Silk underwear can come in the form of pure woven, satin or knitted silk and is most often used in camisole tops, camiosole knickers and silk panties and thongs.

You can also get G-strings and full briefs in silk, so there really is a silk option for all occasions and moods. Silk can also be made into thermal vests, both long and short sleeved, and long johns and long briefs. Silk boxers are popular amongst some men, although they do not provide the support that other underwear can.

Many brands produce silk underwear. Figleaves sell satin ruffle briefs and balcony bras from MC Lounge as well as glamorous boudoirs.

La Sensa also do several items in silk, such as the Sophia silk bras and Mimi silk knickers.

Lady Gaga Loves Silk Underwear

Silk underwear is also popular amongst some celebrities, most notably Lady Gaga who says that she just adores the feel of silk on her body.

In fact, according to MTV she actually has a silk knickers fetish and has spent £7000 on her silk underwear collection!

She had her wardrobe department throw out all her old cotton, polyester and Lycra underwear recently so that there is only the finest hand made silk left to choose from!

Brazilian Fashion Underwear

Brazilian women are generally slightly more pear shaped than British or American women, and their underwear is designed to exploit this trend. Generally the knickers are designed to show off the buttocks, without being too revealing.

Brazilian Style bras

In Brazil bras are smaller than the standard British or American sizes to accommodate the slightly smaller than average breast size in Brazil. Some Brazilian bras give more lift to the breasts, and some are very petit, almost like a small Brazilian beach bikini.

The Brazilian Cut

Many Brazilian knickers and thongs have the “Brazilian Cut” which is a low and straight cut across the top of the buttocks, which shows off the buttocks. They also ride up a little to show to lower buttocks too and really help to give good shape to the backside.

What do the thousands of images of bras and panties on perfectly sculpted bodies that we see spread across billboards and magazines say about our society?

Many women indulge in lingerie to please men. Yet, since Antiquity, women have always kept lingerie hidden away under outer garments. Thus, lingerie must be more than erotic bait.
Authors Muriel Barbier and Shazia Boucher have researched iconography to explore the relationship of lingerie to society, the economy and the corridors of intimacy. They correlate lingerie with emancipation, querying whether it asserts newfound freedoms or simply adjusts to conform to changing social values.

The result is a rigorous scientific rationale spiced with a zestly humour. And the tinier lingerie gets, the more scholarly attention the authors believe it deserves.

About the authors: Muriel Barbier and Shazia Boucher

Muriel Barbier is a talented postgraduate student at the Ecole du Louvre where she now teaches 17th to 19th century decorative arts. She is also a lecturer at the Fashion and Textile Museum and other UCAD museums and Curating Assistant at the Galliera Museum.
Shazia Boucher is Curator at the Musée de la Dentelle in Calais, and often contributes to exhibitions on fashion, lingerie, and lace.

Synopsis

Authors Muriel Barbier and Shazia Boucher have researched iconography to explore the relationship of lingerie to society, the economy and the corridors of intimacy.

Buy The Story of Lingerie

Oval or round, made with tremendous patience and skilled tablecloths reached tables of kings, aristocrats, bishops and all those with abundant amounts of money to spend and a desire to live surrounded with splendor and beauty. Koniakow lace decorates tables in Vatican, Buckingham Palace, the White House and many other eminent places.

Then came G-strings. Last fall, some lace makers trying to earn money spun a racy twist to the art, deciding that underwear would sell better than doilies. Since, the town of 3,000 has been in an uproar, neighbor pitted against neighbor over lace thongs.

“Lace making has always been a way for people to earn money here,” says the 56-year-old mayor of the village, “But since the strings started, the community has been divided: about money, about morality, about tradition.”

Some traditional lace makers accuse the renegade lace makers of greed. Others say the thongs defile tradition, are indecent and promote sex. “Our lace graces Polish altars, the office of our president and that of the holy pope in Rome,” says the president of a local craft guild of lace makers who has been working with lace for six decades. “And suddenly, our lace is turning up – I don’t dare say where. How did the lace makers of Koniakow come to this?”

“Times are tough,” say their adversaries in the conflict, “handkerchiefs and tablecloths don’t sell well.”

Lace making in Koniakow began in the 19th century when young women began creating caps of white lace to don after their weddings. Soon after, say lace makers, women in the town began to weave tablecloths, altar ornaments, clergy robe collars and other ornaments that adorn Polish religious and family occasions, as a way to supplement their income. Like heirlooms, patterns and lace needles passed through generations.

