to age a woman. I think there’s nothing sexier than a loose fitting, deep-V T-shirt or sweater skimming over natural breasts. But I suppose if you’re very small breasted, or for certain looks, the push-up could be an asset.

Minimally, your must-have bra wardrobe would consist of:

• Black bra, with straps and strapless
• Nude bra, with straps and strapless
• At least one bodysuit, preferably two (black and nude)
• White and colored/print as funds allow

Les culotte

The first rule of panties – no VPL’s (Visible Panty Lines). For many women this means wearing thongs, but I just can’t do it. There are many good alternatives to the thong, such as a lace or soft edged panty.

A fitted skirt or high-waisted trouser calls for high-waisted dainties. But think more Bettie Page, less granny bloomers. High-waisted panties with high cut legs are super sexy. Another great alternative is the bodysuit. For a fitted dress, a body suit is a must. Or nothing. Which is fun sometimes too.

Boy shorts – super cute, made by the devil. I would love to wear them but they ride up … everything. If you can wear them, go for it.

Bra and panties don’t necessarily have to “match”, but they should “go”.  Trust me, you’ll feel better.

Care and Feeding

Your bras and nice dainties should be hand-washed. No time? Do it the French way – take them into the shower with you and wash them there. Easy peasy. If you must wash danties in the washer, use a lingerie bag and never, ever put your bras in the drier!

Your beautiful undergarments are the first layer of feeling confident, sexy and French. Splurge a little, even if it’s just once or twice a week.