Luxury Lingerie Shopping

Spending so much time in my husband’s homeland, the Caribbean, we are not strangers to the multitude of uses for bamboo. Chairs, roofs, brooms and even bamboo fish catching pots can be found everywhere. But one thing we never paid much heed is bamboo clothing. My husband, however, saw a documentary not long ago that piqued both our interests. The show chronicled the process of taking bamboo leaves and creating fabric.

Bamboo fabric has many benefits, as it is apparently anti-bacterial in nature, cool in the summer, warm in the winter and soft and comfortable to the touch. When wearing bamboo lingerie, the garment does not cling to the skin in the extreme heat and actually pulls the moisture away from the skin.

So interesting was the show, it compelled me to research what lingerie labels were moving in this ecoistic direction for 2008. And I was pleasantly surprised.

Bamboo Nights, the company who touts themselves as creating the “original bamboo sleepwear”, created a pretty assortment of various lingerie pieces. Sweet little camis in pastel pink and blue, darker colours in chocolate and plum and of course, the old standby, white. Mix and match pieces with cute boy shorts, capris and leggings, long gowns with spaghetti straps or short chemises, all simple, but sweet and comfortable feeling. For women looking for something a little more delicate, some of the collection is finished with lace around the neckline, the cuffs of the arms and the cuffs of the pants.

bravado! DESIGNS, a company who has been highlighted several times in quality magazines such as American Baby, In Style and Fit Pregnancy, lives, works and designs by the “green mantra”. Their Essential Nursing Bra Tank is so hugely popular and beneficial to nursing women that they won Practical Parenting Magazine’s Award for Best Buy Product of the Year 2006!

Established in the kitchen by two women, whose wishes were to provide better nursing bras for women, they take great pride in offering the best and their bamboo nursing bra tank is one of those creations. It carries a woman through her pregnancy into the nursing phase.

Motherwear, another “maternity through nursing” label inspires pregnant women to look great and feel comfortable. Nurturing, supportive and healthy environments are keystones of this company as one can quickly see by their beautiful bras and eco-boutique. Their Embroidered Bamboo Sleep Bra, which comes in pink, twilight and white, is delicately decorated in pretty embroidery.

In addition to the many benefits of bamboo, it is considered somewhat of a “transitioning fabric” for women. It allows women to move through different phases of their lives in a more comfortable fashion. Whether pregnant, nursing or experiencing menopause, bamboo has become a women-friendly fabric. Eco Lingerie is HOT, and you know it!

With spring just around the corner, I can smell the sweet scent of garden weddings and I hear the pretty wedding bells chiming in the wind. This is the perfect time of the year to discuss bridal lingerie, as many women will be looking for undergarments to suit their gowns for their spring or summer weddings. I further wanted to spotlight luxury pieces that were handmade and of the utmost quality or so intricately created that they seemed like custom pieces to each bride who wore them.

Verde Veronica, from Italy, unveils the real scenery of a wedding with their Melody Bridal Collection. Sophistication, elegance and prestige are the underpinnings of this fine lingerie ensemble. It is easy for the bride to fall into a trance with the luxurious satins and laces that compose this collection. And the crowning glory is the v-shaped rhinestone pendant that adorns the top of each piece.

diki Lingerie, by Diane Rubach of Britain, includes the most glamourous and richest satin and silk garments with beaded sequins. Her “made-to-measure” bridal collection pieces are spectacular. Depending on the colour of the wedding gown, my favourite undergarment is the Tara Basque in delicate gold lace and exquisite gold embroidery. The beautiful part about wearing this gorgeous piece of workmanship is once the wedding gown is off and the honeymoon starts, other pieces of the collection may be added for a romantic effect. The gold lace jacket in long sleeves with the basque and matching thong or brief would make any wedding a memorable occasion.

