Lingerie for Less: Alluring Alternatives to Upscale Pieces

It doesn't matter what you wear; sexy is a state of mind. There's no need to shell out hundreds of dollars for a few pieces of material that probably won't stay on very long. Although you may not be inclined to think practically about a sheer "babydoll" chemise or skimpy lingerie set, it's worth considering: What's the cost per wear? Will you be donning the lingerie often enough to balance out a brand-name splurge, or will it retire to the back of your dresser drawer after Valentine's Day? You can go cheap without losing much in the way of sexy styling and selection at most major department stores and even big-box retailers, as well as some clothing-only chains and specialty vendors. Cheapism.com found five cheap (but very sexy) lingerie items similar to exemplars sold by Victoria's Secret and high-end lingerie retailers such as Journelle and Agent Provocateur.

You can tap into your sexy side in the Elle Macpherson Intimates Eyelash Chemise, a "Persian red" number that boasts layers of lace at the cup and hem -- and costs $155 at Journelle. Now compare ...

For about $19 on clearance, you can slip into a delicate babydoll from Target. Like the Elle Macpherson version, it features red lace, inky detailing, and a tiny bow at the bust.

Who says Valentine's Day lingerie has to be red or pink? Get lucky in a green silk satin slip, priced at a spectacular $590 at Agent Provocateur. Or check out the competition ...

You can get the same silky, lacy, jewel-toned look for $28 at Frederick's of Hollywood. The Katherine Satin Chemise, also available in black or red, features black lace trim, a low X-back, and a sexy thigh slit on the side.

The flirty Rei Babydoll by Agent Provocateur incorporates French lace, silk bindings, and double-layered lace cups with a bow in between. It also carries a $590 price tag. The alternative ...

For a sale price of $10.99 at Kmart, the Passion Forever Women's Push-up Babydoll and Thong is just as playful and comes in a similar violet color with double straps in front (it's also available in coral). This mesh lingerie set, which includes a matching thong, features ruffled edging and a satin bow between the cups.

Victoria definitely has a secret when it comes to selling lingerie. The company has built multibillion-dollar business marketing intimate apparel such as the Very Sexy Flyaway Babydoll. It features black or lime Chantilly lace and comes in at $68. Instead ...

Opt for a flyaway babydoll at Target for $16 on sale. It shares the sheer body, lace cups, and bow detail of the Victoria's Secret style. One welcome difference for some shoppers: This piece is made for plus-size women.

Wrap yourself in plum-colored silk and lace. The Beautiful Bottoms Winter Rose Lace Night Slip features lace cups, a floral design on the body, and a $132 price tag at Journelle. Another suggestion ...

The Rosemandy Sheer Lingerie Set on Amazon lacks the floral print skirt but has a similar purple palette and lacy triangle top. Reviewers express pleasant surprise at the vibrant color, the quality, and the price: $9.99 on sale (plus $4.88 shipping). The nightie comes with a sheer robe and G-string. It's shipped from China, so be sure to check estimated shipping times. Reviewers also warn that it doesn't suit large-chested women.