2012 AW Lingerie Observations

My trip to New York for the Curve expo was fabulous. Still sad it’s over, but at least I get to share all of my observations from the show with all of you and reminisce. My first day started with catching the M42 off of First Avenue. I walked into the Jacob Javitz Convention Center, and when I got there all I could see were isles of exhibitors showing off their fall AW lingerie collections. One thing was evident; the designers seemed to have shared common colors, patterns and cuts, for the fall, each putting their unique spin on it. Below are my observations simplified and broken down for you.

A Retro Must

High-waisted panties have literally entered every brand. Before you think low rise is the only way to go, you should really reconsider. It’s a flattering silhouette for all figures, especially curvy ones. Why? Because it draws attention to the smallest part of your waist and you’ll instantly look thinner. Reading the trends forum from Paris, one of the trend directions was called,” Secret D’Inities” which means, “Secret for Insiders”. The motivation behind this theme was that women desired to hide themselves and be secretive. The style is perfect for embracing this trend.

I Love Paris

There were several brands that were inspired by the spirit of Paris and the Eiffel tower. A few sets were even named “Saint Germain” which is a city known to capture the true essence of Paris.  Aubade had the most beautiful structured waist cincher. The print was a black with a cranberry print. The picture does it no justice! The print had these oval vintage frames and in the middle we’re little Eiffel Towers. You would have never noticed it at a glance. The ribbon lace up was said to also be the Eiffel Tower structure, upside down. The piece was a work of art and I was completely inspired.

Shapers Equal Sexy

The shapewear niche is continuing to grow and every brand wants a piece of it. The goal? To give these pieces a feminine, sexier face-lift. YES! Valery won the best shaper award in my opinion. The silhouette was stunning, the accents of lace where perfectly placed, and most importantly, I wouldn’t mind admiring myself in it, or letting my boyfriend see it on me for that matter. A major plus! Although not pictured below, look for their “Fucco” baby doll and mini skirt come Fall. Two years from now, we’re going to notice a dramatic visual progression in shapewear. I love it.

Prints With Edge

A few prints jumped out at me. A few brands like Jenna Leigh, Eberjey, and Huit we’re inspired by Missoni. Hounds tooth and polka dots made an appearance on bras as well as hosiery. Leopard and snakeskin definitely came out to play. There were zig zags, and my favorite – art deco. A brand who always get’s prints right, Pleasure State. My jaw literally dropped and I’m hard to please when it comes to prints! I couldn’t get enough.

It Don’t Mean a Thing, if it Ain’t got that Bling!

Bras, panties and chemises were embellished with Swarovski crystals, shimmering beads, and metallic embroidery. If it didn’t shine, it wasn’t a part of the cool crowd. Glamour is at an all time high, and bedazzling your lady bits is oh so luxurious.

All in One Piece

Body suits, teddies, and rompers were a common piece in every line as well. You have an array of fabric choices to choose from. There were several fabric choices to choose form this season depending on your mood and occasion. Modal for casually relaxing at home, sheer silks and lace for a little seduction, or a gorgeous combo like the one below, for a bit a romance by Amulette. Each rendition making you ponder, how you could manipulate it into outerwear and show it off for all to see!

Gems and Stones

Fall always delivers rich, decadent colors. Shades of sapphire, rubies, emerald, and amethyst, made bold statements. The neutrals of choice were shades of gray, champagne, and silver. If bold isn’t your color of choice, stepping deeper into the winter season, greens, purples will soften into subtle frosty hues and warm dusty rose will emerge. There’s a shade for everyone.

Long Line Bras

Last year it seemed as though long line bras were only featured in a couple brands. Now, they’re everywhere. For those who are just being introduced to this bra style, a long line bra is a couple inches longer in length than a regular bra. Much shorter than a bustier, however, it gives a bustier type feel. I love, love, love it and hope the style remains. Another fun lingerie item that can be manipulated as outerwear!