During communist times, business was good. The community was supported by the state in official craft guilds and subsidized as a nationally recognized art. Orders poured in from state-run stores, prominent officials wanting to use them to present as official gifts and clergy who used the lace in ceremonies and on their clothing.

Things changed when communism collapsed in the late 1980s. The government subsidies stopped and state-store orders dried up. Borders opened to influence and products from the West. People became poorer as they lost state jobs in the former planned-economy.

The scanty underwear some lace makers already were quietly making for themselves started stirring local debate in June 2004. The suddent shift from religious ornaments to sexy lingerie was noted by major news sources worldwide. Magazines as reputable as The Wall Street Journal, The Chicago Tribune and the New York Times covered the topic and around that time the thongs have began being available online. Each pair can be made to a customer’s specifications of color and design. Although the lingerie is definitely feminine, it stirs interest among men as well, being unique and sophisticated romantic gift ideas.

About the Author:
Maciej Szleminski, Owner of http://SexyLaceLingerie.com, the major online distributor of sexy lingerie made from Koniakow lace. Article Source: www.iSnare.com

Sexy lingerie is a Valentine’s Day gift that pleases both of you. What makes lingerie such a sought after and much-given Valentine’s Day gift – more treasured than chocolates, flowers, stuffed animals and even jewelry? Lingerie says, “I love you and I want you.” It says, “You are beautiful and deserve to wear beautiful things. I think you are desireable.”

Sexy clothing is not THE only Valentines Day gift you should give her. If your lover is a chocolate fiend then you better get her some fancy chocolates too – and flowers are never a waster, but opt for two or three smaller boquets around the room instead of one big overbearing grouping. Choose different types of flowers – daisies, wild flowers, carnations – with maybe one rose tied with a ribbon. The rose will be romantic and the hardier flowers will last longer. Think about adding a slim book of erotic stories, some massage oil, adult toys or a special piece of jewelry with an encrypted romantic inscription.

Take the time to write a note to tell her or him exactly what it is about your relationship that turns you on. Don’t be afraid to get a little naughty – it will be remembered for many years to come.

From a practical standpoint, it can be hard for guys to know what kind of lingerie to choose or what size to buy. If you make a purchase at a lingerie store the clerks can often help by showing you what is popular or suggesting lines in your price range. They may even have size guides to help, but try to sneak into your gal’s dresser beforehand and check out the size on something similar to what you want to buy.

A short internet search for “Lingerie Shopping Tips” can also give you many pointers and ideas. If all else fails, a gift certificate for a shopping trip date to Victoria Secret can help you make your own decision for her birthday – or anniversary – or Christmas. You get the idea.

Many lingerie stores on the web have people qualified to help too. Try using the customer service or “contact us” buttons on a lingerie website. Usually an honest description of your gal with size ranges or measurements can help the sales person narrow down the selection for you. Most people in the lingerie business are very accustomed to helping men and women pick just the right sexy lingerie outfit from the hundreds of thousands available.

Whatever you decide to do, make it personal. Take time to think about your girl or guy and what romantic times you have had in the past or have discussed as fantasies. You do not have to spend a lot of money to make the day unforgettable. The thought that you put into doing something unique and loving is much more important than the price tag.

About The Author

Copyright 2006 Katie Rose Intimates Sexy Costumes and Lingerie

Katie Rose is the owner of Katie Rose Intimates Sexy Costumes and Lingerie at A fine lingerie shop featuring romantic Valentine’s Day gifts, fantasy clothing, leather and lace and intimate apparel in sexy, erotic, romantic and unique styles – with special attention for the plus size woman and Katie Rose Nights Adult Toy Store featuring toys, novelties, videos and books.

She also owns Katie Rose Kids An online boutique for clothing, toys and unique gifts for preemies, infants, toddlers, preschoolers and moms too. We have baby shower gifts as well as bath accessories, baby slings, books, decor, educational toys and personalized clothes, blankets and keepsake gifts. Perfect for birthday, Christmas, Easter, Valentines or just because.

katieroseintimates.com

kelli@katieroseintimates.com

Having spent your hard earned money on your beautiful lingerie, then the last thing you want to do is see it ruined after the first wash. Unlike other clothing lingerie is very different when it comes to washing.

Babydoll’s and Chemises cannot be treated the same way as Jeans and Shirts and just be thrown into the washing machine on a normal cycle and left. The result would be a trip to your nearest lingerie store to replace the item.

Women’s Lingerie will not last for ever but by following some simple guidelines your Camisoles and Teddies will last longer and keep their shape.

