Ask the expert - underwear special

We asked Susannah Barron, Web Editor of Figleaves.com and expert consultant on Channel 4's How to Look Good Naked to answer your lingerie questions. With such an array of underwear on offer, it's no wonder us girls find it tricky to know what to wear with that strapless dress or those figure-hugging jeans. Well don't despair Figleaves - the experts in all things underwear help with your lingerie dilemmas.

Q. I'm going to a wedding in a couple of weeks time. The dress I've bought is quite clingy and I'm wondering what to wear underneath - a thong would mean no VPL but it doesn't give much support!

A. If you're wearing a clingy dress, you really can't beat controlwear. Choose a style that comes down to mid thigh and not only will you avoid the dreaded VPL but you will also ensure a smooth silhouette under your dress too.
Spanx Hide and Sleek - £41

Q. My wardrobe is over-flowing with pairs of white jeans, white linen and cotton trousers that I'm too afraid to wear as I don't like the thought of people being able to see my undies! What do you recommend?
A. It sounds like it should work& but wearing white knickers under white trousers is a real faux pas. Like a white bra under a white t-shirt, there's a danger that they will show through. For an invisible look under clothes, I'd recommend nude coloured knickers instead. If in doubt, opt for a full coverage brief over a thong.
Charnos Skinvisible brief - £14

Q. I'm 5 months pregnant and as a previous fan of skimpy thongs, I'm now really stuck for comfortable but still attractive underwear. Please help!
A. You're in luck - feminine as well as functional, maternity lingerie is just getting better and better. Anita's pretty, floral briefs are designed to sit comfortably under your bump; or try designer maternity styles from brands like Emily B and Amoralia.
Anita Maternity Beautiful Mum brief - £16

Q. I do a lot of traveling with my job, spending hours on trains and planes. I'd love to find some super-comfortable underwear that's still smart.
A. The shorty has become increasingly popular and with good reason - with a longer leg than the traditional brief, it's a comfortable, modern style that shouldn't ride up. Great fabrics like this bamboo blend jersey are the key to finding a super-comfortable style.
Ballet Zhen Bamboo shorty - £14

Q. I'm planning a really special evening for my boyfriend, to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. I want to seduce him in gorgeous underwear, but am struggling to find something that is sexy but not tacky. A. You can't go wrong with a shorty or a French knicker, which has a loose, feminine cut, in a beautiful fabric. Silk is always seductive, or try a shorty in a soft, good quality lace, like this one by French brand Chantelle.
Chantelle Chantilly shorty - £29