Before the Industrial Revolution the vast majority of Europeans and Americans wore underwear made from WOOL. Fortunately for us, the Industrial Revolution brought the gift of inexpensive cotton cloth to the masses in the early nineteenth century, and since then undergarments have come a long way-particularly for women. The evolution of women's lingerie has passed through several phases of long drawers, corsets, underskirts and eventually bras to become the attractive easy-to-wear items of today.

Lingerie, the French word for underclothing, now serves a broader purpose than just protecting clothing. Women wear it to feel good and look better in their clothes. Many of today's fashions demand transparent lingerie that does not leave lines or visible seams that ruin the line of clothing. Bras now have smooth molded cups for a natural look. Thongs and sheer seamless panties become invisible under clingy pants, dresses and skirts.

Lingerie is more than just bras, panties, and slips. It also includes night gowns, robes, teddies, slips, stockings, garter belts, waist cinchers, and corsets. For many women the idea of buying risqu items is enticing but they are reluctant to purchases them in stores. Buying high-quality seductive lingerie from on-line shops is easy and offers more sizes, styles, and options. Plus-size lingerie is now available in feminine and attractive styles to fit curvy figures. Good-fitting lingerie will make women look good and feel good about themselves.

For weddings and holidays lingerie makes a perfect gift. Gifts of lingerie are romantic and intimate and go nicely with perfumes and other luxuries. Sexy, risqu or transparent lingerie appeals to both men and women and it adds some sizzle to couples' love life. To find styles and sizes that will suit the woman in your life do a little research. Many companies offer moderately-priced, high-quality items. With a little time and care you can find the ideal present.