Posts Tagged ‘sexy underwear’

The Art and Illusion of Corsetry

Sunday, May 25th, 2008

Corsetry is the art of making corsets, as well as the corsets themselves; and there are few things that make a woman feel as gorgeous as wearing one of these shape-enhancing garments. While they used to be a terribly constricting part of daily female fashion, corsets are now more of a special-occasion or even a novelty item that is worn as sexy underwear. With its ability to cinch in the waist while lifting the bust, adding corsetry to your wardrobe can be a way to get a lovely hourglass shape.

Corsetry has been around for hundreds of years, but it generally fell out of fashion in the Western world during the 1920s when corsets were replaced by girdles. Since that time, corsets have been used less as underwear and more as costumes, lingerie, and even outerwear.

Just as the purpose of corsetry has changed over the years, so too has the construction. They were originally made from thick material such as leather that had channels to hold “stays.” Stays were made from rigid material such as whalebone or steel. Today’s corsets are usually not as rigid and may be made from softer fabrics. Stays are typically made of plastic, although it is still possible to find some made from steel.

Most corsets wrap around the upper body with either the front or back left open. The opening is lined with eyelets or grommets along both sides, and these are used to lace the corset together. As the lace is tightened, the corset constricts the body and holds it in place. Throughout history, corsets have been worn so tight as to cause women to faint or even to develop permanent deformities. It is thought, however, that some of the drawbacks to corsetry have been overly dramatized and that wearing them is not as uncomfortable as has been portrayed in literature and movies.

The point was simply to modify the body’s shape by a small amount in order to reach an idealized silhouette. There are still people referred to as “tightlacers” who use corsets to constrict the size of their natural waists to be less than 20 inches in circumference. These people are quite rare, however, and most use corsets as sexy underwear for the boudoir. They are also quite popular in BDSM practices, both for their restriction and just for aesthetics.

Corsetry comes in a number of styles, but the two main categories are the overbust and underbust. These names mean just what they imply. An overbust corset starts just below the armpits, while an underbust corset begins below the bust line. Both types are likely to push up the bust to create a fuller look with more cleavage.

Modern corsetry is much more forgiving than its forerunners, and it is used everywhere from the bedroom to the dance floor. Many wedding dress designers have incorporated corsets into their fashions, and other dress designers have followed suit. It is not uncommon to see laced-up dresses at the high school prom. They are also very popular in certain subcultures such as “Gothic” and for those involved in reenactments and renaissance fairs.

Feel Confident with Sheer Lingerie

Friday, May 16th, 2008

Sexy, sheer lingerie can be as complex as a bustier-waspie combination with thigh high stockings and kitten heels or as simple as a matching lingerie set of a brassiere and underwear. Although most men and women focus on the concept of lingerie as the more complex variety, the simplest kinds are often the ones that make women feel the best. Because sheer lingerie and exotic lingerie sets can (and often are) worn under clothes, they inspire that bedroom feeling from the moment you get dressed in the morning until you finally get undressed at night.

Many of today’s wardrobe choices require very specific brassieres: ones that cross in the back, convert to a halter top, or have the option of going strapless. This same phenomenon is apparent in undergarment choices as well, since you may have to avoid panty lines by wearing a thong or nip in your waist with a durable waspie. While these types of undergarments are fine for occasional use, you should also consider wearing clothes that allow for more freedom underneath. When you don’t have to worry about the type of bra and panties you have on, you can boost your confidence and feel your best by wearing something sheer, something bejeweled, or something that is pure sex.

Matching lingerie sets are perfect for this kind of situation. Wearing sheer lingerie that comes in a pair – meaning brassieres and panties or brassieres and flirty skirts – is a great way to take your boudoir with you wherever you go. For example, the next time you wear a knee-length khaki skirt and button-down blouse, consider opting for a deep red underwire bra and sheer lingerie skirt set with detachable garter belt to go underneath. The garter can be used to hold up a sheer hosiery set, the bra can replace your everyday support, and your skirt can simply appeal to your delicious femininity. No one will ever know that you’re not wearing standard pantyhose, dowdy panties, and an 18-hour support bra. That is, of course, unless you want them to.

