Beyond the Bedroom

I never understood lingerie (why spend so much money on something nobody sees?) until I started handling the market for our magazine. Now that tons of gifted bras, panties and chemises are coming my way (yes, the perks are amazing!), I've fallen in love with the soft lacy necklines, luxurious satin pajamas and 40's pin-up style corsets, dripping with sensuality.

Every woman loves to feel sexy---that's no surprise---but this season brings an edgy, fashion-forward feel to lingerie...and oh, one other major difference. You wear it outside the bedroom.

Are you still with me? Good.

Bows. Lace. Silk. Sheer. All boudoir staples that can be found in the collections of your favorite designers---in the most unconventional of ways.


Sheer Bliss





From top left: Alexander Wang. Dior. Derercuny. Alberta Ferretti. Malandrino. Just Cavalli.


The translucent fabrics that were airy and wispy last year have given way to revealing patterns and curve-hugging silhouettes, that leave little to the imagination. Work them into your day wardrobe with a feminine blouse (like Derercuny's printed top) and then slide into a slinky, sheer dress (worn over a slip) come nightfall.


Silk Road

Both by Dolce & Gabbana.

Dolce & Gabbana says life is a pajama party with silk menswear-inspired pj's, elegant and sophisticated enough to be worn out on the town. If the thought of strolling around in your nightclothes is unnerving, you can opt for a more subdued version of the trend. Silk blouses paired with structured pieces, like pencil skirts, will strike the perfect balance between night and day.

Kate Beckinsdale nails the pajama look in a sexy, satin YSL wrap dress at the Heroes/CNN tribute.

Amazing Lace

From top left: Jean Paul Gaultier. John Galliano. Just Cavalli. Marchesa. Rachel Roy. Tracy Reese.

There's no fabric as romantic and charmingly feminine as lace. John Galliano's stunning blue gown aside, lace noir is Fashion's edgy answer to the dainty white, muted lace of seasons past. It lends itself to dark romance---dramatic, erotic, vampy and bold.

Here are three ways to tone down the va-va-voom appeal for day: (1) Layer the lace so it becomes less transparent and gives more coverage. (2) Pair with structured suiting or denim. (3) Choose full, ladylike silhouettes, like Tracy Reese's halter dress. For night, throw caution to the wind and go dangerously sexy like Gwyneth (blazer is optional).









Take A Bow




From top left: Marchesa. Christian Dior. Elie Saab. Lanvin. Marc Jacobs. Temperley London.


Oversized bust bows are my new obsession in life. They're playful and coquettish in the most modern, fashionable way. The perfect accent to a beautiful dress like Marchesa's frill-seeking number, worn by glamazon, Eva Longoria, to the Emmy's.





Bustier Beauties

From top left: Alexis Mabille. Carolina Herrera. Christian Dior. Dolce & Gabbana. House of Holland. Berardi.

Bustiers provide a classic, vixen silhouette, lifting and cinching in all the right places. This season gives you two looks to choose from: the seductive top coupled with a voluminous skirt for a look that's high in contrast or a minimalist study in sleek, like Berardi's fitted dress. I love the look of a bustier under a blazer with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt, it screams sexy sophisticate.

What do you think about the new lingerie-for-day? For one thing, it certainly takes care of the problem of no one seeing my expensive innerwear. With these refined, revealing looks, you're sure to be the center of attention.

Kisses,


Coutura

Photos: Style.com.