When it comes to dating at Tulane, it’s easy to feel like you have no power in your own dating life and become discouraged. One thing you do have control over is your own confidence…and I’m here to offer a solution for my self-conscious ladies in the room. This past year, I started wearing lingerie just for myself. At school, I put on my nicest lacy things just to head to class, the Commons, and while going out. I know this seems silly…why would underwear change anything? Well, an easy Google search will show you a number of articles and studies that prove that lingerie boosts your self esteem and can increase your general level of happiness on a day to day basis. If you’re skeptical about it, take it from me. My social anxiety is through the roof, and don’t even get me started on how hard dates can be. But ever since I started dressing in underthings that make me happy, I’ve felt a surge in my confidence and excitement to go out. It’s not because I’m ever expecting anyone to see what’s under my clothing, but rather because I feel pretty when I’m wearing it.
Self love is at the root of why lingerie is my recommended solution for self confidence. Without a high level of self respect and excitement surrounding your own body, it’s almost impossible to be confident and ready for the dating world. You can’t fully be yourself around another person if you haven’t yet learned to love your own body. Being naked is such a vulnerable state for all people. So, being able to dress yourself up in a bra and panties (or the lingerie of your choice) that makes you feel beautiful and sexy can be one of the most beneficial things you can do in your journey of loving your body, and thus loving someone else. Of course there are so many things we all have to do to learn how to love ourselves, and lingerie won’t necessarily fix everything, but I promise you that it can seriously help. You should be able to look in the mirror and say, “Damn, I look hot,” and honestly, lingerie might get you there.
The price range and comfort level of lingerie often deters college students from purchasing nicer underwear, but there are affordable, super comfy options out there. As I said, I wear it almost every day, just because beautiful little lacy things make me feel like my body is worthy of nice garments to hug my curves. That being said, I don’t have the budget to afford a $600 pair of La Perla underwear for every day of the week. But I have decided that it is worth spending $20 at Zara for nicer quality panties. Brands like Savage x Fenty, Adore Me, Bluebella, and even Victoria Secret, are all good options. They usually cost under the $20 mark for underwear, and under $50 for bras and lingerie sets. In terms of comfort, these brands understand that women don’t like impractical, itchy undies. There is no reason to pull up to the library in crotchless, strappy panties that leave marks on your skin. But don’t worry, most lingerie companies nowadays make underwear that are functional, but still sexy. If you’re out of ideas on how to feel self assured, try buying a new matching set and wear it just for yourself!
Cover Photo: Magdalina Saliba

About Magdalena Saliba
Magdalena is a Co-Editor for Sex and the Crescent City, as well as a member of the photo and graphic design teams. She’s a Junior double majoring in Art History and Studio Art. She loves shopping for cool pants, watching The Sopranos over and over again, and making pasta from scratch.
Magdalena is a Co-Editor for Sex and the Crescent City, as well as a member of the photo and graphic design teams. She’s a Junior double majoring in Art History and Studio Art. She loves shopping for cool pants, watching The Sopranos over and over again, and making pasta from scratch.