By taking your exotic lingerie with you wherever you go, you are essentially turning your everyday activities into vamped-up, prolonged foreplay. You can keep this secret to yourself and enjoy the heightened sensations, or you can inform your loved one of exactly what will be going on beneath your clothes all day long. Rare is the man who can put this kind of image out of his mind for very long. Whether you are getting ready for a day at the office or primping for a date you won’t soon forget, sheer lingerie worn in place of your standard undergarments will provide you with all the tools you need to become a confident, sexy seductress.

Baby Doll Lingerie: Cute and Sexy

Friday, May 16th, 2008

Baby doll lingerie is some of the most fun stuff on the market. The adorable fashions can range from cute and sweet to totally outrageous. It simply boils down to your style. The main feature of baby doll lingerie is its short length.

Generally, baby doll lingerie consists of some sort of very short dress, and there is often a set of matching panties or a thong. Lace baby doll lingerie is often see-through, which can add to the excitement. Stretchy lace can form fit to the body to create a super-sexy silhouette. This can be enhanced by adding a slightly padded, or even an underwire, bra top.

For a flirtier look, try a flouncy skirt on your baby doll lingerie. While a sheer baby doll dress can be really sexy, don’t underestimate the effect of a sweet little cotton outfit. Remember that “sweet” can be just as seductive as “sexy.” Again, the choice boils down to your style, and perhaps that of your partner. The most important aspect is to have fun with you choice.

While “baby doll” describes a certain type of lingerie, there are numerous cuts, styles, and details available. For those with narrower shoulders, a halter-style baby doll dress might be just the right choice. Another woman might prefer a little outfit with cap sleeves to cover her shoulders. For a little peek-a-boo, consider a style that includes fabric cutouts strategically placed on your body. You can also choose to show a little extra skin by purchasing baby doll lingerie that ties under the bust and falls open below to expose your torso.

The details on your intimate apparel can make a difference, too. Little ribbons and bows, for example, will add a completely different feeling than jewels or sequins. Some cotton lace along the hemline creates a different effect than stretch lace around the cups. The type of fabric used to make your baby doll lingerie can also dramatically change its effect. Silk might look glamorous while chiffon has a less formal feel. The colour and pattern of the fabric can add to the effect, as well. Black, red, and animal print fabrics are rather “classic” sexy colours, while pastels and polka dots might be seen as a little more fun and flirty.

Finally, baby doll lingerie can be fashioned into some really cute little costumes. There are the well-known “nurse” and “French maid” styles, but plenty of other costumes can be found, too. As with colours, cuts, and details, lingerie costumes can make or break the mood. Be sure to pick a costume that suits your body, as well as your sense of adventure. While you may want to surprise your partner with your choice, shopping together can be a sort of foreplay of its own. Either way, baby doll lingerie can definitely add some fun and excitement to your activities.

Make a Bold Statement with Sheer Nightwear

Saturday, May 10th, 2008

Whether you choose sheer nightwear or ratty old t-shirts, what you wear to bed each night says quite a bit about who you are. This is true for all types of clothing; when women dress for they day, they are essentially getting ready to play a role. Busy mothers might put on comfortable jeans and warm sweaters. Polished businesswomen might opt for high-powered suits and sleek heels. Classroom teachers might choose modest dresses and casual flats. Why shouldn’t these same women get to continue their role-playing well into the night, catering to themselves instead of the public by simply slipping between the sheets in sheer nightwear that instantly transforms them into sex kittens?

When many women purchase silk lingerie, they do so because of an upcoming celebration or event. Honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays are some of the most popular times for choosing to throw out the flannel pyjamas and put on something smooth, silky, and sheer. However, we all know that sex isn’t just for special occasions. In fact, nothing ends a long, hard day at the office better than a glass of wine, soft music, flickering candles, and sheer nightwear – no matter who is there to appreciate it.

If you buy your lingerie piece by piece, picking up some discount lingerie here and some silk lingerie there, it could take you decades to compile the well-stocked lingerie drawer that every woman deserves. Buying lingerie this way also leads to forgetfulness; if you only break out the corsets and garters once or twice a year, you could easily forget some of the delightful treasures you purchased for your anniversaries several years ago. This does everyone a disservice, since lingerie is meant to be remembered and appreciated time and time again.

