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.

Remember when I reviewed a Marina V bra back in March and said I’d try to do a round-up of similar pieces, because it was definitely becoming a small but noticeable lingerie trend? Yeah, I forgot. But lately I’m seeing this bra style pop up more and more, so I’ve finally put that list together!

There are many misconceptions about the fabrics and materials used in the making of lingerie. One is that lace is itchy and meant only for the bedroom. Another is the confusion between embroidery and lace. Let’s clarify some of these concepts.

Adaptive underwear provides ease and independence for people who find traditional underwear difficult to use. These designs commonly feature fastenings such as velcro, zippers or magnetic clasps in the front, so that the bra or brief can be put on or taken off without significant movement, bending, or standing.

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.

It is now possible to find relatively breathable-feeling synthetic fabrics. These are frequently more hydrophobic than actually breathable, but they can sometimes be comfortable and suitable for the hot weather. However, I’d argue that natural fibres are often the best initiative.

Period underwear is great because it’s so versatile. The brands in this article offer underwear that can replace up to 12 tampons, or lighter options that you can use as a backup for when your tampon or menstrual cup overflows. Plus, a growing number of brands now offer period swimwear and activewear.

Allow me to introduce you to my most-worn bra set of the past twelve months: the Clara by Panache. The way the sheer floral motifs are surrounded by more opaque fabric, sometimes in a different colour, gives the impression of delicate appliqué work which makes this bra look rather more expensive than it actually is!

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”.