Designers are having fun with animal prints, pinstripes, polka dots and glamorous retro styles this year. Deep, jewel tone colors are also "in," and look elegant -- especially if a bra and panty set is made from smooth satins and luxurious lace details. But perhaps the most exciting new trend is the development of innovative, technologically advanced fabrics. Using the latest technologies, some designers have created 'high-tech' bras, which offer many useful features and unexpected benefits.
Jewel Tone Colors
Image © Marie Jo L’Aventure
Amethyst, ruby, sapphire, emerald...gorgeous gemstone colors are one of the most beautiful trends for Fall 2011 and Winter 2012.
Is this trend right for you?
Jewel-tone colors flatter a wide range of skin tones. Plus, you'll feel so fancy -- no matter what you're wearing over your undies. So skip the basic white or heather gray cotton bra and dare to wear lingerie in bold, regal colors.
Animal Prints
Photo courtesy of Lavit Lingerie
It seems like bold animal prints are on everything this winter, including leggings, dresses, gloves, shoes, and handbags. And lingerie designers have caught jungle fever as well. Check out the brands that are featuring zebra stripes and leopard spots, and using the bold prints on everything from bras and thongs to slips.
This trend may be more widespread in Fall 2011 and Winter 2012 -- but some brands consider animal prints a classic style that's never "out".
Retro Influences
Photo courtesy of What Katie Did / Photographer Tom Nylons
Retro-inspired lingerie styles seem to fall "in" and "out" of fashion, but the trend is back this year in a big way. Rather than incorporate small touches of vintage details, many lingerie designers are fully embracing retro inspirations.
Hollywood is helping to fuel the buzz. In the movie Marilyn & Me, Oscar-nominee Michelle Williams wears a few vintage lingerie styles, like this bustier by What Katie Did, shown at left.
If you're not into wearing lingerie that may make you feel like a pin-up girl, try certain elements of the trend without completely embracing it. Many designers chose to re-invent a few retro details, and you can find them mixed with modern influences. For instance, try a high-waist brief or a long-line bra, in shapes that are slightly more modern. But if you adore the "Marilyn look," look for the brands that always feature true-to-form retro styles.
Stripes & Polka Dots
Photo courtesy of Blush Lingerie
Many lingerie designers were influenced by striking patterns this season, including retro polka dots and menswear-inspired stripes. This gray set shown at left, by Blush Lingerie, features white pinstripes and pink lace inserts that add a feminine touch.
High-Tech Bras
Photo Courtesy of Intelliskin
New fabric technologies are available -- and some lingerie designers are taking advantage. There are new bras that can moisturize your skin, keep you cool, and even help improve your posture.
Intrigued? Stay tuned -- much more will be reported soon about the brands that are changing the lingerie world by launching these new designs.