This is why more and more women are opting to include sheer nightwear as an everyday ritual. If you spend your days in jeans, running errands and picking up after the kids, putting on a cotton nightgown is only going to make your night as boring as the rest of your day. You can pull yourself out of this rut by slipping into something that makes your skin tingle and your mind wander. If you acquire enough quality pieces, you can soon throw out everything flannel, cotton, and shaped like a bag - and put the woman who wore them entirely to rest.

Sheer nightwear has a power like nothing else on the planet. Choose and assortment of silky babydolls, teddies, chemises, gowns, pyjama sets, and robes so that you have something to wear each night of the week. You’ll be amazed at the transformation in both yourself and your loved one when every night is special and something to celebrate.

Shopping for Erotic Lingerie Online

Saturday, May 10th, 2008

Erotic lingerie can be a wonderful way to heat up even the coldest of winter nights. With so many choices out there these days, there’s bound to be something to fit everyone’s style and budget, too. Whether you’re looking for something elegant and beautiful or something racy and fun, you can find it online. For those who are a little more shy, the ability to shop for erotic lingerie online has taken some of the awkwardness out of the process.

There are a few important things to keep in mind when shopping for fashion items online. First of all, you want to find something that fits. Ordering the perfect pair of panties can be a thrill, but discovering that they’re three sizes too big (or too small) is going to take a lot of the excitement out of your purchase - and the sexy evening you had planned. The safest way to ensure that you’re going to get erotic lingerie that fits is to do a good job of taking your measurements. If you feel comfortable, consider going to a dress shop or a tailor, as they’re trained to take measurements. If not, simply get a soft measuring tape and do it yourself in front of the mirror.

Once you know the proper size, it’s time to start shopping. With so many choices in intimate apparel, it can feel like a bit of a smorgasbord at first. Should you start with really exotic lingerie along the lines of a sexy costume, or should you be more conservative with your purchases? Of course, the choice is up to you. Keep in mind that you will need to feel comfortable wearing whatever erotic lingerie you have purchased. If you are more reserved and are trying to break out of that shell, then perhaps it is best to start with something that makes you feel pretty rather than something that might make you feel silly or self conscious.

The final criterion to consider in making your erotic lingerie purchase is the price. There are resources out there that can cater to every price point, so no matter what you’re willing to spend, you should find erotic lingerie that will work for you. Keep in mind, however, that you generally get what you pay for. If you are looking for something that you only plan to wear once or twice, you may be able to get by without spending very much money. On the other hand, if you want a nice piece of lingerie that you can wear for a long time to come, you should expect to pay more. In addition to not holding up as well, the less expensive lingerie is probably not going to look as nice, either.

Buying erotic lingerie online has a lot of advantages. For example, the Internet offers far more choices than you could ever find in one store. There’s also the convenience of having your purchase delivered right to your door. Online shopping also affords you privacy, which can be great if you’re a little shy about making an erotic purchase. If you follow a few guidelines regarding sizing and pricing, you should be able to find some great erotic lingerie online.

Womens Underwear: A History of the Bra

Thursday, May 1st, 2008

Today, women’s underwear choices are numerous. Matching bra and brief sets are extremely popular, offering the best in both style and function. In fact, these sets seem so basic that it is hard to believe that there was a time when they did not exist. However, modern women’s underwear styles are fairly recent inventions. Provided here is a brief guide to the history of the brassiere.

Women’s underwear today offers almost innumerable choices. Matching bra and brief sets are among the basics, combining style and function in an endlessly practical way. However, these now-classic styles of women’s underwear are fairly modern inventions. Provided here is a guide to the history of the bra.

Of the many styles of women’s underwear available today, bra and brief sets are among the most classic. However, these classic garments are actually of recent origin. Throughout most of recorded history, womens underwear styles were far different than those of today. Read on for a brief history of the bra.

