We’ve just experienced the first proper sunny weekend of the year! A walk on the beach, a stroll through botanical gardens and sipping a coffee sitting outside all contributed to that feel-good factor during a blue sky and sun-drenched couple of days. Perhaps it’s the body’s reaction to a good dose of vitamin D that gives you that anything-is-possible feeling (when else does the thought of living in a rustic abode in the middle of nowhere make sense?), who cares, at least Spring has finally sprung! Wellies and sunglasses ditched and with (mostly) sense prevailing, it’s now back to urban living and luxury lingerie – or rather, legwear.

Nearly Nude

Nude tights have been a no no for me over the years: they’re either too shiny, too thin or just don’t look right. I’m an opaque girl and love thick tights, even when the sun is out. If I want to go nude I get my legs out of tights (which is not very often in bonnie Scotland). Don’t get me wrong I love looking at nude tights and have plenty of pairs kicking about, all tried and put straight back into a drawer. My theory is I feel too naked when wearing nude, which is probably the point, except with my skin tone naked doesn’t necessarily equal attractive – especially when harsh winds take the temperature down by a further ten degrees.

Hot Hosiery

I’m proud to say hot legwear began its comeback in Scotland, a sweeping statement perhaps, but when Bebaroque brought out its first collection of printed and embroidered tights, the world of legwear became a darn sight more exciting. Having jumped on the bandwagon, we’ve seen a whole host of other designers and labels bring daring designs to our shelves over the last few years. I’ve always been a fan of snazzy tights and having experimented with anything from stripes, flowers and bright colours, I now know a little less can definitely be more.

Nearly there legwear looks undoubtedly hot on some and less so on others, however now the likes of Bebaroque and Wolford are bringing us designs to die for, even nude-no-no die-hards like me are softening. Who could resist (tasteful) stars and sparkly rhinestones?

Taking The Plunge

If nude’s never been your thing, it’s worth taking a look at some of the hot new designs on offer. As with anything, quality is going to make a big difference: it’s not about spending a fortune, it’s about spending wisely! I love pretty much anything by Bebaroque, one because they’re great for longer or bigger legs (one size appears to fit all in their case) and secondly, just when you think legwear can’t get any better, Bebaroque prove you wrong. Wolford, often seen as the crème de la crème of the legwear world, doesn’t have to break the bank, and you’re guaranteed to get a great pair of tights. If you do want to go all out nude, check out French label Cervin, who do the most fabulous authentic, 1950s nylon stockings, and German brand Falke cleverly do nude tights in different shades and up to size XXL.

Having seen what I’ve been missing I’ve decided, my new season resolution is to take the plunge and go nude!

Featured Products

Wolford at Tights Please (first image): Nola Tights, £28.
Bebaroque (second image): Sadie Tights £59.95; Maude Tights, £195.
Cervin at Hepburn & Leigh (third image): Tentation Stockings £22.
Henry Holland at Tights Please (above): Superstar Gold Tights, £15.

When you spend £40 at Bedtime Flirt and use coupon code: REDHOT at checkout you’ll receive free U.K. standard shipping and a free pair of stockings as their gift to you.  This offer is valid until Monday 14 February 2011.

The Flirt wears lingerie that is sassy and, of course, flirty! Whether it’s bold in colour or bold in design, above all, the Flirt wears her lingerie with confidence – and loves an audience!

Not sure what your lingerie personality is? Take the quiz!

Mimi Holliday Frou Frou Thong

Available at Faire Frou Frou, $72

Miss Mandalay – Gigi Frill and Leopard Bow

Miss Mandalay up to G Cup at FairyGothMother, £40 (bra) £23 (Knickers)

Les Jupons de Tess – Slipdress

Les Jupon de Tess available at Cazar, Euro 189

The fabulous Lingerie Collective have now packed up their collections in London, but we need not fret, it’s time to cross the waters to Salon de la Lingerie in Paris. We’ll be back next week with news, updates, photos and videos – until then, here are some treats!

Chantal Thomass – Ligne Maliceuse

Check it out at: Chantal Thomass

Burdel – Queen of France Babydoll

Check it out at: Bella Bella Boutique

Maison Close – Cabaret Royal

Check it out at: Maison Close

Aubade – 1958

Check it out at: Aubade

Homepage Image: Fifi Chachnil

Take 25% off everything in stock at the adorable Loulou Loves You when you use coupon code: YES at checkout.  This offer is valid until Tuesday, January 11, 2011.