Lingerie today comes in fabrics and materials that make caring for the item easier than in days gone by. Most of the underwear sold today will come with manufacturers tags recommending how to care for your Satin Babydoll or your Lace Bustier. These recommendations should be followed if the lingerie is to last.

The tags will separate your lingerie into different washes, dry clean only, hand wash and machine wash. Make sure you always read the label as to the type of wash as mistakes can be very costly. So let’s look at the different types of cleaning.

Dry clean only

This is probably the easiest option as the garment can only be cleaned at a specialist shop. This could cause a problem as lingerie is a very private item and not everybody would be happy to take their Teddy or garter Set into a shop to be cleaned. There are products available that can be used at home and imitate the dry cleaning process for those not willing to use a dry cleaning shop.

Machine Wash

The modern washing machine is a time saving invention but it can cause major damage to your delicate underwear if the instructions are not followed.
Always wash your lingerie in cold water and use a detergent specially recommend for delicates never use bleach. Never wash dark and light colors together. Finally combine this with the delicate cycle on your washing machine and your lingerie should have no problems with repeated washes.

However as I have mentioned before Babydolls, Chemises, Camisoles and Bustiers can be delicate items with lace trims, ribbons, hooks and eyes that need to be cared for. Just putting these items into a washing machine even if you follow the instructions above could result in damage. To avoid this put your lingerie into a lingerie bag for extra protection (this is a mesh bag that allows soap and water in, but stops your lingerie being stretched, and can be purchased from most department stores). Only put one item per bag as this will stop the lingerie becoming entangled. Also always make sure all the hooks and eyes and buttons are fastened, and that zippers are closed and ribbons and drawstrings are tied.

Hand Wash

Hand washing is the alternative to the machine wash. Again the principle is the same, always wash in cold water and use a delicates detergent. Soak the lingerie in a bowl filled with cold water and detergent for about 30 minutes then drain and refill the bowl with clean water and no detergent, leave for another 30 minutes then drain the water. This should be sufficient for most washes; however for stains or odours this process can be repeated. Never wring out your lingerie as this could effect the shape.

Drying

Again due to the fabrics used in your lingerie it is always best to hang dry or flat dry your garments. Dryers can cause un-repairable damage to your silk Chemise or satin Babydoll. If you have to use a dryer then leave the lingerie in the lingerie bag and set the dryer at its lowest possible setting. You will find that sheer fabrics such as mesh or Chiffon require no heat to dry.

So by taking a little care and reading the tags on your lingerie, your Babydolls, Chemises, Teddies, Camisoles and Bustiers should look as good as new wash after wash.

Pure Unadalterated flattery

Not every woman feels comfortable with exposing her cheeks in a sexy thong. Put some deep thought into what parts of her body she feels most comfortable with and choose lingerie to accentuate those aspects of her figure.

A few tips:

• Show off nice legs in something short like a baby doll or short chemise.
• Push up great cleavage with a halter or bustier style.
• Display sexy toned arms with a camisole.

Have fun

Get her in touch with her inner child by choosing fun prints like cherries or clouds. Or appeal to her wilder side: animal prints, lace or bold colors like red are perfect.

Lingerie Colors

Black, red and white (or off-white) look good on almost everyone.

Blondes look fabulous in pastels, and brunettes can carry off bolder colors like purple and emerald green. Redheads should favour greens, blues and earthy tones.

Soft touch

If you like touching the garment, she’ll like wearing it. Velvet, silk and satin have lots of tactile appeal. If you’re buying online, stick with fabrics that you already know what they feel like.

Get comfy

Casual, updated intimates come in styles like tank tops, bikinis and p.j.s. Look for cotton, flannel or other naturally cozy fabrics.

Sizes

The best way to find her correct size is to ask.

Alternatives: you can snoop around the lingerie drawer to find the sizes of stuff she already owns. Or you can guess (tricky territory and prone to disaster).

Presentation

Don’t forget to gift wrap the lingerie (or have it professionally wrapped) with stylish paper and a lots of tissue paper. You can get creative and make bags or baskets with related items, like a book of love poetry, a bottle of champagne or great-smelling body products and candles wo set the atmosphere.

Key Lingerie styles

• Chemise – A straight gown that skims the body.
• Negligee – A loose, usually sheer, gown.Peignoir set – Negligee that includes a matching sheer robe.
• Babydoll – A short gown that fits around the bust, flares toward hemline.
• Pajamas – Pants and top, originally styled after men’s p.j.s.
• Bustier – A usually strapless elongated bra that provides extra lift to the breasts.
• Camisole – A sleeveless top that can be paired with matching undies or worn under a jacket for work.
• Teddy – A one-piece style, similar to a bodysuit.

