Valentine’s month usually conjures up cliched images of chocolate, roses and lingerie but the idea of what those should be, inspires much more conscious and statement-making choices these days: slabs of delicious fair-trade cocoa, regionally sourced flowers and inclusive innerwear.
Zooming in on what we used to consider our ‘delicates’, Business Insider has reported that lingerie sales have skyrocketed as the year begins and February approaches.
And I wonder, since the tide of what is considered sexy has changed so much that the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was cancelled late last year, how the items that are being sold and bought globally are reflecting this.
Inclusive Lingerie Brands
A few inclusive lingerie brands that are proudly local, include Thabooty’s Underwear and Shapewear available online, Storm in A-G Cup in Cape Town and Distraction by Bonang at Woolworths.
Nude Wear is also shoppable on their e-commerce site and of course, the trailblazing Savage X Fenty (watch their first runway show) has shaken up the market and you can order it online and they ship to South Africa.
Whether someone is gifting you or you’re treating yourself to some expensive items, you may want to consider that you don’t have to hide them from the public. Corsets and lacy bodysuits can be worn as a camisole with shorts, jeans and as part of a suit.
Inclusive Sizing
Look out for another trend that seems to be linked to inclusive sizing. According to Who What Wear, high-rise thongs and briefs (high waisted anything is flattering on any shape) and high-cut French briefs (think Jane Fonda aerobics videos) are the shapes you should be shopping.
A tricky thing to get right for yourself nevermind a partner, shopping sensual, comfortable undergarments that fit well, will feel like a coup but it’s worth the effort.
After all what is romance about if not thoughtfulness and attention to detail?
There’s nothing sexier.
Words by Zanele Kumalo