As the Christmas countdown reaches its last few days, we take a little look at some of our favourite pieces from this season:

Tallulah Love Vintage Skirt

Tallulah Love Vintage Skirt £150

Kiam-Lian Cleaver

Available at Kiam-Lian Cleaver, around £46

Animal Instincts by Fred & Ginger

Fred & Ginger Animal Instincts Collection from £65

Nuisette by Chantal Thomass

Available at CAZAR, Euro 269

Bel-Ami by Maison Close

Available at Faire Frou Frou $95

Homepage Image

Toad Lillie at Faire Frou Frou, from around $100

These utterly adorable bunny slippers have featured highly on the lingerie scene in the last wee while, and are still top of our list of cute things. A Flirt will look at these in adoration every time they get a chance to prance!

Available at Faire Frou Frou, $63

A silky Flirt is a happy Flirt! Bang on trend in navy blue this adorable teddy by established boutique designer Ayten Gasson will go down a treat with its subtle but beautiful addition of vintage lace!
Available at La Magia £98

A pair of cheeky Striptease Ballet Knickers by What Katie Did are just what Santa should order for your Flirt! Cute with retro twist, the Striptease collection will be very welcome to any Flirt who loves to play!

Available at What Katie Did, £26, in pink or black.

For the ultimate Christmas gift for your Lingerie Flirt, go for a custom made silk satin playsuit from Australian designer Hopeless. She will love that you took the effort to have a piece made to order just for her, and the playful style of this suit will perfectly match her personality. Don’t delay though – all custom-made pieces require a long lead time to order! The playsuit is $124, which we think is a steal for made-to-order.

Knicker’s reader exclusive!  Save 10% off everything in stock at Hopeless Lingerie when you use promotion code: KNICKERS10 at checkout. This offer is good only for a limited time.

Don’t worry, it’s not for long! In the meantime, we’ve picked some of our favourite things to keep you going…

Bunny Mules by Streetzies!

Available at Faire Frou Frou ($63)

Bugsy Bodysuit by Bordelle

Available at Faire Frou Frou ($475)

La Perla Dea Body

Available at Journelle ($469)

Private Lace Body by Fleur of England

Available from Fleur of England (£149)

Delicate Cape by Makepiece

Available at Makepiece (currently on sale £130)

Homepage Image Bebaroque: For their incredible new collection visit Bebaroque

If you’ve never come across Taschen (the Cologne-based publisher), you’ve definitely been missing out! Along with slightly more risqué themes, Taschen also publish fabulous books about art, photography, interior design and fashion, as well as a host of other tantalising subjects. Benedikt Taschen, the brain child behind the company, started selling his own drawings in Cologne as a mere nine year old; since then the publisher’s name has become synonymous with iconic celebrities and imagery.

More Than Meets The Eye

Taschen’s passion for the more than occasional bit of naked skin isn’t an indication for a need to expose tasteless porn, rather it is a celebration of cult photography, art – and a little open-mindedness! Not so long ago I was delighted to receive the Gil Elvgren Taschen Pin Up book as a gift: hailed as ‘the best pin-up artist in the history of American illustration’, Elvgren’s fascinating and exciting illustrations go much further than what initially meets the eye. Playful innuendos, stories, fashion and of course lingerie all contribute to making these some of the most adorably mesmerising pictures.

Dressing Up

For those who love to dress up and pose, the recent increase in exposure of the pin-up trend will have been welcomed with open arms. We love to see pages like Rebel Pin Up with their daily dose of pin-up, submitted by those with a passion for dressing up. For those who love the images but have never had the courage or resources to hand, now is your chance to seize the opportunity to shine!

How To Do Pin Up

Contrary to belief, dressing for pin up isn’t all about finding the sexiest or most revealing lingerie. In fact, it’s much more about confidence, fun and a bit of cheekiness! Often it’s the most alluring images that show the least amount – our imaginations do the rest.
Naturally the grass is always greener on the other side: while today’s society has a tendency to promote a more androgynous figure, the iconic pin-up figure is generally of the more voluptuous variety. The latter day obsession with airbrushing out curves appears to have been the reverse in the days of Elvgren, who was far more likely to favour brushing in additional curves – pictures can be made ‘perfect’ whatever the trend. My point is: don’t worry about what you don’t have, go with what you’ve got and feel good about yourself – loving yourself is the key to looking fabulous!

What To Wear?

In the ‘good old days’ stockings weren’t just something you wore to flirt with your beau, however they still had that je ne sais quoi, and the cheeky glimpse of the top of said hosiery was certainly part of a pin-up’s allure. I remember way back trying to find ‘nylon stockings’ and ‘retro lingerie’ with my newly acquired internet skills (yes, that long ago); as I waded my way through some rather unsavoury items, both online and in second hand shops, I only ever came across items that were way out of my price range and that needed some serious attention. Luckily we now live in a marvellous world where labels and stores such as Kiss Me Deadly, What Katie Did, Lulu and Lush and
For Luna fulfil our need for adorable, retro-style lingerie, hosiery and swimwear.