Ophelia Fancy, handmade vintage inspired lingerie, instantly became recognized in the UK when winning the ‘Individual Designer Award’ at the Swatch Alternative Fashion Week 06. Their Silver Sixpence Bridal Collection is refined and dream-like. Imagine wearing lingerie proudly created with Swarovski crystals and the most expensive silks and laces. Here is their description of one of the bridal bras in the collection: “These pretty halter bras are created from pannels of ivory silk dupion and every seam is edged in soft ivory ribbon threaded lace topped with genuine Swarovski hot fix flat crystals they also feature two stunning crystal buttons.” The Pearl over Bust Corset is touted as the best one can buy and is “pattern perfected by one of the oldest running corset companies in the UK”. Pleated lace, beaded drop pearls and satin bow make this corset stunning.

And lastly, no wedding lingerie ensemble would be complete without the traditional garter. Bridal Angel in New Jersey, USA has a pretty selection of handmade garters from which to choose.

While researching companies who offer luxury bridal lingerie collections, I came across several incredible pieces that made my heart jump. I thought to myself, these garments are so exquisite that it would be a shame to wear them for only one occasion in a woman’s life. Indeed, the collection deserves to be illuminated.

Regaling in extravagant pieces made of dotted Swiss tulle, Leavers Lace and gold filigree, I found that the designer is Claire Pettibone, who with her husband Guy Toley launched their first designs in 1994. The creations are vintage inspired with modern design while at the same time provide elegance, indulgence and dreamy visions to the women who wear the collection.

It is difficult to choose a favourite piece in this collection as all the pieces stand out on their own as stunning beauties. But if I were forced to make a decision and choose, I love the delicate and feminine Viola line which includes a camisole, chemise, long gown, short jacket, boyshort briefs and thong. Made of sumptuous stretch lace with silk ribbon waist sash, I was enthralled to view this collection.

But the heart stopper for me, and the line that originally piqued my interest, making me wish I never had to wear outer clothes again, was the Athena. Venise lace appliqués and stretch lace in rose, white, slate, ivory and black, I have never seen undergarments so tantalizingly beautiful. The rose coloured camisole left me feeling envious of the model wearing it as I longed to own the garment. The slate chemise might double as a gorgeous cocktail dress. I can understand why the Athena is the company’s signature collection.

Although, it appears this collection may only be sold in upscale lingerie boutiques in the US (you can find these on the Claire Pettibone site using the store locator), several pieces are being sold online as well on higher end bridal sites, which ship internationally.

There was a time when a bra’s only purpose was to support and cover the breasts avoiding any sort of impropriety on the part of the woman. As women become more involved in social activities, however, many forms and styles of the bra emerged. Women were demanding more comfortable bras, skimpier bras, fancier bras and bras for different occasions such as bras made to be worn with halter tops and no-back evening gowns, bras with no straps and even bras for running or exercising.

Without question, going to the gym or an aerobics class was no treat in a regular bra. Even for small-busted women, the breasts jumped all over causing severe pain and sore backs. The thin straps cut into the shoulders when moving and the bra slid up over the breasts when stretching the arms above the head. Something more substantial and more appropriate was required. Enter the athletic or sports bra.

The fitness bra comes in many styles including racer back, t-back and y-back. The bra might be crop top styling, soft or molded cupped, underwire or wire-free cupped, low or high impact and may even have UV protection for outside use.

Some features to look for in a sports bra are:
• bras without metal clasps or plastic snaps that poke into the skin,
• breathable materials which absorb the perspiration keeping it away from the skin,
• friction-free bras which keep sensitive areas of the breast from chafing and leaving burn marks,
• armholes that are wide enough to allow movements while engaged in strenuous activities but not too wide as to allow spillage,
• seamless designs as the thread on the seam cuts into the skin,
• and tagless bras to avoid aggravation from the tag rubbing on the back or side of the body.

One designer that has made his mark in women’s yoga and fitness gear is Chip Wilson. He founded a company called “lululemon” when he discovered that people taking yoga classes did not have access to properly made clothing for the activity. Selling rudimentary products from his studio, he then advanced to opening a store in 2000. He professes basic values such as community involvement, charitable participation, the use of natural and sustainable raw materials and the fair treatment of employees and ultimately his fellow man.

