Brands

As someone who works day-in, day-out in the lingerie industry, I see a lot of underwear that looks very much the same. But part of the reason I stay so interested is that about once a year or so, I’ll stumble across an independent brand that’s just so utterly and refreshingly different. This year, it’s Elyse On Mars.

I want natural, biodegradable fabrics. I also want lace – so much lace! And unfortunately the two don’t really seem to be compatible. That’s why I was very intrigued when a newsletter landed in my inbox about a new, biodegradable lace lingerie range by Fleur of England.

For the first time ever, Marks & Spencer has decided to shake things up and expand their online lingerie department in a big way through the introduction of eight guest brands, each one chosen to bring something different to M&S shoppers.

In an industry where brand after brand are claiming to ‘reinvent’ the bra simply by removing the underwires, it’s refreshing to come across a lingerie company actually doing something different. Tensengral has merged antique and modern technology to create a whole new type of lingerie fabric: “performance lace”.

Handmade in Málaga, Spain by Bohemian Soul Lingerie, these pieces have some of the most fabric I’ve ever seen on a nightwear garment. Just metre upon metre of fluid lace, chiffon or cotton voile that drapes down to the ground and puddles around your feet.

The first time I saw the Sans Peur collection from Âme Nue Intimates, it took my breath away. The brand itself is named after the French phrase meaning “naked soul”, and each piece in this new collection does an excellent job of conveying both the power and vulnerability behind that idea.

Lovehoney’s Captivate line is an official collaboration with the Fifty Shades of Grey franchise. This season, they’ve added two great new ranges to it – Flocked Mesh, which features a classic black and gold colour palette with lavish chain and ring details, and Chiffon, for those after a softer and more romantic vibe.

I am once again bringing you some beaded lusciousness by Love & Swans. I’ve been obsessed with this brand from day one, and every time they release something new I find myself saying “I think this is my favourite yet”. And you know what? I really do think this latest bralette design is my favourite yet!

Allow me to introduce you to what I’m already positive will be one of my very favourite collections of the Autumn/Winter 2021 season: Regalia by Studio Pia. It’s inspired by “the decadence and lavish excess of royal court dressing” and, as ever, is centered around some incredible bespoke embroideries.

Ask me to name any one robe I’d love to wish into my wardrobe, and there’s a good chance I’d pick one by Apilat. This independent Ukranian brand is creating some of the most breathtakingly beautiful loungewear in the industry, and they only seem to get better with each passing season.