For the rest you just need your imagination, and by that I don’t mean to sound rude: however what is our favourite pin-up might not be yours! Force yourself to be something you’re not and, unless you’re blessed with supermodel adaptability, you’re not going to feel comfortable. Find your fave and have a look through your wardrobe, you’ll be surprised what you can find and even adapt for your chosen pin-up look! And if you need more inspiration, check out Gil Elvgren’s Taschen Pin Up Book!

Where To Buy!

For those who need help finding retro-style lingerie and accessories, here are our online favourites for the pin up look:

Kiss Me Deadly (for retro-style shapewear and French-manufactured nylon and silk stockings)
FairyGothMother/Lulu and Lush (for corsets and clothing)
Modern Courtesan@Glam Am (for tasteful costumes)
Pandora’s Choice (for retro-style lingerie, girdles and knickers)
Stop Staring (Fabulous Dresses and outfits)
What Katie Did (for bullet bras, corsets, bloomers and frilly knickers)
Ayten Gasson (for glamorously cute, silk teddies and nightdresses)
Funn Hosiery@Last (for a colourful selection of gorgeous and originally-manufactured silk, wool and cotton stockings)
For Luna (Fabulous, retro-style swimwear)

Since we first covered Kriss Soonik in 2007, we’ve been cheering from the sidelines as she’s developed her bold little brand for “girl-hearted women” into a well-known directional label. We love Soonik because she maintains signature styles and shapes, but with each season, you get to try out a whole new alter ego. Last season with Soonik we got to dress up like Snow White, and this season, we get to crimp our hair and go Flashdance mad. Brilliant!

Kriss Soonik’s Spring/Summer 2010 Collection

Drenched in neon pink and accented with a perfectly retro buttercup yellow, Soonik’s Spring/Summer collection beautifully broadcasts her ultimate message for each season – have some fun wearing this lingerie. We’re not sure how anyone could wear the Francesca Pyjama (pictured above) without messing up their hair and dancing around in it, and Soonik’s neon pink version of her suspender top (pictured below) is equally disco-worthy. In an industry dominated by well-defined “romantic” looks, it’s refreshing to see a label that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Where to buy the collection

You can buy Soonik’s new collection at her website, where it looks like she’s still making pieces of the collection available. Prices range from £39 for a pair of knickers to £89 for the dressing gown and tops. You can also pick up a few key pieces at Glamorous Amorous, including the gorgeous hot pink suspender top (£89).

We’re delighted to see that Soonik is still reinventing her “girl-hearted” style, and we can’t think of a better way to welcome in the hot summer nights — get yourself into a Soonik and get dancing!

Looking for lingerie with a little extra?

More Please

If you fancy more than silk and lace, why not go for fringing? Multi-functional, it has that ‘I could wear it as outerwear’ look and yet the über-sexy, tantalising fringe will also work wonders in the boudoir. We love the sheer, delicate powder blue of this Ell&Cee set (above), complete with a glam, gold tipped pearl cluster; if the girls won’t allow for the top, the stunning, fringed knickers would look gorgeous all by themselves (though if you’re venturing outside, cover up underneath)!

More Than You Bargained For!

Fringing might not feature in everyday lingerie, but there’s nothing stopping you wearing a show-stopping piece on a week night. Shed those restricting office clothes and prance around in your private burlesque show – someone may just get more than they bargained for on an otherwise dull night! One of our favourite designers, Lascivious, has a knack for designing lingerie that is not only beautiful but downright showtastic and the Dixie suit (above) is an absolute favourite!

Flap Your Worries Away!

Those who love fun without the hassle will love this dress by Hell Bunny. It’s not strictly lingerie, but don your favourite knickers and you’ve got yourself a fabulously fun night in – pop on a pair of tights and heels and you’ll go from boudoir to ball in a matter of minutes – simple!

Where To Get It

Ell & Cee Bluetit Bra and Knickers (top) each £48, available at Fairygothmother

Dixie Bodysuit (middle) available at Faire Frou Frou ($240) and Lascivious (£186)

Flapper Dress (above) by Hell Bunny £40, available at Fairygothmother

It’s not that we’re sick of Alice (yet), but we reckon Dorothy is just as cute and definitely worthy of a mention when it comes to musical/film/fairytale-inspired lingerie.

Ophelia Fancy, Clowning Around

Dorothy’s Wizard of Oz pinafore is probably one of the most copied costumes, whether it’s for the amateur dramatic society or the downright saucy lingerie outfitters. Needless to say tacky copies are easy to find, but luckily beauty is in the eye of the beholder and designs come in all shapes and sizes, and some of the shapes are gorgeous in our eyes.