Ancient Cultures

In Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, breasts were generally uncovered. Women’s underwear was basically unknown. Both men and women wore simple tunic-style garments. However, it was usual to expose the breasts, particularly in Greece, where female breasts had almost mythic significance. Greek women did, however, cover the breasts with tight, supportive bands known as apodesme when competing in athletic activities.

In Ancient Rome, breasts were less emphasized, and both men and women wore loose tunics that covered the chests. Young women sometimes wore a version of the Greek apodesmos, called the strophium, to minimize their breasts. This could be considered an early example of women’s underwear.

Medieval

Contrary to modern mythology, medieval women did not wear bodices designed to enhance the breasts. In fact, it is believed that the Holy Roman Empire specifically forbade women to support their breasts or draw attention to them. Bodices were straight and designed to minimize rather than enhance curves. Women’s underwear consisted primarily of simple shifts worn underneath a bodice and full skirt.

Renaissance

By the Renaissance era, fashions had changed. It was considered stylish and modern to show plenty of décolletage. Even breast feeding was frowned on by the upper classes, as it was believed to ruin a woman’s figure. It was during this era that early corsetry began to develop.

Renaissance style was far different than medieval style in many ways. In women’s fashion, it became stylish to show décolletage. Breast feeding was discouraged among the upper classes due to the effect that it could have on the breasts. During this time, rudimentary corsetry developed.

As the medieval period gave way to the Renaissance, fashions changed. Upper class women began to flaunt their décolletage. So important was it to maintain perky breasts that women who could do so hired wet nurses to take over breast feeding duties. During this time, corsetry was born.

The Age of Corsetry

Once corsets were introduced, they proved to have great staying power. Shapes and styles changed over the years, but the corset remained the women’s underwear choice until the late nineteenth century. Of course, there were generally more practical alternatives for women who worked, either inside or outside the home. Even these garments, however, generally resembled corsets but were less compressive.

Clothing Reform Movement

In the late 1800s, two movements began that would ultimately lead to the development of the modern bra. Early feminists recognized that freedom from restrictive women’s underwear was necessary before women could take on a larger role in society. Meanwhile, doctors began to recognize the health risks of tightlaced corsetry.

In the late 19th century, numerous patents were filed for breast-supporting corset alternatives. However, many of these designs were never manufactured. Only a handful of educated feminists and female athletes purchased the early bras.

World War I

World War I brought a lot of support for the emerging bra movement. Steel was commonly used for the stays in corsets, but was needed for the war effort. Meanwhile, women went to work in factories and industrial plants in great numbers. Societal attitudes began to change.

The 1920s to the 1960s

After the war, the bra became much more accepted. By the late 1920s, it had replaced the corset as the major staple of women’s underwear. Shapes and styles changed with fluctuating fashions, but the garment remained largely the same.

Counter Culture

The women’s liberation movement of the 1960s led record numbers of women to stop wearing bras altogether. Although bra-burning was likely much less common than urban legends would indicate, many women simply stopped wearing them.

Bra manufacturers fought back by capitalizing on the sexual liberation of the time to introduce increasingly daring alternative styles. It was during this time that women’s underwear options dramatically grew.

The 1970s to Today

Today, women’s underwear is big business. Sexy lingerie and matching lingerie sets are quite common. Whether you are in the mood for a demure and elegant bra and brief set or something a bit wilder, your options are virtually unlimited.

Women’s underwear is a vast and important business today. Matching lingerie sets and other sexy lingerie pieces are easy to find. From a demure and sophisticated set to a barely-there see-through set, your options are practically limitless.

Today, women’s underwear is manufactured in an almost dizzying array of styles and colours. Matching lingerie sets and other sexy lingerie pieces are everywhere. From demure and elegant bra and panties sets to see-through options in lace, your imagination is truly the limit.

Curious About Sheer Lingerie: Throw A Lingerie Party

Thursday, April 24th, 2008

If you would like to expand your knowledge of sheer lingerie or other lingerie items, why not gather some friends and throw a lingerie party? A lingerie party is a great way to get some girl time, whether or not you are celebrating a particular occasion. If you have never thrown one, however, you may be unsure how to get started. Provided here is a beginner’s guide to throwing a successful sheer lingerie party.

