Lingerie Hell

It is a simple statement of fact that neither sexy nor functional lingerie can be easily found in Cambodia. What at home would be a nip into M&S, Etam or Victoria’s Secret, turns into an altogether more frustrating adventure in Phnom Penh. Words by Nora Lindstrom.

Size Matters

Local women are small in size but large in number, and so it is no wonder the lingerie market caters mainly for them. Markets such as Orussey and Toul Tom Poung stock a decent amount of lingerie, however most of the pieces on sale will appeal little to western tastes, while western sizes, although not an utter rarity, are not easily found. Knickers are often ‘one size fits all’ – though they clearly don’t fit all. Most bras are in the range AA70 to B75 (32 to 34 in U.K. terms). Prices are rock bottom, US$3 to US$5 without haggling, but there are no changing rooms. Many market stalls however also stock a good amount of accessories, such as transparent and flowery straps.

Best Options

On the fourth floor in Sorya Centre, as well as a smaller selection in Sovanna Mall, CityMart stocks relatively decent Triumph underwear. Larger bra sizes such as E85 and D90 are available in some models, but significantly compromised aesthetic value. There is a good selection of knickers in decent materials, as well as ‘Queen size’ pants for those with more generous behinds. Prices range from around US$15 and up for bras, while a set of three basic briefs will set you back US$10. Significantly, CityMart also has good-sized changing rooms with locks. 

Lucky Market on Sihanouk Boulevard is another place worth checking out. Similar to CityMart, smaller sizes dominate, but a few more generous bras ones can be found. Check out the Guy Laroche selection, which though not exactly cheap – prices start from around US$40 – this could be worth it for a special occasion. Like in CityMart, changing rooms are provided.

Paragon Boutique probably has the best and largest selection of lingerie in town. Various brands are displayed, such as Elle and Vanity Fair, and although most sets are available in small sizes only, the capital’s potentially largest range of ‘regular-sized’ non-padded bras can be found here. Prices start from around US$10 for a bra, the staff are helpful – though slightly stalking as the shop tends to be empty – and there are good, private changing rooms.

Sex Appeal

Set in Parkway Square, La Belle lingerie shop seems to be one of a kind in Phnom Penh. Admittedly small sizes and frills are de rigeur, but it stocks well-known brands such as real Calvin Klein and even La Perla (at around US$60). If you’re into less conventional lingerie, this is the place to go for neon-coloured, flower-shaped nipple covers (US$5 for a set of five), as well as size-reducing granny pants and tiny, tiny, tiny thongs. Threads stocks some pretty Shenga underwear, made fair trade from Cambodian silk. The bras come in all sizes, though circumferences tend to be 80 and up – large that is. Matching pants are also available. Unfortunately, as these are no longer being made, the samples currently on display are the last of the stock.

Bra Buying 101

1) Know your size, in both European and American terms, but also know these are not entirely standardised.

2) When trying the bra on, the cup should completely contain the breast – if you’re bursting out you need a bigger cup size, if the opposite – go smaller.

3) The bra should fit snugly when on the last (loosest) hook. If it hurts, opt for a larger circumference; if it’s loose try a smaller one.

4) The back of the bra should be at the same level as the front – adjust the straps if they are pulling the back up, otherwise you need a smaller size.

5) The front of the bra should lie flat against the breastbone, if it doesn’t the cups may be too small.

6) Remember to adjust the straps for comfort.

7) Put a shirt on and make sure your bust looks fabulous.