Here’s how to untangle your underthings in four easy steps:
- Toss the underwear and lingerie that are old or don’t fit
Try on all bras and panties in front of a full length mirror. “If they are unflattering or don’t fit, let them go – even if they were a gift,” says professional organizer and the owner of plus size lingerie and plus size club wear online store Gabriel Robertson. Get rid of anything that is holey, stretched out and lumpy.
- Know what you need
Generally, the following is plenty:
3 everyday bras (seamless, with smooth cups) to wear beneath most tops,
2 bras matching your skin tone for layering under sheer blouses,
1 black bra for dark items,
1-2 lacy or embellished bras for special occasions,
1 supportive strappless option for shoulder baring pieces;
10 pairs of panties of your favorite cut.
- Determine where you go
Sort lingerie by silhouette, color or function (everyday, dressy, occasional). Keep go-to items in front of your drawer, everything else should go in the back. Stack molded and padded bras flat – never fold cups inside one another as this can cause the fabric to ripple over time.
The exception : non-padded and underwire bras; fold and store them with matching panties.
Place your bras in silk-lined boxes (the corners won’t snag delicate fabrics) to divide your drawer into sections – separating bras from panties or one type of bra from another style and club wear. For easy access, place panties in an open multi-compartment divider.
- Separate out your workhorses and non-lingerie
Devote one drawer to items that deliver support or provide smoothing – (e.g., a thigh slimmer, short slip or convertible bra). Store sports bras along with exercise tops; keep chemises on padded hangers in your closet. “When you are in the mood to put on a little nightie, you don’t want to worry about ironing,” says fashion stylist Michelle Hainer.