Lastly, since the popularity of the fitness bra escalated, women are throwing away traditional bras and opting to wear the comfort-laden athletic bra to work and under their fancy clothes as well. Bare Necessities, an online retailer of women’s undergarments offers pages of sharp looking sports bras from many designers around the globe.

Leather is becoming increasingly more alluring and appealing to fashion conscious women as a choice in lingerie. Typically leather lingerie was considered only for “seedy characters”, women who worked in the trade or who had biker boyfriends to please. But leather collections have evolved into beautiful fashion statements for women of any social standing.

Perusing online stores such as Henry and June, Pampered Passions or Design Hers and one can see that leather has made a serious advancement in the world of lingerie. Baby dolls, corselettes, mini dresses and body suits dominate the selections of fine leather lingerie. Many of the bustiers and camisoles are fancy enough to replace tops with jean outfits or even substitute for the blouse worn with a gorgeous suede suit.

The smell and feel of quality leather has always been sensual and mysterious. The first time you wear a new leather jacket, you know you look smart. Imagine the same feeling so close to your skin. Showing a little leather under a low cut sweater or a bodysuit worn with a skirt can make any woman look hot.

When not wearing the leather item as part of the going-out ensemble, steam up the home life with a peek-a-boo leather bra or maybe a leather thong with rivets. Hot pink leather shorts with matching top really warm up the temperature fast in the cold winter nights.

Whatever you choose in leather lingerie, rest assured that leather is fashionable, classy and sexy. Leather lingerie can be bought in the finest boutiques as the past negative connotations and stigmas have been removed from the line.

Indeed, leather lingerie is no longer a game of whips and chains but rather a trendy, acceptable and highly sought after fashion necessity.

One thing I love about reviewing lingerie is being able to see the many gorgeous collections from around the world. Sometimes we women get caught up in our everyday lives buying the same thing day in and day out, choosing the same brand of panty, the same type of bra and always shopping at the same stores. We become creatures of habit. But I say we must live a little and today I saw the way to do just that with Spoylt. I fell in love in with this dainty and eloquent lingerie collection immediately.

Spoylt’s handmade creations exude luxury with names such as Ginger, Ingrid, Decadence, Radiance and Innocence. While I simply adore the new Greta collection, my favourite pieces were from the Cherish and Intrigue lines. The bright cerise colouring and flouncy frills made by heart race as I craved to order the Cherish camisole and hipster without hesitation.

But before I hit the “buy” button, I saw the Intrigue cami-knicker, a splendid display of sage lace in a unique one piece with chiffon sash. I thought about how incredible it would look under my suit with sheer blouse letting the gorgeous lace peek out. Next, I saw the Intrigue chemise and hipster. Alas, I was in real trouble. Should I buy the Cherish set, the Intrigue set or the Intrigue one piece? Most women would be happy that a collection offered so many matching pieces. I, on the other hand, now have an enormous decision to make.

Indeed, Spoylt is a powerful, yet sexy and feminine collection. Their company material says it best when they state that “every piece of collectible Spoylt lingerie is a harmonious blend of exquisite fabric and hand crafting”. Spoylt lingerie is a celebration of the female body and a celebration of fine tastes.

Dare to try something different this year and make a conscious effort to peruse the many retailers that offer Spoylt’s fine collection of magnificent lingerie. As the website says, “Enjoy Being Spoylt!”

More on Spoylt lingerie is on TLP!

Belabumbum, which is actually pronounced BelaBoomBoom, offers the most luxurious and fanciful maternity lingerie collection that would make any woman jealous. Playful and comfortable loungewear, sexy lace foundation wear and cute single and double piece bathing suits make it very difficult to believe these designs are made for pregnant women.

Their baby doll and pant sets are made to be worn, both to bed when sleeping and comfortably around the house, as the tops have adjustable straps and fully lined cups for extra support. The collection also offers nursing bras and panties in both a brief and thong style.

Belabumbum boasts all the right customers, too. They sell to many stars and are actually written up quite regularly when it becomes known that another celebrity is wearing their lingerie. Their Fall - Winter 2008 Maternity Collection will be shown in New York the last week of February. Products can be purchased online or in person in upscale boutiques across the United States, Toronto Canada and a few other international locations.