Fifi Chachnil, Celine Despres

Gingham is fabulously versatile and never-endingly on trend: we love its coquettish, Dorothy-esque innocence as well as its ability to spice up a lingerie drawer as soon as spring makes its annual entrance. A glimpse of gingham may have you reminiscing about a favourite dress you had as a child or even a tablecloth you took on picnics, and it is this kind of nostalgia that makes gingham so wonderfully adaptable to designers (anything you can use as a tablecloth and double up as a pair of knickers must be good).

Red Strawberries, Floozie

If you love the thought of frolicking under a rainbow in a cute, gingham all-in-one, you’ll love Ophelia Fancy’s, handmade, midnight blue and white playsuit (Top image) with a beautifully cut out back and the prettily-tied straps, £80; or for something with a lighter price tag, why not go for Floozie’s red gingham playsuit (above) with strawberry edging, £18. And if you love the thought but couldn’t face the prospect of wearing a playsuit, why not go for bra and knickers instead? The queen of cute and flirty (and endlessly fabulous) French lingerie, Fifi Chachnil, has designed yet another gorgeous gingham set (middle image) – Celine Despres – perfect for nostalgic, lingerie-loving grown ups.

For more information about Fifi Chachnil, including the cardigan and Babyloo playsuit featured on today’s homepage image image, go to Fifi Chachnil’s Online Boutique.

Mimi Holliday Leopard Print Chiffon Teddy

The animal print trend is hotter than ever this season and Mimi Holliday has got in on the action. While leopard print can be a label’s potentially tacky downfall, designer Damaris Evans has got this one spot on. We adore the chiffon Teddy with detachable tie belt and gorgeous frilled legs. As it’s becoming more acceptable to wear your lingerie on the outside, we’re thinking this could be another strong contender; if that’s just too daring a thought, this adorably sexy piece will most certainly woo the pants off you and your beau at home!

Mimi Holliday’s Variations on a Theme

A leopard print may not be able to change its spots but it can change its design: what we love about Mimi Holliday is the variation of bras and knickers available – not forgetting that the label now goes up to a celebratory G cup! Choose from a silk padded balcony bra or a super plunge bra and French Knicker, thong or the Damaris signature bow-backed thong. A successful collection? We think so!

Get it at:

In the US: Mimi Holliday Teddy, $145; Balcony Bra, $88; Silk bow thong, $65, available from Catriona Mackechnie.

And for those in the UK: Mimi HollidayTeddy, £78; Balconette Bra, £47; Silk Knickers, £32, available from Boudiche.

Also, go to Damaris for the full range in designs and sizes.

The Queen of Hearts, of course – or did she just bake them?

Boudoir Bunny

Like it or not, Alice in Wonderland fever is upon us and what better way to get in on the action than with lingerie!
Bunnies Forever hopped onto the scene last year and brought with it this very cheeky Queen of Hearts set. With a background in costume design and a passion for fantasy and lingerie , it’s no surprise that Taj Noël Cambridge loves to add a touch of theatrical flirtiness to her silk lingerie. There’s nothing better than bringing a bit of fun to the boudoir and if you love a decadent twist to your evening, this set is perfect!

Available from the fabulous Bordello, priced at £195
For more information check out Bunnies Forever

We are down to the final count for Valentine’s Day, and the final few picks! Here’s our favourites for your Flirt:

If you’re not sure what lingerie personality she is, why not take our quiz and find out!

Fifi Chachnil “Babyloo” Romper

Your Flirt probably has a drawer full of lingerie, but we bet she doesn’t have anything like this adorable romper! We love the “Peter Pan” collar, the gathered shorts, and the coquettish vibe. We especially love that it’s on sale at Faire Frou Frou for $197!

What Katie Did Striptease Mix-and-Match Set

This mix-and-match “Striptease” set from What Katie Did is a perfect choice for your Flirt — you can buy from a huge range of satin accessories, including everything from a bra, tie-side knicker, and garter to matching pasties and an eye mask. You have five colours to choose from – we recommend something other than red! Get as little or as much as you like for a very saucy Valentine’s Day!

Available at La Magia, starting at £10.

Elle Macpherson “Artistry” Bra Set

Here’s one set where the traditional black and red are perfect — this beautiful lacy “Artistry” set is a perfect choice for your Flirt, and it’s available for sizes DD-G as a bonus! She’ll be able to pair it up with any black suspender belt, and look amazing!

Available at Figleaves US for $88, or £55 at Figleaves UK.