First of all, let’s define the meaning of the word exotic. Exotic means; intriguingly unusual, different, excitingly strange, or from another part of the world.

To shorten that phrase up exotic means different, unique or unusual to what you are accustomed to. So if you are searching for exotic lingerie then you are searching for lingerie in which is not normal to you.

The desire for exotic lingerie, shows that you are adventurous and would like to act out the fantasy of “being excitingly strange, or from another part of the world.”

And you are thinking to yourself that you need some kind of wild lingerie to fulfill that fantasy. I am here to tell you that whips and chains, are not the only way to go. Just remember this important fact exotic means different and unusual for you.

Here let me give you some examples.

If you are a biker chick and wear leather vests and chaps all the time, then the whips and chains would not be considered unique or different. What would be exotic lingerie for you, would be a cute little pink or white teddy or babydoll with little ruffle but panties.

If you never wear dresses then something like a chemise or sexy club wear dress could be exotic lingerie for you.

If you are the lady whom wears dresses and is usually very feminine, maybe whips and chains will give the shock and awe you are looking for.

Costumes are also a good source of exotic lingerie, with tons of styles and fantasies to choose from.

The whole purpose of wanting exotic lingerie is to feel different than normal, and to shock and excite our partners. And there is something about an abrupt style change, which can boost your spirits and give you that all powerful feeling of confidence saying “I can be and do anything I want”.

Men get excited about the unusual and new lingerie choices; it keeps them hanging on the edge of their seat wandering what’s next.

So when you are shopping for exotic lingerie, just remember it doesn’t have to be totally wild and crazy to get his attention. Just pick something different than, what you would usually go for, and have fun acting out your fantasies.

About the Author:
By Sherri Myers http://www.ladystrange.com

Looking to buy your significant other lingerie as a gift? You’re a brave man, daring to go where most men’s knees shake and palms sweat in pure anxiety. Shopping for lingerie doesn’t have to be too frightening. For starters, forget having to walk into an all-too-feminine lingerie store in the mall where it feels like all eyes are on you. Try shopping online and you’ll find the experience to be much less traumatizing. Still, lingerie is a tricky gift, and there are some very useful tips to shopping for lingerie that will help you find the perfect selection for her. Trust me, if you find the right lingerie gift for the woman in your life. . . well, I don’t have to tell you just how rewarding that can be.

First things first: you have to get an idea of what size she is. If you’re living with your partner, this might be a little easier for you. A little investigating in the top drawer of her dresser can produce a good idea of her size. Don’t let all the numbers and letters confuse you. Bras are sized as a number followed by a letter. Remembering both of these is vital when shopping for lingerie, so write them down if you have to. For panties, chemises, and camisoles, you’ll be looking for numbers and letters as well. Those sized in numbers will be labeled as 5, 6, 7, 8, etc., and those sized in numbers will be labeled S, M, L, XL, etc. If you can’t search her dresser, try going on a shopping trip with her and see what size clothing she buys. If you’re truly desperate, find a woman you know that’s a similar size to your partner and ask her what you should be looking for. Just get a general idea of her size and this will put you way ahead of the game.

Almost as important as finding something in her size is finding something in her taste. You may think that lingerie is more a gift for you than for her, but you have to remember that when she feels comfortable and sexy, you’ll be the one who reaps the rewards. If she’s more flashy than frilly, go easy on the lacy selections. If she’s usually conservative, don’t try anything way too daring or you may not get the reaction you’re looking for. Take into account the clothing she usually wears and this may give you some ideas. Does she favor a particular color or style? Is her personality feminine, flirty, or downright sexy? Most likely you will be able to use this information when you shop online for lingerie.

If you’re still feeling a little confused about finding the right lingerie gift, stick to simple pieces. If you find that the sizing and selection of bra and panty sets is too complicated, try shopping for a simple chemise or babydoll. Women have an eye for detail, so a garment with a little lace or beading around the edges is sure to impress. Fabrics like silk and satin can make any woman feel sexy. Just remember that shopping for a lingerie gift online doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. Take your time and choose something that goes with her personality, and you’ll find the end result to be quite pleasurable.

About the Author:
John Barnes is the webmaster http://www.lingerieexpress.co.uk. Sexy Lingerie and Swimwear available online.
Article Source: www.iSnare.com