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| Adjustable Back | The back of a garment, usually a bra, corset or bustier which has multiple settings to allow for individual sizing preferences. Typically, adjustments are made with hook-and-eye closures or lacing. |
| Adjustable Garters | The elastic straps on a garter belt that attach to stockings are adjustable and can be made shorter or longer to provide the best fit. |
| Adjustable Shoulder Straps | Shoulder straps on bras, shape wear, chemises, slips and other types of lingerie and undergarments that allow for shortening or lengthening the straps to provide the best fit. |
| Animal Print | A pattern printed onto or woven into fabric to resemble an animal, usually a leopard, tiger, zebra or snake. |
| Appliqué |
A decoration or ornament made by cutting pieces of one material and applying them to the surface of another. For lingerie, appliqués are often made of lace or mesh and may feature beading, sequins, rhinestones, etc. |
| Arm Socks, Arm Warmers | Gloves, similar to the leg warmers worn by dancers. Some styles are fingerless but some do have fingers that are cut off to expose the fingers, usually from the second knuckle down to the tip of the finger. Arm socks can be made in anything from sheer mesh and fishnet to heavy knits like socks. Currently popular with punk dressers. |
| Athletic Underwear |
A wide range of underwear including bras, shorts, tights, etc that is generally worn during exercise or athletic activities. Athletic underwear may include wicking power, which draws moisture away from the body, compression for energy conservation and muscle support, mesh for ventilation, specific styles such as a racer back or tank top and stretch fabrics for snug support during athletic activity and giving a body enhancing appearance. |
| Attached Garter Belt |
Stockings or hosiery that have a garter belt permanently attached. |
| Attached Sleeves | Can be short sleeves or long sleeves that are attached at only one point to the side of the garment. Attached sleeves are usually seen on certain styles of women’s tops, dresses, costumes and body stockings. |
| Austrian Crystal | Rhinestones, which may or may not be Swarovski, that are made of cut glass or crystal as opposed to plastic or acrylic. Austrian crystals or rhinestones made of cut glass or crystal are considered superior and have a much more brilliant appearance. Only cut crystal rhinestones made by Swarovski can use the phrase "Swarovski" |
| Average Figure Bra | Bra that offers light to moderate support, with narrow straps, back and sides. Average figure bras usually made from slightly firmer material. |