We have a winner!

We would like to thank everyone who entered our competition to win a gorgeous eye mask and silk cuffs by Ayten Gasson.
The lucky winner is Sara!

If you didn’t win this time, keep an eye out for more competitions here at Knickers! And if you love Ayten’s lingerie, why not check out her beautiful boutique…

Fleur of England Competition Winner!

We’d like to thank everyone who took the time to complete our survey! We also have a winner from our
Fleur of England competition – the lucky one is Lindsay from the US!

Enter The Ayten Gasson Contest!

If you didn’t win the Fleur of England contest – don’t worry! We’ve got another gorgeous giveaway for you, just in time for Valentine’s Day!

Known for her glamorous silk and lace designs, Ayten Gasson is one of the lingerie world’s darlings. Her hand-made pieces are all made to perfection in England, using Nottingham lace and beautiful silk. To be in with a chance of winning an Ayten Gasson silk and lace eyemask and a set of cuffs from her beautiful new Eva collection, just fill in the form below!

(If you’re reading this article in an e-mail or by RSS and can’t see the form, just visit the article’s page to enter)

A quick note about Knickers competitions — in the past we have automatically entered all our e-mail subscribers into our competitions, but unfortunately we have found that we don’t always get a reply from the winner. So we’ve set up this shiny new system so that those who really want to be in with a chance of winning can enter the contest!

Here’s a treat from our recent visit to the Salon de la Lingerie in Paris — this burlesque performance was put on by luxury label Maison Close and Miss Scarlet Diamond, and it caused quite a stir at the Expo indeed!

If you can’t see the video, you can view it at YouTube using this link. Many thanks to Maison Close and the show organisers for letting us film the performance!

We need to collect some reader demographics and thought it was high time to give our lovely readers some treats, so we’ve bundled everything up together, just in time for Valentine’s Day!

Take the reader survey, help Knickers keep going!

The keen-eyed amongst you might have noticed a few changes around the site: we’ve re-designed our homepage, slipped into some more comfortable fonts, and we’ve added some new “advertise here” links about the place. This is all part of an advertising overhaul we are doing internally, and the final piece we need is a media kit with demographic information about our readers.

We know that we have an exclusive audience of lingerie lovers, but we need some information from you so that we can show our advertisers how unique you are. Don’t worry, we’re not “selling out” and we’re certainly not compromising editorial for advertising! What we are doing is trying to take advertising a little more seriously this year — imagine that!

You can help out by taking the survey now — it will take less than five minutes of your time! Lingerie industry readers – we want to hear from you too!

Win £150 from Fleur of England and get a heap of discounts!

Fleur of England Giveaway

We’re not just relying on your goodwill to fill out our reader survey – we also want to thank you for your time by passing along some treats! Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win £150 worth of Fleur of England’s stunning new Crush collection. Available in Valentine’s-perfect ruby red and fuschia, this collection boasts all of Fleur’s signature greats: a gorgeous lace-edged kimono, a larger-cup Fleurtatious bra, and a huge selection of bras and knickers to create your perfect set. We will announce the winner here at Knickers on 1st February, giving Fleur time to get your set to you by Valentine’s Day. Click here to see all prize rules – entries are limited to the US, UK and Canada.

Exclusive discounts

Even if you don’t win the prize, we’ve still got you covered for Valentine’s Day – everyone who completes the survey will get an e-mail with exclusive discount coupons for gorgeous designer lingerie and accessories, like these gorgeous longline knickers from Kiss Me Deadly pictured above. You will get the following discounts:

• 20% off at Playful Promises
• 20% off at Hepburn & Leigh
• 15% off at Silky Sensations
• 15% off at Ayten Gasson
• 15% off at new erotic toy site, Pleasure Galaxie

Once you’ve taken the survey, you will instantly get a confirmation e-mail with these discount codes, and they will be valid until 1st February, when the survey closes. Thank you in advance to all of our wonderful readers for your continued support, and happy shopping!

Go and take the survey now!

It’s January, the month to make resolutions – and the month to break resolutions (which is why I make mine in February). We know how tough it is to keep New Year’s resolutions, so we thought we’d suggest one we’re sure you’ll keep!

Wonderful Ways With Wood!

As a child I remember learning how to make recycled paper – it was a messy business and quite honestly it didn’t produce anything worthy of using a pen on. Whizz forward a few decades and recycled products have hit big business.

Of all the recycled products I’ve come across this has got to be one of the sexiest: recycled pine-tree fibre lingerie – made in France. This incredulous-sounding product is so appealing I’m willing to do pretty much anything to get my hands on it. Among its attributes g=98 lingerie boasts temperature-regulating comfort and cashmere softness – not necessarily what we’d expect to hear from a Pine tree.