A great way to learn more about sheer lingerie and other types of lingerie is to throw a lingerie party. Perfect for special occasions, lingerie parties are also a wonderful way to get some girl time for absolutely no reason whatsoever. If you have never thrown a lingerie party, however, you may be uncertain where to begin. Provided here are some quick tips to throwing a terrific sheer lingerie party.

A lingerie party is a wonderful way to learn more about various types of lingerie, such as sheer lingerie. A lingerie party is a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, but is also a great way to get some girl time in for no good reason at all. If you have never thrown a lingerie party, however, then you may not know where to begin. Read on for some tips on throwing a successful sheer lingerie party.

Connect With a Lingerie Consultant

If you do not already have a regular lingerie consultant, it is easy to find one online. A simple search in your favourite search engine will provide a list of home party planners. Take the time to look around the website before making a commitment. You will want to know how much the consultant charges, how long the party will be, whether there is a sales minimum and whether door prizes are provided. Also look for testimonials and recommendations.

Work with your consultant to determine what types of lingerie will be highlighted. Sheer lingerie, nightwear and matching lingerie sets are just a few of the possible themes. Try to have some ideas in mind, but be open to the consultant’s expert opinions as well.

Make a Guest List

You may want to invite only your closest friends. However, many people feel that lingerie parties work the best with a bigger guest list. Just be sure that you know potential guests well enough to determine whether they would be offended by sheer lingerie or other risqué items.

Send Out Invitations

Depending on the formality of your party, you can send invitations by email or postal mail. Other ideas include handing them out in person or simply issuing invitations by telephone.

Plan Games and Prizes

Your lingerie consultant should have some ideas for appropriate party games. If she does not, then you can look online for inspiration. Just remember that party games should be fairly short, include all of your guests and offer silly, theme-appropriate prizes.

Make the Food

A party is not a party without food. However, the food need not be elaborate. If not held at a meal time, food can be as simple as chips and dip or as elaborate as finger sandwiches and hors d’oeuvres. Wine or champagne adds an elegant touch, but be sure to provide plenty of nonalcoholic beverages as well.

Don’t Forget the Music

A great party needs great music. Choose songs that will make a great background track for the bulk of the party. Also choose some great dance tracks for times when the party gets off-track or after the lingerie portion ends.

Consider Turning the Party Into a Sleepover

Although the party’s focus will be sheer lingerie or whatever theme you have selected, it is also a great time to reconnect with your girlfriends. If you have the time and space, why not pretend you’re in high school and turn the party into a sleepover? You can give each other makeovers, watch chick flicks or horror movies, finish the wine and model your new sheer lingerie.

Sheer lingerie or another type of lingerie provides a theme for your party. However, there is no reason for the party to stop when the lingerie consultant goes home. Why not continue the party throughout the night by turning it into a sleepover? Give your friends makeovers, watch horror movies or cry at chick flicks, finish the wine and show off your new sheer lingerie.

The sheer lingerie or other lingerie style will form the backbone of your party. However, the party is also a great way to reconnect with your friends. Why not continue the excitement by turning your party into a sleepover? You and your friends can pretend you’re back in high school by giving each other makeovers and scaring yourselves silly with horror movies. Finish off the bottle of wine and show off your new sheer lingerie.

A lingerie party is a wonderful way to bring some excitement to a dull weekend. Work with a professional lingerie consultant to choose a theme and make the party a success. Common themes include sheer lingerie, exotic lingerie and nightwear, but the sky is truly the limit. Use your imagination to create a lingerie party to remember.

Why not bring some excitement to a dull weekend with a hot lingerie party? A professional lingerie consultant can help you work out the details and create a truly successful bash. Common themes include exotic lingerie, sheer lingerie and nightwear, but do not limit your options. Instead, use your imagination to create a night to remember.

What better way to bring some excitement on a boring weekend than to throw a lingerie party. Common themes include nightwear, sheer lingerie and exotic lingerie. Working with a professional lingerie consultant can help you manage the details and pull off a successful bash. Use your imagination to design a night your friends will never forget.

