What lies beneath

Over the years, lingerie has evolved from being an occasional purchase to a vital closet foundation. Lingerie’s definitive attributes have also progressed and, nowadays, how we feel in our undergarments is as vital as how they look. Which is why wearing underwear as outerwear has become a key trend and aspiration for modern lingerie and loungewear labels.

Blurring the lines between ready-to-wear and underwear are London-born labels Les Girls Les Boys and Olivia von Halle. For her eponymous line of luxe pajamas, von Halle dreams up playful designs and prints them across chic and elegant silhouettes. The fact that she was inspired by the ‘lounging pajamas’ that Coco Chanel wore in the 1920s will go some way to explaining why her nightwear is so sophisticated. Launched in 2011 at London Fashion Week, her sleek cuts and irreverent prints – such as an azure zebra-print number – became instant hits with discerning fashion editors. So much so, in fact, that they are often considered too good not to wear outside of the bedroom too. Try the pyjama tops with jeans by day, or wear tailored pants with a silk cami top and strappy sandals to your next evening soirée.

Meanwhile, Les Girls Les Boys was set up in 2017 by lingerie aficionado Serena Rees, who co-founded Agent Provocateur. This time around, Rees identified a niche in the underwear market for an intimates label with a streetwear-inflected esthetic. Led by a philosophy that seeks to “empower rather than define”, the brand offers loungewear and underwear that is as comfortable as it is cool. An elegant, emerald-hued matching bra-and-briefs set for example, cut from sheer stretch-mesh, feels ultra-soft and light against the skin and is cast in a flattering high-rise shape. For the perfect loungewear look, wear the set beneath high-waisted ‘mom’ jeans and a loose silk blouse.

Another label that has long been revered for its multipurpose undergarments is cult Austrian brand Wolford. Since 1949, Wolford has been the go-to label for minimalistic, high-quality basics. Whether worn as underpinnings or as sleek ready-to-wear separates, these easy-to-wear pieces are a no-brainer for busy women who need clothes they can reach for in the morning that look good and feel amazing. Plus, their versatility means they are perfect for those who travel often and like to pack light. The thong bodysuits come in many different styles – from turtlenecks to crew necks – and are made using the label's signature knitting technique to ensure a flawlessly smooth fit that means they are virtually undetectable under your clothes. Wear them alone under fitted midi skirts or high-waisted pants, or layered beneath a chunky knit.

For something with a romantic touch, look to New York-born brand Journelle and the Miami-based, Italian-made Cosabella. Journelle understands the importance of form and function, describing itself as a label founded “by women for women”. Named after the French word ‘journellement’ which means ‘daily’, the brand ethos is to empower women from the very start of their day, when they put on a piece of lingerie to boost their confidence and beauty. This French spirt extends to its design philosophy too – we love the classic floral lace Isabel balconette bra, and the sensual Natalia bodysuit with its graphic lace stars, plunging V décolletage and pretty silk bow at the nape of the neck.

As for Cosabella, this translates as ‘beautiful thing’ from Italian, and the family-run lingerie line is truly a thing of beauty. Established in 1983, it is renowned for making ultra-feminine designs from exceptionally comfortable, seamless lace. Whatever lingerie style you choose, just be sure it makes you feel as good as it looks.