Lingerie can serve different purposes such as coverage, comfort or completely ornamental. There are undergarments that are intended for casual wear meaning they are designed in such a way that they are flattering for the figure when worn with other clothing items. Comfort on the other hand, translates to what support it provides the different parts of a woman's body. A brassiere should be able to do that without making a woman feel uncomfortable. Collections of ornamental lingerie are to be used as is. This means that their purpose is making a fashion statement so it explains much about the elaborate detailing of the pieces.

These are also made from different kinds of materials according to what they are intended for. Oftentimes, those that are made from cotton would provide utmost comfort. There are also those that make use of silk because of their lush appeal. However, the most common material used for these is different kinds of sheer material. Sheer is a favorite because the look can be achieved with cheaper materials. For ornamental lingerie, sheer is the most effective because of its subtle coverage that entices more. Many people simply find it intriguing to see through different clothing garments and it is what makes them sexy.

One example of such is sheer lingerie bikinis. The two-piece undergarment set is composed of a brassiere and a panty. However, these would have many different variations. Each would have similar make and details because they are intended to be worn together. The top have numerous designs that include the classic two-strap bra, bandeau, haltered top, with short sleeves or with long sleeves. The common means for attachment for the top is through tying pieces of strings or ribbons but there are also ones that make use of plastic locks that clip into place. There are even more stylized designs that have a singular strap or multiple straps in crisscrossed patterns for an elaborate design as well as maximum support. For the bottom, the designs would include a panty or a boyleg. Cuts and patterns for the bottom can also be more enticing with minimal coverage such as thongs.

These bikinis are durable enough to be used while bathing. The support of sheer lingerie bikinis should never be taken lightly. For instance, no woman wants the brassiere falling off the wrong time especially when certain types of materials absorb water and become heavy after submersion. Sheer lingerie bikinis are lightweight and are made for swimming or lounging in the Jacuzzi. Other than that, bikinis as such should look appealing even when wet. Costume lingerie may also make use of sheer for different pieces but most of them would not look good after being submerged in water. Although there are ones that are designed with frills, laces and fancy embellishments, those are discouraged as they would be quite bothersome for swimming. Metals such as studs in the undergarment can also rust that would make the set less practical. Polyester fabric, cotton and silk are commonly used for the piping of sheer lingerie bikinis because they are more durable to hold the mesh together.