It's something that isn't really talked about, but we know it's true. There's lingerie for every aspect of your life and phase of your relationships. After all, the lingerie you wear at the start of a love affair isn't necessarily going to be what you wear when you've been together for five years and have a baby. And who hasn't devoted a section of their underwear drawer to first-time-with-a-new-guy bra and panty sets?

Read How to Look Sexier in Bed

We consulted with Jennifer Carroll, co-author of the new book, Underneath It All: A Girl’s Guide to Buying, Wearing, and Loving Lingerie ($11.16, Harlequin), to come up with a guide to lingerie that matches your relationship status. Whether you’re single, seriously involved or happily married, here are your options:

Single and Not Seeing Anyone Right Now
So what if no one else will see your underwear? “Dress for the love life you want, not the one you’ve got,” advises Carroll. Here are some simple pieces that you can wear on a solo night at home to make you feel more sensual and in touch with your feminine side without feeling ridiculous. Looks like this will give you an extra boost of confidence, “just in case you meet Mr. Right,” says Carroll.

From left: Jenna Leigh Maroma Deep Red Nightie ($125, jennaleighlingerie.com). Alfani Chemise, Bralette ($24.98, macys.com). Kimchi Blue Polka Dot Slip ($48, urbanoutfitters.com)

Single and Dating
When you’re dating but not fully committed to someone, it’s a good idea to keep the more complicated items safe in your naughty drawer until things start getting serious. For the time being, stick with classy yet sexy separates. “Make sure your bra and panties match,” says Carroll. “Your date will appreciate the effort!” And in these styles, he’ll want to stick around to see what else you’ve got in your repertoire.

From left: Pin Dot Mesh Ruffled Bra ($7, charlotterusse.com) and Polkadot Boyshort Panties ($3, charlotterusse.com). Felina: Harlow Full Busted Demi Bra ($32, barenecessities.com) and Felina: Harlow Low Rise G-String ($14, barenecessities.com). Flirty Lace Balconette Bra in pink ($16.80, express.com)  and Flirty Lace String Thong in pink ($12.50, express.com)

In a Relationship
Now that you've found someone, it’s time to up the ante. If you’re in a relatively new relationship, don’t bother with complicated closures and ties because your guy won’t wait long enough to delicately take these pieces off of you. Instead, stick with pieces that are hotter than your average bra and panty set, but are just as easy to remove. Carroll likes the simple addition of a garter belt and stockings, too. “Add them to any bra and panty set to heat things up on date night,” she says.

From left: Brazilian Lace & Mesh Flyaway Babydoll ($32, fredericks.com). Leopard Babydoll Set ($21.95, yandy.com). Cut-Out Halter Babydoll ($35, victoriassecret.com)