Glossary

To help you get the most from our website we have provided a glossary which gives the meanings of some of the terms and words you will find within our site. With the exception of the first entry, the list is arranged in alphabetical order. If you have any questions after reading through this list please contact us.

La Magia - pronounced (something like) La Madjya

La Magia means 'the magic' in Italian. It is pronounced like the word 'magic' but with 'ia' on the end instead of 'c'. After hearing several different pronunciations of our name we thought it was about time we explained the meaning behind it as well as the way you say it! We chose it because it sums up what good lingerie means to us; sophistication, mystery, glamour and of course...magic!

Balconette Bra

This bra has a style of cup that gives a fantastic cleavage. Provocative, very sexy and always under-wired. A very popular style of bra.

Bloomers

Vintage style baggy knickers that often incorporate ribbon ties to the legs and waist band. They have seen an increase in popularity with the recent burlesque revival and are the perfect accompaniment to a corset.

Brocade

A rich, heavy, elaborate design effect. Sometimes with colored or metallic threads making the design stand out usually against a satin weave background. The pattern may be satin on a twill ground or twill on a satin ground. Often reversible. The motifs may be of flowers, foliage, scrollwork, or other designs.

Busk

A Piece of wood, plastic or steel slotted into front of a corset to hold the torso erect. The integral front section of a corset shaped to control the abdomen, and also to hold its steel stud and eye fastening. In olden times the removable types were often given as gifts of endearment by men to their women, usually adorned with words of poetry.

Coutil

Coutil (or Coutille) is a tightly woven twill cloth with a herringbone pattern. It looks sleek with a smooth finish. It has been created specifically for making corsets. It is woven tightly to inhibit penetration of bones/stays and resist to stretching. Coutil can be made in plain, satin or brocade and generally colored black, white or flesh. Coutil can be soft, stiff or medium and this characteristic is determined by the starch finishing.

Chiffon

A light diaphanous fabric of silk, nylon, etc. Lightweight, sheer, transparent. Made with very fine, tightly twisted yarns. It is very strong, despite filmy look. Wears very well and feels luxurious against the skin.

Cuban Heel

A distinctive stocking heel made with folded over and sewn reinforcement. As well as reinforcing the heel it is a decorative feature.

Modesty Panel

A flap of material which lies beneath the back lacing of a corset to hide any naked flesh. It can be folded to one side if you prefer.

Pasties

Pasties are adhesive coverings applied to the nipple, for decoration or concealment. The pasties we sell here at La Magia are of the decorative nature! Worn by most neo-burlesque performers, our pasties are handmade to order and feature tassles which hang from their centers, which performers will often twirl while performing.

Welt

This is the hosiery term for the top of a stocking. Often the welt is ornate and decorative, sometimes made from lace. The welt is the part of the stockings which is attached to the suspender belt or girdle and so made from a heavier knit and usually double-folded to give extra strength.

Soft Cup Bra

A soft cup bra does not have any boning or wires in it. It will still support the breasts and is extremely comfortable however it will not give any boost (push-up) to the cleavage.

If you have any questions about any other materials or styles please contact us.