A Brief History Of Sexy Teddies And Bodysuits

Thursday, April 24th, 2008

Sexy teddies and bodysuits are extremely popular items of sexy lingerie today. However, these items developed only in the 20th century, largely as an outgrowth of the flapper movement of the 1920s. Provided here is a guide to the short but interesting history of sexy teddies and bodysuits.

Sexy teddies and bodysuits are so much a part of our sexy lingerie today that it is hard to remember how recently they developed. Primarily an outgrowth of the 1920s flapper movement, these garments have a short but very interesting history. Provided here is a beginner’s guide to sexy teddies and bodysuits.

Sexy teddies and bodysuits may be quite popular today, but only recently they were considered new and shocking. Symbols of the sexual liberation of the 1920s flapper movement, sexy teddies and bodysuits have a short but interesting history. Provided here is a beginner’s guide to these sexy lingerie pieces.

What Are Sexy Teddies and Bodysuits?

Teddies are one-piece garments that combine a camisole top with attached panties. Bodysuits are generally stretchy one-piece items that resemble leotards or one-piece swimsuits. While teddies generally feature short sleeves or straps and short panties, bodysuits offer more choices in style. Some bodysuits are long-sleeved and/or ankle-length, while others feature straps or sleeveless styles and high-cut legs.

Early 20th Century

Teddies originated in the early 20th century. At that time, bloomers were in fashion, particularly among young, athletic women. Corsets were going out of style in response to increasing concerns about health risks. Early teddies were generally made of soft cotton and featured a loosely fitted camisole top with thigh-length baggy shorts. The wide-legged design of the shorts made the teddy resemble a dress, not unlike later culottes. Sexy teddies had not yet been invented, although when compared to other styles of the era, the teddy could be considered somewhat sexy in design.

In the early 20th century, bloomers were in style, especially among athletic young women. Corsets were on their way out, due to increasing concerns about health risks. Teddies offered a soft alternative to corsetry, while providing the coverage enjoyed by young athletes. Teddies provided a soft cotton camisole top with attached thigh-length baggy shorts. The shorts resembled later culottes and gave the teddy a dress-like appearance. Though sexy teddies had not been invented, in comparison with other styles, teddies were somewhat sexy in nature.

The early 20th century was a time of major fashion changes. Athletic young women began wearing bloomers, and corsets went out of style due to health risks. The teddy was a soft cotton one-piece alternative. A camisole top with baggy thigh-length shorts (similar to later culottes), the teddy had an almost dress-like appearance. Sexy teddies had not been invented, but when compared to other styles of the day, the teddy seemed rather sexy in design.

Flapper Era

The flapper era ushered in the age of lingerie. Sexy teddies were one of the earliest forms of sexy lingerie. Sensual materials began to be used, particularly silk and lace. Though teddies remained loose and dress-like, straps became narrower, hemlines crept upward and the garments became more tailored. Focus was given to the look of sexy teddies, as well as comfort.

The 1930s to 1980s

As fashion moved in new directions, sexy teddies fell out of favour. Although some women continued to wear them, teddies would not be resurrected in popular culture until the 1980s.

The 1980s

Following the sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, the 1980s brought a more relaxed culture in which underwear was openly sexualized and heavily advertised. From Michael J. Fox’s bright purple briefs in Back to the Future to Madonna’s underwear-as-outerwear fetish culture, celebrities brought sexy underwear to the forefront.

Sexy teddies came back into style. Unlike the dress-like silhouettes of their predecessors, however, modern teddies were shorter, tighter and unapologetically sexual in nature. New materials such as Lycra and spandex offered a form fit that was not possible only a few years before.

Simultaneously, the 1980s brought a new interest in exercise and healthy living. The aerobics culture, combined with the possibilities of spandex, gave birth to a new garment – the bodysuit. At that time, bodysuits were primarily outerwear garments. First worn strictly for sports, then later redesigned for use as shirts, bodysuits worked well with the tightly tucked-in look that was then in vogue.

