9 French lingerie brands you need to know about
These are the French lingerie brands Parisian women swear by when they want a luxe update for their lingerie drawers.
We've found the best French lingerie brands that are as comfortable as they are chic, to help you achieve effortless style. After all, great outfits, start with great foundations.
It's no secret that French women have style. In fact, 'French girl' fashion is totally a thing, with people trying to find out how to get that effortlessly chic look. While it's mostly down to them shopping the best French clothing brands, it also all has to do with the exact pieces they invest in. Masters of the capsule wardrobe, French style is dedicated to top tier items that stand the test of time. From the best blazers to the best cashmere sweaters. It's all about high-quality cuts and luxe fabrications and the same can be said for their lingerie too.
France is known for its luxury lingerie sector - with many brands launching throughout the '50s and '60s making their name in corsets. Fast forward to 2022 and these same brands are now crafting everything from the best bras in silk and lace to some of the best underwear and best shapewear. Whatever bra styles you're after, you can guarantee that the best French lingerie brands have designed piece that you'll want to bag right away. From the best push-up bras to the best bralettes, there is no style you can't find. Good lingerie can be expensive, but getting the right bra fit is important, as aside from anything else, it will ensure a comfier wear and that your clothes fit well.
Best French lingerie brands as chosen by our fashion team
Why you can trust Woman & Home
1. Aubade
Reasons to buy
Looking for lingerie with a premium feel? Aubade was founded in 1958 in Paris, since then it has developed its key bra styles along with starting lingerie trends that'll never go out of style. With each bra needing a minimum of 24 pieces to be created, you can rest assured you're in the hands of experts and that the fit will be great.
RRP: $177 / £125 | Sizes: 30-40 A-E | A collection inspired by the work of the late Karl Lagerfeld. This vintage style merlot hued bra with the 3 button detailing references Lagerfeld's iconic tuxedo jacket. With delicate satin body and mesh cups, this is a glamorous design with added support at the back for E cups.
RRP: $163 / £115 | Sizes: 30-38 A-E | Stunning blue floral embroidery on tulle cups, with a scalloped edge, this push-up bra has an elegant finish. Three-section foam padding ensures maximum comfort and the padding is removable to ensure the bra is adaptable to suit your needs.
RRP: $126 / £89 | Size: S-L | Lightweight, this attractive bra is part of Aubade's eco-collection. Constructed from recycled lace and crêpe this wire and padding free design is one of the most comfortable bras. Ideal for light support, layer under a sweater when you're next choosing what to wear on a plane.
2. Chantelle
Reasons to buy
Part of the Groupe Chantelle company founded in 1876, Chantelle first began as corsets and later went into lingerie including bras, briefs and shapewear. Now, the French lingerie brand is a go-to for everyday underwear that fits like a dream. It's also inclusive to all women's sizes by going from an A-I cup in a lot of the popular styles, making it one of the best plus size lingerie brands.
RRP: $88 / £72 | Sizes: 32-44 B-F | One of the best bras for back fat, the U-shaped back distributes weight for a smoother finish. Supported with a double lining for maximum support, the cups are unlined and without padding for a natural lift and shape.
RRP: $20 / £16 | Sizes: One Size (XS-L) | One of Chantelle's bestsellers, these briefs offer tummy coverage with a high-waist band and lace detailing for a feminine finish. In one-size, they might not be suitable above a size 18 but they do have a lot of stretch.
RRP: $115 (US only) | Sizes: 34-42 B-H | Combining tulle and florals, this bra offers a full cup fit for coverage. One of the best bras for larger busts, this design will support up to an H cup. The orange hue adds a fashion element to this lingerie style.
3. Eres
Reasons to buy
If you want something simple but special and your budget doesn't stretch to a custom bra, this is the French lingerie brand for you. Founded in 1968 by Irène Leroux, the swimwear brand was the first of its kind. Creating swimwear all year round, the styles were modern, wearable and available for those who wanted to go away throughout the year. Snapped up by Chanel in 1996, the label sticks to its luxury feel (with the black swimsuit being a favorite), and also now has lingerie and activewear. The bras and briefs are all fuss-free and timeless - perfect for minimalists.
RRP: $405 / £290 | Sizes: 85-95 B-D | A sleek and minimalist design, this cotton bra comes in a directional pastel pink hue for the ultimate underwear staple. A smooth molded cup for a discreet finish, the light cut out detailing adds a fashion twist.
RRP: £260 (UK only) | Sizes: 85-95 B-D | The V-neck design of this bra is a flattering design for larger busts, offering shapely cleavage. The underwire and lining give support, as well as a sleek finish. The lace edging feels fresh and modern.
RRP: $480 / £350 | Sizes: 38-44 | This waterproof bodysuit is a staple. A bodysuit offers unique contouring abilities, giving you a smooth finish under clothing. Ideal for wearing under slip dresses, this will help with stylish dresses to hide a tummy.
4. Etam
Reasons to buy
Founded in 1916, the ready-to-wear brand started as corsets and branched out into lingerie and clothing. Now also known for its extensive lingerie collections including sustainable styles and some of the best period pants, the brand is a go-to for affordable style.
