Fashion: Lingerie, the perfect foundation

Lingerie is one of the most underrated items of clothing.

No one can see it, so you think you can get away with wearing bras that used to be white but have been washed with other colours so many times they're a mottled blue - or knickers that used to fit but now sag dismally around the middle.

But a gorgeous new set of lingerie can make you feel amazing.

And aside from any magic undergarments that smooth away all your lumps and bumps, which are all the rage at the moment, well-fitted lingerie provides the perfect foundation for your outfit to look its best.

I was extremely pleased when the trend started to move away from G-strings and towards French knickers. I know some people swear by them, but I don't think the briefest of briefs are flattering on even slim figures. This is a case where a little more is definitely more.

Most of the latest lingerie collections are very girly, so grab the chance to indulge in florals and lace - even if you're wearing monochrome black over the top.

Some sets are so cute it seems a pity to cover them up.

But it's hard to feel pretty, let alone sexy, if your underwear doesn't fit right. This is one instance where you don't want your cups running over and you definitely don't want bulges around your bra line.

Most specialist lingerie shops - and many department stores - offer free fitting services, so get measured regularly to ensure you are wearing the right size. You will be surprised at what a difference it makes. One woman I know said having the right bra size even improved her posture.

I know it can be hard to justify spending a lot of money on something no one will see but good-quality lingerie lasts a long time, especially if you take care of it properly. And knowing that you're wearing lovely underwear will give you a confidence boost that could prove invaluable.