It's What's Underneath - err, Inside - That Counts

Ladies, we don’t think twice about dropping some hard-earned cash on a gorgeous pair of pumps (helloooo Stuart Weitzman Nexpump Platform Peep-toe!!). Spending on a killer outfit for a special occasion? No hesitation there, either (instantly wow anyone in BCBG’s Cream Patch Detail Cocktail Dress).

But truthfully, we have all been neglecting a very important element of our wardrobe. Maybe it’s due to the recent bombardment of images of celebrities going commando, or perhaps we are unconsciously trying to show off the time and money (not to mention pain!) spent on Brazilian bikini waxes. Whatever the case may be, it is a fact: Sometimes less is NOT more! Just like maintaining well-manicured nails and polished toes, a lingerie collection is essential to the disposition of the modern woman.

Thankfully, lingerie has come a long way—from the once painfully restrictive corsets, to today’s beautiful and comfortable offerings in lace, mesh, pointelle, and silk, the tremendous selection available demands that we take advantage of being a female. True, it’s nice to add some spice and wear something sexy for your man (should he be so lucky), but these days it’s just as important to don the ultimate in lacey luxury if, for no other reason, than to remind yourself of the goddess you are. That said, let’s get the basics out of the way first; replace your boring old bra with Naturana’s Molded Underwire Bra. The perfect bra under anything, and yet still, it stays sexy with lace detail and soft, molded cups while it sits under your favorite sweater or t-shirt without so much as a seam showing through or a strap falling out of place. GAP also gets it right with their Favorite T-shirt Bra, only it comes in an adorable flirty floral print that sets it apart from all the beiges and the creams overflowing out of your top drawer. Down Time Cool Stretch Wire Free Bra from Bali is as innovative as it is sleek. The super- supple cotton blend fabric and a new pillow-soft hook and eye closure are not the only impressive features; heat-transfer label minimizes tag chafe and the cool stretch spacer lining allows for breath-ability and a smoother outer appearance.

Now, let your outer wardrobe (you know, the one everyone actually sees you wearing...) take a backseat while you pay some attention to your backseat: boy-shorts and cheeky briefs have never been more in; Dolce & Gabbana never misses the mark, and their Low-Rise Hipster is no exception. Silky floral print keeps your behind where it feels most comfortable—ahead of the trends and fashion-forward, of course. And there’s nothing boyish about Simone Perele’s Katarina Boy Short. An ultra-low cut and delicate, sheer mesh minimize panty lines and make for an easy-to-keep secret under clothes. But such a sexy piece deserves to be shown off! Flaunt fabulous, intricate floral embroidery around the house under a sheer camisole, like Cami Intimate Sheer Mesh Chemise from Newport News. Similarly, Chantelle’s Africa Shorty Hipster is an alluring twist on the so-called “boy”-short as well; beautiful embroidery has a tattoo effect on the skin, while the super low-rise and extremely thin waist band makes it feel like nothing comes between you and your favorite pair of jeans.

We love you, Calvin Klein, but these days it’s Justin Timberlake we want close to our sexy skivvies. At least clothing designs can be, thanks to his new line, William Rast. He has introduced some of the best-fitting premium denim out there, and paired with some of that sultry lace underneath, you will surely be bringing sexy back. Keep it sexy and simple with GAP’s Embroidered Ruffled Thong in pink or navy. It’s too cute to resist. The Cami Intimate Lace Tanga Panty from Spiegal is the perfect balance between a thong and a bikini. Inspired by the Brazilian tanga (and less painful than that other Brazilian influence we are slaves to), it sits low and has just the right amount of coverage. Cosabella has been a lingerie staple for a long time now, and their Belle Low Rise Bikini is evidence of how they have maintained longevity in this market. For something less complicated, Cosabella makes the tiniest little Soire Mesh G-String that is literally invisible under anything.

So, even when it isn’t diamonds, good things really do come in small packages….great things, actually.