RRP: $43 / £37 | Sizes: 32-38 D-E | A great plunge bra, this fully lined design provides a natural look. The lace pattern keeps it elegant and we love the double strap detail. Complete the set with Etam's matching thong. Ideal for wearing under neutral hues.
5. Simone Pérèle
Reasons to buy
Creating lingerie for over 70 years, corset designer Simone Pérèle founded the label back in 1948. Now, the brand is well-known for its carefully curated edit of gorgeous lingerie. With attention to detail being key to the brand's aesthetic, it's all about investing in the best-fitting bras that'll make you feel as good as you look.
RRP: £65 / $75 | Sizes: 32-36 B-F | With a seamless finish, the adjustable straps that can be worn multiple ways, for greater versatility. An everyday basic with molded cup design, it's ideal under close fitting fabrics.
6. Ysé
Reasons to buy
Starting its journey in 2012, Ysé bridges the gap between high-end luxury French lingerie and straight-to-market brands. Creating intricately designed styles up to a size 16, this isn't the most size inclusive brand, however if you fall within this brand's sizing range, its pieces are too gorgeous to save for special occasions early.
RRP: £34 (International Delivery Available) | Size: 6-16 | These blue briefs have an elegant and sophisticated overall appearance. The micro floral embroidery adds a delicate touch. Constructed from recycled microfiber for an eco-friendly finish.
RRP: £71 (international delivery available) | Size: 6-16| Ideal for the summer, this soft white bodysuit offers a streamlined fit. The ribbed material makes this a firm everyday favorite. Wear as an added layer in the winter with your best jeans and sweater.
RRP: £38 (international delivery available) | Size: 30-36 A-C | One of the best bras for a small bust, this classic triangle silhouette offers light support and is free from underwire for a comfort fit. From recycled fibres, this floral design is a pretty choice for summer.
7. Maison Lejaby
Cultivating its expertise in corsetry and lingerie since 1930, Maison Lejaby creates high-quality lingerie with beautiful fabrications and masterful cuts. Combining Parisian elegance with a bold and modern aesthetic, Maison Lejaby has lingerie you’ll love for special occasions and everyday wear too.
RRP: $90 / £72 | Size: 85-100 A-C | Adding a fresh touch, this broderie anglaise bra, makes this white cotton basic standout from the crowd. With excellent handle and breathability, this piece is ideal for the warm summer months. Opt for a demi-cup bra if you're looking for some natural lift without padding.
RRP: $55 / £42 | Sizes: 2-5 | High-waisted briefs are ideal for apple body shapes, as they sit over the midriff for a flattering and smooth finish. With a opaque main body and sheer and lacey side panels, these curve loving briefs have a fashion-forward feel. Finish the looking with the matching lacey bra.
RRP: $170 / £123 | Sizes: 85-105 B-E | Bodysuits have grown in popularity in recent seasons, loved by the fashion pack for outerwear as well as underwear. This underwired design lifts and fits up to an E cup, with the lace and satin panelled fit giving a luxurious and sensual finish to this one-piece.
8. Chantal Thomass
Having designed lingerie since the 1970s, Chantal Thomass is known for its daring and occasionally risqué and burlesque-inspired designs. Leaning into Chantal's (after who the brand is named) experience as a fashion designer, the current collection feels fresh, modern, even a little bit sporty in its execution with sexy but purposefully cut out details, reflecting the fashion trends 2022.
RRP: $378 / £302 | Sizes: 32-38 B-E | Daring, sexy and elegant - just some of the ways we would describe this French lingerie brand. The harness, cut-out detail with lace panelling offers a racy but sophisticated finish.
9. Lise Charmel
Offering unique craftsmanship, Lise Charmel lingerie incorporates gorgeous lace, embroideries, and silk fabrics to create enchanting lingerie to make the wearer feel beautiful and empowered. Pure elegance, Lise Charmel aims to embody the design direction of a haute couture brand and inject that into their lingerie collections. With multiple edits, there is a style to suit multiple tastes.
RRP: $123.68 / £101 | Sizes: 34-40 D-F | A full coverage bra, but not as you know it, this cheeky bra has a full cup shape that injects sheer lace panels for a flesh flashing finish. With great bust support for larger sizes, take not of the full figured construction and thick straps.
RRP: $121.24 / £99 | Sizes: 32-28 A-E | With a fashion-forward feel, this bra offers a riot of color. While most bras in this list err towards wearability and minimalism, this delicately embroidered, padded design is one you'll want to show off. Flash a hint under a semi sheer blouse.
RRP: $91.85 / £75 | Sizes: S-XL | The scalloped edges on this shorty style brief gives a romantic finish to this red lacey look. Available up to an XL, this sensual style will team well with its matching bra, or worn on those days that you need a little confidence boost.
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Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor, writing and styling for titles including Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Who What Wear, and woman&home. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, Harriet has a love for shopping but also a newfound interest in trying to be more sustainable. With a love for Scandi brands and an eye for key designer pieces to mix in with high street hero buys, Harriet specialises in shopping stories and buying guides that’ll make you feel excited about updating your wardrobe.
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