It is always nice to see any company giving back to the community but here are some quick highlights for lingerie companies around the world who have supported charities or community events through donations of money, time or sponsorships.

• Le Mystère has raised over $600,000US for The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women. You may have heard of Le Mystère as the company who makes the “Oprah bra” when Oprah named their Tisha bra as one of her favorite things.

• Marks and Spencer is the largest corporate sponsor of the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Organization. Aside from raising over £7,000,000 to date, M&S created and launched a line of post-surgery lingerie from which they donate ten percent of all sales.

• Joe Boxer, who sells fun whimsical men’s boxer shorts, ladies panties and little boys; Tshirts and shorts, regularly sponsors many charitable events and organizations. Some of them have included Dream Foundation, Literacy Partners, Inc, Robert Kennedy’s Waterkeeper Alliance, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre and the Pediatric Aids Foundation.

• Gaiam donates $5US which is about twenty percent from the sale of their Thoughtful Tees line to customer chosen non-profits around the world including World Wildlife Fund, Action Against Hunger, Heifer International, Doctors Without Borders, Rebuilding Together, Urban Zen Initiative and The Conservation Fund.

• Playtex (UK) is hugely active with the Walk the Walk Moonlit Marathon by donating office equipment, volunteers and creating specialty products to be sold and monies donated to the cause of Breast Cancer Research.

• Donna Karan New York supports many organizations. One of the areas in which they participate is children oriented areas such as Over the Wall, a camp for children who are seriously ill and RxArt, a non-profit that decorates a child’s hospital surroundings into beautiful creations. They have also offered per unit donations for bras tried on and purchased in stores during Breast Cancer Awareness times of the year.

Lingerie has always intrigued me. The feel of beautiful, soft fabric on my skin, dripping in lace and pretty delicacies, makes me feel like I have arrived. To me, living successfully is not amassing millions of dollars, but rather being able to buy the lingerie pieces that I adore. And while camisoles are important to me, bras, on the other hand, have never been a real favourite of mine. I liked and bought fancy bras but never saw anything that caught my eye enough for me to say “oh my goodness”. Until I saw the Ennia collection of bras and panties.

Further, thongs never made much sense to me at all. I paid even less attention to thongs than I did to bras. But again, when I saw the Ennia Rowena Thong, I thought to myself, “I must have that”. This statement comes from someone who would not even like to wear a thong.

But there is something dramatic, intense and mystifying about this incredibly gorgeous collection. It sounds rather overzealous to talk about bras and panties in this fashion, but when viewing this collection, I felt like a spell had been cast upon me.

Elegant designs, in colour schemes such as champagne and gold, vibrant pink and soft grey, and chocolate brown and cream finished off with Swiss embroidery and French Leavers Lace, make these pieces look like natural flowers on the skin. It seems almost unreal and ridiculous to call the boxer style shorts and the boy shorts such masculine and simplistic names. The panties are far from being masculine and the intricate detailing warrants a name (other than boxer and boy) more befitting of the exquisite work.

Ennia, founded in 1987 in Spain, is sold throughout most of the world. Its founder, Mercedes Vila, has grown a large loyal business while at the same keeping small family values and quality control intact. Her team of twenty ladies, based in a little workshop in La Coruna, boasts the beautiful designs with new collections being released each year and no mass production of pieces. In fact, they claim that if your size of lingerie is not available, the ladies will try to make it personally for you.

The epitome of success for me would be to visit this little workshop and see the ladies creating some of these divine creations. Ennia has a website — it’s right here!

Like your lingerie luxurious like I do? BUT — like your freebies too? Well, The Lingerie Post has launched a contest, and you’re still in time to get your entry in for a massive $2,000 linegrie prizepool!

Labels such as Secrets In Lace, Frankly Darling, Patrick & Skinner, Pfiff, Eberjey and quite a few more have pieces in the draw — so it’s very much worth giving it a go!

Good luck!