At a pretty reasonable 28 Euros for a sexy shorty, I’m pretty much hooked. And as the shorty skips its way into my shopping cart, I’m finding myself clicking on ‘continue shopping’ as I wistfully look at the equally reasonable leggings!

Comforting Cotton

Silk and Organic Cotton at Greenfibres

No matter which lingerie personality you are, there’s sure to be a pair of comfortable cotton knickers filling a cosy place in your lingerie drawer. I recently discarded my old favourites and am still waiting to fill the void they left.

After much searching these rather lovely (in a comforting way) and simple silk and organic cotton knickers (£23.99) at Greenfibres attracted my attention. In terms of price they aren’t going to satisfy those who normally go for a five pack at the supermarket, but you can always treat yourself to one pair to go alongside your regular-priced cotton pants (for these try Gossypium, priced around £3)!

Sensational Silk!

Violet Haze by Enamore

It goes without saying that when we talk ethical, we have to mention Enamore: cute, flirty and downright sexy, Enamore show no signs of slowing down when it comes to lingerie. We loved their Bedrock collection, and this season their Violet Haze shorts (£42) are not only ticking the ethical boxes, they’re bang on with colour, style and of course fabric. Unless you have a kind wallet, these aren’t going to be your everyday knickers; but considering they’re made to order and made of silk and English lace (all ethical of course), the price tag seems tame compared to some!

With something to suit pretty much everyone (remember those Gossypium £3 knickers at ByNature), we’re sure a New Year’s resolution like this is going to stick – after all, the great thing here is: no withdrawal is needed!

When you’re given beautiful lingerie the last thing you want to think about is laundry instructions. We hate to be the ones stopping you from having fun, but take care of your lingerie and you’ll be having fun for a lot longer!

Washing is essential!

Ovación Lingerie Wash

After a study last year (source: The Daily Mail) revealed that women are less than hygienic when it comes to washing their smalls, we were a touch horrified. Lingerie might be too delicate to pop into the machine but that’s no excuse for not washing it at all – like any other garment, clean lingerie is essential!

I don’t have enough time to handwash!

Le Blanc Silk and Lingerie Wash

If you’re among the lucky ones to have received luxurious lingerie this Christmas, don’t even think about putting it in the washing machine. And if you’re among the lucky ones to have bagged yourself a wondrous luxury lingerie bargain, there’s no excuse either. If you want your lingerie to last, hand wash it.

We know you’ll always be able to find something better to do than stand over the sink with your hands in detergent – but come on, it doesn’t take that long! Using a gorgeous lingerie wash (see our suggestions) will help you to enjoy going back to granny’s days of hand washing – and keep in mind: retro’s back!

Just remember!

The Laundress Delicate Lingerie and Swimwear wash

Even when you’re hand washing: always follow the recommended lingerie instructions, use a detergent specifically for lingerie, keep bras fastened to avoid snagging, and separate light colours from dark. As far as drying is concerned, tumble dryers are an absolute no-no – leave to air dry.

And now you can continue to enjoy your new lingerie!

Where to buy lovely lingerie wash

Journelle for Ovacion Lingerie Wash $10

The Little Flirt for Le Blanc Lingerie and Silk Wash, $12

Boudiche (UK) and The Laundress (US) for The Laundress Lingerie Wash, £20/$19

Bare Necessities Stain Remover for delicates $7

We might be in the throes of Christmas shopping (and secretly saving for the sales) but we always keep an eye on what’s up and coming…

Dirty Pretty Things

Launched at Selfridges this week, Dirty Pretty Things is a new lingerie label – and it’s hot! There may be a touch of the naughties about it, but we’re certainly not shying away from the new vixen in town. We’re seeing dark and dangerous as well as wild and wonderful – and to top it all off, we’ve seen the hottest pink peeking out from this inaugural collection.

As it’s an exclusive to Selfridges until January, we don’t yet have the pleasure of seeing the collection in any online stores, but we’ll be keeping a watchful eye out. Until then, why not join us and add Dirty Pretty Things to your list of things to look at come the new year!

Else Signature Collection

This isn’t strictly a new label, however this Turkish lingerie label is relatively unknown. Else is a beautifully designed, sophisticated luxury label and we adore its gorgeous, deep colours and understated use of lace. As far as online stockists go, we’ve noted US boutique Journelle as one of the listed online stores, but are yet to find it among their array of beautifully chosen items. Luckily Dames&Broads carry Else’s current collection; and for those who love the collection as much as we do, you’ll find right now it’s even on sale!

There’s no doubt about it, we’ll be keeping our beadies on this fine label in 2010!

