Like a column, this figure type has the characteristics of being slim and straight without curves or waist.  I happen to fall into this body type, so I know how frustrating it can be to have no body definition.  I run towards anything with an empire cut just to avoid revealing my lack of a waist. Oh what I would give to have that curvy sexy look!

On top, we have small to medium breasts.  So we can pretty much wear any cute bra we want, but it always has kind of a training bra look to it because of our straight lines.  One trick is to wear a camisole.  A longer line down your torso just always seems to be a better look.  Another great option on top is a bustier.  This type of garment helps to give you a waist and that long line to narrow you and give you some curves. A bustier usually has the under-bust seam that also flatters a column shape by giving you a line of demarcation right under your bust.  This makes your breasts look larger and helps you look taller and thinner.

As for the bottoms, this body shape can wear any style.  But again, less is always best.  Hi-cut panties make your legs look longer.  If you have a bit of a tummy, shapewear that looks like biker pants are a great solution.  Buy them in black and they will look like you’re wearing biker pants.

As an interesting aside, I was once told that this figure type is the most likely to have her breasts augmented.  A cheaper solution would be to purchase a contour bra or one with some padding.  The same look for less.

Follow HerRoom on Twitter for daily tips.

The other day, Oprah had a show about women getting their sexy back. Her style team from O Magazine took 5 women and transformed them into really attractive and sexy looking goddesses.  It was truly impressive.  Part of the show had a segment from Susan Nethero sharing her list of 5 lingerie must-haves every women should have in her lingerie drawer.  Here they are:

1. A Date Night Bra – This is a bra that is pretty and makes you feel pretty when you wear it out in the evening.  One idea was for this bra to be in a color other than nude – like red.  I think black can be a good choice as well.
2. A demi cup or cleavage showing bra – A demi cup bra has cups that cover less of your upper breast tissue.  This allows you to wear lower necklines. A cleavage showing bra, I call a plunge bra. The center panel is cut very low so that you can wear lower v-necks or be able to keep one more button unbuttoned.
3. A strapless bra -  I find myself more and more reaching for a strapless.  With today’s unusual necklines, a strapless sometimes seems like the only choice if you want to wear a bra.
4. An elegant camisole – I must confess that I frequently forget about the camisole option.  It’s a great solution as a layer under jackets and sweaters.  As winter approaches, and we all must go in and out of hot and cold temperatures, having a pretty camisole as your base layer can give instant relief when you want to take off something to cool down.  And, there are great support camisoles that not only look pretty, but give you the added smoothing benefits.
5. Matching bra and panty sets – After this recommendation, Oprah polled her audience as to how many women were wearing panties that matched their bra.  Not many raised their hand. A conversation between Oprah and her stylists ensued.  The overwhelming opinion is that women who wear a matching set feel more confident when they walk and talk – even if no one but themselves know they have it on.

Also on this show, Susan highlighted the Mary Jo Avero plunge convertible bra as her preferred date bra.  It’s pretty, has fabulous detailing, a low center and convertible straps.

I must say that I agree with this list, with the possible exception of the camisole.    So, breaking this list down into figure types, here is my list of favorites for each of these 5 lingerie must-haves:

Petite Plus size: Chantelle Legende Demi Underwire Bra