The 1990s to Present

As exercise culture gave way to grunge culture, bodysuits fell out of fashion as outwear items. However, their similarity in design to sexy teddies made it natural that the two would merge. Today, sexy teddies and bodysuits are nearly indistinguishable. Both items are available in a range of styles from demure to outright sexual. Long sleeved, short sleeved or strapless, with or without legs, these items are flexible, functional and highly sexy.

In the 1990s, grunge culture replaced exercise culture and bodysuits went out of style. However, their natural similarity to sexy teddies brought the bodysuit into the world of lingerie. Today, sexy teddies and bodysuits have become a single category of sexy lingerie. From demure to outright sexual, with or without leg pieces, with or without sleeves, today’s sexy teddies and bodysuits are flexible, functional and always sexy.

The grunge culture of the 1990s replaced the exercise culture of the 1980s and bodysuits fell out of style. However, they would resurface as lingerie items, the natural cousins of sexy teddies. Today, the two styles are nearly interchangeable. With or without legs or sleeves, in styles from demure to sexual, sexy teddies and bodysuits are flexible, functional and above all sexy.

A Brief History Of Chemises

Wednesday, April 16th, 2008

Today’s chemises are soft and luxurious, whether worn as undergarments, nightwear or even outerwear. Like many of today’s hot lingerie items, however, chemises have a long and much more practical history. Provided here is a brief history of chemises through the ages.

The chemises of today are hot lingerie items. Soft and luxurious, they can be worn as nightwear, undergarments or even outerwear. Like many of today’s naughty lingerie pieces, chemises were once practical, functional pieces. Provided here is a guide to chemises through the centuries.

Today, chemises are concerned naughty lingerie items. They are soft and luxurious, and can be worn as outerwear, underwear or sleepwear. Like many of the hot lingerie pieces of today, chemises have a long history as functional, practical undergarments. Provided here is a brief guide to the history of chemises.

Ancient Cultures

In Ancient Greece and Rome, tunic-style garments were worn by both men and women. These simple gowns are believed to be the prototypes of modern chemises. However, the garments were worn alone, therefore functioning as outerwear.

Middle Ages

The medieval period marked the true beginning of chemises’ use as undergarments. At that time, chemises were unisex garments. Women wore them long, underneath skirts and bodices or full-length gowns. Men wore them as somewhat shorter undershirts, paired with braies (a form of leggings) and covered by doublets, robes or other garments.

At that time and for many centuries to follow, chemises served an extremely practical purpose. The chemise was one of the earliest incarnations of underwear. It protected expensive outer garments from sweat and bodily oils. In those days, the chemise was the only piece of clothing that was regularly washed.

Evolution of the Chemise

Chemises remained an important and practical undergarment until the early 20th century. As fashions changed, so did the chemise. Women’s styles evolved into the camisole (once used to cover the corset) and full slip. Men’s chemises gradually became shorter and more fitted, eventually becoming the undershirt of today.

Homemade Chemises

Throughout much of the history of the chemise, women made these garments at home. A reasonably talented home seamstress could create a chemise out of a single piece of cloth, lessening waste. Working class people of both genders generally wore rough, simple chemises in linen or other common fabric. Wealthier aristocrats enjoyed supple, voluminous chemises in luxurious fabrics such as silk.

Traditionally, chemises were made at home. Home seamstresses learned to make a chemise out of a single piece of fabric in order to minimize waste. Working class chemises were simple and rough, generally made of linen or other common fabrics. Wealthier people wore more luxurious chemises in fabrics such as silk.

Chemises were traditionally made at home. A home seamstress could create each chemise from a single piece of cloth, which lessened waste dramatically. Working class people of both genders wore simple, rough chemises that were generally made of linen or other common fabrics. Wealthier people enjoyed supple chemises made from silk or other luxurious fabrics.

Chemises Today

Today’s chemises are luxury items, crafted of rich materials such as silk and designed to enhance sex appeal. Some chemises retain practical value, offering a sleek, clean line under thinner dresses and blouses. Others are designed strictly as nightwear or naughty lingerie, offering such daring options as lace and fishnet.

Today, there is little difference between chemises and camisoles, and many people use the two terms interchangeably. Chemises may also resemble negligees, particularly the babydoll style. Chemises historically provided sleeves, although many of today’s more risqué styles are sleeveless.

