Since Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, I’ve been thinking about lingerie and how it has evolved.
First off, a bit of history…so it seems undergarments have been worn, off and on, and off again, since ancient times. By the beginning of the 19th century, chemises, also known as shifts of slips, were worn underneath clothing for hygienic purposes. Then came corsets. First used in medieval times, they helped give women a shapelier figure and were often part of formalwear. Bloomers, the precursor to underpants, were born with the early women’s rights. In 1914 century, Mary Phelps Jacob patented the first modern brassiere, which she made using two handkerchiefs and ribbon. Yet all of these looks were about functionality, not sex appeal.
Thirty years later, Frederick Mellinger invented the push-up bra, which he sold at a store he opened in Hollywood in 1947. His company, Frederick’s of Hollywood, went on to become the most famous lingerie maker in the world, taking sexy to a new level. Its coveted catalog has featured many famous models and actresses, including Betty Paige, Jayne Mansfield and Pamela Anderson. Frederick’s of Hollywood is still around but Victoria’s Secret changed the market making sexy underwear more affordable and, as there is one in just about every mall, easy to find.
Victoria’s Secret may have become synonymous with lingerie for many but design houses La Perla and Agent Provocateur have taken it to a new level with pieces that are beautifully detailed and use the finest fabrics.
This Calypso Mesh bodysuit by La Perla is exquisitely embroidered with a jet, thin cord and fine metal chains contrasting the mesh of the back, neckline and less private parts. It is classy, sexy and original. It is also $924. In the same price range, Agent Provocateur’s Stevie Corset ($980) made with French lace, satin and sheer lined tulle, has a more retro look.
This is actually one of their more tame pieces, as items such as the Lacy Playsuit ($390) are a tad more revealing. Costly as these pieces might be, I have always been of the belief that fine lingerie is well worth it.
You don’t have to spend upwards of $400 or more to find high quality lingerie. Besides Victoria’s Secret, Bare Necessities, an on-line company, and department stores carry a range of products. So if you are still wondering what to get a special woman in your life, remember, chocolate and roses are nice but a sexy negligee is forever!
