I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that I stopped at the mall last week just to buy a crappy dinner of greasy Chinese food and hot pretzels. I’m almost as embarrassed to admit that when I saw a lace camisole in a display window of a discount teen store, I couldn’t resist popping in to see what else they had. Forever 21, a chain mall store with which our Canadian and US readers are probably familiar, has never been known for its quality.

Trendy, inexpensive clothing can be found there, however, and lately the lingerie selection online and in stores has really been expanding. While you can’t expect to find anything there that will last you a very long time, if you are on a budget you can find some short-term gems. You can pick up a sweet and sexy set for under $10, like the yellow “Taryn” combination, and the quality really isn’t that bad considering that we’re talking about panties that cost less than that hot pretzel I ate for dinner. You can stock up on ruffled and floral knickers for yourself and a sheer black bra for nights at home!

The inventory at these stores is always changing, so you may not have these exact pieces near you (but you may have something better!). As for me, I did end up buying two lace-trimmed chemises. The fit is a bit odd so I won’t be wearing this to show off for anyone, but the silky burgundy and creamy lace peeking out of the top of my dresses hints at even better things underneath!