Les Jupon de Tess

Another label that’s been around for a while but not been seen (online) is the exquisite-looking, Lolita-esque Les Jupon de Tess. Inspired by the 18th century woman, we’re hoping this label will call out to us when we’re in Paris again – the thought of this boudoir label not being part of our lingerie life is a little too much for us.

While we’re waiting

At least we have gorgeous images to look at until we hear more – and until then, why not check out the details here!

New lingerie stores are (understandably) a little scarce right now, so we’re very happy to announce that Playful Promises have just opened their first store!

Pretty and Playful

Spring Blossom Corset
Playful Promises started up in 2004 and we’ve had the pleasure of their pretty, playful lingerie online ever since. Appealing to those who love all things flirty, romantic and occasionally a little bit saucy, Playful Promises create affordable lingerie for those who love to…well, play!

Just In Time For Christmas!

Miss American Pie
With the Playful boutique now open, those lucky enough to live nearby in London will be able to pop in for a cheeky little something for themselves or their loved-one, just in time for Christmas! My absolute favourite is the Playful Promises signature silk corsage set – now available in Christmassy red…

Get It Here!

For those of you who live nearby, you’ll find the new Playful Promises boutique at:

136 Bethnal Green Road,
London E2 6DG
(nearest tube Liverpool Street)

For those who don’t – no need to fret – they also have an online store where you can find the gorgeous Spring Blossom corset (£50), Miss American Pie (£35) as well as their Pin-up Panties (£15) that come in a cute tin. With delivery costs within the UK a mere £1.75 and to the rest of the world a pretty reasonable £7, there’s really no reason to resist!

We hope you will join us in congratulating Playful Promises and wishing them every success for the future!

Glamorous Amorous Last Nights of Christmas Delights!

For the last two of the 12 Nights of Christmas of Delights Glamorous Amorous special deal is 25% off all orders (no minimum purchase required) including anything from the Super Christmas Sale.  My Christmas wish list includes this ethereal Damaris Scattered Swarovski Knickers (rrp. £125) but for the next two days they’re only £38.  You’ll want to hurry tho’ because stock is selling fast, shipping takes time (UK until the 20th., overseas by Monday the 14th at the latest) and the sale is almost over.

Jimmyjane’s Little Somethings $99

By popular demand, for the next two days only Jimmyjane is again offering their Little Gold and Little Platinum vibes for only $99 (regularly $325 and $395) and Free Shipping on all orders over $125 as well as a host of wonderful boudoir products on sale (scroll down to Monthly Specials)  including the yummy massage oil candles at 50% off.  Orders must be places by Tuesday, December 15th for  standard ground Christmas delivery.  For other holiday shipping options click HERE.

Herroom Sale & Free Shipping!

Today,  December 11th, is the last day to  get free shipping (no minimum order amount, no coupon code required) at Herroom.  They are also having a wonderful sale which includes up to 50% off sleepwear and up to 70% off clearance.  Now you can pick-up a gift for that naughty or nice person on your list.   (shown: Barbara’s Caaravanerail Panty now $40).

Zodee Sale & Free Worldwide Shipping

From now until December 21, 2009 Zodee, another Australian site, is offering free worldwide shipping, when you spend $50 (AUD) or more and pay with Paypal and $5 off your 1st order (when you join the Zodee Club).  And right now you can save up to 60% off lingerie, swimwear & men’s wear from brand names including Elle MacPherson Intimates, Hot Milk, Fayreform, Freya and more.  As you would guess, if you order now you might be able to get it before Christmas.  (shown: Fayreform Platinum Thespian Bra now $66 USD (20% off ).

Bulb Holiday Specials

Australia based Bulb Lingerie is having quite a sale with saving of up to 60% off and with prices starting as low as $40 (AUD).  To see all the lingerie on sale view Sets & All Sale.  Per Australian Post international airmail can take 3 – 10 days, therefore if you want to get in on these great deals you’ll need to order no later than Friday, December 11th (you’ll need to contact Bulb regarding postage fees).  (shown: The Sweet Shop Cami & Knicker now only $60).

New Inventory @The Outnet

Net-a-porter’s outlet site, The Outnet, has just added more top name designer lingerie at up to 75% off including La Perla Indomitable briefs (were $160, now $40), Jovovich-Hawk Honey Jam dress (rrp. $230, now $69), Myla at up to 75% off, Stella McCartney at up to 60% off and so much more.  Stock and sizes are very limited so hurry!  (shown: Stella McCartney Silk Body (size US10) 50% off, now $110)

Julianna Rae Clearance Sale

Julianna Rae has added inventory to her clearance sale -where you can save up to 70% off.  New ranges include the clean, classic styles from  Love Letters, Uniquely Yours and  Evening Blooms.  Shipping starts at $7 within the U.S. (they do ship overnight if you are shopping at the last minute) and they also ship internationally -please contact them for rates.  (shown Love Letters silk robe (was $145) now $90).

