Functional, sexy, elegant or all of the above – you can find any kind of lingerie your heart desires in Melbourne’s best lingerie shops
Looking to freshen up your collection of intimates? The best purveyors of delicates know thatlingerie is important, whether you’re wearing it to be seen or just for yourself – a statement, supportive or discreet. When your old, misshapen undies just aren’t doing you justice any more, where can you turn?
Well, Melbourne is a fashion destination, and that extends to the clothing you wear closest to your skin. These stores across the city specialise in everything from silken sleepwear, to suggestive mesh and fishnets, to supportive and flattering bras for busts large and small.
Lacy, vintage-inspired lingerie sets with the Kylie Jenner tick of approval. Located in Cremorne, Kat the Label is in the business of helping you feel your best in romantic intimates that don’t sacrifice comfort. Sustainable practices and affordability are brand cornerstones too.
Price: $$
Best for: lace-adorned, barely-there sets that won’t dig in.
Extra small to plus sized busts will find their perfect match at Illusions Lingerie in Moonee Ponds. The store is renowned by Melbournites for its stellar customer service, so rest easy knowing you’ll leave with a bra you love that fits like a dream. Plus, the business is making innovative strides in the underwear realm, recently launching a new brand called Tuck & Bind, offering gender-affirming undergarments tailored for transgender people.
Price: $$$
Best for: professional fittings and a broad range of bras, shapewear and sleepwear.
The child of lingerie designer, Jane Carrodus, and entrepreneur, Vicky Marcoulis. Their strappy ‘fashion lingerie’ is made to be seen – from breathtaking lace and mesh to ornate balconettes. Stock up on sheer clothing now to give your purchases the limelight they deserve.
Price: $$$
Best for: sexy and luxurious silk lingerie and sleepwear.
Specialising in D-K cup sizes, Brava was created by founders Lin and Maxine Windram to do away with “granny bras” being the only option for those with larger chests. Those days are gone – Brava stocks lacy, shaping and supportive bras in any style you could dream of at their three stores in Camberwell, Hampton and Highpoint shopping centre.
Price: $$$
Best for: D-K cup sizes and expert fittings.
The oft-reviled sports bra has gotten a much-needed makeover thanks to She Science founder Tish Tilly. Head to the Hawthorn East boutique to finally, finally discover a sports bra that fits and feels good. Though it’s not all they stock – the brand is about feeling comfortable and confident in every scenario.
Price: $$$
Best for: innovative sports and everyday bras that prioritise fit and comfort.
Kitty K specialises in the cute and pretty side of sexy. You will find soft, dainty pieces from imported brands such as Chantal Thomass, Lonely Lingerie, and Eberjey loungewear. The ladies here fit by eye and are adept at suggesting lingerie for your unique shape.
Price: $$$$
Best for: romantic, comfortable pieces.
Naughty, sexy yet down-to-earth, Passionfruit is a modern reinvention of the sex shop. It’s a friendly, comfortable space to explore sensuality, with education and inclusivity at heart. You’ll find body-safe toys and luxury lingerie that's chosen on red-hot seduction value.
Price: $$$$
Best for: bondage pieces and lace lingerie sets that feature suspender belts and stockings.
Designer lingerie at $20? Don’t mind if I do! Richmond is the biggest store and caters for larger sizes (up to a 24G). There are a few lacey numbers on offer, but the vast majority of pieces are everyday basics including maternity, sports and sleepwear.
Price: $
Best for: affordable and discounted lingerie.
French Bikini is on every lingerie connoisseur’s must-visit list. This boutique is home to a range of exquisite styles from European and Australian brands, including Andres Sarda, Sainted Sisters and Maison Lejaby.
Price: $$$$
Best for: high-quality French lingerie.
This is a high-end boutique catering for the rich and famous with flawless service to match. They offer private after-hours appointments and the Lamborghinis of lingerie labels, La Perla and Bordelle. They also house designer intimates for the refined gents.
Price: $$$$
Best for: designer lingerie made by hand and intimates for men.
Siren Doll is the Mardi Gras of lingerie boutiques. Here, you’ll find PVC superhero onesies, pink wigs, glittery nipple tassels, french maid costumes, body-stockings-in-a-packet and fishnets galore. This Melbourne institution is held dearly in the hearts of performers, dancers and hens parties.
Price: $$$
Best for: neon coloured bikinis, lingerie sets and fishnet tights.
While Hopeless Lingerie is stocked at some of the stores on this list, this online Australian-made lingerie boutique is worth its own mention. Theatric, dark and romantic, shop here for the comfiest of everyday intimates alongside showstoppers to kick things up a notch.
Price: $$$$
Best for: handmade bralettes in an inclusive size range.
This family-run, online-only luxury boutique specialises in Italian lingerie, with an exclusive Roberto Crescentini range. They also offer Love and Lustre sleepwear, delicate bridal sets and Simone Pérèle for the affordable end of quality.
Price: $$$$
Best for: sleepwear and bodysuits.
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