Fitting chemises is extremely easy, making them popular gift items. A chemise is designed for a loose and flowing fit, as opposed to the precise measurements that are required for pieces such as corsets. Chemises are generally sized according to dress size, although some are marketed as “one size fits all.”

Chemises have undergone many changes since their debut in Ancient Rome, but the basic structure of the garment remains the same. A comfortable, thin piece that can be worn as naughty lingerie, underwear or sleepwear, the chemise of today is a luxurious and multifunctional addition to any woman’s wardrobe.

Chemises can be traced to Ancient Rome, although they have undergone many changes since that time. The chemises of today are luxurious and multifunctional. Today’s chemises are thin, comfortable and appropriate for sleepwear, naughty lingerie or simple underwear, offering a range of uses for any woman.

Chemises have enjoyed a long, rich history since their first appearance in Ancient Rome. Today’s chemises are thin, comfortable and multifunctional. From naughty lingerie to underwear to sleepwear, chemises are versatile additions to any woman’s collection.

Sexy Panties Through The Ages

Sunday, April 13th, 2008

Today, sexy panties are considered a basic staple of most women’s wardrobes. From sexy thongs and g-strings to bikinis, women’s underwear today offers many choices. However, this was not always the case. Provided here is a brief guide to sexy panties through the ages.

Sexy panties are a basic item in most women’s wardrobes today. Whether your taste runs to bikinis, thongs and g-strings or even boy shorts, you have numerous options from which to choose. However, many women do not realize that panties are a relatively recent invention. Offered here is a guide to sexy panties throughout history.

Today, sexy panties range from bikinis to boy shorts to thongs and g-strings. Most women own a collection of sexy panties as a part of their basic wardrobes. However, today’s panties are a relatively modern invention. Provided here is a guide to sexy panties through the ages.

Loincloths

The loincloth is believed to have been the earliest form of clothing. In warmer climates, the loincloth was often worn as the only garment. In colder temperatures, however, the loincloth was generally worn as a protective under layer beneath heavier clothing. Both men and women wore loincloths, and the sole purpose is believed to have been comfort and protection, not sex appeal. Sexy panties had not yet been conceived.

Medieval

In the Middle Ages, both men and women wore a type of leggings known as braies. Again, the purpose was functional, not sexual. Chastity belts are often associated with the Crusades, but this appears to be largely a mythological connection. Chastity belts appeared during the Renaissance, but were often worn by women trying to guard against sexual assault rather than those with jealous husbands.

The Age of Corsetry

During the Renaissance, the straight, boyish look of the medieval period gave way to styles that enhanced the woman’s figure. During this time, women wore layers of clothing, but underpants were generally not part of the ensemble. Pantaloons or pantalettes, long underwear made of white linen, became popular during the late 19th century to protect against chafing under crinolines and provide modesty with shorter skirts. Although pantaloons were not designed to be sexy panties, some sex appeal was inherent.

The bustle was briefly popular during the 1880s. Designed to exaggerate the size and shape of the buttocks, the bustle was an early example of sexy panties’ use in enhancing the body. However, the bustle itself, consisting of a padded frame, was anything but sexy.

Bloomers

Available in both underwear and outerwear designs, bloomers were popularised by athletic women in the early 20th century. Bloomers appear to have been a natural evolution of the earlier pantaloons, providing a billowy look and fastening just below the knee. Bloomers provided modesty and feminism to girls when bicycling, playing tennis or pursuing other sports.

In many ways, bloomers could be considered the precursor to modern sexy panties. Popularised by young athletic women in the early 1900s, bloomers were available in both underwear and outerwear versions. They generally fastened just below the knee and were an evolution of earlier pantaloons.

Modern sexy panties might not exist had bloomers never been invented. Popularised in the early 20th century by athletic young women, bloomers evolved from the earlier pantaloons. Billowy and fastened just below the knee, bloomers provided modesty to women who took up active pursuits.

The 1920s

The 1920s ushered in the age of the flapper. Flappers were outspoken and liberal, and bucked societal norms. The modern age of lingerie