Le Bourget and Wolford On Sale @Vente-Prive

The next 6 days will be heaven for legwear lovers because starting today and going until Friday, December 11,  membership site Vente-Prive has Le Bourget Paris hosiery and lingerie on sale with prices starting as low as £2.  Starting Friday, December 11 through Monday, December 14 the fabulously enticing  Wolford hosiery and ready to wear will be on sale.   Sadly they don’t ship to the U.S. nor can they guarantee Christmas delivery.  Also as mentioned this is a membership site, so if you need an invite, feel free to drop me a line.

Ed Hardy Sale @Top Secret

For those of you not able to attend the Ed Hardy Intimates Sample Sale in Los Angeles and still need a gift for the rocker chick in your life?  Today and tomorrow shop for Ed Hardy online via Top Secret.  You’ll also get an extra $5 to $15 off your orders when you spend between $50 to $150 and use promotion codes: LITTLE LOVE , BIGLOVE or HUGELOVE.  Top Secret is a membership site, so if you need an invite you know the drill.

Deal of the Day @Freshpair

The deal of the day at Freshpair is the Magic Silk silk chiffon chemise for only $10 and Free Shipping -within the U.S on all orders, no minium purchase required.  This is an ideal stocking stuffer (sizes S – XL available) for her and for him they have Ginch Gonch, Adam and C-IN2 all at 50% off.

In-Store Sample Sales: London & Los Angeles

This weekend December 12th & 13th, stop by the Ophelia Fancy Sample Sale for bargains galore.   The sale is from 10 – 7 on Saturday and 11 – 5 on Sunday at the Fabrica Gallery, Duke Street, Brighton.  Please note: this is a cash only sale. (edit  CANCELED)

On Sunday December, 13th., join the Holiday Sample Sale & Shopping Party in Los Angeles.  Enjoy cocktails, sweet treats and listening to groovy tunes while shopping (and saving up to 70% off) for loungewear from Erin Braxton, lingerie from The Little Bra Co. and knitwear from Jenny Han just to name a few. The hours are from 11:30 -5 at Movement Studio: 7409 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles.  Proceeds from this sale go to Journey Forward, a non-profit organization dedicated to bettering the lives of individuals who have suffered a spinal cord injury.

Gorgeous new lingerie is coming thick and fast for the holiday season, and we are revelling in the glory of all this new lingerie! Here are two must-see new collections for Christmas ’09:

Hopeless “The Voyage” Collection

When we introduced you to Australian label Hopeless lingerie last year, we fell in love with the label’s clean, modern lines, luxurious silk, and quirky directional design. It’s been a year since that collection, but the next one was worth the wait!

It might seem strange to draw inspiration from Stephen Spielberg’s “Jaws,” but we see where Hopeless is going with “The Voyage” –the collection gives a nod to the very retro nautical look, but updates it with hidden “sharks teeth,” bold blocks of colour, and tiny little details that we love. For example, check out the back view of this Alex Silk camisole ($150, above right) – we love the peekaboo blue panel which adds an extra oomph of sex appeal to the piece.

Hopeless’s “The Voyage” is full of updated retro fun, from high-waisted knickers to bralettes to halterneck bras. It’s an incredible sophomore effort from Hopeless, and we can’t wait to see what 2010 brings from this promising label! Check out the whole collection at Etsy – and be quick! The last order date for international orders is the 10th!

Sonia Kykiel for H&M

We don’t often cover lingerie that you can’t buy online, but we’ll make an exception for fashion legend Sonia Rykiel and her H&M collaboration for a lingerie line. We were delighted to find that this collaboration didn’t produce unwearable frankenclothes like many others we’ve seen, but instead gives gorgeous designs at an accessible price.

The lingerie itself is very current, boasting a number of bralettes, a very chic simple bra and some gorgeous robes and nighties. The prices, however, are the best bit – most things cost $20 or less, and the silk pieces are just $30. There will of course be a trade-off when buying such affordable fabrics, but we think these pieces are so lovely, they are worth the risk of only lasting a few seasons! To buy the lingerie, head to your closest H&M or Sonia Rykiel boutique, and you can see photos of the full range here.

Don’t forget – last posting dates!

We are coming up to the deadline for last posting dates for online stores, so if you are planning to buy online for Christmas, make sure you do it soon! If you’re still not sure what to get, don’t forget to try our Christmas Gift Guide!